Candlemas – the day when everyone can come to the temple and towards the Lord.
On the day of the feast told the Chancellor of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church Metropolitan Anthony (Pakanich), said the information Center of the UOC.
“Candlemas is celebrated on the fortieth day after Christmas. For every man today’s feast answers the question: “What can I do to meet God in your life?” According to the Holy fathers, if we are here, on earth, did not encounter God the Creator, the eternal life will no longer be possible,” said Archbishop Anthony.
He recalled that the place where man meets God is the temple of the Lord.
“Everyone in the Church feels a special state that feels the closeness of God. A believer understands that sin can be overcome is not their own, but only by the power of God. But it depends on the person the first step towards the Creator” – said Metropolitan Anthony.
Recalling the history of the holiday, Archbishop Anthony added that “the presentation of the Lord is on the verge of two eras: old Testament and new Testament”.
“According to legend, the Holy righteous Simeon received from the Holy spirit’s instruction, that he will not die until you see the coming of the Messiah. “Now dismiss Thy servant, o Lord, according to Thy word, in peace…,” said Simeon, when he took up the infant Christ. This event became great feasts of the visitation,” – said Bishop Anthony.
According to the information Center of the UOC, according to the gospel the old man Simeon came to the temple in Jerusalem to worship the newborn Jesus Christ. The angel announced that he would not die until they see the Christ child. Seeing the virgin with the Infant Jesus in her arms, he spiritually recognized Him as the promised Messiah. Took Jesus in his hands, Simeon Bogopriimets said, “Lord, Now lettest thou Thy servant, o Lord, the verb Thy word; thou widest my eyes Your salvation, now thou hast prepared before the face of all people, the light of the revelation of languages, and the glory of Thy people Israel” (LK. 2:29-32).
