The Three Epiphanies

Epiphany

There are actually three Epiphanies celebrated at Epiphanytide: the Visitation of the Magi, Jesus’s Baptism by his cousin in the River Jordan, and the miracle at the Wedding of Cana. All three events are moments when Christ’s divinity manifested itself to the world, to people outside of his family.

The Eastern Church celebrates these three events as the Theophany, or the Appearance of God. In Eastern Orthodox communities, January 6 is celebrated with a cold water plunge, often in search of a special cross in the water to celebrate Jesus’ baptism.

Photo: St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral Epiphany at Spring Bayou, Tarpon Springs, Florida, January 6, 2025, from the Tampa Bay Times

The Western tradition recognizes the baptism and the wedding on the two successive Sundays after January 6, primarily through the Gospel readings.

Today, let us consider the three Epiphanies with these three paintings by the Spanish artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. How are these three vignettes related to one another? How do they relate to the words manifest and flesh, Epiphanies and Carnivals?

The Adoration of the Magi, 1660

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Matthew 2:11

The Baptism of Christ, 1655

Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”

Mark 1: 9-11

The Marriage Feast at Cana, 1672

This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory. And his disciples believed in him.

John 2:11

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From the Community: Do you have a crèche at home? Send me a photo of your nativity scenes to share with the group on Thursday.