Epiphany Blessing-Chalking the Door: A Beautiful Epiphany Tradition

Chalking the Door: A Beautiful Epiphany Tradition

As the Christmas season draws to a close, many Christian families around the world participate in a simple yet profound ritual known as "chalking the door." This Epiphany tradition involves marking the entrance of your home with chalk in a special pattern, invoking God's blessing for the year ahead. It's a tangible way to dedicate your household to Christ and welcome His presence.

 The Origins of the Tradition

The custom of chalking the door dates back to medieval Europe and is particularly associated with the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6, which commemorates the visit of the Magi (the Three Wise Men) to the infant Jesus. It has biblical roots in the Passover story, where the Israelites marked their doorposts with lamb's blood to protect their homes from the angel of death (Exodus 12). Similarly, this Epiphany practice symbolizes protection from evil and an invitation for Christ to dwell in the home.

Over time, priests would visit parishioners' homes after Epiphany to bless them, often using chalk to inscribe symbols on the doors. As parishes grew larger, families began performing the ritual themselves. The tradition spread across denominations, including Catholics, Anglicans, Episcopalians, Lutherans, and others, and remains popular in places like Germany, Poland, and increasingly in the United States.

It also echoes the hospitality shown by the Holy Family to the Magi, representing Christ's manifestation to the Gentiles and a call to open our homes to God's grace.

 What Does the Inscription Mean?

The marking typically follows this pattern for the current year (2026):

20 + C + M + B + 26

- The 20 and 26 represent the year.

- The + signs symbolize the cross of Christ.

- C + M + B has a dual meaning:

  - The traditional names of the Magi: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar.

  - The Latin phrase Christus Mansionem Benedicat, translating to "May Christ bless this house."

This "holy graffiti" serves as a public sign of faith, a prayer for protection, and a reminder of the Magi's journey.

 How to Perform the Epiphany Door Blessing

This ritual is family-friendly and can be done on Epiphany (January 6) or anytime during the Epiphany season. Here's a simple guide:

1. Gather supplies:

   - Chalk (ideally blessed by a priest at church on Epiphany; if not, you can use regular chalk and bless it yourself).

   - Optional: Holy water, incense, or Epiphany water for sprinkling.

2. Prepare your family:

   - Gather everyone at the front door. This is a great opportunity for children to participate.

3. Pray together:

   A common prayer liturgy includes:

   Leader: Peace be to this house and to all who dwell herein.

   All: The Lord be with you.  

   Leader: And also with you.

   Leader: Let us pray.  

   Loving God, bless this household and all who enter. May we be blessed with health, goodness of heart, gentleness, and the courage to follow your will. As the Magi followed the star to find Jesus, guide us in this new year. We ask this through Christ our Lord.  

   All: Amen.

   A traditional invocation while marking:

   "The three Wise Men, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, followed the star of God's Son who became human two thousand and twenty-six years ago. May Christ bless our home and remain with us throughout the new year. Amen."

4. Mark the door:

   - Using the chalk, write the inscription above the door lintel (or on the frame if easier): 20 + C + M + B + 26.

   - Take turns letting family members add parts of it.

5. Optional enhancements:

   - Sprinkle holy water on the door and around the home.

   - Walk through each room, praying or singing hymns.

   - Incense the house for added solemnity.

The chalk will eventually fade, symbolizing that true blessings come from within our hearts and actions throughout the year.

This simple act transforms your home into a sacred space, reminding all who pass through of Christ's enduring presence. Why not start this tradition in your family this Epiphany? It's a beautiful way to carry the light of Christmas into the new year.

Epiphany Blessing Credited for Catholic's Home Survival

A Miracle Amidst the Flames: The Epiphany Blessing and a Catholic Home Saved in January 2025

In January 2025, a remarkable story emerged from the devastating Los Angeles wildfires that captured the attention of Catholic communities worldwide. A Catholic lawyer and movie producer in Altadena, California, credited the traditional Epiphany house blessing with saving his home from the destructive fires that ravaged 40,000 acres, destroyed over 12,300 structures, and claimed at least 24 lives. As reported by Catholic author and evangelist Jesse Romero on January 15, this man’s home stood untouched while surrounding properties burned to the ground, a phenomenon he attributed to the spiritual protection of the Epiphany blessing. This story, shared through outlets like Catholicism.org and Catholic365.com, sparked renewed interest in the ancient Catholic practice of "chalking the door" and its perceived power to safeguard homes.

The Story: A Home Spared in the Wildfires

The wildfires, which tore through California in early January 2025, left entire communities in ruins. Amidst this destruction, the Catholic homeowner, who had evacuated with his family as the flames approached, returned the following day to a staggering sight: his house was the only one in the neighborhood left standing. According to Romero, the man had performed the Epiphany house blessing on January 6, the traditional date of the Feast of the Epiphany, using blessed chalk to inscribe a sacred formula above his door. He believed this ritual invoked divine protection, sparing his home from the inferno that consumed everything around it.

This story, while celebrated as a miracle by many Catholics, also came with a caveat. Catholic365.com emphasized that the event should not imply a lack of faith among those whose homes were destroyed—after all, even Catholic churches were not spared in the fires. Instead, it was framed as a moment to celebrate a perceived divine intervention while encouraging others to learn about and participate in the Epiphany blessing for their own homes in 2025.

What Is the Epiphany Blessing?

The Epiphany house blessing, often referred to as "chalking the door," is a centuries-old Catholic tradition tied to the Feast of the Epiphany, celebrated on January 6 (though in the United States, it’s often observed on the Sunday between January 2 and January 8). The Epiphany commemorates the revelation of Jesus Christ to the world, specifically through the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus, as described in Matthew 2:1-12. The feast, also known as Three Kings’ Day or Little Christmas, marks the moment when Christ’s divine identity was revealed to the Gentiles, symbolized by the Magi’s journey.

The blessing itself involves a ritual where families use chalk, typically blessed by a priest, to inscribe a specific formula above their doorways. For 2025, the inscription would read: 20+C+M+B+25. This formula has a dual meaning. The letters C, M, and B traditionally stand for the names of the three Magi—Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar—while also representing the Latin phrase Christus mansionem benedicat, meaning “May Christ bless this house.” The numbers 20 and 25 denote the year, and the crosses symbolize Christ’s presence and protection.

The ritual often includes prayers, scripture readings, and sometimes the use of holy water and incense. A typical prayer, as shared by Catholic World Report, might include: “Visit, O blessed Lord, this home with the gladness of your presence. Bless all who live or visit here with the gift of your love.” Families gather to recite passages like the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) and ask for God’s protection over their home for the coming year. The practice is seen as a way to sanctify the home, inviting Christ’s light and love into the space while warding off evil spirits, a belief rooted in the idea of God’s “new creation” through Christ, as noted by Virgo Sacrata.

Historically, the tradition draws from biblical themes of protection and hospitality. It echoes the Passover story in Exodus, where the Israelites marked their doorposts with lamb’s blood to be spared from the angel of death, and it reflects the Holy Family’s welcome of the Magi. As explained by NorthJersey.com, chalking the door is a tangible act of faith, meant to bless the home and all who enter, setting it apart as a place of Christian hospitality and peace.

A Deeper Look: Faith, Symbolism, and Skepticism

The story of the Altadena home surviving the wildfires highlights the deep spiritual significance of the Epiphany blessing for many Catholics. The homeowner’s faith in the ritual reflects a broader belief in the power of sacramentals—objects or actions, like blessed chalk, that the Church uses to invoke God’s grace. The practice is not just symbolic; for many, it’s a lived expression of trust in divine protection, as seen in the man’s conviction that his home was spared through God’s intervention.

However, this narrative also invites critical reflection. While the story is inspiring, it’s worth considering the broader context of the wildfires. Thousands of others, including faithful Catholics, lost their homes, and the destruction of churches in the same fires suggests that divine protection isn’t guaranteed by such rituals. The Catholic365.com article wisely cautions against interpreting the event as a judgment on others’ faith, but the story still raises questions about the nature of miracles and why some are spared while others are not. From a skeptical perspective, the survival of the house could be attributed to factors like wind patterns, firebreaks, or the materials used in its construction—variables that science might explain more readily than faith.

Moreover, the emphasis on the Epiphany blessing as a protective act can sometimes overshadow its deeper spiritual purpose: to invite Christ into the home and the lives of its inhabitants. The ritual is as much about fostering a Christ-centered household as it is about seeking protection, a point emphasized in prayers that ask for the home to reflect Christ’s love to all who enter.

A Tradition Worth Celebrating

The story of the Altadena home, whether viewed as a miracle or a fortunate coincidence, has brought renewed attention to the Epiphany house blessing in 2025. For Catholics, it’s a reminder of the power of faith and the beauty of traditions that connect the sacred to the everyday. The ritual offers a way to start the new year with intention, dedicating one’s home to Christ and seeking His presence in the months ahead.

If you’re inspired to try the Epiphany blessing, many parishes provide blessed chalk and prayer guides, as noted by Our Lady of Perpetual Help and the Basilica of Saint Mary. Alternatively, families can request a priest to bless their chalk or even perform the full blessing, which might include sprinkling holy water in each room. The act of chalking the door, paired with heartfelt prayer, is a simple yet profound way to mark the Epiphany and invite Christ’s light into your home.

What do you think about this story? Do you believe in the protective power of the Epiphany blessing, or do you see it as a symbolic act of faith? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The Three Kings: A Journey of Faith, Science, and Cultural Unity

The Three Kings: A Journey of Faith, Science, and Cultural Unity

The story of the Three Kings, also known as the Magi or Wise Men, is a fascinating blend of history, culture, and faith. Their journey to Bethlehem to honor the newborn Jesus is a tale that has captivated the hearts and minds of people for centuries. Let's delve into the rich tapestry of their story, exploring their historical significance, cultural impact, and the profound symbolism they represent.

Historical and Cultural Background

The Three Kings are traditionally named Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar. They are believed to have come from different regions: Melchior from Persia, Caspar from India, and Balthazar from Arabia. This diversity highlights the universal appeal of Jesus' birth and the recognition of his significance across different cultures and lands.

The Magi were likely scholars or astrologers, well-versed in the sciences of their time. Their journey was guided by a celestial phenomenon, often referred to as the Star of Bethlehem. This star has been the subject of much speculation and study, with theories ranging from a supernova to a planetary conjunction.

The Star of Bethlehem and Scientific Knowledge

The Star of Bethlehem is a key element in the story of the Magi. It is described as a bright star that led them to the birthplace of Jesus. Modern astronomers have proposed various explanations for this phenomenon, including the alignment of Jupiter and Saturn, which would have created a bright light in the sky.

The Magi's ability to interpret the star's significance demonstrates their advanced scientific knowledge and their role as seekers of truth. Their journey symbolizes the harmony between science and faith, showing that the pursuit of knowledge can lead to a deeper understanding of the divine.  They were men of science, astronomers using the natural world and knowledge of it to seek God, the Son of God.

The First Eucharistic Adoration

Upon reaching Bethlehem, the Magi presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the infant Jesus. These gifts hold deep symbolic meaning: gold represents Jesus' kingship, frankincense his divinity, and myrrh his future suffering and death. This act of offering can be seen as the first Eucharistic adoration, where the Magi recognized and honored the presence of God in Jesus.

Bethlehem, a town of profound historical and religious significance, is often referred to as the "House of Bread." This name is derived from the Hebrew words "Bet Lehem," where "Bet" means house and "Lehem" means bread. The symbolism of bread is deeply rooted in various cultural and religious traditions, making Bethlehem's name particularly meaningful.

Historical and Religious Significance

Bethlehem is famously known as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, a central figure in Christianity. According to the New Testament, Jesus was born in a manger in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah's birthplace. This event is celebrated worldwide during Christmas, drawing pilgrims and tourists to the town each year.

Symbolism of Bread

Bread is a staple food in many cultures, symbolizing sustenance, life, and community. In the context of Bethlehem, the "House of Bread" can be seen as a metaphor for Jesus, who is referred to as the "Bread of Life" in Christian theology. This title emphasizes Jesus' role in providing spiritual nourishment and sustenance to his followers by giving Himself in the form of bread and wine in the Holy Eucharist.

Cultural Impact

The name Bethlehem and its meaning have had a lasting impact on Christian liturgy and traditions. The town's association with bread is reflected in the celebration of the Eucharist, where bread is consecrated and consumed as a literal representation of Jesus' body. This ritual underscores the importance of Bethlehem as a place of spiritual nourishment and divine presence.

Bethlehem's name, meaning "House of Bread," carries rich symbolism and significance. It highlights the town's historical and religious importance, particularly in Christianity, and underscores the universal symbolism of bread as a source of life and sustenance. As a place of pilgrimage and reflection, Bethlehem continues to inspire and nourish the faith of millions around the world.

Reflection: Unity in Diversity

The story of the Three Kings is a powerful reflection on unity in diversity. The Magi, coming from different races and cultures, represent the inclusivity of Jesus' message. Their journey signifies that the search for truth and the recognition of the divine transcend cultural and racial boundaries.

In a world often divided by differences, the story of the Magi reminds us of the importance of coming together in the pursuit of a common goal. It encourages us to embrace diversity and to seek understanding and unity in our shared human experience.

Conclusion

The journey of the Three Kings is a timeless tale that continues to inspire and teach us. It is a story of faith, science, and cultural unity, reminding us that the search for truth and the recognition of the divine are universal pursuits. As we reflect on their journey, let us be inspired to seek knowledge, embrace diversity, and honor the presence of the divine in our lives.

 

The Epiphany of the Lord: Focus on the Light!

 It is Epiphany. It comes from the Greek word "epiphainen" which means to reveal or shine upon.  This day celebrates the main revelations of the person of Christ as God and man. The main times we see this are when the Magi visit Christ (Matthew 2:1-12) which we celebrate today, at the Baptism of Christ (Mark 1:9-11) when the Holy Spirit descends on Christ and God the Father reveals Christ as His only begotten Son; the next moment is at the Wedding of Cana (John 2:1-11) where Jesus performs His first miracle due to the intercession of His Mother Mary.  In this, her last recorded words are shown, "Do whatever He tells you."  Great advice from mom right?  

In the first reading, we read of Jerusalem being told to rise up in splendor, her light has come.  The glory of the Lord shines on her. Darkness covers the earth and thick clouds the people, but God shines through. This light is of course Jesus Christ the Lord (John 8:12)!  Our world is in so much darkness. Just recently, a horrific attack took place in Florida where a mentally ill young Latino shot and killed 5 and wounded others. This perpetrator is said to have been affected by the war in Iraq. Evil is never good. Violence is never good. These affect our psychology. Human beings were not made for violence. We are the only creatures on earth without physical defenses.  Other animals have claws, venom, quills, etc to defend themselves. We do not.

This is why we need Christ the light who illumines minds and hearts keeping us away from evil and violence. The light of the world is Christ and we need to seek Him.  We need to seek Him just like the Three Kings or Magi who came from Midian, Ephah and Sheba with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh did.  These gifts represent Christ's Royalty, Divinity and death as well as the theological virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity.  The Magi represent the "outsiders" or the Gentiles, Pagans and others who are outside of God's "Chosen People," Israel. They represent all the different races coming to meet the Christ child.  All nations will adore the Lord, as we read in today's responsorial Psalm.  God is king over all the earth.  All rulers will pay homage to Him just like the Magi did.  We are the Magi of today coming before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament offering our lives.  I have always loved the Magi. They were instrumental in my conversion because they were men of science who used the stars to find Christ.  In science, we can find God as well! God's creation points to God just like the star pointed to Christ (Job 12:7-10, Psalm 19:1-4, Romans 1:20). The late astronaut and first American in space John Glenn said after seeing the earth from space, "To look out at this kind of creation and not believe in God is to me impossible." 

The magi found the Lord via the science of the stars, astronomy.  We know of their names as Balthazar, Gaspar and Melchior from the document Excerpta et Collectanea which is attributed to St. Bede who died in 735.  Their relics are in the cathedral in Cologne, Germany.  You can read another reflection I wrote here for January 6: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2017/01/3-kings-day-los-reyes-magos.htm. In it, I elaborate more on how the Magi represents all the outsiders. The second reading reminds us as well by telling us that Gentiles are also coheirs and part of the body of Christ. 

Christ was born for all people of all races, genders, orientations, faiths; in every time and place. He is the Savior of all!  The Gospel tells us that great story.  Jesus was born in Bethlehem and the magi came from the east asking King Herod where the newborn king of the Jews was. Herod did not like this because he saw himself as the king of the Jews. He asked the magi to bring him the child so he too can adore Him. They found the child via the star and saw Mary with Him.  The magi prostrated themselves and paid homage to the child and gave Him the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh as prophesied in the first reading of today. Before departing, they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod.  They listened and returned home via a different route. 

The Epiphany is an awesome celebration in our faith. Many cultures celebrate it as another Christmas. Kids put hay under their beds for the camels and wake up to find the hay missing and gifts in their place. Other cultures have feasts and other celebrations commemorating the visit of the magi.  To me, the magi represent all peoples outside of Israel and academia coming to worship the Lord.  This is my personal reflection. The stars and all of nature pays homage to God and leads us to admire Him via His creation.  A few years ago, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg announced that he is no longer an atheist (see more here: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2017/01/facebooks-mark-zuckerberg-no-longer.html).  Even in the darkness, we see in the world today and the thick clouds that cloud the minds of atheists and others, God shines through.  Let us humbly seek Christ the Lord who is the light. Let us approach Him in the Tabernacle and Monstrance and adore Him.  The magi were the first to participate in adoration in my opinion. They sought the light!  We too must seek the light and focus on the light.  Ironically, a cosmic conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn was formed in late December into the new year 2021.  This conjunction made both planets look like the giant Bethlehem star we all see in photos, paintings, and movies.  I was privileged to see it in the Bronx and mediated on viewing it.  Many biblical scholars and astronomers believe this is what the Magi witnessed.  The idea of a star moving in the sky is possible but highly unlikely as it would distort the laws of physics.  I picture myself being with the Wise Men following the star to Christ.  Let us imitate them!  Instead of bringing gifts of gold etc, we have to bring the gifts of our holiness, love, and kindness to others.  We must offer Him our trials and suffering as well and united them to His passion. During this time of covid 19 coronavirus, we are all in a real physical, emotional, and psychological darkness. We must seek the light like the Three Kings did.   This light is of course not some astronomical phenomenon, but Christ the Lord.  O' come let us adore Him! 

Please remember to help me with this ministry which is focused on reaching out to those in the dark.  Please be generous as the Magi were and consider donating or becoming a regular donor. Any amount is useful. God can do anything with any amount.  You can donate via Paypal or www.gofundme.com/sacerdotus and become a patron on www.patron.com/sacerdotus.  God will reward you!  I have already received emails from donors who received many blessings just months after donating.  As soon as I get permission from them, I will share those emails.  I am not a businessman nor investor so I rely on God's providence and how He inspires visitors and readers to donate.  Financial means is not the only way to help. You can pray and also volunteer your talents.  God bless you and Mary keep!  

Readings:  The Epiphany of the Lord | USCCB


 

Here are more reflections from holy writers:

There is something more that must be understood about the gold, incense and myrrh. Solomon testifies that gold symbolizes wisdom when he says, "A pleasing treasure lies in the mouth of the wise." The psalmist bears witness to that incense which prayer offers to God when he says, "Let my prayer ascend as incense in your sight." The myrrh indicates the mortification of our bodies, of which the holy church speaks of its workmen who strive even unto death on behalf of God, "My hands dripped with myrrh."
And so do we too offer gold to the newborn king if we shine in his sight with the brightness of the wisdom from on high. We too offer him incense if we enkindle on the altar of our hearts the thoughts of our human minds by our holy pursuit of prayer, so as to give forth a sweet smell to God by our heavenly desire. And we offer him myrrh if we mortify the vices of our bodies by our self-denial.
Myrrh brings it about, as I have said, that dead bodies do not decompose. For a dead body to decompose is the same as for the human body of ours to become a slave to the decay of dissoluteness, as is said by the prophet: "The pack animals have decomposed in their own dung." This indicates fleshly minded persons who end their lives in the stench of dissoluteness. Therefore we are offering myrrh to God when we employ the spice of self-restraint to keep this earthly body of ours from decomposing through decadence.

— St. Gregory the Great
(540 - 604)


Source: "Forty Gospel Homilies, 10.6," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 28-29.

"Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him bring me word." Appropriately did Herod say, "Bring me word," for the one who hastens to come to Christ always brings a word of renunciation to the devil. When the priest says to the future Christian, "Do you renounce the devil?" the latter will answer, "I do renounce him." Properly therefore are the magi instructed to bring word to Herod, who realized he was taking the place of the devil. Satan knew how to corrupt a person.
"That I may come and worship him." He wants to lie but he cannot. He who feigned adoration will come that he might bow to abuse, kneel to inflict punishment, recline to do harm.… But when the clouds of treachery have passed, in the fair weather of emerging Christian faith, the magi behold again the star they had seen, preceding and leading them on. Finally they arrive at the most holy place of the Lord's birth.
— St. Peter Chrysologus
(380 - 450)



Source: "Sermons 158.8-9," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 25.

Since Herod was king, he was naturally afraid both for himself and for his children. But why was Jerusalem troubled? Surely the prophets had foretold him as the Savior, Benefactor and Deliverer who would come from above. But Jerusalem remained troubled by the same idolatrous affections that had previously caused them to turn from God precisely when God was pouring out his greatest benefits on them. While God was offering them new freedom, they were once again mindful only of the fleshpots of bondage in Egypt…
Although troubled, they nevertheless did not try to understand what was happening. They did not follow the wise men or even take any particular notice. To this extent were they both contentious and careless. This happened just when those in Jerusalem under Herod had reason to pride themselves that a king was being born among them. This had even attracted the attention of the wise from Persia. They were on the point of having everything going their way, as though their affairs were advancing toward improvement. But most did not even take notice. Amid an empire that had become so magnificent, they showed little improvement.
Jerusalem had only recently been delivered from subjugation. It might have been more reasonable for them to think, If the Persians tremble before this king now merely at his birth, wouldn't they tremble much more when he grows up? They would fear and obey him, and our situation might then be more glorious than that of the barbarians. Even if they knew nothing of mysteries or revelations but formed their judgments only on the basis of present self-interest, they surely might have thought along these lines. But nothing like this really occurred to them, so great was their dullness in prophecy and envy in human affairs.
Such dullness and envy must be rooted out of our minds. One must be more impassioned than fire to stand up against such an array. This is why Christ said, "I am come to send fire on earth, and how I wish it were already kindled." And the Spirit on this account appeared in fire.
— St. John Chrysostom
(347 - 407)


Source: "The Gospel of Matthew, Homily 6.4," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 22–23.

The Epiphany of the Lord: God Welcomes All & Science Leads to God

Today is the Epiphany of the Lord.  The word Epiphany comes from the Greek word "epiphainen" which means to reveal or shine upon.  This day celebrates the main revelations of the person of Christ as God and man. The main times we see this is when the Magi visit Christ (Matthew 2:1-12) -which we celebrate today,- at the Baptism of Christ (Mark 1:9-11) when the Holy Spirit descends on Christ and God the Father reveals Christ as His only begotten Son; the next moment is at the Wedding of Cana (John 2:1-11) where Jesus performs His first miracle due to the intercession of His Mother Mary.  In this, her last recorded words are shown, "Do whatever He tells you."  Great advice from mom right? 

We also know of this day as the day the Magi or Three Kings came to pay homage to the child Jesus. The story of the Magi, Wise men or Three Kings is one that has always gotten my attention even as an atheist.  This story of three men coming from far away guided only by a star to adore a child is one that captures the imagination. The "Three Kings" or Magi (Wise men) traveled a long distance to find the child-God.  God used His own cosmic version of a GPS to guide them with a bright star, so to speak. This star could have been a comet, Jupiter, Venus or Saturn, or a conjunction of them; some believe it may have been a Stella Nova - when stars illuminate brightly for a brief moment and then return to their normal brightness.  Jesus is the light that illumines the Magi and us today (John 8:12). This stellar phenomenon should remind us of this.   At midnight Mass, we read about the light shining on those in darkness (see: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2017/12/christmas-eve-child-is-born-unto-us.html).  At around December 22, ancient peoples noticed that the days got darker and began to get longer afterwards.  They linked this to their beliefs surrounding their understanding of the divine. It seems to me that God was preparing man for Christ by guiding primitive religions to collect their beliefs around this time which would become the time of the birth of Christ.  In the Catholic Church, we call this Divine Pedagogy.  Christ is the light the brightens up the darkness. The story of the Magi gives us clues.  These men were outsiders to the Jewish faith, yet they were drawn to the Jewish Messiah.  We will get into this in a little bit.

One can literally visualize the night.  It is such an event that many cultures treat it like another Christmas day.  Latino cultures often hand out gifts to children while reenacting the visit of the Wise Men.  This is a great way to evangelize at an early age.  However, the story is much more deeper than three men who are stopping by to visit a baby as if it were a divine baby shower.  They are bringing with them gifts that have specific meanings. I wrote more on this on my 3 Kings Day (Epiphany) post.  Each came to bring gifts to the child-God Jesus Christ; the gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh.   The gifts often are viewed as symbols of Christ's Royalty, Divinity, and Death.  Others view them as Faith, Hope and Charity. This is mentioned in today's first reading.  We read of "... the caravans of camels and dromedaries from Midian and Ephah; all from Sheba shall come bearing gold and frankincense.." As a student of science, this story brings to mind the fact that these men were men of science and they searched for God in the stars.  Science and Faith are not opposed to each other as Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI stated when he spoke of St. Albert, "St. Albert reminds us that there is friendship between science and faith, and that scientists can, through their vocation to study nature, follow an authentic and absorbing path of sanctity." Today, we have the Hubble telescope and all these satellites in space that take amazing high definition images of the universe.  These images never fail to "wow" scientists and amateur astronomers alike.

Carina Nebula

The Wise Men represent the "outsiders;" the Gentiles, Pagans and others who were not part of the Chosen People - Israel.  They represent all the different races coming to meet the Christ child.  God calls out to them as well and they come to Him (John 10:16).  God wants all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4).

Unfortunately, many times some Catholics promote Triumphalism instead of Catholicism. Triumphalism in the Catholic sense is the attitude that the Catholic religion is superior to other faiths and/or better.  While the Catholic Church does contain the fullness of truth and is necessary for salvation, this does not mean that we are the best or should put others down who are not of our faith.

The story of the Magi shows that God is not prejudice.  While He did choose a particular people, He is Father of all.  He brings others to the faith by their own means many times.  Other faiths are not perfect, but they have the right idea that God does exist and loves us.  The Catechism puts it well:

843 The Catholic Church recognizes in other religions that search, among shadows and images, for the God who is unknown yet near since he gives life and breath and all things and wants all men to be saved. Thus, the Church considers all goodness and truth found in these religions as "a preparation for the Gospel and given by him who enlightens all men that they may at length have life."332

In 2014, Pope Francis touched on this, specifically the Pope's homily.  As usual, Pope Francis broke from his written text briefly to invite those Catholics who are indifferent, left the Church as well as atheists to the faith.  He said:

"I would like to tell all those who feel far from God and the church — and I say this respectfully to those who are afraid or indifferent: The Lord calls you and wants you to be part of his people and does so with great respect and love! The Lord doesn't proselytize, he gives love and this love looks for you, waits for you — for you who don't believe or have drifted away. This is the love of God."

The Pope is right.  The Lord does not proselytize.  He ate and drank with sinners and those who were the pariah of society during His day (Matthew 9:11).  Unfortunately, this behavior is often mistaken as Jesus being too open to all that He doesn't care about their behavior.  This of course is not true for He, while accepting and respecting all, called them to repent (John 8:11).  God calls out to those who are not in the faith.  He has His way of bringing them back.  This is why I love Pope Francis' "meet them where they're at" philosophy.  I have always believed this.

We must be patient with those who left the Church or were never part of it.  We must not judge them or treat them as if they are defects in the world.  Pope Francis has showed already how by simply respecting others brings them to consider God and Catholicism.  Many homosexuals, atheists, protestants and others are opening up more to the Catholic Church even to the point of attending Mass because of this.

We must meet them where they are at on the path to God. Once we meet them there, we can direct them to the right road, so to speak.  You can't given directions from miles away, you have to be close to the lost party.  We must go to them.  It is no wonder why the image on Pope Francis' pectoral cross is that of the Good Shepherd that leaves the 99 behind to get the one that wandered off (Matthew 18:12-14).

Regardless of how others pray, have liturgy; or their attitudes on God and faith, we must trust that God will use these to bring them back to Him just like He used nature, astrology and science to bring the Wise Men to the Christ child.  Science is not anti-God.  Many atheists believe it to be the "killer of God;" however this is not so.  The more we learn about the cosmos and our own planet, the more we realize that the only logical explanation for their existence is an intelligent Creator. This part of the story of the Wise Men is what I like to reflect on being that my area of studies are the sciences.

In the story we see how science leads the Wise Men to God.  This is exactly what happened to me when I was an atheist (See "From Atheist to Catholic..").  I wasn't wooed into Catholicism by preachers, Bibles, Catechisms, theological books, EWTN, Popes etc.  It was science, specifically the science of physics that opened my mind to the Logos.  The popular suggestion "there was a big bang, then processes developed and we came from there.. accept it" did not satisfy my young scientific mind.  I need logical answers, not quick assumptions.  Saying that we're here due to processes and that's how it is does not cut it for me, so to speak.  Like the Wise Men, I needed to get closer to "whom the Star pointed to."  In my case, to whom particles and forces that make up the universe pointed to.

The story of the Wise Men shows that God is always in control of Salvation.  We are not the one who save others.  It is God who brings people to Himself.  As Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI puts so well in his Jesus of Nazareth - The Infancy Narratives:

"The key point is this:  the wise men from the east are a new beginning.  They represent the journeying of humanity toward Christ.  They initiate a procession that continues throughout history.  Not only do they represent the people who have found the way to Christ: they represent the inner aspiration of the human spirit, the dynamism of religions and human reason toward Him." (pg. 97)      

In the first reading, we read of Jerusalem being told to rise up in splendor, her light has come.  The glory of the Lord shines on her. Darkness covers the earth and thick clouds the people, but God shines through. This light is of course Jesus Christ the Lord (John 8:12)!  Our world is in so much darkness.  Evil is never good. Violence is never good. These affect our psychology. Human beings were not made for violence. We are the only creatures on earth without physical defenses.  Other animals have claws, venom, quills, etc to defend themselves. We do not.

This is why we need Christ the light who illumines minds and hearts keeping us away from evil and violence. The light of the world is Christ and we need to seek Him.  We need to seek Him just like the Three Kings or Magi who came from Midian, Ephah and Sheba with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh did.  However, our gift to Jesus must be the perfection of faith, hope and love in our lives.  This is what Jesus wants from us. 

All nations will adore the Lord, as we read in today's responsorial Psalm.  God is king over all the earth.  All rulers will pay homage to Him just like the Magi did.  We are the Magi of today coming before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament offering our lives.  I have always loved the Magi. They were instrumental in my conversion because they were men of science who used the stars to find Christ.  In science, we can find God as well! God's creation points to God just like the star pointed to Christ (Job 12:7-10, Psalm 19:1-4, Romans 1:20). The late astronaut and first American in space John Glenn said after seeing the earth from space, "To look out at this kind of creation and not believe in God is to me impossible."

Relics of the Wise Men

The magi found the Lord via the science of the stars, astronomy.  We know of their names as Balthazar, Gaspar and Melchior from the document Excerpta et Collectanea which is attributed to St. Bede who died in 735.  Their relics are in the cathedral in Cologne, Germany.

You can read another reflection I wrote here for January 6: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2017/01/3-kings-day-los-reyes-magos.htm. In it, I elaborate more on how the Magi represents all the outsiders. The second reading reminds us as well by telling us that Gentiles are also coheirs and part of the body of Christ.

Christ was born for all people of all races, genders, orientation, faiths; in every time and place. He is the Savior of all!  The Gospel tells us that great story.  Jesus was born in Bethlehem and the magi came from the east asking King Herod where the newborn king of the Jews was. Herod did not like this because he saw himself as the king of the Jews. He asked the magi to bring him the child so he too can adore Him. They found the child via the star and saw Mary with Him.  The magi prostrated themselves and paid homage to the child and gave Him the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh as prophesied in the first reading of today. Before departing, they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod.  They listened and returned home via a different route.

The Epiphany is an awesome celebration in our faith. Many cultures celebrate it as another Christmas. Kids put hay under their beds for the camels and wake up to find the hay missing and gifts in their place. Other cultures have feasts and other celebrations commemorating the visit of the magi. To me, the magi represents all peoples outside of Israel and academia coming to worship the Lord. This is my personal reflection. The stars and all of nature pays homage to God and leads us to admire Him via His creation.

May we continue to look for the Christ child and stay focused on the Star which is God's grace.
 


Please remember to help me with this ministry which is focused on reaching out to those in the dark.  Please be generous as the Magi were and consider donating or becoming a regular donor. Any amount is useful. God can do anything with any amount.  You can donate via Paypal or www.gofundme.com/sacerdotus.  God will reward you!  I have already received emails from donors who received many blessings just months after donating.  As soon as I get permission from them, I will share those emails.  I am not a business man nor investor so I rely on God's providence and how He inspires visitors and readers to donate.  Financial means is not the only way to help. You can pray and also volunteer your talents.  God bless you and Mary keep! 






Readings:

http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/010718.cfm



Here are more reflections from holy writers:

There is something more that must be understood about the gold, incense and myrrh. Solomon testifies that gold symbolizes wisdom when he says, "A pleasing treasure lies in the mouth of the wise." The psalmist bears witness to that incense which prayer offers to God when he says, "Let my prayer ascend as incense in your sight." The myrrh indicates the mortification of our bodies, of which the holy church speaks of its workmen who strive even unto death on behalf of God, "My hands dripped with myrrh."
And so do we too offer gold to the newborn king if we shine in his sight with the brightness of the wisdom from on high. We too offer him incense if we enkindle on the altar of our hearts the thoughts of our human minds by our holy pursuit of prayer, so as to give forth a sweet smell to God by our heavenly desire. And we offer him myrrh if we mortify the vices of our bodies by our self-denial.
Myrrh brings it about, as I have said, that dead bodies do not decompose. For a dead body to decompose is the same as for the human body of ours to become a slave to the decay of dissoluteness, as is said by the prophet: "The pack animals have decomposed in their own dung." This indicates fleshly minded persons who end their lives in the stench of dissoluteness. Therefore we are offering myrrh to God when we employ the spice of self-restraint to keep this earthly body of ours from decomposing through decadence.

— St. Gregory the Great
(540 - 604)


Source: "Forty Gospel Homilies, 10.6," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 28-29.

"Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him bring me word." Appropriately did Herod say, "Bring me word," for the one who hastens to come to Christ always brings a word of renunciation to the devil. When the priest says to the future Christian, "Do you renounce the devil?" the latter will answer, "I do renounce him." Properly therefore are the magi instructed to bring word to Herod, who realized he was taking the place of the devil. Satan knew how to corrupt a person.
"That I may come and worship him." He wants to lie but he cannot. He who feigned adoration will come that he might bow to abuse, kneel to inflict punishment, recline to do harm.… But when the clouds of treachery have passed, in the fair weather of emerging Christian faith, the magi behold again the star they had seen, preceding and leading them on. Finally they arrive at the most holy place of the Lord's birth.
— St. Peter Chrysologus
(380 - 450)



Source: "Sermons 158.8-9," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 25.

Since Herod was king, he was naturally afraid both for himself and for his children. But why was Jerusalem troubled? Surely the prophets had foretold him as the Savior, Benefactor and Deliverer who would come from above. But Jerusalem remained troubled by the same idolatrous affections that had previously caused them to turn from God precisely when God was pouring out his greatest benefits on them. While God was offering them new freedom, they were once again mindful only of the fleshpots of bondage in Egypt…
Although troubled, they nevertheless did not try to understand what was happening. They did not follow the wise men or even take any particular notice. To this extent were they both contentious and careless. This happened just when those in Jerusalem under Herod had reason to pride themselves that a king was being born among them. This had even attracted the attention of the wise from Persia. They were on the point of having everything going their way, as though their affairs were advancing toward improvement. But most did not even take notice. Amid an empire that had become so magnificent, they showed little improvement.
Jerusalem had only recently been delivered from subjugation. It might have been more reasonable for them to think, If the Persians tremble before this king now merely at his birth, wouldn't they tremble much more when he grows up? They would fear and obey him, and our situation might then be more glorious than that of the barbarians. Even if they knew nothing of mysteries or revelations but formed their judgments only on the basis of present self-interest, they surely might have thought along these lines. But nothing like this really occurred to them, so great was their dullness in prophecy and envy in human affairs.
Such dullness and envy must be rooted out of our minds. One must be more impassioned than fire to stand up against such an array. This is why Christ said, "I am come to send fire on earth, and how I wish it were already kindled." And the Spirit on this account appeared in fire.
— St. John Chrysostom
(347 - 407)


Source: "The Gospel of Matthew, Homily 6.4," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 22–23.

Epiphany: Follow the Light!

It is the Epiphany. It comes from the Greek word "epiphainen" which means to reveal or shine upon.  This day celebrates the main revelations of the person of Christ as God and man. The main times we see this are when the Magi visit Christ (Matthew 2:1-12) which we celebrate today, at the Baptism of Christ (Mark 1:9-11) when the Holy Spirit descends on Christ and God the Father reveals Christ as His only begotten Son; the next moment is at the Wedding of Cana (John 2:1-11) where Jesus performs His first miracle due to the intercession of His Mother Mary.  In this, her last recorded words are shown, "Do whatever He tells you."  Great advice from mom right?  

In the first reading, we read of Jerusalem being told to rise up in splendor, her light has come.  The glory of the Lord shines on her. Darkness covers the earth and thick clouds the people, but God shines through. This light is of course Jesus Christ the Lord (John 8:12)!  Our world is in so much darkness. Just recently, a horrific attack took place in Florida where a mentally ill young Latino shot and killed 5 and wounded others. This perpetrator is said to have been affected by the war in Iraq. Evil is never good. Violence is never good. These affect our psychology. Human beings were not made for violence. We are the only creatures on earth without physical defenses.  Other animals have claws, venom, quills, etc to defend themselves. We do not.

This is why we need Christ the light who illumines minds and hearts keeping us away from evil and violence. The light of the world is Christ and we need to seek Him.  We need to seek Him just like the Three Kings or Magi who came from Midian, Ephah and Sheba with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh did.  These gifts represent Christ's Royalty, Divinity and death as well as the theological virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity.  The Magi represent the "outsiders" or the Gentiles, Pagans and others who are outside of God's "Chosen People," Israel. They represent all the different races coming to meet the Christ child.  All nations will adore the Lord, as we read in today's responsorial Psalm.  God is king over all the earth.  All rulers will pay homage to Him just like the Magi did.  We are the Magi of today coming before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament offering our lives.  I have always loved the Magi. They were instrumental in my conversion because they were men of science who used the stars to find Christ.  In science, we can find God as well! God's creation points to God just like the star pointed to Christ (Job 12:7-10, Psalm 19:1-4, Romans 1:20). The late astronaut and first American in space John Glenn said after seeing the earth from space, "To look out at this kind of creation and not believe in God is to me impossible."

The magi found the Lord via the science of the stars, astronomy.  We know of their names as Balthazar, Gaspar and Melchior from the document Excerpta et Collectanea which is attributed to St. Bede who died in 735.  Their relics are in the cathedral in Cologne, Germany.  You can read another reflection I wrote here for January 6: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2017/01/3-kings-day-los-reyes-magos.htm. In it, I elaborate more on how the Magi represents all the outsiders. The second reading reminds us as well by telling us that Gentiles are also coheirs and part of the body of Christ.

Christ was born for all people of all races, genders, orientation, faiths; in every time and place. He is the Savior of all!  The Gospel tells us that great story.  Jesus was born in Bethlehem and the magi came from the east asking King Herod where the newborn king of the Jews was. Herod did not like this because he saw himself as the king of the Jews. He asked the magi to bring him the child so he too can adore Him. They found the child via the star and saw Mary with Him.  The magi prostrated themselves and paid homage to the child and gave Him the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh as prophesied in the first reading of today. Before departing, they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod.  They listened and returned home via a different route.

The Epiphany is an awesome celebration in our faith. Many cultures celebrate it as another Christmas. Kids put hay under their beds for the camels and wake up to find the hay missing and gifts in their place. Other cultures have feasts and other celebrations commemorating the visit of the magi.  To me, the magi represents all peoples outside of Israel and academia coming to worship the Lord.  This is my personal reflection. The stars and all of nature pays homage to God and leads us to admire Him via His creation. Just recently, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg announced that he is no longer an atheist (see more here: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2017/01/facebooks-mark-zuckerberg-no-longer.html).  Even in the darkness we see in the world today and the thick clouds that clouds the minds of atheists and others, God shines through.  Let us humbly seek Christ the Lord who is the light. Let us approach Him in the Tabernacle and Monstrance and adore Him.  The magi were the first to participate in adoration in my opinion. Let us imitate them!  Instead of bringing gifts of gold etc, we have to bring the gifts of our holiness, love and kindness to others.  We must offer Him our trials and suffering as well and united them to His passion.  O' come let us adore Him!

Please remember to help me with this ministry which is focused on reaching out to those in the dark.  Please be generous as the Magi were and consider donating or becoming a regular donor. Any amount is useful. God can do anything with any amount.  You can donate via Paypal or www.gofundme.com/sacerdotus.  God will reward you!  I have already received emails from donors who received many blessings just months after donating.  As soon as I get permission from them, I will share those emails.  I am not a business man nor investor so I rely on God's providence and how He inspires visitors and readers to donate.  Financial means is not the only way to help. You can pray and also volunteer your talents.  God bless you and Mary keep!  

Readings:  http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/010817.cfm


 

Here are more reflections from holy writers:

There is something more that must be understood about the gold, incense and myrrh. Solomon testifies that gold symbolizes wisdom when he says, "A pleasing treasure lies in the mouth of the wise." The psalmist bears witness to that incense which prayer offers to God when he says, "Let my prayer ascend as incense in your sight." The myrrh indicates the mortification of our bodies, of which the holy church speaks of its workmen who strive even unto death on behalf of God, "My hands dripped with myrrh."
And so do we too offer gold to the newborn king if we shine in his sight with the brightness of the wisdom from on high. We too offer him incense if we enkindle on the altar of our hearts the thoughts of our human minds by our holy pursuit of prayer, so as to give forth a sweet smell to God by our heavenly desire. And we offer him myrrh if we mortify the vices of our bodies by our self-denial.
Myrrh brings it about, as I have said, that dead bodies do not decompose. For a dead body to decompose is the same as for the human body of ours to become a slave to the decay of dissoluteness, as is said by the prophet: "The pack animals have decomposed in their own dung." This indicates fleshly minded persons who end their lives in the stench of dissoluteness. Therefore we are offering myrrh to God when we employ the spice of self-restraint to keep this earthly body of ours from decomposing through decadence.

— St. Gregory the Great
(540 - 604)


Source: "Forty Gospel Homilies, 10.6," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 28-29.

"Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him bring me word." Appropriately did Herod say, "Bring me word," for the one who hastens to come to Christ always brings a word of renunciation to the devil. When the priest says to the future Christian, "Do you renounce the devil?" the latter will answer, "I do renounce him." Properly therefore are the magi instructed to bring word to Herod, who realized he was taking the place of the devil. Satan knew how to corrupt a person.
"That I may come and worship him." He wants to lie but he cannot. He who feigned adoration will come that he might bow to abuse, kneel to inflict punishment, recline to do harm.… But when the clouds of treachery have passed, in the fair weather of emerging Christian faith, the magi behold again the star they had seen, preceding and leading them on. Finally they arrive at the most holy place of the Lord's birth.
— St. Peter Chrysologus
(380 - 450)



Source: "Sermons 158.8-9," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 25.

Since Herod was king, he was naturally afraid both for himself and for his children. But why was Jerusalem troubled? Surely the prophets had foretold him as the Savior, Benefactor and Deliverer who would come from above. But Jerusalem remained troubled by the same idolatrous affections that had previously caused them to turn from God precisely when God was pouring out his greatest benefits on them. While God was offering them new freedom, they were once again mindful only of the fleshpots of bondage in Egypt…
Although troubled, they nevertheless did not try to understand what was happening. They did not follow the wise men or even take any particular notice. To this extent were they both contentious and careless. This happened just when those in Jerusalem under Herod had reason to pride themselves that a king was being born among them. This had even attracted the attention of the wise from Persia. They were on the point of having everything going their way, as though their affairs were advancing toward improvement. But most did not even take notice. Amid an empire that had become so magnificent, they showed little improvement.
Jerusalem had only recently been delivered from subjugation. It might have been more reasonable for them to think, If the Persians tremble before this king now merely at his birth, wouldn't they tremble much more when he grows up? They would fear and obey him, and our situation might then be more glorious than that of the barbarians. Even if they knew nothing of mysteries or revelations but formed their judgments only on the basis of present self-interest, they surely might have thought along these lines. But nothing like this really occurred to them, so great was their dullness in prophecy and envy in human affairs.
Such dullness and envy must be rooted out of our minds. One must be more impassioned than fire to stand up against such an array. This is why Christ said, "I am come to send fire on earth, and how I wish it were already kindled." And the Spirit on this account appeared in fire.
— St. John Chrysostom
(347 - 407)


Source: "The Gospel of Matthew, Homily 6.4," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 22–23.