What is Epiphany?

In the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), Epiphany is a church festival and season (Jan 6 to Lent) celebrating the revelation of Jesus as God's Son, beginning with the Magi's visit, marking Christ's manifestation to the Gentiles, and extending to his baptism and first miracle, symbolizing God's light shining into the world through Christ for all people. It's a time of "showing forth" Jesus' divine identity and mission, moving from the humble Nativity to His greater glory, and invites believers to see God's presence in everyday life.

Key Meanings in the ELCA:

• Manifestation/Revelation: The word "Epiphany" (from Greek epiphania) means "appearance" or "manifestation," highlighting Jesus being shown to the world as God's Son.

• The Magi's Visit (January 6th): The core event is the arrival of the wise men from the East, who recognized Jesus as King and God, bringing gifts symbolizing his kingship (gold), divinity (frankincense), and future suffering (myrrh).

• A Season of Light: The season after January 6th (until Lent) focuses on the unfolding revelation of Jesus' identity, including his baptism (where God declares him Son) and his first miracle at Cana (revealing his glory).

• God's Universal Love: It emphasizes that God's saving grace in Christ is for all people, not just the Jewish people, as shown by the Gentile Magi coming to worship.

• Personal Revelation: It also serves as a reminder for personal "epiphanies"—sudden insights or illuminations into God's grace and the world's potential.

In essence, Epiphany is the church's way of celebrating the dazzling "showing forth" of God's glory in the person of Jesus Christ, making him known to all nations and calling believers to see and follow that light.