The Archdiocese of Milwaukee recently observed the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, which celebrates Mary saying "yes" in response to the angel Gabriel’s question to carry Jesus in her womb.

“Today, March 25, is the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord,” the archdiocese posted on Facebook last week. “This is a wonderful opportunity to pause in the middle of Lent and give thanks to Mary. So pause, listen and hear the Angel Gabriel greeting Mary, whose awesome response is always 'yes' to God!” 

The Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord celebrates the Incarnation, or God becoming man, according to Franciscan Media. Mary, as Jesus' mother, plays a critical role in the Incarnation, linking Heaven and Earth. Franciscan Media describes Mary as an example of "how an ordinary human being can reflect God in the ordinary circumstances of life.” 

The Gospel reading on the Solemnity of the Annunciation this year came from Luke chapter 1, according to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The passage describes the angel Gabriel appearing before Mary, who was frightened at first. The angel told her not to be afraid, and that she would bear the Son of God and name him Jesus. 

Gabriel also informed her that her cousin Elizabeth, who had previously believed she couldn't have children, was also pregnant. Gabriel told Mary "Nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary responded, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” 

Vatican News describes the Annunciation as Mary's transformation into a Tabernacle for Jesus. Vatican News provides this prayer for the Annunciation: 

"Today is disclosed the myst’ry before the ages; and the Son of God shall become the Son of Man, that by his adoption of the lowest he may grant us the highest. Of old Adam failed to become a God as he desired, so God became Man that Adam might become as God. Wherefore, let creation rejoice, and nature exchange greetings, for the archangel did stand reverently before the Virgin and offered her joy instead of sorrow. Wherefore, O our God, who by thy compassion became man, glory be to thee.”