Christ Lutheran hosts candlelight Epiphany

Members of Christ Lutheran Church in Superior and local congregations of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod invite the community to participate in a family night out Jan. 6 for a 6:30 p.m. festive candlelight Epiphany service.

This service engages all five senses through candles, lights, incense, myrrh, bells, music, carols, Holy Communion and Holy Scripture, and the burning of the Christmas trees. Guest preacher is the Rev. John Wurst, pastor of Lutheran Church of Christ the King of Duluth.

The festivities are in celebration of the Epiphany of Jesus Christ. Epiphany recalls how magi from Persia – the area of modern Iran and Iraq – followed a star to Bethlehem to worship Jesus as the newborn King of Israel.

According to Matthew, they navigated by following a star, which came to be known as the Star of Bethlehem. As they approached Jerusalem, Herod tried to trick them into revealing where Jesus was, so that he might be put to death. Upon finding Jesus, the Magi gave him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Christians proclaim that Jesus, as the Savior of all people, is one who can unify divided peoples whether in the Middle East or elsewhere. According to the New Testament, the magi’s presence indicates that Jesus came to die as an atoning sacrifice not only for the Jewish people, but for all people. Because God accepted Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, the New Testament declares that people of all races and nations are welcomed into God’s Kingdom through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.

The burning of the greens signifies Jesus the Christ, the Light of the world, coming into the darkness of the world. By sacrificing Himself Jesus gave the light of salvation to humankind. The tree ashes will be spread in local gardens, completing the cycle of life. After the burning of the trees and singing of Christmas carols outside of the church, hot chocolate and cider will be served. You may bring Christmas cookies to share. Dress warmly and bring your tree, if you have one that you cannot be recycled in another way.

Christ Lutheran Church is east of the Mariner Mall at 320 N. 28th St. E. in Superior. Call (715) 398-3680 for additional information. The public is cordially invited.

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