The angel Gabriel was sent from God
to a town of Galilee called Nazareth,
to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph,
of the house of David,
and the virgin’s name was Mary.
Modern day Nazareth
“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”
But she was greatly troubled at what was said
and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.
Then the angel said to her,
“Do not be afraid, Mary,
for you have found favor with God.
Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son,
and you shall name him Jesus.”
Remains of the house of the Virgin Mary, Nazareth
Altar marking the site of the annunciation: Here the Word became Flesh
Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.
May it be done to me according to your word.”
Then the angel departed from her.
Basilica of the Annunciation, Nazareth
Today we celebrate the magnificent event that happened in the small Galilean village of Nazareth two centuries ago within the walls of the Basilica of the Annunciation. In that precise location, divinity and humanity intersected when a lowly virgin accepted God’s request to unfold the plan of salvation within her womb. The Virgin Mary had the liberty to say no to God’s request, yet she agreed, and she has become all the greater because of it.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Pictures are mine, all rights reserved.
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