The Archangel Gabriel, from a 13th century fresco in Serbia.
The Holy
Archangel Gabriel has been called the leader of the heavenly hosts; he is associated with numerous happenings in
Holy Scripture, particularly his revelation to the
Theotokos that she would bear Christ. Thus his primary role has been called one of announcing the
salvation of mankind. The Church celebrates the Synaxis of the Archangel Gabriel on
March 26, the day following the Feast of the
Annunciation, and again on
July 13; he is also commemorated together with all the
Archangels on their
Synaxis date,
November 8.
History
The name Gabriel comes from the Hebrew meaning “Man of God.
