If the church is also to be used for regular worship by other Christian bodies, it is appropriate that their representatives take part in the service, and that the service be adapted.
Suitable portions of this service may be used by the bishop, or by a priest with the bishop’s permission, for dedicating a private chapel or oratory.
For the Dedication of Furnishings, or Parts of a Church or Chapel
Relevant portions of the service for the Dedication and Consecration of a Church may be used by the bishop or a priest for blessing alterations, additions, or new furnishings in a church or chapel. In each such case, the appropriate prayer may be said, or adapted to the circumstances; and prayers and Bible readings related to the particular occasion may be selected. When possible, the areas or furnishings should be put into use at this time.
The blessing of a new font or baptistry should always be done by a bishop, and should be followed, if possible, by the administration of Holy Baptism.
The blessing of an Altar is also reserved for a bishop, and is always to be followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
For a Church or Chapel Long in Use
When buildings have been used for public worship for an extended period of time without having been consecrated, the following order may provide an opportunity for the congregation to reaffirm its commitment to its mission and ministry, and it will be particularly appropriate when a congregation attains recognition as a parish.
- Procession
- Signing of threshold
- Litany of Thanksgiving for a Church, page 578
- Te Deum
