The choirs of the Cathedral of the Incarnation will be singing a Choral Evensong for Candlemas Eve. The evensong will also feature the guest choir of Christ Church, Rye, New York.

In the churches of the Anglican Communion, Candlemas is known by various names, including The Presentation of Our Lord Jesus Christ in The Temple. Traditionally the Western term "Candlemas" (or Candle Mass) referred to the practice whereby on February 2 a priest blessed beeswax candles with an aspergilium (containing Holy Water) for use throughout the year, some of which were distributed to the faithful for use in their homes. The date of Candlemas is established by the date set for Christmas. It comes forty days afterwards. In the West, the date of Christmas is fixed on December 25, and Candlemas therefore falls the following February 2. In the United Kingdom, good weather at Candlemas is taken to indicate severe winter weather later: "If Candlemas Day is clear and bright, / winter will have another bite. / If Candlemas Day brings cloud and rain, / winter is gone and will not come again." It is also alleged to be the date that bears emerge from hibernation to inspect the weather and is interpreted as meaning severe weather will continue for another forty days at least. In the United States and Canada, Candlemas evolved into Groundhog Day celebrated on the same date.

All are welcome to come and enjoy this afternoon of beautiful sacred music. For further information about the music program at the Cathedral of the Incarnation contact Mr. Larry Tremsky, organist and choirmaster, at 746-2955 or visit the church's website at www.incarnationgc.org.