Blessing of the wine on St. John the Evangelist - December 27, 2023
Father Purdy blesses the wine presented for blessing on the communion rail
Wine is traditionally blessed on St. John's Day in remembrance of the legend that St. John safely drank poisoned wine offered to him by his enemy after blessing it. Catholics use this sacramental wine for special occasions throughout the year and to give to the sick.
Here is an excerpt from the traditional blessing said by the priest after Mass:
Let us pray.
If it please you, Lord God, bless + and consecrate + this vessel of wine (or any other beverage) by the power of your right hand; and grant that, through the merits of St. John, apostle and evangelist, all your faithful who drink of it may find it a help and a protection. As the blessed John drank the poisoned potion without any ill effects, so may all who today drink the blessed wine in his honor be delivered from poisoning and similar harmful things. And as they offer themselves body and soul to you, may they obtain pardon of all their sins; through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
Lord, bless + this creature drink, so that it may be a health-giving medicine to all who use it; and grant by your grace that all who taste of it may enjoy bodily and spiritual health in calling on your holy name; through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
May the blessing of almighty God, Father, Son, + and Holy Spirit, come on this wine (or any other beverage) and remain always.
All: Amen.
