Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

May 31, 2024

Q. Can you use holy water by consuming it?

A. Holy water is a common sacramental in the Church. Sacramentals are defined as “sacred signs by which effects, especially spiritual effects, are signified in some imitation of the sacraments and are obtained through the intercession of the Church” (c. 1166).

The term "imitation" here indicates that sacramentals mirror the effects of sacraments while conferring some spiritual benefit. For instance, in the Baptismal Rite, water is used to forgive Original Sin and incorporate the baptized person into the life of the Trinity. Holy water is also used in other rites such as sprinkling during Easter season, inviting those sprinkled to recall their baptism and renew their commitment to God.

Holy water blesses objects and spaces outside liturgy, setting them apart for God's use or cleansing homes from spiritual afflictions analogous to baptism's effect on individuals.

Since holy water is regulated by the Church, it should be used in ways that conform to its connection with Baptism. The Church has no official stance on consuming holy water; thus, there can be legitimate disagreement among Catholics regarding this practice.

Considering motivation for drinking holy water might reflect our Lord’s words about life-giving water and baptism's effects. Conversely, since baptism involves external application of water by a cleric, drinking holy water may not align with its intended use.

It is crucial to avoid superstition with all sacramentals. Holy water is not magic; drinking it does not provide more efficacy than traditional uses like making the sign of the cross or being sprinkled during liturgy.