Orthodox Forge

The Church: Kingdom of God

What is the paten?

Q641 · The Holy Utensils

The Coptic Ϯ ⲇⲓⲥⲕⲟⲥ ( ti-diskos ) or δισχος ( diskos ) in Greek is a small round tray, without a stand and having no engravings. It is usually made of silver or gold, resembling the Lord’s manger or His tomb. Some people believe that the Lord did not use a paten, but rather blessed the bread on His hands. However, since the liturgy takes a long time, the Church preferred to use a paten.