Epiphany traditions

Epiphany is celebrated 12 days after Christmas on January 6 and is the time when Christians remember the Wise Men, also referred to as the Three Kings or the Magi, who visited Jesus and brought him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.  It is also when some Churches remember Jesus’ baptism, when he was about 30, and started his preaching ministry.  Epiphany means “revelation” and both the visit of the Wise Men and his baptism are important times when Jesus was “revealed” to be very important.

The celebration of Epiphany varies from country to country.  In Spain, it is the day children’s presents are delivered by the Three Kings. In Italy, the presents are brought by an old lady called “Befana.”  She also fills their stocking by the fireplace.  In Belgium, children dress up as the three wise men and go from door to door to sing songs and receive money and sweets.

In Ireland, the celebration is called “Women’s Christmas.”  Traditionally the women get the day off and men do the housework and cooking.  Many countries enjoy special cakes that are decorated like crowns.  And in New Orleans, Epiphany/King’s Day is when Christmas decorations are taken down or at least the ornaments are replaced with purple, gold and green ones.  Family and friends enjoy a “King Cake” in which a little plastic baby doll is hidden inside.  Whoever gets the piece of cake with the baby must supply the cake next year!

We will celebrate the Epiphany on Sunday, January 5, a day known as Epiphany Eve or Twelfth Night.  For many, this is the traditional day to take down Christmas decorations.

Bill Wilds