As we approach the feast of Candlemas, I
wanted to take a moment to share the significance of this beautiful tradition in our church.

Candlemas, celebrated on February 2, marks the presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a day when we reflect on the light that Christ brings into the world and the symbolism of candles as a representation of that divine light. This feast day holds historical and spiritual importance as it emphasizes the theme of Christ as the Light of the World.

February 2 is exactly forty days after December 25, the nativity of Jesus. Jewish law (Ex 13:2, 12) dictated that Jesus, as the firstborn, be consecrated to God. This was done by the parents as they presented their Son in the Temple.

Jewish law further specified (Lv 12:2-8) that a mother was ritually impure after giving birth, and that she had to wait a set period of time (forty days for a boy) before she was to offer a sacrifice to the Lord for purification.

The convergence of these two Jewish regulations occasions Luke’s account of both the Presentation of the Lord and the Purification of Mary. These days the liturgical emphasis is more on the Presentation of Jesus. Luke highlights the role of Simeon and Anna, two righteous Jews who recognized Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and praised God for being able to see and experience such a marvel in their lifetimes.

Simeon’s prayer concerning the special role of Jesus states that Jesus is “a light for revelation to the Gentiles.” This phrase eventually originated the custom of blessing candles on this day which were to be used in the ceremonies, rituals, and processions throughout the church year. Thus February 2 is also known as Candlemas Day. This day is indeed a rich feast to be savored.

This ritual is a poignant reminder of the symbolic role of light in our faith. By blessing candles, we seek to imbue them with sacred significance, using them not only as sources of physical light but also as reminders of the spiritual illumination that Christ brings to our lives.

I invite you to join us for a special celebration on Friday, February 2, 2024, in commemoration of Candlemas. We will be holding our Daily Mass at 8 am, where we will reflect on the historical and spiritual aspects of this feast day. Additionally, we will have our First Friday Adoration at 6 pm at which we will pray Vespers. During both of these celebrations, candles will be blessed for use in our church as well as at our homes.

If you have candles at home that hold special meaning for you or your family, feel free to bring them to either celebration for a special blessing. Let us gather together in prayer, reflecting on the light of Christ and seeking His blessings for the candles that will accompany us in our homes.

Your presence will add to the spiritual richness of our community as we come together to celebrate this beautiful tradition. I look forward to sharing this meaningful occasion with you and witnessing the radiant glow of our collective faith.

May the light of Christ guide and bless you always.