When you wake on February 2, you are 40 days from Christmas.
You might think it is Groundhog Day, but alongside this celebration of forecasting hope or gloom,
it is also Candlemas.
Candlemas is very old tradition rooted in the visit of Mary and Joseph to the Temple
which occurred at the end of the 40 days new mothers had to wait before entering the temple.
It is a feast of light celebrating the radiance of Simeon’s vision as he sees from a place of wholeness:
“Now, O God, you can dismiss your servant in peace,
just as you promised;
because my eyes have seen the salvation
which you have prepared for all the people to see –
a light of revelation to the Gentiles
and the glory of your people Israel.” (Luke 2:29-32, Inclusive Bible)
Since the 11th century Candlemas is a day of blessing candles.
i like this.
The villagers would gather their beeswax candles and take them to the church to be blessed.
Later, they would eat crepes.
I like this too!
Now, this feast of candles at winter’s midpoint did have a weather connection.
According to popular belief, poor weather and cloudy skies on February 2 meant an early summer
and if there was sunshine, look out! There is at least 40 more days of cold and snow.
(Hence the groundhog!)
So, take a moment
light a candle.
Say a blessing.
And eat crepes.