Feast of the Annunciation
The angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will bear the Son of God.
The Annunciation is kept on March 25, nine months before Christmas, but in Catholic and some Anglican calendars it is moved when that date falls in Holy Week or Easter week, usually to the Monday after the Easter octave. Churches using the Julian calendar keep March 25 on their calendar, which is April 7 on the Gregorian calendar.
When Is Feast of the Annunciation?
The Annunciation is kept on March 25, nine months before Christmas, but in Catholic and some Anglican calendars it is moved when that date falls in Holy Week or Easter week, usually to the Monday after the Easter octave. Churches using the Julian calendar keep March 25 on their calendar, which is April 7 on the Gregorian calendar.
Because the Gregorian date changes from year to year, check a calendar published by the tradition or your local community for this year's date.
Why It Matters
The Annunciation commemorates the archangel Gabriel's visit to Mary, the moment of the Incarnation, exactly nine months before Christmas. Mary's response 'Let it be done to me according to your word' is the model of faithful surrender.
How It Is Observed
Church services, reflection on the Incarnation. One of the twelve great feasts in Eastern Christianity.
Sacred Text
“I am the Lord's servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”
, Luke 1:38 ↗