On Epiphany Sunday, our family has continued a tradition of reciting a blessing and marking the lintel of every doorway in our home (usually with chalk) indicating the year and the initials of the wise men (Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar): 20 C M B 12. CMB also stands for Christus Mansionem Benedicat, Latin for “May Christ Bless this House.”
For more information on this beautiful tradition, the following website has some great readings and more information on this beautiful blessing:
http://www.liturgy.co.nz/blog/epiphany-chalk-house-blessing-2/4942
Thanks for this. My church passed out blessed chalk yesterday, but seeing your photo and the link helps me understand the directions in the bulletin more clearly.
You’re welcome, Maryann. I’m glad my post was helpful! God bless…
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This Catholic practice should be more widely known. I wonder how much more peace would be in families if everyone did this.
I agree, Barb! We look forward to doing it every year on Epiphany…