FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY

This Sunday we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany, which means "manifestation".  The Gospel reading tells of magi who followed a star from the East to find the Child Jesus. When they met and gave homage to the holy Child, It was an epiphany.  The God-Man, Jesus, manifested Himself to the world through these three men from foreign lands.  Traditionally, the Church recalls two other manifestations at this Epiphany season - the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan and the miracle at the Wedding Feast at Cana.  In each instance, Jesus is revealed as the beloved Son of God come to save the world.

Epiphany is also called "the Twelfth Day of Christmas" or "Little Christmas".   In many cultures, this (rather than Christmas) is the day for gift exchange, for like the three magi  we are gift-givers.   In the Eastern rites of the Church, water is blessed on this day, and it is a time for Baptisms.  It is also a custom for families to bless their homes with holy water and chalk, or to celebrate with an Epiphany cake.    If you would like to learn more about the ancient feast of the Epiphany and the customs associated with it, click on the links below to read the various articles.

Epiphany – the Twelfth Day of Christmas (“Little Christmas”)
Learn about the history of the celebration of Epiphany, and how it is celebrated in various parts of the world.

Epiphany and the Blessing of Water
Our brothers and sisters in the Byzantine rites of the Catholic Church celebrate Epiphany as a time for solemn blessing of water and for Baptism, much as during the Easter Vigil.

Epiphany and its Meaning in Today's World
Father John Foley, SJ reflects on the meaning of Jesus' epiphany, and its significance in our world today.

Epiphany - Customs and Practices

Reflection on the Feast of the Epiphany by ArchbishopDaniel Pilarczyk of Cincinnati

Epiphany – History and Celebration of the Feast in the Catholic Church

Celebrate the Feast with an Epiphany Cake