every 6 January

Epiphany means the appearance of the Ruler.

Western churches remember the wise men from the East. They honour the newborn Jesus as a king.

The Eastern Churches commemorate the baptism of Jesus with the revelation of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This is the moment when Jesus reveals himself to the world as the Saviour (appears – Epiphany).

Epiphany means the presence of God in the person of Jesus Christ. Depending on the region and church, the birth of Jesus is commemorated with the adoration of the Jewish shepherds, the adoration of the wise men (Matthew 2), his baptism and his first miracle at the wedding feast in Cana (John 2:1-11).

Epiphany and the birth of Christ were originally celebrated on 6 January. The 6th of January was considered the beginning of the year, marking the end of the depths of winter.

The presence of God in our lives is a central element of faith. Paul writes in Colossians 1:27: “Christ in you, the hope of glory”.

Paul Gerhardt (1607-1676) wrote in a hymn: “How shall I receive you and how shall I meet you?” God’s coming is not a story of the past or an expectation of the distant future. It is a present experience that makes life possible in spite of all inner and outer difficulties.