Description
Begin the new year with a simple spiritual practice that invites your congregation to pay attention to where God may be leading.
Star words are an Epiphany tradition in which each person receives a word to accompany them throughout the coming year. Inspired by the Magi who followed a star to Jesus, the practice encourages participants to return to their word in prayer, notice where it appears in their daily lives and remain curious about what God might reveal through it.
This resource from the Presbyterian Outlook gives pastors and worship leaders everything they need to introduce star words to their congregation and incorporate the practice into Epiphany worship.
Inside this resource, you’ll find:
- An introduction to the star word practice and its connection to the Epiphany story
- Simple instructions for preparing and distributing star words in your congregation
- A ready-to-use invitation for introducing the practice during worship
- A prayer for receiving star words
- Links to additional Epiphany and star word resources
- A PDF with words written in stars, ready for you to print, cut and use in worship.
Use the resource during your Epiphany worship service, at a congregational gathering or with a small group. Keep extra stars on hand to share with members who are absent or visitors who arrive in the weeks ahead.
The Presbyterian Outlook is a nonprofit ministry. Your optional donation helps us continue creating practical, thoughtful resources for pastors, worship leaders and congregations. Whether or not you choose to donate, we hope this resource supports your ministry and helps your congregation enter the new year attentive to God’s presence and guidance.
About the author
Karie Charlton is a PC(USA) pastor, writer and menstrual health advocate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She writes at Period Pastor and can also be found on Facebook and Instagram at @periodpastor.
