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Additional Advent and Christmas Resources
Epiphany
Background information for grown-ups
Epiphany is celebrated as the time when the Magi from the East visited Jesus. It may have been a few days or even a few years after Jesus was born before the Magi met him. Traditionally, Epiphany is celebrated on January 6th. Many churches celebrate it on the Sunday it is closest to. You can learn more about the background of the book of Matthew from the Bible Project. You can also read this article from Building Faith about how children may understand Epiphany and additional ideas for your family.
Bible Story
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Read the story of the Magi (also known as the Three Kings) in Matthew 2:1-12 or in your favorite story Bible.
- Wonder about the story together:
- I wonder if the magi were surprised that the newborn king was in an ordinary house.
- I wonder what Mary and Joseph thought when the Magi visited with expensive gifts.
- I wonder what made the Magi decide to go another way.
- I wonder if you can think of a time when you were filled with joy.
- I wonder if you have ever given or received a gift and how you felt about giving or receiving.
Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for the Magi! Thank you for their perseverance and joy to see the baby Jesus. Help us to be filled with joy when we see special people or things. Help us to share Jesus’ love with those we meet each day. (Add your own celebrations or requests here if desired.) Amen.
Activities
Choose one or more of the activities to do with your family to explore the birth of Jesus! Since you may be celebrating Christmas differently this year, be gentle with yourselves and your family.
- Chalk the door – Learn about the tradition of chalking the door on January 5th, the eve of Epiphany. It’s a way of marking homes and asking for God’s blessing for the new year.
- Make Star Cookies
- Make a craft
Videos
Books
Music
Epiphany Playlist
Check out this Spotify playlist for Epiphany!