An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church

Chalice

The cup for the wine that is consecrated and administered at the eucharist. The chalice normally has a footed base. It is appropriate for only one chalice to be on the altar during the Eucharistic Prayer, but additional chalices may be filled with consecrated wine as needed after the breaking of the bread. The chalice usually matches the paten, which is the plate or dish for the consecrated bread. Chalices are typically made of silver, or other precious or semi-precious metals, and may be decorated by jewels or engraved designs. Pottery chalices are also used. A chalice and paten may be presented as symbols of office at the vesting of a newly ordained priest in the ordination service.

Glossary definitions provided courtesy of Church Publishing Incorporated, New York, NY,(All Rights reserved) from “An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church, A User Friendly Reference for Episcopalians,” Don S. Armentrout and Robert Boak Slocum, editors.