Dear Parishioner,
This Sunday, February 2nd, we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas. This day blends biblical tradition with liturgical symbolism, offering us a chance to reflect on Christ’s light in our lives.
Candlemas commemorates two key events: the ritual purification of Mary 40 days after Jesus’ birth and the presentation of the infant Jesus in the Temple at Jerusalem. In the Gospel of Luke, we learn that Jesus was met by Anna and Simeon in the temple. Simeon, holding the baby Jesus, declared Him to be a Light to the World.
The name “Candlemas” comes from the tradition of blessing all the Church’s candles for the year on this day. Many people also place lit candles in their windows at home on Candlemas night, symbolizing Christ’s light.
Interestingly, Candlemas has roots in pre-Christian traditions as a festival of light. It marked the midpoint of winter, halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Weather predictions were often associated with this day, as reflected in the old verse:
“If Candlemas Day be fair and bright
Winter will have another fight.
If Candlemas Day brings cloud and rain,
Winter won’t come again.”
Fans of the film Groundhog Day might recognize a similar tradition. In North American folklore, if Punxsutawney Phil, the groundhog, emerges from his burrow on February 2nd and sees his shadow, he retreats, signalling six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t see his shadow, spring is on its way.
Returning to the Gospel, the Feast of the Presentation shows Mary and Joseph’s deep faith and humility as they fulfil the requirements of Jewish law. They offer a modest sacrifice of two doves or pigeons, a sign of their simple life. While at the temple, they encounter Simeon and Anna—two elderly, devout individuals who immediately recognise the child’s significance.
Simeon’s prayer, the Nunc Dimittis, is a profound hymn of praise and prophecy, proclaiming Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. Anna, too, shares the joy of this moment, speaking of Jesus to all who await the redemption of Jerusalem.
The Gospel reading highlights the fulfilment of God’s promises. Simeon, guided by the Holy Spirit, had been assured he would not die before seeing the Messiah. His encounter with Jesus brings him profound joy. Similarly, Anna’s years of prayer and fasting lead her to this sacred moment of recognition and proclamation.
This theme of fulfilled promises resonates with our own lives. Like Simeon and Anna, we are called to trust in God’s faithfulness, even in times of waiting and uncertainty. Candlemas encourages us to stay vigilant, hopeful, and open to encountering Christ in unexpected ways.
As we reflect on this feast, we are reminded of the light we are called to share with others. In a world often overshadowed by division, suffering, and despair, our faith in Christ compels us to be sources of hope, compassion, and reconciliation. Candlemas is not only about celebrating Christ as the light of the world but also about renewing our commitment to reflect His light in our daily lives.
Yours in Christ,
Deacon Ian
