Gold, frankincense and myrrh, in memory of the three Wise Men: today, they will be brought to the altar during the presentation of the gifts of the Mess which closes the XX WYD. The offering of the gifts will also be attended by the so-called "Sternsinger" (the "singers of the star"). Since the XVI century, there has been a custom in Germany, Belgium and Holland, according to which around the Twelfth Night some Christians dress up as the three Wise Men and knock on all doors to announce the birth of Jesus. In Germany today, there are about 500,000 young people who announce this message, collect offerings for the children of the poor countries and write a blessing on to the door jambs: "Christ, bless this home". For over 40 years, the Children Aid Agency of Aachen and the German Catholic Youth Association have supported this work of the "singers of the star", who raised over 34 million euros last year.
