BLESSINGS: (Cf.

The Book of Blessings)

God is the source from whom all good things come. God who is all good has made all things good so that His creatures may be filled with His
blessings. The first and most important of God’s blessings is his saving intervention in the course of human history through the life and mission of
His Son through whom redemption has been accomplished. Therefore, God, above all, is to be blessed for God is blessed forever.

During his earthly ministry Jesus is portrayed as blessing those he encounters, especially children and those who are in serious need. The only
condition for the gift of blessing was faith on the part of the individual(s) petitioning a blessing.

OFFICES AND MINISTRIES:

1. Blessings are part of the Liturgy of the Church, therefore, their communal celebration is preferred and in some cases necessary.
2. The blessings of things or places should not take place without the presence of at least some faithful.
3. The ministry of blessing involves a particular exercise of the priesthood of Christ. Thus by virtue of orders and a particular office certain
blessings are to be done by bishops, priests, deacons. Laymen and women, because of their participation in the priesthood of Jesus
Christ and the dignity they receive through their Baptism and Confirmation may celebrate certain blessings according to the indications
contained in the Book of Blessings.
4. However a priest or a deacon is present the office of presiding is left to him.
5. Participation of the faithful will be more active if there is serious liturgical education regarding the importance and method of celebrating
blessings.

TYPICAL STRUCTURE:
1. Typically, blessings have two parts: a proclamation of the Word and a praise of God’s goodness which also includes a petition for God’s
help. There is usually a beginning (Introductory Rite) and a conclusion.
2. A blessing is a sacred sign that derives its meaning and effectiveness from God’s Word that is proclaimed. Therefore, the Word of God
is central.
3. The second part insures that God is blessed (praised) for God’s goodness and the Church, who is the Body of Christ, has the right and
duty to implore God’s help.
4. There are also certain signs that can accompany the second part – the formula of blessing:
 Outstretching, raising or joining of hands: signifying prayer: invocation, surrender and with reverence.
 The laying on of hands: signifying an invocation of the Holy Spirit, as well as, the care of the community for the sick and
suffering; a sign often used by Jesus himself (Mark 16:18)
 Sign of the cross: recognition that every blessing is a sharing in and a consequence of the Paschal Mystery of Christ
 Sprinkling of Holy Water: Biblical sign of water that is a traditional sign of blessing and salvation in God. It is also a
recollection of the Paschal Mystery of Christ
 Incensation: sign of reverence for God and veneration/honor for the person or thing blessed. A symbol of the Church’s prayer.
(Ps 141)
5. The outward signs are proclamation of faith – should be done with purpose and reverence and without the danger of superstition.

6. Order of Celebration of a Blessing (NB It is important to check the Boo of Blessings for variations/adaptations in the Rite.)
A. Introductory Rites: When all have gathered the minister begins with the Sign of the Cross and a greeting of Faith. This is
followed by some words of introduction in preparation of the blessing.
B. Liturgy of the Word: Someone reads an appropriate text of Scripture. As circumstance suggest there may be a response
(said or sung). The minister may give a brief explanation of the text so that those present may understand through faith
the meaning of the blessing. Intercessions are then prayed in the manner of General Intercessions at Mass. Lord’s Prayer.
C. Prayer of Blessing: With hands outstretched the minister prays the prayer of blessing. After the prayer the minister
sprinkles those present [and the site, implements, animals, etc.] with Holy Water. A suitable song may be sung.
D. Concluding Rite: Some form of blessing is given to those gathered for the celebration. There is a special form for a lay
minister. A suitable song may follow.

7. Short form of Blessing

Invitatory: Our Help is in the name of the Lord. Response: Who made heaven and earth.
Reading of the Word: A short reading follows
Blessing: With hands joined the minister says the prayer of Blessing
Sprinkling: As circumstances suggest the minister may sprinkle those present [and the site, objects, animals, etc.] with Holy Water.