Candlemas 2013

 Today was the end of the Christmas season in our house - one of the last celebrations of Jesus in his infancy - Candlemas/Presentation of Jesus in the Temple.  It's so nice to not have to rush like most people do right after Christmas and take down the tree and put away decorations.  We enjoy them for the entire month of January and get to take them down at the beginning of February. 

We played it pretty simple for celebrating today's feast day.  We read about the Presentation of Jesus and had a few snacky things that went with it....

~Pierced Hearts~

"Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed" (Luke 2: 34)

(marshmallow hearts stabbed with toothpick swords and Playmobil swords)

 ~Widow's olives~

"There was also a prohetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher.  She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four.  She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer."  (Luke 2: 36-37)

(black olives to symbolize Anna being a widow)

 ~Jesus is the Light~

"Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel."  (Luke 2:  29-32)

(candles - using Pirouette cookies, Keebler. Fudge Stripes, and easy icing for the flame)

Candlemas lands on Groundhog's Day, and I found this cute rhyme which also ties in an end of winter prediction....

 "If Candlemas be fair and bright,
Winter has another flight.
If Candlemas brings clouds and rain,
Winter will not come again."

Other great teas and ideas to celebrate Candlemas....
**21 ideas from Dawn
**Loveliness of Candlemas Fair
**Candlemas tea from Alice
**Two  posts from Jessica