Living Liturgically: Using Holy Water in Your Devotional Life

Catholics expect Holy Water to be present at the entrance to every church, but many don't realize that it's so much more than a Sunday ritual. It's an ancient and powerful sacramental of the Church that provides protection, imparts grace, and promotes healing. What is the history of Holy Water, and how should we use it in our personal devotional lives?

Rich & Ancient History

Sacred Scripture records Israelite priests purifying both people and places, sprinkling them with water as God instructed in the Old Testament books of Numbers and Leviticus. The priests also used water for ritual cleansing before making an offering to the One True God. 

In Jerusalem, large fonts at the entrance of the temple allowed worshipers to cleanse themselves in purification before entering to worship. 

The use of Holy Water in early Christianity is well-documented in the New Testament as well as accounts from ancient Christianity and the Church Fathers.

These accounts mention baptismal water and holy water used in healings. The sick were either signed with the Cross and sprinkled with the water, had it poured over them, or were given the water to drink.

We bless these creatures in the Name of Jesus Christ, Thy only Son; we invoke upon this water and this oil the Name of Him Who suffered, Who was crucified, Who arose from the dead, and Who sits at the right of the Uncreated. Grant unto these creatures the power to heal; may all fevers, every evil spirit, and all maladies be put to flight by him who either drinks these beverages or is anointed with them, and may they be a remedy in the Name of Jesus Christ, Thy only Son.