Celebration of the Cathedral of the Archangel Gabriel (26/07)

The Cathedral of the Archangel Gabriel is celebrated by the Orthodox Church twice a year — the day after the Annunciation (April 8) and July 26.

The Archangel Gabriel was chosen by the Lord in order to give good news to the Virgin Mary, and with Her and all people great joy in the Incarnation of the Son of God. Therefore, the day after the Annunciation, having glorified the Most Pure Virgin, they thank the Lord and honor His Messenger Archangel Gabriel. And the reason for establishing the second day of celebration (July 26) is believed to be the date of consecration in the 17th century in Constantinople of a temple erected in the name of the Holy Archangel.

The name Gabriel means «The Power of God» or «God's stronghold». In the icons, Archangel Gabriel is depicted with a branch of paradise brought by him to the Virgin Mary, or with a luminous lantern in his right hand and a mirror in his left hand.

These days, all the appearances of the Archangel Gabriel are remembered: he inspired Moses when writing the book of Genesis; He announced to the prophet Daniel the fate of the Jewish people; appeared to the righteous Anna with the news of the birth of the Virgin Mary from her; announced to the priest Zechariah the birth of the Forerunner of the Lord; relentlessly stayed with the Mother of God during Her earthly life; appeared to St. Joseph the Betrothed.

In the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus Christ prayed, the Archangel appeared and strengthened Him before suffering. The myrrh-bearing women were the first to hear the good news of the Resurrection of Christ also from the Archangel Gabriel.

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