FATHER JIM'S JOTS - St. Elizabeth Catholic Church - Feast of the Epiphany - January 4, 2026

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church

Feast of the Epiphany

January 4, 2026

FATHER JIM'S JOTS

Greetings,

Today we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord!  Epiphany has several meanings, including "manifestation" or "sudden insight."  In the context of the feast, it means that the God-man Jesus Christ was manifested to the world, as represented by the Magi and different peoples from whom they came.

On the feast of the Epiphany, many Catholics bless their homes by writing the letters C, M and B and the numbers of the year on the top of their front door frame with chalk.

For example, for the year 2026, it would look like this:  20 + C + M + B + 26.

This combination of letters and numbers holds a special meaning.  The initials have two meanings.  Historically, they refer to the names traditionally attributed to the Magi:  Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar.  Spiritually, they refer to the blessing itself, represented by the Latin prayer:  "Christus, mansionem benedicat" (May Christ Bless this house); the crosses recall our salvation in Christ.

There are many ways to celebrate Epiphany.  There are traditions such as the one above, eating king cakes, special prayers and most importantly, going to Mass.  Click HERE to view the entire prayer for blessing your home and household on Epiphany from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.  In this new year, we pray for peace in our world, safety for youth and children as they return to school and for unity in our communities.

Blessings,

Fr. Jim, Pastor

~ Definition for Epiphany from etwn.com

~ Image Source