Celebrating the Epiphany

January 6 is traditionally the day the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Epiphany. It is the twelfth night. This day is marked by the visit of the Magi to Jesus in the manger delivering gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These seemingly odd gifts are representative of Jesus' kingship, priesthood, and death. Gold was reserved for kings. Frankincense was used by priests. Myrrh was an ointment used for burials.

This feast is a reminder that the Kingdom of God is open to all. The Magi were not part of the Jewish faithful, but still worshipped the Baby Jesus with the gifts they had. It is also a reminder that my gifts are not mine, but meant to be given to Jesus.

I love celebrating feast days because faith is meant to be celebrated. There are so many beautiful saints and stories that need to be remembered, embraced, celebrated, and then modeled.

On the Feast of the Epiphany in South Louisiana, we also open King Cake Season. It runs from January 6 until Mardi Gras day. In honor of the Epiphany, tonight I am hosting a king cake tasting. Using a recipe from a beloved aunt, I made 3 king cakes- cream cheese, pecan amaretto, and boudin with pepper jack. Tonight we will celebrate well because life and faith are meant to be celebrated. I share the gift of baking with people I love and so share the love and life of Jesus and the Magi.