Statement on blessing our buildings
We have received some enquiries recently about the blessing of our buildings. Blessing buildings in the NHS, or in other organisations, is not unusual. It often involves praying for all the people who have been part of the life of the building. It is usually a respectful and appropriate way to mark the end of our involvement with a space.
Deliverance ministry is a specialist form of pastoral care within the Church of England. It is rooted in the Church's commitment to healing, wholeness and peace for people experiencing distress, whether physical, mental or spiritual. It is offered through prayer, sacrament and scripture, and forms part of the Church's wider healing ministry.
We understand that this subject can feel upsetting or unsettling for staff, patients and families. We want to provide context and be clear about what building blessings involve. NCH&C has never held or requested an exorcism at any of our sites.