Homily for the Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Today, the Church celebrates the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who devoted herself to following God's plan for her life from an early age. Her unwavering faith and commitment led God to choose her as a living temple—a vessel through which He could uniquely embody Himself. Mary's openness to divine inspiration allowed her to become a dwelling place for God's Son, Jesus, in a real and physical sense.

In today's Gospel passage, Jesus speaks of those who "do the will of [His] Father in heaven." Mary exemplifies this perfectly as the first and most complete answer to God's call. Her lifelong dedication to His will made her a suitable vessel for His Son to enter the world.

We, too, are called to fulfill God's will, allowing us to become temples of the Lord and carry His presence to others. As St. Paul wrote, "Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?"

On this day, we ask for Mary's intercession, praying that we may always strive to do the Father's will. In doing so, we, too, can become living temples of the living God, with His Spirit dwelling within us.