A Helpful Look at Communion Trays, Materials, and Brands

Most churches start thinking about new communion trays because something finally went missing, got dented, or the old set just does not match anymore. It feels like it should be a simple decision until you start comparing finishes, materials, and brand names. This guide keeps everything clear so you know what actually matters before buying anything new.

How Communion Trays Are Set Up

The classic stacking setup is still the most common. It builds into that familiar tall tower and works well for larger groups, and it stores neatly in the cupboard. Many churches are using a traditional metal stacking tray right now without really thinking about it, simply because it has always been there.

Some churches prefer a single pass style where only one tray travels down the row instead of passing bread and cups separately. If you like that approach, there are trays designed specifically for it, but you can also use a bread insert with a standard tray to get a similar setup without changing everything.

Many churches have more flexibility than they think. Once you know what pieces exist, you can usually adapt your current trays instead of starting from scratch.

The Parts That Actually Matter When Choosing a Tray

Churches often ask if the metal really makes a difference. It does, but mostly in upkeep and weight. Brass has a warm traditional look. A stainless steel tray stays bright with very little effort and usually feels a bit lighter in the hands than older brass. Some churches like polished aluminum, others like brass tone, and some prefer simple stainless that blends with anything.

Another factor is how well the new tray matches what you already have. Even small differences in tone show up once everything is laid out. If you are replacing only one or two pieces from an older set, consistency matters more than the metal itself.

What Happened to Artistic Churchware

A lot of older communion sets came from Artistic Churchware. They were a major name for years, especially for deeper brass and warm silver finishes. The company eventually closed and production stopped completely. What remains now is leftover stock from suppliers, and that will run out over time.

If you have an Artistic set and only need to replace one piece, Sudbury usually comes closest in tone. It will not be exact, but it blends well enough that most people never notice.

A Quick Look at the Brands Still Around

With Artistic gone, most churches work with Sudbury, Broadman, or Swanson. Each brand has strengths depending on what your church prefers.

Sudbury is a dependable option when you want durability and consistent finishes. Whether your church prefers polished aluminum or a brass tone look, their stacking trays feel very traditional and familiar (example Sudbury tray).

Broadman keeps a steady classic style in their communion ware. Their stainless steel tray has been a common choice for churches that want everything in the set to look clean and coordinated.

Swanson focuses on simple, practical stainless trays. They work well for churches that want something reliable without overthinking finishes (example Swanson tray).

Converting Your Current Setup Into Single Pass

One of the easiest improvements a church can make is switching to a bread insert. The insert sits inside your existing tray and instantly gives you a single pass setup. It keeps the service smooth, especially for smaller congregations, and you do not need a whole new system.

Many churches never hear about this option, so they assume changing their serving style means replacing everything. The insert solves that without much cost and lets you keep the trays you already know and like.

What to Keep in Mind Before Buying

Before your church orders anything, think about your typical attendance and how many cups you actually need. Tray capacities vary more than you might expect, especially between different brands and metals.

If you use prefilled communion cups, no need to worry about fit. The prefilled cups we carry work with normal tray openings, so you can switch between plastic cups and prefilled cups without changing your setup.

If you are replacing only one piece from an older set, measure the diameter so your new tray or lid fits properly. Even a small mismatch can make the set look off or feel awkward when everything is stacked on the table.

A few minutes of checking saves a lot of trouble later and helps you land on a tray that fits your church, both in style and in practice.