Sacred Vessels
Chalices
Chalices for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass: the sacred cup that holds the wine which becomes the Precious Blood of Christ.
About this collection
About Chalices
This collection gathers traditional chalices for the celebration of Mass. For the covered vessels that hold the Hosts, see our ciboria. Most come from European workshops, and some Baroque designs were made in Italy. You will find Gothic and Baroque styles, cups of sterling silver, pieces finished in 24k gold plate, and gold- and silver-plated brass, some with stone settings on the node and base. Sizes run from compact travel chalices of about 6 1/2 inches to altar chalices around 10 inches tall, and some are offered with a matching paten.
Choosing a chalice
Compare the height and cup diameter with the purificators and pall you already use, and check what the cup is made of: sterling silver or plated brass. If a paten or ciborium should match, ask before you order. A chalice is also a traditional gift for a priest at his ordination.
Most chalices are priced on request because availability changes. Call or request a quote with the item name, and we will confirm details and freight, which is billed separately. For other sacred vessels, see our monstrances and reliquaries.
Chalices
In the Sacred Liturgy
The chalice is the most sacred cup in the church. At Mass the priest pours wine and a little water into it, and at the consecration, through the words of Christ, the wine becomes His Precious Blood. Like the paten, the small plate that holds the Host, the chalice is set apart for this holy use alone, and it is blessed for use at Mass before it is first used.
Because it holds the Blood of Christ, a chalice is made of precious and durable materials. Traditionally the cup is of gold or silver, and when it is made of silver or another metal, the inside of the cup is gilded. A chalice has three parts: the cup; the stem, with a knob called the node that helps the priest hold it securely; and the base, or foot.
Many chalices are richly decorated with engraving, enamel, or figures of saints and symbols such as wheat, grapes and the Lamb of God. Each one is an offering of beauty for the altar.
The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ?
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