Buona Epifania

My parent's old, beat-up Nativity Scene is one of my most prized possessions

Ecce advénit Dominátor Dóminus: et regnum in manu ejus, et potéstas, et impérium. Psalm 71. 1 Dues, judícium tuum Regi da: et justítiam tuam Fílio Regis. V. Glória Patri. Ecce advénit Dominátor Dóminus.[1] 

As is our custom, at midnight I placed the Three Magi into our modest Christmas crèche. To "help me sleep," I had a shot of Liquor Strega then said my prayers and went bed. In the morning when I awoke, I discovered la Befana, the benevolent witch from Italian folklore, had visited and left me a few gifts and a lump of coal. I’m not sure what to make of this; was I good or bad this year? Perhaps I was suppose to leave a shot of Strega for the old crone?

Befana was just as generous as Babbo Natale (Father Christmas) this year

Either way, the gift basket overflowing with small creature comforts was very thoughtful and much appreciated. The presents will go a long way in easing the difficulties brought on by these miserable lockdowns. I look forward to sharing the wine, tea and liquor with venturesome guests, and will enjoy the books and CDs in blissful solitude.

I blessed my home and inscribed the initials over my doorways

After Mass, I returned home with my Epiphany water and blessed chalk and performed the traditional rite for the blessing of a home during Epiphanytide. For protection against evil and to bear witness to our faith, I inscribed the initials 20+C+M+B+22 over my doorways. The characters stand for the calendar year (i.e. 2022) and Christus Mansionem Benedicat, which means “Christ bless this house.” The letters also represent the traditional names of the Three Magi, Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar.

Buona Epifania and God Bless you all.

[1] Behold the Lord the Ruler is come: and the kingdom is in His hand, and power, and dominion. Psalm 71. 1 Give to the King Thy judgment, O God: and to the King’s Son Thy justice. V. Glory be to the Father. Behold the Lord the Ruler is Come. ~ Introit Malachias 3. 1; Paralipomena 29. 12