Melkite Blessing of Flowers
Dormition of the Holy Theotokos, August 15
At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy
Deacon: Let us pray to the Lord.
All: Lord have mercy.
Priest:
Lord Jesus Christ, our God, you admired the lilies of the fields and asked us to imitate them by putting aside worldly care and depending on your Divine Providence. We ask you to bless these flowers which were offered in honor of your all-holy Mother, the Ever-virgin Mary, on the occasion of her passing to heavenly glory.
Accept, O Lord, these flowers as a sweet fragrance. Fill the hearts of those who offered them and those who will receive them with love for You and your Holy Mother who is also the heavenly mother of us all. And through her intercession, make us worthy to cast off the old man and put on the new man created in your likeness.
For You are the source of all holiness, and to You we render glory and to your Eternal Father and your All-Holy, Good and Living-giving Spirit, now and always and forever and ever.
Amen.