START A BLESSING TRADITION FOR THE EPIPHANY!

January 4, 2023

With time the chalk will fade. As it does we let the meaning of the symbols written sink into the depths of our heart and be manifest in our words and actions the Latin words, Christus mansionem benedictat, “May Christ bless the house.”   Loving God, bless this chalk which you have created, that it may be helpful to your people; and grant that through the invocation of your most Holy Name that we who use it in faith to write upon the door of our home the names of your holy ones Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, may receive health of body and protection of soul for all who dwell in or visit our home; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Instructions for Blessing the Home Using the blessed chalk mark the lintel of your front door (or front porch step) as follows: 20 + C + M + B + 23

Everyone prays an “Our Father” together. Then the leader says and writes:

“The Three Wise Men,

Caspar...” (Write the letter C)

“Melchior...” (Write the letter M)

“and Balthazar...” (Write the letter B)

“and 23 years ago.” Write the last two digits of the year

“May Christ bless our home...” Write the first two crosses)

“and remain with us through the new year.” (Write the last two crosses)

Then everyone prays together:

Almighty God, incline your ear. Bless us and all who are gathered here. Make the door of my house wide enough to receive all who need human love and companionship, narrow enough to shut out all envy, pride and strife. Make its threshold smooth enough to be neither stumbling block to children nor to straying feet, but rugged and strong enough to turn back the tempter’s power. O God, make the door of my house the gateway to Your eternal Kingdom. We ask these things in the Name of Jesus Christ Your Son. Amen. 