The Conception of Saint Mary
The mother of our virgin Saint Mary Anne was born in Bethlehem in Judaea. She married Joachim. They were righteous people in front of God. Joachim reproached at the Temple for his sterility, retreated into the countryside to pray, while Anne, grieved by his disappearance and by her barrenness, solemnly promised God that, if given a child, she would dedicate it to the Lord’s service. They prayed earnestly asking God to grant them a child. They shared a wealthy and devout life at Nazareth.