According to Jewish law, a woman who gave birth to a son was considered "unclean" for seven days, and excluded from the Temple for 33 days. When she was finally allowed to go to the Temple, she was to bring a lamb and a pigeon (or turtle dove) for sacrifice. The priest would pray for her and she would be cleansed.
On Candlemas Day, candles are blessed and distributed for home use - a practice that grew in popularity in the 11th century. During the ritual, the canticle of Simeone (Nunc dimittis) is sung, in which Simeone calls Jesus "a light for revelation."
Prior to Vatican II, this feast was known as the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and traditionally marked the end of the Christmas season. The council shifted the emphasis to the presenation of the Infant Jesus in the Temple.
Pope John Paul II instituted the practice of renewing religious vows on Candlemas Day.
- Little Blue Book, Diocese of Saginaw