Catholic rite of blessing of a new home

The Catholic Rite of Blessing of a New Home is a beautiful and meaningful way to consecrate a new dwelling and ask for God's protection and blessing upon the family who will inhabit it. Here is a general outline of the rite:

Preparation

• The priest or deacon will typically arrive at the new home before the blessing to prepare the space.
• The home should be clean and tidy, and any furniture or decorations that may be considered inappropriate for a sacred space should be removed or covered.
• The family should be present at the blessing, and it is customary for them to be dressed in their Sunday best.

The Rite

1. Introduction: The priest or deacon will introduce the blessing, explaining the significance of the rite and asking the family to join in prayer.
2. Prayer of Blessing: The priest or deacon will recite a prayer of blessing, which may include the following elements:
   • A prayer of thanksgiving for the gift of a new home
   • A prayer for the protection and guidance of God
   • A prayer for the family to live in harmony and peace
   • A prayer for the home to be a place of prayer, worship, and hospitality
3. Blessing of the Home: The priest or deacon will then bless the home, typically by sprinkling holy water in each room and around the perimeter of the property.
4. Prayer of Consecration: The priest or deacon will recite a prayer of consecration, asking God to consecrate the home and make it a sacred space.
5. Final Blessing: The priest or deacon will conclude the blessing with a final prayer, asking God to bless the family and keep them safe in their new home.

Scriptural Readings

• The following scriptural readings are commonly used during the Rite of Blessing of a New Home:
  • Psalm 23: "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing."
  • Matthew 10:28: "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul."
  • Ephesians 2:20: "Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone."

Prayers and Intercessions

• The following prayers and intercessions are commonly used during the Rite of Blessing of a New Home:
  • "O God, you have given us this home as a place of rest and refuge. Bless it, we pray, and keep us safe within its walls."
  • "May this home be a place of prayer, a place of worship, and a place of hospitality."
  • "May the love of God be the foundation upon which we build our lives, and may we always remember that we are not our own, but are created for the glory of God."

Conclusion

• The Rite of Blessing of a New Home is a beautiful and meaningful way to consecrate a new dwelling and ask for God's protection and blessing upon the family who will inhabit it.
• The blessing is typically followed by a reception or celebration, where the family and friends can gather to celebrate the new home and the blessings of God.