Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord

History

The Solemnity of the Annunciation (also referred to as the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Annunciation of Our Lady) celebrates the coming of the Angel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary to announce to her the special mission God had chosen for her in being the mother of His only son.

The feast of the Annunciation began to be celebrated on this day during the fourth and fifth centuries, soon after the date for celebrating Christmas was universalized throughout the Church.

This feast celebrates the Incarnation of the Second Person of the Trinity and the salvation of all mankind. This point of our salvation was deeply discussed by many of the Church fathers, to explain it to the faithful and to show the deep love God has for us.

The Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord is celebrated on March 25.