Questions about blessing an apartment

[DarkLight]

Couple questions about the idea of blessing a home:

(1) I presume it doesn’t make a difference if the person requesting the blessing is the owner, or just the resident?

(2) How common is the idea? I’ve never heard of it offline, to be honest.

(3) I understand a small financial contribution is in order, but I probably don’t have a lot to spare. Is it appropriate to provide baked good or some other thing that the priest can take with him?

(4) If a home altar is displayed, is it appropriate to ask for a separate blessing on it as well?

 

[Isca]

I can’t see why a resident (I assume tenant) can’t ask for the home to be blessed. Whilst you’re there, it’s your safe place, after all. It seems to be very common in Italy, but that’s a cultural thing I reckon. I assume if the priest blesses your house, that would include your home altar - anyway, he’ll see it and will know what to do!

I think offering some nice baked goods would be quite acceptable, if you’re a bit short of money - and it takes a lot of effort, too. Why not ask the priest what cakes/cookies/biscuits he likes, so you can do something he’ll really appreciate?

 

[TheLittleLady]

We handle requests for house blessings all of the time, rent houses, apartments, once a call by the owner to bless a brand new hotel!

It is the very best houswarming.

Priest will be happy to bless any of your religious items at the same time.

Ask the secretary if Father likes baked goods, if he has any food issues (diabetic, etc.). Some priests like to schedule a house blessing around supper time and they like eating with the parishioner. If you’d like to share a meal with Father, ask to schedule in the evening and break bread together.

If it is scheduled for afternoon, you could to a cup of tea/coffee and cookies.

Father does not expect an offering. Sometimes people give one, but, it is not at all required.