Grace Episcopal Church's 'Epiphany of Lights' Celebration happening Friday evening

While most are tossing out their Christmas trees and greenery, the parishioners at Grace Episcopal Church have only begun preparing for their annual “Feast of Lights” celebration of Epiphany, which commemorates Christ’s manifestation to the gentiles upon arrival of the Magi delivering gifts to honor the Christ child.  Wreaths and greenery along with luminaries and candles will continue to decorate the church at 419 South Main Street until January 6, 2023, the date recognized as that upon which the light of Christ was first made known to the world. 

Since 1985, this unique service has been conducted at Grace Church to depict the spread of the “light” of the Christian gospel from Christ to his disciples, to all Bishops, Priests, Deacons and to laypersons through apostolic succession.  This ancient observance of the Feast of Lights had its origin in the Eastern Church, even predating the observance of Christmas by the Western Church, and inaugurates the great missionary season of the Church.  The celebration concludes the “twelve days of Christmas” recognized in the West, which begins December 25 and ends on Epiphany.  Costumed Wise Men make their solemn appearance during the service, carrying to the altar gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, and carrying out of the church candles lit from the Christ candle. 

The service closes with liturgy tracing the apostolic succession from Christ to his disciples, clergy, and laypersons utilizing the passing of light from 12 candles upon the altar and then to parishioners as a symbol of peace and hope to be shared with the world.

The public is invited to participate in this unique service, which will be held on Friday, January 6, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of Grace Episcopal Church, 419 South Main Street, Lexington, NC.