The Presentation of Our Lord

February 2 – The Presentation of Our Lord –

Also called “The Presentation of Christ in the Temple and the Purification of Mary.” It marks the official end of the Christmas season and at St. Augustine’s House, the last decorations will be taken down after this. Its nickname, “Candlemas” comes from the fact that traditionally the candles for the year were blessed on this day because of the reference to light in Simeon’s song, the Nunc Dimittis. This Canticle is sung at Compline every evening:

“Lord, now you let your servant go in peace;
according to your word.
For my eyes have seen your salvation
which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel.”

~Image: Rogier van der Weyden – St Columba Altarpiece detail, Simeon in the Temple with Christ