Dean's Message
An Epiphany Message from the Dean
Welcome to the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral. Come on in to visit, to pray, or join in with uplifting worship.
When you arrive at the Transitional Cathedral, you will find a crib scene depicting the new-born Christ and the Holy Family, which will now also show the arrival of the Magi, who, guided by a star, come with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. This is the second part of the story of Jesus’ birth that is celebrated at the Feast of The Epiphany, which this Cathedral observed on Sunday 8 January. This second feast (Epiphany), which is part of the Church’s season of Christmas, celebrates the glory of God in the new-born child being made available to all the world, with the arrival of Magi bearing their gifts.
The Magi, in the world of Jesus, were absolute outsiders; and it was these unexpected pilgrims who are among the first to be welcomed by Jesus. This will become a pattern in Jesus’ life, as he will welcome outsiders into the Kingdom of God and end up with two thieves as companions when he dies on the cross. When we see those Jesus connects with, and those to whom he opens his heart to welcome, we begin to see the height, depth, and breadth of God’s love which extends to all people everywhere. The Feast of Epiphany and the arrival of the Magi tell us all are called and welcomed by God, and that every human being is capable of reflecting the generosity of God and the glory of God. My prayer is that when you come to this Cathedral you will experience this welcome of God and know this God’s love is for you.
This is a great time to visit the Transitional Cathedral and all are welcome. The Transitional Cathedral remains “dressed” for Christmas. The beautiful nativity scene will remain in place for the month of January (until Candlemas) so that all can come and adore the Christ-child and make their hearts a place where he is welcome. The Christmas Tree is in place at present but will come down on Friday 7 January or soon after.
This Epiphany may Christ’s bright star enlighten your mind and heart and bring us all to see God at work in the world; and may you all know the blessing of God this Epiphany.
