Summary
Conclusion
The Feast of the Annunciation is a celebration of divine initiative and human openness to God’s plan. It is a reminder that God enters human history not with force, but through invitation — and that Mary’s humble “yes” changed the world. Through this feast, Christians are invited to reflect on their own call to say “yes” to God and to live lives of faith, trust, and obedience.
“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” – John 1:14
The Feast of the Annunciation: A Celebration of Divine Encounter
The Feast of the Annunciation, celebrated on March 25, is one of the most significant days in the Christian liturgical calendar. It commemorates the moment when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary and announced that she would conceive and give birth to Jesus Christ, the Son of God. This event, also known as the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary, marks the incarnation of Christ and is deeply rooted in Scripture, theology, and Christian tradition.
Biblical Foundation of the Annunciation
The primary account of the Annunciation is found in the Gospel of Luke:
Luke 1:26–28: *”In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man named Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.'”
Gabriel’s message to Mary continues:
Luke 1:31–32: “You will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.”
Mary’s response — “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38) — is a profound act of faith, humility, and obedience that Christians across generations have revered.
Theological Significance
The Annunciation is a pivotal moment in the history of salvation. It marks:
- The Incarnation: God taking on human flesh. The moment Mary agrees to God’s plan, the divine Word becomes incarnate in her womb (cf. John 1:14).
- Mary’s Fiat: Her “yes” — fiat mihi secundum verbum tuum — is seen as the ultimate model of trust and submission to God’s will.
- Fulfillment of Prophecy: The angel’s message echoes the prophecy in Isaiah 7:14: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Historical and Liturgical Observance
The Feast of the Annunciation has been celebrated since at least the 4th century and is observed by Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, and some Protestant churches. It falls exactly nine months before Christmas, emphasizing the beginning of Jesus’ earthly life.
In many churches, the day is marked with Mass or Divine Liturgy, scripture readings from Luke 1 and Isaiah 7, and the recitation of the Angelus — a traditional prayer reflecting on the Annunciation.
In the Orthodox Church, the feast is known as the Evangelismos and is one of the Twelve Great Feasts. If it falls during Holy Week or even on Good Friday, both feasts are celebrated with special liturgical care.
Symbols and Devotion
1. The Lily
A common symbol associated with the Annunciation is the white lily, representing Mary’s purity and innocence.
2. Icons of the Annunciation
Christian art frequently depicts Mary seated or standing with the angel Gabriel greeting her with a gesture of reverence. These icons are used in homes and churches to honor this sacred moment.
3. The Angelus Prayer
Recited at morning, noon, and evening, the Angelus recalls the Annunciation and invites believers to reflect on the Incarnation daily.
