2 February – Candlemas, also called the Presentation of the Lord, commemorates the offering of the Child Jesus in the temple, forty days after his birth. In the Gospel of this day (Luke 2:22–32) Simeon sings his canticle, the Nunc dimittis. From this Gospel word the feast derives its symbolism of light: the blessing of candles and the procession express that Christ, the true Light, has appeared in the world.
The faithful are invited to bring their own candles for the blessing of candles. The Holy Masses with candle blessing and procession are celebrated at 11.00 a.m. and at 7.00 p.m..
The cantata Ich habe genug (BWV 82) by Johann Sebastian Bach was composed for Candlemas and is closely connected with the Gospel of the day.
Johann Sebastian Bach
Cantata BWV 82 — Ich habe genug
Aria from Cantata BWV 82
Nunc dimittis
Canticle of Simeon
Now Thou dost dismiss Thy servant, O Lord, according to Thy word, in peace;
for my eyes have seen Thy salvation,
which Thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples:
a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to Thy people Israel.
Nunc dimittis servum tuum, Domine, secundum verbum tuum in pace;
quia viderunt oculi mei salutare tuum,
quod parasti ante faciem omnium populorum:
lumen ad revelationem gentium
et gloriam plebis tuae Israel.