Munich, January 8 – A visit from Epiphany Singers to a monastery in Munich yesterday evening resulted in a fire alarm and a subsequent response from the fire department. The cause of the alarm was determined to be the incense used during the traditional blessing, which activated the building’s smoke detectors.
Harmless Alarm, Blessed Outcome
The Munich fire department was alerted to the monastery after its fire alarm system was triggered. Upon arrival, firefighters detected a distinct scent of incense, providing an immediate clue to the unusual situation. A monastery employee confirmed that Epiphany Singers had just completed their annual blessing, during which incense is burned.
Authorities quickly ascertained that there was no actual fire or danger. The incident was classified as a false alarm caused by the ceremonial smoke. The fire department noted that the visit from the Epiphany Singers, also known as ‘Sternsinger’ in German, is a cherished tradition where children dress as the Three Wise Men and go from house to house, singing songs and blessing homes.
Firefighters Request ‘Divine Assistance’
In a lighthearted turn of events, the firefighters, finding the four Epiphany Singers still nearby, requested a blessing for their own operations in the coming year. The singers graciously obliged, performing a short ceremony with verses and incense. To prevent a repeat of the earlier incident, this second blessing was conducted outdoors.
This incident highlights the potential for modern fire detection systems to react to traditional practices, even those as benign as burning incense. Fortunately, the situation was resolved swiftly and with good humor, leaving no damage and a memorable story for both the monastery and the fire department.
Background on Epiphany Singers
The tradition of Epiphany Singers is widespread in Germany and other German-speaking countries. Children, often dressed as the Three Wise Men (Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar), go door-to-door between December 27 and January 6 (Epiphany). They sing songs, collect donations for charitable projects, and bless homes by writing the inscription ‘C+M+B’ along with the year above the entrance. This inscription traditionally stands for ‘Christus Mansionem Benedicat’ (Christ bless this house).
The donations collected by the Epiphany Singers primarily support children’s aid projects in developing countries. The campaign is organized by the German Catholic Youth Association and the ‘Kindermissionswerk Die Sternsinger’.
Similar Incidents and Prevention
While unusual, incidents of smoke detectors being triggered by incense or similar ceremonial smoke are not unheard of. Modern fire alarm systems are highly sensitive and designed to detect even small amounts of smoke particles. In such cases, it is important for occupants to be aware of the cause and, if possible, to ventilate the area or temporarily disable the alarm if a controlled use of smoke is planned, provided local regulations allow for it.
The Munich fire department reiterated the importance of fire safety and proper ventilation, especially when using materials that produce smoke indoors. They also praised the quick and professional response of the monastery staff and the understanding shown by all parties involved.
The event serves as a charming anecdote, underscoring the intersection of tradition and modern safety measures, and reminding everyone of the peaceful and benevolent intentions behind the Epiphany Singers’ visit.
Source: [traunsteiner-tagblatt.de](https://www.traunsteiner-tagblatt.de/region/nachrichten-aus-bayern_artikel,-weihrauch-von-sternsingern-sorgt-fuer-feueralarm-im-kloster-_arid,975021.html)
