[Aquinasfan]

The splashing of Mary with water is a clear reference to the Asperges.

What's that?

[Romulus]

Asperges by Gary D. Penkala

Asperges is the older name for the Rite of Blessing and Sprinkling Holy Water which is now an option at the beginning of Sunday Mass, replacing the Penitential Rite. The rite has its origins at least as early as the ninth century with Pope Leo IV. In the Tridentine Mass, the form was:

· Celebrant sprinkles the altar, himself, and assisting ministers with holy water.

· He sprinkles the people, either from the sanctuary or passing through the aisles.

· During this, the chanting includes:
The proper antiphon: Asperges me, Domine during the year, or Vidi aquam during the Paschaltide

Psalm 51:1 during the year, or Psalm 118:1 during Paschaltide

Gloria Patri (omitted during Passiontide)

The antiphon is repeated

· Celebrant sings versicles and prayer.


P: Asperges me
C: Domine, hyssopo, et mundabor: lavabis me, et super nivem dealbabor.


P: Thou shalt sprinkle me,
C: Lord, with hyssop and I shall be cleansed; thou shalt wash me, and I shall be made whiter than snow.