Blessing ourselves

[gitsch]

I have always wondered how long have Catholics been blessing ourselves and how did it start?

Thanks,

 

[mosher]

What you are looking for is found here in the Catholic Encyclopedia on New Advent.

 

[gitsch]

Thanks, the Catholic Encyclopedia was very helpful.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

I have always wondered how long have Catholics been blessing ourselves and how did it start?

Thanks,

To me “blessing ourselves” means with Holy water as we enter the church. So I will answer in that context.

Long, long, time ago before cars. People actually walked to church some for miles and miles, over dusty roads and paths. Each church had a water fountain in front of or near the church for them to “wash-up” before entering the church. Now the water has moved inside and we wash-up spiritually when we enter.