Asperges

Asperges ( ə-SPUR-jəz) is the rite of sprinkling a congregation with holy water. The name comes from the first word in the 9th verse of Psalm 51 (Psalm 50 in the Vulgate and Septuagint) in the Latin translation which is sung during the traditional form of the rite (or optionally in the ordinary rite) except during Eastertide. The 51st Psalm is also one of the antiphons that may be sung in the rite under the Mass of Paul VI. In the Roman Catholic and Evangelical-Lutheran traditions of Christianity, the Easter Asperges is done with Easter water as part of the renewal of Christian baptismal vows during the Easter Vigil Mass and Easter Sunday Mass. The Vidi Aquam antiphon is used instead of the usual Asperges me. The Easter Asperges is performed throughout Eastertide, from Easter Sunday through Pentecost, in order for the faithful to recall their baptism. Apart from the Easter Asperges of the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday, the Asperges can be done prior to the celebration of Sunday Mass throughout the liturgical year.