Forty days after Christmas, the infant Jesus was presented in the temple of Jerusalem and placed in the arms of the old man Simeon (Luke 2:22-40) who declared:

Lord, you now have set your servant free 
to go in peace as you have promised; 
For these eyes of mine have seen the Savior, 
whom you have prepared for all the world to see:
A Light to enlighten the nations, 
and the glory of your people Israel.

In the Church, this day is celebrated on February 2, 40 days after Jesus’ birth. It is a major feast and is variously known as the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, the Feast of Meeting, the Purification of Mary, and Candlemas. Each name highlights a particular aspect of the day.

It is customary on Candlemas to bless candles – the candles to be used throughout the liturgical year, and candles that are given to the congregation to take home. The candlelight is an outward and visible sign of Christ, who illuminates our heart and inner being.

This Sunday, February 4, we will honor this feast day and bless candles for the year (and for you to take home, if you wish). Please feel free to bring your own (labeled) home candles and place them on the table to be blessed. See you Sunday!