Presentation of a Child
We Rejoice with You, Thanking God for the Gift of the Life of Your Child!
The presentation and blessing of your child is a tradition of giving thanks to God and the Blessed Virgin Mary for health and safety of mother and child. It stands as a promise that the parents will dedicate themselves to the education of the child in the Catholic faith so that child may be a witness of Christ in the world.
If the child has not yet been baptized, this blessing is a sacred beginning towards giving this child new life in Christ in the sacrament of baptism. Of course, a presentation is not a substitute for baptism. After the presentation, parents may visit the parish office to schedule a baptism for their child if needed.
Scheduling the Presentation of Your Child
Parents can request a presentation by calling the parish office at (213) 749-8950 or filling out the registration form below to schedule a date and time. Parents may request a presentation at any mass on a Sunday. A presentation requires no fee, and no formal classes or preparation other than arrangements made with the parish office.
The presentation ordinarily occurs after the announcements at the Sunday mass. Family and friends are asked to dress modestly to honor the sacredness of the occasion. Flowers may be given to the Blessed Virgin Mary in thanksgiving after the conclusion of the mass.
The Origin of this Tradition
In many countries in Latin America including Mexico, children are presented in the Church between the ages of 40 days and 3 years of age. The practices dates to hundreds of years ago. Since infant mortality rates were high, it was believed that infants were no longer in danger after age of 3. This religious custom is undoubtedly rooted in the presentation of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Temple.
Contact the Parish
621 W Adams Blvd
Los Angeles, California 90007