Chalice comes from the Latin word 'calix,' meaning cup. The chalice is also called a sacred vessel and is held in special honor [GIRM#327] by the worshiping community. The cup has the Blood of Christ when the wine is consecrated at Mass. As a sign of the importance of these sacred vessels, all chalices used at a Eucharistic celebration are to be made of precious metals.Patens, or plates, are the hosts for communion. Like the chalice, the paten is made of precious metals. It is also called a sacred vessel, and once the priest says the words of consecration at Mass, it will hold the Body of Christ.