In an old tradition (read more here) we blessed chalk for Epiphany and we are marking our doors with it writing 20+C+M+B+19 to pray God’s blessing on our homes for 2019.
There is still some blessed chalk available at church if you want some.
We encourage everyone to take some of the chalk blessed at Epiphany and to gather at the door of their homes with family and friends and say the words below to bless their homes for the coming year.
The tradition is that the wise men carried the story of the Christ child with them on their journey home – we do the same, marking our homes as a sign that Christian hospitality to all can be found there. Offer to bless the home of your neighbours in the same way – a great way for us to bless our community.
What to pray at your home
The lintel of the main door of the house (and other doors if desired) is marked by a senior member of the household in the following way:
20 + C + M + B + 19
whilst saying the following prayer:
The three Wise Men WRITE THIS
Caspar C
Melchior M
and Balthazar B
followed the star of God’s Son who became man
Two Thousand 20
and nineteen years ago. 19
May Christ bless our home ++
and remain with us through the new year ++
If others are present, you may continue:
Almighty God, incline your ear.
Bless us and all who are gathered here.
Send your holy angel
who will defend us and fill with grace
all who dwell here. Amen.
C M B above the door, also stands for Christus Mansionem Benedicat, Latin for “May Christ Bless this House.”
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