The Transfiguration of the Lord

The Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke tell how Jesus took Peter, James and John up a high mountain, which tradition identifies as Mount Tabor in Galilee. There He was transfigured before them: His face shone like the sun and His clothes became dazzling white. Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets, appeared and spoke with Him about His coming death in Jerusalem. A bright cloud overshadowed them, and the voice of the Father declared Jesus His beloved Son and told the disciples to listen to Him.

The event came shortly after Jesus first foretold His Passion, and it gave the apostles a glimpse of His glory so that they would not lose hope when they saw Him suffer. It also reveals the destiny of all who follow Him: to share in His risen life. The feast was long celebrated in the East and was extended to the whole Western Church by Pope Callixtus III in 1457.

In El Salvador, whose name honors the Divine Savior of the World, August 6 is the high point of the national fiestas agostinas, with the traditional Bajada procession in San Salvador and a solemn Mass for the patron of the country.

In Eastern Christian churches, grapes and other first fruits are blessed on this day.