Traditionally the day when all the candles to be used during the year (specifically the candles in church) would be blessed. While that sounds like an odd custom, quite understandable in an era when candles or lanterns were the chief source of illumination. I'm sure part of the blessing would be that the candle would burn brightly against the darkness without setting fire to something. It always seems appallingly dangerous to me that people left fires burning in the fireplace at night and often left lighted candles or lanterns in the window while they were asleep to lead stranded travelers homeward. I'm surprised more people didn't lose their homes in those days!
Here are some links explaining the holiday in both Christian and pagan orientations:
Candlemas
Celebrating Candlemas
Imbolc
Part of the Candlemas tradition is that pesky groundhog:
Official Groundhog Day Site
General Lee: the Southern Groundhog
It's a sure bet "Beau" isn't seeing his shadow today. Wish we could swap forecasts with Phil!
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