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The Presentation of Our Lady: A Feast of Preparation

There is a special beauty to this feast since it highlights the fact that Our Lady was chosen even before time began. She is called the root of Jesse (Isaiah, 11:1) from which Our Lord Jesus Christ would be born. She is introduced to the synagogue, the institution in charge of keeping this promise. Thus, the synagogue receives Our Lady as a first step. In this act, the hopes of ages would soon be fulfilled.

Our Lady, a supremely holy soul, is received in the Temple and entered into the service of God. Despite the corruption of the nation of Israel and the transformation of the Temple into a den of the Pharisees, an incomparable light appeared: the sanctity of Our Lady.

Unknowingly, Our Lady began to prepare herself to become the Mother of Our Lord Jesus Christ. In an atmosphere of graces at the Temple, she was set apart from everyone in order to serve God. She increased her love of God until she formed the ardent desire

for the imminent coming of the Messias and asked God if she might have the honor to be the servant of His Mother. She did not know that she was the one chosen for this honor. That is why she was perplexed when the Archangel Gabriel greeted her to ask her permission for the Incarnation.

Our Lady’s magnificent preparation to be the Mother of Jesus Christ began with her Presentation at the Temple, a feast the Church celebrates on November 21. It is fitting that we ask Our Lady to prepare us with the best of Catholic doctrine to serve God by serving her. We should present ourselves before Our Lady, asking her to assist us in taking up the task of our sanctification, as the Holy Ghost did with her at the Temple of Jerusalem.

The preceding article is taken from an informal lecture Professor Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira gave on the feast of The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary — November 21, 1965. It has been translated and adapted for publication without his revision. –Ed.

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The Feast of the Presentation

According to the Church’s liturgical calendar, the feast held on Feb. 2 each year is in honor of the Presentation of the Lord. Some Catholics recall this day as the feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary because such was the feast day named until the 1969 changes in the Church’s calendar.

In fact, according to Luke’s Gospel, the presentation of Jesus and the purification of the Blessed Mother took place in the Temple on the same day, and both are remembered during Mass on Feb. 2. Also, in several countries, Candlemas is simultaneously celebrated on this day and involves a candlelight procession that was popularized in the Middle Ages. Until the Second Vatican Council the feasts on Feb. 2 ended the Christmas season. Today, the season ends in January on the feast of the Baptism of our Lord.

As early as the fourth century Christians commemorated the presentation of Jesus in the Temple, but, at the time, there was no feast name attached. In seventh-century Rome, the Church named the celebration the feast of the Purification of the Blessed Mother Mary, and it remained that way for nearly 1,300 years. In the reforms after Vatican II, the feast was given a stronger focus on Jesus (by stressing the Presentation of Jesus), but clearly the events of purification and presentation that took place when Jesus was 40 days old (see Lk 2:22-39) are tied together and thus commemorated together.

Purification and Presentation

Under Mosaic law found in the Old Testament Book of Leviticus, a Jewish woman who gave birth to a child was considered unclean (see 12:1-8). The mother of a newborn could not routinely go out into public and had to avoid all things sacred, including the Temple. If her child was a male, this exclusion lasted for 40 days. If the child was female, the period lasted 80 days. This was a ceremonial seclusion and not the result of sin or some kind of wrongdoing on the part of the mother.

At the end of the 40 or 80 days the woman presented herself at the Temple to be purified. If the baby was her firstborn male child, the infant was brought along to the Temple to be dedicated to the Lord. The law in Exodus specifies that the first male child belongs to God (see 13:2-16). This law is a tribute to God for His sparing the firstborn Israelite males during the time of the Exodus from Egypt. The firstborn Egyptian male children, of course, were not spared.

The mother’s purification ritual obliged her to bring, or purchase at the Temple, a lamb and a turtledove as sacrificial offerings. The lamb was offered in thanksgiving to God for the successful birth of the child; the turtledove was a sin offering. Families that could not afford a lamb could bring two pigeons or two turtledoves. After these animals were sacrificed, the Temple priest prayed over the woman and she could once again resume her normal role or status.

Mary, the ever spotless Mother of God, certainly did not have to comply with this ritual, but did so to honor God and observe all the rules handed down by Moses. She was the holiest of all women, but she still submitted to the humbling requirements of the law. She remained at home for 40 days, denied herself all association with sacred things and on the day required walked the five miles from Bethlehem to the Temple in Jerusalem. Arriving at the Temple, Mary likely stood in line and waited her turn to see the priest.

Nunc Dimittis

In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus, Mary and Joseph go to the Temple offering two turtledoves for Mary’s purification. Along with Mary’s willing submission, Jesus is presented into the hands of the priest and thus to God. In accordance with the Old Testament, the child was blessed and then bought or ransomed back by the family who would pay five shekels into the Temple treasury. The Savior of the world is ransomed in the manner of every other Hebrew boy. “When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, they took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, just as it is written in the law of the Lord, ‘Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord’”(Lk 2:22-24; see Nm 18:15-16).

The Gospel of Luke explains that the old prophet Simeon and the prophetess Anna were at the Temple that day (see 2:22-38). They, like many others, had spent their lifetime waiting, longing for a Messiah, and the Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die until he had seen the Savior. Among all the children and mothers coming into the Temple, Simeon recognized Jesus as the Christ Child; he held Jesus and exclaimed this hymn of thanksgiving, “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel” (2:29-32). The hymn has traditionally been termed the Nunc Dimittis , from the Latin, “ Nunc dimittis servum tuum, Domine, secundum verbum tuum in pace .”

Like Mary, Jesus the Divine Son of God did not have to undergo these rituals, but His parents willingly complied in order to pay tribute to Jewish laws, to avoid any possible scandal and in so doing demonstrated profound humility. They acquiesced to the law like all poor Jewish families.

The Holy Family must have experienced great joy, even wonder at all that had happened to them. Consider the events of the previous weeks. First, the shepherds miraculously arrived to adore and praise Jesus on the night He was born. And now, Simeon, another stranger, singles out Jesus as the Savior, not only of Israel but of the world. Someday all the other children being presented will know Jesus as their Savior. But here in the Temple there is also pain. The old prophet, moved by the Holy Spirit, tells Mary that she will experience unspeakable grief because of the outrageous way the world would judge and treat her Son. But Mary remained always committed to God’s will and to her Son.

Feb. 2 is on the liturgical calendar as the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, but in addition to the presentation, the Mass recalls Mary’s humble submission to the purification ritual.

D.D. Emmons writes from O’Fallon, Ill.  

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The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

When Mary was asked to be the mother of the Savior, she was completely free to accept or reject the offer. Her response, “Let it be done to me,” was a great act of faith. Because she did not understand what was happening, she must have known that there would be difficulties ahead.

She replied yes to the angel's announcement and agreed to become the mother of Jesus, and the Church has declared Mary to be the Mother of God. Because she was the first to say yes to the Messiah, the Church has declared her to be the Mother of the Church.

The feast of the presentation of Mary dates back to the 6th century in the East and the 15th century in the West. It is based on an ancient tradition that says Mary was taken to the temple in Jerusalem when she was 3-years-old and dedicated to God. What we celebrate on this day is the fact that God chose to dwell in Mary in a very special way. In response, Mary placed her whole self at the service of God. Every moment since your Baptism, God invites you to be open to his grace and dedicate yourself to him, as Mary did.

from Saints and Feast Days , by Sisters of Notre Dame of Chardon, Ohio

Image credit: Presentation of Mary by Titian, 1538. Public Domain via Wikimedia.

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Saint gregory the great, september 03, saint teresa of calcutta, september 05.

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Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

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Image:   Presentation of Mary in the Temple  | Alfonso Boschi | photo by sailko

Saint of the day for november 21.

The Story of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Mary’s presentation was celebrated in Jerusalem in the sixth century. A church was built there in honor of this mystery. The Eastern Church was more interested in the feast, but it does appear in the West in the 11th century. Although the feast at times disappeared from the calendar, in the 16th century it became a feast of the universal Church.

As with Mary’s birth, we read of Mary’s presentation in the temple only in apocryphal literature. In what is recognized as an unhistorical account, the  Protoevangelium of James  tells us that Anna and Joachim offered Mary to God in the Temple when she was 3 years old. This was to carry out a promise made to God when Anna was still childless.

Though it cannot be proven historically, Mary’s presentation has an important theological purpose. It continues the impact of the feasts of the Immaculate Conception and of the birth of Mary. It emphasizes that the holiness conferred on Mary from the beginning of her life on earth continued through her early childhood and beyond.

It is sometimes difficult for modern Westerners to appreciate a feast like this. The Eastern Church, however, was quite open to this feast and even somewhat insistent about celebrating it. Even though the feast has no basis in history, it stresses an important truth about Mary: From the beginning of her life, she was dedicated to God. She herself became a greater temple than any made by hands. God came to dwell in her in a marvelous manner and sanctified her for her unique role in God’s saving work. At the same time, the magnificence of Mary enriches her children. They—we—too are temples of God and sanctified in order that we might enjoy and share in God’s saving work.

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Why do Catholics celebrate the feast of the Presentation?

This feast day celebrates both the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, as well as the Purification of Mary, which was required by the Mosaic Law forty days after the birth of a child.

The Church celebrates the feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2, also called Candlemas for the custom of using lighted candles. In the early Church it was often celebrated on February 14th, 40 days after the Epiphany, in keeping with the practice of celebrating Christmas on that date in the East. Among the Orthodox it is known as the Hypapante (“Meeting” of the Lord with Simeon).

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The Holy Rosary is an amazing prayer, encouraged by popes, loved by saints, and prayed by the faithful. Many miracles have come from this beautiful devotion. At its heart, the Rosary is a meditation on Sacred Scripture, on the lives of Jesus and Mary.

Through this Scriptural Rosary, we hope that you will be able to better meditate on each Hail Mary and deepen your understanding of Sacred Scripture. Use the form below to get your free copy of, The Scriptural Rosary .

Why is the Presentation of Jesus important?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (paragraph 529) teaches,

The presentation of Jesus in the temple shows him to be the firstborn Son who belongs to the Lord. With Simeon and Anna, all Israel awaits its encounter with the Savior-the name given to this event in the Byzantine tradition. Jesus is recognized as the long-expected Messiah, the “light to the nations” and the “glory of Israel,” but also “a sign that is spoken against.” The sword of sorrow predicted for Mary announces Christ's perfect and unique oblation on the cross that will impart the salvation God had “prepared in the presence of all peoples.”

It is also important to note that, as a poor family, the Holy Family gave an offering of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons. However, the Lamb whom they brought to the Temple was the Lamb of God.

At what age was Jesus presented in the temple?

He was presented when He was still a newborn, only 40 days old.

“In the mysterious encounter between Simeon and Mary, the Old and New Testaments are joined. Together the aging prophet and the young mother give thanks for this Light which has kept the darkness from prevailing. It is the Light which shines in the heart of human life: Christ, the Saviour and Redeemer of the world, ‘a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for the glory of his people Israel.’” – Pope St. John Paul II

Who are Simeon and Anna in the Bible?

The Gospel of Luke 2:22-40 states:

And when the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And inspired by the Spirit he came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, “Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word; for mine eyes have seen thy salvation which thou hast prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to thy people Israel.” And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed.” And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. And when they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.

Regarding Simeon and Anna, Pope Benedict XVI said,

Even the priests proved incapable of recognizing the signs of the new and special presence of the Messiah and Saviour. Alone two elderly people, Simeon and Anna, discover this great newness. Led by the Holy Spirit, in this Child they find the fulfilment of their long waiting and watchfulness. They both contemplate the light of God that comes to illuminate the world and their prophetic gaze is opened to the future in the proclamation of the Messiah: “Lumen ad revelationem gentium!” (Lk 2:32). The prophetic attitude of the two elderly people contains the entire Old Covenant which expresses the joy of the encounter with the Redeemer. Upon seeing the Child, Simeon and Anna understood that he was the Awaited One.

“… while we are still at the dawn of Jesus’ life, we are already oriented to Calvary. It is on the Cross that Jesus will be definitively confirmed as a sign of contradiction, and it is there that his Mother’s heart will be pierced by the sword of sorrow. We are told it all from the beginning, on the 40th day after Jesus’ birth, on the feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, so important in the Church’s liturgy.” - Pope St. John Paul II

What does the name “Simeon” mean?

This is a Hebrew name that means “he has heard” or “God has heard.”

When is St. Simeon’s feast day?

The Church celebrates his feast day on the day after Candlemas, February 3.

Was Simeon a prophet?

In Hebrew navi, a prophet is one who tells, a spokesperson of God, speaking divine truth, or foretelling what will be the consequences for the future. On both counts, Simeon was a prophet, who revealed the truth about who Jesus was, as well as the implications for Israel, for Jesus Himself and for Mary.

What does the name “Anna” mean?

Originally taken from the Hebrew name Hannah, it means “favor” or “grace.”

When is St. Anna’s feast day?

Anna the Prophetess shares a feast day with St. Simeon on February 3.

“In the encounter between the old man Simeon and Mary, a young mother, the Old and New Testaments come together in a wondrous way in giving thanks for the gift of the light that shone in the darkness and has prevented it from prevailing: Christ the Lord.” - Pope Benedict XVI

What did Simeon say when he saw Jesus?

St. Simeon offered this prayer,

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word; for mine eyes have seen thy salvation which thou hast prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to thy people Israel. (Luke 2:29-32)

Called the Nunc Dimittis, for the first words in the Latin Vulgate, it is one of the three major Canticles used in the Church’s liturgy. It is said each evening at the end of Night Prayer, the last Divine Office of the Liturgy of the Hours, or Breviary. The other Canticles are that of Zechariah, used for Lauds or Morning Prayer, and of Mary (the Magnificat), used for Vespers or Evening Prayer.

What did Simeon say about Mary?

After speaking of Jesus, St. Simeon then spoke to Mary of her role of accompanying her Son in His redemptive suffering. Simeon reveals, as well, Mary’s own mission of intercession and compassion for us, her spiritual children.

Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed. (Luke 2:34-35)

“This is the meeting point of the two Testaments, Old and New. Jesus enters the ancient temple; he who is the new Temple of God: he comes to visit his people, thus bringing to fulfilment obedience to the Law and ushering in the last times of salvation.” - Pope Benedict XVI

Who is Anna in the Bible?

Anna is the prophetess who saw the Holy Family at the Presentation of Jesus at the temple. The Gospel of Luke 2:36-38 tells us about Anna:

And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

What does the Purification of Mary mean?

The purification was ritual, preparatory to worship, in this case after the momentous events of childbirth and the time of rest or “laying in” afterwards. Thus, the Jewish priest purified himself by bathing before entering the holy place, and, similarly, the priest at Mass washes his hands before beginning the Eucharistic Prayer and handing the Body and Blood of Christ.

Mary, although morally pure, fulfilled her religious obligations by being purified 40 days after Jesus’ birth. Throughout her life, the Blessed Mother was always obedient to God’s Will, in this case expressed through the laws given to Israel through Moses.

“Simeon’s words seem like a second Annunciation to Mary, for they tell her of the actual historical situation in which the Son is to accomplish his mission, namely, in misunderstanding and sorrow. While this announcement on the one hand confirms her faith in the accomplishment of the divine promises of salvation, on the other hand it also reveals to her that she will have to live her obedience of faith in suffering, at the side of the suffering Savior, and that her motherhood will be mysterious and sorrowful.” — Pope St. John Paul II

Why is it called Candlemas Day?

This is the day when candles are blessed in the Church and traditionally have been lit in celebration of the feast.

Pope St. John Paul II said, “Christian traditions of the East and West have been interwoven, enriching the liturgy of this feast with a special procession in which the light of candles both large and small is a symbol of Christ, the true Light who came to illumine his people and all peoples.”

How many days after Christmas is Candlemas celebrated?

Candlemas is celebrated 40 days after Christmas. According to Leviticus 12, women should be purified 40 days after a son’s birth (33 days after the boy’s circumcision) and 80 days after a daughter’s birth. The purification was ritual, and preparatory to worship, in this case after the momentous events of childbirth and the time of rest or “laying in” afterwards.

Is Candlemas the end of Christmas?

In the Ordinary Form of the Latin Rite, the liturgical forms and calendar as revised after the Second Vatican Council, the last day of the Christmas Season is the Baptism of Our Lord, when His hidden life ended and His public ministry began.

However, the Church maintains an Extraordinary Form of the Latin Rite which utilizes the forms and calendar in use prior to the Council. In this usage, the Christmas Season continues until the Feast of the Presentation. Many Catholics, therefore, maintain their Christmas decorations through Candlemas.

What is the significance of Candlemas Day?

Pope St. John Paul II said,

The prophetic words spoken by the aged Simeon shed light on the mission of the Child brought to the temple by his parents: “Behold this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against ... that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed” (Lk 2:34-35). To Mary Simeon said: “And a sword will pierce through your own soul also” (Lk 2:35). The hymns of Bethlehem have now faded and the cross of Golgotha can already be glimpsed; this happens in the temple, the place where sacrifices are offered. The event we are commemorating today is thus a bridge as it were, linking the two most important seasons of the Church's year.

What do you eat on Candlemas?

Pancakes are the traditional choice on Candlemas. In Mexico, people eat tamales on this feast day, and in France, they eat crepes.

What are the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary?

The Joyful Mysteries include:

• The Annunciation
• The Visitation
• The Nativity of Our Lord
• The Presentation in the Temple
• The Finding of Jesus in the Temple

What is the World Day for Consecrated Life?

The Presentation is celebrated in the Church as the World Day for Consecrated Life. Pope St. John Paul II instituted this annual celebration in 1997 as a day of prayer for religious men and women and other consecrated persons. This recalls the special offering which they have made to the Lord through their vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. In Rome, the Holy Father celebrates a special Mass for them at St. Peter’s, which the religious living in Rome attend.

Pope Benedict XVI said,

The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple is an eloquent image of the total gift of one’s life for all those, men and women, who are called to represent “the characteristic features of Jesus — the chaste, poor and obedient one” (Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation, Vita Consecrata, n. 1) in the Church and in the world, through the evangelical counsels. For this reason Venerable John Paul II chose today’s Feast to celebrate the Annual World Day of Consecrated Life.

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"God calls us through what happens during our day: through the suffering and happiness of the people we live with, through the human interests of our colleagues and the things that make up our family life.” Saint Josemaría

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Reflections for the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

Introduction:    This feast commemorates how Jesus, as a baby, was presented to God in the Temple in Jerusalem. This presentation finds its complete and perfect fulfillment in the mystery of the passion, death and Resurrection of the Lord. The  Feast of the Presentation of the Lord   is a combined feast ,  commemorating the Jewish practice of the  purification of the mother  after childbirth and the  presentation of the child  to God in the Temple and his buying back ( redemption ) from God. It is also known as the  Feast of the Purification of Mary , and the Feast  of Candlemas.  It is also called the  Feast of Encounter  ( Hypapánte  in Greek) because the New Testament, represented by the baby Jesus, encountered the Old Testament, represented by Simeon and Anna. Joseph offered two pigeons in the Temple as sacrifice for the purification of Mary after her childbirth and for the presentation and redemption ceremonies performed for baby Jesus.

Homily starter anecdote: “Four chaplains Sunday:  Julia Duin in the Washington Times Sunday, February 1, 2009 told this story. Just after midnight on Feb. 3, 1943, an act of extraordinary unselfishness by a group of men became a legend of martyrdom and sacrifice. When the Army ship Dorchester was torpedoed by the Germans just south of Greenland that night, its passengers and crew had 25 minutes to get off the boat. As 902 people went for the life jackets, it quickly was discovered there weren’t near enough. Of the 13 lifeboats, only two functioned. In the ship’s final minutes, Methodist senior chaplain George Lansing Fox, Rabbi Alexander Goode, Dutch Reformed minister Clark V. Poling and John P. Washington, a Roman Catholic priest, were helping passengers leave the vessel. Then four men appeared all of them without life jackets. The chaplains quickly gave up their own vests and went down with the ship, perishing in the freezing water. Survivors saw them, locked arm in arm, praying and singing the Navy hymn, “Eternal Father, Strong to Save” just before the ship dove beneath the waves. It was a night as dramatic as the sinking of the Titanic but without a blockbuster movie to record the drama. “The Four Immortal Chaplains,” as they are now known, have been honored many times, including on a stamp issued in their honor by the U.S. Postal Service. Hence the first Sunday in February is known as “Four Chaplains Sunday” in some Christian denominations.  They presented and offered themselves completely for the wellbeing of others as Jesus was presented to God his Heavenly Father in the Temple of Jerusalem for the salvation of the world. ( http://frtonyshomilies.com/).

Scripture lessons summarized:   In the   first reading,  taken from Malachi, the prophet speaks of the Lord suddenly coming to Jerusalem to purify the lax, lazy and indifferent priests of His Temple as silver is purified by fire. Simeon saw the Infant Jesus as the fulfillment of this passage. He saw Jesus as the Lord Who has come to the Temple,  "destined to be the downfall and rise of many in Israel."    In the second reading,  St. Paul   proclaims Jesus as our Eternal High Priest of     the New Covenant (Heb 2:17), Who offered himself on the altar of Calvary, the only pure priestly sacrifice that could please God.    He replaces the former priesthood.  The Gospel  describes how Joseph, as the head of the Holy Family of Nazareth, presented Mary and the baby Jesus in the Temple of God for the mother’s purification and the Child’s “redemption.” It also describes the Holy Family’s encounter with the old prophet Simeon and the holy old widow Anna. In his prophecy, Simeon extols the divine blessings which the Messiah is bringing to Israel and to all men and predicts that Mary will play a crucial and sacrificial role in her Son's redemptive work by sharing in her Son's sufferings.

The first reading explained : Malachi prophesies in the first reading that the Lord is going to appear suddenly in the Temple of Jerusalem  to purify its priests and the people . The prophecy warns that nobody can endure the day of the messenger's coming because he will be like a refining fire, purifying the sons of Levi.  Led by the Spirit,  Simeon saw the Infant Jesus as the fulfillment of this passage .  Simeon, even if unknown to himself, foresaw Christ and His priests of the New Covenant who were ordained during the Last Supper. He saw Jesus as the Lord Who would come to the Temple,  "destined to be the downfall and rise of many in Israel."  In today's reading, Malachi prophesies that God will purify the lax, lazy and indifferent priests of His Temple as silver is purified by fire.  At the time of Malachi (around 460-450 BC), the priests were offering blemished (blind, lame) sacrifices and giving bad example (1:6-2:4).  The people were negligent in their support of the Temple (3:6-12). Israelite wives were being rejected by husbands who wished to marry foreign women (2:14-16). Social injustice was rampant (3:5), and the people doubted God’s love (1:2-5). Hence, Malachi reminds them that the Day of the Lord, a Day of Judgment, reward and retribution is coming. He describes the Divine intervention as a two-stage process. First God’s messenger will appear to prepare the way by purifying the clergy and refining the cult (v. 3). This purification will take place until they present offerings to the Lord in a spirit of justice and righteousness. Then, the Lord of Hosts will suddenly appear in the Temple (v. 1), to bring judgment and justice against unfaithful sinners (v. 5). The Psalm announces to Jerusalem that Jerusalem is about to receive a great visitor. The Psalmist identifies him as “The LORD of hosts … the king of glory.”

The second reading explained:  The second reading proclaims Jesus as our Eternal High Priest of the New Covenant (Heb 2:17), Who offered Himself on the altar of Calvary, the only pure priestly sacrifice that could please God. The  Didache  or the first catechism of the early Church (14:1-3), saw Malachi’s prophecy of a pure sacrifice and offering made from east to west as a prophecy of the sacrifice of the Eucharist.  Hence Malachi prophesies that the Lord will enter His Temple, there will be a renewed priesthood, and there will be a pure sacrifice offered worldwide and pleasing to God -- the Eucharist. Jesus became like us in all things except sin in order that He might offer to the Father perfect praise and glory.  Besides, since Jesus fully shared our experience, He is now a merciful and faithful High Priest on our behalf,  "able to help those who are being tested."   Jesus replaces the former priesthood. In keeping with the theme of today’s feast, namely, the presentation of the first fruits, this excerpt from Hebrews emphasizes Jesus’ dual role, as  first-fruits ,  par excellence , and as the  faithful High priest  Who presents the perfect gift of Himself to God for the expiation of human sin. By virtue of His Incarnation, Jesus became human in every way (vv. 17-18) except as regards sin. As representative of His brothers and sisters before God and as their Mediator, Christ perfected His service as both sacrifice and priest. By so doing, Christ was able to “rob the devil” of power (v. 14). As the first-fruits from the dead, as the conqueror of sin and death, Christ, in His person and through His mission, has set the course and cleared the way we are to follow; the decision to do so must be a daily and deliberate one.  It takes faith to see God's power at work in the death of Jesus.  Simeon hinted at this when he told Mary that she herself would be pierced with a sword.  Even knowing that her Son was the Savior of the world, it would be difficult for Mary to see him accomplish that salvation by being crucified.

Exegesis of today’s Gospel:  The birth of Christ was revealed by three kinds of witnesses in three different ways -- first, by the shepherds, after the angel's announcement; second, by the Magi, who were guided by a star; third, by Simeon and Anna, who were inspired by the Holy Spirit. Today’s Gospel describes the Presentation of the Baby Jesus in the Temple. It was intended to ritually redeem Jesus who was the first born in the family and where Mary herself will have to be ritually purified. Mary and Joseph was a typical pious Jewish couple, who went to the Temple in obedience to do all that was required and expected of them by the Law.The Feast of the Presentation of Jesus is a combined feast , commemorating the Jewish practice of the purification of the mother after childbirth and the presentation of the child in the Temple. It is known as the Hypapánte   feast or Feast of the Purification of Mary (by the offering two pigeons in the Temple), the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord (by prayers and a sacrifice offered in the Temple to redeem or buy the firstborn male child back from the Lord), the Feast of Candlemas (because of its ancient rite of blessing of the candles to be used in the church for the next year — a practice dating from the middle of the fifth century) and the Feast of Encounter (because the New Testament, represented by the Baby Jesus, encountered the Old Testament, represented by Simeon and Anna). Originally, there was no connection between today’s festival and the blessing of candles.    In the ancient East, this celebration occurred on February 14, forty days after Epiphany.   On February 15, pagans celebrated the festival of Lupercalia , a great “light” festival.    Perhaps this is an instance of the Church's “baptizing” a pagan custom.    At the principal Mass, the celebrant blesses candles, and people take part in a candlelight procession.    This should remind us that Jesus is our High Priest and the Light of the World.

Purification and redemption ceremonies : The Gospel describes how Joseph, as the head of the Holy Family of Nazareth, presented Mary and the baby Jesus in the Temple of God for the mother’s purification and the child’s “redemption.” According to Leviticus 12:2-8, a woman who bore a child was unclean  for forty days following the birth of a son or eighty days following the birth of a daughter.   Although Mary, the most holy of women, ever-Virgin, was exempt from these precepts of the Law, because of her miraculous conception, she chose to submit herself to the Law just like any other Jewish mother. Joseph and Mary showed their total submission to Law and obey the norms prescribed by the Old Testament.  The custom was practiced probably for the physical and emotional re-integration of the new mother into the community. There was a religious reason as well. Exodus 13:2, 12-13 prescribes that every first-born male belongs to God and must be set apart for the Lord, that is, dedicated to the service of God.  However, once divine worship was reserved to the tribe of Levi, first-born who did not belong to that tribe were not dedicated to God's service, and to show that they continued to be God's special property, a rite of redemption was performed. The Law also commanded that the Israelites should offer in sacrifice some lesser victim -- for example, a lamb or, if they were poor, a pair of doves or two pigeons.  The Book of Numbers 18: 15 taught that since every Jewish firstborn male child belonged to Yahweh, the parents had to “buy back” (redeem), the child by offering a lamb or turtledoves as a sacrifice in the Temple. The price of redemption for a human baby is five shekels of silver (Num 18:15-16). Jesus never needed to be "bought back," as he belonged wholly to the Lord, but Joseph kept these laws as an act of obedience to God. 

The encounter with Simeon and Anna :   By the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the old, pious and Spirit-filled Simeon and Anna had been waiting in the Temple for the revelation of God’s salvation. The Greek Church celebrates the Hypapánte or Feast of the Encounter commemorating the encounter of the New Testament represented by Jesus with the Old Testament represented by Simeon and Anna. Simeon, who is described as a righteous and devout man, obedient to God's will, addresses himself to our Lord as a vassal or loyal servant who, having kept watch all his life in expectation of the coming of his Lord, sees that this moment has "now" come, the moment that explains his whole life.  When he takes the Child in his arms, he learns, not through any reasoning process but through a special grace from God, that this Child is the promised Messiah, the Consolation of Israel, the Light of the nations.  Simeon recognizes Jesus as the Lord’s anointed one, and in his prayer of blessing he prophesies that Jesus is meant to be the glory of Israel and the light of revelation to the Gentiles. Pope Francis: “Simeon took him in his arms and thanked God that he had finally “seen” salvation. Anna, despite her advanced age, found new vigor and began to speak to everyone about the Baby. It is a beautiful image: two young parents and two elderly people, brought together by Jesus. He is the one who brings together and unites generations! He is the inexhaustible font of that love which overcomes every occasion of self-absorption, solitude, and sadness. In your journey as a family, you share so many beautiful moments: meals, rest, housework, leisure, prayer, trips and pilgrimages, and times of mutual support… Nevertheless, if there is no love then there is no joy, and authentic love comes to us from Jesus. He offers us his word, which illuminates our path; he gives us the Bread of life which sustains us on our journey.”

Simeon’s prophecy: Simeon's canticle (verses 29-32) is also a prophecy.  It consists of two stanzas: the first (verses 29-30) is his act of thanksgiving to God, filled with profound joy for having seen the Messiah.  The second (verses 31-32) is more obviously prophetic and extols the divine blessings which the Messiah is bringing to Israel and to all men.  The canticle highlights the fact that Christ brings redemption to all men without exception -- something foretold in many Old Testament prophecies (cf. Genesis 22:18; Isaiah 2:6; 42:6; 60:3; Psalm 28:2). While Simeon blessed Mary, he warned her that her child would be “ a sign of contradiction, ” and that she would be “ pierced with a sword.” Simeon was prophesying both the universal salvation that would be proclaimed by Jesus and the necessity of suffering in the mission of the Messiah. Jesus came to bring salvation to all men, yet He would be a sign of contradiction because some people would obstinately reject Him -- and for this reason He would be their ruin.  But for those who would accept Him with faith, Jesus would be their salvation, freeing them from sin in this life and raising them up to eternal life. The Blessed Virgin and St. Joseph marveled, but not because they did not know who Christ was. They were in awe at the way God was revealing Him. 

The paradox of blessedness:  Mary was given the blessedness of being the mother of the Son of God.  That blessedness also would become a sword which would pierce her heart as her Son died upon the cross. The words Simeon addressed to Mary announced that she would be intimately linked with her Son's redemptive work.  The sword indicated that Mary would have a share in her Son's sufferings. Her suffering would be an unspeakable pain which would pierce her soul.  Our Lord suffered on the cross for our sins, and it is those sins which forged the sword of Mary's pain.  Mary received both a crown of joy and a cross of sorrow.  But her joy was not diminished by her sorrow because it was fueled by her faith, hope, and trust in God and his promises.  Jesus promised his disciples, "no one will take your joy from you" (John 16:22).  The Lord gives us a supernatural joy which enables us to bear any sorrow or pain and which neither life nor death can take way.  Do you know the joy of a life fully surrendered to God with faith and trust? According to Dr. Scot Hann, the feast we celebrate shows a curious turn of events. The Redeemer is redeemed. She who is all-pure presents herself to be purified. Such is the humility of our God. Such is the humility of the Blessed Virgin. They submit to the law even though they are not bound by it.

Anna’s encounter with the Lord and her testifying to the Messiah:  Anna was an eighty-four-year-old widow who spent her days in the Temple in fasting and prayer, waiting for the promised Messiah. She was rewarded with the joy of seeing her Redeemer as a Baby. In her excitement, she praised God and introduced the Infant to others around her as the expected Messiah. Supernatural hope grows with prayer and age!  Anna was pre-eminently a woman of great hope and expectation that God would fulfill all his promises. She is a model of godliness for all believers as we advance in age.  Advancing age and the disappointments of life can easily make us cynical and hopeless if we do not have our hope placed rightly. Anna's hope in God and His promises grew with age. She never ceased to worship God in faith and to pray with hope.  Her hope and faith in God's promises fueled her indomitable zeal and fervor in prayer and the service of God's people. We grow in hope by placing our trust in the promises of Jesus Christ and relying not on our own strength, but on the grace and help of the Holy Spirit. After completing the presentation and redemption of baby Jesus and the ritual purification of Mary and the meeting with Simeon and Anna, Joseph and Mary understood more fully their responsibility before God to protect the child as they return to Nazareth

Life messages : 1)  Every Holy Mass in which we participate is our presentation . Although we were officially presented to God on the day of our Baptism, we present ourselves and our dear ones on the altar before God our Father through our Savior Jesus Christ at every Holy Mass. Hence, we need to live our daily lives with the awareness both that we are dedicated people consecrated to God and that we are obliged to lead holy lives.

2) We need the assistance of the Holy Spirit to recognize the presence of Jesus in ourselves and in others: All those who, like Simeon and Anna, persevere in piety and in the service of God, no matter how insignificant their lives seem in men's eyes, become instruments the Holy Spirit uses to make Christ known to others. In His plan of redemption, God makes use of these simple souls to do much good for all mankind. In other words, The Holy Spirit employs ordinary men and women with simple faith as His instruments to bear witness to Christ, His ideals and teachings, just as He used Simeon and Anna.  The Holy Spirit reveals the presence of the Lord to us when we are receptive and eager to receive Him.  Let us be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit within us to recognize the indwelling presence of the Lord with us and in others.  (Fr. Antony Kadavil)

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Feast of the Presentation of Mary

The celebration of Mary’s presentation in Jerusalem dates back to the sixth century, marked by the construction of a dedicated church. This event held greater significance within the Eastern Church and later emerged in the Western Church in the 11th century. Although its observance fluctuated over time, by the 16th century, it was firmly established as a feast for the entire Church.

The story of Mary’s presentation in the temple is found only in apocryphal texts, notably the Protoevangelium of James. According to this narrative, Mary’s parents, Anna and Joachim, dedicated her to God at the temple when she was three years old, fulfilling a vow made during Anna’s childlessness.

While lacking historical verification, the theological significance of Mary’s presentation is profound. It complements the feasts of the Immaculate Conception and Mary’s birth, highlighting the continuity of her sanctity from her early life onwards. This event underscores the belief in Mary’s lifelong holiness, a central theme in Christian theology.

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21 comments.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother; to you do I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

I was wondering if there is a book about the life of Mary from her birth to her death, and if so, where can I buy it.

The book that contains the life of Mary is The Mystical City of God by Mary of Agreda. A book that has been approved by the Church.

You can buy it on Amazon.com or any Catholic book store.

I have the book. It’s very deep. Mary of Agreda was the author. Mel Gibson used her account of the Passion in his movie, The Passion of Christ.

Dr. Mark Mira Valle does some great books on St Mary and St Joseph. They’re called ‘Meet your Mother’ and ‘Meet your Spiritual Father’, respectively. You can get them from Lighthouse Catholic media.

we fly to thy patronage o holy mother of God despise not our prayers in our necessites but deliver us from all dangers o ever glorious and blessed virgin mary.Amen

O Domina mea, Sancta Maria, me, in tuam benedictam fidem ac singularem custodiam et in sinum misericordiae tuae hodie et quotidie et in hora exitus meae. Animam meam et corpus meum tibi commendo. Omnem spem et consolationem meam, omnes angustias et miserias meas; vitam ac finem vitae tibi committo ut per tuam sanctissimam intercessionem et per tua merita omnia mea dirigantur et disponantur opera secundum tuam tuique Filii voluntatem. Amen.

The book is also free online. Go to: http://www.themostholyrosary.com/mystical-city.htm

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Oh my Mother! Your parents dedicated you from the very beginning, before even birth, before even conception! I have dedicated my children, myself, and my husband/our marriage to you! Please pour your graces out upon us so that we can lead lives of holiness. Thank you for your willingness, obedience, and love. AMEN

Where in the bible can i find the reading of St Joaquim and St. Ann presenting little mary in the temple?

Evelyn, the account of the presentation is in the Proevangelium of James, which is not one of the canonical books of scripture.

Sorry, Protoevangelium*

Thank you for Your love, O Mary our Mother.

Life is good and the love of God.

We supplicate you, dear Vatican, to declare the doctrine of the partnership of Mary with redemption… In this verse of Cana wedding, Christ proclaims his mother’s partnership in the sacrament of redemption: He changed his appointed time before the creation of the world with his Father, when Mary asked for, and he returned and made the miracle, because he wants to understand us the partnership of Mary in the offering And in the hour of glory which the Father gave with the thundering voice of the multitude, this was for them and not for Christ, and in the hour of crucifixion, the turning of wine to blood which is of the blood of Mary. From this cried the Eastern and Western fathers of Mary: O partner of redemption … Just as she participated in the transformation of water to wine .. She participated in the transformation by her son, of wine to blood for salvation in love…

My Queen and my Mother, I give myself entirely to you, and, in proof of my affection, I give you my eyes, my ears, my tongue, my heart, my whole being without reserve. Since I am your own, keep me and guard me as your property and possession. Amen.

1 Samuel 15:22-24 (rsvce) 22 And Samuel said, “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. 23 For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has also rejected you from being king.” 24 And Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned; for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help, help us to embrace Fear of the Lord, and pledge our obedience to Heaven opposing all enemies who exist in preternatural influence rather than Supernatural Truth. Thank you for your heroic virtue, for gathering us to stand with you at the foot of Christ Crucified, for your obedience to holy law, for the faith and example of Saints Anne and Joachim, your astonishing parents, who educated you, loved you, knowing your perfection of humility. Amen.

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Life of Mary: Presentation of our Lady

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Joachim and Anne offered their daughter to God in the Temple at Jerusalem, just as another Anne, the mother of the prophet Samuel, had offered her son to God’s service.

The years of Mary’s childhood were quiet, as befits her humility. Holy Scripture tells us nothing about them. Nevertheless, it is easy to understand why the early Christians were eager to know more about her life prior to the Gospel account of the Annunciation. And so, popular piety gave rise quite early to some simple stories inspired by passages from the Old and New Testament, and these found their way into Christian art, poetry, and spirituality.

One of these stories, perhaps the most typical, speaks about Mary’s Presentation in the Temple. Joachim and Anne offered their daughter to God in the Temple at Jerusalem, just as another Anne, the mother of the prophet Samuel, had offered her son to God’s service in the tabernacle where his glory was manifested (cf. 1 Sam 1:21-28). In the same way, some years later, Mary and Joseph would bring the newborn Child to the Temple to present him to the Lord (Lk 2:22-38).

Strictly speaking, no history exists of our Lady’s early life; we have only what tradition has handed down to us. The first written text that refers to this event (which became the basis for later accounts) is the  Protoevangelium of James , an apocryphal document from the second century. “Apocryphal” means that it does not belong to the canon of books inspired by God. But this doesn’t mean it contains nothing true. In fact, the Church includes this scene in her liturgy, omitting possibly legendary elements. In Jerusalem, in the year 543, a basilica was dedicated to our Lady in memory of her Presentation. In the fourteenth century, this observance was commemorated in the West as a liturgical feast on November 21.

Mary in the Temple. All her beauty and grace, in both soul and body, was for the Lord. That is the theological content of the feast of her Presentation. The liturgy applies to our Lady some phrases from the Old Testament: “In the holy tent I ministered before him, and in Zion I fixed my abode. Thus in the chosen city he has given me rest, in Jerusalem is my domain. I have struck root among the glorious people, in the portion of the Lord, his heritage” (Sir 24:10-12).

Just as Jesus after he was presented in the Temple, Mary would have continued living a normal life at home with Joachim and Anne. Subject to her parents, growing towards womanhood, Mary was “full of grace” (Lk 1:28), her heart ready for a complete self-giving to God and mankind for the love of God.

No one would have noticed anything unusual about Mary’s behavior, though without doubt she charmed those around her because holiness is always attractive—more so in the case of one who is All-Holy. She was a smiling, hard-working young girl, always immersed in God, pleasant to everyone at her side. When she prayed, with a deep understanding of Holy Scripture, she would have often reflected on the prophecies that announced the coming of a Savior. That interior richness would later be poured forth in the marvelous verses of the  Magnificat  when she heard the greeting of her cousin Elizabeth.

Everything in our Lady’s life was wholly oriented towards Jesus’ Most Holy Humanity, the true Temple of God. The feast of Mary’s Presentation teaches us that our Lady belonged only to God, that she was completely dedicated, in soul and body, to the mystery of salvation, which is the mystery of our Creator drawing near to his creatures.

“Like a cedar of Lebanon I am raised aloft, like a cypress on Mount Hermon, like a palm tree in Engedi, like a rose bush in Jericho, like a fair olive tree in the field, like a plane tree growing beside the water” (Sir 24:13-14). Holy Mary brought God’s love to fruition around her. She did so without being noticed, because her deeds were those of every day, little things imbued with love.

J.A. Loarte in OpusDei.us

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Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary In The Temple

21 November – Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary In The Temple

A prayer to Our Lady to celebrate the Feast of her Presentation in the Temple, by St Alphonsus Liguori from ‘the Glories of Mary’:

Oh holy Lady know that already through thy prayers the Son of God is hastening to come and redeem the world, and know that thou art the blessed one chosen to be the Mother of God, most holy Child, thou prayest for all, pray also for me.

Thou hast consecrated thyself wholly even from infancy to the love of thy God. Obtain for me at least during the remaining years of my life that I may live for God alone.

Today, together with thee, I renounce all creatures, and consecrate myself to the love of my Lord. I also offer myself to thee, oh my queen to serve thee forever. Accept me for thy special servant and obtain for me the grace to be faithful to thee and to thy Son, so that I may come one day to praise thee and love thee in paradise. Amen.

Meditation The feast of the presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple dates back to the 6th Century in the East and to the 14th Century in the West. The feast celebrates the tradition recounted in James’ apocryphal gospel that at a very early age, Mary went to the temple to totally consecrate her life to God. The Church didn’t want to underline the apocryphal account but wanted to celebrate the fact that Mary, from the very moment of her conception, belonged totally to God to fulfil His Divine Will. The feast has its origins in the dedication of the Church of ‘Santa Maria Nuova’ in Jerusalem in543 AD.

This feast permits a meditation on Mary’s hidden life. Apart from the events relayed in the Gospels little is known about Mary’s life. From the Gospels we do know that Mary was always ‘the handmaid of the Lord’ (LK 1:38). The Angel Gabriel’s greeting at the Annunciation tells us something about her as she is referred to as ‘full of grace’(LK 1:28), which really means, ‘full of God’. Mary’s sanctity wasn’t something that occurred from the Annunciation onwards, but she was always holy as she was ‘full of grace’ and without sin. She lived a life that was always holy and that was devoted to God.

Mary is the daughter of the Father, that long awaited daughter of Israel, who was always in a continuous dialogue with God in her soul. Today, is the feast of her total consecration to God and her full dedication to the Divine Plan. She never denied God anything and she always corresponded perfectly to His Grace and the Holy Spirit and as such is the perfect model of consecration for all Christians whatever our particular vocation.

Mary dedicated herself totally to God at an age when a child starts to have the ability to use her own reason. She was always aware that God does not accept a divided heart but wants the total fulfilment of His Will.

This feast is a good occasion to renew our donation to God, to try to carry out our daily duties in the Lord’s service.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church: The Virgin Mary “co-operated through free faith and obedience in human salvation” (LG 56). She uttered her yes “in the name of all human nature” (St. Thomas Aquinas, STh III, 30, 1). By her obedience she became the new Eve, mother of the living. (CCC 511)

The Word of God: ‘For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.’ MK 3:35

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The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple

Jul 23, 2015 / Written by: America Needs Fatima

Feast November 21

On the feast of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, we celebrate the fact that Our Lady’s parents brought her to the Temple at the age of three and handed her over to live there for a long period as a consecrated virgin where she might exclusively contemplate God.

There is a special beauty to this feast since it highlights the fact that Our Lady was chosen even before time began. She is called the root of Jesse (Isaiah, 11:1) from which Our Lord Jesus Christ would be born.

She is introduced to the synagogue, the institution in charge of keeping this promise. Thus, the synagogue receives Our Lady as a first step. In this act, the hopes of ages would soon be fulfilled.

Our Lady, a supremely holy soul, is received in the Temple and entered into the service of God.

Despite the corruption of the nation of Israel and the transformation of the Temple into a den of the Pharisees, an incomparable light appeared: the sanctity of Our Lady.

Unknowingly, Our Lady began to prepare herself to become the Mother of Our Lord Jesus Christ. In an atmosphere of grace in the Temple, she was set apart from everyone in order to serve God.

She increased her love of God until she formed the ardent desire for the imminent coming of the Messiah and asked God if she might have the honor to be the servant of His Mother.

She did not know that she was the one chosen for this honor. That is why she was perplexed when the Archangel Gabriel greeted her to ask her permission for the Incarnation.

Our Lady’s magnificent preparation to be the Mother of Jesus Christ began with her Presentation in the Temple, a feast the Church celebrates on November 21.

It is fitting that we ask Our Lady to prepare us with the best of Catholic doctrine to serve God by serving her.

We should present ourselves before Our Lady, asking her to assist us in taking up the task of our sanctification, as the Holy Ghost did with her in the Temple of Jerusalem.

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Ordinary Time: February 2nd

Feast of the presentation of the lord.

Other Commemorations: St. Catherine de Ricci, Virgin (RM) ; Other Titles: Candlemas

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February 02, 2019 (Readings on USCCB website)

COLLECT PRAYER

Almighty ever-living God, we humbly implore your majesty that, just as your Only Begotten Son was presented on this day in the Temple in the substance of our flesh, so, by your grace, we may be presented to you with minds made pure. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever.

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• Light For The Nations, Glory Of Israel | Pope Saint John Paul II
• Presentation Prefigures the Cross | Pope Saint John Paul II
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• The Purification, Commonly Called Candlemas-Day | Alban Butler
• The Season's Finale | Dr. Pius Parsch

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• Contemplating the Christmas Mysteries: He is Light and Peace
• Luke’s Gospel: The Radical Challenge of Jesus Christ
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• The End of Christmas: Dispelling the Misconceptions
• The Presentation of the Lord: A Light for the Nations

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Simeon and Anna were two venerable elderly people dedicated to prayer and fasting and so their strong religious spirit rendered them able to recognize the Messiah. In this sense we can see in the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple an extension of the ‘ Pro Orantibus Day’ (For those who pray) that is celebrated on the feast of the Presentation of Mary (21 November). On this day, the Church demonstrates its gratitude to all those in the community that dedicate themselves in a privileged way to prayer, to those who have a particular religious vocation to the contemplative life. In the figure of the venerable Simeon, Jesus’ presentation in the temple, also reminds us that prayer and contemplation are not just a waste of time or an obstacle to charity. On the contrary, time could not be better spent than in prayer as true Christian charity is a consequence of a solid interior life. Only those who pray and offer penance, like Simeon and Anna, are open to the breath of the Spirit. They know how to recognize the Lord in the circumstances in which He manifests Himself because they possess an ample interior vision, and they have learned how to love with the heart of the One whose very name is Charity.

— Excerpted from Congregation for the Clergy

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Purification of Our Lady

Besides commemorating the presentation of Christ in the Temple, this day has another meaning, for it is called Candlemass Day. The candle is one of the most widely used sacramentals in the Church; one blessed in a special Mass.

We use candles at Baptism, at Mass and other church services, at the ordination of a priest, the consecration of a bishop, at Easter, at Christmas to signify the coming of Christ. Two blessed candles should be in every home, to use in times of sickness, death, storms and calamities.

In the blessing of candles the Church reminds us that the candles signify light; they are blessed for the service of men, for health of body and soul, for those who desire to carry them in their hands with honor. Christ, the true Light and Fire of Charity, is asked to bless these candles; to dispel the darkness of night, to free us from the blindness of vice and to discern what is pleasing to Him and profitable for our salvation.

On the Feast of Mary’s Purification, we greet her with lighted candles – shining with faith and understanding, burning with love and zeal, as Sion welcomed Christ the King; today we go to Christ through Mary, to Christ, the new Light that gives Faith, Hope and Charity to us all.

The two-fold Jewish rites to which the Holy Family submitted on this occasion were the legal purifying of the mother after childbirth and the offering of the first-born male child to the Lord. They showed reverence for the Father’s Law by fulfilling its obligations, and so the Mother submitted to the Purification in all humility.

Angels beheld in wondering awe what was the greatest event the Temple had ever witnessed. It was nothing less than the second coming of the Lord to His Temple, which the prophets had foretold. At the Presentation, God the Son made Man took possession of the Temple built for His Father’s glory, and so ratified the worship which is offered to God in sacred courts, churches.

This simple ceremony is the link between the mystery of the Incarnation and the Redemption; here the Savior renews the oblation of Himself; “Sacrifice and oblation Thou wouldst not; but a body Thou hast fitted to me. Then, I said: “Behold, I come: in the head of the book it is written of me that I should do Thy will, O God.”

Jesus really begins His Passion in this mystery of the Presentation; and so, too, Mary begins her dolors. It is by Mary’s hands that Jesus makes the oblation which is the prelude to His Sacrifice. We reckon the Presentation among the joyful mysteries, but it is also first in place among Mary’s Sorrows.

Simeon enlightened by the Holy Spirit, understood the mystery and so, too, did Mary. After his first transports of joy at seeing the Messiah, he blessed them and said to His Mother, “Behold this Child is set for the fall and the resurrection of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be contradicted, and they own soul a sword shall pierce, that out of many hearts, thoughts may be revealed.”

This prophecy reminds us that Mary is always to be associated with the destiny of Jesus, the one solitary partner of His lot, singled out to suffer with Him. Heresies that pierced the Son have transpierced the Mother. The early Church guarded the doctrines of Jesus by defining Mary’s titles; today those who repudiate the honor of Mary, turn from the Son also; in the mind of satan as in the mind of the Church, the honor of Son and Mother go together.

The Church of Jerusalem was the first to celebrate the feast. On this day, also, a procession was held to the Constantinian basilica. The Armenians still keep the day on February 14th, and call it "The Coming of the Son of God into the Temple." The Greeks called it "Hypapante," the meeting of the Child Jesus and His Mother with Simeon and Anna in to Temple.

This feast reminds us how intimately Mary is associated with her Son in the work of Redemption. We welcome Her Child to our hearts with love and faith, we bless the Mother, too; for she had “not spared her life by reason of the distress and tribulation of her people, but has prevented our ruin in the presence of our God.”

From The Woman in Orbit and Mary's Book of Days

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Prayer For The Presentation Of The Blessed Virgin Mary

Troparion of the Vigil Today Anne brings us glad tidings, bearing in her arms the precious fruit that dispels all sorrow, the one being ever-precious fruit that dispels all sorrow, the one being ever-virginal. In fulfillment of her vow, she joyfully presents on this day in the Lord's temple the true tabernacle of the Word of God, His immaculate Mother. Troparion Today is the prelude to God's munificence and the announcement of the salvation of men: in the temple of God the Virgin is visible to all foretelling the coming of Christ. Wherefore let us cry out to her with all our strength: Hail, fulfillment of the Creator's plan. Kontakion The most pure temple of the Saviour, the most precious bridal chamber, the Virgin, the sacred treasury of God's glory, enters today into the house of the Lord, bringing with her the grace of the divine Spirit. Wherefore the angels of God sing to her: Behold the heavenly Tabernacle. Hirmos The angels were stunned as they beheld the most pure one coming in, and they said: O Wonder. The Virgin enters into the Holy of Holies. O Mother of God, you are the precious Ark of God: no profane hand may touch you. But the lips of the faithful will never cease to sing your praise, repeating with joy the angel's word: O pure Virgin, you are indeed raised above all creatures. Kinonikon I will take the chalice of salvation and call upon the name of the Lord. Alleluia.

O blessed Virgin Mary! who can duly thank thee, or herald forth thy praises, who, by the assent of thy single will, didst rescue a fallen world? What honor can be paid to thee by our weak human nature, which, by thy intervention alone, hath found the way to return to grace and life? Accept then, such poor thanks as we have here to offer, unequal to thy merits though they be; and, accepting our good desires, obtain by thy prayers the remission of our offenses. Graciously hear our prayers, and obtain for us the remedy of reconciliation.

May the offering we make to God through thee, through thee be acceptable in his sight; and may that be granted which we ask with trustful heart. Accept our offerings, grant us our petitions, banish our fears; for thou art the sole hope of sinners. Through thee we hope for forgiveness of our sins; and in thee, most blessed Lady, is the hope of our reward.

Holy Mary, succor the wretched, help the fainthearted, comfort the sorrowful, pray for the people, shield the clergy, intercede for holy women; let all who celebrate thy holy commemoration feel thy protection. Be thou at hand, ready to aid our prayers, and obtain for us what we desire. Make it thy care, blessed Lady, to intercede ever for the people of God--thou who didst deserve to bear the Redeemer of the world, who liveth and reigneth, for ever and ever. Amen.

O God, Who didst will that on this day the blessed ever Virgin Mary, the dwelling-place of the Holy Ghost, should be presented in the temple: grant, we beseech Thee, that through her intercession, we may be made worthy to be presented in the temple of Thy glory. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.

Praise to Mary, Heaven's Gate, Guiding Star of Christians' way, Mother of our Lord and King, Light and hope to souls astray.

When you heard the call of God Choosing to fulfill his plan, By your perfect act of love Hope was born in fallen man.

Help us to amend our ways, Halt the devil's strong attack, Walk with us the narrow path, Beg for us the grace we lack.

Mary, show your motherhood, Bring your children's prayers to Christ, Christ, your son, who ransomed man, Who, for us, was sacrificed.

Virgin chosen, singly blest, Ever faithful to God's call, Guide us in this earthy life, Guard us lest, deceived, we fall.

Mary, help us live our faith So that we may see your son; Join our humble prayers to yours, Till life's ceaseless war is won.

Praise the Father, praise the Son, Praise the holy Paraclete; Offer all through Mary's hands, Let her make our prayers complete.

Mary the dawn, Christ the Perfect Day; Mary the gate, Christ the Heavenly Way!

Mary the root, Christ the Mystic Vine; Mary the grape, Christ the Sacred Wine!

Mary the wheat, Christ the Living Bread; Mary the stem, Christ the Rose blood-red!

Mary the font, Christ the Cleansing Flood; Mary the cup, Christ the Saving Blood!

Mary the temple, Christ the temple's Lord; Mary the shrine, Christ the God adored!

Mary the beacon, Christ the Haven's Rest; Mary the mirror, Christ the Vision Blest!

Mary the mother, Christ the mother's Son By all things blest while endless ages run. Amen.

O Mary of all women, you are the chosen one, Who, ancient prophets promised, would bear God's only Son; All Hebrew generations prepared the way to thee, That in your womb the God-man might come to set us free.

O Mary, you embody all God taught to our race, For you are first and foremost in fullness of his grace; We praise this wondrous honor that you gave birth to Him Who from you took humanity and saved us from our sin.

When she was only three years old, the Blessed Virgin Mary was taken to the Temple in Jerusalem by her parents, St. Joachim and St. Anne. (We celebrate their feast day on July 26.) Mary's whole life was to belong to God. He had chosen her to be the Mother of his Son, Jesus. The Blessed Virgin was happy to begin serving God in the Temple. And St. Joachim and St. Anne were pleased to offer their saintly little girl to God. They knew that God had sent her to them.

In the Temple, the high priest received the child Mary. She was placed among the girls who were dedicated to prayer and Temple service. The high priest kissed and blessed the holy child. He realized that the Lord had great plans for her. Mary did not weep or turn back to her parents. She came so happily to the altar that everyone in the Temple loved her at once.

St. Joachim and St. Anne went back home. They praised God for their blessed daughter. And Mary remained in the Temple, where she grew in holiness. She spent her days reading the Bible, praying and serving the Temple priests. She made beautiful linens and splendid vestments. Mary was loved by all the other girls because she was so kind. Mary tried to do each of her duties well, to please God. She grew in grace and gave great glory to the Lord.

Heavenly Father, the Blessed Virgin Mary was dedicated to You by her parents when she was three. In the temple, she joined the girls who spent their days praying, reading Scripture, and serving the temple priests. Her holiness was very evident, and the high priest thought that You probably had great plans for her. I ask Mary to pray for the plans You have for my life. Where I have strayed onto a road of my own choosing, give me her hand to guide me back to where You want me. Where I need to wait for a new plan to begin, give me the grace remain patient and say, "Your will be done." Blessed Virgin Mary, pray for me. Amen

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The cult to Our Lady was born in the East; from there also we received the feast of the Presentation of Our Lady, where it was celebrated from the end of the seventh century. In the West, Pope Gregory XI adopted the feast day in 1372 at the pontifical court of Avignon. The path to 200 houses of the Lord: Nos. 41-60 With the church of jesus christ of latter-day saints to dedicate its 200th operating temple later this year, here’s a weekly look — 20 at a time — at the houses of the lord worldwide. By Scott Taylor , Joel Randall Editor’s note: The Church News is highlighting the first 200 operating houses of the Lord of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with a weekly compilation of 20 temples in chronological order over a 10-week period. In June 1997 , during a three-and-a-half-hour car trip to the El Paso International Airport in Texas, President Gordon B. Hinckley considered the sacrifices of members in northern Mexico. He was returning from a centennial observance for Church-owned Juarez Academy in Colonia Juárez, Mexico, with the closest temple being an eight-hour drive to Mesa, Arizona . “As we were riding to El Paso, I reflected on what we could do to help these people in the Church colonies of Mexico,” said the 15th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He added, “They’ve been the very epitome of faithfulness.” The Prophet put these ideas onto paper during the subsequent plane ride, sketching a floor plan with only the essentials of a house of the Lord. The laundry facility, the cafeteria and other areas of the temple not necessary for temple ordinances were omitted from the plan, allowing the option for temples to be smaller with faster construction. The first three announced, built and dedicated were the Monticello Utah , Anchorage Alaska and Colonia Juárez Chihuahua Mexico temples. They were among the 20 houses of the Lord — the Church’s Nos. 41 through 60 dedicated and operating temples — dedicated in a 12-year span from August 1987 to September 1999. The 20 include the tail end of the 26 temples dedicated in the 1980s and the start of President Hinckley’s push for 100 temples by the end of the 20th century (the end of 2000). Among the 20 were four temples in Utah, eight in as many states in the United States and another eight temples in as many other countries across four continents. By the end of 2024, the total operating temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will go from the first 20 temples dedicated between 1877 and 1981 to more than 200 — with Nos. 181 to 200 being dedicated in a span of just 14 months. With The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to dedicate its 200th operating temple later this year, here’s the third of a weekly look — 20 at a time — at the houses of the Lord worldwide. 41. Frankfurt Germany Dedicated: Aug. 28, 1987, by President Ezra Taft Benson , Church president. Notable: The second house of the Lord in the Federal Republic of Germany after the 1990 unification of Germany brought in the Freiberg Germany Temple , dedicated in 1985. Announced: April 1, 1981, by President Spencer W. Kimball , Church president. Groundbreaking: July 1, 1985, presided over by President Gordon B. Hinckley , second counselor in the First Presidency. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “Thy restored word was first taught in this nation 146 years ago. Since then, tens of thousands of missionaries, at untold sacrifice, have borne testimony to the people of Europe. Hundreds of thousands have responded to their message. How grateful we are to be counted among that number. This city, where stands this holy house, has for centuries shown tolerance for those seeking freedom to worship according to the dictates of conscience. We thank Thee for the hospitality of those of this community who have welcomed Thy people and Thy temple.” Rededicated: Oct. 20, 2019, by Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Three more notes: During a VIP dinner with Church leaders before the temple open house, Friedrichsdorf Mayor Gerd Schmidt said the Latter-day Saints reminded him of the Huguenots, a group that came to Friedrichsdorf 300 years earlier seeking religious freedom. He said that the community’s willingness to accept the temple “is a modern version of religious tolerance that should prevail among mankind.” … Elder Uchtdorf, who rededicated the Frankfurt Germany Temple, also chaired the committee that organized the temple’s original open house and dedication in 1984, when he was the Frankfurt Germany Stake president. … Four presidents or eventual presidents of the Church participated in the events of the Frankfurt Germany Temple — President Kimball announced the temple, President Hinckley presided over the groundbreaking ceremony, and Presidents Benson and Thomas S. Monson , then a First Presidency counselor, presided over the dedicatory sessions of the temple. Additional reading from the Church News archives: Frankfurt Germany Temple | Church News Almanac Frankfurt Germany Temple dedicatory prayer: ‘An answer to the prayers of Thy people’ Why Elder Uchtdorf says the rededicated Frankfurt Germany Temple is ‘a symbol of unity’ 42. Portland Oregon Dedicated: Aug. 19, 1989, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , first counselor in the First Presidency, with President Ezra Taft Benson , Church president, attending the first three sessions and offering remarks. Notable: The first house of the Lord in Oregon. … The temple grounds were originally purchased with plans to use the property as a Church junior college. Announced: April 7, 1984, by President Hinckley, then second counselor in the First Presidency, under the direction of President Spencer W. Kimball , Church president. Groundbreaking: Sept. 20, 1986, done by President Hinckley, with President Benson attending and presiding. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “Bless all who shall preside and serve in this house, now and in the years to come. Give them strength according to their need. Give them faith to accomplish Thy work. Give them that love which is the essence of the gospel of Christ.” Three more notes: A total of 314,232 people — the fifth highest in Church history to that point — toured the Portland Oregon Temple during its 22-day open house . Some 21,000 people visited on the final day, Saturday, July 8. … To help announce the temple open house, 80 radio spots and 60 television spots were played by area stations. Also, approximately 900,000 introductory inserts were distributed to raise awareness. … A visitors’ center, built adjacent to the Portland temple, opened to the public on Feb. 25, 2012, to help visitors understand more about the house of the Lord and the Church of Jesus Christ. Portland Oregon Temple | Church News Almanac Portland Oregon Temple dedicatory prayer: Temple is ‘gift of a thankful people’ Portland Oregon Temple: Bishop Stevenson dedicates visitors’ center 43. Las Vegas Nevada Dedicated: Dec. 16, 1989, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , first counselor in the First Presidency. Notable: The first house of the Lord in Nevada. … Church President Ezra Taft Benson attended and presided at the dedication, and all members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles attended the dedication. Groundbreaking: Nov. 30, 1985, by President Hinckley. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “O Father, look with favor upon Thy sons and daughters wherever they may be. When they err, and come unto Thee in repentance, wilt Thou forgive and remember their sins no more. Give them grateful hearts for the blessings which Thou hast showered upon them. Grant unto them strength to walk the straight and narrow way that leads to life eternal.” Three more notes: Las Vegas was one of five locations for new temples announced on April 7, 1984, along with Bogotá, Colombia ; Portland, Oregon ; San Diego, California ; and Toronto, Ontario . … Latter-day Saints in the Las Vegas temple district were asked to contribute to the funding of the temple; the members not only met the requested contribution but donated 428% of the request, for a contribution of $11 million. … During the four-week open house prior to the temple’s dedication, a total of 297,480 people attended , shattering expectations of having around 200,000 people attend. Las Vegas Nevada Temple | Church News Almanac Las Vegas Nevada Temple: Temple is ‘oasis of peace, life, light’ 44. Toronto Ontario Dedicated: Aug. 25, 1990, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , first counselor in the First Presidency. Notable: The second house of the Lord in Canada. … Currently closed for renovations, the Toronto temple will reopen in December 2024, with no rededication needed. Groundbreaking: Oct. 10, 1987, presided over by President Thomas S. Monson , second counselor in the First Presidency. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “In this, Thy house will be administered those ordinances which are eternal, even as Thou, our God, art eternal. These ordinances bear witness of the immortality of the human soul. Through them we are made certain that life continues beyond the veil of death. Within this sacred house a great and marvelous work of vicarious service will be performed in behalf of the dead.” Three more notes: Because of multiple nationalities of members in the temple district, the Toronto temple’s dedicatory sessions were translated into six languages — French, Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, Cantonese and Korean. … Some general authorities in attendance had served as mission presidents in Canada: President Monson in Toronto from 1959 to 1962; Elder Boyd K. Packer of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the New England Mission, which included the Maritime provinces of Canada, from 1965 to 1968; and Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in Toronto from 1974 to 1976. … A month and a half after its dedication, the Toronto temple was honored with an award of excellence from the Development Design Awards program, conducted every two years. Toronto Ontario Temple | Church News Almanac Toronto Ontario Temple: ‘Sacred day of dedication’ in Canada Temple in Canada to close this fall for renovations 45. San Diego California Dedicated: April 25, 1993, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , first counselor in the First Presidency. Notable: The third house of the Lord in California. … The San Diego temple has been closed since late July 2023 while undergoing extensive renovations. Groundbreaking: Feb. 27, 1988, presided over by Church President Ezra Taft Benson , with President Thomas S. Monson , second counselor in the First Presidency, dedicating the site. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “May Thy watchcare be over this, Thy holy house. Preserve it from storm and tempest, from the tremblings of the earth, and most importantly from any defiling hand of man. To the millions who will see it as they move swiftly over the adjacent highway, may it be a thing of singular beauty from which shall emanate a spiritual glow that speaks of peace and goodness.” Three more notes: The Church received honors for its pre-dedication public open house, which drew some 720,000 visitors, and the house of the Lord was named Headliner of the Year for 1993, in the landmark category, by the San Diego Press Club. … The San Diego temple is highly visible for motorists traveling on Southern California’s Interstate 5, with the temple sitting on a 7.2-acre site in northern San Diego near the upscale suburb of La Jolla. … The temple — which reaches 169 feet in height and 72,000 square feet in size — features twin central spires surrounded by four smaller ones. San Diego California Temple | Church News Almanac San Diego California Temple dedicatory prayer: ‘May we bask in … Thy divine favor’ San Diego California Temple now closed for extensive renovations 46. Orlando Florida Dedicated: Oct. 9, 1994, by President Howard W. Hunter , Church president. Notable: The first house of the Lord in Florida. … The Orlando temple has been closed since July 2024 for extensive renovations. Announced: Feb. 17, 1990, by the First Presidency — then consisting of Presidents Ezra Taft Benson , Gordon B. Hinckley and Thomas S. Monson . Groundbreaking: June 20, 1992, presided over by Elder James E. Faust of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “We pray that Thy watchcare will be over this, Thy sacred house. Preserve it by Thy strong arm from storm and tempest, and above all from the defiling hand of man. To all who look upon it, including those who reside in this area, may it ever present a picture of peace and beauty, a structure partaking of Thy divine nature.” Three more notes: When the Orlando temple was dedicated, the temple district covered 23 stakes in Florida, seven stakes in the Caribbean and one stake in Georgia. … It was the first temple dedicated by a Church president since President Ezra Taft Benson dedicated the Frankfurt Germany Temple in 1987 — a difference of over seven years. … In announcing the first house of the Lord in Florida , the First Presidency said, “We have selected Orlando because it is a central location with good highways from all parts of the state.” Orlando Florida Temple | Church News Almanac Orlando Florida Temple dedicatory prayer: ‘We thank thee for this beautiful structure’ First Presidency announces renovation closure for Orlando Florida Temple 47. Bountiful Utah Dedicated: Jan. 8, 1995, by President Howard W. Hunter , Church president. Notable: The eighth house of the Lord dedicated in Utah. … The second of the two temples dedicated by President Hunter during his nine-month tenure as Church president. Announced: Feb. 2, 1990, the First Presidency — President Ezra Taft Benson and his counselors, President Gordon B. Hinckley and President Thomas S. Monson — sent a letter to regional representatives and stake presidents in Davis County to announce a temple for Bountiful, Utah. The letter was then read in local stake conferences and at other meetings on Feb. 18. Groundbreaking: May 2, 1992, presided over by President Benson. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “We humbly pray that Thou wilt accept this edifice and let Thy blessings be upon it. Let Thy Spirit attend and guide all who officiate herein, that holiness will prevail in every room. May all who enter have clean hands and pure hearts. May they be built up in their faith and depart with a feeling of peace, praising Thy holy name.” Three more notes: About 7,500 attended the groundbreaking in person, with many watching from a nearby hillside. When President Hinckley saw them, he said, “We don’t anticipate those on the mountain can hear us.” The group then started waving, and President Hinckley said, “I guess they can — it is as it was in the days of King Benjamin.” … A total of 870,361 visitors toured the Bountiful temple during its open house (Nov. 5 to Dec. 17, 1994), including some from as far away as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Russia. … During the 28 dedicatory sessions held over seven days, 49 general authorities spoke in at least one dedicatory session, including all members in the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Presiding Bishopric. A total of 201,655 Latter-day Saints participated in the dedication of this house of the Lord. Bountiful Utah Temple | Church News Almanac Bountiful Utah Temple: ‘Magnificent edifice’ consecrated to the Lord 48. Hong Kong Dedicated: May 26, 1996, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The first temple dedicated by President Hinckley as president of the Church. … After extensive renovations that started in July 2019, the Hong Kong Temple was rededicated on June 19, 2022, by Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Announced: Oct. 3, 1992, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , first counselor in the First Presidency, on Oct. 3, 1992, during October 1992 general conference. Groundbreaking: Jan. 22, 1994, presided over by Elder John K. Carmack , a General Authority Seventy and Asia Area president. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “May it be a sanctuary of peace amid the rush and roar of this great city. May those who enter to serve here leave the world behind and reflect on the things of eternity.” Rededicated: June 19, 2022, by Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Three more notes: In July 1992, President Gordon B. Hinckley and others spent a day touring a half-dozen possible sites for a temple, but every location was too small and overpriced. That night, President Hinckley awoke with an inspired idea to demolish the Hong Kong mission home and office and a nearby chapel to construct a multipurpose building. He then drew rough sketches for a building with a temple on the upper floors and other functions on lower floors. … The multipurpose design of this house of the Lord was later used in the Manhattan New York Temple , dedicated eight years later. … The Hong Kong Temple — located in the Kowloon Tong suburb on the Kowloon Peninsula — was opened a little more than a year before Hong Kong’s sovereignty transfer from British rule to China in 1997. Hong Kong Temple | Church News Almanac Hong Kong Temple dedicatory prayer, additional information Hong Kong Temple — a sacred place of hope, faith and family — to reopen 49. Mount Timpanogos Utah Dedicated: Oct. 13, 1996, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The ninth house of the Lord dedicated in Utah. … The temple’s 27 temple dedicatory sessions were spread over a week. Announced: Oct. 3, 1992, by President Hinckley, first counselor in the First Presidency, during October 1992 general conference. Groundbreaking: Oct. 9, 1993, presided over by President Hinckley. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “May its beauty never be marred by evil hands. May it stand strong against the winds and storms that will beat upon it. May it be a beacon of peace and a refuge to the troubled. May it be an holy sanctuary to those whose burdens are heavy and who seek Thy consoling comfort.” Three more notes: Over 800 children’s choirs from the new temple’s district sang near the front entrance to the temple at least once during the open house. … In a six-day period, 27 dedicatory sessions were held, a total of 11,617 people participated in the first dedicatory session, and around 38,000 attended the first three sessions on the temple’s first dedication day. Only 2,900 were able to meet inside the house of the Lord for the dedication, so the rest met in meetinghouses around American Fork, Utah. … At the Mount Timpanogos temple’s groundbreaking, President Hinckley — noting that of the Church’s then 45 operating temples, more than half had been constructed in the previous 12 years — called the groundbreaking an important step within “the greatest era in the history of the world in the building of temples.” Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple | Church News Almanac Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple dedicatory prayer, additional info 50. St. Louis Missouri Dedicated: June 1, 1997, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The first house of the Lord dedicated in Missouri. … Temple sites in Independence, Missouri, and Far West, Missouri, had been dedicated by Joseph Smith in the 1830s. Announced: Dec. 29, 1990, by the First Presidency — Presidents Ezra Taft Benson , Gordon B. Hinckley and Thomas S. Monson — in a letter to local Church leaders in the midwestern United States. Groundbreaking: Oct. 30, 1993, presided over by President Hinckley. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “We are reminded that this temple stands on the soil of the state of Missouri, where the Prophet and his associates suffered so much and were finally banished by a cruel and illegal order of extermination. Terrible were their losses, terrible their suffering. We are grateful that the extermination order has been revoked and the persecution is long since gone. Today Thy Church basks in the sunlight of goodwill. Hundreds of thousands of visitors have come to view this, Thy holy house. They have left with respect and appreciation.” Three more notes: On March 20, 1839, the Prophet Joseph Smith wrote a letter to the Church saying, “As well might man stretch forth his puny arm to stop the Missouri river in its decreed course, or to turn it up stream, as to hinder the Almighty from pouring down knowledge from heaven upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints” ( Doctrine and Covenants 121:33 ). The St. Louis Missouri Temple — located in the city just south of where the Missouri and Mississippi rivers meet — is considered a symbol of the fulfillment of Joseph Smith’s prophecy. … In 1844, after and during much of the persecution members of the Church faced in Missouri, some fled to St. Louis, where they found tolerance and compassion from the residents of the city. St. Louis was considered a “city of refuge” for early Saints already living in Missouri and for those coming from across seas. After Joseph Smith’s martyrdom, St. Louis condemned the murder. … Approximately 260,000 people visited the temple during its open house from April 26 to May 24, 1997. St. Louis Missouri Temple | Church News Almanac St. Louis Missouri Temple dedicatory prayer, additional info 51. Vernal Utah Dedicated: Nov. 2, 1997, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The 10th house of the Lord in Utah. … The Vernal temple was built from the existing Uintah Tabernacle, finished 90 years earlier. Announced: On Feb. 13, 1994, the First Presidency — Presidents Ezra Taft Benson , Gordon B. Hinckley and Thomas S. Monson . Groundbreaking: May 13, 1995, presided over by President Hinckley. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “We are grateful for this beautiful new structure which utilizes the historic tabernacle built by Thy people nearly a century ago. The original tabernacle came of a great spirit of faith and sacrifice on the part of those Saints who settled in this area. It was built as an offering unto Thee, and was held in the affections of the people long after it was used as a house of worship.” Three more notes: When President Joseph F. Smith — sixth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — dedicated the Uintah Tabernacle in August 1907, he said he “would not be surprised if a temple were built here someday.” Almost 100 years later, the tabernacle was converted into a temple and marked the fulfillment of that prophecy. … A century-old home, donated by a local non-Latter-day Saint, was made of bricks similar in color to those on the temple and were used to replace some 1,500 bricks on the outer wall that had fallen into disrepair as well as construct the west gates of the grounds. … The entire interior of the Uintah Tabernacle was removed in order to make room for temple characteristics and features. The existing structure was so small that architects had to create an addition to the east side of the tabernacle in order to fit all the areas needed to perform ordinances and make covenants. Vernal Utah Temple | Church News Almanac Vernal Utah Temple dedicatory prayer: ’We thank Thee for this sacred structure’ 52. Preston England Dedicated: June 7, 1998, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The second house of the Lord in both England and the United Kingdom. … The temple is located in Chorley, just a few miles south of Preston, where missionary work for the Church in the British Isles began in 1837. Announced: Oct. 19, 1992, by President Hinckley, then first counselor in the First Presidency, during the rededication of the London England Temple . Groundbreaking: June 12, 1994, presided over by President Hinckley. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “This magnificent temple has been reared in this beautiful area where Thy chosen servants, in the days of their deep poverty and great sacrifice, first preached the restored gospel. Through 161 years of history this land of England, together with Scotland, Wales and Ireland, has yielded a harvest of converts who have blessed and strengthened Thy Church. … We pray that Thou wilt accept [this temple] as the sacred offering of Thy thankful people. This is Thy house, and we ask that Thou wilt sanctify it with Thy presence. From this day forth, may Thy Holy Spirit dwell within these walls and touch the hearts of all who enter herein.” Three more notes: President Hinckley — who announced the new temple, presided at the groundbreaking and then dedicated the house of the Lord — had served in Preston and the area of Lancashire 65 years before the dedication. … An open house was held from May 16 to May 30, 1998. Before the start of the tours, the Church had set up a hotline for people to call and reserve tickets. Prior to May 19, around 102,000 people had called to book a tour. … At the time of its dedication, the Preston temple served Latter-day Saints in Northern England, Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland. Preston England Temple | Church News Almanac Preston England Temple dedicatory prayer: ’Thou hast smiled … upon England’ 53. Monticello Utah Dedicated: July 26, 1998, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The 11th dedicated house of the Lord in Utah. … This was the first Utah temple rededicated in the 21st century. Announced: Oct. 4, 1997, by President Hinckley, during October 1997 general conference. Groundbreaking: Nov. 17, 1997, presided over by Elder Ben B. Banks , a General Authority Seventy and president of the Utah South Area. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “A great work in behalf of the dead has been carried forward. Vicarious baptisms have been performed in behalf of many thousands. Initiatory ordinances have been enacted. The endowment has been given. Covenants with Thee have been made. And again, in behalf of those beyond the veil of death, families have been bound together for all eternity. What a glorious work has been accomplished in this, Thy house.” Rededicated: Nov. 17, 2002, by President Hinckley. Three more notes: President Hinckley announced a house of the Lord for Monticello during October 1997 general conference , part of an announcement that the Church would build some smaller temples in remote areas of the Church, the first ones being in Monticello; Anchorage, Alaska ; and northern Mexico (the Colonia Juárez Chihuahua Mexico Temple ). The first was built in Utah so Church leaders could supervise its construction. … The temple’s groundbreaking was held just a month after its announcement. The Monticello temple was constructed faster than any other temple before it had been built, taking just over eight months from groundbreaking to dedication. … Four years after its dedication, the house of the Lord was rededicated by President Hinckley after remodeling expanded the building from approximately 7,000 square feet to 11,225. Monticello Utah Temple | Church News Almanac Monticello Utah Temple dedicatory prayer: ‘The virtue and value of these smaller temples have been demonstrated’ 54. Anchorage Alaska Dedicated: Jan. 9, 1999, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The first house of the Lord dedicated in Alaska. … Beginning earlier this year, the temple is being reconstructed and relocated to where the adjacent meetinghouse sits. Completion is expected in summer 2026. Groundbreaking: April 17, 1998, by Elder F. Melvin Hammond , a General Authority Seventy. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “We are grateful for the inspiration which has come to build it, and pray that Thy faithful people in this part of Thy vineyard may treasure it and use it for the purposes for which it is designed. Increase their faith, deepen their understanding of things divine, acquaint them with Thy holy and everlasting purposes. Bless them as they walk in righteousness before Thee, contributing their tithes and offerings, working with faith to build Thy cause and kingdom. Open the windows of heaven and shower down blessings upon them.” Rededicated: Feb. 8, 2004, by President Hinckley. Three more notes: The original layout of this temple was one of the first that featured a smaller square footage, based on a plan announced by Church President Gordon B. Hinckley in 1997. … Nearly 15,000 people attended the two-and-a-half-day original open house of the Anchorage temple from Dec. 29 to Dec. 31, 1998. … The temple was rededicated by President Hinckley in 2004 after the building was enlarged from 6,800 square feet to 11,937. Anchorage Alaska Temple | Church News Almanac Anchorage Alaska Temple dedicatory prayer: A sacred house to carry forward the work 55. Colonia Juárez Chihuahua Mexico Dedicated: March 6, 1999, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The second house of the Lord in Mexico. … President Hinckley came up with a floor plan for smaller temples after visiting Colonia Juárez, which was an eight-hour drive from the closest temple. Groundbreaking: March 7, 1998, presided over by Elder Joe J. Christensen of the Presidency of the Seventy, with the site dedicated by Elder Eran A. Call , a General Authority Seventy and president of the Mexico North Area. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “It was here in Northern Mexico that Thou didst reveal the idea and the plan of a smaller temple, complete in every necessary detail, but suited in size to the needs and circumstances of the Church membership in this area of Thy vineyard. That revelation came of a desire and a prayer to help Thy people of these colonies who have been true and loyal during the century and more that they have lived here. They are deserving of this sacred edifice in which to labor for themselves and their forebears.” Three more notes: The first day of its public open house — Feb. 25, 1999 — was the day the Tuxtla Gutiérrez Mexico Temple was announced . … Because the colonies were experiencing a drought, President Hinckley added a petition for rain in his dedicatory prayer , saying, “Cause rain to fall upon their thirsty fields.” Before the last bus left after the final dedicatory session on March 7, 1999, rain drops began to fall . … When this house of the Lord was dedicated, Colonia Juárez had a population of around only 1,000 people. Colonia Juárez Chihuahua Mexico Temple | Church News Almanac Colonia Juaréz Chihuahua Temple dedicatory prayer: ‘This is a day long looked forward to’ 56. Madrid Spain Dedicated: March 19, 1999, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The first house of the Lord in Spain and on the Iberian Peninsula. … At the time of its dedication, the temple served Latter-day Saints in Spain, Portugal, France and the Canary Islands. Announced: April 4, 1993, by President Hinckley, then first counselor in the First Presidency, during April 1993 general conference. Groundbreaking: June 11, 1996, by President Hinckley. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “We have erected in this Christian nation this house of the Lord. Now, acting in the authority of the priesthood which comes from Thee, we dedicate and consecrate the Madrid Spain Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We present it to Thee and to Thy divine Son. Please accept our offering given with love by Thy thankful sons and daughters. We honor and reverence it as Thine abode. May Thy Holy Spirit dwell here at all times and in all seasons.” Three more notes: During April 1993 general conference , President Hinckley announced a temple site was being acquired in Spain. The site was announced to be in Madrid on Oct. 9, 1993, at the groundbreaking of the Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple . … When President Hinckley visited Spain for the Madrid temple’s groundbreaking ceremony , he became the first Church president to visit the country. … The temple grounds have been referred to as the “Temple Square of Madrid.” Madrid Spain Temple | Church News Almanac Madrid Spain Temple: ‘Our hearts are filled with gratitude’ 57. Bogotá Colombia Dedicated: April 24, 1999, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The first house of the Lord in Colombia. … Some 330 members were scheduled to be endowed within the temple’s first two days of operation. Announced: April 7, 1984, by President Hinckley, then second counselor in the First Presidency, during April 1984 general conference and under the direction of Church President Spencer W. Kimball . Groundbreaking: June 26, 1993, presided over by Elder William R. Bradford , a General Authority Seventy and president of the South America North Area. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “The faithful Saints of Colombia have given generously of their means to this cause. Bless them, dear Father, for their faith. Open the windows of heaven and shower down blessings upon them, and bless their posterity after them, that they may continue in faithfulness.” Three more notes: Some 6,180 people, including construction workers, architects, contractors and neighbors, toured the temple the first day. The following two days, ambassadors, elected officials, clerics, educators, businessmen and representatives of the media toured the temple. … A total of 127,107 visitors toured the temple during its three-week open house, and approximately 10,000 missionary referrals were received. … After dedicating the Bogotá temple in the first session and then leaving for a regional conference in Chile, President Hinckley returned to preside at the final four sessions on the third and last day. He was accompanied by Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who said: “It was a privilege to participate in the dedicatory services of the Bogota Colombia Temple, to speak with the people who were lined up to enter the temple on Tuesday morning after the temple was dedicated. They were lined up waiting for the doors of the temple to be open. That was a thrill. They were lined up by the hundreds to enter that dedicated temple to receive their endowments, great joy in their faces, tears in many of their eyes.” Bogotá Colombia Temple | Church News Almanac Bogota Colombia Temple dedicatory prayer: ‘Thy people will enter into covenants with Thee’ 58. Guayaquil Ecuador Dedicated: Aug. 1, 1999, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The first house of the Lord in Ecuador. … A temple for Guayaquil had been announced 17 years earlier. Announced: March 31, 1982, by President Hinckley, then a counselor in the First Presidency, making the announcement in a news conference under the direction of Church President Spencer W. Kimball . Groundbreaking: Aug. 10, 1996, presided over by Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “We pray that Thy Saints may gather here to carry forward the work of receiving their own ordinances and offering these ordinances to those beyond the veil of death, that Thine eternal purposes may be accomplished. … Prosper Thy work in this land. May the gospel message touch the hearts of people throughout the nation. May they come into the waters of baptism and remain faithful and true unto Thee.” Three more notes: Ground was broken for the house of the Lord in Guayaquil on Ecuador’s independence day. … Although in-person attendance to the groundbreaking ceremony was limited, some 10,446 people listened to the proceedings via local radio in the nearby Guayaquil Coliseum. … Those attending the dedication included members of a stake who had volunteered to clean the temple starting at 5 a.m. The members had to walk 6 miles during the night in order to be at the house of the Lord at the designated time. Guayaquil Ecuador Temple | Church News Almanac Guayaquil Ecuador Temple dedicatory prayer: ‘Thou hast given every blessing of the restored gospel’ 59. Spokane Washington Dedicated: Aug. 21, 1999, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: The second house of the Lord in Washington. … The temple site was originally a Church-owned softball field adjacent to a stake center. Announced: Aug. 13, 1998, by the First Presidency — President Hinckley and his counselors, President Thomas S. Monson and President James E. Faust . Groundbreaking: Oct. 10, 1998, presided over by Elder F. Melvin Hammond , a General Authority Seventy and president of the North America Northwest Area. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “Touch the hearts of the people in this temple district, that the spirit of Elijah may rest upon them. … May they experience the joy of totally unselfish service as they so labor, emulating the great vicarious sacrifice of our Redeemer.” Three more notes: The groundbreaking of the Spokane temple was held the same day as the groundbreaking of the Detroit Michigan Temple — the first time in Church history that two groundbreakings for a house of the Lord in two different cities were held in one 12-hour period. … For the July 4, 1999, holiday weekend, the month before the Spokane temple’s dedication, members helped landscape the grounds of the new house of the Lord. Children used toy wheelbarrows to move unwanted rocks. … Some 12,000 gathered in a hockey arena in downtown Spokane the evening of Sunday, Aug. 22, 1999, between Sunday and Monday dedicatory sessions for the temple to hear counsel from President Hinckley. Spokane Washington Temple | Church News Almanac Spokane Washington Temple dedicatory prayer, additional info 60. Columbus Ohio Dedicated: Sept. 4, 1999, by President Gordon B. Hinckley , Church president. Notable: Ohio’s first house of the Lord that is still in operation, following the Kirtland Temple , dedicated in 1836, left by the Church following westward movements over the decade; the Church resumed stewardship of the Kirtland Temple earlier this year. … President M. Russell Ballard , acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, rededicated the temple in 2023. Announced: April 25, 1998, by President Hinckley, when he spoke at a member meeting in Columbus. Groundbreaking: Sept. 12, 1998, presided over by Elder John K. Carmack , a General Authority Seventy and president of the North America East Area. Dedicatory prayer excerpt: “May it be looked upon as the house of the Lord, with holiness to the Lord from all who shall see it and all who shall enter its portals. May it shed forth a beneficent influence upon this community and state. … Wilt Thou watch over this, Thy house, that no unhallowed hand may injure it in any way. Stay the hand of any of evil intent who would deface it or vandalize it. May all who look upon it do so with respect.” Rededicated: June 4, 2023, by President M. Russell Ballard , acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Three more notes: The temple site’s land once had ownership ties to Julia Clapp Murdock , a devoted member of the Church during Joseph Smith’s time. … “Much has changed in the 163 years since the Kirtland Temple was dedicated,” said President Hinckley at the Columbus temple dedication . “Our people are more accepted now. It is a new day of opportunity. The struggles of Kirtland are past. Today, we have large congregations.” … In his prayer rededicating the Columbus temple, President Ballard quoted part of the Kirtland Temple ’s dedicatory prayer, given by Joseph Smith on March 27, 1836. Referencing Doctrine and Covenants 109:16, 21-23 , President Ballard prayed that Latter-day Saints “‘may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them.’” Columbus Ohio Temple | Church News Almanac Columbus Ohio Temple dedicatory prayer, additional info To be ‘endowed with power’: President Ballard rededicates Columbus Ohio Temple Read weekly compilations about the 200 Temples 1-20: St. George Utah to Jordan River Utah temples Temples 21-40: Atlanta Georgia to Denver Colorado temples 385 COMMENTS Presentation of Mary Presentation of Mary. The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, known in the East as The Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple, is a liturgical feast celebrated on November 21 [1] by the Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and some Anglo-Catholic Churches. The feast is associated with an event recounted not in the New Testament, but in ... The Presentation of Our Lady: A Feast of Preparation Unknowingly, Our Lady began to prepare herself to become the Mother of Our Lord Jesus Christ. In an atmosphere of graces at the Temple, she was set apart from everyone in order to serve God. She increased her love of God until she formed the ardent desire. The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin. Mary in the Temple at Jerusalem. The Feast of the Presentation According to the Church's liturgical calendar, the feast held on Feb. 2 each year is in honor of the Presentation of the Lord. Some Catholics recall this day as the feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary because such was the feast day named until the 1969 changes in the Church's calendar. In fact, according to Luke's Gospel ... The Presentation of Mary in the Temple It is held by tradition in the Catholic Church that the Virgin Mary was presented by her parents, St. Joachim and St. Anne, to the Temple in Jerusalem at a very early age. This entrance into the Temple, as well as any information we have concerning Mary's parents, is mentioned in most Greek menologies (Church calendars) and in apocryphal (non ... Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary The Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, celebrated annually on November 21st, commemorates the presentation of the Blessed Virgin as a child by her parents in the Temple in ... The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Because she was the first to say yes to the Messiah, the Church has declared her to be the Mother of the Church. The feast of the presentation of Mary dates back to the 6th century in the East and the 15th century in the West. It is based on an ancient tradition that says Mary was taken to the temple in Jerusalem when she was 3-years-old and ... Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary The Story of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mary's presentation was celebrated in Jerusalem in the sixth century. A church was built there in honor of this mystery. The Eastern Church was more interested in the feast, but it does appear in the West in the 11th century. Although the feast at times disappeared from the calendar ... Presentation of the Lord The Catechism of the Catholic Church (paragraph 529) teaches, The presentation of Jesus in the temple shows him to be the firstborn Son who belongs to the Lord. With Simeon and Anna, all Israel awaits its encounter with the Savior-the name given to this event in the Byzantine tradition. Jesus is recognized as the long-expected Messiah, the ... Life of Mary (III): Presentation of Our Lady On 21 November, we celebrate the Presentation of Our Lady. According to Christian tradition, Joachim and Anne, the parents of Mary, offered their daughter to God in the Temple at Jerusalem when she was a young girl. The years of Mary's childhood were quiet, as befits her humility. Holy Scripture tells us nothing about them. Reflections for the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord Introduction: This feast commemorates how Jesus, as a baby, was presented to God in the Temple in Jerusalem.This presentation finds its complete and perfect fulfillment in the mystery of the passion, death and Resurrection of the Lord. The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord is a combined feast, commemorating the Jewish practice of the purification of the mother after childbirth and the ... Feast of the Presentation of Mary 12261. The celebration of Mary's presentation in Jerusalem dates back to the sixth century, marked by the construction of a dedicated church. This event held greater significance within the Eastern Church and later emerged in the Western Church in the 11th century. Although its observance fluctuated over time, by the 16th century, it was ... Life of Mary: Presentation of our Lady Everything in our Lady's life was wholly oriented towards Jesus' Most Holy Humanity, the true Temple of God. The feast of Mary's Presentation teaches us that our Lady belonged only to God, that she was completely dedicated, in soul and body, to the mystery of salvation, which is the mystery of our Creator drawing near to his creatures. Presentation of Jesus The Presentation of Jesus is an early episode in the life of Jesus Christ, describing his presentation at the Temple in Jerusalem.It is celebrated by many churches 40 days after Christmas on Candlemas, or the "Feast of the Presentation of Jesus".The episode is described in chapter 2 of the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament. [1] Within the account, "Luke's narration of the Presentation in the ... Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord The Presentation of Our Lord is the feast of Christ "light of the people" and of the encounter ("Ypapanti") of the Messiah with his people in the Temple at Jerusalem. The gesture of obedience to the law and offering, performed by Mary and Joseph who bring the child Jesus to offer him in the Temple, inspires the presence at this celebration of ... Luke 2:22-38 NABRE Footnotes. 2:22-40 The presentation of Jesus in the temple depicts the parents of Jesus as devout Jews, faithful observers of the law of the Lord (Lk 2:23-24, 39), i.e., the law of Moses.In this respect, they are described in a fashion similar to the parents of John and Simeon and Anna (Lk 2:36-37).2:22 Their purification: syntactically, their must refer to Mary and Joseph, even though ... The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary The Presentation is one of the minor solemnities of our Lady, and was inscribed at a comparatively late date on the sacred cycle; it seems to court the homage of our silent contemplation.The world, unknown to itself, is ruled by the secret prayers of the just; and the Queen of saints, in her hidden mysteries, wrought far more powerfully than the so-called great men, whose noisy achievements ... Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary In The Temple A prayer to Our Lady to celebrate the Feast of her Presentation in the Temple, by St Alphonsus Liguori from 'the Glories of Mary': Oh holy Lady know that already through thy prayers the Son of God is hastening to come and redeem the world, and know that thou art the blessed one chosen to be the Mother of God, most holy Child, thou prayest ... The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple Feast November 21. On the feast of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, we celebrate the fact that Our Lady's parents brought her to the Temple at the age of three and handed her over to live there for a long period as a consecrated virgin where she might exclusively contemplate God. There is a special beauty to this feast since it highlights ... Feast of the Presentation of the Lord » Enjoy our Liturgical Seasons series of e-books! Today the Church celebrates the feast of the Presentation of the Lord which occurs forty days after the birth of Jesus and is also known as ... Purification of Our Lady Purification of Our Lady. February 2. Besides commemorating the presentation of Christ in the Temple, this day has another meaning, for it is called Candlemass Day. The candle is one of the most widely used sacramentals in the Church; one blessed in a special Mass. We use candles at Baptism, at Mass and other church services, at the ordination ... Prayer For The Presentation Of The Blessed Virgin Mary Prayer For The Presentation Of The Blessed Virgin Mary. Troparion of the Vigil Today Anne brings us glad tidings, bearing in her arms the precious fruit that dispels all sorrow, the one being ever-precious fruit that dispels all sorrow, the one being ever-virginal. In fulfillment of her vow, she joyfully presents on this day in the Lord's temple the true tabernacle of the Word of God, His ... Luke 2:22-35 NET Jesus' Presentation at the Temple - Now when the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, Joseph and Mary brought Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (just as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male will be set apart to the Lord"), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is specified in the law of the Lord, a pair of doves or two ... The Presentation of Our Lady at the Temple November 21 The Presentation of Our Lady at the Temple November 21. Prof. Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira. Biographical selection: The cult to Our Lady was born in the East; from there also we received the feast of the Presentation of Our Lady, where it was celebrated from the end of the seventh century. In the West, Pope Gregory XI adopted the feast day in ... The path to 200 houses of the Lord: A look at Nos. 41-60 Editor's note: The Church News is highlighting the first 200 operating houses of the Lord of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with a weekly compilation of 20 temples in chronological order over a 10-week period. In June 1997, during a three-and-a-half-hour car trip to the El Paso International Airport in Texas, President Gordon B. Hinckley considered the sacrifices of members ... assignment essay homework paper phd report review speech thesis