Catholic Public Domain Version

Luke 2:36-48 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

36. And there was a prophetess, Anna, a daughter of Phanuel, from the tribe of Asher. She was very advanced in years, and she had lived with her husband for seven years from her virginity.

37. And then she was a widow, even to her eighty-fourth year. And without departing from the temple, she was a servant to fasting and prayer, night and day.

38. And entering at the same hour, she confessed to the Lord. And she spoke about him to all who were awaiting the redemption of Israel.

39. And after they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their city, Nazareth.

40. Now the child grew, and he was strengthened with the fullness of wisdom. And the grace of God was in him.

41. And his parents went every year to Jerusalem, at the time of the solemnity of Passover.

42. And when he had become twelve years old, they ascended to Jerusalem, according to the custom of the feast day.

43. And having completed the days, when they returned, the boy Jesus remained in Jerusalem. And his parents did not realize this.

44. But, supposing that he was in the company, they went a day's journey, seeking him among their relatives and acquaintances.

45. And not finding him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking him.

46. And it happened that, after three days, they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, listening to them and questioning them.

47. But all who listened to him were astonished over his prudence and his responses.

48. And upon seeing him, they wondered. And his mother said to him: "Son, why have you acted this way toward us? Behold, your father and I were seeking you in sorrow."