Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Resurrection of Jesus is the crowning truth of faith in Christ, fulfilling what God promised to the fathers and standing at the heart of the Paschal mystery with the cross. The New Testament bears witness that it is a real historical event. The empty tomb, while not proof by itself, was an essential sign that led the disciples toward recognizing the Resurrection. Mary Magdalene and the holy women were the first to encounter the Risen One and to bring this message to the apostles; Jesus then appeared to Peter, the Twelve, and many others. Though the disciples were at first saddened, frightened, and slow to believe, their faith in the Resurrection was born, through divine grace, from their direct experience of the risen Jesus. As we reflect together, may we receive this central truth of faith with the witnesses who handed it on.

In the Catechism, we learn that Mary was uniquely prepared by God to be the Mother of the Savior, enriched with grace from her conception to fulfill her divine role. Celebrated as "full of grace," she was redeemed in an extraordinary way through the merits of Christ, remaining free from sin throughout her life. At the Annunciation, Mary exemplified perfect obedience and faith, accepting God's will with the words, "Let it be done to me according to your word." For Catholic families, Mary's example inspires us to embrace God's call with trust and surrender, reminding us of the importance of grace and obedience in our own lives.

The Church is apostolic: she is built on the foundation of the apostles, whom Christ chose and sent to continue his mission. With the help of the Holy Spirit, she keeps and hands on the teaching received from them. Although the apostles were uniquely chosen witnesses of the Resurrection, their pastoral ministry continues through their successors. The bishops, assisted by priests and united with the successor of Peter, teach, sanctify, and guide the Church. As a family, we can give thanks that Christ continues to shepherd his Church through this enduring apostolic ministry; the Catechism teaches that listening to the bishops is listening to Christ.