In the Northern Hemisphere, Advent and Christmas occur at the darkest time of the year. In these weeks on either side of the winter solstice, we focus on Christ as the light that dispels the darkness of our lives. It is in this spirit that we adorn Christmas trees and the eaves and windows of our homes with lights.
Light is also a fundamental liturgical symbol of these two seasons. In Advent, we gradually increase the illumination as we light progressively more candles on the wreath. On Epiphany, the Ceremonial of Bishops encourages communities to provide a “suitable and increased display of lights” (240) in the church. Forty days after Christmas, on the feast of the Presentation of the Lord (February 2), the Roman Missal recommends starting Mass with a blessing of candles and procession, and the next day, on the feast of Saint Blaise, the Book of Blessings suggests a blessing of throats using two candles blessed on the feast of the Presentation (ch. 51).
Take advantage of these multiple opportunities to highlight the symbolism of light in the following ways:
- Make sure the candles for the Advent wreath, Epiphany, the Presentation, and Saint Blaise are clean and in good condition.
- If needed, purchase additional candles well in advance.
- Think about where additional candles can be positioned and lit throughout the worship space for Epiphany, taking care to keep any dry greenery away from open flames.
- Invite people to bring candles from home to Mass for the Presentation and bless them, along with the candles that will be used in the church during the coming year.
For more information on creating a liturgical environment for Advent and Christmas, see this helpful blog from Rev. Philip Horrigan.
You can find more seasonal resources on our Advent and Christmas page, here.
Originally published in Today’s Liturgy © 2015 OCP. All rights reserved.
Paul Covino
Paul Covino received his master’s in liturgical research from Notre Dame and has worked for more than thirty years in pastoral liturgy. He is the editor of Celebrating Marriage and currently serves as director of Campus Ministry at Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts.