Dear Parishioners of Mary Immaculate and Saint Rose,

The Feast of the Presentation on the Lord Jesus in the temple is observed on February 2nd. This is forty days after Christmas. As the firstborn male, Jesus was presented in the temple to be redeemed by the sacrifice of two turtledoves. Sometimes this feast is also referred to as the purification of Mary, as every Jewish woman was to be declared clean following childbirth.
As Jesus is being presented in the temple by Mary and Joseph, it was revealed to Simeon that this was the long awaited one of Israel. This child would be a sign of contradiction.

Simeon was privileged to see the long-awaited Messiah. He received a glimpse of the glory to be revealed in Jesus. Even though he did not know how it would happen, Simeon knew that this child would one day bring salvation not only to his own people of Israel, but indeed to all people. It was as if Jesus were a light of hope shining in the darkness.

An elderly holy woman, Anna, also sees the light of Christ. She who faithfully worshipped God for years was given the gift of seeing the Messiah.

This theme of light prevails in the celebration of the Feast of the Presentation. The candles that are so important in Catholic worship and devotion are blessed on this day. It is a reminder to all of us that Christ is the light shining in our darkness. We are not only to follow where that light leads us, we are also to allow the light of our faith and love for Jesus to shine forth from us.
Perhaps now more than any other time in many years, the world needs the witness of faithful Christians. It is our hope that shines through the darkness of despair. We are to remind people that as difficult as things may be, Jesus is with us.  We are not alone.

Simeon and Anna were permitted only a glimpse of the glory of God that Jesus would bring, yet it was enough. It was that glimpse that gave them the assurance that God would save his people.

Luke 2:29-32 Nunc Dimittis
Lord, now you let your servant go in peace. Your word has been fulfilled:          my own eyes have seen the salvation which you have prepared in the sight      of every people: a light to reveal you to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel. ~Canticle of Simeon

Msgr.Cox
Presentation of Christ in the Temple, Vouet (1641)