The Annunciation of the Lord is one of the most important events in the story of salvation, celebrated by the Church on March 25, exactly nine months before Christmas. This feast commemorates the moment when the Angel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary to announce that she had been chosen to be the mother of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
According to the Gospel of Luke, Gabriel greeted Mary with the words, “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you.” Mary’s response, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word,” demonstrates her complete trust, obedience, and humility. In this brief exchange, Mary exemplifies perfect faith and submission to God’s plan, making her the model for all Christians.
The Annunciation marks the beginning of the Incarnation, the moment when God became man in the person of Jesus Christ. This event is central to our faith because it shows God’s closeness to humanity and His desire to dwell among us. It reminds us that God often works through ordinary people in extraordinary ways.
At Everest Academy, we use the feast of the Annunciation to teach students about obedience, courage, and faith. Mary’s “yes” to God is a powerful example for children and adults alike: even when the future is uncertain, trusting in God’s plan can lead to the greatest good.
The Annunciation also invites us to reflect on our own response to God. Like Mary, we are called to listen carefully, embrace God’s will, and be ready to serve. This feast encourages prayer, reflection, and openness to the ways God might be inviting us to act in our daily lives.
In celebrating the Annunciation, the Church honors Mary’s faith and recognizes the extraordinary moment when God entered the world in a humble and human way. It is a day to rejoice in God’s love, marvel at His plan for salvation, and be inspired by Mary’s example of faith and trust.