Blessing of Homes on the Solemnity of the Epiphany
Blessing of homes is a tradition of popular piety in relation with the
Solemnity of Epiphany. A traditional way of doing this is to use a
blessed chalk to write the home’s entrance, 20+C+M+B+22. The
letters C, M, B have meanings. They are the initials of the traditional
names of the three Magi: Gaspar, Melchior and Balthasar. They also
abbreviate the Latin words Christus Mansionem Benedicat, “May
Christ Bless the House”. The “+” sign represents the cross and 2022
is the year. Then offer the following prayer:
“Visit, O Blessed Lord, this home with the gladness of your
presence. Bless all who live and visit here with the gift of your love;
and grant that we may manifest your love to each other and to all
whose lives we touch. May we grow in grace and in the knowledge
and love of you; guide, comfort, and strengthen us in peace, O
Jesus Christ, now and forever. Amen”