Mary in the Temple (I)

Today the Virgin is introduced in the House of the Lord "The most pure temple of the Savior, the precious bridal chamber and Virgin, the sacred treasure of the glory of God, enters the House of the Lord, bringing the grace of the Divine Spirit. The angels of God praise her: Truly this woman is the heavenly tabernacle." The Feast of the Presentation of Mary at the Temple (or "Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple" for the Orthodox), comes from an ancient tradition historically linked to the dedication of a basilica in honor of Mary. The building was ordered by Elias, bishop of Jerusalem, and finished at the expense of Emperor Justinian (527-565). It is located near the Temple area, where the Blessed Virgin spent her childhood, consecrated to the divine service. This church was dedicated on November 21, in the year 543, and named "New Church" to distinguish it from the old one in honor of the Nativity of Mary, the Probatica. In the course of the 8th century the feast spread to all the Oriental churches, highly favored by the people of God. It became part of the twelve great feasts of the year, still celebrated today in the East with a preparatory vigil and prolonged until November 25.