The celebration of Epiphany arose in the East and later was adopted by the western church. It was only later still that it became associated with the coming of the magi and an occasion to celebrate the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles. Originally, some in the east celebrated three great epiphanies on this day, the nativity of Christ, His baptism and the sign of changing water to wine at the wedding of Cana.
A woman named Egeria took a tour of biblical sites that included Egypt, Arabia, Jerusalem and the holy places in its environs, Antioch, Tarsus, Constantinople, Greece and more. This took place in the late 300’s. She left an extensive journal describing her journey, plus details concerning worship.
She was in Palestine for the celebration of Epiphany which lasted for eight days. The celebration began in Bethlehem. Then the monks and others walked slowly to Jerusalem in order to arrive just before daybreak. They went to the Anastasis (resurrection) which was lit be a large number of lights. There, the service included psalms and prayer. The bishop blessed the catechumens (those who were preparing to join the church) all the monks and worshippers. After the service everyone went home to rest, while the monks remained to recite hymns. An hour after sunrise everyone gathered at the greater church located at Golgotha. This church was built by Constantine and adorned at the instigation of his mother. It was decorated with gold and gems. Veils and curtains were of silk striped with gold.
The service at the Golgotha church included preaching, lessons, and hymns. Then everyone went to the Anastasis for another service that lasted until the sixth hour (probably noon) to go home to rest. The second and third days followed the same pattern. On the fourth day the Mt. of Olives was included. On day five they walked 1,500 paces outside Jerusalem to the Lazarium. Zion was included on the sixth day. Then back to the Anastasis for the seventh day. The festival included the place of the Cross on the eighth day.
The whole week was filled with joyous celebrations with churches, clergy and people arrayed in festal adornments and garments. The celebration also continued in Bethlehem for the eight day period.
Egeria reported that immense crowds both men and women flocked together to Jerusalem from every quarter for the observance of the eighth and concluding day of the festival.
To You, O Lord, all glory be
For this Your blest epiphany;
To God, whom all His hosts adore,
And Holy Spirit evermore. LSB 401, 6
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