Epiphany 2025

And suddenly the star they had seen rising went forward and halted over the place where the child was. The sight of the star filled them with delight, and going into the house they saw the child with his mother Mary, and falling to their knees they did him homage. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:9-11 

Since January 6th fell on a Monday this year, The Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord was celebrated in the Catholic church yesterday on January 5th.  As I told my friends yesterday, I’m kind of a purist for this season and dislike it when the Church moves these feasts out of (what I see) is convenience.  

This year, however, the timing of this feast observance was perfect had been a tough weekend for our family. My father-in-law, Bill, passed away on December 17th. We attended his wake and funeral Mass this past Friday and Saturday. The days were a mixture of sadness and beautiful recollections of memories shared by other family members and friends.  

Coming from those solemn couple of days into Mass this morning, it was refreshing to sing hymns of light and joy. They included We Three Kings of Orient Are along with What Child is This, The First Nowell and Joy to the World. Shout out to the pianist, Spencer, for that terrific list.  

January 6 marks The Epiphany, also known as the “Holy Light of the Manifestations.” 

The Epiphany recalls the visit of the Magi, the three wise men, to the Christ Child in Bethlehem. It is also about the revelation of the Jesus Christ to everyone who is in darkness. This day is a reminder that anyone can choose to follow the light of Christ, to follow in his ways and share His love with those around them. 

The Epiphany celebration was originally observed in the Eastern Church in 361 AD. It began as a commemoration of the birth of Christ with other events added later. These include the visit of the Magi, the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and Jesus’ first miracle at the wedding in Cana (transubstantiation of water into wine). 

I am not quite ready to close the Christmas season this year. Many years I am ready to pack up most of our ornaments, snowmen, Santas and nativities after Epiphany. But this year, I am going to leave them all up a bit longer to let their light shine through our home during these dark winter days. I know I do not need the decorations to keep the Christmas spirit and light alive but I will enjoy extending their time to be on display for a bit longer! 

Until next time, Karen 

We three kings of Orient are
Bearing gifts we traverse afar.
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star. 

#epiphany
#ChristmasSpirit
#enjoythedecor