Aspergilium
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The aspergilium is a liturgical tool used in Roman Catholic and Anglican ceremonies to asperse, or sprinkle, holy water. It is commonly found as a pierced hollow ball on the end of a handle similar to a rattle. Inside is a small sponge. The ball end of the aspergilium is dipped into holy water and the priest then shakes the aspergilium to make the blessed water come out.
The aspergilium is used in the Rite of Baptism, and during the Easter Season. In addition, a priest will use the aspergilium to bless the candles during candlemas services and the palms prior to Palm Sunday services. At a requiem, if a casket is present, the priest will sprinkle holy water on the casket. The aspergilium can be used in other manners where sprinkling of holy water is appropriate, such as a house blessing where the priest might bless the entry to the home.
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