Presentation of the Lord

February 2nd Like the Virgin, Jesus was born under the Law and subject to Mosaic proscriptions regarding first born males. Here, Jesus is being presented by his parents in the Temple. St. Joseph holds the two turtledoves for sacrifice that were the usual offerings of those too poor to afford larger animals. Under the canopy of the altar, the baby is recognized by the Holy Man Simeon and Prophetess Anna as being the Messiah and deliverer of Israel. Simeon, realizing the divine nature of the child, tenderly holds him with his hands covered as a sign of respect while Anna holds a scroll of prophecy and points to the child.