Saint Anne was the daughter of the priest Matthan, a descendant of Aaron. Her husband, Saint Joachim, came from the tribe of Judah and the royal house of King David. The couple lived in Nazareth, were deeply devout, and continually offered gifts to the Temple. Nevertheless, despite their advanced age and constant prayers, they remained childless.
In those times, childlessness was regarded as a punishment from God. Therefore, as a result, they were often excluded by society and kept on its margins. During a great feast, the high priest refused to accept Joachim's offering, considering him deprived of the Lord's grace. Filled with sorrow, Joachim withdrew into the wilderness, where he remained for forty days, fasting and praying. Meanwhile, Saint Anne, with tears in her eyes, implored God and vowed to dedicate to Him the child. An angel of the Lord appeared to both of them and announced that they would have a daughter. Her name would be Mary and through her grace all nations would be blessed.
Saint Anne conceived and gave birth to the Virgin Mary. Until the age of three, the child was raised in her parents' home. Afterwards, she was solemnly led to the Temple, where she remained until she came of age.
