Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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CANDLEMAS

Synonymous with the feast of the Purification of Mary, February 2, commemorating the purification of the Blessed Virgin, according to Mosaic law, forty days after Christ's birth and the presentation of the Child Jesus in the temple. Candles are blessed on that day and a lighted candle procession held to commemorate Christ as the light of revelation to the Gentiles, and represents his entry into the temple. In Scotland it is the legal term day on which interests and rents are payable.

See Also: PURIFICATION