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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!

Happy first day of January! I can't believe we are starting a new year! 2023 went by so fast but I am looking forward to celebrating 2024 with y'all! This is a huge month in the Liturgical Calendar. On January 6, the season of Epiphany begins. With the celebration of Epiphany, a whole new season begins, Epiphanytide. Epiphanytide is not so much the end of Christmas as a continuation of Christmas. We began the Christmas season with a revelation, the revelation of God to His people in the birth of Jesus Christ, and throughout Epiphanytide the revelations of who Jesus is will continue until we begin the season of Lent. During the month, there are so many feast days to celebrate! We begin with the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus where we remember the day that Jesus was named and circumcised. We will also celebrate the conversion of St. Paul and the confession of St. Peter. But my favorite of them all is Epiphany where we celebrate the revelation of Jesus to the whole world as symbolized by the Wise Men being led to Jesus. Get ready! It's a busy month but an incredible month. Let us embrace it with wonder and awe! Follow along as I share everything you’ll need to celebrate this special month, including the history, recipes, and traditions. Helpful Links: The Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus Twelfth Night or the Eve of Epiphany The Feast of the Epiphany The Season of Epiphany The Confession of St. Peter The Conversion of St. Paul

Happy first day of November! This is an exciting month in the Liturgical Year as we come to the end of the season of Ordinary Time. November 1st - All Saints' Day The first feast of the month is All Saints' Day, where we celebrate all of those who have lived and died in service to the Lord. November 26th - Christ the King  On this day, we celebrate to acknowledge the dominion of our king, Jesus Christ, over all of creation and every aspect of our lives. November 30th - The Feast of St. Andrew, the Apostle On this day, we celebrate a faithful follower of Jesus. Follow along as I share everything you’ll need to celebrate every special day this month, including the history, recipes, and traditions! Helpful Links: The Liturgical Calendar for 202 4-25   Current Season: Ordinary Time Flourishing With the Holy Spirit: Embracing the Season of Ordinary Time   The Season of Ordinary Time   All Saints' Day The Origins of Halloweeen and All Saints' Day Christ the King Sunday Christ the King Sunday Christ the King Pond Cake The Feast of St. Andrew, the Apostle

New Year’s Day is often associated with festivities, resolutions, and fresh starts. For Christians, this day carries an even deeper significance as we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus. This feast commemorates the naming and circumcision of Jesus, a moment rich with meaning and deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. The Naming and Circumcision of Jesus It was a Jewish custom for newborn boys to be named and circumcised eight days after their birth. This practice, grounded in the covenant between God and Abraham, signified the child’s inclusion in God’s chosen people. For Jesus, this moment also marked the fulfillment of divine prophecy. The angel Gabriel had appeared to Mary, instructing her to name the child Jesus: And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. —Luke 2:21 The name "Jesus," meaning “God saves,” reveals His pivotal role in human salvation. By giving Him this name, the world was reminded that the infant in the manger was no ordinary child but the Savior of all humanity. The Power of the Name of Jesus The name of Jesus holds profound significance in Christian faith. It is central to our prayers, our worship, and our hope. Through His name, we experience the power of salvation, healing, and reconciliation. The Apostle Paul reflects on the majesty of Jesus’ name in his letter to the Philippians: Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. —Philippians 2:9-11 To invoke the name of Jesus is to proclaim His lordship and to honor the immeasurable gift of His presence in our lives. It is a name that unites heaven and earth, calling us to bow in humility and gratitude before the one who came to save us. How to celebrate the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus Make God Cakes. In Coventry, England, it is traditional to visit your godchild on this day and bring them “God-cakes.” God Cakes are little triangular cakes (in honor of the Trinity) with sweet filling. Wear white. In Brazil, Christians dress in white, symbolizing forgiveness of sins for the previous year and the purity of a new year and new life in Christ. Wake up early. In Switzerland, the day is also known as Saint Sylvester's Day. In the morning, children compete with one another to see who can wake up the earliest; the child who wakes up the latest is playfully teased. Ring bells and yodel. For centuries, huge festivals have been held in regions of Switzerland. Men masquerade as Silvesterklaus, a masked person in an elaborate costume, taking part in Saint Sylvester’s Day festivities. In Appenzell, Switzerland, the Silvesterkläuse put on their strange costumes, rang huge bells, sang a very slow yodel, and walked in small groups from house to house, wishing people a happy new year. Do the devotion for the day. Devotion for the Day Light the Christ candle. 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: Eternal Father, you gave to your incarnate Son the holy name of Jesus to be the sign of our salvation: Plant in every heart, we pray, the love of him who is the Savior of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen . Read Luke 2:21 21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child,he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived. Read Philippians 2:9-11 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place     and gave him the name that is above every name, 10  that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,     in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11  and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,     to the glory of God the Father. 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. the recipe -

In many countries throughout the world, December 31st is considered the last day of the calendar year. Traditionally, it begins as a day of strict fasting, abstinence, and confession to emphasize the seriousness and thoughtfulness of the day. Another year is over and a new one is about to begin. This is a wonderful time to look back over the entire year and reflect on all of the good things and the bad things that have happened. It is a time to thank God for all of the good and to also thank Him for how He redeemed or is redeeming the bad. Ways to Celebrate On New Year's Eve, it is traditional in France and other European countries for the father to bless all members of the family and for the children to offer thanks to their parents for all of their love and care. Hold your own service for New Year’s Eve in your home where you can thank God for the blessings of the past year and seek blessings for the year to come. We commend it all to the mercies of God and we sanctify these moments with our Lord's blessing. Devotion for New Year’s Eve Light the Christ candle. 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: Almighty God, you are the source of all life, you are the giver of all blessings and the Savior of all who turn to you: Have mercy upon this nation; deliver us from lies, anger, and disobedience; turn our feet into your paths; and grant that we may serve you in peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 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. After the devotion is over, serve hot chocolate or punch. Have everyone raise a glass and wish each other a "Happy New Year". In many European countries, they celebrate the Eve of St. Sylvester tonight.  St. Sylvester was the pope who baptized Constantine the Great and Constantine the Great was the Roman Emperor who ended the long persecution of the Christians. Constantine ushered in a new era of freedom and peace for Christians. In Austria, they eat krapfen, or apricot jam doughnuts, when the clock strikes twelve on New Year's Eve.