To bring encouragement and blessings to families for 2023, we would like to share a special European, Catholic tradition for Epiphany to bless homes in the new year, using blessed chalk. The feast of manifestation, or Epiphany, is traditionally celebrated the 12th day after Christmas, January 6th.
Catholics marking their homes with chalk for the Epiphany is a tradition that dates back centuries, signifying their homes are homes where Christ lives.
With the blessing of the chalk, we are asking the Lord to bless our home, all inhabitants of our home as well as any guests who may pass through our door throughout the year.
This ceremony of the blessing of the home and inscription of the initials of the three Magi above each door (Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar), can be performed by the members of the family (or a priest) and can become a beautiful annual family tradition. The letters "20+C+M+B+23" which are for the Latin Christus Mansionem Benedicat (Christ bless this house).
Additional information on this tradition can be found by clicking here.
Those interested in blessing their homes on the Feast of the Epiphany are invited to contact their parishes to ask their priests to bless their chalk. This information has also been shared with the parishes in hopes that many parishes will choose to participate.
Follow these easy steps to bless your house this year on the Feast of the Epiphany:
- Purchase chalk (can be white or coloured); you will only need one piece.
- Print out prayer cards by clicking here.
- Ask your parish priest to bless your chalk.
- Pray the prayer as a family and use the chalk to mark the outside of your home, either above of beside your front door. For an example from 2022 - click here.
