Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

May Mary's example give us the strength to radiate light and warmth to the Church, and help us to be dwelling places of God's joyful presence on earth.

Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary - November 21

The Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, celebrated on November 21st, honors a significant yet often overlooked moment in the life of Our Lady. Though not recorded in Sacred Scripture, this event is rooted in ancient Christian tradition and highlights the total dedication of Mary to God from her earliest years. It reminds us of Mary’s singular role in salvation history and her unwavering commitment to the Lord’s will, making her an exemplar of faith and obedience for all Catholics.

The Story of Mary’s Presentation

The story of the Presentation of Mary comes from apocryphal sources, particularly the Protoevangelium of James, which tells of her parents, Saints Joachim and Anne, presenting her to the Temple in Jerusalem at the tender age of three. According to tradition, Joachim and Anne—grateful for the miraculous birth of Mary after years of infertility—fulfilled their vow to dedicate her to God’s service.

Mary’s presentation in the Temple was not merely a symbolic act; it represented her consecration to God, a foreshadowing of her future “yes” at the Annunciation, when she would become the Mother of God. Her entire life was marked by complete surrender and faithfulness to God’s plan, even when she did not fully understand where it would lead her.

Mary’s Example of Faith and Obedience

The feast of Mary’s Presentation is a reminder of her profound faith and holiness from the very beginning of her life. It speaks to her unique role in God’s plan for salvation as the one who was prepared from the start to be a pure and worthy vessel to bear Christ. It also highlights the beauty of parental faith and dedication, as Mary’s presentation was made possible by the faith and fidelity of Joachim and Anne.

This feast invites us to reflect on how we, like Mary, are called to dedicate ourselves to God’s will in all things. Her willingness to be set apart for God’s purposes challenges us to entrust our lives, our families, and our plans to the Lord with the same openness and trust.

Celebrating the Feast

The Church has celebrated the Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary since at least the 6th century in the East and the 11th century in the West. It emphasizes not only Mary’s purity and holiness but also her unique place in the story of salvation. The feast is an opportunity to honor Mary’s readiness to serve God and to ask for her intercession as we strive to follow her example.

A Call to Consecrate Ourselves to God

The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary encourages us to reflect on our own dedication to God’s will. Just as Mary was presented and consecrated to the Lord, we too are called to offer our lives to Him. We can draw inspiration from her complete trust and faithfulness, seeking to cultivate these virtues in our own spiritual journey.

Saying "Yes" to God

As we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may we be inspired by her unwavering faith and commitment to God’s plan. Let us strive to imitate her openness and dedication, entrusting our lives to God and saying “yes” to His call with joyful hearts.

Mary, Mother of God, and our Mother, pray for us!