Candlemas, celebrated on February 2, is a beautiful feast in the Catholic Church that commemorates the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple and the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a day that symbolizes Christ as the Light of the World, a moment of revelation to all nations, as foretold by the prophet Simeon in Luke 2:25-35.
Traditionally, on this day, the Church blesses candles, symbolizing the light of Christ that shines in the darkness. It is a reminder of our call to carry that light into the world through our faith and good works.
As we celebrate Candlemas, let us pray for the grace to recognize Christ’s presence in our lives, to be purified in His love, and to carry His light to others. These prayers for Candlemas will help us reflect on the meaning of this feast and embrace the light of Christ in our hearts.
Prayers for Candlemas
1. Prayer of Blessing for Candlemas Candles
Heavenly Father,
On this holy day of Candlemas,
We bring before You these candles,
A symbol of Christ, the Light of the World.
Bless them, O Lord, that they may shine in our homes
As a reminder of Your presence.
May their light dispel all darkness,
And may we always walk in Your truth.
Amen.
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12, NIV)
2. Prayer for the Light of Christ in Our Hearts
Lord Jesus,
You were presented in the temple as a light for the nations.
Shine in our hearts and guide our steps in righteousness.
Let us not be overcome by darkness,
But live as children of light,
Bringing Your love and peace to all we meet.
Amen.
“For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations.” (Luke 2:30-31, NIV)
3. Prayer of Consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary
O Blessed Mother,
On this day of your Purification,
We entrust ourselves to your maternal care.
Teach us to follow your example of humility and obedience,
That we may be purified in heart and draw closer to Christ.
Intercede for us, that we may be faithful witnesses of His light.
Amen.
“And a sword will pierce your own soul too—that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” (Luke 2:35, NIV)
4. Prayer for Families on Candlemas
Gracious Lord,
Bless our families with Your presence,
That we may be a reflection of Your divine light.
Help us to love one another with patience and kindness,
And to make our homes places of prayer and peace.
May Your light shine brightly in our hearts,
Guiding us in faith and holiness.
Amen.
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14, NIV)
5. Prayer for Renewal and Purification
O Lord,
As Mary was purified in the temple,
Purify our hearts and cleanse us from sin.
Renew our spirits with Your grace,
That we may shine as beacons of Your love.
Help us to walk in holiness,
Trusting always in Your divine mercy.
Amen.
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10, NIV)
6. Prayer for the World to Receive the Light of Christ
Lord of all nations,
You revealed Yourself to Simeon as the salvation of the world.
May Your light shine upon those who are lost in darkness.
Bring peace where there is conflict,
Hope where there is despair,
And faith where there is doubt.
May all hearts come to know and follow You,
The true Light of the World.
Amen.
“A light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” (Luke 2:32, NIV)
Closing Prayer for Candlemas
Loving God,
As we celebrate Candlemas,
May Your light shine within us and around us.
Help us to carry the flame of faith into our daily lives,
So that we may bring warmth and hope to others.
Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
May we always follow Christ, the Light of the World.
Amen.
Scriptures for Reflection on Candlemas
- Luke 2:25-35 – The prophecy of Simeon, recognizing Jesus as the light to the nations.
- John 8:12 – “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness.”
- Malachi 3:1 – “The Lord you seek will suddenly come to his temple.”
- Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?”
- Matthew 5:14-16 – “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others.”
Prayer Prompt Faith Activity
To honor Candlemas, consider the following activities:
- Bless Candles at Home – If you cannot attend Mass, pray a blessing over your candles and light one during prayer time.
- Reflect on Your Spiritual Light – Take time to meditate on how you can be a light to others.
- Pray for the World – Ask God to bring His light into places of suffering, war, and division.
- Renew Your Devotion to Mary – Pray the Rosary, asking for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.