The Tradition of the
Epiphany
The arrival of the New Year beckons an important religious celebration
that extends the magic of the Christmas season.
While some may think the
holiday season ends once
New Year’s Day comes
and goes, for Christians,
the season continues into
January with the feast of
the Epiphany. The Epiphany
occurs 12 days after
Christmas, which falls on
January 6 (or January 19
for some Orthodox churches
that celebrate Christmas on January 7). The Epiphany celebrates
the Three Kings, also known as the Three Wise Men, who visited
Jesus shortly after his birth.
The Epiphany is celebrated by Catholics and Orthodox Christians.
Among Hispanics, the day is known as El Día de los Reyes.
Many traditions are included in Epiphany celebrations. According to
the Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University, three historical
traditions of the Epiphany include baking a “Kings’ Cake,” marking a
door lintel with the Magi’s blessing, and participating in worship with
lighted candles. Some families also exchange gifts on the Epiphany
to commemorate the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh that the
Three Wise Men presented to Jesus upon arriving at the manger.
Chalking Doors
Celebrants of the Epiphany can mark their own doors, also called
“chalking the doors.” This tradition is a centuries-old practice that
serves as a request of Christ to bless the homes marked so that all
those who dwell inside remain blessed throughout the year. The marking
includes the first digits of the year, followed by the initials of the
Magi - Caspar, Malchior and Balthazar - followed by the last digits
of the year. For 2018 the formula should read: 20+C+M+B+18.
Others believe the letters represent the abbreviation of the Latin
phrase “Christus mansionem benedicat,” or “May Christ bless the
house.
King Cakes
King cakes vary by region. In Spain, local bakers make a special
ring-shaped roll. In France, it is a flat almond cake with a toy crown
cooked inside. In Mexico, bakers put a figure of Baby Jesus inside a
cake. The person who finds the figure is awarded the honor of baking
or providing the cake for the following year and hosting the Epiphany
celebration.
Lighting Candles
Individuals are urged to keep candles lit on the Epiphany. This is to
symbolize how Jesus’ presence on Earth was comparable to light
entering a darkened world.
Merry Christmas,
Happy Holidays &
Happy New Year!
Warm Regards,
18 Community Magazine December 2017