PRAYER OF BLESSING
ICON OF THE MOTHER OF GOD
Lord God, we acknowledge your infinite glory and the abundance of your gifts. Before the foundation of the world, you appointed Christ the beginning and end of all things.
You chose the Blessed Virgin Mary as the Mother and companion of your Son, the image and model of your Church, the Mother and advocate of us all.
She is the new Eve, through whom you restored what the first Eve had lost. She is the daughter of Zion, who echoed in her heart the longings of the Patriarchs and the hopes of Israel.
She is the poor and lowly servant, who trusted solely in her Lord. In the fullness of time she was delivered of the Sun of justice, the dayspring from on high, Your Son, Jesus Christ. In her flesh she was his Mother, in her person, his disciple, in her love, his servant.
Almighty Father, we ask you now to Bless + sanctify this Icon for the adoration of the Blessed Mother of Your Son.
May all who look upon this sacred image, come to know her protection and maternal care, tracing in their hearts the pattern of holiness. Bless them with faith and hope, love and humility. May they search for peace, strive for justice and realise your love, as they pursue their journey through life towards your heavenly city, where the Blessed Virgin Mary intercedes as Mother and reigns as Queen.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen