The Annunciation is one of the oldest Christian feasts. It was established in commemoration of the Archangel Gabriel's message to the Virgin Mary of the good news about the forthcoming birth of God's Son, Jesus Christ, and that she was chosen to be "blessed among women". Troubled by the angel's greeting, Mary then believed in the truthfulness of his promise and expressed her faith with the words: "Let it be to me according to your word." The words with which the archangel greeted Mary formed the basis of the prayer "Ave Maria" ("Hail Mary").
Catholics celebrate the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary today.
The Annunciation is one of the oldest Christian feasts. It was established in commemoration of the Archangel Gabriel's message to the Virgin Mary of the good news about the forthcoming birth of God's Son, Jesus Christ, and that she was chosen to be "blessed among women". Troubled by the angel's greeting, Mary then believed in the truthfulness of his promise and expressed her faith with the words: "Let it be to me according to your word." The words with which the archangel greeted Mary formed the basis of the prayer "Ave Maria" ("Hail Mary").
According to Christian theology, this event marks the beginning of the divine redemption of the world – the Council of the Holy Trinity on the Incarnation for the salvation of people from their sins and the granting of eternal life. Therefore, the feast of the Annunciation holds special significance for Christians.
The Annunciation falls either during Great Lent or during the week of Easter celebrations (Bright Week). Depending on this, the feast has a special liturgy each time. The church celebration of the Annunciation is not cancelled, even if the feast falls on Easter, and then the hymns of the Annunciation are combined with the Easter chants. If the Annunciation falls during Lent, the fast is relaxed for its sake.