Chalking the Doorway - A New Year Tradition

Home » News Articles » Chalking the Doorway
Chalking the Door

The practice of writing on doorways has a long history. Back in Deuteronomy 6:9, (just after the Ten Commandments), Moses used it to help the Israelites remember. It also brought to mind the Passover, when the blood of the lamb was splashed on the doorposts as a sign that all inside were under God's protection.

In Christian tradition, there is a custom of blessing homes on the Feast of the Epiphany (6 January) when the family gather to ask God's blessing on their home and family life

So here's a lovely traditional practice to mark our homes as places of God's blessing and presence — chalking your doorway with symbols that remind us of God's guidance and provision. After the year that has gone, I like the idea of being reminded of God's care every time I walk through my front door.

It is simple, quick, great for all ages and traditions, and very Covid-safe. (One day we won't have to say that.) Yet it is also a profound ritual, which can help many whose homes have been places of confinement, stress, loss or anxiety in 2020. It can help us to look to the new year with God's presence, resting in his care.

You may also be interested in

Lenten Reflections
Prayer & Worship: Thu 16 Mar

This year we are offering a Daily Reflections for the 40 weekday's that make up Lent and Holy Week.Interestingly, Sundays aren't counted as part of the 40 days — because Sunday is always a feast day!Using the lectionary readings set for each day there will be a picture, reflection and prayer.These can be used as an individual devotion or a 'jumping off' starter for sharing...

New Beginings
HAEBEA News

On 1 September 2023 Bishop's Stortford Circuit and the Herts and Essex Border Ecumenical Area will officially come together to form the new Herts and Essex Border Ecumenical Area! It will be composed of thirteen churches including four URCs, two Local Ecumenical Projects, seven Methodist churches and be staffed by three Methodist presbyters, 1½ URC ministers, a full-time administrator...

Roydon Spring Fair 2023
Community Events

Saturday 1 April 202310.00am — 1.00pmYou are warmly invited to come along to the Annual Spring Fair at Roydon URC which is to be held on Saturday 1 April between 10am and 1pm.There will be lots of stall and refreshments on offer too, and there is plenty parking at the church.Entrance is FREE!So, put the date in your diary...We look forward to welcoming you.Roydon United...

© 2012 - 2023 Herts and Essex Border Ecumenical Area

Methodist, United Reformed Church and Anglican Churches in Partnership