Today's Mass began with the blessing of candles.
There can also be a procession with lighted candles into the church if that is possible.
The significance of the blessing and lighting of candles is connected closely with this feast of the Presentation of the Lord.
Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to be presented to God as laid down by the Law.
The purpose of the presentation was for purification and consecration.
But in the feast of the Presentation, it was Jesus who came to the Temple as the Light of the World, to purify the Temple and to consecrated the Temple to God.
The blessed candles are to be brought home where we will light them up during prayer.
May Jesus, the Light of the world, enlighten our homes, purify it and consecrate it so that we can present to Him a worthy dwelling place.
May we keep His light shining brightly so that we will be a consecrated People of God.