There is a complicated relationship between many Christian festivals and the preceding Pagan celebrations. Candlemas is one such where there is Imbolc, a celebration of spring and fertility with the goddess Brigid at this time with the Christian presentation of Jesus at the Temple with the purification of Mary. This poem seeks to celebrate light and shine good Light into the darkest corners of this troubled world.

Candlemas
(Purify and pray)

Present the child and purify,
purify and pray;
pray that all the prejudice
leaves us from this day.

Light a candle, light one more,
light a thousand strong;
so we can see in darkest night,
and right will conquer wrong.

Present the child and purify,
purify and pray;
pray that all injustices
are broken down today.

Light a candle, light one more,
light can do no wrong;
it lights the darkest corner,
illuminates our song.

The song of hope and faith and love;
The song of praise and awe,
that through winter’s bitter cold
the sun will rise once more.

Present the child and purify
purify and pray;
pray as we hold our candles high
that all will find their way.

DennyBradbury©
Love and peace