Candles Blessed at Feast of Presentation of the Lord

Monsignor Antonio Mortillero led the traditional Blessing of Candles last February 2, a Saturday, as the parish celebrated the Feast of Presentation of the Lord. LeCom Beth Monedero kicked off the gathering with the introductory reading.

The Presentation of the Lord is also known as Candlemas day, since the blessing and procession of candles is included as part of the liturgy. Christ is the light of all nations, the ‘light of the world’, as well as, in the words of Simeon, ‘the light to enlighten the Gentiles’, hence the blessing of candles on this day. The faithful then take them home and light them when they need Christ’s intervention such as in times of illness or bad weather.

Oh God, source and origin of all light who on this day showed to the just man Simeon the Light for revelation to the Gentiles, we humbly ask that, in answer to your people’s prayers, you may be pleased to sanctify with your blessing these candles, which we are eager to carry in praise of your name, so that, treading the path of virtue, we may reach that light which never fails.

The primary candle was then lighted, with parishioners sharing the candle flame among themselves until all parishioners were carrying a lighted candle. Msgr. Mortillero then blessed the crowd, said, ‘Let us now proceed back to the chapel to continue our Eucharistic celebration’ and then led the congregation to the chapel where he began the mass to celebrate the Feast of Presentation of the Lord.

That same Saturday afternoon, February 2, Fr. Rex Mananzan also presided over the Lighting of the Candles before the 6 pm mass.