The Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul is the day that Christians around the world celebrate the conversion of Saul of Tarsus to St. Paul. Saul was a very devout Jew who hated Jesus’ followers. He spent all of his energies on finding and arresting the followers of Jesus. As Saul neared a city called Damascus, a light from heaven flashed all around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say, “Saul, why do you persecute me?” At that moment, Jesus revealed himself to Saul and Saul became blind. Saul was led to a home in Damascus where he fasted and prayed for three days. At the same time, Jesus appeared to a Christian named Ananias. Jesus instructed Ananias to go and find a man named Saul. Ananias was scared because he knew that Saul had arrested Christians and yet he obeyed. Ananias went and prayed for Saul and as he did scales fell off of Saul’s eyes and he was able to see. Saul was filled with the Holy Spirit and became a devout follower of Jesus. His name was changed to Paul and he is considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age of the church. Paul founded several churches in Asia Minor and Europe and he wrote thirteen of the twenty-seven books in the New Testament. Christians celebrate the conversion of St. Paul because it marks his transformation from a devout enemy of Christianity to one of its most ardent supporters and missionaries of Jesus. His conversion is seen as a powerful example of the transformative power of an encounter with Jesus. Additionally, St. Paul's writings have had a profound influence on Christian theology, and his letters make up a significant portion of the New Testament. So Christians celebrate the conversion of St. Paul as a commemoration of one of the most influential figures in Christianity and as a celebration of the transformative power of faith. Ways to Celebrate Read the story of St. Paul’s Conversion found in Acts 9:1-22 Add the collect to your daily prayer time - O GOD, who, through the preaching of the blessed Apostle Saint Paul, hast caused the light of the Gospel to shine throughout the world: Grant, we beseech thee, that we, having his wonderful conversion in remembrance, may shew forth our thankfulness unto thee for the same, by following the holy doctrine which he taught; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Make cookies and let each child have two cookies, one for each eye. Have them hold the cookies in front of their eyes as you read the story of Saul's conversion from the bible. When you get to the part in the story where the scales fall from Saul’s eyes, have them remove the cookies from before their eyes. They will love eating the cookies after you're done with the story! This is a great way to emphasize the sweetness of God's grace in our lives! Here's one of our favorite cookie recipes: Oatmeal Cookies 1 cup butter 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 1/2 cups flour 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats sugar for coating cookies Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream butter and sugars. Add egg through cinnamon and mix well. Add flour and oats and mix well. Form dough into 2-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Important Last Step! Flatten each ball with the bottom of a small glass that has been buttered and dipped into sugar. Bake for 10-12 minutes.

The Feast of the Confession of St. Peter, celebrated on January 18, marks a pivotal moment in the Gospels when Peter boldly declares, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). This confession is recognized as an epiphany , another divine revelation of Jesus’ true identity, which is why it is celebrated during the season of Epiphany, a time dedicated to reflecting on the ways God reveals Himself through Jesus Christ. Peter’s confession not only affirms Jesus as the Messiah but also sets the foundation for the Church. Jesus responds to Peter’s declaration with profound words: "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it." —Matthew 16:17-18 Where did Peter Make This Confession? Understanding the location is critical in order to grasp the significance of this event. Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Christ takes place in the region of Caesarea Philippi. It was situated about 25 miles north of the Sea of Galilee at the base of Mount Hermon and was significantly north of their typical ministry area in Galilee, requiring a deliberate journey to get there. It was a prominent center of pagan worship and Roman influence during Jesus’ time. The city was a center for pagan religious practices and was known for its shrines to Greek and Roman gods, particularly the god Pan, who was worshipped as the deity of nature and fertility. Offerings and sacrifices were made to the pagan gods, along with ritualistic celebrations and temple prostitution. The grotto dedicated to Pan and the associated rituals would have been considered highly offensive to Jewish religious sensibilities. A large grotto in the area, often referred to as the “Gates of Hades,” was part of a temple complex dedicated to these pagan practices. Locals believed this grotto was a portal to the underworld, making it a place of spiritual darkness and superstition. In addition to its religious significance, Caesarea Philippi was a symbol of Roman power. Herod Philip named the city to honor Caesar Augustus and himself, further solidifying its role as a political and cultural hub. This dual association with pagan worship and Roman authority must have caused such apprehension among the disciples and made it a most unusual location for Jesus to reveal His identity through Peter’s confession! Why It Matters By choosing Caesarea Philippi for this moment, Jesus contrasted the wickedness of the region with the truth of His divine mission. When Peter declared, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God,” he did so in a setting steeped in idolatry, immorality, and worldly power. This made his confession all the more profound, as it acknowledged Jesus as the true Messiah in a place dominated by darkness, sin, and death. Jesus’ response to Peter’s confession also takes on greater meaning in this context. When He says, “The gates of Hades will not prevail against it,” He speaks directly to the fears and beliefs tied to the grotto, which locals considered an entryway to the underworld. Jesus declares His ultimate power and authority, proclaiming that His Church will stand firm against all the forces of darkness. In the heart of a region dedicated to false gods and worldly power, the true identity of Christ was revealed, establishing the foundation of the Church and its mission to bring light to the world. Why Do We Celebrate the Confession of St. Peter? The confession of Peter is a cornerstone of Christian faith and theology. It reveals Jesus’ identity as the Messiah and the foundation upon which the Church is built. This moment is not simply a personal statement from Peter but a divine revelation given by God the Father. The Church celebrates this feast to remind us of the importance of being led by the Holy Spirit, bold faith and the centrality of Jesus in our lives. It is also an opportunity to reflect on our own confession of faith and how we, like Peter, are called to proclaim Jesus as Lord and Savior. Ways to Celebrate the Feast of the Confession of St. Peter Reflect on Matthew 16:13-20. Read the passage where Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ. Consider the setting, the cultural context, and the significance of Peter’s words. Reflect on these questions: How does Peter’s bold confession inspire your own faith? What “epiphanies” has God revealed to you in your spiritual journey? Pray for Unity in the Church. The Feast of the Confession of St. Peter also marks the beginning of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which runs from January 18 to January 25, concluding with the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul. This octave of prayer emphasizes the call for unity among Christians of all denominations. (I’ll be sharing all about this tomorrow!) Make braided bread. Since we are praying for unity, make Breaded Loaf Bread. Braided bread is a powerful symbol of unity because of its intertwined strands, which visually and symbolically represent the bringing together of separate parts into one whole. Each strand retains its individuality but contributes to a beautiful, cohesive design, much like how individuals or groups come together to form a unified community! the recipe -

On January 18th, the Feast of the Confession of St. Peter , the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins. During these eight days, Christians around the world, from various denominations, join together in prayer for the unity of Christians, to reflect together on scripture, to participate in jointly-organized worship services, and to share in acts of outreach and fellowship. The theme for 2025 is drawn from John 11:26, “Do you believe this?” "Lord Jesus, You prayed that Your Church might be one. Grant that we may work together in love, proclaiming Your truth to the world. Help us to seek unity, guided by Your Spirit, that all may come to know You as the Christ, the Son of the living God. Amen." Jesus prayed for unity in John 17:21: “That they may all be one, as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.” The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity invites believers worldwide to join together in worship, prayer, and acts of reconciliation, reflecting the shared confession that Jesus is the Christ. Ways to move through the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Use the wonderful guide provided by the World Council of Churches to pray over the next eight days for Christian Unity. Involve your children in the prayers for Christian unity with this simple woven heart basket activity. Every part of the craft is filled with meaning: green and white for the season of Epiphany hearts for the love that Jesus calls us to construction paper that is not very strong yet becomes strong when woven together. eight baskets for the eight days of prayer for unity. After you have made the baskets, print out the scriptures I provide, cut them out, fold them up, and place each one in a heart basket. Optional: Add a piece of candy for each child in each basket. Every night, gather as a family, bring down the appropriate heart, read the scripture, and pray. After you are done praying, let your children enjoy the treat! Woven Heart Baskets 5 sheets of green construction paper (1 sheet is for the handles) 4 sheets of white construction paper Scissors Glue Printed prayers (print out the Scriptures for Christian Unity below) Candy (optional) How to assemble: Take 4 sheets of green and 4 sheets of white construction paper, and fold each one in half width-wise. Fold each sheet in half width-wise again. Cut in half. Cut a rounded edge along the open side of each piece of construction paper. Turn to the folded side of the paper and cut three strips of equal size, stopping about an inch before the rounded top. Label the tips of the 3 strips. This will make it much easier to follow the succeeding weaving steps. Use a pencil to label the left-hand template with C-B-A and the right-hand template with 1-2-3. Place the right-hand template under the left-hand template. Rotate the two templates so that they are at right angles to each other. To start weaving, take Strip 1 and weave it through the loop of Strip A. Next, weave Strip 1 around Strip B. Continue by weaving Strip 1 through the loop of Strip C. Move Strip 1 up until it touches the top of the slits. Now take Strip 2 and weave it around Strip A. Weave Strip 2 through Strip B. Then weave Strip 2 around Strip C.  Weave Strip 3 similar to Strip 1 and like Strip 2. Gently ease the strips towards the edges. Erase any pencil marks. Cut a strip of green construction paper to make the handle. Glue the ends on the inside of the heart basket. Once the glue dries, mark each heart basket with the numbers 1-8 for each day of prayer. Print and cut out each scripture. Place a scripture and candy in each basket. Hang the hearts on a branch from your yard and place the branch in a pitcher or vase.

Epiphanytide is a season set apart by its focus on the revelations of Christ—those profound moments when Jesus’ divine identity is made known to the world. Central themes of this season include revelation, as God discloses Himself through Jesus Christ; light, as we reflect on Christ as the Light of the World shining into the darkness; and reflection, as this quieter, contemplative time bridges the joy of Christmas with the penitence of Lent. Moving from the feasting of Christmas into the steadier rhythm of Epiphanytide, we are invited to consider how God’s revelations shape our daily lives. How do we carry the light of Christ into the ordinary moments of our days? How does His presence transform us? During Epiphany, we are surrounded with the liturgical color green, a color that symbolizes growth, life, and the enduring hope we have in Christ. This season of light and revelation invites us to reflect on how God is revealed to us and how our faith continues to grow. One meaningful way to engage with these themes is by planting paperwhites. These delicate white flowers beautifully align with Epiphanytide, offering a tangible reflection of the season’s emphasis on growth, renewal, and light. Watching their transformation from bulb to bloom mirrors our own spiritual journey, as we open ourselves to the light of Christ and grow in faith. Just as the paperwhite emerges and blooms in the light, Epiphany celebrates the light of Christ revealed to the world and the call for us to grow in faith and understanding. Planting paperwhites is a quiet, contemplative activity, a way to pause and reflect on God’s ongoing work in our lives. It is also a wonderful opportunity to involve children, teaching them through hands-on experience about spiritual growth and the beauty of creation. This simple activity can be a quiet, reflective practice for the season, a reminder that just as these flowers turn toward the light, so too are we called to turn toward the light of Christ, allowing His love to nurture and sustain our faith. the activity - supplies: paperwhite bulbs (You can find these at most nurseries. I ordered mine online .) container (I had several ceramic pots in my garage but this scalloped one is cute, so is this one with a stamped heart ) potting soil ( I ordered mine here ) rocks or pebbles ( pebble filler ) Select a container. Fill it a fourth of the way with rocks or pebbles for better draianage. Fill the pot the rest of the way with potting soil. Nestle the bulbs in the potting soil, making sure that only 1/3 of the bulb is covered. Water your paperwhites gently, just enough to moisten the soil without overwatering. Continue watering only when the soil is dry. You don't want to overwater paperwhite bulbs or they will rot. Bringing it All Together As you care for them daily, let this be a time of prayer and reflection with your family. Each day, as you watch the green shoots emerge and grow, consider how the Lord is cultivating growth and hope in your life. This daily act becomes a living metaphor for nurturing your faith. Our growth in the Lord, like the growth of a paperwhite, is gradual but filled with beauty and wonder.

The Confession of St. Peter is a statement made by the apostle Peter in which he professes his belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. This confession is recorded in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. In Matthew 16:16, Jesus asks his disciples, "Who do you say that I am?" and Peter responds, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." This statement is considered a monumental moment in the Bible, as it marks Peter's recognition of Jesus as the Messiah or Christ, the Son of God. The Church celebrates the Confession of St. Peter because it is seen as a significant moment in the history of Christianity. Peter's declaration that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, is the foundation of the Church and the beginning of Jesus' public ministry. This confession is also seen as a recognition of Jesus' divine nature and authority, which is central to Christian belief. Additionally, the Confession of St. Peter is also a reminder of the importance of faith and the role of the Church in spreading the message of Jesus Christ. The Church also commemorates this event as a means to honor St. Peter as a central leader of the early Christian community, and his role as the rock upon which Jesus said he would build his Church. Ways to Celebrate Read Matthew 16:13-19. Reflect on the passage that records Peter's confession, and consider what it means for our own faith. How was this truth revealed to Peter? Does the Holy Spirit reveal things to us as well? Pray for the unity of the Christian Church. The Feast of the Confession of St. Peter kicks off the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. It is actually eight days long, not seven which is known as an octave. It begins on the Feast of the Confession of St. Peter and ends on January 25th which is the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul. It occurs every year and is coordinated by the World Council of Churches , with participation by denominations around the world. They commit to pray together for the unity of the Christian Church. Here is the link to pray with Christians around the world for the unity of the Christian Church.

The first Sunday after Epiphany Christians around the world celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord. It is a significant day in the life of Jesus and the Church. On this day, we remember Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River, a moment of profound revelation (an epiphany!) and the beginning of His public ministry. The Baptism and the Season of Epiphany The Church celebrates the baptism of Jesus during Epiphanytide because it aligns with other key moments of revelation, such as the visit of the Magi and the miracle at Cana. Each of these events reveals who Jesus is and deepens our understanding of His divine mission. The baptism of Jesus is not merely a historical moment; it is a profound theological event that reveals God’s nature, affirms Jesus' identity, and manifests the beginning of His redemptive mission. This is why the Church holds it as a central Epiphany, a divine unveiling that calls believers to reflect on the mystery and majesty of Christ. The story of Jesus’ baptism is recounted in all four Gospels, emphasizing its significance. Jesus approached John the Baptist as he was baptizing in the Jordan River and asked to be baptized. Initially, John hesitated, saying it should be the other way around. But Jesus responded: “Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” —Matthew 3:15 John consented and baptized Jesus. At that moment, the heavens opened, the Holy Spirit descended like a dove, and the voice of God declared: “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” —Matthew 3:17 This was not just a moment for Jesus—it was an epiphany for all who were present. The Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, was revealed, working together in perfect unity. The Significance of Jesus’ Baptism The baptism of Jesus is a moment of profound significance in the Gospels, serving as a cornerstone of Christian theology and faith. First and foremost, it is a revelation of the Trinity. At His baptism, God the Father speaks from heaven, declaring, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,” while the Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus in the form of a dove. This visible and audible manifestation of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit working together marks the first clear revelation of the triune God, affirming Jesus’ divine identity and mission. This event also signifies the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. For thirty years, He had lived in relative obscurity, but His baptism inaugurates His role as the Messiah and Redeemer. From this moment, He embarks on His mission to preach the Kingdom of God, perform miracles, and ultimately offer His life for the salvation of humanity. His baptism serves as a public declaration of His purpose, setting the stage for everything that follows in His ministry. Even though Jesus was sinless and had no need of repentance, His baptism demonstrates His humility and obedience to God’s plan. By submitting to baptism, He identifies fully with humanity, embracing our need for redemption. It is an act that sanctifies the waters of baptism, making them a means of grace for all believers. Through His baptism, Jesus models the significance of this sacrament, inviting His followers to enter into a life of faith, repentance, and renewal. The baptism of Jesus also foreshadows His death and resurrection. Baptism, as a sacrament, symbolizes dying to sin and rising to new life. When Jesus enters the waters of the Jordan, He points forward to the ultimate act of redemption He will accomplish through the cross and the empty tomb. In this way, His baptism is not only a moment of revelation but also a profound act of anticipation and promise. Finally, the baptism of Jesus calls believers to reflect on their own baptism. It reminds us of the grace we have received and the covenant we have entered into as followers of Christ. It is a moment to reaffirm our identity as God’s beloved children and to recommit ourselves to living out our faith. The baptism of Jesus is a powerful reminder of the unity between heaven and earth, the humility of Christ, and the call to share in His mission of redemption and love. Ways to Celebrate the Baptism of Our Lord Read Matthew 3:13-17 . Reflect on what Jesus’ baptism means for us today. Consider these questions: Why did Jesus choose to be baptized by John? How does the revelation of the Trinity deepen your understanding of God? What does your baptism mean to you? Renew Your Baptismal Vows. In churches all over the world, Christians gather and renew their baptismal vows. After the renewal, the priest walks among the people and asperges them with holy water, reminding them of their baptism and the cleansing and renewal it wrought. If attending a church service is not possible, here is the renewal of baptismal vows. Get wet. Around the world, the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord is celebrated with water-centered traditions: In Eastern Europe, Christians jump into icy waters, symbolizing purification and renewal. In Greece, a priest throws a wooden cross into the sea, and young men dive to retrieve it, symbolizing the light of Christ being brought into the world. Take a swim in a body of water or fill a bowl with water and dip your fingers in it as a reminder of your baptism. Make the sign of the cross and say, “I am baptized in Christ.” Make Zalabee (Syrian doughnuts). In Syria, Christians make Zalabee for the feast. These doughnut-shaped cakes are fried in olive oil and sprinkled with sugar to signify sweet and everlasting life. Although the method for making these cakes has been simplified, at one time the dough used for the cakes was the result of being ‘baptized.’ The ceremony for the baptizing of the dough began with wrapping the dough in a white cloth. It was then carried to a fountain and immersed in the name of the Holy Trinity. The dough hung in the tree for three days and was taken to the house. Miraculously, the dough rose without yeast! This new leavened dough provided the yeast for the next year. From this dough, small crosses were made and placed wherever food was stored in the home and Zalabee was made. the recipe - Carrying the Light Forward The Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord invites us to reflect on the gift of baptism and its meaning in our lives. Just as Jesus began His public ministry after His baptism, we are called to live out our baptismal calling by sharing the Good News, serving others, and growing in our faith. Let this day be a reminder of the promises made at baptism, the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, and the mission we are called to fulfill as followers of Christ.

The first Sunday after Epiphany is the day that the church celebrates the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. The story of Jesus’ baptism is recounted in all four gospels, emphasizing the significance of the event. Jesus went to John the Baptist as he was baptizing in the Jordan River and asked to be baptized. John declared that it is he who should be baptized by Jesus, not the other way around. But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” So John consented and baptized Jesus. When Jesus had been baptized , the heavens opened, the Holy Spirit fell on Jesus and God declared from the heavens that Jesus was His beloved son, in whom He was well pleased. This is yet again another “epiphany," another moment where God is revealing himself through Jesus. We see the Trinity revealed through God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. They are all present in this moment for those around Jesus to see. They are all at work together. The baptism of Jesus is also the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. It is a day in which we remember and celebrate not only Jesus’ baptism but also our own baptism. This day is a wonderful opportunity to remember our own baptisms, and to reaffirm our own baptismal calling - to share the good news with everyone around us. Ways to Celebrate Around the world, different water-centered traditions exist, such as in Ukraine, where Christians jump in and bathe in ice-cold water. Across southern and eastern Europe, Christians jump into freezing water to retrieve a wooden crucifix. -Be daring and jump into a cold pool, lake, or body of water around you. -Take a cold shower or bath. Churches around the world celebrate the Baptism of Our Lord on this day. All of the scripture readings and songs recount the biblical event. They also renew their own baptismal vows as some are baptized.  -Go over the baptismal vows that you made. Baptismal Vows Celebrant: Do you believe in God the Father? People: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. Celebrant: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God? People: I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day, he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. Celebrant: Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit? People: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Celebrant: Will you continue in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers? People: I will, with God’s help. Celebrant: Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord? People: I will, with God’s help. Celebrant: Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ? People: I will, with God’s help. Celebrant: Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself? People: I will, with God’s help. Celebrant: Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being? People: I will, with God’s help. Devotion for the Baptism of Our Lord Light a candle or candles. Begin your devotion time with the following invitation to prayer: Leader: The Lord be with you. People: And also with you. Leader: Let us pray. Opening prayer: Father in heaven, at the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan You proclaimed that Jesus was your beloved Son and you anointed him with the Holy Spirit: Grant that all who are baptized into his Name may keep the covenant they have made, and boldly confess him as Lord and Savior; who with you and the same Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting.  Amen. Read Matthew 3:13-17 Close with a prayer thanking God for his goodness and asking for his guidance and protection for you and all who are in any need or trouble. End your devotion by saying the Lord’s Prayer together.

Even though we are in the heart of winter, the celebrations of Jesus’ life continue, giving us hope, light, and a sense of anticipation. The twelve days of Christmas have drawn to a close but Epiphanytide is not so much the end of Christmas as a continuation of Christmas. We begin the Christmas season with the revelation of God to His people in the birth of Jesus on Christmas Day and the revelations continue throughout the season of Epiphany until we arrive at the season of Lent. Epiphanytide is all about God revealing himself to us through Jesus. It is a time to rest and reflect. What is Epiphanytide? What is this mysterious word “epiphany”? Epiphany is from the Greek word “epiphaneia” which means manifestation. An epiphany, by definition, happens suddenly and it reveals the essential nature or meaning of something. Epiphany can also be described as an intuitive grasp of reality through something simple and striking. So what are these epiphanies that the church celebrates from Christmas Day until the end of Epiphany? The Church believes that Jesus is THE revelation of God to us and through that major revelation come more detailed revelations. First and foremost, Jesus’ birth was the revelation of God to Israel, His Chosen People. Next, the visit of the Three Wise Men is the revelation of God to the Gentiles, the baptism of Jesus revealed the Trinity, the miracle of the wedding at Cana revealed Jesus’ glory and the presentation of Jesus in the temple revealed Jesus as the Messiah. Note: Epiphanytide can also be referred to as Ordinary Time. The name Ordinary Time is often misunderstood. The name in no way means mundane or common. Ordinary Time refers to seasons in the church that show up twice in the liturgical year; once in winter and once in the summer. The word “ordinary”  refers to “ordinal” numbers and simply means  “time that is ordered”.  Get ready! It's a busy but beautiful season filled with meaning and meaningful traditions. Let us embrace it with wonder and awe! Follow along as I share everything you’ll need to celebrate this special season, including its history, recipes, and traditions. Epiphanytide at a Glance with Helpful Links: January 1 The Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus January 5&6 How to Celebrate Twelfth Night and the Feast of Epiphany January 7 The Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord January 18 The Confession of St. Peter January 25 The Conversion of St. Paul February 2 The Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple (Candlemas) February 13 Shrove Tuesday or Mardi Gras

Advent is almost here—a season of waiting, hope, and joyful expectation. But before we enter this sacred time, let’s take a moment to prepare ourselves for the journey ahead. Properly observing Advent isn’t about perfection or adding more to your already busy schedule. Instead, it’s about intentionally stepping away from the chaos and making space in our hearts and homes for Christ. If we’re honest, this requires a willingness to do things differently. While the world around us rushes into Christmas the moment the Halloween decorations come down, Advent calls us to pause. It invites us into a countercultural rhythm of waiting, longing, and preparation. To truly embrace Advent, we first need to shift our mindset—to understand what Advent is for and why it matters—before we bring those changes into our homes and families. Advent Begins in the Heart Advent is a time of preparation. It’s a season of waiting, of longing for the fulfillment of God’s promises of a Savior. While the world skips straight to the “fa-la-la-la-las,” Advent asks us to embrace the quiet, reflective work of getting our hearts ready for the miracle of Christmas. This mindset shift might feel counterintuitive. After all, everything around us screams for instant gratification. But Advent encourages us to wait well—to find beauty in anticipation. And as we prepare personally, we can also guide our families into this way of thinking. A Family Journey Through Advent Once we’ve reoriented our own hearts, we can bring this new perspective to our families. Advent isn’t just something we do ; it’s something we experience together . This means setting aside time to talk about what Advent is, why it matters, and how it will look different from the world’s holiday rush. Explain to your family that Advent is a journey—a time of preparation and waiting for the birth of Jesus. Compare it to how parents prepare for a baby: They don’t just wait passively; they make space in their hearts and their homes. They prepare a room, gather blankets and clothes, and pick a name. Similarly, during Advent, we prepare both inwardly and outwardly for the arrival of Christ. Help your children understand that Advent isn’t about rules or restrictions, but about intentionally setting this time apart as holy. Whether it’s fasting from sweets, singing Advent songs instead of Christmas carols, or waiting to decorate the tree, these practices are meant to remind us of the beauty of anticipation. And don’t forget to remind them that Advent isn’t about earning God’s love—He already loves us fully and unconditionally. Getting Ready to Start This preparation takes time, which is why it’s important to plan ahead. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite Advent traditions, practices, and items that have helped our family embrace this season with joy and intention. From creating an Advent wreath to planning family devotions, these ideas will give you a foundation to build on, so you’re ready to begin as Advent approaches. You can also find my complete guide to Advent in my book, The Liturgical Home: Advent. Remember, you don’t need to do everything. Choose the practices that resonate most with your family, and let them guide you into the season. Write down your intentions and commitments as a family, and put them somewhere visible—a tangible reminder of the heart behind your Advent journey. A Season Set Apart Advent is a gift, a season set apart to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. It’s a time to slow down, focus on God's promises, and create space for His light to enter our lives. As you begin preparing yourself and your family for this season, remember that Advent isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. So let’s take this time to ready our hearts and our homes. Together, we’ll step into the season of Advent with expectation and open hands, waiting with hope for the fulfillment of God’s promises. And when Christmas finally arrives, we’ll greet it not with exhaustion but with hearts full of true joy.

The celebration of Twelfth Night or Eve of the Epiphany and Epiphany is one of our oldest celebrations in the church. It is even older than the celebration of Christmas Day! Twelfth Night or Eve of the Epiphany begins at sundown and is the beginning of the celebration of Epiphany. On this day, we celebrate the long journey that the wise men made and their final arrival to the child Jesus. At the center of Twelfth Night celebrations is the Twelfth Night cake. Depending on the country, it is a simple cake with a dried bean inside. Whoever finds the bean in their piece of cake is crowned king or queen for the night and might also have duties assigned to them at a later celebration! In England, the Twelfth Night Cake is a fruit cake with a gold paper crown wrapped around the outside. The French serve their particular King Cake or Galette des Rois all month long. In northern France, they serve a pastry filled with frangipane, fruit, or chocolate. In southern France, they serve a brioche filled with candied fruits.   In Spain and Mexico they eat a cake called Rosca de Reyes. Rosca de Reyes is  a sweet bread shaped like a wreath, with candied fruit on top and a figurine of a baby Jesus baked inside. The person who finds the figurine is expected to host a party on Dia de la Candelaria  or Candlemas which is celebrated on February 2nd. In Spanish, "Rosca de Reyes" means “Kings Wreath.” The cake is rich in symbolism and is about the story of Mary and Joseph's flight to Egypt to protect the infant Jesus from the slaughter of the innocents. The shape of the cake symbolizes the crown of King Herod from whom they were trying to hide the infant Jesus. The dried fruit placed on top are jewels in the crown. The figurine or bean in the cake represents baby Jesus in hiding. Celebrate Twelfth Night and Epiphany by making your own Epiphany Cake. Our favorite is this recipe for Rosca de Reyes. It is delicious! We love the orange zest and sugared oranges on the top! Hide a dried bean inside the cake and let your family or guests know that whoever finds the bean gets to wear a crown and become king or queen for the night. Have them make a royal speech and let them make important decisions for the rest of the night! Rosca de Reyes 1/2 cup of warm water 1 envelope or 2 ¼ teaspoons of active yeast 4 cups all-purpose flour plus 2 or 3 tablespoons more for dusting ¾ cup of sugar 3 large eggs 3 egg yolks mixed with 4 tablespoons of milk ¼ teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons orange water or 1 1/2 tablespoons orange extract 1 ½ stick unsalted butter softened Freshly grated orange zest from one orange 1 plastic baby doll or a dried bean Sugared Oranges: Thinly sliced oranges 1/2 cup sugar Enough water to cover the orange slices  Glaze: 1 egg beaten for glazing the bread 1 tablespoon whole milk or water White sugar to sprinkle on top of the bread 2 or 3 plastic baby dolls To make the sugared oranges, thinly slice oranges and then cut them in half. Place in a saucepan with water and sugar and bring to a boil. Reduce to a low boil and cook for 30 minutes. Drain the orange slices on a cookie rack and allow to cool. To make the bread, put your lukewarm water into a bowl, and sprinkle with yeast. Stir with a fork until yeast has dissolved, then let stand until foamy, 5 to 10 minutes. Stir in ½ cup of the flour, and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let stand in a warm place until doubled in bulk, about 25 minutes. In the meantime, mix flour, eggs, egg yolks, sugar, orange extract, orange zest, salt, and butter in a large bowl. Mix until crumbly. Add yeast mixture to the bowl and mix. It will be very sticky but manageable, add flour if needed. Place on a lightly floured surface and start kneading until you have a smooth dough. It will take about 15-20 minutes to get these results or 7 minutes in a stand mixer. DO NOT add too much flour to your working area, the texture should be very soft, sort of wet but manageable. If you add more flour than needed your bread will be dry. Once your dough is smooth and soft, place in a buttered bowl, and cover with buttered plastic wrap. The dough must be wet and elastic. Let dough stand in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 and ½ hours. If the dough doesn’t double in volume after this time let it rest longer. After the first resting period. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead a few times, then shape it into a round cushion and make a hole in the middle to shape it into a large ring. Transfer to a greased-rimmed baking sheet, and loosely cover with buttered plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes or more until almost double in volume. Gather all your decorations and the egg wash. For the egg wash whisk the remaining egg with milk or water. Preheat oven for at least 20 minutes before baking at 375 degrees, with rack in the lower third. Brush the dough with the egg wash two times for a golden crust. Place the sugared orange slices around the ring, pressing them gently into the dough. Sprinkle with sugar and bake for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake for 10 more minutes until bread is a nice golden brown color. Depending on your oven it will require more time. Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool. After the bread has cooled insert the plastic baby doll or bean from the bottom of the bread. Do not forget to let your guests know that there is a baby toy or bean inside the bread. The bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

The celebration of Twelfth Night and Epiphany is one of our oldest celebrations in the church. It is even older than the celebration of Christmas Day! The celebration originated in Egypt in the 3rd century and is the last vestige of an ancient Christian celebration called Smoke Nights. Every night, beginning on Christmas Eve and lasting for twelve nights, Christians celebrated these nights by going through their homes and barns, burning incense, and blessing their homesteads. There is only one of these nights left now and it is called Twelfth Night.  Twelfth Night or Eve of the Epiphany begins at sundown and is the beginning of the celebration of Epiphany. On this day, we celebrate the wise men's long journey and their meeting with the child Jesus. In the Gospel of Matthew, we are told that wise men came from the east to Jerusalem, looking for the one born to be the King of the Jews. They were led by a bright and unusual star in the sky that they knew signified the birth of a mighty king. They brought with them gifts worthy of a king and traveled for quite some time until they arrived in arrived at King Herod's palace seeking the "one who had been born king of the Jews." Herod was greatly troubled by what the Wise Men said. He assembled the chief priests and teachers of the law to tell them where this child would be. They searched the scriptures and answered that the child would be found in Bethlehem. Herod called the Wise Men to him and gave them the location. He asked that as soon as they found the child, they would report back to him so that he might come and worship him as well. The Wise Men were led to a humble home where Jesus lived with Mary and Joseph. When they arrived at the home they rejoiced with “exceedingly great joy." They went into the home, saw the young child, and fell down and worshipped Him. Then they presented the child with their treasures; gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The church recognizes this beautiful moment as an epiphany. An epiphany is a revelation that happens suddenly and reveals something’s true nature or meaning. It was in this moment that God’s plan for salvation through Jesus was revealed to the world beyond the Jews. Through the wise men’s visit we see that through Jesus, God’s plan of salvation is meant for everyone. Although Twelfth Night and Epiphany is not celebrated much in the United States, it is a major holiday in other countries around the world. There is feasting and parades through the streets. Men dressed as Wise Men can be seen parading down the streets and Wise Men figures are placed at town nativity scenes. This is the last great feast in the Christmas cycle and it is wonderfully celebrated. The Blessing of the Home After the evening meal, it is traditional in many countries for the family to follow the father through the house and farm.  The father goes from room to room burning incense.  He is followed by another member of the family who carries a bowl filled with holy water and sprinkles the holy water freely throughout every room of the house. The rest of the family processes behind them carrying a star affixed to a branch or pole and the wise men from the creche. They sing hymns to mark the event like “We Three Kings of Orient Are." They then make their way to the last room of the house where the nativity scene is. They place the kings around baby Jesus lying in the manger. After the adoration of baby Jesus, the family writes the initials C, M, and B in chalk above their front door. The initials stand for the names of the wise men: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, and also "Christ, bless this house" in Latin (Christus mansionem benedicat). The initials are then surrounded by the current year and separated by crosses (20+C+M+B+24).  Singing Door to Door In Austria and Germany, Star Singers would go and visit the houses in their area.  The Star Singers represented the three Wise Men and they carried decorated boxes representing the three gifts that the Wise Men gave to Jesus.  The Star Singers would move from house to house singing carols. They would also collect money which would then be given to the poor.  The Star Singers were led by a person carrying a large star hanging from a pole or stick.   As recently as the 1950s, the people in Great Britain celebrated with a night of wassailing. Wassailers, like carol singers, go from house to house singing and wishing their neighbors good health. They would all celebrate with a drink called Lamb’s Wool which is made of cider or ale along with roasted apples, sugar, and spices. Epiphany Presents In many cultures, children believe that the Magi come to them and bring gifts just as they did to Jesus. In the days leading up to Epiphany or Three Kings’ Day, children write letters to the three kings asking for a toy or gift. The children leave their shoes the night before Epiphany.  They add some hay to their shoes for the Wise Men’s animals to eat. When the children wake up in the morning, gifts appear in place of the hay. Epiphany Food For the Feast of the Epiphany, there are incredible food traditions worldwide. In Ukraine, people celebrate by making a traditional meal of kutya which is wheat berry and dried fruit soup, vareniki dumplings, and borscht. When Poland was under communist rule the celebration of Epiphany was almost nonexistent but now big cities like Warsaw and Krakow have brought back the traditions. They have an Epiphany parade and they eat szczodraki which are little pastries made either sweet or savory by the filling. The celebration is always linked to the harvest so if the year has been good, the szczodraki will be large and generously filled; if it has been a bad year, they will be made small and without any filling at all. In England, they serve a Twelfth Night Cake which is a fruit cake with a gold paper crown wrapped around the outside. The French serve the Galette des Rois. In northern France, it is a pastry filled with frangipane, fruit or chocolate. In southern France, it is a brioche filled with candied fruits. In Spain everyone gets together for a huge feast. They start with tapas and then eat a dinner of slow roast lamb and finish with the Rosca de Reyes cake. In Mexico they drink hot chocolate or atole (a warm, thick, grain-based drink) and eat Rosca de Reyes as well. Rosca de Reyes is  a sweet bread shaped like a wreath, with candied fruit on top and a figurine of a baby Jesus baked inside. The person who finds the figurine is expected to host a party on Dia de la Candelaria  or Candlemas which is celebrated on February 2nd. Ways to Celebrate Read Matthew 2:1-12. Sing “We Three Kings of Orient Are. " As you sing, bring your nativity wise men and place them around baby Jesus lying in the manger. After the adoration of baby Jesus, go to your front door and write the initials C, M, and B in chalk along the top of your door. The initials are said to stand for the names of the wise men: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, or “Christ, bless this house” in Latin (Christus mansionem benedicat). The initials are then surrounded by the current year and separated by crosses (20+C+M+B+25). Make a Twelfth Night Cake also known as a King Cake, Galette de Rois, or Rosca de Reyes, depending on the country. It is a simple cake with a dried bean inside. Whoever finds the bean in their cake is crowned king or queen for the night and might also have duties assigned to them at a later celebration. For my favorite New Orleans Style King Cake, click here or the Spanish version, Rosca de Reyes below. Have your children leave out their shoes and fill them with little toys or candy while they sleep. The recipe -

Happy second day of December! This is such an exciting month in the Liturgical Year as we kick off the season of Advent and move towards Christmas Day and the 12 Days of Christmas. I can’t wait to celebrate it with you! Let's get started! If you'd like a calendar of the entire liturgical year, here's a PDF printout: Or a physical calendar you can hang on your wall: The Liturgical Home Liturgical Calendar for 202 4-25   Advent We begin the season of Advent on December 1st. The season of Advent is a beautiful time when we repent, wait, and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Awaiting the Savior: The Sacred Journey Through Advent Preparing Your Heart and Home for Advent Reclaiming the Seasons: Advent & Christmas Celebrating Advent with an Advent Wreath The Beauty of Advent Music A Look Inside The Liturgical Home - Advent Making Advent Meaningful, The Christmas Crib Tradition The Advent Bidding Prayer My Favorite Advent Calendars My Favorite Nativity Sets December 6th - The Feast of St. Nicholas On this day, we celebrate the real Santa Claus. He was a faithful follower of Jesus and bishop of the church who took care of those in need around him. Celebrating The Feast of St. Nicholas Why do we Celebrate St. Nicholas Day With Oranges? December 13th - The Feast of St. Lucy On this day, we celebrate a young girl who delivered food to persecuted Christians who were hiding in the Roman catacombs and was martyred for her faith. Shining Light in Darkness: Celebrating St. Lucy's Day with Saffron Buns and Family Traditions December 21st - The Feast of St. Thomas On this day we celebrate a faithful disciple of Jesus who evangelized India and was martyred for his faith. Celebrating The Feast of St. Thomas December 24th - Christmas Eve A special day suspended between two worlds, the end of Advent and the beginning of the celebrations for the birth of Jesus Christ. Celebrating Christmas Eve December 25th - Christmas Day The moment we've been waiting for is finally here, the birth of Jesus! This is one of the highest feast days of the liturgical year and the beginning of the season of celebration known as the 12 Days of Christmas. Christmastide Celebrations or The Twelve Days of Christmas Celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas with Lemon Butter Cookies December 26th - The Feast of St. Stephen On this day we celebrate the first person martyred because of their faith in Jesus. Celebrating the Feast of St. Stephen December 27th - The Feast of St. John On this day we celebrate   a faithful disciple of Jesus who wrote the Gospel of John, the letters of John, and the book of Revelation. Celebrating the Feast of St. John December 28th - The Feast of the Holy Innocents On this day we remember the infant boys who were killed by King Herod. Celebrating the Feast of the Holy Innocents Follow along as I share everything you’ll need to celebrate every special day this month, including the history, recipes, and traditions!