Feast of the Candlemas

Also known as the Presentation of the Christ, Candlemas is celebrated on February 2nd, the day before the Feast of St. Blaise (when Catholics get their throats blessed). White beeswax candles are blessed during or after Mass on the 2nd, and many people take them home afterwards. Whenever Catholics pray in their home, asking for God's assistance during a time of crisis, distress, war, dangerous weather, or serious illness - especially when a priest is called to administer the Annointing of the Sick-these candles are lit before the priest enters the home. People tend to pray like crazy at times such as these.