25 March – The Annunciation of the Virgin Mary

25 March – The Annunciation of the Virgin Mary

What do the Orthodox Christians celebrate?

The Orthodox Christians celebrate the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary. Archangel Gabriel visited Mary in Nazareth, telling her not to fear. She would become the mother of the Christ. Messiah would be born by her through a virgin birth.

How did the Vingin Mary react to Archangel Gabriel?

Mary accepted, saying,

“I am the handmaid of the Lord, let it be done according to your word”

Despite her first fear, Θεοτόκος, replied with faith and submission. She found favor with God.

The importance of the Day

This event highlights the God’s Will on the human’s nature.

This day signifies the beginning of the salvation story.

Virgin Mary consented the God’s decision.

Customs

What do the Greeks eat this day?

On March 25, the Orthodox Christians eat a specific fish, bakaliaros, although fish is not forbidden during the Holy Lent before Easter. This religious celebration marks an exception for fish and oil. Bakaliaros is the salted cod, which used to be cheap fish in the past. It is accompanied with a simple sauce, skordalia. Skoralia is a garlic dip that most Greeks enjoy eating on March, 25.

Who celebrates on 25, March?

Evaggelos, Vaggelis, Evaggelia, Vaggelio have their name day.

Ηappy nameday to Vaggelis and Evaggelia!

“Χρόνια Πολλά” to Vaggelis and Evaggelia anywhere in Greece!

Λεξιλόγιο – Vocabulary

1/ η Θεοτόκος = the Virgin Mary

2/ η πίστη = faith

3/ γιορτάζω = to celebrate

4/ ο Αρχάγγελος = Anchngel

5/ η νηστεία = lent