On the appointed day of February 2 the parish gathered to mark the Feast of Candlemas, or the Presentation of Christ in the Temple. The High Mass began with the blessing of candles and a procession, and included the choir singing the Nunc Dimittis, or Song of Simeon, who rejoices that he has seen the salvation of the world:
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace according to thy word.
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
To be a light to lighten the Gentiles and to be the glory of thy people Israel.