Saturday, November 21, 2009

Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple

Within various liturgical calendars, we today celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, or what is also called the Feast of the Entrance of the Most Holy Mother of God into the Temple in the Byzantine East (who also celebrate this feast today).


Presentation of the Theotokos


Here are some of the liturgical propers for this day from some different liturgical rites.

O God, who didst will that this day the ever blessed Virgin Mary, dwelling place of the Holy Ghost, should be presented in the temple: grant, we beseech Thee, that through her intercession, we may be worthy to be presented in the temple of Thy glory. (Collect found within the Usus Antiquior Romanus and the Dominican Missal)

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Today is the prelude to God's munificence, and the announcement of salvation of men: in the Temple of God the Virgin is seen openly, foretelling to all the coming of Christ. Wherefore let us cry out to her with all our strength: "Joy to you, Fulfillment of the Creator's Plan!" (Troparion, Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom)

The most pure Temple of the Saviour, his most precious bridal chamber, the Virgin, sacred treasury of God's glory, enters today into the house of the Lord, bringing with her the grace of the divine Spirit. Wherefore the angels of God are singing: "Behold the Heavenly tabernacle!" (Kontakion, Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom)

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Grant us, O Lord, to be protected by the prayers of the blessed Mary ever Virgin, that as we celebrate her venerable Presentation with humility we may be commended to Thee through her merits and prayers. (Collect, Carmelite Missal)

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Hear the prayers of Thy servants, O God of mercy, so that we who have gathered together on the feast of the Presentation of the God-bearer and Virgin, may appease Thee who have been appeased by her prayers of intercession, and may we be brought out safely from the dangers that constantly surround us to Thee. (From the Usus Antiquior Ambrosianus, or Ambrosian Missal)

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