During the last few weeks the readings at Sunday Mass have made quite a few references to light, and the feast we celebrated around Christmas time emphasised Christ as the light of the nations. Tomorrow we have another feast which again celebrates that Christ is our Light. The Presentation of the Lord is still often known as Candlemas and the ceremonies that take place during Mass today show us why. We bless and carry lighted candles in honour of him who is 'a light to lighten the gentiles' and the glory of Israel. But what we do in Church must be carried out into the world. We are called and enabled to be the living sign of the Christ, we must shine with his love and bring the warmth of his presence into our darkened world.

In a few weeks time, on the evening of March 30th, Christians across the world will be gathering for the Easter Vigil. That celebration is the high point of the Church's year. On that night thousands upon thousands will be baptised and 'enlightened' by Christ. They will be told that they are 'now children of the light'. Because of our baptism the same is true of us, and tomorrow's feast is yet another reminder that we are called to reflect Christ who is the Light of the nations.

P.D.