This shell comes from Autom, and is available both in the printed catalogue and online. The shell is 5″ wide and is made of porcelain. It is white with a gold-painted cross in the center. The cost is $3.99.

I’m not sure how many Anglicans use baptismal shells, but if the poor vicar needs one, this is a very economical shell of sufficient quality for the poor vicar and his small congregation. Yes, there are much nicer ones of gold or brass, but this one is suitable and will not in any way detract from the sacrament of Holy Baptism.

Poor Vicar’s Sacristy in a Box cost to date: $76.96

This set comes from Autom, and is available both in the printed catalogue and online. The chalice is 6″ high and holds 6 ounces of wine. The set is gold-plated and includes a felt storage bag. The cost is $49.95.

While the poor vicar and his congregation might desire a jewel-encrusted solid gold, or at least silver, chalice and paten set, this set is serviceable, simple but beautiful, and entirely useful. Despite its simplicity, it is becoming to the service of the altar.

One might be tempted to assume that, because of the glass vessels previously introduced to the Poor Vicar’s Sacristy in a Box, I would advocate a cheap glass available from the local dollar discount store for $1.00. In fact, this chalice and paten set is the highest priced item in the Poor Vicar’s Sacristy. Because of the holy nature of the blessed sacrament of Communion, I advocate care when selecting the Communion vessels. Any priest should be able to afford this simple set or one like it without sacrificing reverence for the holy sacrifice. When it comes to those vessels that hold the Body and the Blood of Christ, we must use instruments that are of good and comely quality, that show honor and respect for the elements of Holy Communion. In dire cases, dire measures may be used; in typical cases, vulgar vessels are unacceptable.

Poor Vicar’s Sacristy in a Box cost to date: $72.97

Whether the poor vicar uses a white or red sanctuary candle, both are available from the Dollar Tree for $1.00 each. Wal-Mart and many grocery stores also carry these for about $2.00 each. For those who prefer red light from the flame, the purchase of one of these extended-burn red candles eliminates the need to purchase an expensive candle holder and red globe.

The candles are in clear glass containers. Based on my testing, each candle will burn for about 96 hours; two should last an entire week.

Poor Vicar’s Sacristy in a Box cost to date: $23.02

There are countless items that could be used here. In small missions and parishes, one often sees a basket woven of wicker or reeds. I have been in some places where Tupperware was used; I won’t even go into details about the shoeboxes, bags, and hats I have seen. The poor vicar’s meager budget shouldn’t cause him to use something that is inferior. Maybe it will be entirely appropriate to pass the mitre when the bishop comes for a visit, but, in the meantime, here is something more useful.

This wooden bowl is available for $6.97 from Wal-Mart. It is plain in decoration, with a rich, dark finish. The diameter is 11 1/2″. On the bottom is a small carved pedestal, so that it sits slightly raised from a table. It is large enough to hold the entire contribution from a small parish. While not as beautiful as a brass or silver plate that would cost exponentially more, this bowl is of sufficient appearance and usefulness for the small congregation.

Poor Vicar’s Sacristy in a Box cost to date: $22.02

These small vases are available at Dollar Tree for $1.00 each, for a total of $2.00. They are made of clear glass with a twisting decorative pattern around the sides. These vases are 8″ tall. Wal-Mart sells vases of the same type but 12″ tall for $1.97 each, or $3.94 for a pair. These small vases are good for placing on the gradine with small bunches of fresh flowers. The vases will not detract from the appearance of the altar in any way.

Based on my testing, the box will hold approximately 100 wafers. This should suffice for the poor vicar’s mission congregation.

Poor Vicar’s Sacristy in a Box cost to date: $15.05