Epworth had its beginning on Superbowl Sunday, 1999. As a result, we consider Superbowl Sunday as our unofficial anniversary. This year it was also Groundhog Day and Candlemas, which is also known as the Feast of the Presentation of our Lord. Forty days after His birth, Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple for the rites of purification and dedication as prescribed by the Torah. Also, Joseph and Mary were obliged by the Torah to “redeem” their firstborn son: “The Lord spoke to Moses and said, ‘Consecrate to me every first-born that opens the womb among the Israelites, both of man and beast, for it belongs to me’” (Ex 13:1). The price for such a redemption was five shekels, which the parents paid to the priest. This “redemption” was a kind of payment for the Passover sacrifice, by which the Jews had been freed from slavery. This was also the well-known occasion recorded in Luke 22 where Simeon held baby Jesus and blessed his parents.
Epworth marked the occasion with a brief lesson on the meaning of Candlemas and a “Souper Bowl” celebration immediately after the service, which included a soup potluck, with various breads and some very yummy desserts. Epworth has not celebrated Candlemas in the past, which in addition to His presentation at the temple, also recognizes Jesus as the light of the world, but as of this year, that will change.
Thanks,
John
