February 2, 2020
The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord marks 40 days since the joyful celebration of Christmas, or, The Nativity. Prior to the revision of the Roman Missal after the Second Vatican Council, February 2 marked the official end of the Christmas Season. It was also known as Candlemass Day, with a grand procession and the blessing of candles. Since the revision the official end of the Christmas Season is now the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord.
We still hold on to beautiful traditions. Recalling the presentation of the infant Jesus in the Temple and remembering the Canticle of Simeon, we bump up the festive character of Sunday just a little. This year we will begin our Sunday Eucharist with a blessing of Candles and a special procession. We will bless altar candles used at Eucharist. We will bless vigil candles used at Adoration. We will bless retreat candles used for prayer services. We will bless candles big and small as they will provide for us, in the coming year, light and grace.
You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own and your family prayer candles to Eucharist this weekend. We will bless them also and ask that they be the light of Christ for you and others throughout the year.
my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples:
a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and glory for your people Israel!