Rogatione

Rogatione refers to the Rogation rites of Western Christianity, especially in the Roman Catholic tradition, a period of prayer and public supplication intended to obtain mercy, protection, and divine favor for communities and their crops. The term comes from the Latin rogatio, from rogare meaning to ask or beg.

Rogation rites have their roots in late antiquity and were developed in the early medieval period. They are traditionally associated with St. Mamertus, bishop of Vienne (died c. 474), who established processions and litanies on the days leading up to the Ascension. The observance grew into a three-day sequence known as the Major Rogations (dies Rogationum), during which the faithful participated in outdoor processions, recited the Litany of the Saints, and offered prayers for the renewal of the earth, peace, and the well-being of the community. The rites often included the blessing of fields and crops and the sprinkling of holy water.

In the Roman Rite today, the Rogations consist of three days of supplication with processions and the Litany of the Saints; some communities also observe Rogation Sunday, the Sunday before Ascension, as part of Rogationtide. After the reforms associated with the Second Vatican Council, Rogation rites remain optional liturgical options rather than fixed obligations, but they continue in many dioceses and parishes, particularly in rural areas, as occasions of intercession, penitence, and gratitude for creation.

Related terms include Rogation Sunday and Rogationtide.