Nativity of the Theotokos

Information about the birth of Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, is not contained in the Holy Scripture. However, the story of the Nativity of the Theotokos is told in great detail in a 2nd century manuscript called the Pro-Gospel or "Proevangelium" of James. Although the teaching of James in this record is not considered official dogma of the Orthodox Church, it is one of the many non-canonical writings which comprise our Holy Tradition. Such knowledge is good and beneficial for our understanding and spiritual edification. Pious believers, then, do well to acquaint themselves with these writings in our Holy Tradition in order to receive the fullness of our treasured Orthodox faith and all that it has to offer. Indeed, the icons that have been written about the Nativity of the Theotokos were based upon these same writings of James, also known as the cousin and brother of Jesus Christ.

We invite you to read first three selections concerning the Pro-Gospel of James, including commentary on the text, then three articles on the Nativity of the Theotokos, from The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, the Orthodox Church in America and the Rev. Thomas Hopko.

Protoevangelium of James from Monachos.net
The Protevangelion of James
Gospel of the Birth of Mary
Feast of the Nativity of Our Most Holy Lady — Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
The Nativity of our Most Holy Lady the Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary
Nativity of the Theotokos