Traditional Bambinelli blessing of the baby Jesus from the family creche on Gaudete Sunday

Bambinelli blessing at church on Gaudete Sunday, the third of Advent, for the baby Jesus from the family creche at home

The children enter in procession with the priest who prays this blessing prior to the Mass and blesses the images of the Christ Child with holy water:

"God our Father, you loved us so much you sent us your only Son, Jesus, born of the Virgin Mary, to save us and lead us back to you.

"We pray that, with your blessing, these images of Jesus might be a sign of your presence and love in our homes.

"Good Father, give your blessing to all who gather with us this Christmas, family and friends.

"Open our hearts, that we might receive Jesus in joy, do always what he asks of us and see him in those who need our love.

"We ask this in the name of Jesus, your beloved Son, who came to give peace to the world. You who live and reign forever and ever. Amen."