Solemnity of the Epiphany

January 7, Solemnity of the Epiphany

The Three Magi (The Nativity Story version)
by Lancen Crisostomo 14 yrs. old Catholic Homeschooler in Hawaii

Three Magi set on a journey to a land so far,
They were Melchior, Balthasar and cynical Gaspar.
They traveled through vast deserts so dry,
While following a star high in the sky.
In the end their journey was not in vain,
And Melchior showed his friends he was sane,
For in a manger laid a small child,
At his side was his mother Mary, the tender and mild.


Epiphany is a large celebration, especially in Spanish speaking countries. Things look different around the household: the infant Jesus in the manger now has a small gold crown and is wearing regal robes. The figures of the wise men have reached Bethlehem, completing the nativity scene.

The Church extends itself on Epiphany to the homes of the faithful. The custom of blessing the home on this day probably originated from these words in the Gospel, "And entering into the house, they found the Child with Mary, His Mother, and falling down they adored Him." The priest blesses the house if he can be present, but if not, the father of the family may do so.