The Feast of the Presentation of our Lord

The Feast of the Presentation of our Lord is always on February 2^nd and is an important day in the life of the Church. It is often referred to as “Candlemas,” because as early as the fifth century, the custom of celebrating this feast with lighted candles had already developed. The lit candles symbolized Simeon’s prophecy that Jesus would be “a light for revelation to the Gentiles.” We will light the altar candles a little later in the service than usual, as a sign that we recognize the Light of the world has come. We will burn a small amount of incense (around the altar only) during the prelude, before the service begins, as a sign that it was at the Temple Jesus was revealed. You are encouraged to bring candles you might use in the coming year; they will be blessed during the service.