17 November 2011
As we approach
holy Advent and Christmas, don't forget, pastors, that the Lutheran Service Book Agenda provides you with rites for blessing the Advent Wreath (p. 309) and for blessing the Creche (p. 311). These annual rites are both very beautiful and I commend them for your use. Additionally, remember that the same volume also contains the rite for house-blessings (p. 313) during the days of Epiphany and reminds us that homes may be blessed annually, recalling during Epiphany the visit of the magi to the home of the infant Christ. These blessings all flow out of the Church's joy in St. Paul's words: "All things are sanctified by the Word of God and prayer."
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3 comments:
Maybe a very silly question from a new Lutheran, but can laypeople use these at home? We've used an advent wreath for years....
Not a silly question at all. There is a rite for blessing the Advent wreath at home also. But it's in the Church's Agenda, p. 324. So here it is:
In the name of the Father...
Amen.
L: As we begin the season of Advent, let this wreath remind us that Jesus Christ came to conquer the darkness of sin and to lead us into the light of His glorious Kingdom. As the prophet Isaiah says: "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined."
L: Our help is in the name of the Lord,
R: who made heaven and earth.
L: Let us pray. O Lord Jesus Christ, the true light who comes into the world to enlighten all people, bless us as we light the candles of this wreath in preparation for Your coming, and enkindle in our hearts the fire of Your love that we may receive You with joy and gladness and evermore remain steadfast in the faith; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
R: Amen.
L: May the Lord almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, bless this wreath for use in our home throughout this holy season of Advent.
R: Amen!
Thank-you. It's printed and ready for use!
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