Home Blessing

One of the sacred traditions of the Armenian Church is the Home Blessing Service. According to St. Gregory of Datev, this tradition was established by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Himself. After His Resurrection, He entered the upper room where His disciples had gathered and offered them His blessing, saying: “Peace be with you.” (John 20:19)

During apostolic times, the twelve apostles of Christ visited the homes of the faithful to share the joyous message of Christ’s Nativity and Resurrection and to bless their dwellings. This practice continued with their successors—priests and bishops—who, especially on the feast days of Theophany and Holy Resurrection (Easter), entered the homes of believers to proclaim the good news and perform the Home Blessing Service.

Through this beautiful tradition, the home is transformed into a small church. As St. Paul writes: “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:2)

During the service, the priest prays for God’s grace to protect the home and its inhabitants, granting them good health, faithfulness, and peace, so that they may live devout lives, glorify God, and uplift the Holy Church. A sanctified home becomes a place filled with divine love and peace—fit to be a dwelling for the Holy Trinity, saints, and angels. However, a house overcome by sinful behavior cannot become such a holy space.

According to the sacred customs of the Armenian Church, homes may be blessed during the feasts of The Nativity (Christmas) and The Resurrection (Easter), as well as on joyful occasions such as moving into a new home.

To schedule a Home Blessing, all parishioners are kindly asked to contact the Pastor or the Church Office. Please prepare the following traditional elements in advance of the visit:

  • A piece of bread

  • A dish of salt

  • A glass of water

May your home always be filled with Christ’s peace and the blessings of heaven.

“Bread and Salt: Home Blessing” — This video, produced by our Diocese, beautifully explores the meaning and spiritual significance of the Home Blessing service in the Armenian Church tradition.