THEMES

The Homiletic Directory offers the following Catechism points and themes for the Solemnity of the Epiphany:

• CCC 528, 724: the Epiphany
• CCC 280, 529, 748, 1165, 2466, 2715: Christ the light of the nations
• CCC 60, 442, 674, 755, 767, 774-776, 781, 831: the Church, sacrament of human unity

IN BRIEF

God’s Light and Salvation

In Isaiah 60:1-2, the image of God’s glory shining upon Jerusalem parallels the Catholic teaching on divine revelation. The Church believes that God reveals Himself through Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium, guiding believers toward salvation. Similarly, Ephesians 3:5 discusses the revelation of the “mystery of Christ,” emphasizing the Church’s role in illuminating God’s truth.

Unity in Christ

Ephesians 3:6 and Matthew 2:1-12 highlight unity among believers, reflecting the Catholic doctrine of the Church as the Body of Christ. This unity transcends divisions, as seen in the Magi’s recognition of Jesus as the Messiah despite their non-Jewish background (Matthew 2:2). The Church teaches that all believers share in Christ’s body through baptism, emphasizing unity and solidarity among members.

Christ as King and Messiah

Isaiah 60:3 and Matthew 2:2 portray Christ as a king and savior, aligning with the Catholic belief in Jesus as the Messiah and Son of God. The Church proclaims Jesus’ kingship and affirms that through His sacrifice, salvation is offered to all.

Grace and Divine Mystery

Ephesians 3:2-3a and Isaiah 60:1 emphasize the role of grace in revealing God’s mystery and plan. This theme resonates with Catholic teachings on grace, which stress the necessity of God’s grace for understanding His divine will.