The memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, known in the East as The Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple, commemorates the occasion of Saints Joachim and Anne bringing their child, Mary, to the Temple in Jerusalem for a blessing and to consecrate her to the Lord in thanksgiving for the answered prayer of having a child. This tradition is recounted in the non-canonical Protoevangelium of Saint James, likely written around the year 200, and has many parallels to the birth and presentation of the Prophet Samuel in 1 Samuel 1.
The story of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary can point to a lot of things, including the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady, as well as having gratitude for answered prayers. Step 12 is about sharing what we’ve been given in a spirit of gratitude. What is on your gratitude list for today?
“Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee, blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.”
Reflection by Brad Farmer