The Presentation of the Lord

This weekend, we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord—a moment rich with meaning and hope. In the Gospel, Mary and Joseph bring the infant Jesus to the Temple, fulfilling the Law of Moses. What might seem like a simple act of obedience is anything but ordinary. Malachi’s prophecy, “And suddenly there will come to the temple the LORD whom you seek,” comes to life in this scene. Simeon and Anna, two elderly but faithful witnesses, recognize Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, the “light of revelation to the Gentiles.”

The Presentation is a powerful reminder of how God’s plans unfold in unexpected ways. In Hebrews, we hear how Jesus shares in our humanity and, through His sacrificial love, destroys the power of death. It’s a moment of humility and obedience that transforms the Temple into a dwelling place of God Himself. Psalm 24 captures the joy of this moment: “Lift up, O gates, your lintels... that the king of glory may come in!” In this humble child, the light of salvation begins to shine, breaking through the darkness of sin and offering hope.

Simeon and Anna reveal what it means to live in faith and trust. Simeon waited his whole life for the Messiah, clinging to the Holy Spirit’s promise that he would not die before seeing the Lord. Anna, after losing her husband, dedicated herself to prayer, fasting, and worship in the Temple. These two show us that even when the wait seems long, God is faithful. Their story is a beautiful example for parents or grandparents and others who might feel discouraged when their children or grandchildren step away from the faith.

If this is your experience, take heart. Like Simeon and Anna, you can hold on to hope. Their witness shows us that while we can’t control the choices of others, but we can keep lifting them up to God in prayer, trusting that He is always at work in their hearts. The seeds of faith planted over the years—through love, example, and prayer—are never wasted. God’s timing is perfect, and our role is to remain faithful, knowing that no prayer goes unheard.

Even more, Simeon and Anna remind us to keep growing in our own faith. Their joy when they encountered Jesus shows us that it’s never too late to experience God’s love in a fresh way. By participating in the sacraments, praying regularly, and showing love and patience, we can reflect Christ’s light to our families and be a source of hope for those around us.

Candlemas: A Feast of Light

The Presentation of the Lord is also known as Candlemas, a day that celebrates Jesus as the “light of the world.” This weekend we will bless candles, a tradition that goes back centuries. The light of the candles symbolizes Christ’s presence in our lives, shining through the darkness.

This blessing is more than a ritual; it’s an invitation. Just as Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the temple, we’re called to present ourselves to God, offering our lives as a light for others. The blessed candles we take home serve as a reminder to keep Christ at the center of our homes and hearts.

St. Blaise and the Blessing of Throats

On Monday, February 3, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Blaise, a 4th-century bishop and martyr known for his healing and unwavering faith. Blaise started as a physician but became known as a “physician of souls,” caring for both the physical and spiritual needs of those around him.

One of the most famous stories about St. Blaise involves a mother who brought her choking child to him. The boy had a fishbone stuck in his throat, and through Blaise’s prayer and blessing, he was miraculously healed. This act cemented his reputation as the patron saint of throat ailments. Even after being arrested for his faith, Blaise continued to serve others and inspire them, ultimately giving his life for Christ.

After Masses this weekend, we will offer the Blessing of Throats in honor of St. Blaise. This tradition, performed with crossed candles, is a way to ask for his intercession for protection and healing. It reminds us of the Church’s mission to care for the whole person—body and soul—and it calls us to trust in God’s healing power.

Healing in the Christian sense goes beyond physical cures; it’s about becoming whole in mind, body, and spirit, united with God’s will. In a world filled with so much pain and struggle, the life of St. Blaise assures us that no suffering is beyond God’s reach. His example invites us to pray for one another and be a source of comfort and hope for those in need.

Let Your Light Shine

As we reflect on the Feast of the Presentation and the life of St. Blaise, we’re reminded that faith isn’t something to keep to ourselves. Like the candles we bless this weekend, we’re called to shine brightly, sharing the light of Christ with the world. Whether it’s through small acts of kindness, persistent prayer, or a quiet word of encouragement, our faith can be a source of hope and healing for others.

May this weekend's celebration of the Presentation inspire us to trust in God’s promises, just like Simeon and Anna. And may the example of St. Blaise remind us that even in times of challenge, God’s light continues to shine, offering healing, strength, and peace. Let’s take that light into our homes, our families, and our communities, living as witnesses to the hope we have in Christ.