The Feast of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple falls about forty days after Christmas and throughout the Church is associated with light. It seems to be a minor feast among the Maronites, compared to the rather intensive and extensive liturgical celebrations of it one finds in the Latin and Byzantine churches through history, but it still has some measure of importance.
Feast of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple
Romans 9:30-10:4; Luke 2:22-35
This light reveals to nations,
gives glory to Israel;
lawful service is fulfilled.
Christ fulfilled the holy law,
was consecrated to God;
He came with saving power.
Mary carried the Infant,
an offering unto God,
who receives all offerings.
The God who receives our gifts
was given a gift to God
that we might be raised to Him.
God became a newborn child,
and, entering the temple,
made us His holy Temple.
May your altar give mercy,
your holy Church give healing;
may we be a fit Temple.
Christ, High Priest and Lord of Priests,
receives the sacrifices;
O Lord, receive our prayers.
