Epiphany of the Lord

My Dear Parishioners,
 
Today we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord. This feast is traditionally observed on the 12th day of Christmas, January 6th, but with the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council now shifts to the Sunday closest to January 6th. This feast is also known as “Little Christmas” or “Three Kings Day”. This day marks the visit of the Magi, Gentiles from the East who came to worship the Christ Child. As the Gospel writer Matthew tells us they were guided to the Lord by following the light of the star which brought them to Bethlehem.
 
Like the Magi, we too are on a journey which will conclude when we come before the Lord. The GOSPEL is the light which we are called to follow as we make our way to Him. The Gospel illumines our path as we meet the poor, encounter the sick and find ourselves in company with the suffering. Our response to all those we come in contact with during our life is what will be used to determine whether we will be with the Lord forever or in everlasting torment (Matthew, chapter 25).
 
Because of the way in which Christmas fell this year, tomorrow we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord in the Jordan. In other years this observance is commemorated on the Sunday after Epiphany. Tuesday begins Ordinary Time with next Sunday being the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time. This week our church interior Christmas decorations will be taken down. The outdoor crèche will remain up until February 2nd, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple. This is an ancient tradition which commemorates Christmas for 40 days.
 
As I recall the gifts given to the Child Jesus by the Magi I am reminded of the generosity which we in the rectory received from many of you. So, again and again, THANK YOU to all those who remembered us at Christmas. Be assured that YOU will be remembered by me, Father Marcin and Father Mateusz as we celebrate the Holy Mass.
 
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Father Zig