Star Words for 2025: Illuminating Our Journeys

1/10/2025

As we step into the season of Epiphany and embrace a new year, we’re invited to reflect on the journey ahead.

Like the magi who followed a star to Bethlehem, our paths are often illuminated by unexpected light, guiding us toward revelation and growth. Whether we travel with intention or react to life’s unfolding moments, this season encourages us to pause and consider: Where are we headed? What gifts do we bring? What do we need to release or discover?

The story of the magi is a profound reminder of perseverance. These mysterious travelers journeyed over 650 miles, following a star to witness the manifestation of God. Despite delays and hardships, their persistence in seeking light changed their lives forever. Likewise, the tale of Artaban, the “fourth wise man” created by Henry Van Dyke, beautifully illustrates how acts of compassion can illuminate the divine in our everyday lives. Artaban’s lifelong journey to find Jesus led him to discover that the light of Christ was present in the kindness he offered to others.

Often our students teach us the very best lessons about perseverance. This quote is from a Senior Chapel Talk in 2023. "The beauty of perseverance is that it has no limits." - Marisol Helms '23, Senior Chapel Talk

Perseverance is an important theme in the story of The Other Wiseman" by Henry Van Dyke. We hope you'll read this classic. "Perseverance means persistence in doing something, despite difficulty or delay in achieving success." - Beth Barksdale's Epiphany Reflection

At Chatham Hall, we mark this season with a practice tied to Epiphany: sharing Star Words. Each community member receives a word—a simple guide to reflect on throughout the year. These words serve as beacons, inviting us to consider their meanings, reflect on their relevance, and find inspiration in their guidance.

Prompts for Using Your Star Word in 2025:

Look up the definition and etymology of your word to uncover deeper insights.
Reflect on how this word connects to your experiences or memories.
Search for your word in meaningful texts—secular or spiritual—and explore its context.
Create a song, poem, or prayer inspired by your word.
Keep your word visible as a reminder of your intentions for the year.

As we journey together into 2025, may we embrace life’s mysteries with patience and persistence. Like the magi, may we follow the light we see, step by step, trusting it to lead us. In the words of Jan Richardson: “One of the mercies of the road is that we see it only by stages, as it opens before us... There is nothing for it but to go.”

This year, let your Star Word be your guide. May it inspire you to persevere, reflect, and grow. Amen.

Back