Traditional Epiphany Chalking of the Home

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It’s an ancient Epiphany tradition for families to gather to ask for God’s blessing on their home and all who visit or live there. Chalk is used to write 20 + C + M + B + 18 (or whichever year you are in) on the lintel, the doorstep or close to the door of the house, along with prayers asking Jesus to visit and be present in that home.

 

Give the children the opportunity to lead their family in this Epiphany tradition by offering them a piece of chalk, instructions and the prayers to take home. 

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PDF of Epiphany Chalking Instructions & Prayers

 

Note: C M B represents the traditional names of the Magi (Casper, Melchior and Balthazar) as well as the Latin words Christus mansionem benedictat, ‘May Christ bless the house.’

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At St Peter’s, Walworth, we bless the chalk as a gathered church at the end of our Sunday service, before sending the congregation out to pray for God’s blessing on their homes.