21Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heavens were opened, 22and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”-Luke 3:21-22
As the season of Christmas winds down and the calendar year ends, the Church Year still continues on! After the season of Christmas, we go through the season of Epiphany until Lent begins. With Easter being so late this year, the season of Epiphany is a bit longer than usual. For this month’s newsletter, I wanted to give a brief introduction to the season of Epiphany, as well as to teach about what to expect during Epiphany. One resource I found particularly helpful in writing this article, and that was the basis for it, was Gathered Guests: A Guide to Worship in the Lutheran Church.
Origin: The season of Epiphany is one of the oldest seasons that is observed in the Church Year. The only one older than it? Easter. Epiphany begins on January 6th, and it seems that the date has its origins in a pagan festival that celebrated the birth of Aeon. Back in the first century, the church replaced this festival with a celebration about the baptism and birth of Jesus.
Name and Themes: The word “Epiphany” means “manifestation” in Greek. This season focuses on Jesus’ manifestation as true God and true man. You see this with the inclusion of texts like the baptism of Jesus and the Transfiguration, which really proclaim that truth. Texts about Jesus’ miracles are also common in this season (like His first miracle at the wedding at Cana), and they bear witness to His identity as God. Another theme in this season is light, and it is often reflected in the hymns. As the season progresses along, the readings typically switch the teachings that are found in the earlier parts of Jesus’ ministry.
Color: The color for the season of Epiphany is green. Green often depicts growth and fulfillment. Green is also used during the season of Pentecost (which is the longest season of the Church Year). The idea of the color green being used can lead credence to the idea that Jesus is the fulfillment of Scripture, and that the prophecies about Him, His work, and His coming are being fulfilled.
Length: The season of Epiphany can vary in length. Last year, the season was five Sundays long. This year, it will be seven Sundays long, and can include as many as nine Sundays depending on the year. What effects the end date? Easter. Last year, Easter was on March 31, and this year, it is almost three weeks later: April 20. April 20 is one of the latest dates that Easter can be. What is the latest Easter can be? April 25. The next time that will occur is in 2038. The next time after that? The year will be 2190!
As we begin the season of Epiphany, I hope this little article will bless your understanding of the season and add to your appreciation of it.
Blessings to you as we begin the Epiphany season! Pastor Kooi
(Originally published in Emmaus Footprints, Vol. XXVI No. 6 – January 2025.)