“When it snows you have two choices: shovel or make snow angels.” I believe we either have been ‘blessed’ or ‘hampered’ with more snow this January than the folks up north, and the anonymous quote says it best.  

Tuesday is the traditional feast of the Presentation of the Lord, with blessed candles available for individuals or families.  Dating back thirteen hundred, our recognition of The Presentation of the Lord (Jesus’ first appearance in the Temple) stems from a certain Mosaic Law: a Hebrew woman had to formally present herself to the priests of the Temple forty days after giving birth.  Thus, she was purified.  Mary likewise presented herself forty days after giving birth, coming into the Temple with the infant Jesus and Joseph.  Many years ago, a candle procession became associated with the feast day, bringing forth the offering of blessed candles and the popular name, Candlemas.  On the heels of this feast day is that of St. Blaise and our tradition of Blessing of the Throats.  For whatever reason I consider this rather unique ‘blessing’ a personal favorite; possibly because of the distinct memory standing in the long line after Mass—with old and young, babies included—waiting to have my throat blessed.  Recalling the candles touching my neck and the belief I would be free from any choking incidences or harm to my throat for the upcoming year.  Like many of our saints, we know very little about St. Blase—though there have been different stories associated with this fourth century saint—with the exception of his ministry as a Bishop in the area of Armenia.  Legend has it he healed a young boy who was choking on a fish bone lodged in this throat.  In time the Blessing of Throats became a custom throughout the Church.   And no, lit candles were never used for the Blessing.  Because of the safeguards now in place the diocese requests we not offer this blessing individually.  We can only offer a general prayer following Communion this weekend.

In a little over two weeks the forty days of Lent will begin with Ash Wednesday, the 17th.  In coordination with the mandates sent down from the United States Bishops Conference our diocese has set down certain guidelines for aspects of our liturgies during the upcoming forty days and Holy Week.  Reception of Ashes will look different this year, but the practice of receiving it individually still remains.  

Like many parishes in our diocese we are maintaining the safeguards to protect individuals and families who come to church.  I’m hopeful more parishioners and visitors will return, choosing to actively participate in the Eucharist on weekends and weekdays with the safety precautions our parishes continue to maintain.  And thank you for your kindness, hospitality and faith as I slowly settle in.

God Bless, 

Fr. Tim