Every Jan. 6, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Epiphany. It's the Gospel passage in which the Wise Men, or Magi, from the East follow a star to Bethlehem to honor the newborn Jesus.
POPE FRANCIS
January 6, 2019
'Epiphany: this word indicates the manifestation of the Lord, who, as Saint Paul tells us in the second reading, makes himself known to all the nations, today represented by the Magi. In this way, we see revealed the glory of a God who has come for everyone: every nation, language and people is welcomed and loved by him.'
The Magi don't show up empty-handed. They give Jesus three gifts: gold, frankincense and myrrh.
POPE FRANCIS
January 6, 2019
Gold, the most precious of metals, reminds us God has to be granted first place; he has to be worshiped. Then there is frankincense, which symbolizes a relationship with the Lord, prayer, which like incense rises up to God. Myrrh, the ointment that would be lovingly used to wrap the body of Jesus taken down from the cross.'
It's a tradition that takes on different forms in different cultures around the world that celebrate it each year.
CT
