Crossword Genius

Church girl’s sacred vessel (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

chalice

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'sacred vessel' is the definition.
'chalice' can be an answer for 'vessel' (thesaurus). I am not certain of the 'sacred' bit.

'church girl's' is the wordplay.
'church' becomes 'ch' (common abbreviation).
'girl' becomes 'alice' (**).
'ch'+'alice'='CHALICE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for chalice that I've seen before include "Communion cup" , "Large goblet for consecrated wine" , "Wine cup used at Christian Eucharist" , "cup used in company with host" , "Sacred cup for consecrated wine" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app