In the Orthodox tradition, there is the practice of consecrating a dwelling. The rite of consecration of a house or apartment is performed directly by the clergyman.
In order to consecrate the dwelling, it is necessary to invite a priest to the house. This can be done with a personal appeal to a clergyman or by contacting a church shop in order to express a desire to consecrate a home.
Immediately during the consecration, not only all household members can be in the apartment, but also close relatives, acquaintances or friends - all those who often visit the consecrated room. During the rite of consecration, the priest prays for the household, their relatives and friends, therefore it is desirable for the latter and themselves to be present during the performance of this church service.
Of the items used during the consecration, the following should be highlighted: holy water, vegetable oil (oil), candles, stickers with crosses. Sometimes the priest already has holy water and stickers with him, which will be glued to the four walls of the dwelling in all cardinal directions. Some clergy do not use stickers, but manually apply the sign of the cross to the walls.
So, immediately before the consecration, it is necessary to put a table in the center of the room, on which containers with holy water and oil will be located. The table can be placed in front of the iconostasis, or a holy icon can be placed on the very surface of the table. It is also recommended to write on a piece of paper the names of residents, close relatives and all those who need to be remembered during the rite of consecration. Before the consecration ceremony, the priest will put the Gospel and the cross on the table itself, so the surface of the table must be clean.
Also during the consecration, candles are used. Some clergymen during the rite itself put candles in special candlesticks or in dishes suitable for this under the signs of the cross on the walls on four sides. That is, you can prepare special candlesticks or containers in the amount of four pieces for this action.
Such is the external preparation for the consecration of the apartment. However, it is necessary to mention the internal preparation, which should consist in understanding the meaning of sanctification. The consecration of dwellings should not be approached as some kind of magical ritual; an Orthodox person should be aware that divine grace is asked for the residents, helping them during their lives. In addition, the kvaritra is consecrated to protect against the influence of dark forces and evil people. True, it is worth considering that the tenants themselves should try to lead a life that is not disgusting, otherwise no consecrations may help.
