Today is the Solemnity of the Epiphany, commemorating three events: the manifestation of Christ to the Magi, the Baptism of our Lord, and the miracle at Cana. The celebration traces its roots to the 3rd Century in the Eastern Church, but it quickly spread to the West. Traditionally, churches will bless Epiphany water on the vigil of the feast in a ceremony that includes special exorcism prayers over the water, the litany of saints, and other prayers, hymns, and psalms. Many regional and family traditions sprung up around the feast as well, including “king cake”, a “twelfth night of Christmas party”, and the Italian tradition of La Befana.
CHALLENGE
One Epiphany tradition is the blessing of the lintel of a family’s house. This is done with blessed chalk, and there is a specific way to do this. If you don’t already have some, get some chalk and have it blessed, then gather your family and bless your house.
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