Candlemas

Friday, February 2:

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

Friday marks the 40th day after Christmas, and the Church celebrates the joyful event recounted in the Gospel of St. Luke—the Presentation of the Infant Jesus in the Temple when he was 40 days old.

There he was recognized by Anna and Simeon, two elderly people of great holiness. Simeon took Jesus in his arms and was filled with joy. He said he could die in peace, having seen the Messiah—the light of revelation to the Gentiles and glory for God’s people, Israel. He also spoke to the sadness to come, which would pierce the heart of Our Lady. Simeon called Jesus, “a light to the nations” and so this feast is known as a feast of light. It is often referred to as “Candlemas Day” when the candles used in liturgy and at home for prayer are blessed.