Father Philip Writes...

February

CANDLEMASS – 2nd February.
​The Feast of Candlemass is given 3 names:

1. The Presentation of Christ in the Temple. The Jewish Law stated that every first-born son was to be dedicated to the service of God, for He saved Israel’s first-born when the first-born of Egypt died at the first Passover (Exodus 12 v 12);
2. The Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The purification of a woman was to be completed 40 days after the birth of a male child. Only then could she re-enter the ‘Court of Women’ on the Temple Mount;
3. CANDLEMASS. The Romans used to carry candles and torches in the street to honour the goddess Februa. We carry candles not in honour of Februa but in honour of Christ, proclaimed by Simeon in the Temple to be ‘a Light to Enlighten the Gentiles’ – words used by the Church daily at Night Prayer

The blessing and distribution of candles should challenge us. The candle is a symbol of being a light for Christ. Jesus said, ‘You are the light of the world.’ The candle is also a symbol of sacrifice, for in giving light it gives of itself.
​​ In Luke 2 v 22 we see how Mary and Joseph’s lives revolved completely around Jesus,  how the prophetess Anna was devoted to serving God in prayer in the Temple and the old man Simeon believed he would not die until he had seen the Messiah. 

 We, too, need to live lives of sacrifice and radiate the love of Christ to those around. Even one person can make a difference in today’s world. Let us make sure each one of us shines as a light for Christ.

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New gate to rood loft stairs
​

What is a Rood Screen? In mediaeval churches, Rood Screens were used to mark the separation between the nave (the body of the church) and the chancel (where the High altar is situated). The word rood comes from the old English rōd, meaning the Cross of Christ and the rood figures consisted of Jesus on the Cross, with Mary and St John on either side. In our church the original screen and figures were removed at the Reformation, but the original steps leading from the Lady chapel remain. Our Rood figures were restored in 1981 above the chancel arch and for many years I have wanted a beautiful gate primarily for safety reasons. ​ 

The restored Rood held a fascination for John Herron for many years, and so the new gate given by his widow Anne, is a fitting memorial.

It bears a symbol copied from the South porch – a crowned AMR – standing for Ave Maria Regina – Hail Mary, ​​Queen, and the lock cover has an amusing and fitting rebus (an image like a pun, representing a name) of a heron.
​John was for many years a faithful member of St Mary’s congregation and the gate will be dedicated at parish Mass on Sunday 2nd Feb with shared refreshments afterwards. All are welcome.

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