Vicar's Message forFebruary 2025

Dear Friends

After all of the colour and excitement of Christmas January and February can seem rather dull, cold months that might even make us a feel a little low.

In many churches, that darkness is greatly lightened at the beginning of February as we celebrate Candlemass which is also known as the Presentation of Christ in the Temple. We are reminded that Jesus was revealed to the faithful Simeon and Anna as the light of the world, the longed-for Messiah, God with us. Traditionally, candles are blessed in churches at Candlemass as a reminder to us that Jesus is the light burning brightly for us.

Over the years the Church has adopted many symbols to help explain and understand deep meanings within the Christian faith. One such symbol associated with Candlemass is the snowdrop. I love snowdrops – they are delicate and beautiful. Yet they are so strong as they manage to get up through the ground and flourish where so many other plants would fail. Snowdrops are known as Candlemass Bells because they bloom early in the year and often arrive in time to greet Candlemas as it arrives.

Look out for snowdrops over the next few weeks and as we greet February perhaps, we might like to think of all the reminders of all of those things that bring light and joy into our lives and the fact that brighter months lie ahead.

With grace, peace and every blessing

Canon Paul

Revd Canon K Paul Arthur. Priest in Charge of Par, Charlestown and Treverbyn