Every year on February 2nd, we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, the feast that marks the day that Our Lord was first presented in the temple 40 days after his birth. Mary and Joseph did this to fulfill the requirements of the Mosaic Law for a sacrifice of thanksgiving to God and ritual purification of the mother.
One traditional name for this feast is Candlemas. Because the Presentation celebrates the light of Christ coming into the world to scatter the darkness of sin, it was customary to bless the candles that will be used for Mass throughout the coming year. This practice has faded away in many places, but a remnant remains in the blessing of individual candles and procession.
As Catholics, we know that blessed objects have spiritual power. Many sacramentals, such as Rosaries and medals, are blessed to provide spiritual protection and aid. Blessed candles are especially powerful helps to our prayer life, and provide a strong support against evil.
So, what can we use these candles for? The first, and most obvious use, is to light during our times of prayer. The light of the flame represents Jesus, the Light of the World, present to us. Observing candle flames can help to focus our thoughts and guide us spiritually in our time with Our Lord.
A blessed candle is a great tool against the power of darkness and evil. Traditionally, the Rite of Exorcism would use a blessed candle to show the power of the Light of Christ against the darkness of the devil. When temptations to sin come, especially at night, the light of a blessed candle can help to dispel those temptations.
Even natural dangers can be eased through the light of a blessed candle. A long standing tradition is to light a blessed candle for protection against storms, such as the blizzards that arrive every winter or the severe thunderstorms that rumble through the summer evenings. Of course, there is also a practical effect: the candle can be used for a bit of light when the power goes out after sunset.
This year, I encourage you keep your blessed candle in a place where you might pray, and allow the candle to show the Light of Christ to your families and to the world!
