Joachim

Saint Joachim, whose story is primarily recounted in the Protoevangelium of James (an apocryphal text from the 2nd century), is the father of the Virgin Mary and the husband of Saint Anne. He is venerated as the grandfather of Jesus Christ. Originally from Nazareth or Bethlehem according to traditions, Joachim and Anne were a pious and righteous couple, but afflicted by long-term infertility, which at the time was considered a divine disgrace. Their deep faith and incessant prayers were finally answered. According to the narrative, after being rejected at the Temple because of his lack of offspring, Joachim retreated into the desert to pray and fast for forty days. During this time, Anne also prayed fervently. Both received a visit from an angel announcing that they would conceive a child who would be blessed among all generations. They met at the Golden Gate in Jerusalem, where their embrace symbolizes Mary's Immaculate Conception by her parents. Mary was born from their union, a divine gift in response to their perseverance and devotion. Saint Joachim is celebrated for his piety, perseverance, and his fundamental role in the lineage of Jesus.