Presentation of a Child.
Some years ago, I was invited to a birthday party of a young boy who was turning three
years old. At first I did not understand why the family was throwing such a special party. Then I
learned that when a child turns three years old it is a very important event for the family. I was
told that there was a special blessing for this child because this is an opportunity to
commemorate the popular traditional story of the Presentation of Virgin Mary at the Temple at
the age of three. These children would be wearing dresses and tuxedos at Mass and special
prayers and a blessing are given to them. After talking about children as great signs of blessings,
the presider asks the parents to continue to form the child in the ways of the faith and they
publicly accept this commitment. The Christian community also welcomes the child with great
joy. The priest, the parents and the godparents trace the cross of the child’s forehead. The last
time that we had this celebration at St. Boniface I also attended the party. By the decoration of
the place, the music, and the dancing I could tell that it was not a party for children. The whole celebration presents an opportunity to provide some catechesis for parents and godparents and for the whole community.

(Suggested Donation by the Deanery: $25)

For more information, please contact the parish office at 402-352-3540.