As the Christmas season draws to a close, many religious households partake in a special tradition to welcome the New Year and commemorate the Feast of Epiphany: chalking the door. This practice is a way to invite Christ’s blessing into your home and lives, symbolizing faith, protection, and hospitality.

What Is Chalking the Door?

Chalking the door involves writing a series of symbols with blessed chalk, typically above the main entrance of the home. For 2024, the inscription would read:

20 ✝ C ✝ M ✝ B ✝ 24

The numbers represent the year, while the letters have two meanings:

1. They stand for the traditional names of the Magi—Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar—who visited the Christ Child.
2. They also form the Latin phrase, Christus Mansionem Benedicat, meaning “May Christ bless this house.”

The crosses between the letters and numbers symbolize Christ’s presence and protection.

How to Chalk the Door

1. Begin with a short prayer, asking for Christ’s blessing upon your household.
2. Use blessed chalk to write the symbols.
3. Recite the following blessing (or a similar one):
   “Lord God of heaven and earth, you revealed your only-begotten Son to every nation by the guidance of a star. Bless this house and all who dwell in it. Fill them with the light of Christ, that their love for one another and for others may shine brightly. Amen.”
4. Finish by sprinkling the doorway with holy water, if available.

Why Do We Chalk the Door?

This beautiful tradition connects our homes to the journey of the Magi and invites Christ to dwell within. It’s a powerful reminder to open our hearts to the blessings and responsibilities of faith, hospitality, and love.

Celebrating Epiphany Beyond Chalking

Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, is also a time to reflect on the manifestation of Christ to all nations. Whether it’s through attending Mass, preparing a King Cake, or spending time with family, this feast reminds us of God’s universal love.

Let your door proclaim your faith and welcome Christ into your home this Epiphany!

Spread the word by ordering these informational cards for your parish, friends and or family....