Candlemas
Newsflash! For some of our Mexican Christian brothers and sisters, this weekend ends the Christmas season. Yes, the Christmas season ends with Candlemas! Also known as the Presentation of the Lord, Candlemas celebrates the day that, in keeping with Jewish law, Mary and Joseph brought the baby Jesus to the temple for the first time. When Simeon saw the baby, he proclaimed: “For my eyes have seen your salvation which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a LIGHT for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.”
For Churches of the Home, this day is an opportunity to reflect on the light of Christ entering the world, symbolized by the blessing and lighting of candles during the Mass. These blessed candles, representing Jesus as the “Light of the World,” are often taken home to be used throughout the year during family prayers and special occasions. This tradition helps families keep the presence of Christ alive in their daily lives.
The Feast of St. Blaise, celebrated on February 3rd, follows Candlemas and is known for the unique tradition of the Blessing of Throats. St. Blaise, a 4th-century bishop and martyr, is the patron saint of throat ailments. According to tradition, he miraculously saved a boy who was choking on a fishbone. During the Blessing of Throats, two crossed candles are placed near the throat while praying for protection from throat diseases and other illnesses. This blessing is a powerful reminder of God’s care for our physical and spiritual well-being.
For Churches of the Home, these two feast days offer a chance to engage in meaningful rituals and deepen our faith. Participating in the Candlemas candle blessing and the Blessing of Throats on St. Blaise’s feast day can be a special way to connect with the Church’s rich traditions. Families might also take this time to discuss the stories and significance of these saints, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our faith. Additionally, these celebrations can be complemented with traditional foods and family activities, creating lasting memories and strengthening the family’s spiritual bond.
Reflect and Discuss as a Church of the Home:
What places in the world need light?
What light can you offer to those places?
How can you share that light?
What do you see as light?
Where do you need light or the Light of Christ?
Candlemas Explained: The Presentation of Jesus & Role of Spiritual Family
Join us for Mass this weekend
in person at 4:00 PM on Saturday, 8:30 or 10:30 AM on Sunday, on www.gbres.org/live, our YouTube channel, and our Facebook page.
READINGS FOR THIS WEEKEND’S MASSES
VIRTUALLY SUNDAY REFLECTION
Death can stir many emotions but it is an inevitable part of being human. The inevitability of death must be embraced with faith because the unconditional love of God frees us from the fear of death. Hope and peace comes from trusting in God's promises and the eternal life that awaits us. Join Fr. Tim as he reflects on this weekend's scripture.
FAMILIES
WEEKLY BULLETIN
(click to read)
PARISH LYCEUM
The Parish Lyceum will feature a variety of topics, guidelines, and relevant information to nurture the PIESS of our lives – physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and social.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Ruby and Res
Even though Ruby can't read, she knows a great book and a great author when she meets one. Thank you to Lynda Drews for introducing Ruby to "The Maid and the Socialite"
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