Catholic Sacramentals · Water and oils
Historical origin: Jesuit tradition, Modern Age.
What is and what is not
This object or practice belongs to the field of Catholic piety and must be understood from the general doctrine of the sacramentals. The sacramentals are sacred signs instituted by the Church who, by their prayer, prepare to receive grace and sanctify the circumstances of life. They do not confer grace in the same way as the seven sacraments and do not act automatically. Matter, color, or form have no magic power.
History
In the context of the Society of Jesus, during the Modern Age, the custom of blessing water was developed, asking for the intercession of St. Ignatius of Loyola, especially in situations of illness, pregnancy or family need. Historically it was related to relics, medals or formulas approved in particular rituals. Local diversity requires not to present a private recipe as a universal rite. Its meaning lies in the supplication of the Church and in trust in God, not in a supposed material property acquired automatically.
Its development is inserted into a broader Christian history. From the first centuries, the faithful used the sign of the cross, blessings, water, oil, clothing, pilgrimage and images to keep alive the memory of Baptism and the communion of the saints. In the Middle Ages, the cofradies and reduced forms of religious habits grew; the Modern Age multiplied rituals, medals and sanctuary memories. The contemporary liturgical reform called for a review of these practices so that they lead to the liturgy, sprout from it and avoid superstitions.
Christian use and blessing
It must be received from a minister who uses a legitimate blessing. Drink it or use it devout does not replace medicine, Baptism or the Uniting of the Sick.
The blessing must be done with a rite approved and by the competent minister. The faithful responds to that prayer by living the Gospel: faith, hope, charity, participation in the Eucharist, confession when necessary and works of mercy. A sacramental does not replace a medical consultation, a prudent decision or moral duty.
doctrinal sources for deepening
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1667-1679
- Code of Canon Law, 1166-1172
- Directory on popular piety and liturgy
