Washing Hands

[M.SIGGA]

Before the Liturgy of the Eucharist when the priest washes his hands and says "wash away my iniquities and cleanse me from my sins" what exactly is happening?

[cappie]

The washing of the hands in the Roman Rite finds its origin as a practical necessity following the presiding priest's acceptance of the offerings of yhe people, and then the incensing the offerings. It id unknown in many in many other major liturgical families. It has, however, now taken on the added symbolic meaning of renewing one's baptismal purification, appropriate before offering the sacrifice of parise. So if it is performed carefully and with meaning, this simple rite can help the assembly to appreciate the connection between the purifying waters of baptism and the Eucharist.