Conception of the Theotokos by St Anna

Conception of the Theotokos by St. Anna Feast Day and Greek Name Day

The Conception of the Theotokos by St. Anna is honored in the Orthodox Christian Church as the celebration of the miraculous conception of the Virgin Mary by her parents, Saints Joachim and Anna. This feast day is celebrated on December 9, and on this day people named Anna, Anne, Annie, Ann, Annette, Anita, Anitsa, and Anoula, among other variations, celebrate their Greek name day.

What the Conception of the Theotokos Commemorates

The feast of the Conception of the Theotokos by St. Anna commemorates the moment when St. Anna, after many years of childlessness, conceived the Virgin Mary.

According to Orthodox Christian tradition, Joachim and Anna had prayed faithfully for a child. Their prayers were eventually answered, and the birth of Mary became an important event in the preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ.

The Parents of the Virgin Mary

Saints Joachim and Anna are honored as the parents of the Theotokos, meaning “Bearer of God.”

Their story reflects themes of faith, patience, and trust in God. Even after years without children, they remained devoted to prayer and eventually received the blessing of Mary.

The Beginning of the Story of the Theotokos

The conception of Mary marks the beginning of the story that would eventually lead to the Nativity of Jesus Christ.

For this reason, the feast highlights the role of Mary in Christian history and the preparation for the coming of the Savior.

Greek Name Day for Anna

Because the Conception of the Theotokos by St. Anna is commemorated on December 9, this date is also the Greek name day for:

Anna

Anne

Annie

Ann

Annette

Anita

Anitsa

Anoula

In Greek culture, celebrating a name day is often just as important as celebrating a birthday. Friends and family commonly offer well wishes or visits to honor the person whose name is being celebrated.

When the Conception of the Theotokos Is Celebrated

The feast of the Conception of the Theotokos by St. Anna is observed each year on December 9 in the Greek Orthodox Church. The day commemorates the conception of the Virgin Mary and honors the faith and devotion of her parents, Saints Joachim and Anna.