The Annunciation in the Orthodox Church
Gerald Largent
“Behold the Handmaid of the Lord”: The Mystery of the Annunciation
On March 25, we celebrate the Annunciation—the beginning of our salvation. The Archangel Gabriel announces to the Virgin Mary that she will bear the Son of God. Her response reveals perfect humility and obedience. “Behold the handmaid of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” Through her free “yes,” the Son of God becomes man.
The Fathers contrast Eve and Mary: through disobedience came death, but through Mary’s obedience comes life. In her, mankind offers its answer to God.
Mary’s answer to Gabriel
This feast reminds us that salvation involves cooperation with divine grace. Just as the Birthgiver-of-God received Christ, we are called to receive Him in our hearts. During Great Lent, we prepare ourselves through prayer, fasting, and humility to become dwelling places of God.
Her example calls us to trust, surrender, and faithful obedience.
Originally published in the March 22, 2026 St. Panteleimon Orthodox Christian Outreach devotional.