Church of the Annunciation (Nazareth, Israel)
City:
Nazareth
State, Province, Region, or District:
Northern District, Galilee Region
Country:
Israel
Overview
The Church of the Annunciation is a Catholic church in Nazareth, in northern Israel. It is one of the two claimants to the site of the annunciation in which the angel Gabriel was sent to announce to the Virgin Mary that she would be the mother of Jesus Christ, the Messiah (the other being the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation). It was established over what Catholic tradition holds to be the site of the house of the Virgin Mary.
Geography & Location
Nazareth is about 15 miles (24 km.) southwest of the Sea of Galilee and about 23 miles (37 km.) inland from the Mediterranean Sea.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Nazareth had an estimated population of around 300 during the time of Christ. It was a small farming town where everyone knew each other.
Biblical & Historical References
Nazareth was the home of Joseph and Mary, and the place where the angel Gabriel was sent to announce to the Virgin Mary that she would be the mother of Christ the Messiah (Luke 1:26-38).
Spiritual Lessons and Application
Mary was a righteous person whom God saw would honor and obey Him with the great gift of being the mother of Christ. Are we devoted to God in such a way that He would entrust to us abundant blessings
Places of Interest
Statue of Mary – Her hands are blackened from people touching them so much.