January 6th is the feast of Epiphany. This might seem like a strange name but it means manifestation or revealing. It is the time when Jesus is shown to us as the Christ, the Son of God. It is also ‘Three Kings Day’ when the visit of the wise men from the East to see Jesus is remembered. Their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh were like a prophecy of Jesus’ future. A future King, the great High Priest, and the suffering on the cross.

Christian countries across the world celebrate Epiphany in many ways and traditions. Here in the UK it begins a period called ‘Epiphany tide’ which lasts until Candlemas on 2nd February’. It also marks 12th night when most people take down the Christmas decorations, though some keep them up until Candlemas.