The Annunciation of the Lord

Tomorrow (March 25th) we celebrate the Annunciation of our Lord. The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains to us that, The Annunciation to Mary inaugurates "the fullness oftime," the time of the fulfillment of God's promises and preparations. Mary was invited to conceive him in whom the "whole fullness of deity" would dwell "bodily." The divine response to her question, "How can this be, since I know not man?" was given by the power of the Spirit: "The Holy Spirit will come upon you." (CCC 484)

In the Annunciation, the Archangel Gabriel announced God's plan for Mary to become the Mother of God. Mary questioned the Archangel, "How can this be since I do not know Man?" Then the Archangel responded by saying that the conception of Jesus would be of divine origin; in other words, the Holy Spirit would overshadow her. Mary responded, "Yes, Thy will be done." (By pronouncing her "fiat" at the Annunciation and giving her consent to the Incarnation, Mary was already collaborating with the whole work her Son was to accomplish. She is mother wherever he is Savior and head of the Mystical Body. [CCC 973])


This simple response is a powerful testimony to the perfection of Mary's spiritual life. Indeed, God endowed Mary with many special privileges, graces, and attributes because she was to be the mother of God; however, it was her humility and obedience to the Father that is the hallmark testimony of her faith. Disobedience of Adam and Eve brought sin into this world, and it was the obedience of the new Eve (Mary) and the new Adam (Jesus) that brought about redemption and salvation. This perfection of Mary is an example for any faithful follower of her Son to practice, "Not my will, but Thy will be done."



[1] The New Rosary in Scripture. Edward Sri. Servant
[2] Catechism of the Catholic Church

{The mystery of Christ begins with the Annunciation to Mary on March 25th, and nine months from that date brings us to December 25th!}