Epiphany, also known as Twelfth Night, Theophany, or Three King Days, marks the occasion of a time-honored Christian tradition of "chalking the doors." The formula for the ritual - adapted for 202l- is simple: take chalk of any color and write the following above the entrance of your home:

20 + C + M + B +2l

The letters have two meanings. First, they represent the initials of the Magi - Caspar, Malchior, and Balthazar - who came to visit Jesus in His first home. They also abbreviate the Latin phrase, Christus mansionem benedicat: "May Christ bless the house." The "+" signs represent the cross, and the "20" at the beginning and the "2l" at the end mark the year. Taken together, this inscription is performed as a request for Christ to bless those homes so marked and that He stay with those who dwell therein throughout the entire year.

The chalking of the doors is a centuries-old practice throughout the world, through 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 there.

The timing for the chalking of the doors varies somewhat in practice. This prayer may be prayed on the traditional Feast of the Epiphany - the Twelfth Day of Christmas. Most often, the chalking takes place after Epiphany Mass, and can be done at any church, home, or dwelling.

CHALK AND PRAYERS WILL BE AVAILABLE AFTER MASS AS YOU EXIT CHURCH.