Instruction on the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed
Virgin Mary, Commonly called Candlemas-Day - February 2. What is
this festival? Today is the festival on which the Church
venerates the humility and obedience of Mary who, though not
subject to the law of Moses, which required purification and
presentation in the temple, yet subjected herself to it. From
this comes the name Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, or
the Presentation of Jesus in the temple. It is also called
Candlemas, because before Mass on this day the candles used in
divine service are blessed and carried in procession. Why are
the candles blessed on this day and carried in procession? In
remembrance of the presentation of Jesus to His Heavenly Father
on this day, when the aged Simeon called Him: A light to the
revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of the people of
Israel, (Luke II. 32.) and to remind us that, like the five wise
virgins, we should go to meet Christ with the light of faith and
good works. With what intention ar