A custom that dates back to the 10th century is to be renewed Aug. 14-15 at weekend Masses in Jay and Farmington, in celebration of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Blessings of the Herbs and Flowers are to be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14 and 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 15 during Masses at St. Rose of Lima Church on 1 Church St. in Jay, and at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 15, at St. Joseph Church on 133 Middle St. in Farmington.

All are invited to bring cut flowers, wildflowers, and herbs to the Masses in bouquets or vases. They will be arranged in the churches for Fr. Paul Dumais, pastor of both St. Rose of Lima Parish and St. Joseph Parish, to bless them.

The tradition originates from Germany, and formulas for it are found as early as the 10th century. Herbs included all kinds of cultivated and wildflowers, especially those which in some way had a symbolic relation to the Virgin Mary. The people brought herbs to church on her feast not only to secure for themselves another blessed object, but also to make of the occasion a harvest festival of thanksgiving to God.

For more information about the blessings, contact St. Rose of Lima Parish at 207-897-2173 or St. Joseph Parish at 207-778-2778.