THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD February 2, 2025

Readings: Mal 3:1-4   Heb 2:1-14-18  Lk 2:22-40

The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord is an ancient celebration in the Church. It is also called Candlemas because, on this day, candles are blessed in many parishes. These candles remind us that Jesus is the Light of the World. The feast is celebrated on February 2, forty days after Christmas. It recalls the day when Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem to present Him to God.

The feast celebrates three main ideas. First, Jesus is recognized as the Light of the World, a light for all people. Second, it shows that Jesus came to fulfill the law, not to destroy it. He and His family obeyed the customs of their people. Third, it honors the deep faith of Mary and Joseph, who followed God’s will at every step.

In the Gospel of Luke, we read about two holy people, Simeon and Anna, who meet Jesus at the Temple. Both Simeon and Anna see that Jesus is special. They have waited their whole lives for this moment. Simeon praises God and calls Jesus a “light for revelation to the Gentiles.” This points to Jesus’ mission to save not only Israel but also all nations.

On Candlemas, the Church invites us to remember that Jesus brings light to our lives. Like Simeon and Anna, we are called to recognize Jesus in our world. We also look to Mary and Joseph as examples of faith and obedience.

                                                                             Fr. Terry.