Contact the rectory (301-249-2266) or email Father Joe (frjoe@erols.com) and schedule to have your home blessed by a priest and/or deacon. Sanctify your residence and put the devil on notice that he is not welcome in your house. Remember that every house blessing is also a minor exorcism where we seek God’s protection over you and your loved ones.
Homes are ultimately blessed, not simply by clergy with holy water, but by the holiness and faith of those who live there. Make your homes “little churches” where you will never be ashamed or dismissive of the presence of Christ. Instructions will also be shared about the creation of a home altar or shrine that will become a focus for daily prayer. As Missionary Disciples of Christ, witness to your family and neighbors what it means to be a Catholic Christian believer.
Copies of the ritual and accompanying prayers will be given family members to assist in the home blessing and as a resource for the spiritual growth of members. The booklet includes the following: Service for the Home Blessing; Litany and Consecration to the Sacred Heart; Recommended Prayers for Room Blessings; Basic Catholic Prayers; and the Rosary.
It is also traditional to leave an image of Jesus and/or Mary as a gift for the home being blessed. We have an assortment of images from which parishioners might make a selection (one of Christ and one of Mary).
Icon Images of Jesus & Mary (1/2/3)
Other Images of Jesus Christ (4/5/6)
An Image of Mary Alone and an Image of the Holy Family [counts as 2] (7/8)
Images of Jesus at the Last Supper (9/10)
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