Synaxis of the Holy Prophets Simeon and Anna

Submitted by Pontus on Wed, 01/13/2010 - 15:29.
02/03/2010 - 00:00
02/03/2010 - 23:59
Etc/GMT-6

 

Holy Simeon the God-ReceiverThe Encounter with Our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ with Simeon and Anna, is celebrated forty days after the Birth of the Savior on Dec. 25. Coming to his believing and exultant people, as "a light to enlighten the nations and the glory of his people Israel." St. Sophronius of Jerusalem wrote about this feast:

"Let us all hasten to meet (encounter) Christ. Everyone should be eager to join the procession and to carry a light. Our lighted candles are a sign of the divine splendor of the One who comes to expel the dark shadows of evil and to make the whole universe radiant with the brilliance of his eternal Light."

Holy Anna the ProphetessAs promised by God, Simeon lived to hold the Child Jesus in his arms. The "Canticle of Simeon" is one of the most famous hymns in the Eastern Church, used at every Vespers service, every Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts during the Great Fast, as well as on the Feast of the Encounter.

"Now you may dismiss your servant, O Lord,  in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen the salvation which you prepared before the face of all people. A light to the revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of Israel."

Anna, a widow, was consecrated and remained in service at the Temple for 54 years. At age 84, she, together with Simeon, held the Child Jesus in her arms.

 

Many thanks to the Metropolitan Cantor Institute and Wikipedia.org for this article.