The Feast of the Nativity of the Mother of God is a celebration of the Theotokos that fills the Church with joy and gratitude towards God. It reminds us that Mary, the Virgin and Mother of God, was the precious gift from God to her devoted parents, Joachim and Anna. She is not only a blessing to her parents but to all of humanity, as she gave birth to our Savior, Jesus Christ, who redeemed humanity from death and corruption.
On Saturday, September 8/22, 2024, a Divine Liturgy was held at the Theotokos’ Tomb in Gethsemane, officiated by Archbishop Aristovoulos of Madaba. The Liturgy was followed by a reception hosted by Metropolitan Joachim of Helenoupolis.
The following day, September 9/22, 2024, the Liturgy was transferred to the Church dedicated to the Nativity of the Theotokos in Beit Jala. The service was officiated by Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem, along with other clergy members. The congregation gathered to celebrate the birth of the Virgin Mary and share in the joy of the occasion.
The Nativity of the Theotokos is a reminder of God’s providence and the fulfillment of prophecies. Through Mary, the entire world receives the gift of salvation and eternal life through Jesus Christ. The hymns of the Church proclaim the joy that Mary’s birth brings to the world, as she gave birth to the Savior who brings blessings, life, and the annulment of death’s curse.
Mary’s birth fulfills the prophecies of a virgin giving birth to Immanuel, the Prince of Peace. Through Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross, he redeemed humanity from sin and granted everlasting life through his Resurrection. Mary played a crucial role in God’s plan for salvation, as she gave birth to the Savior who overcame death and granted humanity the gift of eternal life. The wonders of the Most Holy Theotokos are beyond comprehension, as she was chosen by God to be loved and made the Mother of His Son. Saint John of Damascus compares her to the old farm of her father Joachim, now transformed into the Church of Christ’s flock. This highlights that the Church is not just an institution, but the body of Christ, led by Jesus Himself.
Saint Paul’s teachings were inspired by the Holy Spirit, not human wisdom. This faith in the Divine power of the Holy Spirit made Mary blessed among all generations. She is the only Mother of God, a name cherished by the Christian faith.
After the Divine Liturgy, a litany was held around the Holy Church, followed by a treat hosted by the Community Council. His Beatitude praised God for His wonderful works, especially manifest in the birth of the Ever-Virgin Mary.
The Virgin Mary serves as a bridge between heaven and earth, leading us to the eternal city. She is the hope and refuge of all Christians, especially in times of turmoil and uncertainty. Let us seek peace through her intercession and acknowledge her as the Theotokos, the one through whom eternal light is transmitted to humanity.
May the Most Holy Theotokos continue to bless us and bring peace to the world. Let us join in prayer and praise for her intercession and mercy upon our souls. Amen.
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