☦️ Today, April 7, the Orthodox observe the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary - the Most Holy Theotokos - remembering the event that marked the beginning of the earthly journey of Jesus Christ.
From the age of three, the Virgin Mary lived in the Jerusalem temple. According to ancient Jewish law, upon reaching the age of 14, temple students were considered adults and had to marry or return to their parents.
The priests offered Mary to choose a worthy husband, but the girl refused, as she decided to preserve her chastity and devote herself to the service of the Lord. Then she was betrothed to righteous Joseph, an 80—year-old widower who was supposed to be the keeper of her vow. Together they settled in Nazareth, continuing to lead a modest and secluded life.
The Gospel of Luke says that a few months after the betrothal, the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary. The heavenly messenger joyfully greeted the girl and informed her that she would become the Mother of the Son of God.