20+C+M+B+12
God of Bethlehem and Cana,
God of Jordan’s leaping waters,
in baptism you bring us
into your family.
You wed us and embrace us
as your beloved.
May we fill this place
with kindness to one another,
with hospitality to guests,
and with abundant care
for every stranger.
By the gentle light of a star,
you guide home all who seek you
on paths of faith, hope, and love.
Then we will join the angels in
proclaiming your praise.
Glory in heaven and peace on earth,
now and forever. Amen
The gospel tells us that the magi found Christ “on entering the house.” The door to your home is a holy threshold. You can bless those who come in and go out by inscribing above the door in chalk the first two numbers of the year (20) + C + M + B + (12) the last two numbers of the year. Tradition tells us that the letters stand for the names of the magi: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar. Adolph Adam points out that it may also mean “Christus mansionem benedicat” or “May Christ bless this dwelling.” It is appropriate to bless your door in January—janua means “door” and the first month is the door to the new year.
From Father Greg of the Saint Anthony Community
Related articles
- Epiphany – Christus Mansionem Benedicat (winckles.typepad.com)
- Epiphany (deaconcast.com)
