Yesterday I travelled the 80 kilometres to Levin to celebrate ''Velitas'' with the recently arrived community of Colombian refugees. Velitas means little candles and it is a strong Colombian custom to light candles on the vigil of the feast of the Immaculate Conception. Up to 40 people arrived at the home of Juan and Gabriela placing their candles on the table which was used for Mass and leaving gifts of food in the kitchen.
The gospel from Luke 1:26-38 helped us to understand the velitas tradition. The angel Gabriel told Mary that she would conceive and bear a son. The phrase used for giving birth in Spanish is to bring to light. Mary as the mother of Jesus brought into the light of the world he who later described himself as the Light of the World.
After mass and some tasty food, the Colombians enjoyed their time together in community as they waited until it was dark to go outside to light their candles. It was a strong witness to Jesus who lights up the darkness of our life. When the ceremony was over, all returned home to place a lighted candle in a window of their home as a sign of the peace that they desire for their families living here and for all those overseas who dream of peace in the midst of conflict and war.
We too could put a lighted candle in a window tonight as we ask Mary conceived without sin to bring Jesus, the Light of the World into the darkness of our hearts at this time of Advent and Christmas.
Fr Don Hornsey - Lower Hutt Aotearoa/New Zealand
Don Hornsey
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