Liturgical Objects: the Complete Guide

When you attend Holy Mass, have you ever wondered why each liturgical object, from the chalice on the altar to the sacred cloths, has such a specific form and use?

Understanding the deep meaning of liturgical objects transforms the way we experience Mass. Each one, in its form and function, points us to a supernatural reality. Their silent presence speaks of Mystery and helps us prepare interiorly to receive Christ with greater faith and reverence.

Discover the use of each liturgical object and its theological and spiritual significance.

What are Liturgical Objects?

Liturgical objects are all the material items used in the celebration of the sacraments, especially Holy Mass. They are created, blessed, and set apart exclusively for divine worship. Their function is not merely practical: each possesses symbolic and spiritual value that helps express the mystery of faith.

At Mass, these objects are not simple utensils; they are visible signs of an invisible reality. The chalice, paten, corporal, or monstrance, for example, are directly connected to the Eucharist and are therefore treated with special reverence.

Through them, the Church teaches us that material things can be sanctified when placed in God’s service. The noble materials, beautiful forms, and rules governing their use are not meant to impress but to manifest the dignity of the mystery they contain and to beautify the liturgy, which is “the work of God par excellence.”

Each liturgical object, through its function and symbolism, helps us to live the Mass more deeply. They remind us that we are not before an ordinary ceremony, but before the greatest and holiest act on earth: the Sacrifice of Christ made truly present in the Eucharist.

Which are the Liturgical Objects?

Sacred Vessels and Altar Linens

1. Chalice

The chalice is a sacred cup, normally made of gold or silver, or at least gold-plated inside. It is specifically designed to hold the consecrated wine, which becomes the Precious Blood of Christ during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Its design usually includes an ornate base, a stem (node) for easy handling, and a cup made of noble material.

This liturgical object primarily symbolizes the Precious Blood of Christ, representing the New and Eternal Covenant sealed with His Blood. It is intimately connected to the sacrifice on Calvary and the Last Supper. It serves as a tangible reminder of Christ’s self-giving for the salvation of humanity. It is often called the “chalice of salvation” because its spiritual drink grants eternal life.

The chalice must be consecrated by a bishop before its first use, setting it apart for sacred purposes exclusively.

During the Offertory, it is prepared on the corporal, covered by the pall and the chalice veil. It holds the wine that, through the words of consecration, is transubstantiated into the Blood of Christ. After Communion, the priest carefully purifies the chalice at the altar, consuming any remaining Precious Blood.

2. Paten

The paten is a small, round plate, made of the same precious material as the chalice, used to hold the Sacred Host before and after the Consecration. Its shape allows it to fit perfectly over the mouth of the chalice.

The paten represents the humanity of Christ. It also symbolizes the purity and care with which the Body of the Lord is treated. Its round shape recalls eternity and divine perfection.

During the preparation of the altar, the paten is placed over the chalice with the pall on top. After the consecration, it is used to hold the Host, and it must be purified with the chalice at the end of communion.

3. Ciborium

The ciborium is a covered container, similar in shape to the chalice but wider, with a domed or crowned lid. It is made of precious metal, and its interior should be gilded. It is used to reserve and distribute consecrated Hosts.

The ciborium represents the tabernacle of Mary’s heart, who carried the Incarnate Word within herself. It also shows the care and reverence with which the Church protects and distributes the Most Holy Sacrament.

The ciborium should always remain covered with its lid, especially when containing consecrated Hosts. It is purified like the chalice and must be treated with the same reverence. The ciborium, chalice, and paten are the most important liturgical objects due to their direct contact with the Eucharist.

4. Cruets

The cruets are a pair of small containers, generally made of glass, crystal, or sometimes precious metals. One is designated for wine and the other for water . They are usually marked with the letters “V” (Vinum) and “A” (Aqua) or with distinctive images (such as a vine for wine and a drop of water for water) to clearly distinguish their contents.

These liturgical objects are presented to the priest at the Offertory of the Mass.

5. Purificator

The purificator is a small white, rectangular linen cloth that is used during Mass to clean the chalice, paten, and ciborium. It usually has a cross embroidered in the center and is folded into three parts lengthwise.

It symbolizes the purity of the soul and the reverence with which liturgical objects that have contained the Blood of Christ must be treated. It also represents the inner cleansing that the Christian seeks when approaching the Eucharist.

6. Pall

The pall is a small rigid or semi-rigid square, made of linen or white cloth, which is placed over the chalice during Mass. Generally, it is reinforced with cardboard inside and covered with a decorative or embroidered fabric.

The pall symbolizes the veil of purity that protects the Body and Blood of Christ.

The pall is placed over the chalice after the preparation of the offerings and is removed before the consecration. It is replaced after communion, when the chalice is covered again.

7. Corporal

The corporal is a square cloth of white linen. It is spread over the altar during Mass to place the chalice, paten, and ciborium on it (if used). When not in use, it is carefully folded into nine squares and stored inside the corporal pouch.

The corporal symbolizes the shroud in which the body of Christ was wrapped after the crucifixion or the tablecloth of the Last Supper. It marks the sacred space where the transubstantiation takes place. It prevents any particle of the Body or Blood of Christ from falling on the altar.

8. Chalice Veil

The chalice veil is a large, square cloth, usually made of the same material and liturgical color as the priest’s chasuble. It is used to cover the chalice and paten, along with the purificator and pall, before and after Mass, and during the parts of the Mass when the chalice is not in use.

The veil symbolizes the sacredness and concealment of the mysteries contained in the sacred vessels.

9. Burse

The burse is a square, rigid, and flat case, generally made of the same material and liturgical color as the chalice veil and the chasuble. It is designed to store the folded corporal when it is not in use.

It’s ensures the cleanliness and integrity of the corporal, due to its importance.

Altar Furnishings

1. Altar Cloths

The altar cloths are liturgical objects of white linen that are placed on the altar. For Mass, at least three cloths are required: two smaller ones and one larger one that reaches the floor at the ends. They are generally made of pure white linen.

The cloths symbolize the purity and dignity of the altar, representing the shroud in which the body of Christ was wrapped, or the cloth of the table of the Last Supper. In addition, they protect the altar and absorb possible spills of the consecrated species.

2. Candlesticks and Candles

The candlesticks are supports, generally metallic, that hold the candles. The candles, made of beeswax (at least 51% for liturgical candles), are placed on the altar during Mass. At least two candles are required for the weekly Mass, four or six for the Sunday or solemn Mass, and seven for the pontifical Mass.

The candles symbolize Christ as the Light of the World, dispelling darkness and illuminating the path to salvation. Their flame signifies the prayer that ascends to God and the presence of divine grace. The beeswax symbolizes the pure flesh of Christ, born of a virgin.

3. Crucifix

The crucifix is a cross with the corpus (body of Christ) fixed upon it. It is placed prominently on the altar or suspended above it, being the central image during the celebration of the Mass.

The crucifix is the most powerful symbol of Christ’s sacrifice, redemption, and victory over sin and death. Its presence on the altar during Mass explicitly reminds the faithful that the Mass is the unbloody renewal of the sacrifice of Calvary.

• You may be interested in: Church Sacristan Handbook

Other Liturgical Objects

1. Thurible & Boat

The thurible is a metallic container, generally suspended by chains, used to burn incense. The boat is a small boat-shaped container with a small spoon, used to hold the grains of incense before placing them in the incensory.

The incense symbolizes the prayer that ascends to God, honor, purification, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The smoke that fills the sanctuary represents the divine presence and the prayers of the faithful that rise to heaven.

2. Aspergil & Bucket

The aspergil is a small perforated metallic sphere or a brush attached to a handle, used to sprinkle holy water. The holy water bucket (aspersorium) is a small container, generally metallic, to hold the holy water .

They recall the baptismal waters. These liturgical objects cleanse from venial sins and protect from evil.

3. Bells

These are small bells, often mounted on a handle or support, that an acolyte rings at specific moments during Mass.

The sound of the bells draws the attention of the faithful to the most sacred moments of the Mass, particularly the Consecration. They enhance the solemnity and awe, signaling the Real Presence of Christ on the altar.

4. Lavabo, Pitcher, and Manuterge

The pitcher is a small container that holds water. The lavabo is a small bowl or plate, over which the water falls.

During the Offertory, after having offered the bread and wine, the priest washes his fingers (especially the thumb and index finger) with which he will soon touch the Consecrated Host. An acolyte pours the water from the pitcher over his fingers, and the water falls into the bowl of the lavabo. Then, the priest dries his hands with the manuterge.

5. Sacred Oils

These liturgical objects are used for the administration of some sacraments, both inside and outside of Holy Mass. They are blessed by the bishop at the Chrism Mass, which is generally celebrated on Holy Thursday morning in each diocese. There are three types:

• The Sacred Chrism:

It is olive oil mixed with balsam (an aromatic resin). Its fragrance symbolizes the “fragrance of Christ” and the fullness of the grace of the Holy Spirit. It is used in Baptism, Confirmation, Priestly and Episcopal Ordination, Consecration of Churches and Altars and for the Blessing of Bells and Sacred Vessels.

It symbolizes the anointing of the Holy Spirit, the fullness of grace, strength, sanctification, and incorporation into Christ.

• The Oil of Catechumens:

It is pure olive oil. It is used in Baptism: Catechumens (those preparing for baptism) are anointed on the chest before immersion or pouring of water.

It symbolizes strength, purification, and preparation for the fight against evil before receiving the sacrament of Baptism. It is a sign of divine protection.

• The Oil of the Sick

It is pure olive oil. It is used in the Anointing of the Sick. It is the central material element of the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, with which the priest anoints the sick person on the forehead and hands (or on other parts of the body, as needed).

It symbolizes the relief of body and soul, comfort, strength to endure illness, forgiveness of sins, and preparation for the encounter with God.

Liturgical Books

1. Missal

The Roman Missal is the book that contains the prayers, rubrics, and texts that the priest uses to celebrate Mass. It also contains indications on the use and arrangement of liturgical objects.

2. Lectionary

The Lectionary is the book that contains the biblical readings proclaimed during the Liturgy of the Word at Mass.

3. Gospel Book

The Evangeliary is a sacred liturgical book that contains only the texts of the Gospels that are proclaimed during Holy Mass and other liturgical celebrations throughout the liturgical year.

It is a book of great dignity and beauty. It is usually large to be easily visible, and its binding is richly adorned, often with hard covers, covered with precious materials (such as silver, gold, or ivory), gemstone inlays, enamels, or beautiful illustrations. This highlights the importance of the Word of God.

It is used in the entrance procession and in the reading of the Gospel of solemn Masses.

• You may be interested in: The Fourth Cup: Unveiling the Mystery of the Last Supper and the Cross

To Reflect on Liturgical Objects

Liturgical objects demonstrate the solemnity of the mystery we celebrate in each Eucharist. They honor the majesty of God and help us to understand the mystery, despite the weakness of our senses.

As beings of body and soul, we need outward and visible signs to remind us of the invisible greatness of the divine mysteries. Liturgical objects are a clear reflection of this. The Church, in its wisdom, transfigures and spiritualizes material things to elevate us towards the invisible, the divine, and the eternal.

The Church instructs that liturgical objects be treated with respect, protected, and maintained with care. Their dignity comes not only from their practical function but from the divine Person to whom they are consecrated. Let us meditate on the profound symbolism and care with which the Church watches over all that comes into contact with the Eucharist. Let us prepare our souls to receive the Lord with the delicacy that He deserves.

Also, let us pray for our priests that the Holy Spirit may fill them with awe before the Blessed Sacrament, which becomes present through their hands, and that they may treat it with utmost love and reverence.