Christmas Tree
A Christmas tree is a tree that is decorated as part of the celebration of Christmas. They are usually an evergreen tree and, as such, are a symbol of the immortality Jesus possesses and will bring to us. Christmas trees are usually decorated with lights, symbolizing the light that Jesus brought to the world with His birth.
Nativity Scene
A nativity scene (also known as a manger scene, crib, or crèche) is an exhibition of art objects representing the birth of Jesus that is traditionally displayed during the Christmas season.
Epiphany House Blessing
An Epiphany tradition is to use chalk blessed at the Masses for Epiphany to bless one’s home in the New Year. Even if blessed chalk isn’t available, you can still celebrate this ritual.
- Use chalk to write the following above the front door of your home: 20+C+M+B+XX (XX=the last two numbers of the current year). The numbers represent the current year; the letters represent the three Magi-Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar-and the prayer Christus Mansionem Benedicat, which is Latin for “May Christ bless this house.
- Then pray The Blessing of the Home and Household on Epiphany.
Epiphany King Cake
A popular Epiphany tradition in many cultures, King Cake is a sweet cake in which a small figure of a baby is hidden. Searching for the baby in the cake imitates the Magi’s search for the baby Jesus.
- Read about the King Cake tradition on Aleteia.org.
- Make a King Cake. Here is a simple recipe on Catholic Icing that uses canned cinnamon rolls. This is a more traditional recipe from Catholic Cuisine.
St. Anthony Catholic Church 