The Day of the Annunciation of the Most Holy Theotokos is one of the twelve major (twelve) Orthodox church holidays. It is dedicated to the event described in the Gospel of Luke. On this day, the Archangel Gabriel came to the Virgin Mary to tell her about the impending birth of Jesus Christ.
A bit of history
Christians began to celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation of the Most Holy Theotokos in ancient times. It was already known about it in the third century. The ancient Christians called this holiday differently: the Conception of Christ, the Beginning of Atonement, the Annunciation of Christ, the Annunciation of the Angel to Mary. The modern name for this holiday was given only in the seventh century.
The name of this church holiday literally means "good, good news."
When the Annunciation is celebrated
The Annunciation of the Most Holy Theotokos belongs to the category of non-passing holidays, that is, it has a constant date - April 7 (March 25, old style). This date was finally set in the middle of the seventh century. It is exactly nine months away from the date of the celebration of the Nativity of Christ, which falls on January 7th. Consequently, in 2015, the Annunciation will be celebrated on April 7.
As the Annunciation is celebrated
On the eve of the holiday, the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom is read in Orthodox churches. This is usually done in the evening service. This is followed by an all-night vigil, which begins with Great Compline. This is what the post-supper service is called.
All-night vigil is a combination of three services at once - Great Compline, Matins and the First Hour.
On the day of the holiday, during the festive service, a special rite of breaking of bread is performed, after which the blessed gracious wine and bread are distributed to the parishioners.
In pre-revolutionary Russia, a very touching ritual took place - on the Annunciation, people released birds from their nets and cages. This custom was revived again in 1995. Now it is performed in many Russian churches. So, on this day, after the festive Liturgy in the Annunciation Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin, the patriarch, together with the children and the clergy, releases the white doves. They symbolize the Holy Spirit.
Annunciation of the Most Holy Theotokos: what can and cannot be done
Doing any housework on this holiday is considered a great sin. It is forbidden to sew, knit, weave, work in the garden. Also, on this day, you can not comb your hair, cut your hair and put on clean clothes. According to popular beliefs, you should not lend money for the Annunciation, otherwise you can give your prosperity and happiness along with them. In general, on this day, it is better to refrain from any new business and other undertakings.
Those who adhere to Lent are allowed to include fish and caviar in their diet on this holiday. It is also allowed to drink wine on the Annunciation.
