The Feast of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria is annually celebrated every 2nd day of the month of February. It is in honor of Mary, Mother of Jesus who participated in a purification rite, during the Presentation of Her Son in the Temple.
This event originated in Jaro, Ilo-ilo which then became the city wherein the Lady of Candles is the adored patroness. According to folktales,
the Virgin Mary appeared at the Ilo-ilo River way back in 1587, witnessed by a group of fishermen. They tried to uplift the statue from floating in the water, but it became impossible for them to do so due to its heavy weight. But a miracle occured that made the impossible, possible. The statue was then brought to Jaro, which became the home of the image up until today. It can be looked up at the balcony of Jaro Cathedral, living in peace and harmony together with the town’s people and devotees all over the world. It is also the Illonggo’s pride and honor to let the people know that their patroness is the first and only Marian image in the Philippines to be personally crowned by Pope John Paul II during his first visit in Ilo-ilo City in 1981.
The Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora De Aranzazu partakes in the celebration through a holy mass and blessing of candles, presided by Rev. Fr. Lopito “Bembol” Hiteroza.
The guide to a pathless journey, and to a lost soul, and the light through Him. In Jesus’ name, we ask for a peaceful and solemn life as these candles signifies hope towards eternity.
Our Lady of Candles, pray for us!
