The pyx is one of the smallest sacred vessels, but it serves one of the most important ministries: taking Communion to the sick and homebound. If your parish has an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion who visits the homebound, you need a pyx.
What Is a Pyx?
A pyx is a small, round container — typically about 1-2 inches in diameter — used to carry consecrated hosts to those who cannot attend Mass. It usually has a hinged lid and may be engraved with a cross or other religious symbol.
How Is the Pyx Used?
Here's the process:
- Before leaving church: The minister places the required number of consecrated hosts in the pyx.
- Transport: The pyx is carried in a dignified manner — typically in a small bag or pouch worn around the neck or kept in a secure pocket.
- At the home: The minister opens the pyx, reverently distributes Communion, and returns any remaining hosts to the church.
- After the visit: The pyx is cleaned and stored in the sacristy.
Types of Pyxes
| Type | Capacity | Material | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard pyx | 1-3 hosts | Brass, gold-plated | $20-$40 |
| Large pyx | 5-10 hosts | Brass or silver-plated | $30-$60 |
| Decorative pyx | 1-3 hosts | Engraved brass or silver | $40-$80 |
| Travel pyx | 1-2 hosts | Lightweight metal | $15-$30 |
How to Choose a Pyx
For most parishes, I recommend a standard gold-plated brass pyx that holds 2-3 hosts. It's affordable, durable, and dignified. If your ministers visit multiple people in one trip, consider a larger pyx.
The Pyx in Travel Mass Kits and Sick Call Sets
The pyx rarely travels alone. In a priest's kit it is packed together with the corporal, a stole, a small cross, and often a container of the oil of the sick - the set traditionally called a sick call set. Compact sets carry exactly these items; fuller travel Mass kits add a chalice, paten, cruets, and linens so that Mass itself can be celebrated away from a parish. Our travel Mass kits and sick call sets from $137 keep the pyx protected in a lockable case, and our burses for the sick call paten and burses for the ailing are made for daily Communion rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can carry a pyx?
A: An instituted acolyte or an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion who has been properly trained and commissioned by the pastor.
Q: How do you clean a pyx?
A: Wipe the interior with a purificator after each use. Wash with warm soapy water periodically. Dry thoroughly and store in a clean, dry place.
Q: Where does the pyx belong when it is not in use?
A: Between visits the pyx is cleaned, dried, and stored in the sacristy - never left loose in a pocket or a car. In a travel Mass kit or sick call set it has its own fitted slot or pouch inside the case.
Q: Can you carry the pyx in a sick call set?
A: Yes - that is exactly how the set is designed: the pyx travels in its case together with the corporal, stole, and oils, so the minister arrives with everything needed for the visit.
Conclusion
The pyx is a small vessel with a big mission — bringing Christ to those who can't come to church. Every parish should have at least one, and every minister should know how to use it properly.
If you are assembling a portable set for a priest, see our travel Mass kits and portable liturgy sets.
Browse our collection of pyxes — standard, large, and decorative options for every parish.
See our collection of embroidered burses for the sick call.
