Three Wonders: A Celebration of Epiphany

Holy Innocents Fallowfield enjoyed a ‘Three Wonders’ Epiphany celebration – bringing together the Magi, the baptism of Christ and the wedding at Cana, using the Common Worship provision. Each had a procession with gifts – to the crib, the font and the altar – and at the offertory all were invited to lay a paper heart before the Christ child as Patrick (of Croatian Orthodox tradition) sang ‘Three kings from Persian lands afar’, with its final words ‘offer thy heart’.

Reflecting on the service, the Revd Canon Michael Ainsworth said, “It was particularly moving for the Persian/Iranian members of the congregation, who love liturgical action as well as words, and like all of us were mindful of the latest crisis affecting family and friends. Fr Bill Raines, former Rector of the parish, provided brief, challenging reflections on each ‘wonder’.”

The service drew on traditions from a variety of cultures to reflect the diversity of the congregation, creating a rich expression of unity in worship. This intercultural approach, which is always present at Holy Innocents, helps everyone feel represented and valued.

The service leaflet – available in both English and Farsi – and the streamed service, can be accessed on the parish website.