Chalk the Door!
The chalking of the doors is a centuries-old practice used to celebrate Epiphany throughout the world. Take chalk of any color and write the following above the entrance of your home: 20 + C + M + B + 23. The letters represent the initials of the Magi — Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar. They also abbreviate the Latin phrase, Christus mansionem benedicat: “May Christ bless the house.” The plus signs represent the cross, and the “20” at the beginning and the “23” at the end mark the year. This inscription asks Jesus to bless those homes so marked and those that live there throughout the entire year.
Lord Jesus,
Today we celebrate your kingship over all the nations. Just as the Three Wise Men gave gifts to you that day, we present our family as a gift to you. Bless our home and help our family to be a light to our friends and family so that through us, they can meet you. Amen.
The Presentation and Preparation of the Gifts at Mass is when members of the assembly bring the gifts of bread and wine to the altar. (CCC 1350-1351) When that happens, we offer ourselves along with the bread and wine to Jesus. Today, when the gifts are presented at Mass, offer yourself to Jesus.
Think of someone who may be going through a difficult time. Present a
small gift from your family to let them know you care. Gift ideas could include
hand-made cards, fresh-baked cookies, or whatever your family thinks is
appropriate.
The word “Epiphany” means manifestation. The feast of the Epiphany is the manifestation of Jesus as Messiah of Israel, Son of God, and king of the nations. It celebrates the adoration of Jesus by the wise men (Magi) from the East who represent neighboring pagan nations that welcome the Good News of salvation through the birth of Jesus. (CCC 528)
© Copyright 2026 Archdiocese of Detroit. All rights reserved. Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition © 1970, 1986, 1997, 1998, 2001 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., Washington, D.C. All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.
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