Question: What is Candlemas, also known as the Purification of Our Lady?
Answer: Candlemas is a Christian holiday that celebrates three events: presentation of Jesus, Purification of Our Lady, and Jesus' first entry into the temple. It is celebrated 40 days after Christmas on February 2. Simeon held Jesus and called him "a light for revelation to the Gentiles" (Luke 2:32). Therefore, candles are often blessed on this date and across the world, many Masses begin with a candlelight procession.