Presentation of our Lord to the Temple (Mayalto)

The Celebration of the Presentation of our Lord holds significance on multiple levels, serving as both a religious festival within the Church and a marker on the astronomical calendar, signifying the midpoint between the winter solstice and vernal equinox, indicating the approaching spring. This occasion commemorates a scriptural event that encompasses the Presentation of the infant Jesus, a Christological feast; the Purification of the Virgin, a Mariological feast; and simultaneously, it honors the temple, making it a temple feast.

This festivity, observed on February 2, is known in the Orthodox Church as The Presentation of Christ in the Temple or Mayaltho in Syriac. Another name for it is The Meeting of our Lord. In Roman Catholic and Protestant traditions, it is referred to as The Purification of the Holy Virgin or Candlemas in some Western churches. The ritual involves the presentation of Jesus in the Temple by Mary and Joseph, who offer the customary purification offering of turtledoves or pigeons forty days after Christ’s birth, in adherence to the Law of Moses.

Historically, Egeria documented a celebration of the Presentation in the Jerusalem Church around AD 380, held on February 14th. Initially, it was known as the 40th day after Epiphany, highlighting the connection with Jesus’ birth celebrated during the Epiphany Feast. Over time, the feast’s observance on February 2nd became prevalent in regions where Christ’s birth was marked on December 25th. Emperor Justinian’s introduction of the feast in 542 to the Eastern Roman Empire, following the end of a pestilence in Constantinople, possibly led to its adoption in Rome by Pope Gregory I.

The presentation of Jesus in the Temple adhered to Mosaic Law, involving a sacrificial offering by Mary, who, due to financial constraints, presented a pair of doves instead of a lamb. The narrative also emphasizes the redemption of the first-born son, though no silver payment is mentioned in Mary’s case.

The central theme in the feast’s prayers and hymns revolves around the renewal of humanity through Jesus Christ, symbolizing the transition from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Jesus, as the Redeemer and Hope of Salvation, is portrayed as the Light of the World, bringing divine illumination to all.

The feast underscores the transformative mission of Jesus Christ, who came to offer abundant life to all. This message challenges anything that is not life-giving and urges individuals to align their lives with the principles of love, truth, courage, and goodness found in the Gospel. The Church’s mission extends beyond spreading the message to permeating and perfecting the temporal order with the spirit of the Gospel.

As individuals reflect on this feast, they are encouraged to consider what they present to the Temple of Christ, examining the condition of their souls and expressing gratitude for what they have received. The focus on Christ is seen as a transformative journey, acknowledging that while Christian life may not be easy, drawing closer to Him enriches life and strengthens the connection to the ultimate goal. The celebration emphasizes the arrival of the true light that enlightens every person, inviting all to rejoice and express gratitude for the compassionate and holy Salvation revealed in Christ.