The Annunciation commemorates the archangel Gabriel’s announcement to the Virgin Mary that she would experience an immaculate conception by the power of the Holy Spirit and give birth to Jesus Christ.

This event is described in the Gospel of Luke, and it marks the Incarnation, the belief that Jesus took on human form in Mary’s womb. The Annunciation is observed with prayers, liturgies, and devotions in various Christian denominations worldwide.

This is usually celebrated with the Feast of the Annunciation, which is approximately when the northern vernal equinox was nine full months before Christmas Day, which is the official birthday of Jesus.

Interesting Facts

• The word annunciation refers to the Latin word to announce. In this story, it is to announce the birth of Jesus.
• This day honors God’s entrance into the human world through Jesus and also Mary’s willingness to accept God’s command to become his mother.
• It’s celebrated exactly nine months before Christmas. This timing reflects the Christian belief in the Incarnation, marking the moment the Angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive and become the mother of Jesus.