Feast of the Epiphany – Year B
January 8, 2006

Intermediate Session
Isaiah 60:1-6
Matthew 2:1-12

Opening Prayer

Let us pray.
God of Light, thank you for the gift of Jesus, the Light of the world.
Help us to spread the light of your love to others.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.

Opening Life Reflection

The theme for today is God’s Universal Offer of Salvation. To begin provide the children with pencils and several stars cut from white paper, large enough to write a message inside. Invite the children to think of what gifts of Christmas last all year. After a moment of quiet, invite the children to write the gifts of Christmas that last all year long inside the stars. Ask volunteers to share what they have written in their stars with the group. Discuss:

• What does the image of a star remind us of?
• How can you cherish the gift of Christmas all year long?
• What do the three Magi teach us about Christmas gifts that last?
Allow time for discussion. On today’s feast of the Epiphany, the Magi show us that the lasting gift of Christmas is Jesus, the Light of the world. God’s gift of salvation in Jesus is offered for all people.

Listening to the Word of God

In the Old Testament reading today listen to how the light of God’s love shines for all.

Read Isaiah 60:1-6.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters

• What message does the prophet Isaiah give to God’s people?
• Who does the light of God’s love shine for?
• What riches will be brought to the Lord?

In the gospel today listen to how the shining light of a star guides the Magi to Jesus.

Read Matthew 2:1-12.
Allow for silence.

• What happens when the Magi visit King Herod?
• How do the Magi find Jesus?
• What happens when the Magi see Jesus and his Mother Mary?
• What gifts do the Magi bring?

Scripture Background

Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings using the Catechist Background section.

On The Feast of the Epiphany we celebrate how God revealed Jesus to the Magi. The Magi, who are Gentiles, symbolize that God’s offer of salvation is for all people.

The Old Testament reading shows tells of the joy felt by the Israelites after their return from Exile. God’s promise to save the people has been fulfilled and God’s saving love shines before the entire world. God is kind and forgiving and all people from every nation are drawn to Jerusalem to give praise to the Lord.

In today’s gospel the Magi come from different lands in search of the Savior. The Magi—foreigners—are drawn to the Savior by the light of a star. These strangers find the Christ child and adore him. The Magi are overwhelmed with joy as they kneel to pay homage to the child Jesus. The Magi show that God’s saving love is for all people.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• Why is God’s gift of salvation offered for all people?
• How does the light of God’s love guide you?
• What gifts do you bring to Jesus?

[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]

Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Universal Offer of Salvation
The Church teaches that Christ is the light of all nations. The Feast of the Epiphany reminds us that all people are drawn to and find salvation in the radiance of God’s light. The word Epiphany means “showing forth” or “manifestation.” It is Jesus, the Word made flesh, who is shown as the light for all people. We believe that all people are meant to share in the banquet of God’s love. The Church helps to proclaim God’s universal gift of salvation throughout the world.

• How does the Church spread the message of God’s saving love?
• Why does God love all people equally?
• How can you help others understand the gift of God’s love?

Sacrament Connection
In the Sacrament of Eucharist, we celebrate the Paschal mystery. The Paschal mystery is Jesus’ passing from death to new life. Through this mystery, God’s plan of salvation is fulfilled in Jesus.

Connecting to Faith Firs® Legacy Edition
Grade 4, p. 249
Grade 5, p. 249 and chapter 10
Grade 6, p. 249 and chapter 10

Connecting to Faith First®
Grade 4, p. 288
Grade 5, p. 288 and chapter 10
Grade 6, p. 288 and chapter 10

The Gospel in Life
How can you bring the light of God’s love to others this week?