One of the ministries of the church through the ages has been the practice of blessing houses. This is an opportunity to pray through the house, for the people who live, work and rest there.
When could I have a house blessing?
Prayer is always a good thing, and asking God’s peace in our home is a practice that Christians can do at any time. When a priest comes to bless a house there is a sense in which they represent the wider church. The following comes from the Anglican Church of Canada occasional service book:
The blessing of a home has traditionally involved a procession from room to
room, the presiding minister offering an appropriate prayer in each room.
The rite is based upon the conviction that a space is sanctified by
the presence and activity of the people of God. This rite asks for God’s blessing
on the inhabitants of the home, their friends and guests, and on the life of those
who will live there. Some people wish to pray for God’s
blessing on their home after a stressful or tragic event.
If you would like to enquire about a house blessing please contact us through the contact form or call the office. One of the church leaders will have a phone conversation with you to discuss the possibility of coming to your home for a blessing and to see if there is anything we need to be aware of. If you have any questions or concerns its helpful to hear these first.
Who should be there for the blessing?
From the household as many family members or residents may be there and sometimes other Christian friends or family members join as well. Typically the priest comes with one or two other church leaders, who will take turns in praying in different rooms as the Holy Spirit leads.
I’m not a regular churchgoer, can you still come to my home?
St George’s parish covers much of the city of Maple Ridge and so if a house is in our area (a bit like a catchment area) we will normally be able to help, you do not need to be a churchgoer. If you are located in a different Anglican parish we will do our best to connect you with another church.
Is there a cost?
The church does not charge for ministry in our community. We are fortunate that our work and ministry is supported by donations. Of course we always grateful to those who want to give to the church, but this is not an expectation.