In this final episode of Pillar 2, we learn about the Christian funeral rite. Fr. Mike explains how the new life begun in Baptism comes to greater fulfillment as the Christian passes over from this earthly life into the fullness of the Kingdom. The Church, who has sacramentally nourished her children throughout their earthly pilgrimage, upon their death commends them to the Father and places their bodies in the earth to await the resurrection in hope. Each funeral is to end with a farewell to the beloved dead, knowing that we still share communion in Christ and will reunite in our heavenly home. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1680-1690.
Ever wonder why holy water is so widely used in parishes around the world? Find out here.
Holy water is so customary for Catholics that we sometimes don’t question why the Church uses it or the significance behind it. We most commonly use holy water when we walk into church and dip our fingers into a font to bless ourselves.
So what does holy water actually do, and why is it important?
Holy water is one of the Church’s most essential sacramentals. It’s blessed by God through a priest, with a rite of blessing that includes prayers of exorcism. This blessing elevates the water to a sacramental that helps us receive God’s grace when used faithfully. Not only is holy water used to give grace to God’s children, it is also used to help defend us in spiritual warfare.
Because of its power, holy water is used in almost every sacrament. For instance, in the Sacrament of Baptism, the priest pours holy water over an infant’s or new convert’s head. Holy water is also used for Anointing of the Sick. In weddings, the priest uses holy water to bless the couple’s rings. At funerals, the priest sprinkles holy water over the deceased person’s coffin.
So how can we truly appreciate holy water and enjoy the benefits of it? By incorporating it into our daily lives.
In addition to using holy water to bless ourselves when we enter a parish, we should also use it to bless our homes, our families, our work spaces, and anything that you use with the goal of glorifying God in your daily life.
