Only the pure are allowed to serve the holy water. No matter how hard they try, no one will be able to approach that water unless they are pure or chosen. The wall enclosing the holy water can be broken by true love or tears shed in genuine devotion for someone you love.
Phillip was one of the chosen ones. His father had given the post to him when he assumed control of the association. He had performed a ritual and used the same water to cleanse his soul before accepting the position.
However, October, a Christian, refused to accept them the moment Edward brought them up to her. She nevertheless chose to respect his family's beliefs because she loved him. Now that she has to defend her children, she returns to her previous belief that holy water has the power to save lives.
