Epiphany, like Christmas, is celebrated in various ways by different nationalities and cultures. The customs and traditions surrounding these daysgive them a distinct feel and meaning.
In many Slavic traditions, Epiphany is observed by marking the year on the mantle of the entrance to a room or house. In the center are the initials of the traditional names of the three wise men: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar. The purpose is to ask God's blessing on the home, marking it as though the Wise Men had come and found therein the Christ Child. It reminds us of the marking of the doorways in Egypt with the blood of the lamb so that the angel of death would pass over. God's blessing comes to each home as a source of protection and grace.
In some places, Epiphany is celebrated much like a mini-Christmas. Gifts are exchanged in memory of the gifts of the Wise Men and special meals are prepared. In any event, the manifestation of Christ as the Light of the World is a time to seek God's blessing and rejoice in the gift of Jesus to us and to all the world.
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