Summary: Anna, an elderly prophetess, dedicated to temple worship, encountered baby Jesus during His presentation. She expressed gratitude to God and shared news of the child with others awaiting Jerusalem's redemption. Following this event, Mary, Joseph, and Jesus returned to Nazareth, where Jesus matured in strength and wisdom under God's grace.
Gospel Acclamation: A holy day has dawned upon us. Come, you nations, and adore the Lord. Today a great light has come upon the earth.
There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer.
And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.
When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.