The word “annuciation” means “announcement." This Wednesday, March 25, Christians will celebrate 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 (Luke 1:26–38).
I learned this morning that the Pope has called for people around the world to celebrate the annunciation by praying the “Our father” together at noon on Annunciation day. (For us protestants, that’s the Lord’s Prayer.) I think it’s an excellent idea.
So set your calendars, reminders on your phones, or whatever else it will take to remind you to stop whatever you’re doing and just say, aloud, with your family, our Lord’s Prayer. Just imagine how powerful that would be for God, hearing all our voices at one time! And imagine how healing it would be for us! It’s a win-win proposition, and remarkably simple!
To prepare, here is a beautiful rendition of the most famous musical setting of the Lord’s Prayer, sung by the amazing soprano, Denyce Graves at the National Cathedral in Washington. The performance was part of a Prayer and Remembrance Day service, a few days after 9/11.
I have known this song since I was a little girl. My dad used to sing it at home, with my mom accompanying him. It was written in 1935 and has been transposed to every key, accompaniment for piano, organ, orchestra. A true classic.
soli deo gloria!