The pyx have a long history in the Christian liturgy, dating back to the period of the Roman catacombs. Initially, they were used to bring the consecrated host to the sick unable to attend mass. Over time, they have become an integral part of the celebration of Catholic Mass.
The meaning of pyx is closely linked to their liturgical use. During the consecration, the priest takes the host and breaks it into two parts, one of which is placed in the pyx. This gesture symbolizes the breaking of Christ's body and his real presence in the consecrated host.
The pyxes have been made of various materials throughout history, depending on the economic availability of the Christian communities. However, those precious ones such as in gold, silver or copper have always been considered the most suitable to contain the Eucharistic bread.
Today, they are carefully preserved in the sacristies along with other liturgical furniture, remaining one of the most important symbols of Christ's presence in the celebration of Mass.
Materials and decorations: the variety of religious pyxes
The sacred pyxes are essential objects in the celebration of Mass, are made of materials of great value such as gold, silver and copper. The choice of alloy and decoration of pyxes often depends on the tradition and preferences of the church in which it is used. For example, a church that follows a Baroque style may prefer an object decorated with gilded carvings, while a more modern church may opt for a simpler and more minimalist design.
Some pyxes are also decorated with sacred motifs such as crosses, symbols of the evangelists or scenes from the life of Christ. The variety of materials and decorations available is a testimony to the importance that these cups have in the Christian liturgy and their ability to represent, through art and craftsmanship, the presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
Sacristy: the place of conservation of pyxes and liturgical supplies
The sacristies represent one of the most important spaces of the churches, as they are the places where the sacred supplies used during the celebration of Holy Mass are kept. In addition to the pyxes, in the liturgical environments are preserved other supplies such as liturgical vestments, chalices, thuribles, candlesticks and processional crosses, all made of precious materials such as gold, silver or copper.
