This weekend the Church celebrates the Feast of the Epiphany, the visit of the three magi to our Lord. Who are these mysterious visitors and why do they bring such odd gifts for a baby of gold, frankincense and myrrh? These visitors and their gifts are meant to reveal the glory of God, and ultimately reveal who Jesus is. St. Odilo of Cluny reminds us that gold demonstrates that Jesus is a king; truly the king of all kings. Frankincense shows that Jesus is divine, literally the word made flesh. Myrrh is an offering to foreshadow that Jesus will suffer and die for us to take away our sins. Although the names and the origins of the three kings are not known with certainty; we honor them traditionally as Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, from the known continents at the time of Christ of Europe, Asia and Africa. These kings manifest to us the glory of Jesus Christ, and help us to recall that Jesus came to save all of us as the light of the world. As our Christmas journey continues, may we truly rejoice at Christ the savior of all nations, and the king of our hearts.

Blessing of Homes… Traditionally, Catholics homes have been blessed on the Feast of the Epiphany with a special blessing in honor of the visit of the magi to Jesus. At our Masses this weekend, we will have available blessed chalk and Epiphany holy water for you and your family to take and bless your home. Above the door and on the lintels of your doorway and windowsills, you are encouraged to write “20+ C + M + B + 25.” The 2025 refers to the year, and the C, M, and B refer to the initials of the magi-Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar. However, in Latin, this is also short for “Christus mansionem     benedicat,” which means “May Christ bless this dwelling.” It is always a great practice to have your home blessed and dedicated to God. Please keep this tradition going and allow Christ to be with you in this new year.
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