By Bea Flodeen
As an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI), there are certain principles we abide by, one of which is celebrations. We pray in morning circle before volunteers go to work, we bless the project at groundbreakings and we rejoice every time a family receives the keys to their new home.
As is stated in "Celebrations," a resource guide from HFHI:
One of the foundational principles upon which Habitat for Humanity was established and operates is that we build houses as a witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are proudly a Christian ministry. One means of maintaining our Christian
focus is to start each meeting and each day on the site with prayer. [...] Groundbreakings and dedication services committed to the glory of God are also essential foundations for each home. Our hope is that these resources will help your affiliate and church partners focus on the blessings of Jesus Christ in this ministry.
The following is an actual home dedication program.
ORDER OF SERVICE
Welcome
Jeff Capps, Executive Director, CVHFH
Opening Prayer
Dave Loy, Minister, Community of Christ
Acknowledgments
Jeff Capps, Executive Director, CVHFH
Scripture Reading
Trisha Finn, Future Habitat Homeowner
Litany of Life
Dave Loy
Presentation of the Partner Covenant
Patti Kunz, Director of Development, CVHFH
Presentation of Keys
Councilman Chuck Swore, City of Cedar Rapids
Presentation of Gifts
Patti Kunz, Director of Development, CVHFH
Tim Cernin, Cedar Rapids and Marion Hy-Vee Food & Drug Stores
Pat Nauman, CVC of the Embroiderers Guild of America, Inc
Joyce Black & Tom Fruehling, Holy Redeemer Lutheran
Jeri Hines and Michael Ask, Heartscape Studios
Closing Prayer and Benediction
Dave Loy
SCRIPTURE
Joshua 24:14-15
“Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”
LITANY OF LIFE
Leader: With gratitude to God who has provided the materials
and given us strength to build this house.
People: We dedicate this home.
Leader: To the deep and abiding love that binds the family together,
People: We dedicate this home.
Leader: To the understanding, patience, discipline and forgiveness essential for the growth and fulfillment of the Finn family,
People: We dedicate this home.
Leader: To the vision, courage, faith and hope that make life cheerful and serene,
People: We dedicate this home.
Leader: To the beauty and order and cleanliness that provide a wholesome atmosphere and elevate the spirit of Christian living,
People: We dedicate this home.
Leader: To the training of the bodies, minds and souls of all who live within these walls,
People: We dedicate this home.
Leader: To the work of God’s kingdom in the world and in cooperation with his church,
People: We dedicate this home to the glory of God the Father,
Son and Holy Spirit.
Amen.
