The Custom of Chalking Doors
There is a Catholic small-“t” tradition of chalking doors wherein a priest or head of the family marks the doors with chalk using the following formula. First two digits of the year + “C” + “M” + “B” + last two digits of the year. For example: 20 + C + M + B + 20
This practice is usually done during the feast of the Epiphany, which coincided the visit of the Magi. In that context, the letters represent the first letters of the small-“t” traditional names of the three wise men: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar. On a more spiritual level, the plus signs, are actually crosses, and the letters abbreviate the Latin prayer, “Christus Mansionem Benedicat” (Christ, bless this house.) Together with the numbers, it is an inscription requesting Christ to bless the marked house, and all who dwell within, throughout the year. It reminds us of the original Passover where houses marked with blood of the lamb were kept safe from the last plague.
If this is something you’d like to do this Epiphany, the head of families can mark the door and pray:
“May all who come to our home this year rejoice to find Christ living among us; and may we seek and serve, in everyone we meet, that same Jesus who is your incarnate Word, now and forever. Amen.
God of heaven and earth, you revealed your only-begotten One to every nation by the guidance of a star. Bless this house and all who inhabit it. Fill us with the light of Christ, that our concern for others may reflect your love. We ask this through Christ our Saviour. Amen.
Loving God, bless this household. May we be blessed with health, goodness of heart, gentleness, and abiding in your will. We ask this through Christ our Saviour. Amen.”
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Posted by Joby Provido
