Wondering why we write on our doors every year around this time?

The chalking of the doors is a centuries-old practice throughout the world on homes, churches and places of worship.

The letters have two meanings. They first represent the initials Caspar, Malchior, and Balthazar — the Magi who came to visit Jesus in his own first home. They also abbreviate the Latin phrase, Christus mansionem benedicat: “May Christ bless the house.” The “+” signs represent the cross, and the “20” at the beginning and the “18” at the end mark the year. Taken together, this inscription is performed as a request for Christ to bless the home or building so marked and that he stay with those who visit there throughout the entire year.

May we all continue to be blessed throughout this year!