Candlemas, (2 February - 40 days after Christmas), but observed this Sunday, 1st February. An ancient tradition, celebrated for centuries, which still holds a place in the heart of many. In church, it commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the Purification of Mary. It traditionally marks the end of the Christmas season, with churches often removing decorations after this date. The celebration centres on light—candles are blessed and carried in procession, symbolising Christ as the light of the world. Candlemas once signalled the start of the agricultural year, with weather lore suggesting that a bright Candlemas foretells more winter to come. Today, it offers a quiet, reflective moment of transition from Christmas to Lent & Easter, Winter to Spring. Candlemas has links to once of the smallest of flowers, the Snowdrop. These beautiful little flowers are often called Candlemas Bells due to the time of year they flower.

Food also features at Candlemas. The French eat Crepes on La Chandeleur, in Spain it is known as Candelaria and a tradition there is that whomever found the little baby figure inside the Rosca de Reyes (King's Cake) on Epiphany, had to bring food to the Candelaria! In Mexico, it is Timales!

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, the simplicity and beauty of lighting a candle and seeking solace in its glow can be both powerful and comforting.