The Celebration of Epiphany- the visitation of the Magi

Thanks to the Stewardship Committee for preparing these activities.

Book reading of Christmas in the Barn on our Parish Youtube Channel


 

GUIDING STARS

AN EPIPHANY FAMILY ACTIVITY

 

The Feast of the Epiphany, January 6, is the official end of the twelve days of Christmas. Many Christians celebrate this day by remembering the journey of the Magi (Wise Men), and reflecting on how they found Baby Jesus in Bethlehem by following a brilliant star. This activity allows each family member to pick out a star that will guide them through the coming year.

 

Activity Preparation:  Ahead of time make 20 paper stars, each labeled with one of the inspiring words listed below.  Have a basket or box large enough to hold all the stars.

Grace, Mercy, Love, Faithfulness, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Joy, Blessings,

 Hope, Compassion, Friendship, Song, Generosity, Time, Humility, Forgiveness, Prayer, Wisdom, Beauty.

 

1. On January 6, the family gathers before a Christmas crèche or a picture of the Nativity.  Place the stars face down in the basket/box.  Read aloud from Matthew 2:10-12, then say

“This is a story about how the Magi came to Jesus and brought him gifts.   They found Jesus by following a special star.  Today we are going to pick out our own stars to guide us toward holiness in the year to come.  Each of us will pick one star from the basket/box, and the word on that star will be a special focus to help us grow closer to Jesus during the coming year.  We will not share our guide word until next Epiphany, January 6, 2022.  At that time we will share how our ‘Star Word’ helped us to grow spiritually over the past year, and pick a new star for the New Year.”  

 

Note:  Younger family members may need help reading and understanding their word. 

 

2.  Spend a silent moment thinking about the meaning of your word, and how focusing on it can help you to be closer to Jesus in the coming year.  The family can then sing a Christmas carol such as “Away in a Manager” or “Silent Night.”  End this celebration by offering a prayer for a blessed New Year.

 

BONUS CELEBRATION

 

           As weather and safety allow, take a family star-gazing walk during Epiphany week.  If possible, go to a park or other area with minimal artificial lighting.  Look up at the stars, giving thanks and praise to their Creator.  Reflect on how God is still guiding all of us today, and vow to be open to this guidance during 2021.  Find the brightest star in the sky, and feel the joy and wonder of God’s love as the Magi experienced it worshipping Jesus in Bethlehem at the first Christmas.