Feast of the Presentation of 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 three years old. This was to carry out a promise made to God when Anna was still childless.

Though unhistorical, 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.

PRAYERS OF THE MASS

OPENING PRAYER

Lord God, you looked with love on your handmaid, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and raised her up to be the Mother of your Son. Through her prayers and example, may we give you perfect obedience and, from hearts filled with joy, share with others the wonders of your love.

PRAYER OVER THE GIFTS

Almighty God, accept our prayers and gifts in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who offered herself as your handmaid. May we too offer ourselves as a sacrifice pleasing in your sight.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION

Lord, our God, we have shared the living bread from heaven. May we imitate the Blessed Virgin Mary and know the joy of obedience in the service of your Church.