Have mercy tender God….Wash away my sin, cleanse me from my guilt….wash me with fresh water, wash me bright as snow.

The Book of Psalm

Most cultures require that one clean oneself before an important event. The sacramental use of Holy Water gives protection from evil, while reminding one of his own baptism.

The text of a medieval rite, dated 1078, preserved in the missal of Vich Cathedral, Barcelona, Spain. At the Abbey of Roncevalles the blessing is used at the end of Mass for the blessing of pilgrims passing through.