In many years, Lent also begins in February with Ash Wednesday. So the month moves from the joyful candles of the Presentation to the ashes that remind us, “Remember, man, that thou art dust.”
Historical Context
Pope John Paul II established the World Day of the Sick in 1992 on the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, where so many sick pilgrims have come since Bernadette’s visions in 1858.
A Prayer for February
Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
bless my family this month.
Make our home a place of patience, faith and love, like yours in Nazareth.
As the days slowly lengthen, let your light grow in us.
And if Lent begins this month, help us begin it well.
Amen.
A Prayer to the Holy Family
Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I give you my heart and my soul.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph, assist me in my last agony.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph, may I breathe forth my soul in peace with you.
For the Sick on 11 February
Our Lady of Lourdes, health of the sick, pray for all who are ill.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On 1 February, at the start of the month.
- At Candlemas, when candles are blessed.
- On Ash Wednesday.
Scripture Connection
“A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.” — Luke 2:32
Simeon spoke these words when he held the infant Jesus at the Presentation, the reason candles are blessed on 2 February. February’s light is Christ himself.
Related prayers
For February days, see the St Brigid Prayer, February 3 Prayer and February 14 Prayer. For Valentine’s Day, the Prayer for Valentine’s Day.