The Feast of the Epiphany of Our Lord

Epiphany is celebrated on the Sunday between January 2 and January 8. The feast of the Epiphany of Our Lord commemorates when Jesus Christ was revealed as the Messiah. The Gospel of Matthew recounts that three wise men from the East visited our savior after his birth and acknowledged him with gifts representing kingship, priesthood, and death.

The readings for the Feast of the Epiphany of Our Lord tell of the revelation of Jesus Christ to all people. The first reading (Isaiah 60:1-6) tells of a light in Jerusalem which all nations are drawn to. The psalm (Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13) proclaims “Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.” The second reading (Ephesians 3:2-3A, 5-6) tells how God’s grace is now known to all generations and the whole world. The gospel (Matthew 2:1-12 ) tells how the Magi came from afar to worship the child Jesus. It also recounts Herod’s jealousy and treachery.

A discussion of what gifts we could bring to the service of the Lord is appropriate. Also, the international aspect of the three Kings speaks to our common humanity and issues such as racism and immigration. Here are some ideas for youth ministry, classroom use, or in the home.

Have a Birthday Party for Jesus

Teach your young friends about Jesus at a birthday party in his honor! You can do this as a Christmas or Epiphany activity. We had our high school students plan and run the party for their young siblings, nieces, nephews, and neighbors.

I Gotta Go Game (for Youth Ministry)

This game is really funny and teens love it. It looks like a kid trying to get to the bathroom "in time". Use it for fun or with a youth group meeting focused on babies or pro-life issues or even Advent or Christmas.

Christmas Shopping with the Four Wise Men

There's always a lot of stressing this time of year about Christmas shopping. But imagine trying to come up with the perfect gift for our savior. How did the wise men handle it? Watch this video skit.

Follow That Star – Discussion and Reflection Questions

This reflection on the Epiphany will help youth understand that following Jesus means giving our whole selves over to him and leaving behind anything which is hindering us.

Celebrating a Merry Catholic Christmas: A Guide to the Customs and Feast Days of Advent and Christmas

This book by Father William Saunders is a resource to learn about Catholic traditions related to Advent and Christmas. It also gives you practical ways to practice these traditions in your home. It covers the liturgical event  from the beginning of the Advent season through Candlemas (Feb 2).

Where Is the Newborn King of the Jews? (Video)

This video from Holy Heroes tells of the visit of the Magi to bring gifts to Jesus, which is the gospel for the Epiphany of the Lord. A coloring sheet and Mass quiz are also available for each week. Use these to prepare for Sunday Mass at home or for Children's Liturgy of the Word.

We Are Led by Faith, Like the Magi

"Like the Magi, believers are led by faith to seek God in the most hidden places, knowing that the Lord waits for them there. " - Pope Francis

Rise Up in Splendor

Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you. See, darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds cover the peoples; but upon you the LORD shines, and over you appears his glory.

Contemplating the Baby Jesus

Contemplating the Baby Jesus, with His humble and infinite love, let us say to Him, very simply: “Thank you for doing all this for me!” - Pope Francis

We Have Been Waiting…

"The Magi set out because of a deep desire which prompted them to leave everything and begin a journey. It was as though they had always been waiting for that star." – Pope Benedict XVI

Feast of the Epiphany: Life Teen Summit Reflection

In this video from Life Teen, Joel Stepanek helps us understand the readings for the Feast of the Epiphany. Does the light of Christ shine in us so brightly so that others can see it?