A STAR OFFERS THE BLESSING OF GOD

Today is Epiphany. The Christmas season has moved steadily toward this moment of great revelation. Today we acknowledge and celebrate that the child born in a lowly manger in the darkness of night is revealed as King of kings and the Light of the World.

Today is also the traditional day for the blessing of homes by marking the lintel of the doorways with chalk. The markings commemorate the three Magi traditionally known by the names of Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar. The markings for 2023 are 20+ C + M + B + 23. These letters represent the three initials of the Magi’s names written between the numbers of the year, separated by four crosses.

A celebration of blessing of the home for Epiphany may begin at the manger and then proceed to each room of the house. Holy water may be used to bless each room of the house. After processing to and blessing each room of the house all gather once again at the manger to pray:

Lord of heaven and earth,

You revealed your only begotten Son to every

Nation by the guidance of a star.

Lord our God, bless this house and all who dwell in it.

May we be blessed with health, goodness of heart,

Gentleness and the keeping of your law.

Fill us with the light of Christ,

That our concern for others may reflect your love.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

May God fill your homes and your lives with His peace, joy, and love throughout the year of 2023.