Why does the priest mix a little water with the wine in the chalice before the consecration?
– Katie in Effingham
Thank you for this wonderful question. During the preparation of the gifts at Mass, the priest adds a small amount of water to the wine while saying quietly, “By the mystery of this water and wine, may we come to share in the divinity of Christ who humbled himself to share in our humanity” (Roman Missal, 2011). This act holds deep theological and symbolic significance. Primarily, it represents the union of Christ’s divinity (symbolized by the wine) with humanity (symbolized by the water). This prayer reflects the doctrine of the Incarnation — God becoming man — and reminds the faithful that through the Eucharist, they participate in divine life.
Additionally, the mingling of water and wine recalls the blood and water that flowed from Christ’s side on the cross (John 19:34), a symbol of both the Eucharist and baptism. Early Church fathers, such as St. Cyprian, interpreted this gesture as representing the inseparable union between Christ and His Church. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (2011) affirms the importance of this ritual, placing it as a meaningful part of the Mass’s preparation rites (§142). Thus, this simple act is rich in meaning, highlighting both the mystery of redemption and the believer’s call to communion with God.
Blessings!
- Father Aloysius Okechukwu Ndeanaefo M.Div., D.Min., PhD. is pastor of St. Mary Parish in Paris.