The Asperges - A Baptismal Rite for Lent

A Baptismal Rite of Holy Water, traditionally known as The Asperges, will begin the Eucharist in Lent. The word comes from Psalm 50:9 in the Vulgate Psalter: ‘Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow’. The symbolism of water used in The Asperges is clear: it washes clean; it supports life.

The Asperges are especially suited to the season of Lent. Originally a rite of exorcism, in the course of centuries the Asperges became connected with baptism – a reminder of our own birth into Christ and a means of renewing its grace.

The memory of what our baptism means for us can still be a source of blessing – a reminder that: we are chosen by the Father; given a new birth in Christ; become his adopted children; are members of the Body of Christ; share the life of the Holy Spirit. 'Renewing the living spring of divine life within us' we can deepen in our hearts the experience of being part of the great baptised community of Christians.

The rite of The Asperges probably had its origin in the monastic custom of sprinkling the monastery each Sunday, though in the Middle Ages, in some parts of Europe, the procession for the sprinkling with holy water went through the whole village.

In modern churches the rite is now replaced by the custom of signing oneself with holy water taken from a bowl or stoup placed near the entrance of the church.

As you enter St. John’s this Lent, you are encouraged to make a sign of the cross with the waters of Baptism, as a reminder of your birth into the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord. The traditional rite of the Asperges will be sung while the congregation assembles for worship.

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7 Finch Street, East Malvern 3145
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email: vicar@stjohnseastmalvern.org.au