JAY — A custom that dates back to the 10th century will be renewed at a special vigil Mass on Monday, Aug. 14, in celebration of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Aug. 15).
The Blessing of the Herbs and Flowers will be held at 6 p.m. at St. Rose of Lima Church on 1 Church St.
“God is the source of all healing, and the blessing of the herbs asks God to bless the medicinal powers of herbs to make them mercifully efficient against disease and sickness,” said Fr. Paul Dumais, pastor of both St. Rose of Lima Parish in Jay and St. Joseph Parish in Farmington, according to a news release from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland. “Flowers have always been associated with Our Lady and many flowers have popular names related to her. Once blessed, these elements of nature may be used as seasonings in cooking and baking, steeped as teas, burned as incense, or used to beautify homes.”
All are invited to bring cut flowers, wildflowers, and herbs to the Mass in bouquets or vases. They will be arranged in the churches for Dumais to bless them.
To view a list of Mass times at Maine churches for Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 14, and Tuesday, Aug. 15, visit portlanddiocese.org.
For more information, call St. Rose of Lima Parish at 207-897-2173.
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