Today, January 8th, is the feast of Saint Balthazar, one of the three kings.
Did you know that, of the three kings, King Balthazar is the most widely respected and has the greatest following? In fact, where you may assume the 3 kings are equally venerated, King Balthazar is often honored independently.
While it took almost 1000 years for him to be depicted as a man of African descent, King Balthazar was the king of Nubia and ruler of Ethiopia. Currently, he is viewed as a handsome and refined black man wearing a crown over his turban.
He visited the infant Jesus and brought the gifts of frankincense and myrrh, so these resins are often burned for him as an offering.
Saint King Balthazar is a popular patron Saint of those of African lineage, especially in South America. He is also popular among African communities in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay – where he is celebrated with parades and festivals.
Saint King Balthazar is the patron of travelers, motorists, those who manufacture playing cards, and those who work with saws. He is also invoked to heal and prevent seizure disorders.
Today, why not burn some frankincense and myrrh to honor the benevolent energy of Saint King Balthazar?
Welcome 2023!