When the Germans arrived in America in the 1700's, they brought along the traditions of Candlemas Day. February 2 falls at the mid-point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.
If the weather was fair, it was believed the second half of the winter would be stormy and cold. This weather lore originated with the pagan celebration of Imbolc.
Candlemas Day marks an early episode in the life of Jesus: The Presentation at the Temple. The clergy would bless candles and distribute them in the dark of winter. People would put lighted candles in their windows to mark the return of warmth and light.
If Candlemas be fair and bright,
Come, winter, have another flight,
If Candlemas brings clouds and rain,
Go winter, and come not again.
Old English song
This morning "Phil" did not see his shadow. Since his first prediction in 1887, he has not seen it on only 18 occasions. With the usual hoopla, the Ground Hog Club proclaimed, "There is no shadow to be cast! An early spring is my forecast!"
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