Scripture nowhere describes Mary’s childhood, gives her genealogy, or even names her parents–which is remarkable, given that they are the biological ancestors of Christ! But Scripture focuses instead on Joseph’s ancestry, through which Jesus takes his place as heir to King David. For the sake of the Biblical Saints project, however, I am counting Joachim and Anne as “biblical”.
July 26
The memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, parents of the immaculate Virgin Mary the Mother of God, whose names have been preserved by ancient Christian traditions.
The commemoration of Saint Erastus, who was the treasurer of the city of Corinth and ministered to blessed Paul the Apostle.
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May Holy Mary and all the saints intercede to the Lord for us, that we may merit to be helped and saved by him who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
V. Precious in the sight of the Lord
R. Is the death of his holy ones.
V. May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil, and bring us to everlasting life. And may the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.
R. Amen
[To learn about praying this and other Martyrology entries, see this page.]
