'But what, I shall be asked, is the joy that we celebrate? Plainly it is the rejoicing of the whole of creation at its renewal and restoration. We rejoice for the glad tidings of great joy in that the goodness of God has condescended to look in mercy upon His creation of men. This is our festive rejoicing for the salvation of the whole world. But from whence and from whom do these glad tidings come, and to whom are they sent? They come from heaven - from God; and they are sent to a virgin espoused to a man named Joseph, and the name of the virgin is Mary.'

St. Andrew of Jerusalem, 'Sermon on the Annunciation'