Wednesday of the Third Week of Lent
The Solemnity of the Annunciation should not pass without recalling an interesting event that falls within the octave of this Solemnity. For many parts of Europe prior to the French Revolution, the New Year began on the feast of the Annunciation, a fitting beginning since the dating of years was done in light of the “year of the Lord” Anno Domini which identifies every calendar year. Celebrations marking the New Year and the feast of the Annunciation occurred for eight days after the Annunciation, which included April 1. Persons who continued to insist on the old calendar were called “April Fools.”
Today, those who see the incarnation as a world-changing event and act in light of this event may be considered the fools of the world. For many, the world is perceived as a material reality void of any significance and certainly not requiring any connection to God. And then there are others who see Mary’s yes to God as a true guide and the smartest thing to do.