Today, July 26, as our Church celebrates the Memorial of Joachim and Anne, Parents of Mary, our Church invites us to first read and reflect on a passage from the letter of the apostle Paul to the Ephesians (5:21-32) entitled " The sanctity of Christian marriage". Our treasure, which follows, is from a sermon by Saint John Damascene, bishop
Mary's parents were named Anne and Joachim. They are recognized as the parents of the Virgin Mary and the grandparents of Jesus. While not mentioned in the canonical Gospels, they are prominent figures in Catholic tradition and apocryphal writings. According to these traditions, they were a devout couple who, despite initial childlessness, were blessed with the birth of Mary, whom they dedicated to God.
The tradition tells that Saints Anne and Joachim were a wealthy and pious couple who initially struggled with infertility. They prayed fervently for a child, with Joachim even spending time in the wilderness. An angel appeared to both Saints Anne and Joachim, promising them a daughter who would be blessed by God.
Saint Anne gave birth to Mary, who they named in accordance with God's will. When Mary was three years old, they presented her at the Temple in Jerusalem, dedicating her to God's service.
Saints Joachim and Anne are honored as the patron saints of grandparents, and they are also invoked for those seeking help with infertility.
Saint John Damascene, also known as John of Damascus, was a Syrian monk, priest, and theologian who lived from approximately 676 to 749 AD. He is recognized as a Doctor of the Church, a title given to individuals of exceptional sanctity and learning, particularly for their contributions to theology. He is also considered one of the last of the Eastern Church Fathers.
Ephesians is the great Pauline letter about the church. It deals, however, not so much with a congregation in the city of Ephesus in Asia Minor as with the worldwide church, the head of which is Christ, the purpose of which is to be the instrument for making God's plan of salvation known throughout the universe. Yet this ecclesiology is anchored in God's saving love, shown in Jesus Christ, and the whole of redemption is rooted in the plan and accomplishment of the triune God. The language is often that of doxology and prayer, indeed of liturgy and hymns.
The majestic chapters of Ephesians emphasize the unity in the church of Christ that has come about for both Jews and Gentiles within God's household, and indeed the "seven unities" of church, Spirit, hope; one Lord, faith, and baptism; and the one God. Yet the concern is not with the church for its own sake but rather as the means for mission in the world. The gifts Christ gives its members are to lead to growth and renewal. Ethical admonition is not lacking either; all aspects of human life and relationships are illumined by the light of Christ.
