The Book of Occasional Services, one of the liturgical books in the Episcopal Church, offers several blessings specific to seasons and feast days. It does not, however, offer a blessing specific to the Feast of the Presentation, a major feast in the liturgical year.
The following blessing has been prepared based upon the collects and gospel reading (Luke 2:22-40) for the day:
May Almighty God, who today revealed to Simeon the light which enlightens the nations, fill your hearts with the light of faith. Amen.
May Jesus Christ, who was this day presented in the temple, present you before Almighty God with pure and clean hearts. Amen.
May the Holy Spirit who guided Simeon to the temple to see God’s salvation, guide you in the path of goodness and bring you to the Light that shines for ever. Amen.
And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit be upon you and remain with you for ever. Amen.
The Feast of the Presentation, also known as Candlemas, is also a day for blessing candles; the candles used in the procession on this day, the candles that will be used throughout the liturgical year, and candles to be given to the congregation after the liturgy.
