Candlemas

Candlemas (February 2) is a Christien festival marking the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the Purification of Mary, occuring 40 days after Christmas. It symbolizes Jesus as the "Light of the World," traditionally involving the blessing of candles, and marks the final end of the Christmas-Epiphany season.

Key Details and History

Biblical Roots: Based on Luke 2:22-40, Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the Temple in Jerusalem in obedience to Mosaic law, where the prophet Simeon proclaimed Jesus as "a light to lighten the Gentiles".
Name Origin:

 The name derives from the tradition of blessing candles for church and home use on this day, symbolizing the light of Christ

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Timing: It falls 40 days after Christmas (Dec 25), frequently on Feb 2, marking the official end of the Christmas season in many traditions, including medieval England.
Symbolism: It represents a pivot point in the Christian calendar, moving from the Nativity towards the events of Lent and Easter.
Customs: Common traditions include holding candlelight processions, eating crêpes (especially in France), and keeping nativity scenes displayed until this date.
Weather Lore: Similar to Groundhog Day, it is associated with superstitions predicting the length of winter.

Alex Fox