Stepping into a home, we can tell something about its occupants through the environment and décor. We can assess if the person living there is a minimalist or maximalist, a book worm, an avid cook or sports enthusiast. Just as our homes reflect our personalities and interests, so, too, can they reflect our faith through the placement of sacramentals.
 

But what exactly is a sacramental? The Code of Canon Law describes them as “sacred signs, by which effects, especially spiritual effects, are signified in some imitation of the sacraments and are obtained through the intercession of the Church.” (Code of Canon Law 1166) In other words, sacramentals are holy objects or actions which give us grace. Hence, they are described as “signs” because we can physically see or touch them, or carry out an action (perform the sacramental, such as making the sign of the cross). Sacramentals transform everyday items into an encounter with God’s grace, bringing the holy into the ordinary moments of our lives. 

Perhaps you are familiar with some sacramentals already – a rosary, crucifix, or medal, holy water, genuflecting or making the sign of the cross. When bringing new (physical) sacramentals into your home, be sure to have them blessed by a priest or deacon at your local parish.

Five suggestions 

• Holy water 
  A reminder of our baptism, we can bless ourselves with holy water in the house. It protects against evil, strengthens our resolve during temptation and reminds us of God’s grace in our lives. Use this powerful sacramental to bless yourself and your children, or even sprinkle throughout the house. Holy water may be obtained from your local parish, or by asking a priest to bless some for you. 

• Crucifix 
  As Christians, we follow a crucified Savior. In fact, the early Church held the cross – normally, a sign of oppression and defeat – as a sign of victory. And so, the Church encourages us to have a crucifix in our homes. The crucifix reminds us of God’s unconditional love and invites us to offer our lives and work to God, in union with his sacrifice on the cross. And in times of difficulties, it reminds us to surrender our burdens to the God who bore them for us. 

• Brown scapular 
  In 1251, Mary appeared to St. Simon Stock, prior of the Carmelite order, and gave him a scapular – a piece of fabric worn around the neck. The scapular was a sign of being under the “yoke” of Christ (see Mt 11:30) and dedicated to his service. Though at first only used as part of the Carmelite habit, over time a small version emerged for the lay faithful to wear. By wearing this we claim Mary as our mother and place ourselves under her maternal care and intercession. There is even a special rite – called investiture or enrollment – that you can celebrate as you take up wearing the brown scapular. Ask your local pastor to celebrate it with you! 

• Rosary 
  Having a rosary in a prominent place in our homes encourages us to keep Christ and his mother at the center of our lives. Holding our hand as we move from bead to bead,  Mary guides us through her Son’s mysteries, allowing us to see his life through her eyes. 

• Sacred image 
  We adorn our homes with images of loved ones to easily recall them, so why not have a statue or sacred image to remember Christ, Our Blessed Mother or some of the saints? Seeing their images helps us remember we are part of a heavenly family and inspires us to seek their friendship throughout the day. Find some beautiful works of sacred art for your home that will encourage you to pray and reflect. 

Maria Cintorino holds a degree in theology. Her writings have appeared in several publications including Homiletic and Pastoral Review, Our Sunday Visitor and the National Catholic Register.