Today Wednesday 25th March

The Solemnity of the Annunciation.

The Annunciation (from Latin annuntiatio), also referred to as the
Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary,
the Annunciation of Our Lady,
or the Annunciation of the Lord,
is the Christian celebration of the announcement
by the Archangel Gabriel to the Blessed Virgin Mary
that she would conceive and become the mother of Jesus,
the Jewish messiah and Son of God, marking His Incarnation.
Gabriel told Mary to name her son Jesus,
meaning “YHWH (God) is salvation”.

Mary receives the Word in the midst of her confusion and uncertainty.
She says ‘Yes’ to the unexpected that is presented to her,
and opens her heart to the Holy Spirit taking her to unimagined places.
“Be it done unto me, according to your word.”

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee!
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

The Memorare

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary,
that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection,
implored your help or sought your intercession, was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother.
To you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful.
O Mother of the Word incarnate, despise not my petitions,
but, in your mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.