13 Nov

2021

Summorum Pontificum Pilgrimage IV: Blessing of a Bell

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See earlier posts of the Summorum Pontificum Pilgrimage

Separate from the pilgrimage was the fascinating and unusual ceremony of the Blessing of a Bell. It took place on late Saturday afternoon in the church of the Most Holy Trinity of the Pilgrims (Santissima Trinità dei Pellegrini ) This parish is in the care of the Fraternity of St. Peter (FSSP).

This ceremony is a perfect example of the power of Catholic tradition. It communicates the significance of the church bell and of its consecration to God through a series of gestures and actions. These are not “didactic” but, nevertheless, by symbol and analogy, convey meaning more profoundly taan any pedagogical lecture could accomplish. Consider how these ceremonies in several respects parallel the baptismal rite.

In the course of the ceremony of blessing the bishop recites a series of magnificent exorcisms, prayers and blessings. One example:

Bless O Lord, this water with a heavenly benediction, and may the power of the Holy Ghost come upon it, so that when this vessel, prepared to call together the children of Holy Church, has been washed with it, there may be kept far away from wheresoever this bell may sound, the power of those lying in wait, the shadow of spectres, the ravages of whirlwinds, the stroke of lightning, the damage of thunder, the disaster of tempests, and every breath of storm; and when the sons of Christians hear its ringing, may their devotion increase so that, hastening to the bosom of their mother the Church, they may sing to Thee in the Church of the Saints a new canticle….

(Above and below)After blessing the water, the bishop washes the bell with an aspergillium of hyssop.
Two clerics then wash the whole bell, inside and out, with sponges dipped in holy water.
After the bell has been dried with a linen cloth, the master of ceremonies marks with chalk a series of crosses on the bell.
Prior to incensing the bell the bishop washes and purifies his hands.
The brazier for incensing the bell.
Incense from the brazier fills the bell.
Striking one of the first notes from the newly blessed bell.
The newly blessed bell is clad in a white “baptismal” garment.
(Above and below) After the ceremony.

continue to Part V

Published in Pilgrimage Summorum Pontificum 2021