What is Epiphany?

The 12th day after Christmas – Jan. 6 – is called The Feast of the Epiphany and it marks the end of the Christmas season. The Night before Epiphany is called “Twelfth Night”. The mood of Epiphany season is one of proclamation and growth. The color of the season is green, symbolizing that growth.

What does Epiphany mean? It comes from the Greek word for “manifestation”, “appearance” or “showing forth.” The festive feast of Epiphany celebrates God’s inclusive love for all the world as revealed in Jesus Christ, “made manifest” through His life and teachings.

On Epiphany, Christians celebrate the arrival of the Magi – three Kings from the East who followed the Star of Bethlehem and brought gifts to the baby Jesus born in a manger. The Christmas story of the visit of the wise men tells of Jesus as the light for the whole world, whose birth was good news to all people. We search for Him in our lives just as the magi did in theirs. Remember that the best gift that the wise men brought was the gift of themselves. They kept on searching until they found Jesus in their lives. Thus their hope became reality.

Their names, according to tradition, were Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar. Here is an activity you can do at home – decorate a banner over your front door with these Blessing Symbols of the Magi (their initials): 20 + C + M + B + 14 and copy this EPIPHANY BLESSING: God of wondrous light, by a star you led the wise men to your newborn son. Give us your light so that we can see to follow where you lead and live always in the joy of your abundant blessing. Through Jesus Christ, the light of the world.

Wishing you all peace and happiness in 2014, Beverly Dillaway, DRE

An Epiphany Prayer

God of the Universe,

Our dreams keep us going and help us to rise above everyday problems, to keep our eyes on you and all that is good.

Help us to follow your star in our dreams, and to give you the gift of ourselves every day of our lives.

Thank you for dreams and stars and all that you have given us to help us to follow you.

Amen.