Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The Feast of the Epiphany draws us to the quiet yet radiant mystery of Christ revealed—not only to Israel, but to the whole world. Celebrated from the earliest centuries of the Church, Epiphany proclaims that the child born in Bethlehem is the Light for all peoples, a Savior whose mission knows no borders.
The word epiphany comes from the Greek epiphaneia, meaning “manifestation” or “appearing.” In the Western Church, this feast centers on the visit of the Magi, those wise men from the East who followed a star and found not a king enthroned in power, but a child laid in humility. In the Eastern Christian tradition, Epiphany also highlights the Baptism of the Lord, when the Father’s voice is heard and the Spirit descends. Together, these traditions remind us that God makes Himself known in concrete, visible ways—through history, through creation, and ultimately through His Son.
The Gospel for Epiphany (Matthew 2:1–12) is rich with symbolism. The Magi represent the nations, the seekers of truth who respond to the light they have been given. They are not members of the chosen people, yet they recognize what many in Jerusalem do not. Herod, for all his power, is threatened and fearful; the religious leaders know the Scriptures, yet do not move toward Bethlehem. The Magi, however, set out on a journey. They risk discomfort and uncertainty because they trust that the star is leading them somewhere meaningful.
Their gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—tell us who this child is. Gold honors Christ as King; frankincense acknowledges His divinity; myrrh foreshadows His suffering and death. Even at the cradle, the Cross is in view. Epiphany reminds us that the glory of Christ is inseparable from His self-giving love.
Historically, Epiphany was one of the great baptismal feasts of the Church. New Christians were welcomed into the faith as a sign that the light of Christ had reached new hearts and new lands. Over time, popular traditions developed around this feast: blessing homes with chalk, sharing Epiphany bread or king cake, and marking doors with the initials C+M+B—often associated with the names of the Magi, but also meaning Christus mansionem benedicat (“May Christ bless this home”). These practices are not quaint customs for their own sake; they are tangible ways of proclaiming that Christ desires to dwell with us, not only in church, but in our homes and daily lives.
Epiphany also carries a deeply personal message. Each of us is, in some way, a pilgrim like the Magi. We are given signs—moments of grace, questions that stir our hearts, encounters that awaken faith—and we must decide whether we will follow them. The journey is rarely straightforward. The Magi had to pass through confusion, political danger, and a change of direction. After encountering Christ, they returned home “by another way.” A true encounter with Jesus can change our path.
As we celebrate Epiphany, the Church invites us to ask: How is Christ being revealed to me now? Where is God asking me to step out in trust, to follow the light rather than remain where it is comfortable or familiar? And just as importantly, how is Christ being revealed through me to others?
The world still longs for light. In an age marked by division, anxiety, and distraction, Epiphany assures us that God has not remained hidden. He has drawn near, and His light still shines. May we, like the Magi, recognize Him, adore Him, and then carry that light back into our homes, our parish, and our world.
God bless,
Fr. Tom Lanza
Pastor, St. Matthias Parish & School