The Feast of the Epiphany – is one of the most ancient holidays of the Christian Church, dedicated to the Baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. This is an event in gospel history, and its establishment dates back to the times of the apostles.
In all historical churches, the Feast of Epiphany is tied to the ancient date of the Feast of Epiphany, that is, to January 6. In Orthodoxy, it belongs to the twelfths and is celebrated on January 19 according to the new style (that is, according to the old style – it is January 6). Moreover, «Epiphany» and «Baptism of the Lord» – are two names for one holiday.
Unlike Orthodoxy, in the Catholic Church of the Latin Rite, Epiphany and Epiphany – are different holidays, of which Epiphany, celebrated on January 6, is dedicated to the remembrance of the arrival of the Magi (or three kings). Epiphany is celebrated on the first Sunday after the Feast of Epiphany and, as it were, ends Christmas time. The same tradition is followed in a number of Protestant denominations.
According to the gospel story, Jesus Christ came to John the Baptist, who was near the Jordan River in Bethabara (John 1:28) (at the age of 30 – Luke 3:23) to receive baptism. John, who himself preached a lot about the imminent coming of the Messiah, saw Jesus and said in surprise: «I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?». To which Jesus replied that « we must fulfill all truth», in other words, the will of the Father, and was baptized by John. During baptism « the sky opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on Him in bodily form, like a dove, and there was a voice from heaven saying: You are My Beloved Son; My favor is in You!» (Luke 3:21-22).
Also according to the Gospel account, after the baptism of Jesus «John also baptized in Enon, near Salem, because there was a lot of water there; and they came [there] and were baptized» (John 3:23). And Jesus, led by the Spirit, retired into the wilderness to prepare in solitude, prayer and fasting for the fulfillment of the mission with which he came to earth.
Thus, the messianic destiny of Jesus was publicly attested by Baptism. And the Baptism of Christ, which took place then, is considered by all evangelists as the first event in His social activities. It was after him that Jesus began to enlighten people, illuminating them with the light of truth.
In addition, in the Baptism of Christ, humanity became familiar with His Divine grace, receiving in this sacrament purification with living water, giving eternal life. After all, by accepting the Sacrament of Baptism, a person becomes involved in the life of Him, who died on the Cross in order to free people from sin. Therefore, the acceptance of the sacrament of Baptism is a prerequisite for believers to belong to the Church.