20 + C + M + B + 25

One of LAC's new-ish missionaries is the LCMS's foremost expert on house blessings, having written his doctoral thesis on the topic. When the Rev. Dr. Ross Shaver posted the following on Facebook on January 6, then, I was his eager first taker: 

'Tis is the season of Epiphany and the traditional time of year for a house blessing. This is a salutary and ancient Christian tradition that every pastor can and should utilize in his pastoral care of souls. This topic is near and dear to my heart as I did my doctoral dissertation on it several years ago now. If anyone would like to know more, or have your house blessed, contact your pastor or message me for more information. 

I'd held a house blessing in May 2019, a few months after moving in, but after moving back in in May 2023 following an almost two year hiatus...I relished the idea of inviting Christ into my space once again. 

We did the opening - doubling up with the common AND Epiphany options for certain readings and prayers - in my living room, then began our walkaround. There was a prayer and a reading, which we took turns doing, for each stop: living room...

entryway...

bedroom (pictured)...guest room..."study" (other guest room/office)...kitchen/dining room.

To conclude, Ross chalked my door! I look up at the title rebus each time I walk out now.

The year brackets three letters, which can stand for the traditional names of the Magi (Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar) OR a Latin phrase meaning May Christ bless this house (Christus mansionem benedicat). According to custom, homes may be blessed annually. I already told Ross he's invited back next January to change the "25" to a "26."

Me being me, we shared a meal afterwards, and when 2 yr. old Easton decided to chalk my WALLS...we were all grateful it washed off with water :)

Until next time, blessings in Christ!