Catholics who move to a new place of residence often wish to have their dwelling blessed, to call the favor and help of God upon all those who live in the house and all those who will enter it.

The Roman Ritual (Book of Blessings) provides two formats for house blessings: one during the Easter or Christmas season (specifically for the Epiphany) and one for Ordinary Time. Those who live in the home must be present for a house to be blessed. A priest, deacon or lay person can administer the blessing, although if a lay person does so they must use the rites accorded to lay ministers in the Roman Ritual.

A house blessing includes Scripture readings, intercessions and a prayer of blessing.

©LPi