The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary – A Life for God
Each year on November 21, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary—a moment of contemplation, faith enrichment, and divine fulfillment, when Saints Joachim and Anne, in love and gratitude, offered their beloved daughter back to the Lord who had given her to them.
Though this story is not found in the canonical Scriptures, it is lovingly preserved in ancient Christian tradition and cherished by the faithful as a glimpse into the early holiness of Mary, the one who would become the Mother of God. It is part of an apocrypha (related writing, specifically the non-canonical literature – Protoevangelium of James, on the life of Mary believe to have been written prior to 200 AD) based on tradition and accounts from the era.A Promise Born of Prayer
Before Mary’s birth, her parents, Saints Joachim and Anne, endured years of longing and sorrow. In their culture, childlessness was a heavy burden, but their hearts remained steadfast in prayer. Joachim withdrew into the wilderness to fast and pray for forty days, while Anne, tearful yet trusting, poured out her heart to God. Their prayers were heard. An angel appeared to Anne, proclaiming the promise of a child—one favored by the Lord.
In gratitude, they vowed to dedicate this child wholly to God’s service. Thus, when Mary was just three years old, they brought her to the Temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling their promise and entrusting her life to the One who had entrusted her to them.
The Child Who Would Become the Temple
Tradition tells us that as little Mary ascended the steps of the Temple, the priest received her with prophetic words:
“The Lord God has magnified your name for all generations; through you, the Lord will reveal deliverance to the children of Israel.”
There, among the other young girls, Mary spent her days in prayer, study, and service—her heart quietly preparing for the divine mission that would one day unfold. This feast, then, is not only about a moment in history but about a life of complete surrender to God’s will.
In presenting Mary, Saints Joachim and Anne remind all parents of the sacred to nurture their children in faith and lead them toward God. Mary, in her obedience, reminds us that our lives, too, are meant to honor God, be humble, and remain faithful in all times.
A Living Temple of God’s Presence
The Presentation of Mary points forward to the great mystery of the Incarnation. Just as Mary entered the Temple, she herself would become the living Temple—the dwelling place of the Word made flesh. Her entire being, from the moment of her conception, was oriented toward God’s purpose. This feast invites us to enter into that same spirit of dedication: to let our hearts be temples where Christ may dwell.
A Prayer for Parents and Children
Holy Father, fill the hearts of our children with the love and joy that shine through the Blessed Virgin Mary. Bless all parents with the wisdom and faith of Saints Anne and Joachim, that they may place You first in all things and trust Your plan even in times of trial. May our homes be holy ground where Your grace abides, and may we, like Mary, always say “yes” to Your will.
Amen.The art with this article is circa 1671 by Luca Giordano
