Bless This House

It is a tradition in a number of cultures to pray a blessing over the home on the Feast of the Epiphany. Known colloquially as ‘chalking the door’ this Epiphany blessing is one way individuals and families can invite God’s blessing into their home and family life throughout the year. 

The short version involves reading from scripture, tracing 20+C+M+B+26 over the lintel of the main entrance to the home (inside or outside), and a short, shared prayer at the end. The longer version includes blessing all the rooms in the home.

• The numbers are for the current year.

• The letters C, M, B have two meanings: They are the initials of the traditional names of the three magi: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar. They also abbreviate the Latin words Christus Mansionem Benedicat, which stands for “May Christ bless the house.”

• The “+” signs represent the cross, a reminder it is through Christ’s Passion, death and resurrection that all grace flows and that it will be your family’s willingness to share each other’s crosses throughout the year that will be the greatest source of blessing for all who abide in and enter our homes.

Click the following links for a short form (door only) and long form (whole house) guide for blessing your home.