Blessing a home

It is an old Christian custom to bless a home. Family and friends can meet for this occasion. A pastor may be called to lead the rite, but it can also be led by some other parish worker or any Christian.

The blessing of a new home includes thanksgiving to God and prayer on behalf of all who live in the house, whether it is a single person or a large family. Although the rite is often called 'Blessing a new home' it is quite alright to ask God to bless a home regardless of how long one has been living in it!

Blessing a home can be linked together with a housewarming party, a baptism that is performed at home, a wedding party or another celebration. A home can also be blessed after a family member has been baptized in a church.

The blessing can be lead in many ways. It might be something as simple as a prayer and a hymn sung together. See what the Book of Sacred Rites (kirkkokäsikirja) suggests.