Bring Back Epiphany!

The feast of the Epiphany (always January 6), is often over looked in Western Christianity as a quiet postlude to Christmas. The major message of Epiphany is the manifestation of Christ to the world. In the West we remember the arrival of three wise men to the home of Mary and Joseph. Here was manifested Jesus’ future identity as the King of all peoples, not only of Jews, but of Gentiles as well.

Historically, Epiphany also recalls Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River. Here His identity as the second person of the Trinity was manifested when the dove descended from the heavens and God the Father declared, “This is my beloved son, listen to Him” (Mark 9:7).

There are a variety of wonderful home customs associated with Epiphany, many of which we have forgotten about. Choose one or two for you and/or your family to observe this year:

-          House blessings: Traditionally Christians would invite their parish priest to come and bless their home annually around the feast of the Epiphany.

-          Epiphany cake: Different cultures have special cakes that they would traditionally make during Epiphany. One related custom is the placing of an Epiphany ring inside the cake. Whoever finds the ring is declared “Epiphany King or Queen” for the rest of the day.

-          Epiphany Pageant: You can act out the story of the three wise men with your family or friends. A great custom to introduce if you have children in the home.  

-          Blessing of Water: In recognition of Jesus’ baptism churches often bless holy water and make it available during Epiphany.

-          Read Matthew 2:1-12: This recounts the visit of the three wise men.

-          Parish Epiphany Parties: Some churches have begun the custom of hosting Epiphany parties where parishioners gather in each other’s homes for fellowship.

-          Attend an Epiphany Service: Remember it’s always January 6.

For more details about some of these and other Epiphany customs click here or here.

Wishing you a Blessed Epiphany,