Feast of the Purification, or Candlemas, in Dayton
The Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary on February 2nd concludes Christmastide, falling 40 days after the Nativity. Holy Family parish, our apostolate in Dayton, OH, celebrated this feast with a procession and Solemn High Mass.
According to Mosaic Law, a mother who had given birth to a son remained unclean for 40 days after birth, in which time she completed her purification. After the 40 days, the new mother was to “bring to the temple a lamb for a holocaust and a young pigeon or turtle dove for sin” (Leviticus 12), where a priest prayed for her and she was cleansed. Mary complied with this precept of the Mosaic Law, and redeemed Our Lord from the Temple, according to the law established by God.
The procession of everyone with lit candles represents the entry of Christ, the Light of the world, into the Temple. This Feast, which is also called Candlemas, is the day when a solemn blessing is given to the candles used in the church, and by the laity at home, throughout the coming year.
February 4, 2014