Prayer for the Presentation of the Lord
For February 2 — the Feast of the Presentation, also called Candlemas. Forty days after Christmas: Mary and Joseph bring the infant Jesus to the Temple. Simeon holds him and prophesies.
The Prayer for the Presentation of the Lord is for February 2, also called Candlemas. Forty days after Christmas, Mary and Joseph bring the infant Jesus to the Temple, where Simeon holds him and prophesies. The prayer invites you to hold Christ in your arms and to carry his light to the nations. Candles are blessed this day. Simeon's words, A light for revelation to the Gentiles, are said at Night Prayer every evening. The prayer invites you to see old age and new life together. Bring candles to church to be blessed, and keep one lit at home when a family member is in need.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayPrayer for the Presentation of the Lord
Lord Jesus, on this day we remember the day You were brought to the Temple by Mary and Joseph, obedient to the Law of Moses, forty days after Your birth.
Simeon had waited his whole life for this moment. The Holy Spirit had promised him he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. And when he took You in his arms, he sang:
"Lord, now let your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel." (Luke 2:29-32)
A light. On this day, we bless candles — physical flames that speak of You, the Light of the World. Every candle we light is a small proclamation: the darkness has not overcome it.
And to Mary, Simeon whispered the shadow: "A sword will pierce your own soul too." She kept this, adding it to everything she was already keeping.
Lord, let us be like Simeon — faithful in long waiting, joyful at the moment of encounter, and ready to say: "It is enough. I have seen. Now I can go in peace."
Amen.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Prayer for the Presentation of the Lord?
Pray it on February 2, with a blessed candle.
How do I pray the Prayer for the Presentation of the Lord?
Light the candle, read the prayer, and say Simeon's words, Now, Lord, you let your servant go in peace.
Who is the Prayer for the Presentation of the Lord for?
Parents of newborns, the elderly and consecrated persons.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play