Delivering food, shelter, and hope to the poorest of the poor
The 12th Day After Christmas
The roots of our modern-day Epiphany are many. The
word itself comes from a Greek word that means “appearance” or “to show oneself.” As Catholics, we observe Epiphany as the day the three kings visited Jesus and acknowledged him as the savior the world had been waiting for. We know that they were scientists who studied
astronomy, math and probably medicine. They were aware
of the prophecies of the birth of God’s Son and the salvation that he would bring to the world. They looked for a sign of the Messiah’s birth in the stars. When the brightest star they had ever seen appeared in the sky, the kings knew that they had to follow it to find the Son of God.
Scripture Meditations and Reflections:
Isaiah 60:1-6 • Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6 • Matthew 2:1-12
Verse to Memorize
On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Matthew 2:11
Fundraising Activity
“Happy Birthday, Jesus” Party
Our special Advent campaign is designed to raise money to build homes for Haitian families who currently live in small stick-and-mud huts with flimsy roofs made of rusted metal sheets.
By now, the kids should have their collection boxes — their gifts for the Christ child — all ready to go. Now it’s time to have a birthday party for Jesus! This party should be the culmination of your fundraising efforts throughout Advent and Christmas. If your parish allows food celebrations, you could bring in cupcakes and share a traditional “King’s Cake” with your class. Present the king with a construction paper crown.
To donate the money raised by participating in activities from the Advent Activity Guide, submit your donation below:
Housing Fact and Prayer
One eighth of the world’s population — almost 1 billion people — currently live in slums.
UN HABITAT SLUM ALMANAC
Dear Lord, we pray for all families living in an endless cycle of poverty in dangerous slum communities. Lead them out of the darkness of their misery and into the light of your love. Show them your faithful provision and unending mercy. In your name we pray, Amen.
For you have been a refuge to the poor, a refuge to the needy in their distress; Shelter from the rain, shade from the heat.
Isaiah 25:4
