Today we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord, Jesus’ manifestation to the whole world after being revealed to the shepherds of Bethlehem.
Traditionally, the Eve of Epiphany is known as the “Twelfth Night” (thus, the Twelve Days of Christmas), with the Feast of the Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day, being January 6th. However, in the United States it is celebrated on the Sunday between January 2 and January 8. In 2024, we celebrate the Epiphany on January 7.
There are many traditions associated with the Epiphany. Blessing of the Home on the Feast of the Epiphany is one. A family member may go through the various rooms of the home saying a blessing and sprinkling holy water (which can be obtained from the parish). Bring a small jar with you to Mass to fill from the holy water font.
The Chalking of the Doors is a centuries-old practice throughout the world, though it appears to be somewhat less well-known in the United States. It is, however, an easy tradition to adopt, and a great practice whereby we dedicate our year to God from its very outset, asking His blessing on our homes and on all who live, work or visit them.
You can bless those who come in and go out by inscribing above the door in chalk the first two numbers of the year + C + M + B + the last two numbers of the year. Tradition tells us that the letters stand for the names of the Magi: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar. Some suggest the C M B may also stand for “Christus Mansionem Benedicat”, meaning “May Christ bless this dwelling.
” 20 † C † M † B † 24
After inscribing the doorway, say a prayer:
Lord God of heaven and earth, in baptism you bring us into your family. May we fill this place with kindness to one another, with hospitality to guests and with abundant care for every stranger. By the gentle light of a star, guide home all who seek you on paths of faith, hope and love. Then we will join the angels in proclaiming your praise: Glory in heaven and peace on earth Now and forever. Amen. Eating King Cake is another popular Epiphany tradition in many cultures. King Cake is a sweet cake in which a small figure of the baby Jesus is hidden. Searching for the baby Jesus in the cake imitates the Magi’s search for the baby Jesus.