# The Fifth Privilege – The Annunciation
*2015-04-27*

> Bill Young reflects on the Annunciation, drawing on Luke 1:28 and 1 Kings 8:10, and offers a prayerful meditation on Mary’s fiat and her role in salvation history.

## Opening Prayer

Good afternoon. This is Bill Young, and welcome to Prayer and Lunch. Let us begin in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Lord, come to my aid; make haste to help me. May the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be with us now and forever. Amen.

## The Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, the only Son, our Lord, conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered on the Cross, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell; on the third day He rose again, ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.

## Reflection on the Annunciation

Today we meditate on the fifth privilege, the Annunciation. “Rejoice, you who are favored! The Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28). The cloud in 1 Kings 8:10 is a sign of God’s presence.
When the Angel Gabriel greeted Mary, she was already immersed in prayer. Her soul shone with adoration, love, and total dedication to God. She offered herself completely, trusting the Word of the Lord, and became the dwelling place of eternal wisdom.

## Prayer to the Blessed Virgin

O chosen one among women, grant us the simplicity of your heart and the generosity of your trust in God’s word.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Mary, most holy Mother of the Trinity, we thank you for the grace bestowed upon you and ask your intercession for all of us. Amen.

## Closing Blessing

May God bless you all. Have a great day.

*Mary’s “yes” to God invites us to trust fully in His divine plan.*