On Sunday we will be celebrating the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, or as it is more commonly known, Candlemas. It’s forty days since we celebrated Christmas, and on this day we remember both that Christ was presented in the Temple according to the Law of the Lord and also that he is the Light of the World. The ceremonies which may start Mass on this day are a simple yet beautiful illustration of this truth. We carry candles which light up the dull, grey morning of this time of year or the darkness of the evening. In the same way we are called to bring the light of Christ into our darkened, dulled world.

We are able to do this because of the other occasion this year on which we will carry candles: at the Easter Vigil. Then we will celebrate the triumph of Christ’s resurrection. The child who has been born for us through his death and resurrection enlightens all who listen to his truth. Simeon and Anna rejoice because they see God’s salvation dawning. We should rejoice because as believers we have seen, known, and experienced he who is truly the Light of the World. P.D.