The word pall is used for two different objects in Christian liturgy: the small chalice pall that covers the chalice at Mass, and the large funeral pall that covers a casket or coffin. They share a name and a symbolic language, but they differ in size, material and use. This guide explains both and helps you choose the right one.
What is a chalice pall?
A chalice pall is a square, stiffened cloth placed over the chalice during the celebration of the Eucharist. It protects the Precious Blood from dust, insects and other impurities and is one of the chalice linens, together with the corporal, purificator and chalice veil. The pall is usually white and often embroidered with a cross, the IHS monogram or another Eucharistic symbol.
In our range, most chalice palls are made of 100% cotton or cotton jacquard, in 18 x 18 cm (7.1 in) and 20 x 20 cm (7.9 in). Many designs have a stiffening panel or a removable insert that keeps the square flat on the chalice. Browse our chalice palls.
What is a funeral pall?
A funeral pall is a large cloth that covers a casket or coffin during the funeral rites. It is also called a mortcloth or casket pall. The funeral pall symbolizes the white garment given at baptism and the equality of all the baptized before God; it is usually white, but black and violet palls also exist in some traditions. It is much larger than a chalice pall and is carried over the coffin, not placed on the altar.
Key differences
- Purpose: the chalice pall covers the chalice at Mass; the funeral pall covers a casket or coffin at a funeral.
- Size: a chalice pall is a small square, typically 18–20 cm; a funeral pall is a large cloth that covers the whole casket.
- Material: chalice palls are usually cotton, linen or jacquard with a stiff insert; funeral palls are usually made of a heavier fabric and may be decorated with a cross.
- Use: the chalice pall belongs to the altar linens; the funeral pall belongs to the funeral rites.
- Care: follow the care label of the individual piece; chalice palls are smaller and easier to wash, while large funeral palls are usually cleaned less often.
Why do both use the word "pall"?
The word comes from the Latin pallium, meaning a cloak or covering. Both objects are cloths that cover something sacred or significant: the chalice in the Eucharist and the casket in the funeral liturgy. The shared name reflects the shared function of covering and reverence, not a shared size or construction.
Which one do you need?
If you are preparing for Mass, you need a chalice pall. If you are preparing for a funeral, you need a funeral pall. A chalice pall is a small altar linen; a funeral pall is a large liturgical textile. They are not interchangeable. If you are buying for a parish, check the size of the chalice and the local funeral customs before ordering.
Chalice palls in our range
Our chalice palls are handmade in Poland in cotton and jacquard, with embroidered IHS, cross, Lamb of God, wheat and grapes, Alpha and Omega and Marian motifs. They are available in white, ecru, gold, red, green, purple, black and pink, in 18 x 18 cm and 20 x 20 cm. Selected designs can be made in other liturgical colours on request. Shop chalice palls or see the full chalice linen sets.
Care and storage
Follow the care label of the individual piece. Cotton chalice palls can generally be washed in mild detergent and ironed while slightly damp; remove the insert before washing and iron on the reverse. Funeral palls are usually larger and heavier; follow the label or the advice of the funeral director or sacristy. Store both flat or rolled, away from humidity.
FAQs
Is a funeral pall the same as a chalice pall?
No. A chalice pall is a small square cloth that covers the chalice at Mass. A funeral pall is a large cloth that covers a casket or coffin at a funeral. They have different sizes, materials and uses.
What size is a chalice pall?
Our chalice palls come in 18 x 18 cm (7.1 in) and 20 x 20 cm (7.9 in). Measure the outside rim of your chalice and choose a size that covers the opening with a little overlap.
What is a chalice pall made of?
Most of our palls are 100% cotton or cotton jacquard. Linen is the traditional material; cotton is softer, absorbent and easier to care for. The product page states the material for each design.
Can a chalice pall be used at a funeral?
No. A chalice pall is sized for the chalice, not for a casket. A funeral pall is a separate, much larger textile.
Where can I buy a chalice pall?
See our chalice pall collection or browse the full chalice linen sets. For the other altar linens, read our altar linens guide.
