The Tradition
The Anglican tradition of ‘chalking the door’ of a church or home at/around Epiphany is a custom that marks the beginning of the Epiphany season, celebrating the revelation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles through the visit of the Magi. Chalking the doors is a visible sign of our welcome to Christ, and to all who enter our church , homes and our school. It invites God’s blessing into our lives, prompting us to reflect on God’s presence amongst us in the person of Jesus, and to share that message.
By chalking the entrance to the school, it is a way of bringing the church, community and school together. It means that all who enter are blessed, as part of making the light of Jesus known in our everyday lives.
Rev’d Edwina Fennemore said this simple prayer as she ‘chalked’ the doorway of Chagford Primary School:
“The wise men, Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar, followed the star of God’s Son who became human two thousand and twenty six years ago. May Christ bless our school and remain with us throughout this year. Amen.”
The doorway was marked with chalk: 20 + C + M + B + 26
She finished with this short prayer for home and community:
“Visit, Lord, we pray, this school with the joy of your presence. Bless all who work or visit here with the gift of your love.
Help us show your love to each other, and to make this a place of welcome and strength, of blessing and friendship.
May we grow in grace and in the knowledge and love of you; guide, comfort and strengthen us in peace, now and forever. Amen.