What Is a Black Chalice Pall?
A black chalice pall is a stiffened square of fabric placed on top of the chalice during Mass, finished in black for Requiem Masses and funerals. It performs the same service as every chalice pall — covering the cup and protecting the Precious Blood from dust and insects — while carrying the sober tone proper to Masses for the Dead.
When Is Black Used in the Catholic Church?
Black belongs to the Masses for the Dead. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (no. 346) provides that violet is used in Advent and Lent and may be worn at Masses for the Dead, and that in the United States white or black may also be used at funerals and other Offices and Masses for the Dead. Black is the traditional Requiem color — and in the older Roman Missal it was also worn on Good Friday. In many parishes black vestments and black chalice linens return each year on All Souls' Day, November 2.
Our Black Chalice Palls
The black collection counts 6 embroidered designs in 20 × 20 cm (7.9 in), at $20 each. Five designs carry the IHS monogram — one of them combined with ears of wheat, one finished with a decorative ornament — and one carries the Jerusalem Cross. All are stiffened and ready for use; see the full chalice pall collection for every color, and pair black with our violet and white palls for funeral ministry.
Black Palls and the Chalice Linens
For a Requiem, the black pall is used with the corporal, the purificator and the chalice veil — available together in a coordinated chalice linen set for parishes that serve many funerals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Black Still Used in the Catholic Church?
Yes. In the United States, black (like white) may be used at funerals and Masses for the Dead in addition to violet. Black remains the traditional Requiem color.
When May a Black Chalice Pall Be Used?
At Requiem Masses, funerals and Masses for the Dead where black vestments are used, and on All Souls' Day. In the older Roman Missal black was also worn on Good Friday.
What Symbols Are Embroidered on Black Chalice Palls?
Five designs carry the IHS monogram (one with ears of wheat, one with a decorative ornament) and one carries the Jerusalem Cross.
Related reading: What Is a Chalice Pall? Meaning, Sizes, and Use at Mass.
