Patens

A paten is a type of small plate or dish that is used to hold Eucharistic bread which is to be consecrated. It is usually made of silver or gold and may sometimes be referred to as a diskos. Patens are generally used during the service itself, with reserved sacrament being stored in a ciborium located inside the tabernacle. The paten is often made with a small depression that allows it to rest securely on the top of the chalice during the service.

According to the instructions of the Roman Missal, the paten should be made of a precious metal. If they are made from an inferior metal that is less precious than gold, perhaps a variety that rusts, they should be gilded on the inside. Non-gold patens should be made from another type of solid material that is considered at least precious or noble in the region it is being used.

Matthew F. Sheehan carries many styles of patens to choose from including popular two tone styles. Select styles of patens may also be engraved with a personal message for a small additional charge. Engraved patens make excellent gifts or keepsakes and may be presented to a church or clergyman as a thank you for years of faithful service or help through a particularly tough time.