The Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord: A “Yes” That Changed The World

On March 25, 2026, at the 5:30 p.m. Mass at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica, Cardinal Leo presided at the Holy Mass for the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. This feast recalls the moment the Angel Gabriel announced to the Blessed Virgin Mary that she would bear the Son of God, and her generous “yes” to God’s will, an act that changed the course of human history. In the words of Cardinal Leo: “We cannot overestimate the profound significance of this Feast in our lives.”

Cardinal Leo began with a warm welcome with a reminder that the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord is about celebrating the “instance when the incarnation took place, when our heavenly Father sent His Son into the world in the womb of the Blessed Mother to give Him to us as our Saviour.” In his homily, Cardinal Leo reflected on how Our Lady, the Virgin Mary, responded immediately to God’s call. We heard of Mary’s fiat, her wholehearted “yes” as a model of faith, trust, and openness to God’s plan.

His Eminence also spoke of Saint Augustine who beautifully expressed, “Him who the heavens cannot contain the womb of one woman bore.” This mystery reveals God’s humility and love, choosing to enter our world through Mary.

The angel’s greeting, “Rejoice” reminds us that Mary’s life was filled with Grace. This same joy is offered to us, rooted in hope and trust in God.

We are called to say yes in our own lives – yes to God before all else, yes to forgiveness, service, love, and holiness. Each of our “yeses” allows God to work in us and through us.

The congregation were invited to take part in the renewal of consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church. Consecration to our Blessed Mother is a profound expression of our desire to live our lives fully in Christ and to grow in holiness. United in prayer, we entrust ourselves, our life, works and spiritual life to Mary, asking for her guidance and intercession.