Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Since the inception of the Eucharist at the Last Supper, when Jesus took bread and wine, turning it into His Body and Blood saying, “Do this in remembrance of me,” (Lk 22:19), the Church has used chalices and patens for the Eucharistic liturgy.

As is customary, deacons about to be ordained to the priesthood have their chalices blessed on the eve of their ordination. Most often, the chalice and paten blessed are gifts.

“It’s a tradition in the Catholic church that the chalice and paten a priest receives for his first Mass is one he uses his whole life,” explained newly ordained Father Phillip Mills. “He uses it to remember those who have been with him throughout his journey and for those who have given him his chalice and paten – for him to continue to pray for them.”

Father Mills' chalice is a gift from his home parish, Immaculate Heart of Mary in Candler. At its base are depictions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, St. Ann teaching her daughter, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and St. Joseph. On the cup is the symbol of the Holy Trinity, the Most Sacred Heart, and the Eucharist.

“It is a reminder to always be learning, to be humble like St. Joseph and to always follow the Sacred Heart,” Father Mills said. “One of the reasons I love this chalice is because the Sacred Heart lines up with the symbol of the Trinity so I can always remember when I’m celebrating Mass that we are in the heart of Jesus lifting up our prayers to The Father.”

Father Michael Batista’s chalice is a gift from his parents Pedro and Inez, his Aunt Teresa Dobrow, and cousin Keith Dobrow – all present at his ordination.

“I wanted something that represented The Passion of Jesus. This chalice clearly does,” Father Batista said.

On its cup are several images hewn in silver showing Jesus having thorns placed on His head, being nailed to The Cross, and pierced with a lance after His death. At its base each angel bears a sign of The Passion: one holds The Lance with which He was pierced; another holds INRI; another holds The Crown Of Thorns; another The Nails.

Also found at its base are depictions of The Dove (Holy Spirit), Mary (Mother Of God), Joseph (Patron Saint) & Christ (Savior).

By Glenda Meekins

Florida Catholic Staff

May 30 2024