The Serbian Orthodox Church and its faithful today celebrate the Synaxis of the Holy Archangel abriel and his appearances throughout history.
Archangel Gabriel, the bringer of good news and joy, is one of the seven great seraphim angels who took part in the creation of the world and is closest to the Lord’s throne.
He is considered the messenger of God’s secrets. Since ancient times, the day after the Annunciation has been celebrated in his honor, paying tribute to the one who served the mystery of human salvation.
The image of Angel Gabriel with the Most Holy Theotokos Mary receiving the Annunciation is painted on the royal doors of Orthodox altars. These doors are symbolically opened during the liturgy because this event opened the path to the Kingdom of Heaven.
He is a frequently venerated saint. People consider him the protector of humans and livestock from natural disasters. It is often a vow-related slava (patron saint day). Any work is avoided on this day, except for minor repairs.
The Feast of Saint Archangel Gabriel is celebrated twice a year – today, and on July 26 according to the new calendar, as the Summer Aranđelovdan.
The summer feast was established on Mount Athos in the 9th century in memory of Archangel Gabriel’s appearance in a cell near Koreae, where he inscribed a hymn to the Mother of God with his finger on a stone.
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Source: RTS, Foto: Wikimedia Creative Commons