This Sunday 29 January is the final Sunday of Epiphany, marking 40 days from the birth of Jesus. As the first-born son, the Mosaic Law requires that he is presented in the Temple at Jerusalem, with a ritual sacrifice, in this case two pigeons. This fulfils the prophecy of Malachi (3: 1-5): 'Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple....'. It also marks the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary after giving birth according to Mosaic Law. Strange things happen: an old man Simeon, who has had revealed to him that he will not die until he has seen the Lord's Christ, meets Joseph, Mary and the baby Jesus in the Temple, and makes an amazing prophecy about the child - he will be a sign to be spoken against, will cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and Simeon predicts the anguish which Our Lady will suffer: 'And a sword will pierce your own soul also.' (Luke 2: 22-40). Another prophet, Anna, an old widow who spends all her time in the Temple fasting and praying, gives thanks to God and speaks about the child to all who are waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.

To mark Our Lord's entry into the Temple, we will start our Mass at the back of the church with the lighting of candles, singing of the Song of Simeon, the Nunc Dimittis, and then process into church with our introit hymn. All are welcome either on the livestream or in person! Come and join us at 10.30 a.m. for this very special feast day.