In Western Christianity, The Annunciation of the Lord, also known as the Feast of the Annunciation or the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary, is the announcement by the angel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive a son by the power of the Holy Spirit to be called Jesus, who would become the salvation of all of mankind. Some theologians suggest that the story of the Annunciation emphasizes the status of women because it is through a woman that the salvation of the world becomes possible.
Although this Feast occurs during Lent - a time of fasting, abstinence, and penance - those restrictions are lifted on this day. The joyousness of the occassion - which marks the beginning of the earthly life of Jesus and thus the redemption of mankind - is often celebrated with a special food or dinner.
This day is also traditionally observed as a Solemnity, which includes reciting the Apostle's Creed and the Gloria.
Here are some ways you can observe this day according to Western Christian tradition:
