This month, we celebrate the presentation of the Blessed Mother. Mary's presentation was celebrated in Jerusalem in the sixth century, and a church was built there in honor of this mystery. 

As with Mary's birth, we read of Mary's presentation in the temple only in apocryphal literature.  Though it cannot be proven historically, Mary's presentation has an important theological purpose. It continues the impact of the feasts of the Immaculate Conception and of the birth of Mary. It emphasizes that the holiness conferred on Mary from the beginning of her life on earth continued through her early childhood and beyond.

Thus this feast helps us focus on an important truth about Mary's dedication to God from the beginning of her life. She herself became a greater temple than any made by hands, as God came to dwell in her in a marvelous manner and sanctified her for her unique role in God's saving work. At the same time, the magnificence of Mary enriches her children. We too are temples of God and sanctified in order that we might enjoy and share in God's saving work.