One Epiphany tradition which we observe at St. Andrew’s, Emporia, Kansas, is the Blessing of Chalk. Pieces of chalk are blessed by the priest at the end of mass on the feast of Epiphany, and the faithful then take home the chalk to mark a blessing over the doors of their houses. The note that is handed out says:
It has been a tradition in the Church to bless chalk at the Masses for Epiphany, and then use the blessed chalk as part of blessing one’s home in the New Year.
To bless your home, use the blessed chalk to write “20+C+M+B+20” above the doorways: 2020 for the year; C, M, B for the 3 Magi (Casper, Melchior, and Balthasar) and for Christus Mansionem Benedicat, Latin for “May Christ Bless this House.” As you are writing, pray one of the following prayers.
May all who come to our home this year rejoice to find Christ living among us; and may we seek and serve, in everyone we meet, that same Jesus who is Lord, forever and ever. Amen.
Lord God of heaven and earth, you revealed your only-begotten Son to every nation by the guidance of a star. Bless this house and all who inhabit it. Fill us with the light of Christ, that our concern for others may reflect your love. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Lord our God, bless this household. May we be blessed with health, goodness of heart, gentleness, and the keeping of your law. We give thanks to you, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.