Candlemas: Liturgy for Blessing the Candles

February 2 is the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord, also known as Candlemas.

Falling 40 days after Christmas, this feast is the culmination of Advent and Christmastide, celebrating Jesus's presentation at the temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling Malachi 3:1: "And the Lord whom you seek will come suddenly into his temple."

At this visit, the elderly, righteous, and devout Simeon recognizes the infant Christ! He praises the Lord: "My eyes have seen your salvation... a light for revelation to the gentiles and for the glory of your people Israel."

As God's light of revelation, Jesus is often celebrated this day by blessing all of a Church's candles for the coming year. Many families will bring their own candles to Church to be blessed, but you can bless them at home as well!

Download and print a this Liturgy for Blessing the Candles: