Always Advent

February 2nd–40 days after Christmas–is set aside by the church as the feast of the Presentation. It’s also called Candlemas because historically it was the day for blessing all the candles that were to be used throughout the coming year in the church. You’ll also sometimes see it referred to as Little Christmas.

My pastor says that the Presentation is a “feast of light that occurs in the dark of winter.” Candlemas is a time to reflect on the light of Christ. As a candle burns and gives forth light, it is consumed. It shrinks away to nothing. Christ was consumed as he his light and life for us. We, in imitation of Christ, must also allow ourselves to be consumed in our sacrificial love of God and neighbor.

Links

Catholic Encyclopedia entry:
http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/03245b.htm

Wikipedia article:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candlemas