Rogation and Beating the Bounds

The ancient practice of “beating the bounds” is associated with ‘Rogationtide’. A more or less organised procession leaves the parish church and makes a tour of the extremities of the parish, impressing on the youngsters the “waymarks” or boundary posts and trees which define their local patch to which they are expected to show loyalty and responsibility. It is a walk with a purpose, pausing at particular points to pray and invoke God’s blessing.

Source: www.arthurrankcentre.org.uk/arc3/attachments/ view/14/Rogation%20and%20Beating%20the%20Bounds.doc

The name 'Rogationtide' derives from the Latin rogatio meaning to ask, beseech or intercede. Rogation days were the time of year when God's blessing was asked for the seeds sown in the Spring. During each pause at a boundary marker, the priest would give a blessing on the crops in the fields.