— SACRED TIME —

Candlemas — Presentation at the Temple

February 2 · Catholicism · Monotheisms

Fixed date

Esoteric and historical meaning

Purification and light entering the temple, forty days after birth. Corresponds in time to Imbolc: same principle of first light, different garment.

Operative mechanics — ritual acts

·Blessing of candles kept for the whole year
·Procession with lights
·Lighting a candle during the year's moments of crisis

Traditional foods

·Fritters and crêpes (solar discs)

Offerings

·Blessed candles at the home altar

Taboos to respect

·Do not throw away leftover wax: it is reused

Associated symbols

Candle · Dove · Temple