During the Easter celebration, one of the important elements used is Easter water. It is a type of holy water in the Catholic church that is specially consecrated on Holy Saturday before Resurrection Sunday.
The use of holy water during the Easter celebration is rooted in the Catholic Church's tradition. Continue reading to understand its uses and significance on this special occasion.
Purification of the Soul
Easter Sunday is one of the most important days in the Christian and Catholic religions. This is the day Jesus Christ was resurrected from the dead, symbolizing His victory over sin and death. This proves that He is the perfect sacrifice who wash away the sins of the earth so that people can be saved and will not suffer eternal damnation. This way, all who trust in Christ can have new life on earth and everlasting life with God in heaven.
The significance of holy water during the Easter celebration is that it symbolizes the purification of the soul. The water signifies the renewal of baptismal vows and the washing away of sins. Holy water is used to bless the faithful, the church, and the surroundings. It is also used to sprinkle on food, homes, and other objects to invoke God's blessings.
Uses of Easter Water
The tradition of using Easter water is believed to have started in France. The uses of holy water during the Easter celebration are numerous.
- Paschal Candle: Before it is used for the vigil, the Paschal candle must be blessed with Easter water.
- Holy Oils: Holy water can also be sprinkled on holy oils. These oils are used during the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and the Anointing of the Sick.
- Faithful Believers: Holy water is used to bless the faithful during the Easter celebration. The priest or bishop sprinkles holy water on the congregation to bless them.
- Food: The food consumed during the Easter celebration should also be blessed with prayers and holy water. This tradition is believed that the blessings of holy water will bring good health and prosperity to those who consume it.
Use Easter Water in Your Home
Holy water is an essential element of the Easter celebrations. But did you know that aside from attending mass at church on Easter, you can also extend the celebration to your home? You can use Easter water to bless and cleanse your dwelling place, warding off evil spirits. Sprinkle holy water around your house as well as on your family members while praying.
Where can you find Easter water? What some people do is bring containers to mass so they can get Easter water that is blessed at the Easter vigil.
You can also use holy water in your home on a regular day. It doesn't need to be a sacred occasion. You can buy holy water online from religious shops, where the holy water is sourced from the holiest places on earth, including the Jordan River where Jesus was baptized by John.