presentation of the lord prayers of the faithful

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• Presentation of Our Lord

FEB. 2: THE PRESENTATION OF OUR LORD MASS PRAYERS AND READINGS.

The feast was first observed in the Eastern Church as ‘The Encounter.’ In the sixth century, it began to be observed in the West, in Rome, with a more penitential character, and in Gaul (France) with solemn blessings and processions of candles, popularly known as ‘Candlemas.’ The presentation of the Lord concludes the celebration of the Nativity and, with the offerings of the Virgin Mother and the prophecy of Simeon, the events now point towards Easter.

ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Suscépimus, Deus, misericórdiam tuam in médio templi tui. Secúndum nomen tuum, Deus, ita et laus tua in fines terræ; iustítia plena est déxtera tua. Your merciful love, O God, we ponder in the midst of your temple. Your praise, O God, like your name, reaches the ends of the earth; your right hand is filled with saving justice.

The Gloria in excelsis (Glory to God in the highest) is said.

COLLECT 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, may we be presented to you with minds made pure. Through our Lord.

 Proper Readings

READING I Mal 3:1–4 Thus says the Lord God: Lo, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me; and suddenly there will come to the temple the Lord whom you seek, and the messenger of the covenant whom you desire. Yes, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. But who will endure the day of his coming? And who can stand when he appears? For he is like the refiner’s fire, or like the fuller’s lye. He will sit refining and purifying silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi, refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the Lord. Then the sacrifice of Judah and Jerusalem will please the Lord, as in the days of old, as in years gone by.   RESPONSORIAL PSALM R. Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord! Lift up, O gates, your lintels; reach up, you ancient portals, that the king of glory may come in! R. Who is this king of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, mighty in battle. R. Lift up, O gates, your lintels; reach up, you ancient portals, that the king of glory may come in! R. Who is this king of glory? The Lord of hosts; he is the king of glory. R.   READING II Heb 2:14–18 Since the children share in blood and flesh, Jesus likewise shared in them, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the Devil, and free those who through fear of death had been subject to slavery all their life. Surely he did not help angels but rather the descendants of Abraham; therefore, he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every way, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest before God to expiate the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.    ALLELUIA Lumen ad revelatiónem géntium, et glóriam plebes tuæ Israel. This is the light of revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people, Israel.   GOSPEL Lk 2:22–40 [short version Lk 2:22–32] When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, Mary and Joseph took Jesus 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, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord.  Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: “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 the sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” (33) The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.

FOR THE REFLECTION HOMILY ON THE FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF OUR LORD, CLICK HERE , HERE AND HERE .

When this Feast falls on a Sunday, the Creed is said.

UNIVERSAL PRAYER

Priest’s Introduction To God the Father almighty, dear brothers and sisters, may every prayer of our heart be directed, for his will it is that all humanity should be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.

• For the holy Church of God, that the Lord may graciously watch over her and care for her, let us pray to the Lord. Grant this, almighty God.
• For the peoples of all the world, that the Lord may graciously preserve harmony among them, let us pray to the Lord. Grant this, almighty God.
• For all who are oppressed by any kind of need, that the Lord may graciously grant them relief, let us pray to the Lord. Grant this, almighty God.
• For ourselves and our own community, that the Lord may graciously receive us as a sacrifice acceptable to himself, let us pray to the Lord. Grant this, almighty God.

Priest’s Prayer O God, our refuge and our strength, hear the prayers of your Church, for you yourself are the source of all devotion, and grant, we pray, that what we ask in faith we may truly obtain. Through Christ our Lord.

PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS May the offering made with exultation by your Church be pleasing to you, O Lord, we pray, for you willed that your Only Begotten Son be offered to you for the life of the world as the Lamb without blemish. Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

 Preface of the Presentation of the Lord

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Vidérunt óculi mei salutáre tuum, quod parásti ante fáciem ómnium populórum. My eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION By these holy gifts which we have received, O Lord, bring your grace to perfection within us, and, as you fulfilled Simeon’s expectation that he would not see death until he had been privileged to welcome the Christ, so may we, going forth to meet the Lord, obtain the gift of eternal life. Through Christ our Lord. [–» Concluding Rite]

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Catholic Prayer: Feast of the Presentation of the Lord: Blessing of Candles and Propers of the Mass for the Feast of the Presentation, Ordinary Form

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• Blessing of Candles and the Propers of Mass for February 2, Extraordinary Form
• Presentation of the Lord " href="/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?id=33"> Presentation of the Lord

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Description:

This feast was originally celebrated in the Eastern Churches as "The Meeting" or "Encountering" ( Hypapante ), in the Church mankind meets the Lord. By the sixth century it began to be celebrated in the West, where the focus became the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary and was accompanied by solemn blessings and processions with candles; hence, it is popularly called "Candlemas." By the offerings of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph and the prophecy of St. Simeon, the life of Christ here begins to point toward his Resurrection. The following is the The blessing of candles, procession and Mass propers for Candlemas or the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord in the Third Roman Missal.

Prayer after Communion By these holy gifts which we have received, O Lord, bring your grace to perfection within us, and, as you fulfilled Simeon's expectation That he would not see death until he had been privileged to welcome the Christ, so may we, going forth to meet the Lord, obtain the gift of eternal life. Through Christ our Lord. R. Amen.

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The Presentation of the Lord: Prayers of the Faithful

February 2, 2020

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

Prayers of the Faithful

We pray our faith leaders may possess the patience and integrity of Simeon and Anna. May hope spring up within all humanity from laying our eyes first upon the face of Christ Jesus.

We pray to the Lord.

We pray for the Diocese of Colorado Springs, for its mission and future. May we manifest Christ Jesus in our prayer, and service to those in need.

We pray for true wisdom to emerge in our decision making so that our children and grandchildren may be wrapped in the arms of justice and sure peace, in meaning and reconciliation throughout our world.

We pray to see the face of Jesus among the timid and the shy, among people discouraged by lack of jobs, ill health and threats of divorce and severe grief. May our hearts be laid bear for the needs of our sisters and brothers.

We pray for the courage to fast and pray as we wait for Jesus to be manifest in threats of war, violence, and hatred. May Simeon and Anna become models of faith and may their glances upon Jesus teach us how to be grateful forever.

We pray to the Lord

We pray that our lives may bring peace and consolation to those who grieve here on earth. May the dead be not forgotten within our lives of faith. In this Mass…

2 thoughts on “ The Presentation of the Lord: Prayers of the Faithful ”

I would like to pray for everybody who is mentally ill whom feel like the Church has treated unfairly. That includes me.

Now that I’m older, this gospel reading about Simeon and Anna resonates in my heart . There’s a great scene in Franco Zeferelli’s “Jesus of Nazareth” when Simeon hears the baby Jesus crying in the temple, and he perks up, and says “Where is HE?” It’s a wonderful scene! I’m also very thankful for the “Nunc Dimittis”. (I recall I got a good laugh out of our former parish choir director, who was a retired Marine, when Army was playing Navy in their annual football game, and I suggested to him, “Maybe the Army can chant, “Nuke Da Middies!”)

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Prayers of the Faithful

A ZENIT DAILY DISPATCH

They should not be too vague, not too personal

ROME, 03 October 2017 (ZENIT) Answered by Legionary of Christ Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy and dean of theology at the Regina Apostolorum university.

Q: At the intercessions, should the lay faithful keep their petitions more broad (i.e., for the Church) rather than personal? — L.P., Victoria, British Columbia

A: Norms regarding the prayers of the faithful are found in the Introduction to the Lectionary, Nos. 30-31, and the General Instruction of the Roman Missal. The norms apply to clergy and laity alike and not just the “lay faithful.”

No. 30 of the Lectionary states: “In the light of God’s word and in a sense in response to it, the congregation of the faithful prays in the universal prayer as a rule for the needs of the universal Church and the local community, for the salvation of the world and those oppressed by any burden, and for special categories of people.

“The celebrant introduces the prayer; a deacon, another minister, or some of the faithful may propose intentions that are short and phrased with a measure of freedom. In these petitions ‘the people, exercising its priestly function, makes intercession for all men and women,’ with the result that, as the liturgy of the word has its full effects in the faithful, they are better prepared to proceed to the liturgy of the Eucharist.”

No. 31 continues: “For the prayer of the faithful the celebrant presides at the chair and the intentions are announced at the ambo. The assembled congregation takes part in the prayer of the faithful while standing and by saying or singing a common response after each intention or by silent prayer.”

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal, in Nos. 69-71, states:

“[69] In the Prayer of the Faithful, the people respond in a certain way to the word of God which they have welcomed in faith and, exercising the office of their baptismal priesthood, offer prayers to God for the salvation of all. It is fitting that such a prayer be included, as a rule, in Masses celebrated with a congregation, so that petitions will be offered for the holy Church, for civil authorities, for those weighed down by various needs, for all men and women, and for the salvation of the whole world.

“[70] As a rule, the series of intentions is to be: For the needs of the Church; / For public authorities and the salvation of the whole world; / For those burdened by any kind of difficulty; / For the local community. Nevertheless, in a particular celebration, such as Confirmation, Marriage, or a Funeral, the series of intentions may reflect more closely the particular occasion.

“[71] It is for the priest celebrant to direct this prayer from the chair. He himself begins it with a brief introduction, by which he invites the faithful to pray, and likewise he concludes it with a prayer. The intentions announced should be sober, be composed freely but prudently, and be succinct, and they should express the prayer of the entire community.

“The intentions are announced from the ambo or from another suitable place, by the deacon or by a cantor, a lector, or one of the lay faithful.

“The people, however, stand and give expression to their prayer either by an invocation said together after each intention or by praying in silence.”

As can be seen from these norms there is a certain balance to be struck between being excessively generic and excessively specific as these prayers should reflect the needs of the community.

Expressing the prayer of the entire community means that they should not be too personalized either, by reflecting too closely the spiritual interests of an individual or group within the community or my mentioning very particular individual needs.

Besides, abstract intentions should also be avoided. For example, instead of asking generically for “human rights,” the request should be for those who suffer persecution or injustice.

In order to strike the right balance, many parishes tailor the usual petitions mentioned above to some more specific petition. Thus, for example, the petition for the Pope, bishop and the Church can make reference to some recent activity or event to make them more specific. To wit: “For our Holy Father, Pope Francis, as he undertakes an apostolic pilgrimage to the Church of X ….”

Likewise, some communities include in the prayers of the faithful a general petition for those who are sick, or those who have recently passed away, in which they incorporate the names of some members of the community.

The petitions for those in great need can mention specific recent needs such as the victims of recent natural disasters or other tragedies.

To guarantee this balance, especially on a Sunday, the intentions should always be prepared beforehand and approved by the pastor or celebrant. It is praiseworthy to follow the general order indicated in No. 30: asking for the universal Church, the local community, etc.

There are also many worthy editions of books with formulas for the general intercessions, even some covering every day of the year. These books may be used for the general intercessions themselves or as resources in preparing intercessions tailored to the needs of a particular community.

If the priest wishes to offer the people an opportunity to add their own personal intentions, he could possibly introduce a moment of silence by saying, “Each one of us can add a personal intention in silence.” Following the moment of silence, he recites, with hands extended, the concluding prayer.

An important point to observe here is that the people’s “exercising the priestly function” in the prayer of the faithful is not limited to those who read the intentions.

Indeed, the most important aspect of these petitions are not how they are articulated in the formulas.

The “prayer” of the prayer of the faithful consists above all in the response or silent prayer made by the people after the invitation “Let us pray to the Lord.”

Thus, the exercise of the common priesthood lies in the very fact that each member of the assembly participates in offering intercessory prayer for all men and women. Interceding before God for our fellows is an eminently priestly function in which all baptized Catholics may participate albeit always in communion with the sacred priesthood.

This article has been selected from the ZENIT Daily Dispatch © Innovative Media, Inc.

ZENIT International News Agency Via della Stazione di Ottavia, 95 00165 Rome, Italy www.zenit.org

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• Presentation of the Lord

February 2, 2024

• Epiphany of the Lord
• Baptism of the Lord
• Second Sunday after the Epiphany
• Third Sunday after the Epiphany
• Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
• Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
• Transfiguration Sunday
• Season after Pentecost
• Malachi 3:1-4
• Psalm 84 or Psalm 24:7-10
• Hebrews 2:14-18
• Luke 2:22-40
• God of steadfast love, you sent your Son to be the light of the world, saving people everywhere from sin and death. As Anna gave thanks for the freedom he would bring, and Simeon saw in him the dawn of redemption, complete your purpose once made known in him. Make us the vessels of his light, that all the world may glory in the splendor of your peace. Amen.
• Intercessory
• God of love, you refine silver and shelter the sparrow's nest. Accept the prayers we bring this day, for you know all that tests and troubles us. Prayers of the People, concluding with: Embrace our needs in your blessing, so that we may be sustained, even in times of trial. Amen.
• Strong and mighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus, the presentation of your Son in the temple was his first entrance into the place of sacrifice. Grant that, trusting in his offering upon the cross to forgive our sins and uphold us in the time of trial, we may sing your praises and live in the light of your salvation, Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Uplifting & inspirational prayers, verses, poems & more

Prayers of the Faithful

Otherwise known as the Universal Prayer or General Intercessions, these prayers are introduced by the celebrating priest, then a deacon or another member of the congregation or the priest himself proposes a number of intentions to pray for, and the people respond with a short invocation such as “Lord, hear our prayer”. Finally, the priest says a concluding prayer.

General Instruction of the Roman Missal states:

In the General Intercessions or the Prayers of the Faithful, the people respond in a certain way to the word of God which they have welcomed in faith and, exercising the office of their baptismal priesthood, offer prayers to God for the salvation of all. It is fitting that such a prayer be included, as a rule, in Masses celebrated with a congregation, so that petitions will be offered for the holy Church, for civil authorities, for those weighed down by various needs, for all men and women, and for the salvation of the whole world.

The custom of offering such prayers is rooted in the scripture from 1 Timothy 2:1-6 :

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way. This is good, and it is acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, the testimony to which was borne at the proper time.

Prayers of the Faithful Examples

(Priest or leader) With all our heart and mind let us pray to the Lord. Let us lay our requests before Him, saying “Hear our prayer”.

(For the needs of the Church) Inspire all those who lead and serve in this church. May they know your guidance and direction. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer. 

Help us to be understanding and forgiving of all those we encounter. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer. 

Show us how to serve one another, to offer love, care and support. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

(For the world) Guide all those who are called to lead and advocate in the world, may they carry love with them always. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

Inspire our leaders, teachers, doctors, social workers and counsellors to be bringers of hope in all situations. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

Protect all those who carry peace to other nations. Bless the food, care and shelter they provide. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

(For those in need) Comfort those who live with grief. Help them see the light of heaven. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

Come embrace those in pain and physical suffering. May they feel you close to them. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

Watch over all those who feel isolated and alone. Calm their fears and lead them into peace and freedom. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

(For the local community) Strengthen and encourage all those who seek to serve and protect the vulnerable. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

Lead us to be generous with our time, possessions and money. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

For those who have lost loved ones recently, comfort them in their grief and heal the broken-hearted. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

Finally, we bring to mind any in our community that we know to be need.  (pause for a few seconds)  May love and goodness fill their lives. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

Video Explanation and Example

Related Prayers…

• The Serenity Prayer
• The Lord’s Prayer
• Awesome Inspirational Prayers

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Sunday Connection

The presentation of the lord.

God speaks to us in many ways, including through the Sunday Scripture readings. The Sunday Connection provides useful background and activities to better understand the upcoming Sunday's Scripture readings, helping you to connect the Scripture to daily life in a meaningful way.

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

• Readings & Background

First Reading Malachi 3:1–4 The Lord you seek will come to the temple. Responsorial Psalm Psalm 24:7,8,9,10 The Lord is the king of glory. Second Reading Hebrews 2:14–18 Jesus became like us in order to save us. Gospel Reading Luke 2:22–40 (Shorter Form: Luke 2:22–32) Simeon recognizes the infant Jesus as the promised Messiah.

Background on the Gospel Today the Church celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the temple. The Presentation, which is celebrated 40 days after Christmas, is not mentioned in the other Gospels. Only Luke tells the story, most likely because he writes for Gentile Christians who are not familiar with the Jewish rite of presentation and purification. In addition, the intent of Luke’s Gospel is to show that God’s promise to Israel, fulfilled in Jesus, extends to Gentiles.

Luke recognizes Joseph and Mary as faithful Jews who bring Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem. Here they present their firstborn son to the Lord. Jesus is thus consecrated as required by the Law of Moses. Present in the temple at this time are Simeon and Anna. Both are awaiting the restoration of God’s rule in Israel.

Simeon had been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would see Christ the Lord, the Messiah, before he died. The holy man immediately recognized the infant Jesus as the promised Savior, a “light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” Anna also recognized Jesus as the fulfillment of the promise of redemption and spoke about him to all.

Gospel Reading Luke 2:22–40 (Shorter Form: Luke 2:22–32) Simeon recognizes the infant Jesus as the promised Messiah.

Making the Connection (Grades 1, 2, and 3) Children at this age like to receive gifts. Simeon and Anna and the people of Israel waited hopefully for the greatest gift of all—a Savior. We too must prove ourselves faithful followers of Jesus by being “gifts” to all we meet. Materials Needed

• Presentation written on a sign or chalkboard
• Symbols of Baptism, such as holy water, candle, oil, white garment, and/or baptismal certificate

Preparation for the Scripture Readings

• Say: In the Gospel Reading for the Presentation of the Lord, we hear about Jesus’ Presentation. Does anyone recognize inside this long word a shorter word that would help us understand the reading? (present) Surely we know what a present is. Raise your hand if you’ve ever received a present. What’s another word we use to describe a present? (a gift) That’s right. Jesus is the greatest, the greatest gift we have ever received.
• Explain: The Gospel for this feast day is long so we are going to read only part of it. Listen carefully and then we’ll talk about it afterward. Read aloud Luke 2:22–32, omitting verse 23 if desired.
• Say: Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the Temple to be presented to God. Your mother and father also brought you to church to be presented to God. Look at the items in the front of the room. What are they a sign of? (Baptism) That’s right. Your parents presented you to God in church just as Jesus’ parents presented him to God in the Temple. Baptism is the first sacrament we receive.
• Continue: When Mary and Joseph arrived with baby Jesus, a holy man named Simeon was in the Temple. He was waiting for someone who would save him and all the people of Israel. He was waiting for a savior. Who is our Savior? (Jesus) Simeon knew the minute he saw the baby Jesus that he was the one he was waiting for—a Savior for all people. Simeon recognized the birth of Jesus as a great gift.
• Say: We recognize, just as Simeon did, that Jesus is the greatest gift ever given. All of us who are followers of Jesus are also asked to be “gifts” to others by caring for them. What are some ways we can show we care? (Accept all reasonable answers.)
• Conclude by praying the Glory Be to the Father with the children.

Making the Connection (Grades 4, 5, and 6) At this age, children are familiar with their parents or other adults introducing them to people they have not met before. Explain that Jesus, too, was “introduced” by Mary and Joseph to God. Materials Needed

• Collection basket of “play” money
• Say: This Gospel is probably not familiar to most of us. It is read on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, which is celebrated yearly on February 2.
• Ask: What do you understand by the word presentation? (Accept all reasonable responses.) A presentation can be the introduction of a new product or a new idea or a new person. Let’s listen to this Sunday’s Gospel. Think about which definition applies.
• Read aloud Luke 2:22–32, omitting verse 23 if desired.
• Continue: In today’s reading, who or what is being presented? (Jesus) Who is presenting him? (Mary and Joseph) What was the name of the man in the temple? (Simeon) Whom did he recognize Jesus as? (the promised Savior) What was Simeon’s reaction? (He broke into prayer.) What had God had promised Simeon because of his great faith? (He wouldn’t die before seeing the Savior.)
• Say: I didn’t expect you to remember all the answers after hearing the Gospel only one time. The important thing to remember is that God kept his promise by sending his Son to be our Savior.
• Ask the children why there is a collection basket with “money” up front. Remind the children that in the Gospel story, “[Mary and Joseph took Jesus] to present him to the Lord . . . and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons. . . .”
• Explain: Everything that we have comes from God. From the beginning of time, people have offered sacrifice to pay homage to God and to thank him for his great gifts. Mary and Joseph offered turtledoves or pigeons. At Mass we offer gifts of money to support the spread of God’s Word and to care for people in need. As I pass this collection basket, take one “dollar bill” and write on it one thing you will do to show your love for God. Then put it in your pocket or in a drawer at home as a reminder until you do your good deed.
• Say: Now spend some quiet time with Jesus—your Lord, your friend, and your Savior. After a few moments, pray the Sign of the Cross together.

Making the Connection (Grades 7 and 8) At this age, young people are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities. Remind them that the Gospel, too, is a call to action. We read and study the Scripture to become better acquainted with the ways we can serve God. Materials Needed

• Copies of Luke 2:25–40 (one per student)
• Canned goods and other nonperishable food items

Preparation for the cripture Reading

• Explain that this feast day’s Gospel is a reading for the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, which is celebrated on February 2.
• Pass out copies of the Scripture reading and ask a volunteer to read aloud verses 25–28 and 33–34a; another to read Simeon’s words: verses 29–32 and 34b–35; and one to read about Anna: verses 36–40. Encourage the readers to speak distinctly and reverently; ask the other young people to follow along silently.
• When finished, ask the young people: How did Luke describe Simeon? (devout, anxious for the redemption of Israel) What promise did the Holy Spirit make to Simeon? (that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah of the Lord) How was Simeon able to recognize the baby Jesus as the Savior? (through the power of the Holy Spirit) Anna also recognized the infant Jesus as the Savior. What enabled her to do so? (She worshiped night and day, fasted, and prayed.)
• Say: Both Simeon and Anna were holy persons whose lives were focused on the coming of the Savior. Even though Jesus was only a newborn, they recognized him because they were filled with the Holy Spirit.
• Point out the canned goods and other items in the front of the room and ask why they are there. (Accept all reasonable answers.) Then say: We are also called to recognize Jesus. We will find him in others. Sometimes they simply need a kind word or acknowledgment; often they may need food or clothing.
• Pray aloud: Let us pray that, like Simeon and Anna, we too will be filled with the Holy Spirit so that we can recognize the goodness and holiness in all the people we meet and have the courage to help where needed. Come, Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with compassion and kindle in us the fire of your love. Amen.

Family Connection Today we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. Discuss with the family the persons of Simeon and Anna as they meet Jesus. (Luke 2: 25–40)

Because Simeon and Anna lived lives of prayer and fasting in the Temple, they were filled with the Spirit of God. That is why they were able to identify Jesus as the Savior even though Jesus was only a baby. To these two holy people, he was recognizable as the Redeemer who had been promised. Simeon described Jesus as “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.”

We too are called to recognize Jesus as Lord. Together as a family discuss ways to recognize Jesus as Lord by praying and attending Mass, fasting, and serving others. As a family, decide on one specific sacrifice you can make in order to alleviate the suffering or need of someone you know.

Upcoming Connections

Second sunday of easter, cycle b (or sunday of divine mercy), third sunday of easter, cycle b, fourth sunday of easter, cycle b, fifth sunday of easter, cycle b, sixth sunday of easter, cycle b, the ascension of the lord, cycle b, pentecost sunday, cycle b.

A Ritual Journey: The Presentation of the Lord’s Prayer

Kent Burreson Blog Catechumenate , Lord's , Prayer , presentation , Teach

In our current liturgical journey we have crossed the threshold of the Triduum into the Great Week of Weeks, the Easter Season. The neophytes’ attention now turns to mystagogical interpretation of their initiatory experience. But we must finish our ritual journey in this blog. Finishing that journey takes us back to the Fifth Week in Lent, following the Third Scrutiny on the 5 th Sunday in Lent, when the Presentation of the Lord’s Prayer takes place. The RCIA recommends a weekday, while Welcome to Christ designates the Fifth Sunday in Lent. As I indicated in the post on the Presentation of the Creed, the Guide for Celebrating Christian Initiation with Adults [GCCIA] contends that these presentations

Sum up and ritualize the entire action of what has taken place during the formation of those intending to receive the initiation sacraments: their coming to know and accept the Church’s teachings and their deepening faith in the one God through a relationship with Jesus Christ. These rites also prepare the elect to take their place among the faithful at worship, particularly in the celebration of the Eucharist, when they will profess the faith of the Church in the Creed and call upon God as Father, as Jesus taught his followers to do. These two actions are the privilege of the baptized (p. 64).

These rites make the most sense in the midst of a regular dismissal of the catechumens to study the Word during the celebration of the Lord’s Supper. They would not be confessing the Creed or praying the Lord’s Prayer as part of the liturgical assembly. While this would presumably not be their first introduction to the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer, it would be their first opportunity to truly make them their own. Apart from a regular dismissal pattern, the presentations of the Creed and Lord’s Prayer might best come earlier in the catechumenal process. A simple ritual structures the presentation of the Lord’s Prayer by the assembly and the reception of the Lord’s Prayer by the elect. The central elements of the rite are the homily and the Gospel Reading from Matthew in which the Lord instructs the disciples how to pray. The rite in Welcome to Christ is focused on prayer in general and does not include an actual presentation of the Lord’s Prayer. It does include a presentation of a book of worship. [ GCCIA observes that a beautiful copy of the Lord’s Prayer could be presented after the rite.] The outlines of the rite during the Offertory in the RCIA and in Welcome to Christ are as follows:

Gospel Reading from Matthew (Presentation of the Lord’s Prayer)

Prayer over the Elect

Dismissal of the Elect

Welcome to Christ

Commitment to Prayer

Presentation of a Book of Worship

Blessing of the Candidates

In the RCIA the elect are called to gather in the front of the nave, facing the pulpit, before the reading of the Gospel. They are instructed to listen attentively to how the Lord teaches his disciples to pray. The homily catechetically “opens up the meaning and importance of the prayer for both the elect and the faithful” ( GCCIA , 73). While the prayers and dismissal in the RCIA do not contain any explicit references to the Lord’s Prayer or to prayer in general, Welcome to Christ includes a call to commitment to prayer for each season of the church year. The text for year B reads, “As the disciples were taught to follow Jesus by living their life for others, so the church prays for you and for all the needs of the world, confident in the life-giving presence and mercy of Christ” ( Welcome to Christ, 32).  With this rite the elect have been given two primary elements of their catechetical formation in the faith and are prepared to confess and pray them at their initiation into Christ through Holy Baptism.

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Presentation of the Lord Novena

• About the Presentation of the Lord
• Why Pray the Presentation of the Lord Novena?

The Presentation of the Lord is a great feast day in the Church. This feast celebrates the Presentation of the Child Jesus in the Temple. The Presentation of the Lord is also one of the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary.

There is a lot to contemplate and meditate on in relation to the Presentation of the Lord. You can use this novena to enter more deeply into the mystery of the Presentation of the Lord.

Every year on February 2nd, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. Until 1969, this feast was called the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary. According to the Gospel of Luke, both the Presentation of the Infant Jesus in the Temple and the Purification of Mary took place on the same day.

In Jewish law, a woman was considered unclean when she gave birth. Forty days after giving birth to a male child, a Jewish woman was to present herself in the Temple to be purified. At this time, she was to take her son with her to the Temple so that she could present him to the Lord. This custom was to commemorate the occasion of firstborn Hebrew boys being spared during the first Passover. 

During a purification, a woman was to take a lamb and a turtledove to be sacrificed in thanksgiving and reparation for sin. If a family was too poor to sacrifice a lamb, they could instead sacrifice two pigeons or two turtledoves. 

Our Lady was completely free from sin, so she did not need to complete this ritual. But she willingly completed it out of honor for the Mosaic laws and love for God. Jesus, as the Son of God, did not have to undergo these rituals either. The deep humility of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph can be seen in their willing compliance with these laws.

The Gospel of Luke says that Mary and Joseph offered two turtledoves in the Temple during the Presentation. Luke 2:22-24 says, “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.’”

Luke’s Gospel then goes on to say that an old prophet named Simeon and a prophetess named Anna were also in the Temple that day. Both Simeon and Anna had been longing for the Messiah their whole lives.

The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah, and the Holy Spirit helped Simeon recognize that the Infant Jesus was the Messiah. When Simeon held Jesus, he proclaimed a hymn of praise. He also told Mary that she would experience great pain and grief because of the suffering her Son would one day endure. 

Presentation of the Lord Feast Day: February 2nd

You can pray the Presentation of the Lord Novena if you are preparing to celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. You can use novena to ask God to help you enter more deeply into the celebration of the Presentation of the Lord. You can also pray this novena to ask God to help someone you know to enter more deeply into the celebration of the Presentation.

Additionally, you can pray the Presentation of the Lord Novena if you are seeking to grow in the virtues that the Holy Family demonstrated at the Presentation of the Lord, such as humility or submission to God’s laws.

You can pray the Presentation of the Lord Novena for any intention!

Presentation of the Lord Novena Prayers

Presentation of the lord novena - day 1.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 

Dear Lord, we thank You and praise You for the mystery of the Presentation. In honor of this mystery, we ask You to hear our prayers.

You were presented in the Temple in Jerusalem forty days after Your birth, in accord with the laws You gave to the Hebrew people. Out of love for God, Your Blessed Mother Mary and St. Joseph willingly carried out the commands of this law and traveled to the Temple as a family. 

We ask You to help us in all of our needs, and we particularly pray today that all families may be full of holiness and love.

Help us to grow in holiness and love for You each day of our lives. Give us the grace to do all we can to serve You faithfully in every circumstance.

And we especially ask in this novena for (mention your intentions here).

Lord, hear our prayers!

Presentation of the Lord Novena - Day 2

Today, let’s pray for all children. Let’s offer prayers that God may bless and protect all children in our world. 

Day’s Prayers:

You were a small baby when Your Blessed Mother and St. Joseph presented You in the Temple in Jerusalem in accord with the Jewish law and customs. In Your Presentation, we can see an example of holy family life, and we can contemplate Your holy childhood as we entrust our children to You.

We ask You to help us in all of our needs, and we particularly pray today that You will bless and protect all children.

Help us to always do all we can to carry out Your will in our lives. Give us the grace to serve You in whatever ways You call us to each day.

Presentation of the Lord Novena - Day 3

You have given us a great gift in the mystery of Your Presentation in the Temple. We can look to Your Presentation for an example of holy family life and motherhood. Though she was sinless and not bound by the laws of purification from sin, Your Blessed Mother willingly followed the laws out of love for God. 

We ask You to help us in all of our needs, and we particularly pray today that You will bless and protect all mothers.

Help us to always serve You worthily in every circumstance we encounter. Give us the grace to do all things in our lives out of love for You.

Presentation of the Lord Novena - Day 4

Your Blessed Mother was sinless and was therefore not bound by the laws of purification from sin. But out of deep love for God and true submission to His laws, she presented You in the Temple and submitted to the rituals of purification. Though You Yourself were not bound by the need to be presented, You submitted to the will of Your Father.

We ask You to help us in all of our needs, and we particularly pray today that You will help us to grow in submission to Your will.

Help us to always do whatever is necessary to grow in holiness and virtue. Give us the grace to serve God more faithfully each day of our lives. 

Presentation of the Lord Novena - Day 5

In the mystery of Your Presentation in the Temple, we can see the many virtues of Your Blessed Mother and St. Joseph. Because You were the Son of God and Mary was without sin, they were not bound by the Hebrew laws. But in deep humility, they performed the prescribed rituals.

We ask You to help us in all of our needs, and we particularly pray today that You will help us to grow in the humility we need for holiness.

Help us to do all we can to grow in all the virtues we need for holiness each day. Give us the grace to submit ourselves fully to You in every circumstance.

Presentation of the Lord Novena - Day 6

When You were Presented in the Temple in Jerusalem as an infant, Your Blessed Mother and St. Joseph acted with profound obedience and humility. In their humble offering of two turtledoves, we can see that Your Holy Family was poor in material things. We can see that material wealth is far less important than spiritual wealth.

We ask You to help us in all of our needs, and we particularly pray today that You will help us to grow in holy poverty.

Help us to be truly detached from all things of this world in our lives. Give us the grace to serve You more wholeheartedly each day of our lives.

Presentation of the Lord Novena - Day 7

During Your Presentation in the Temple, both the prophet Simeon and the prophetess Anna were present. These holy people had been living in hope of the Messiah, and You brought their hope to fulfillment when they witnessed Your Presentation in the Temple. You rewarded their faithfulness and allowed them to see their Messiah.

We ask You to help us in all of our needs, and we particularly pray today that You will help us to grow in the virtue of hope.

Help us to always make growth in virtue and holiness our top priority in life. Help us to truly strive to become saints each day of our lives.

Presentation of the Lord Novena - Day 8

You came to the world as a man, for the purpose of redeeming mankind. You knew that You would suffer and die for us. At Your Presentation in the Temple, the prophet Simeon foretold that Your Mother would suffer greatly as well. Mary willingly accepted this suffering out of love for God.

We ask You to help us in all of our needs, and we particularly pray today that You will help us to grow in the ability to accept all sufferings You allow in our lives.

Help us to always make use of every opportunity You give us to grow in holiness. Give us the grace to grow closer to You each day of our lives.

Presentation of the Lord Novena - Day 9

Your Blessed Mother willingly chose to participate in the salvation of mankind as God asked her to. At Your Presentation in the Temple, the prophet Simeon told her that a sword of sorrow would pierce her heart. Despite this knowledge of the suffering she would endure, she trusted in God and continued to do what He was asking of her.

We ask You to help us in all of our needs, and we particularly pray today that You will help us to grow to a deeper trust in You.

Help us to always do all we can to carry out Your will faithfully in our lives. Give us the grace to love You more and more each day of our lives.

Thoughts and Prayers for the Faithful

Be Christ for all. Bring Christ to all. See Christ in all.

Presentation of the Lord

Luke 2:22-40

When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, Mary and Joseph took Jesus 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, and to offer sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons , in accordance with the dictate of the laws of the Lord. Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: “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 the sight of all the people: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted — and you yourself a sword will pierce — so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshipped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.

Today is the Feast of the Presentation. In some cultures, this feast represents the end of the Christmas-Epiphany season. The feast is also known as Candlemas because of the tradition of having candles blessed on this day that will be used throughout the rest of the year.

The Jewish law mandated that first-born sons belonged to God. Those that were not of the priestly tribe of Levi had to be redeemed in the temple to demonstrate their continued status as God’s unique possessions (Ex 13:1-2; Nm 3:11-13). The redemption price was five silver shekels, and the ritual usually took place within a month of the child’s birth. After giving birth to a male child, the mother was regarded as unclean for seven days and was required to go to the temple after forty days to undergo a purification rite and make an offering of a lamb or, if she were poor, of two turtledoves or pigeons (Lev 12:1-8). Mary, of course, being free of sin from the moment of her conception, was not obliged to carry out the ritual of purification. However, just as her Son would later submit to being baptized, Mary submitted to the law of Moses in all things according to human expectations. Naturally, they offered the gift prescribed for the poor, rather than the lamb offered by the rich.

Simeon was a righteous man, filled with the Holy Spirit. He had been promised by God not to die until he had set his eyes on the face of the Redeemer. God kept this promise, and Simeon praised God with the prayer now known as the Nunc Dimittis, a prayer offered every night by those who recite Night Prayer for the Liturgy of the Hours: “Lord, now you let your servant go in peace, your word has been fulfilled…” It is a beautiful prayer, one that reflects both on God keeping His promises and our hope for new life after death. Simeon testifies to the mission of Jesus, to be a “light” to all people and the “glory” of Israel. Jesus has not come only for the sake of Israel. He will be Savior for all humankind. Simeon also has a word for Mary. She will share in her Son’s suffering. A sword will pierce her heart. She will not be spared the sacrifice of her Son. But, she will share in His glory. First among His disciples, she is our model for faithfulness and the first to experience the fullness of redemption. Anna’s testimony, similar to Simeon’s, is directed toward the redemption of Jerusalem. Both Simeon and Ann have been faithful for their many years. They are rewarded for their fidelity by receiving the privilege of being among the first witnesses of the Incarnation and the mission of Jesus Christ.

There is much to reflect on for this feast. There is the dedication of Mary and Joseph to the obligations of the law of Moses. They do not regard themselves as special or exempt from what binds their people to God. They are faithful. They offer their sacrifice, just as Mary hears from Simeon of the greater sacrifice her Son will make, and of her own. There is the faithfulness of Simeon and Anna, who dedicate years, decades of their lives to the worship of God and to faith in His promises. And, there is the promise of God, to Mary (you will bear a son), to Simeon (you will see the Christ), to Anna, (the redemption of Jerusalem) and, of course, to all humankind in the person, mission, passion, death and resurrection of Jesus.

The Feast of the Presentation is all about the promises of God and remaining faithful because of our hope in His promises.

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A Catholic Priest in Mississippi

This is a blog of homilies, reflections, and photos from a Roman Catholic priest serving in the Diocese of Jackson in the state of Mississippi. Currently, I am the pastor of Holy Savior in Clinton and Immaculate Conception in Raymond. I also serve as Vicar General of the Diocese.

Sunday, January 21, 2024

Prayers of the faithful - the presentation of the lord - 2 february 2024.

Lord Jesus, as a child, you were presented in the Temple. 

Christ Jesus, you grew up in holiness. 

Lord Jesus, you are the son of God and son of Mary. 

Prayers of the faithful: 

PRIEST: On this Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, we join with the prayers of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as we present our prayers and ourselves to the Lord:

1. For the whole Church: that inspired by the Holy Spirit

with wisdom and knowledge, we may follow the example of Simeon and Anna in making Jesus and his mission known to the world.

2. For all the children of our world, that they may be loved and cherished by their families and by the societies in which they live.

3. For all who live under the constant threat of violence and the shadow of war, that all people will turn from violence to peace. We pray in a special way for a stop to violence and crime here in the Jackson metro area. 

4. For all the children, youth, and adults who are preparing this year for their sacraments, that they will always keep Jesus at the center of their lives.

5. For all who are grieving or afflicted. For those who are sick or suffering in any way.

6. For the repose of the souls of the faithful departed, for their entry into eternal life. 

6. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. 

PRIEST: Heavenly Father, you have given us Jesus your Son as the light of the world. May we always walk in his light and live by his truth. We make this prayer through your son Jesus Christ our Lord forever and ever.  AMEN. 

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