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    The Presentation of Christ in the Temple  
     
    Invitation to Confession
    Hear the words of our Saviour Jesus Christ:
    'I am the light of the world.
    Whoever follows me shall never walk in darkness
    but shall have the light of life.'
    Let us therefore bring our sins into his light
    and confess them in penitence and faith.
   
cf John 8.12
    Gospel Acclamation
    Alleluia, alleluia.
    This child is the light to enlighten the nations,
    and the glory of your people Israel.
   
cf Luke 2.32
All
  Alleluia.  
     
    Introduction to the Peace
    In the tender mercy of our God
    the dayspring from on high has broken upon us,
    to give light to those who dwell in darkness
          and in the shadow of death
    and to guide our feet into the way of peace.     
   
cf Luke 1.78,79
       
    Eucharistic Prefaces  
     
    Short Preface (contemporary language)
    And now we give you thanks
    because, by appearing in the temple,
    he comes near to us in judgement;
    the Word made flesh searches the hearts of all your people
    and brings to light the brightness of your splendour.
     
    Short Preface (traditional language)
    And now we give thee thanks
    because, by appearing in the temple,
    he comes near to us in judgement;
    the Word made flesh searches the hearts of all thy people
    and brings to light the brightness of thy splendour.
     
    Extended Preface for use with Eucharistic Prayers A, B and E
    It is indeed right and good,
    always and everywhere to give you thanks and praise
    through Jesus Christ, who is one with you from all eternity.
    For on this day he appeared in the temple
    in substance of our flesh
    to come near to us in judgement.
    He searches the hearts of all your people
    and brings to light the image of your splendour.
    Your servant Simeon acclaimed him as the light to lighten the nations
    while Anna spoke of him to all who looked for your redemption.
    Destined for the falling and rising of many,
    he was lifted high upon the cross
    and a sword of sorrow pierced his mother's heart
    when by his sacrifice he made our peace with you.
    And now we rejoice and glorify your name
    that we, too, have seen your salvation
    and join with angels and archangels
    in their unending hymn of praise:
     
    Blessing
    Christ the Son of God, born of Mary,
    fill you with his grace to trust his promises and obey his will;
    and the blessing …
     
© The Archbishops' Council of the Church of England, 2000-2004
All of the official Common Worship publications are being published by Church House Publishing.