On Friday, January 5, Mater Christi School celebrated the age-old Catholic tradition of “chalking the doors” in honor of Epiphany, also known as Twelfth Night, Theophany, or Three Kings Day. This special event, led by Mr. Moore and our Grade 4 students. Epiphany is a significant day in the Catholic calendar, commemorating the visit of the Magi — Caspar, Malchior, and Balthazar — to the infant Jesus. This event symbolizes the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles. At MCS, we celebrate this day not just as a historical event, but as a living part of our faith and tradition.

This year,  our Grade 4 students participated in the ritual of chalking the doors. Guided by Mr. Moore, they wrote a specific formula above the entrance of our school buildings. For 2024, the inscription read: 20 + C + M + B + 24. This marking is rich in symbolism: the initials of the three wise men and the Latin phrase “Christus mansionem benedicat,” which means “May Christ bless the house.” The “+” signs represent the cross, and the numbers denote the current year.

The students chalked the doors of the elementary school, middle school, and the convent building. This solemn yet joyous procession was a poignant reminder of our community’s faith and unity. Mr. Moore, with his usual blend of reverence and warmth, led the students in prayer and the ritual of chalking.During this time, we also burned frankincense, a traditional symbol of worship and an homage to one of the gifts brought by the Magi. The aroma filled the air, creating a sensory reminder of the sacredness of the day.

At MCS, we believe in the power of traditions to enrich our faith and community spirit. The chalking of the doors, though less known in the United States, is a simple yet profound tradition. It is a way for us to dedicate our year to God, seeking His blessings for our homes, our school, and all who dwell or visit here.

As we step into 2024, this beautiful tradition of chalking the doors stands as a request for Christ to bless our school and stay with us throughout the year. It is a reminder of our commitment to faith, learning, and community – values that are at the heart of Mater Christi School.

We look forward to a year filled with learning, growth, and the ever-present grace of God. May our doors, chalked with faith and blessings, be a symbol of the welcoming spirit and the nurturing environment that MCS embodies.