Sunday 3rd January 2016

Sunday of The Epiphany of The Lord
20+C+M+B+16
11am Sung Ordinariate Mass 
at St John Fisher Catholic Church
Home to the Southend Ordinariate Mission

Celebrant: Fr. Bob White


Epiphany Blessing:  Christus  mansionem  benedicat

Dear Friends
A very Happy and peaceful New Year to you all!
On this glorious feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, here again is the traditional blessing from the Roman Ritual with a little explanation of it.
Chalk the Epiphany Inscription Over the Doorway of the Home:-

20 + C + M + B + 16

The letters have two meanings. They are the initials of the traditional names of the Three Magi: Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar. They also abbreviate the Latin words Christus+ Mansionem + Benedicat. May Christ bless the house.” The letters recall the day on which the inscription is made, as well as the purpose of blessing.

The crosses represent the protection of the Precious Blood of Christ, Whose Sacred Name we invoke, and also the holiness of the Three Magi sanctified by their adoration of the Infant Christ.

The inscription is made above the front door, so that all who enter and depart this year may enjoy God's blessing. The month of January still bears the name of the Roman god Janus, the doorkeeper of heaven and protector of the beginning and end of things. This blessing "Christens" the ancient Roman observance of the first month. The inscription is made of chalk, a product of clay, which recalls the human nature taken by the Adorable and Eternal Word of God in the womb of the Virgin Mary, by the power of the Holy Spirit.

To bless your home this Epiphany, pray the Our Father, and ask that your home be blessed by the Holy Family this year of the Lord’s favour, 2016; then write the inscription for this year above your front door with blessed chalk.

With every blessing for 2016

Your Pastor and friend

Fr. Jeff

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