Worship at the Abbey

Sung Eucharist for Candlemas: The Presentation of Christ in the Temple

02 February 2011 at 5:00 pm

Alleluia, alleluia.  This child is the light to enlighten the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.

Candlemas Gospel acclamation, after Luke 2: 32

At Candlemas we mark the presentation of the infant Jesus in the Temple at Jerusalem, taken by his parents to be offered to the Lord.  He is recognised by the holy man Simeon and the prophet Anna, and acknowledged to be the Messiah, the salvation ‘prepared in the presence of all peoples’.

Traditionally candles for use in a church over the coming year are blessed at the Feast of The Presentation of Christ in the Temple, which is why it is also known as ‘Candlemas’.

Join us for the Blessing of Candles and Sung Eucharist, as we celebrate Jesus as the Light of the World.

Sung by The Choir of Westminster Abbey.