Q: Hi Fr. Paul! Thank you for your priesthood!
I have a question about when to do the blessing of the manger during the Christmas Masses. Is this best done after the Sign of the Cross and Greeting? If so, does it replace the Penitential Act?
Or, is this to be done at the conclusion of the Universal Prayer? Perhaps both are options. Any insight you have would be greatly appreciated!
Blessings,
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A: The Book of Blessings includes an Order for the Blessing of a Christmas Manger or Nativity (chapter 48) within Mass beginning at #1562. It places the blessing at the conclusion of the universal prayer.
Thank you for your priesthood too.