A parental blessing is a ritual blessing usually given in the home by a parent to a child. The purpose of the blessing is to provide comfort and counsel. The Sabbath is a perfect time for this ordinance, as the family is enjoying time together
The blessing is usually given by the parents but can be given by any authority figure for whom the child has respect (a grandparent, uncle, aunt, older sibling, or another trusted adult.) While such a blessing may be suggested by the giver, the child should either request or desire the blessing. A child should never be forced to receive a blessing – or receive one from someone he or she does not want it from.
Administering the Blessing
The Officiant chosen to give the blessing should arrange for the child to comfortably sit in a chair. The Officiator stands directly behind the child and begins by laying their hands upon the head of the child.
There may be any number of additional participants to the blessing, so long as each is acceptable to the child. They do not all have to be adults.
The participants encircle the seated child, placing their hands upon the child’s head along with the Officiator. One hand may be used if there are many participants.
The Officiator calls the child by their full name and pronounces a blessing as the spirit dictates.