The story of the Magi reveals something essential about who God is: God is a God who calls people to journey. From the time of Abraham, God has invited people to step out in faith, to trust, and to move forward even when the destination is not yet clear. The Magi respond to this same call. Guided by a star, they leave behind what is familiar and follow God’s invitation into the unknown. Along the way, they encounter not only a child in Bethlehem, but new life and deeper communion with God.

In the Western Christian tradition, the Feast of the Epiphany highlights Christ’s manifestation to the Magi, representing the revelation of the Savior to all nations. In the Eastern Christian tradition, Epiphany emphasizes the Baptism of the Lord in the Jordan, where Jesus is revealed as the beloved Son of the Father. Together, these traditions proclaim one truth: Jesus Christ is made known as the Light sent by God for all humanity.

The word Epiphany means “manifestation.” What was hidden is now revealed; darkness gives way to light. In Jesus Christ, God makes himself known—not only long ago in Bethlehem, but here and now. Christ remains Emmanuel, God-with-us, revealing himself through the events of our lives and most especially through the Eucharist.

At St. Raymond Parish, a community rich in cultures, languages, and traditions, the Feast of the Epiphany speaks directly to who we are. Like the Magi—who came from different lands and backgrounds—we gather as one parish from many cultures to worship the same Lord. Epiphany invites us to welcome one another, to honor our diversity as a gift, and to see it as a sign that the Gospel truly belongs to all peoples.

For the life of our parish, this feast challenges us to be a guiding star for others. Through our hospitality, ministries, and service to those in need, St. Raymond is called to reveal Christ to the wider community. When we pray together, serve together, and walk together despite our differences, we become a living manifestation of God’s presence in the world.

Like the Magi, we come to worship. Like the Magi, we are changed by our encounter with Christ. And like the Magi, we are sent forth to return “by another way”—transformed, renewed, and carrying the light of Christ into our families, our neighborhoods, and our multicultural parish community as we continue to grow into being the Body of Christ.

Fr. Mark Hoc

(For the Epiphany of Our Lord, 2026)