A Prayer For Candlemas Day

Lord Jesus Christ, You are the genuine Light, illuminating every spirit that enters this world. On this day, we commemorate the feast of Candlemas. Prior to the Holy Mass, the priest blesses the candles, crafted from the diligent labor of countless bees. The light from these candles will cast its glow upon the altar during the Holy Sacrifice. Assist us in understanding, today and every day, that our ordinary daily endeavors, when performed out of love for You, and in unity with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, transform into works of the supernatural, shining brightly before You for all eternity. Help us remember, each time we behold the blessed candles at Holy Mass, or beside the sick, that they represent You, the Light breaking through the darkness of this world. Enable us to dwell in that Light, to make it a part of our lives, and to ignite it within others, extending the realm of light and diminishing the shadows in the world. This we ask of You, dear Lord, through the intercession of Your beloved mother, Mary, who acted out of love for You, from the moment she brought You into this world to the day she unified with You in the light of heaven. Then we, too, laboring for You, shall become bearers of light, helping to expand Your kingdom upon earth, and increasing those who reside in heaven, the city of eternal light.Amen.