Grade Five - The Feast of Transfiguration

The Feast of the Transfiguration is a very special day in the Catholic Calendar, celebrated each year on August 6th. 

The word "transfiguration" might sound a bit big, but it means a change in form or what something looks like. On this day, we remember a time when Jesus’ appearance was changed right in front of some of his friends.

It's an amazing story from the Gospel. One day, Jesus took three of his disciples — Peter, James, and John — up a high mountain. As they were there, something incredible happened.

Suddenly, Jesus’ face began to shine like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white, brighter than anything they had ever seen. The disciples were amazed and a little scared, but that wasn't all! Two other famous people from the Old Testament, Moses and Elijah, appeared and were talking with Jesus. Then, a bright cloud came over them, and a voice from the cloud said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him."

This was God's voice, telling the disciples that Jesus was truly his Son and that they should listen to everything Jesus had to say.

So, why do we remember this day? The Transfiguration was a moment where Jesus showed his true glory and divinity to his friends. It was a sneak peek of what was to come after his Resurrection. It also gave Peter, James, and John a great deal of strength and hope. They had been following Jesus, but seeing his glory helped them to believe even more strongly in who he was.

For us, the Feast of the Transfiguration reminds us that Jesus is not just a good man or a great teacher, but he is the Son of God. It encourages us to listen to his words and follow his example. It's a day for us to feel proud of our faith and to remember that Jesus' light and love can shine through us, too, if we let it.