When we come to receive Holy Communion the priest or minister of Holy Communion takes the host from a vessel, this vessel is called a Ciborium, not a chalice. It is not just a handy means of distributing Holy Communion it is rich in meaning and symbolism.

A ciborium is a covered container used to hold the consecrated hosts (the Eucharistic bread) for distribution and reservation in the tabernacle. It looks similar to a chalice (cup), but it has a lid.

It is usually (should be) made of precious materials (gold, silver, or gilded metal) to honour the sacred species it holds. In the book of Exodus GOD gave very clear and detailed instructions of how the Ark of the Covenant, as well all the accessories, was to be built and what materials were to be used. In Exodus 24:29 we read that; ‘…dishes, cups, jars and bowls…’ are to be made for the table of the bread of the Presence and that these are to be made ‘…of pure gold…’. The Tabernacle contained some of the Manna by which GOD fed the Israelites in the dessert (Ex.16:33 and Heb. 9:4). The care and reverence shown to the bread of presence and the Manna – the place of honour it was given, the precious metals that were used, prefigures the care and reverence that is due to the Blessed Sacrament. According to the General Instruction on the Roman Missal (the rule book on how Mass is to be celebrated) “Sacred vessels should be made from precious metal. If they are made from metal that rusts or from a metal less precious than gold, they should generally be gilded on the inside.” (GIRM #328)

The Ciborium, as we know it, began its development after the initial persecution of the Church had ceased. It was determined that a dignified and sacred vessel, worthy of the Body of Christ, was required for containing the Blessed Sacrament. Initially, these vessels were often made of simple wood or metal, however, over time as our understanding and theology of the Eucharist deepened, richer vessels emerged. In the Middle Ages the ciborium evolved into its recognizable form: a cup-shaped vessel with a lid. Churches valued precious metals to show the Eucharist’s sacredness. Ornate ciboria, often engraved with Christian symbols were produced. While there has been a return to more simple designs in the post Vatican II era, Ciboria are still required.

The Symbolism of the Ciborium cannot be overlooked. It represents the Sacredness of that which, or rather Who, it contains. The ciborium is more than a container: it is a sign of the Church’s reverence for the true Body of Christ.

From biblical roots in the sacred bread of the Presence to elaborate medieval designs, the ciborium embodies centuries of Christian devotion. Its purpose is deeply theological: to safeguard and honour the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.

When you see a ciborium in use at Mass or resting in the tabernacle, you are witnessing a sacred tradition that connects our Judaic roots, the Last Supper, the early Church, and today’s liturgy in one unbroken act of reverence, worship and love.

(Adapted from and original article by an unknown source)

Catechetical Corner appears in our parish newsletter each week. It is not intended to be the last word on anything, neither it is intended to be an academic, theological treatment of the subject – I am neither an academic nor a theologian. It is merely intended to cause a moment of pause and reflection. Please feel free to share if you find any merit without accreditation please.