Today, Mary and Joseph, in accordance with Mosaic law, took the tiny Jesus to the Temple of Jerusalem to offer him to the Lord. Simeon and Anna, inspired by God, recognized that Child as the long-awaited Messiah and prophesied about him.

Anna is a "prophetess", a wise and pious woman who interpreted the deep meaning of historical events and of God's message concealed within them. Consequently, she could give thanks to God and speak of the Child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. Her long widowhood devoted to worship in the Temple, fidelity to weekly fasting and participation in the expectation of those who yearned for the redemption of Israel culminated in her meeting with the Child Jesus.

—Bringing her Son to Jerusalem, the Virgin Mother offered him to God as a true Lamb who takes away the sins of the world. She held him out to Simeon and Anna as the proclamation of redemption; she presented him to all as a light for a safe journey on the path of truth and love.