February 2 is the Feast of the Presentation. Another name for this feast is Candlemas, from the tradition of blessing all the candles that will be used in the church in the coming year.
The Feast of the Presentation celebrates the introduction of Jesus in the Temple forty days after his birth. In the Gospel account according to Luke, Jesus is introduced to Simeon, a priest who has been waiting his whole life to meet the Messiah. In the famous text that the church prays as the Nunc dimittis (the Canticle during Night Prayer each night), Simeon says:
Lord, now you let your servant go in peace;
your word has been fulfilled.
My own eyes have seen the salvation
which you have prepared in the sight of every people:
a light to reveal you to the nations
and the glory of your people Israel.
Candlemas marks the very end of the Christmas season, as we celebrate the coming of the Light into the world.
At Saint Mary's, because the Feast of the Presentation falls on a Sunday this year, our principal Mass at 9:30 AM will begin with a special introductory rite. We will light candles, bless the candles we will burn this year at church and at home, and process into the church bearing the light as we sing the proper chants for this day. All are welcome to join us for this celebration of light. You may bring candles with you to be blessed, to use at home throughout the year.
Following all Masses this weekend, we will also observe the tradition of blessing throats for the Feast of Saint Blaise, which is observed on February 3.
Please enjoy this musical setting of the Nunc dimittis, arranged by John Bell, which the Cathedral Choir will sing at the 9:30 Mass on Sunday.
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