192 Christian Blessings

Right after telling his disciples to "love your enemies, do good to those who hate you," Jesus instructs them to "bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you" (Lk 6:28). St. Paul echoes the Lord's command when he exhorts the Romans to "bless those who persecute [you], bless and do not curse them" (Rom 12:14). St. Peter urges that each time we are on the receiving end of evil, we should return "a blessing, because to this you were called, that you might inherit a blessing" (1 Pt 3:9).

This is why the Church tells us that "every baptized person is called to be a 'blessing,' and to bless".

Blessings are called "sacramentals" because they prepare us to receive the grace of the sacraments and help us to grow to be more like Christ. Blessings consist of prayer, Scripture, and sometimes a special ritual sign.

People are accustomed to seeing bishops, priests, and deacons blessing objects or persons in the name of the Church. However, there are other blessings that can be prayed by anyone who has been baptized, "in virtue of the universal priesthood, a dignity they possess because of their baptism and confirmation". The blessings given by laypersons are exercised because of their special office, such as parents on behalf of their children.

Like the Lord into whom they have been baptized, parents should bless and pray for their children. Each one of us should remember the sick and those who suffer. Each time we gather around the family table, we should bless God and the food he has given us. On special occasions, we will observe the traditions of the season, sanctifying by prayer and blessing all the seasons of grace that God has given to us.