In Christianity, a home blessing is an ancient tradition, that can be found in Anglicanism, Orthodox Christianity, and Roman Catholicism. It is performed by a parish priest who sprinkles holy water as he walks through every room of the residence, accompanied by the occupants of the house, while praying for the occupants.

House blessings date back to the early days of Christianity and the ritual takes the form of a prayer. Matthew 2:11 says, "On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh."

Consequently, Episcopalians often have their homes blessed at Epiphany, on January 6th. This commemorates the visitation of the Magi to the child Jesus. However these blessings can be performed at any time convenient to the individual or family. They are especially good just after a residence is built or when a move is made into another residence. It gives the person or family a sense that God dwells “in this place”.

The blessing performed by our clergy can be very simple and quick, long and elaborate, or somewhere in between. It depends on the individual or family needs. We offer a Home Blessing Certificate, quite nice for framing and hanging in the entrance to your residence. What a great way to give a witness to God! Guests see that your home has been blessed and that you are Christians.

 

“Bless this house, O Lord we pray,

Make it safe by night and day...

Bless these walls so firm and stout,

Keeping want and trouble out...

Bless the roof and chimneys tall,

Let thy peace lie overall...

Bless this door that it may prove,

Ever open, To joy and love...

Bless these windows shining bright,

Letting in God’s Heavenly light,

Bless the hearth, the painting there,

With smoke ascending like a prayer!

Bless the folk who dwell within,

Keep them pure and free from sin...

Bless us all that we may be,

Fit O Lord to dwell with thee...

Bless us all that one day we may dwell,

O Lord! With Thee!”

(“Bless This House” song lyrics)