Why Groundhog Day?

Well, it's Groundhog Day, again!

Ever wonder how Groundhog Day made it onto our calendars?

It’s based on today’s feast: the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, once known as “Candlemas Day.” The name “Candlemas” refers to the Gospel describing Jesus as “a light to the Gentiles.”

An old German saying for Candlemas goes: “If Candlemas Day is bright and clear, there’ll be two winters in the year.” In the late 1800s, a Pennsylvania newspaper used this tradition to predict six more weeks of winter on a sunny Presentation Day, adding the twist that a groundhog saw his shadow. The next year, they named him “Phil,” and a tradition was born.

But the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple has a deeper meaning. It’s one of the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary and includes Simeon’s prophecy—also the first of the Seven Sorrows of Mary.

Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the Temple, fulfilling the law of Moses by offering two turtledoves. This act of sacrifice tells us they were not wealthy. Yet they made a sacrifice- a financial sacrifice that supported the Temple.

What does that mean for us? Shouldn’t we also support the Church and practice almsgiving?

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus emphasizes three core spiritual disciplines: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. He says, “When you give alms…”—not “if.” It’s a core part of Christian life, just like prayer and fasting.

Simeon, “awaiting the consolation of Israel,” found it in Jesus and Mary. Today, many around us are seeking God’s consolation. It could be due to illness, loneliness, or financial struggles. Through various Christian ministries, we can help bring that consolation. Our financial sacrifices can support works of mercy.

When we give, we’re making an act of trust in God, saying: “God, everything I have is from you. I trust you will continue to provide, so I give this back to you.”

Pope Benedict XVI reassures us:
“Do not be afraid of Christ! He takes nothing away and gives you everything. When we give ourselves to him, we receive a hundredfold in return.”

God’s generosity cannot be outdone. So, I encourage you—trust God. Make almsgiving a regular part of your life. Do it to thank Him for your blessings, to support works of mercy, and to preserve your values. But most of all, do it to strengthen your trust in God!

(You can read more about Groundhog Day at Wikipedia.)

Copyright © 2025 Carl Brown