For those who don't know of it.....Candlemas has been celebrated by Christians since the earliest days.
It is one of the twelve great Christian Feasts. Today few denominations celebrate it except Catholics, Orthodox and Anglicans, other churches some times do.
It is celebrated 40 days after Jesus birth when he and his mother Mary were presented at the temple as required by law for her cleansing after giving birth.
It is where Simion (an aged priest) and Anna ( an old temple prophet) recognised him as the Saviour.
And Simion spoke the words of one of the most famous and important prayers (Nunc Dimittis)
Candlemas is celebrated as a special Communion service started and ended with a procession, with every one carrying lighted candles; in memory and recognition of Jesus as light of the world.
Very many Christians have no idea that Candlemas is celebrated or why. Which is a great sorrow.
Nunc Dimittis.(1662 version)
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace : according to thy word.For mine eyes have seen : thy salvation,Which thou hast prepared : before the face of all people;To be a light to lighten the Gentiles : and to be the glory of thy people Israel.
