These reflections are a result of more than 40 years of ministry as a Roman Catholic priest. Most of these years I spent in the Diocese of Charlotte which covers Western North Carolina. Now I am retired, and live in Medellín, Colombia where I continue to serve as a priest in the Archdiocese of Medellín.

THE FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD (CANDLEMAS), February 2

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
A light of revelation to the Gentiles,
and glory for your people Israel.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
(Lk 2:32)

This beautiful feast of light with the procession with candles reminds us that only 40 days ago we celebrated the Nativity of the Lord. The “holy encounter” as it is called celebrates the Lord coming to meet his people. The aged Simeon and Anna have their hopes fulfilled—to see the Anointed of the Lord.