Synaxis of the Holy Archangel Gabriel.
Day 24 of the Great Fast. Leave-taking of the Annunciation. Abstention from meat and foods that contain these ingredients.
Sixth Hour – Isaiah 26:21-27:9: Presanctified – Genesis 9:18-10:1; Proverbs 12:23-13:10.
Read Proverbs 12:23-13:10
The day following the Feast of the Annunciation, the Church celebrates the Synaxis of the Holy Archangel Gabriel. Gabriel, whose name means “God is my strength,” holds a unique role in salvation history as a divine messenger entrusted with communicating God’s mysteries to humanity. It was Gabriel who appeared to Mary, proclaiming: “Rejoice, full of grace, the Lord is with you!” (Luke 1:28). With this greeting, Gabriel conveyed not merely words, but the living presence of God’s grace and the revelation of the Incarnation.
Gabriel’s mission underscores the nature of angels as servants and messengers, illuminating God’s truth. St. John Chrysostom beautifully reflects on their mission, saying, “Angels are entrusted with bringing to mankind not merely words, but revelations of the divine mercy and goodness of God.” Gabriel’s message to Mary was precisely this—a revelation of divine mercy that transformed human history.
St. Gregory the Great reminds us, “The angels reveal God’s will; they come not to glorify themselves, but to communicate the divine mystery clearly and humbly.” Gabriel models perfect obedience and humility, qualities essential for anyone entrusted with the message of God.
Reflecting on Gabriel’s role, we too are called to become faithful messengers of the Gospel. As Christians, our vocation involves sharing the Good News humbly, clearly, and joyfully, mirroring Gabriel’s obedience. By doing so, we actively participate in God’s continuous revelation of mercy and salvation to the world.