The title, Nunc Dimittis, comes to us from the Vulgate, the 4th century Latin translation of the Bible. Having received Jesus’ body and blood for our salvation, like Simeon who held Him in his arms, we depart in peace according to God’s Word, singing Simeon’s song.

Before the Eucharistic meal is concluded, we give thanks, asking that the salutary gift of Jesus’ body and blood have its way in our lives, strengthening us in faith towards God and in fervent love toward one another (Luke 2:29-32; 1 Chronicles 16:1-10; Psalm 107:1, 118:1).