At today’s service, we celebrated Candlemas when we remember Mary and Joseph presenting the baby Jesus at the temple to be blessed by the holy man, Simeon. As the elderly Simeon holds the child Jesus in his arms, he feels his life is now complete as he speaks words of prophecy:
‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel.’ Luke 2:29-32
The light of Christ is symbolised in the light of candles at this festival.
Our small choir led the congregation in carols linked to Candlemas from a collection compiled by the Royal School of Church Music with ‘The Lord of Life and Glory’ sung as a Choir Introit at the start of this joyous service.