Blessing ourselves with holy water does not need to be limited to just when we attend mass. By using a respectful container or bottle, we are able to take some holy water home with us, or on long trips for that added protection. Here in this article you will find several examples of such bottles. As long as the bottle is clean, and displays no disrespectful imagery or subject matter, most bottles will do fine.
Contents
What to Look for in a Bottle
A side from it being a clean and respectful bottle, there are a few things to take into consideration.
The Cap Type
It is best to use a bottle that has a lid/cap, that way it is less likely to be spilled everywhere should it fall or be knocked over. The function of the cap is also important, as not all caps serve the same purpose.
A spout cap, is a cap that seals the water in, but instead of having to remove it to empty the bottle, you simply need to push down on one side of the cap to flip open the spout, thus allowing you to pour the water out.
A solid cap is a basic cap that can be found on most other forms of bottles. You don’t need to limit yourself to the simplistic design however. Just as there are a variety of different shaped bottles, so to is there a variety of different shaped solid caps. Some are decorative in design, others can make opening and closing the bottle more easy. So use a cap that best suits your own needs.
Bottle Size/Volume
Depending on where you live or even the season you are in, not all churches can provide enough Holy Water for everyone to take gallons at a time. Be conservative, and only take what you can use without being wasteful.
Alternatively, if you are looking for that added personal protection, or going on a trip. Then the use of an oversize bottle would be impracticable, and may not be allowed on an airplane should you be flying. To this end, consider using travel bottles like the ones shown below. They can be as little as 1-3 oz or even small enough to sit on your key ring.
Plastic Bottles
A plastic bottle would be the lightest of the bottles. They can discolor over time, and may even warp and soften if exposed to the heat of the sun on a hot summers days. As they are made of plastic, most bottles will survive a fall without breaking, and most dents can be pushed back out. This more flexible composition does leave them more susceptible to piercing or ruptures, so it would be advisable to keep them away from pointy or sharp objects.
Glass Bottles
Glass bottles can be found in many different shapes and sizes with a large variety of textures and and finishes. A glass bottle is strong and durable, but they do have their limits. Under enough force they will crack, under even more force they will break and can create sharp shards. As such, it would be best to not drop this type of bottle, knock them against any hard surfaces, or have anything heavy sitting on top of them.
Stainless Steel Bottles
Stainless steel flasks and bottles are the most durable option out there. They are easy to keep clean, and can even be personalized with the help of an engraver. This type of bottle is less likely to be ruptured or pierced, and can survive most falls and knocks. The biggest issue that comes with using a stainless steel bottle, is that if dented or scratched, it can be hard to repair depending on where it is damaged and how badly.
Bottles with Prayers
Some bottles can carry additional blesses of their own. Either affixed or inscribed into the bottle’s surface, this sort of bottle contains a prayer or verse that can be used to help request additional protection from either God himself or that of a particular Saint.
In Conclusion
As you can see in the above examples, Holy Water Bottles can come in many different shapes and sizes, and be made of several materials. What’s important, is that you maintain your bottles and give them a good cleaning out between uses. Also be mindful of their intended uses, and your own comfort. Should you suffer from arthritis, finding a bottle that would be easier for you to open on your own is essential for your own comfort. Likewise, use a bottle that is suitable for you to carry without fear of it breaking or spilling water everywhere.