Visitation (Christian)

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Visitation, from Altarpiece of the Virgin (St Vaast Altarpiece) by Jacques Daret

The Visitation is the visit of the Virgin Mary to Elizabeth as recorded in the Gospel of Luke 1:39-56. It is also the term for a Christian feast day (May 31 or July 2) commemorating this visit.

[edit] Event

Mary, having heard at the Annunciation that Elizabeth was six months pregnant, left her home to visit her. Elizabeth and John the Baptist were inspired by the Holy Spirit at her arrival, and Elizabeth prophesied. Mary pronounced the "Magnificat" and remained with Elizabeth some months.

It is the second Joyful Mystery of the Rosary. Theme: Spiritual Fruit & Love of Neighbor.

[edit] Feast

This feast is of medieval origin. It was kept by the Franciscan Order before 1263 when St. Bonaventure recommended it, and the Francisian chapter adopted it. The Francisian breviary spread it to many churches, but it was only universally adopted in 1389, when Urban VI extended it for the whole Church.

Previously it was celebrated on July 2. Now it is celebrated in the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Church on May 31, between the solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord and the birth of St. John the Baptist, in conformity with the Gospel accounts. Many Anglicans also celebrate the feast on this day, although it remains fixed on July 2 in the Book of Common Prayer.