The celebration of the Epiphany, January 6, at Sacred Heart began with singing for the Christ Child and the entrance of the godparents, Teresa and Francisco Garay. (It is a custom in Mexico to find "padrinos," godparents or sponsors, for Baby Jesus, "Niño Dios," who are responsible for making new clothing for the infant and for dressing Him in front of all the people attending. This custom varies a bit from state to state in Mexico.) Then the gospel according to Mathew chapter 2:1-12 was read and the Wise Men made their entrance bringing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh and prostrating themselves to honor the new-born king.
Jorge Reyes acted as a translator for questions from the children to the wise men. One little girl asked, "How did you know that this was the child you were looking for?" The man from the far east explained that they believed what had been written in the Sacred Scriptures, that a king would be born to be the Messiah. The Wise Men then followed the star that lead them to Bethelem.
After the Wise Men answered questions, they gave presents to the children, sang to Baby Jesus and then everybody enjoyed a Mexican hot chocolate and traditional "Rosca de Reyes," Three Kings Cake or Kings Day Mexican Sweet Bread.
Top photo, godparents Teresa and Francisco Garay dress Baby Jesus in the hand-knitted garment.
Middle photo, the Three Kings, Francisco Fabian in purple, Ruperto Mariscal in red, and Agustin Paez in silver, pay homage to the Christ Child.
Bottom photo, the children receive presents from the Wise Men.
This story and photos courtesy of Ana L. Galván de Tiscareño.
