Reverend Larry Silva, Bishop | Diocese of Honolulu

Mary and Joseph were not the only ones presenting their 40-day-old son in the Temple, as the law of Moses prescribed. In a culture that valued children, many couples likely went to Jerusalem for this purpose. However, Simeon and Anna identified Jesus as different from other children due to a revelation by the Holy Spirit.

These two individuals were attuned to the Holy Spirit through prayer, allowing them to recognize Jesus as "the light of the nations and the long-expected Messiah." Their insight highlights how we can see Christ in our daily lives through spiritual awareness.

The bishop questioned how we recognize Jesus today amid routine life. He asked, "How is it that when bread and wine are changed by the power of the Holy Spirit, we see the Body and Blood of Christ?" He noted that while most people might see just a newborn presented at the Temple, Anna and Simeon saw prophecy fulfilled.

In celebrating World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life, he acknowledged those who have dedicated themselves to Christ's love in poverty, chastity, and obedience. They follow Anna and Simeon's example by seeing beyond mere appearances.

He emphasized their role in education and outreach: "They have shone the light of Jesus on their students" and led efforts to aid those suffering or marginalized. By recognizing Christ in others, they help spread his light.

The bishop highlighted contemporary struggles with darkness: victims of Los Angeles wildfires, families affected by recent air disasters in Washington D.C., homeless neighbors living under freeways, youth facing family dysfunctions—all need hope.

He called on believers to become bearers of Christ's light outside church walls: "We began this liturgy by carrying lighted candles into the church...so that all may walk in the brilliance, hope and love of Christ our Light."