| Definition: The Visitation, Feast of |
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Luke's account of the Annunciation (Gabriel the archangel's announcement to Mary) is immediately followed by his story of Mary's visit to her cousin Elizabeth. Despite her advanced age, Elizabeth was soon to be the mother of John the Baptist (Luke 1:39-56). Elizabeth greets Mary with the words that are the second part of the Hail Mary. In response, Mary offers a prayer which is known today as the Magnificat.
The date, May 31, was chosen so that the order of the days of the liturgy follows the actual order of events. Thus, the Visitation falls after the celebration of the Annunciation but before the celebration of the birth of John the Baptist on June 24. |
Source:
Youth Update Glossary
St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2002 |