Printable: DIY Paper Candles
- Use our printable candles to create your own little presentation ceremony at home. You can also read Luke 2:22-40 about the tradition of presenting Jesus in the temple and how St. Simeon and St. Anna recognized Him as the Savior. This helps teach kids the importance of this feast.
Food: French Crêpes, Pancakes, or Tamales with Atole
- Crêpes and Pancakes are often enjoyed on Candlemas, symbolizing the light of Christ. In France, crêpes are served as a way to celebrate the blessing of candles for the Mass. Tamales and Atole are a traditional Mexican treat for Candlemas, representing warmth and nourishment, much like the light and warmth of Christ in our lives. Each food has a significance of welcoming light, warmth, and joy into the home. You might also enjoy a meal by candlelight to symbolize Christ as the light of the world.
Activity: Make Beeswax Candles or Bring Candles to Be Blessed
- If possible, make your own beeswax candles as a family, and bring them to your church to be blessed. Candlemas marks the day when candles are traditionally blessed for use during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, symbolizing Christ as the "light of the world." You can discuss how candles represent Christ’s presence and how the Church uses them in liturgical celebrations.
Activity: Listen and Reflect on the Nunc Dimittis
Nunc Dimittis is Latin for "Now let depart" is a hymn from the Gospel of Luke. You can read it together as a family or listen to a beautiful rendition of this song of peace, recognizing Jesus as "a light for revelation to the Gentiles." It is often referred to as the Song of Simeon and is part of the liturgical tradition, commonly sung or recited at Evening Prayer (Compline). It’s perfect to pray as a family before bedtime.
