Candlemas and Groundhog Day – February 2

Locally, February 2nd is a day when all the hype seems to be centered around a certain groundhog in Punxsutawney, PA. We wonder will we have an early Spring or more cold Winter weather for six weeks depending his eyesight.

As Christians, we might miss the more importance of this day. February 2nd is 40 days after the birth of Jesus Christ and is the day when Mary and Joseph presented the baby Jesus to Simeon at the temple as was the Jewish custom. This day is known as the Presentation of the Lord.

It is also the day known as Candlemas (Candle Mass), the day when candles are blessed and will be used in the home through the year. Afterall, Jesus Christ is the Light of the World. What better way to live this than with lit blessed candles.

Whether you practice the blessing of candles in your household or not, come to SKD Parish for the 9:00 a.m. Mass to celebrate the 4th mystery of the Joyful mysteries and have your candles blessed to bring home the light of Christ throughout the calendar year regardless of whether we have dreary weather or warmer sunny days.

Check out the short video presentation at the top to learn more about the tradition of Candlemas and may Phil have a bright disposition this Friday!