Saint Joachim, who descended from the tribe of Judah, was the husband of Saint Anne, the daughter of the priest Matthan. The two lived virtuously, glorifying God and observing His commandments. They were unable to have children, something that, at the time, was considered a great disgrace and a form of punishment. Filled with humility and sorrow, Joachim withdrew into the wilderness, where he prayed and fasted, asking God for the gift of a child.
Saint Anne also prayed fervently. One day, upon seeing a nest full of newborn birds, she cried out in grief and despair. At that moment, an angel of the Lord appeared before her and announced the future birth of their daughter, Mary. The saint regained her courage and promised to dedicate the child to the God. The angel also appeared to Joachim, bringing him the same joyful message.
When the two spouses met again, they glorified God for His mercy. Saint Anne conceived Theotokos in her old age. Together, they raised her with care and devotion until the age of three, when they brought her to the Temple, fulfilling their promise.
Saint Joachim passed away at the age of eighty. Saint Anne went to Jerusalem and prayed in the Temple, until she soon departed to the Lord at the age of seventy-nine.
Saints Joachim and Anne are honored as the ancestors of the Mother of God. Their lives stand as an example of faith and devotion to the Lord.
