Under the directive from the Diocese of Honolulu

St. Joseph Church has set up an egiving program to allow  parishioners and guests an easier way to give.  It will also allow the donors to: 1. Give from anywhere using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. 2. No need to find a check or stop by the ATM.  3. Use your Checking/Savings Account or your Debit/Credit Card. 4. Schedule gifts to occur automatically.    Click on the give now link or on your phone using my parish app.   “All must give as they are able, according to the blessings given to them by the Lord your God.”   Deuteronomy 16:17

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Saint Joseph Church Makawao - Bulletin

The Gospel Reading, Mathew 2:1-12   

The Magi seek out Jesus and do him homage.   

The visit of the Magi occurs directly before the story of the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt. Matthew’s Gospel tells a version of Jesus’ birth that is different than the one in Luke. Of the actual birth of Jesus, Matthew tells us little more than, “When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod . . . ” The story of the census is found only in Luke’s Gospel, but we hear about the visit of the Magi only in Matthew’s Gospel.

We know little about the Magi. They come from the East and journey to Bethlehem, following an astrological sign, so we believe them to be astrologers. We assume that there were three Magi based upon the naming of their three gifts. The Gospel does not say how many Magi paid homage to Jesus. In Matthew’s Gospel, they represent the Gentiles’ search for a savior. Because the Magi represent the entire world, they also represent our search for Jesus.

We have come to consider the gifts they bring as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ role in salvation. We believe the meaning of the gifts to be Christological. Gold is presented as representative of Jesus’ kingship. Frankincense is a symbol of his divinity because priests burned the substance in the Temple. Myrrh, which was used to prepare the dead for burial, is offered in anticipation of Jesus’ death.

The word Epiphany means “manifestation” or “showing forth.” Historically several moments in Christ’s early life and ministry have been celebrated as “epiphanies,” including his birth in Bethlehem, the visit of the Magi, his baptism by John, and his first miracle at Cana. ”    

— (https://www.loyolapress.com/catholic-resources/liturgical-year/sunday-connection )
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