I had an Epiphany at the Festival

Yesterday, I blogged about Epiphany AND we celebrated it in Fort Worth. It was the 12th and final day of Christmas, as well as the day that the Magi offered their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the Christ Child in the Holy Family’s home.

I certainly had an “epiphany” (that’s an ah-ha moment when a light comes on in our minds and we suddenly understand something).

We traveled back in time to the 14th Century and experienced University Christian Church’s 43rd Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival. There was a cast of lords and ladies, sprites and dancers who all came to worship and guide us to the newly born Christ child in a manger scene.

Today I am still immersed in the conquering celebration of Christ’s teachings of good over evil. This medieval festival was originally based on an old legend of an Oxford student, who, while studying in the forest, was attacked by a wild boar. The student used his book, a volume of Aristotle’s works, to kill the boar.

When the UCC Church, directly across from Texas Christian University campus, adopted this story, it became more than just a symbol. It was a annual production of unimaginable splendor. My husband had attended it a couple of times before and insisted we go see it again. I am so glad we did.

There was never a dull moment in the fast-moving production made possible by the commitment of more than 300 cast members, musicians, and technical crew. Not the typical magi in bathrobes, but regal Renaissance apparel that had been designed and stitched over 47 years ago. Obviously, those costumes were made to last.

We felt the floor shake and our excitement rose as the Beefeaters made their way into the Sanctuary. The enchantment of the Renaissance came to life through stunning costumes and masterfully composed music performed by the members of the UCC Chancel Choir, Youth Bell Choirs and the Fort Worth Civic Orchestra.

The Archangel Gabriel’s stunning, enormous wings as well as other glorious angels with him, pronounced the birth of the Christ Child. And then the wise men aka kings delivered their treasures to the Holy Family.

The grand finale came as the enormous, paneled doors opened wide to the Holy Family and the Christ Child being represented by a live, squirming baby who was lifted up in honor for all to see and believe.

What more can I say, except if you are in the area, or like us who traveled hours to attend, I assure you it is worth the trip. Today, the performances will be at 3 pm and 5 pm.

God’s ultimate gift to us was portrayed. Indeed, our LIGHT has come. Our Savior left heaven’s glories to come to earth for you and me. What a gift! What a treasure!