A family business blessing before a meal

Family gatherings are special times. Meals, events, birthdays, memorial services, and graduations permeate life as an extended family. The occasions happen with some regularity, so it’s easy to take them for granted, especially when you work together in the family business, see each other often, live in close proximity, and are rushing to get through the busyness of life. Yet each gathering is unique in time, place, and season in your life.

This blessing is intended for the family gathering, particularly one at which food is served. Pausing festivities for a blessing — for just one minute (I timed it!) — will help set the tone for a great event with your family.

Bless our family gathering today
With a spirit of celebration
With an attitude of thanksgiving
And with hearts that are generous.

Bless our journey together as a family
The road behind us full of joys, and sorrows as well
Help us see how shared memories shape our lives
As the horizon, full of hope, beckons us forward.

Bless our relationships with each other
Always remembering those who came before us
Help us find ways to deepen our connections
And when hurting, find ways to heal.

Bless our family participation in business
Remind us of how it provides for and holds us together
Help us balance the family and the company
So that both remain a blessing to future generations.

Finally, bless these plants and animals that nourish our bodies
Bless those who grow, prepare, and serve our meal
Help us to not take for granted all of the sacrifices
Surrounding our celebration today. 

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Prior blessings: For a couple transitioning the family business, For those who do not return to the family business, for one who forgives others in the family business, for a long-term key employee, for the next generation’s new business venture, for a family member recovering from addiction, for a sibling partnership, for the end of a family business partnership, for grandparents in the family business, for those experiencing family estrangement, for your estate planning efforts, for a family business gathering, upon the passing of a family business member, for rest, for the next generation’s return, for the senior generation letting go, and for the new year.