| Definition: The Annunciation, Solemnity of |
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We celebrate Jesus' conception by the Virgin Mary, as accomplished through the power of the Holy Spirit, on March 25. The Gospel of Luke (1:26-38) provides the account which is the first time Mary appears in the Bible. The Angel Gabriel greets her with the words that have become the first part of the prayer called the "Hail Mary."
All of the most important feasts of Mary are really celebrations of Jesus. That is why the name of this feast was changed from the "Annunciation of Mary" to the "Annunciation of Our Lord." It is celebrated nine months before the celebration of Jesus' birth, except when March 25 falls during Holy Week, in which case it is celebrated after Easter. |
Source:
Youth Update Glossary
St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2002 |