Season of Epiphany
Jan 6 - Jan 31
The word Epiphany in Syriac is known as ‘Denha’. It means ‘dawn’ ‘revelation’ ‘manifestation’ etc. In this season, the Church recalls the manifestation of Jesus which began with his baptism at Jordan. Jesus reveals Himself to the world; Father and the Holy Spirit witness to it: ‘ This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased’ (Mt. 3:7). The mystery of the Holy Trinity is revealed at His baptism.
The Feast of Denha which is celebrated on 6th January is called ‘Pindikuthiperunnal’ by faithful who live in the northern part of Kerala and ‘Rakkuli’ by people of the south. ‘Pindikuthiperunnal’ originated from the practice of going around the ‘vazhapindi’ decorated with lights and singing ‘God is light’ commemorating Jesus the light of the world. The name ‘Rakkuli’ came from the ritual bath that our forefathers used to have in the river or pool near by, on the eve of the feast. It was a religious ceremony.
The saints who witnessed the revealed mystery of Christ through their lives are remembered by the Church on the fridays of this season. The most important themes commemorated during these days are the baptism of Jesus, His public life, His divine and human nature, His intimate relation with the Father and the Holy Spirit and his self-emptying love. In this season the Scriptural proclamations (readings) chosen are mainly connected with the public life of Jesus. This period reminds us of the baptism of Jesus and our own baptism and the responsibilities we have undertaken with it. Hence, let us strive hard to know Him more intensely and to live like the children of God during this season.
A Dream Come True
"How good it is, how pleasant, where the people dwell as one" Ps. 133:1
This church of ours is proof of how the dreams of a group of people united in Christ, living together in faith inherited from Mother Church, get realized through prayer and hard work!
I am blessed to be a part of this vibrant community that prays hard, works hard, and be a witness to miracles. The enthusiasm, energy, and commitment of the people of this community is not of this world, but rather, it is Heaven sent, and I thank God for it!
Now that we have our own Church, our dream for the next generation is closer to reality. Many of us are here with our strong faith and Christ centered lifestyle because of the ecclesial, liturgical, cultural, and social heritage that we received from our parents. It is now our responsibility to proclaim our faith, live our tradition, and pass these Christian values and heritage on to the next generation.
I thank everyone who has helped to make this church a reality, and invite everyone to participate even more actively in our mission.
May God Bless us all.
Fr. George Maliekal (Vicar)