December 29, 2016 WBB Feast Days & Holidays, WBB Advent & Christmas, REL Seasons - Advent/Christmas, REL Asset - Activity, REL Catechetical - K–6
By: Allie Johnston
On the second Sunday after Christmas, the Church will celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. The traditional date of Epiphany is January 6, but in the United States it is celebrated on the Sunday between January 2 and January 8. This year, Epiphany is celebrated on January 8.
Epiphany is one of the many important feasts during the Christmas season. At Epiphany, the Church celebrates the manifestation of the Son of God as the Savior and Messiah. We recall the visit of the Magi to the newborn Jesus: “And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” (Matthew 2:9–12) The epiphany, or showing, of Jesus teaches us that Jesus’ coming into the world was important to the whole world and that the Good News of Jesus Christ is meant for everyone!
Since a star guided the magi to the place where Jesus was, this Epiphany Activity features a star on which children write ways they can be a light to others. The activity is ideal for children in the primary and intermediate grades to prepare to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord.
To plan and implement the Epiphany Activity, you will need the following materials:
- A copy of the activity sheet for each child
- Pencil for each child
- Wallet-sized photo of each child
- Art materials including glitter and glue; scissors
Distribute the activity sheets. Have children cut out and affix their photos in the stars as instructed. If you’d prefer not to use photos, the children may draw a self-portrait instead. Ask children to brainstorm and then write ways that they can be a light to others on the points of the star. Provide assistance if needed. Then provide glitter, glue, and art materials such as markers and crayons, for the children to color or decorate the stars. Encourage the children to display their stars at home as a reminder to share the light of Jesus with others.
As an extension activity, bring the children together to discuss ways they can be a light to others as a class or a group.
The download is available in English or Spanish.
Use the Epiphany Activity in conjunction with the We Celebrate the Epiphany Prayer Service. This experience helps primary-aged participants focus on Jesus as the light of our lives and combines song, Scripture, and art in prayer.
