Candlemas

2017Candlemas

Candlemas is a Christian holy day celebrated annually on February 2nd, marking the end of the Christmas season. It commemorates the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the Purification of the Virgin Mary, events described in the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament. Candlemas is also known as the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord Jesus and the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The day is called Candlemas because this was the day that all the church's candles for the year were blessed.

History and Significance

The origins of Candlemas date back to the early Christian church in the 4th century in Jerusalem. The feast was introduced to Rome in the 5th century as a counter to the pagan celebrations of Lupercalia. It became a significant feast in the church calendar by the Middle Ages.

Candlemas is significant for several reasons. It marks the presentation of Jesus in the Temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling the Jewish law that every firstborn male be dedicated to God. Additionally, it commemorates the Virgin Mary's purification, traditionally observed 40 days after childbirth according to Jewish law. This day also reflects Jesus being recognized as the light of the world, a theme symbolized by the blessing and procession of candles.

Customs and Observances

Candlemas involves various customs and observances across different Christian denominations. The most common tradition is the blessing of candles by the clergy, followed by a procession of the faithful holding these candles. The candles symbolize Jesus Christ as the light of the world. In some cultures, Candlemas marks the midpoint of winter and is associated with forecasting the weather, a tradition that has evolved into the popular North American observance of Groundhog Day.

In addition to religious observances, Candlemas is celebrated with various folk traditions. In some countries, it is customary to eat crepes or other round, golden foods on Candlemas, symbolizing the sun and the return of spring.

Liturgical Celebrations

In the Roman Catholic Church, Candlemas is celebrated with a special mass that includes the blessing of candles and a procession. The Eastern Orthodox Church also observes the feast, known as the Meeting of the Lord, with similar traditions. In the Anglican Communion and some Lutheran churches, Candlemas is observed with services that include candle blessings and processions.

Candlemas in Art and Literature

Candlemas has been depicted in Christian art and literature throughout the centuries. It is often represented in scenes of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, with the figures of Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and Simeon the Righteous. In literature, Candlemas is mentioned in poems and writings that reflect on the themes of light, purification, and the presentation of Christ.

Conclusion

Candlemas is a feast that embodies themes of purification, light, and fulfillment of prophecy within the Christian tradition. It marks an important moment in the liturgical year, bridging the celebrations of Christmas and Easter. The customs and observances associated with Candlemas reflect its rich historical and spiritual significance.