What is that used for?
There are several objects used before, during, and after the consecration during the holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Here, we provide you the names of these objects, what they are used for, and why they are used, which might make you say, “I didn’t know that!”
The paten – The gold “plate” that holds the bread, which then becomes the Body of Christ upon the words of consecration. Its name comes from a Latin word meaning a broad, shallow dish.
The chalice – The gold vessel in the form of a formal cup which holds the wine which then becomes the Blood of Christ upon the words of consecration.
The ciborium – A vessel which holds many hosts and allows for the distribution of Holy Communion to the faithful.
The pyx – A small circular vessel that opens and closes and holds the Holy Eucharist. This is used by Priests, Deacons, and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion when traveling to distribute the Eucharist somewhere in the community. Its name comes from a Latin word meaning a box.
The purificator – A white cloth used for wiping the chalice.
The cruets – These glass vessels, commonly in the shape of small pitchers or vases, hold the wine and water and are used before the consecration.
The lavabo and pitcher – These are the pitcher and basin used to wash the priest’s hands before the consecration. In most cases, an altar server pours the water over the priest’s hands while the priest says to himself, “Lord, wash away my iniquity; cleanse me from my sin.” If there is no altar server, the priest does it himself.
The lavabo towel – This cloth is used to dry the priest’s hands after he washes them.
The pall – This is a small, stiff square, or rectangle made of cardboard, fabric, or other materials, often with a piece of stiffened cloth on top. It is used to cover the chalice during the celebration of the Eucharist to prevent any foreign objects or dust from coming into contact with the precious Blood.
The altar cloth – This cloth covers the altar and traditionally symbolizes the burial shroud of Jesus.
The corporal – This is a square, white cloth that is placed on the altar. On top of it is placed the chalice and paten. This is used to catch any particles of the Body and Blood of Christ that may accidently fall. Its name comes from the Latin word corpus, meaning body.
The altar candles – Mass must be celebrated with at least two candles. Typically, the candles are made of bee wax. Since ancient times, candles were used during the Mass to symbolize Christ as the “Light of the world.”
The thurible - A thurible is a sturdy metal container on the end of a chain in which burning coals and incense are placed, creating smoke and a pleasant fragrance. The priest, deacon, or altar server will swing the thurible during certain parts of the liturgies, such as before the reading of the Gospel or during the consecration. The smoke symbolizes the prayers of the faithful being taken up into heaven, purification, and blessing.
The Roman Missal – The book used by the priest at the altar which contains instructions and prayers for celebrating Mass. Its name comes from a Latin word meaning pertaining to the Mass.