Catholic home altars trace their origins back to early Christian households. Inspired by the earliest Christian communities, where homes were often the setting for communal worship and prayer, today's altars carry on this ancient tradition of creating a sacred space for personal devotion.

A home altar or family altar is a shrine kept in the home of some Western Christian families used for Christian prayer and family worship.

Dec 23, 2020 · Before the construction of the Temple, the ancient Israelites built 17 private altars — and rebuilt two Temple altars — to thank and petition God.

Jan 29, 2022 · How do you set up a Catholic home altar? An important part of the domestic church is creating a place for family prayer. The family that prays together, stays together.” – Fr. Patrick Peyton. This is a place that we use to gather together daily to pray the rosary, morning and night time prayers.

Jul 11, 2018 · How to Design a Home Altar: Catholic Home Altar Ideas. I’m here to tell you that setting up a home altar is not the complicated task that it may seem! It’s simple to do, there aren’t any rules, and it’s a great way to set the scene for the Domestic Church in your home.

Home altars will vary greatly from family to family and from season to season. The important thing is to be intentional about what to include so that you are creating a space that draws you toward God. Here is a home shrine Pinterest board to get the creative juices flowing.

Mar 1, 2025 · A home/family altar is a small shrine kept by Catholics around the world. In Japan, both Christians and Shintos use a kamidan or “God Shelf.” It’s a place of solemnity and sanctity in which your family and guests might find repose, healing and inspiration.

Feb 26, 2025 · Our Lord, the Theotokos, the name saints of their seven children and a host of heavenly intercessors adorn their walls. The “family altar” stands center with the chalice and paten used at their...

A home altar can become a space for grieving and finding comfort in times of loss. It allows individuals to remember and pray for departed loved ones, fostering a sense of continuity and connection with the communion of saints.

Dive into our comprehensive article series exploring the essence, construction, and significance of Catholic home altars. Uncover the what, how, and why of these sacred spaces, and discover how they serve as powerful catalysts for spiritual growth and connection.