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Theotokos Prodromitissa at Romanian Skete of Mount Athos

The Acheiropoietos Icon of Our Lady Prodromitissa At the Skete of the Holy Forerunner, also known as the Romanian Skete of Mount Athos, which is administratively appertained to the Monastery of Great Lavra, the holy icon of the Theotokos Prodromitissa is located. It is one of the miraculous icons of the Virgin Mary on Mount Athos. The main characteristic of the icon is that it was not created by human hands, that means it is an Acheiropoieton icon, since the form of the Theotokos and Jesus Christ was miraculously imprinted on a piece of wood! The Miracle of the creation Around 1863 AD, the founders of the Romanian Skete, Fathers Niphon and Nektarios, wanted to place an icon of the Virgin Mary in the Skete, as is customary in all monasteries on Mount Athos. So, they went to Iași in Romania and found a devout iconographer, Iordache Nicolau. They asked him to create an icon of the Theotokos followed by prayer and fasting. He accepted the request and began the process with great respect and dedication. At the beginning of the iconography, Iordache tried to paint the garments of the Theotokos and Jesus Christ. Once he completed them, he continued with the holy faces but he was unable to achieve a satisfactory result. Find here: Icon with the Theotokos Prodromitissa. The appearance of the Holy Figures in a miraculous way Disappointed with his work and believing he was unable to complete the task, he covered the iconography with a cloth and locked his workshop. Then, he went to his room to pray and repent. The next day, fully determined, iconographer Iordache went to his workshop and removed the cloth from the icon to begin his work again. As soon as he saw the icon, he was amazed, as it was completed and the divine faces were perfected! Until today, the Acheiropoieton icon of the Virgin Mary remains in the same form. When is the Theotokos Prodromitissa honored After the miraculous event of its creation, the fathers reverently transferred the icon to the Skete of the Holy Forerunner, its intended destination. According to Orthodox tradition, the Acheiropoietos icon of the Virgin Mary performed numerous miracles during its transportation. Today, the icon is located in the Katholikon of the Skete with an oil-candle burning in front of it, on the left side, a short distance from the iconostasis, and continues to perform miracles. It is honored by our Church on July 12th.

Virgin the Joy of All who Sorrow - Miraculous Icon of Russia

How the icon of the Virgin Mary Joy of all was found The holy icon of the Virgin Mary Joy of All or Joy of All Who Sorrow, as it is also known, was miraculously found and saved in a small chapel in the village of Klotski, near Saint Petersburg, Russia. It was the early 19th century when a thunder completely destroyed the chapel, yet the holy icon of the Virgin Mary was miraculously saved. Strangely, coins from the destroyed charitable box adhered around the edge of the icon and remained unharmed until these days. Find here: Icon with Virgin Mary Joy of All. The miraculous event of the icon of our Lady the Joy of All The holy icon, besides its charitable messages, is also associated with a miraculous event. In 1688 AD, the sister of Patriarch Joachim (1674-1690), named Euthymia, who lived in Moscow, suffered for a long time from an incurable disease. Then, during her morning prayer, Euthymia heard a voice telling her: «Euthymia! Go to the Church of the Transfiguration of My Son. There you will find a small icon called 'Joy of All Who Sorrow.' Tell the priest to perform a petition and a blessing with holy water and you will be healed». Euthymia faithfully followed the instructions that were given to her by the Virgin Mary and was immediately healed. The event of Euthymia’s healing took place on October 24, 1688. When is the celebration of the miracle Every year on October 24, the commemoration of the miracle, that occurred in Saint Petersburg in 1688 by the Virgin Mary, is celebrated, according to the old calendar followed by the Russian Orthodox.

Theotokos Sumela in Trebizond - Orthodox Monastery on Mount Melas

Why is Theotokos called ‘Sumela’ The miraculous icon of the Theotokos Soumela dates back centuries and, according to Orthodox tradition, was carved on wood by the Evangelist Luke. Its name derives from Mount Melas and the Pontic dialect term in Greek ‘sou’. The Pontians used to say, «We will go up to the Theotokos of ‘Sou’ Melas». In 386 AD, on Mount Melas in Trebizond, at an altitude of 1063 meters, the monastery of the Theotokos Soumela was founded following the miraculous revelation of the holy icon. The monastery was built by two Athenian monks, Barnabas and Sophronius. The combination of the holy icon of our Lady Soumela with the holy water possessing healing properties, was a focal point of the monastery and a magnet for pilgrims. There were many miraculous interventions by our Lady Soumela to protect the monastery from enemy invasions and destruction. What the icon of the Theotokos Soumela depicts The holy icon of our Lady Soumela is largely damaged due to the declines it has suffered, to the point where the depicted figures are no longer distinguishable. Only the outlines of the Theotokos and the young Jesus Christ are barely discernible. Above the figures of the Ever-Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ, the inscriptions IC. XC. MP. ΘΥ. H COYMELHTHCA (Jesus Christ Mother of God, the Soumela) can be distinguished. Below the inscriptions, the crown on the head of the Virgin Mary appears to be held by two angels. Finally, the icon is enclosed in a silver-gilt case from 1700 AD, adorned with images, inscriptions, and precious stones. The Destruction of the Monastery and the Hiding of the Icon Unfortunately, in 1922 AD, the monastery was completely destroyed following the raid and attack by the Young Turks and Kemalists. As a result, the Greeks of Pontus and Asia Minor left their ancestral lands and were permanently uprooted. Before their uprooting, the monks managed to hide the holy icon of the Virgin Mary Soumela in the chapel of Saint Barbara. Along with the icon, they hid a priceless Cross containing holy wood from Manuel III, as well as a handwritten Gospel by Saint Christopher. Find here: Icons with the Theotokos Soumela The Return of the Icon of the Theotokos Soumela to Greece For approximately 10 years, the icon remained buried in the lands of Trebizond. In 1931 AD, one of the last monks of the monastery at that time, Hieromonk Ambrosios Soumeliotis, encouraged by Prime Minister Eleftherios Venizelos, traveled to Pontus with the purpose of retrieving the sacred relics and bringing them back to Greece. Through diplomatic efforts, Eleftherios Venizelos managed to return the sacred relics to Greece, which remain symbols of utmost religious significance to this day. For approximately 20 years, the relics were kept in the Byzantine Museum of Athens. The Construction of the Holy Monastery of the Theotokos Soumela In 1951 AD, the construction of the new Holy Monastery of our Lady Soumela began in the region of Kastania on Mount Vermio, in the prefecture of Imathia. It is said that the Pontians wanted the monastery to be built in a place similar to that of Pontus, with serenity and rocky mountains. There, the holy icon of our Virgin Mary Soumela, along with the other holy relics, was finally transferred and remains to this day a focal point for Pontic Hellenism. It is a symbol of faith for the Greeks of Pontus and the entire Orthodox community. When the Theotokos Soumela celebrates Our Lady Soumela celebrates on August 15th every year, on the Dormition of the Theotokos. Christians from all over Greece visit the monastery to venerate the holy icon and to participate in various events held there. Find here: Icons with the Theotokos Soumela

Unfading Rose of the Virgin Mary, the Amaranth Rose

What "Rose the Amaranth" symbolizes The Unfading Rose of the Virgin Mary, the Amaranth Rose also known as the "Rose of the Virgin" or the "Immortal Rose of the Resurrection," or "the Rose of Jericho" symbolizes eternity and incorruptibility, the immortal essence of the soul! The Apostle Paul mentions that «For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing» (2 Corinthians 2:15), meaning Christ is the «Rose the Amaranth» and those who come near to the Lord, experience a heavenly fragrance. How the Amaranth Rose is connected to the Virgin Mary and Christ Jesus Christ offered Himself as a sacrifice for our salvation. He is the Rose of Salvation, the pure, undefiled flower that blossomed in the barren and sinful Earth. Despite humanity's pollution, He came to Earth and remained immaculate. This occurred because He originated from the Ever-Virgin Mary, without the hereditary defilement of the Fall. And the Theotokos is the Amaranth Rose, the unwithering rose. God distinguished and chose her among the multitude of people and sin. God sought to find fragrance and wonderful scent in the world and found it in the face of the Virgin Mary. For this reason, she is called “Rejoice, birth-giver of the aromatic balm of the King of all” , that is the fragrance of Christ. The Virgin Mary is the flower that does not wither and remains spotless and perfectly pure forever. Neither time can wear her down, nor the blasphemies of the impious people. What the icon of the Virgin Mary of Roses depicts The icon of the Virgin Mary of Roses depicts Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus in her arms and with her other hand, holding a rose. At the bottom of the holy icon, there are multiple roses, which are in shades of red and pink. How the icon of the Virgin Mary of Roses was found The way in which the holy icon of our Lady of Roses was found, was miraculous. According to residents in the area of Piraeus, Greece, the icon was discovered between 1890 AD and 1895 AD. It all began when a fisherman, during his fishing, found the holy icon near the cliffs of Piraeus. Once the news spread in the area, a devout family named Katsaros wanted to provide shelter for the protection of the icon. Thus, on their own initiative, they undertook the construction of a private chapel, which they named Theotokos Rose the Amaranth. Find here: Hand Painted Byzantine Icon with the Virgin Mary of Roses. The miracle with the infectious disease During the summer of 1895, an epidemic of smallpox broke out in Piraeus, which had very low recovery rates. This caused great distress among the residents and led them to relocate to other areas to survive. Those who found themselves in the unfortunate position to be affected by this disease, either did not survive or were transferred to the Kantharos Hospital. There, individuals with other infectious diseases, such as pestilence, were also hospitalized. As the number of deaths from the contagious disease increased, the faithful sought their only hope for salvation. They visited the Church of the Virgin Mary of Roses and prayed in front of the holy icon. As days passed, the residents of the area realized that none of them had been infected, nor had the neighboring areas. This news spread and led to a public invitation for the litany of the holy icon. Indeed, a multitude of believers gathered outside the church, praying and entreating for the disease to be removed. And it happened so. Deaths decreased and the disease was eradicated. This was a great miracle of the holy icon of the Virgin Mary of Roses. When our Lady of Roses celebrates The Synaxis of the Virgin Mary of Roses is celebrated on April 3rd every year. Find here: Icon with the Virgin Mary of Roses.

Miraculous Icon: Virgin Mary of Mount Athos

According to orthodox tradition, the Theotokos, accompanied by the Evangelist John and headed towards Corfu with the purpose of visiting Lazarus, found herself near the peninsula of Athos. Due to a great sea storm, they were forced to disembark at the place where the Holy Monastery of Iviron stands today. It is said that the Virgin Mary admired this place so much that she asked her Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to grant it to her as a gift. For this reason, Mount Athos is also known as the 'Garden of the Virgin Mary,' and the Theotokos is regarded as the Lady of the Holy Mountain. Find here: Icons with Virgin Mary of Mount Athos. The words of the Virgin Mary to the two hermits Around 655 to 681 AD, the Theotokos, made her first appearance on Mount Athos to the hermit Saint Peter. Four to five centuries later, the Virgin Mary appeared to the hermit Nicholas, abbot of the Monastery of Great Lavra. The Virgin Mary spoke the following words to the two hermits: «Your dwelling and your rest according to God will not be anywhere else except on Mount Athos, which I received from my Son and God to be my present, in which those who they want to depart from worldly situations, to come to it and work in this orchard, to cultivate virtue, purity of heart and purity of soul, and from now on it will be called by all «Mount Athos». «Mount Athos is called from now on... my Garden.» Find here: Embroidery with Theotokos The promise of the Virgin Mary to the monks The Virgin Mary of Mount Athos, after speaking to the hermits, gave a promise. She assured them that her love would be so great towards them that it would serve as a shelter, a safeguard and protection against all temptations, evil, and dangers. Find here: Hand Carved Wooden Icon Theotokos Eforos. The Virgin Mary Protector of the Athonite monks One of the greatest miracles of the Virgin Mary of Mount Athos On October 3, 1948, in Karyes of Mount Athos, communist insurgents attacked the Military Police and the civil Governor of Mount Athos, Mr. Panagiotakis. On the same day, the insurgents began their attack on the Cell of Prophet Elijah, where the feast of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite was being celebrated. During the Divine Liturgy, 50 monks were present there. Before the end of the Divine Liturgy, the insurgents attacked with firearms, machine guns, and artillery. Unfortunately, one of the mortar shells reached the roof of the Cell. However, through the intervention of Divine Providence and the Virgin Mary, the mortar shell did not explode, resulting in no injuries to those that were present. Find here: Magnet with the Virgin Mary of Athos. The Virgin Mary of Mount Athos: Protector and Shelter of the monks to this day The presence and miracles of the Theotokos were evident on Mount Athos, especially during the time of the German Occupation and the insurgency. Although the trials were quite harsh for the monks and invisible and visible temptations continue to exist even today, they manage to overcome them with the help and protection of the Virgin Mary. Today, the Garden of the Virgin Mary continues its uninterrupted spiritual work, consistently preserving the Faith and the sacred struggle of the monks. Find here: Monastery Leather Belt Virgin Mary Eforos

Lady of the Lilies - Panagia Gravaliotissa in Kefalonia Island

Why the Virgin Mary of the Lilies is called ‘Panagia Gravaliotissa’ The Virgin Mary of the Lilies received the name 'Gravaliotissa' due to the miraculous way in which the holy icon was revealed at the village Pastra of Kefalonia. The miraculous discovery of the icon Around 1702 AD, specifically in early August, preparations for the new harvest began. By order of the local lord, Konte Lianou, all the farmers started to cultivate their vineyards. As the farmers were cutting off the wild weeds with their rakes, known as ‘grava’ on the island, a piece of wood got stuck in one farmer’s rake. In his attempt to take it off, the farmer realized it was an icon of the Virgin Mary! The servant, who was shocked by this event, ran to inform Konte Lianou. Konte Lianou, being very busy with his work and his daughter, who was confined to a wheelchair, ordered the servant to take the icon to the Church of Saint Demetrius. Find here: Icons with Saint Demetrius. The Dream of Konte Lianou with the Virgin Mary That same night, however, Konte Lianou dreamt of the Virgin Mary saying to him, “Why did you take me from my home?”. Without wasting a moment, Konte went to the church, where the holy icon was and brought it to his home. The miracle of the Icon Upon returning home, Konte witnessed a remarkable miracle. When his daughter saw the holy icon of the Virgin Mary, she stood up on her feet and, with slow steps, approached the holy icon to worship it. Find here: Hand Painted Byzantine Icons with the Virgin Mary of Lilies. The miracle that repeats every year After this miracle, Konte decided to build a church in honor of the Virgin Mary at the place, where the holy icon was found. From then until today, every year on the Feast of the Assumption, dry lilies miraculously bloom. Then, the women of the village take the blooming lilies and place them in their homes for a blessing. How the lilies bloom at the church The process leading up to the blooming of the dried lilies begins within the year. The women of the village plant bulbs of lilies both in the churchyard of the Dormition of the Theotokos and in various flowerbeds. In May, the lilies bloom and the women gather them into bouquets, placing them at the holy icon of the Virgin Mary of the Lilies. Over the following days, naturally, the bouquets begin to dry. As soon as August 1st arrives, the Prayers - Paraklesis to the Theotokos commence, and by August 15th, on the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, even the dried lilies come into bloom. Following the Divine Liturgy of the Dormition of the Theotokos, the priest distributes the bouquets with the lilies to all the faithful that are present in the church. On the eve of the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, following the vespers, various cultural events are organized in honor of the Virgin Mary of the Lilies or Gravaliótissa. These events take place in the courtyard of the Holy Monastery of Theotokos and are attended by many faithfuls. Find here: Hand Painted and Silver Byzantine Icons with the Virgin Mary of Lilies.

The Miraculous Icon Virgin Mary of Passion - Amolyntos

The origin of the name of the Virgin Mary The name of the Virgin Mary, ‘Immaculate’, in Greek ‘Amolyntos’, originates from the hymn of the Compline "Spotless, undefiled, immaculate, unstained, pure Virgin, Lady..." composed by Monk Paul of the Holy Monastery of Evergetis in Constantinople. The Virgin Mary is also called "Our Lady of Passion" as she holds Jesus Christ in her arms and the Archangels, Gabriel and Michael, stand on both sides bearing the symbols of the Passion: the Cross, the Lance and the Sponge. Find here: Ιcons with the Virgin Mary of Passion. What the icon of the Virgin Mary of Passion depicts Our Lady of Passion holds Jesus Christ on her left side, with her left hand supporting His bare and kneeling feet. The two Archangels with the symbols of the Passion Jesus Christ holds tightly His mother's hand with both of His hands, gazing towards the Archangel Gabriel. The Archangel Gabriel reveals the main symbols of the Passion: the Cross of His future sacrifice and the Crown of His persiflage. Above the shoulder of the Virgin Mary, the Archangel Michael is depicted holding the Lance, the Sponge, and the Vessel containing gall and vinegar. Find here: Orthodox Icons with Virgin Mary of Passion The inscription from the 15th century In the holy icon of Our Lady of Passion, beneath the Archangel Michael, the title "Amolyntos" is depicted, while beneath the Archangel Gabriel, the inscription from the mid-15th century is noted. “Ο ΤΟ ΧΑΙΡΕ ΠΡΙΝ ΤΗ ΠΑΝΑΓΝΩ ΜΗΝΥΣΑΣ ΣΥΜΒΟΛΑ ΝΥΝ ΤΟΥ ΠΑΘΟΥΣ ΠΡΟΔΕΙΚΝΥΗ - ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ ΔΕ ΘΝΗΤΗΝ ΣΑΡΚΑ ΕΝΔΕΔΥΜΕΝΟΣ ΠΟΤΜΟΝ ΔΕΔΟΙΚΟΣ ΔΕΙΛΙΑ ΤΑΥΤΑ ΒΛΕΠΩΝ”. Who is the creator of the icon It is worth noting that the original icon of Our Lady of Passion is attributed to the great Cretan painter of the 15th century, Andreas Ritzos. The works of Andreas Ritzos are displayed both in Italy and on the island of Patmos in Greece. Where the icon of Our Lady of Passion is located Today, the icon of Our Lady of Passion is exhibited at the Byzantine Museum in Athens. Find here: Hand Painted Byzantine Icon from Mount Athos with the Virgin Mary of Passion.

Lady of Kazan the Black Madonna of Kazan

The icon of Our Lady of Kazan, also known as the Black Virgin of Kazan or Black Madonna of Kazan or the Theotokos of Kazan is a holy icon of the highest religious importance for the Russian Orthodox Church. How Our Lady of Kazan is depicted The holy icon of Our Lady of Kazan depicts the Theotokos standing beside Jesus Christ, turning her head towards Him tenderly. Jesus Christ is depicted standing and blessing. The icon of Our Lady, protection for the city of Kazan According to tradition, Germanus II, Patriarch of Constantinople, offered the holy icon of Our Lady as a gift to the inhabitants of the city of Kazan in the 13th century. With this act gesture, he intended to help the people of Kazan feel the Virgin Mary as support and protection against frequent threats and raids from hostile people. How and when the icon disappeared Around 1438 AD, the city of Kazan was captured by the Tatars. At that time, the holy icon of Our Lady mysteriously disappeared. After the conquering of Kazan, around 1579 AD, a fire broke out in the Kremlin of Kazan, causing its complete destruction. The Muslims of the city interpreted the catastrophic event as a result of the wrath of the Prophet Muhammad. Hostilities soon erupted among the inhabitants, leading to a civil conflict. Find here: Byzantine Icons with our Lady of Kazan. The miracle of the icon's discovery To bring peace and harmony among the inhabitants of the city, the holy icon of Our Lady of Kazan miraculously appeared to a young girl named Matrona. The Theotokos revealed to her the location of the holy icon and the young girl recounted the events to her mother. Subsequently, they informed the bishop of the city, Saint Guria. Following the command of the Virgin Mary, the Bishop found the icon of Our Lady of Kazan buried three feet deep on July 8, 1579. The icon was transported with reverence and the participation of faithful inhabitants of the city to the Church of Saint Nicholas. The final disappearance of the icon of Our Lady of Kazan Since then, the holy icon of Our Lady of Kazan performed countless miracles, starting with the healing of the blind Joseph. However, on November 29, 1904, the holy icon disappeared again mysteriously from the Kazan Monastery of the Theotokos. Despite the thieves being found with the precious cover of the icon, the actual icon of Our Lady was never recovered. Even the copy of the icon that was placed in Saint Petersburg disappeared in 1917 on its way to Moscow. Find here: icons with our Lady of Kazan. The disappearance of the sacred icon is an ominous sign The theft and disappearance of the icon of Our Lady of Kazan were interpreted by the Russian Church as an ominous sign. On the other hand, the faithful people connected its disappearance with the Revolution of 1905, Russia's defeat in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905, as well as the October Revolution of 1917. Find here: Prayer Rope with Theotokos of Kazan The copies of the icon of Our Lady of Kazan There are now over 60 copies of the icon of Our Lady of Kazan and some are considered miraculous. One copy of the icon, with significant artistic value, is preserved at the Russian Monastery of Saint Panteleimon on Mount Athos. Another copy of the holy icon, dating back to 1730, was acquired in the 1970s from the pilgrimage of Our Lady in the village of Fátima, Portugal. In 1993, it was transferred to the Vatican. In Greece, copies of the holy icon can be found in the chapel of Saint Xenia of Russia in Mandra, Attica, in the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary in Kallithea, Attica, and in the Catholic Church of the Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary in Keratea. When our Lady of Kazan is celebrated Michael Feodorovich, the first Tsar of the Romanov dynasty, established two celebrations in honor of the holy icon of the Theotokos of Kazan. The first feast is on July 8th and is associated with the finding of the icon. The second feast is on October 22nd and commemorates the national holiday honoring the liberation of the Russians from the Poles. To this day, the holy icon of Our Lady of Kazan remains a symbol of peace and protector of all Russians. Find here: silver pendant with Virgin Mary of Kazan

Mother of God the Inexhaustible Chalice

Our Lady, Protector of Those Dependent on Alcohol and Substances The icon of the Virgin Mary known as the «Inexhaustible Cup of Life» became known in the Orthodox world in 1878. It depicts the Mother of God with outstretched arms and Jesus Christ, as infant, standing within the Holy Chalice. How did the icon of the «Inexhaustible Chalice» became known The miraculous icon of Our Lady resided for many years in a province in Russia, but it was not yet known by the name «Inexhaustible Cup of Life». A remarkable event changed the course of this holy icon and revealed its Divine grace. In the Efremovskaya district of the Tula province in Russia, a retired soldier named Stefan, lived there. This man suffered from the vice of drinking alcohol. His dependence on alcohol led him to squander all his possessions and fall into a pitiable condition. However, one night Stefan had an extraordinarily unusual dream that deeply shook him. The sign that led to the icon of Our Lady At one point, a monk with imposing form appeared in his dream and said the following words: «Go to the city of Serpukhov, to the Monastery of Our Lady. There you will find Her icon called the 'Inexhaustible Cup'. Pray in front of it and your body and soul will be cured immediately». However, the man was reluctant and did not heed these words. The following night, the monk appeared again in his sleep insisting that he make the journey to venerate the icon. After the third appearance of the monk, Stefan decided to obey the command and embark on the journey, despite his legs being weak due to paralysis. Thus, with great difficulty because of the condition of his legs, Stefan began his route to the city of Serpukhov. Find here: icons of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Cup of Life». The Unknown Icon of the Virgin Mary When he arrived at the «Monastery of Vladychny», he asked to venerate the icon of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Cup», as he had been commanded. To his great surprise, however, no one knew this icon of the Virgin Mary by that name. Then, one of the monks mentioned that the icon that Stefan was seeking, might be the one depicting the Virgin Mary with Jesus Christ inside the Holy Grail. This icon was placed in the shrine of the corridor that was leading from the Temple to the sacristy. Everyone was amazed when they read the inscription "The Inexhaustible Cup" on the back of the icon. After this event, something even more remarkable happened. Stefan recognized the monk, who appeared to him in his dream, in the person of one of the two founders of the Monastery, Saint Barlaam. The Healing from the Vice of Alcoholism Stefan, who until then had been paralyzed and addicted to alcohol, returned from Serpukhov completely healed! Moreover, he no longer had any inclination towards the harmful habit of drunkenness. The miraculous healing of Stefan from alcohol became the reason that more and more people from distant places came to worship the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, the Inexhaustible Cup of Life. What the Virgin Mary "The Inexhaustible Cup" protects After this miracle, a large number of people that were facing problems of addiction to alcohol, smoking, or hallucinogens, prayed to the holy icon of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Chalice». The faithful sought healing from their addictions and expressed their gratitude to the Theotokos. Due to the countless miracles associated with the cure of addicted individuals, the miraculous icon of the Ever-Virgin Mary is considered a patron and helper of those who are dependent on alcohol and substances in general. Find here: Maktro with the Inexhaustible Chalice The disappearance of the icon "The Inexhaustible Cup" In 1919, the monastery of the Virgin Mary in the city of Serpukhov was closed by the Communists and the entire complex, including the temples, changed its use. At that time, the holy icon of the Theotokos was relocated and placed in the Cathedral of Saint. Nicholas in Serpukhov. During the years 1928-1930, there was an attempt to revive the celebration of the miraculous icon of the Theotokos, which had been interrupted due to persecutions. Following the demand of the Christians, the Metropolitan of the city, named Emmanuel, blessed 8 copies of the icon. Around 1929, however, the atheists managed to close the Cathedral of St. Nicholas and everything inside was burned on the banks of the Nara River. Both the icon of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Cup» and its blessed copies disappeared, causing all worship ceremonies in honor of this specific icon to cease. When the Inexhaustible Cup of Life celebrates In 1990, Archimandrite Joseph restored the destroyed Visotsky Monastery in Serpukhov. Gradually, devotion and honor toward the holy icon of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Cup of Life» began to revive. The Virgin Mary is honored on May 5th and worship ceremonies in her honor continue to be held at the Monastery to this day.

Virgin Mary of Consolation - Great Byzantine Church in Arta

The Virgin Mary of Consolation is the most important and renowned Byzantine church in the prefecture of Arta, Epirus, Greece. It was built in the 13th century by Nikephoros I Komnenos Doukas, during the peak of the Despotate of Epirus. Architectural Innovation and Byzantine art The church is dedicated to the Annunciation of the Theotokos, and evidence show that in the 16th century, it served as the catholikon of a women's monastery. Additionally, a distinguishing feature of the church, which renders it a masterpiece of Byzantine art, is its' dome that is like hanging from the sky. To this day, it maintains its uniqueness and innovation, while it impresses and astonishes with its rich interior, which consists of ornate sculptures, frescoes and mosaics. The Miraculous Icon of Panagia Parigoritissa Within the church resides the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary of Consolation (Parigoritissa in Greek). It is placed in a wooden shrine on the iconostasis of the church and serves as the principal worshiping icon in the sanctuary. Find here: icon with Panagia of Consolation. The holy icon of the Theotokos of Consolation is a variation of the Eleousa icon type. It combines elements from the Virgin Eleousa, such as the reversed foot of Jesus Christ and the restrained melancholy of the Virgin Mary of Passion of Jesus Christ.

Our Lady of the Vine - Protector of Sick Children

The Holy Monastery of Simonos Petra maintains a historic dependency on the island of Lemnos, in the village of Propouli, since the 14th century. Τhis monastery dependency is dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, known as the Virgin of the Vine. In earlier times, the Athonite Dependency of the Virgin of the Vine was an independent monastery. In 1798 AD, Patriarch Gerasimos III confirmed with a patriarchal sigillion (is the patriarchal and synodical mandate concerning various ecclesiastical affairs) that the dependency belongs to the Simonopetra Monastery. When the chapel of our Lady of the Vine was built In the year 1706 AD, the Monk of Simonos Petra, Agapios built the chapel of the Holy Dependency. Actually, the dedicatory plaque remains preserved in the exonarthex of the church, bearing the inscription: "ERECTED... BY THE VENERABLE MONK AGAPIOS... IN THE YEAR 1706." From the Dependency of the Vine, a part of the church has been preserved, primarily its eastern side, due to the various damges that it had undergone over time. The ruins of the Dependency of the Theotokos of the Vine served as a residence for the monks and workers. Within the ruins of the dependency lies the church of Saint Mary Magdalene, who is considered a co-founder of the Holy Monastery of Simonopetra. She is depicted in an icon alongside Saint Simon the Myrrh-scented, the founder of the Monastery. The Rare Garment of the Virgin of the Vine In the chapel of the Holy Dependency, the miraculous icon of our Lady of the Vine is preserved, dating back to around 1700 AD. The Theotokos of the Vine is depicted wearing a white garment instead of the typical red attire, a remarkably rare occurrence that symbolizes purity. The residents of the island recognize the miracles that were performed by the Virgin Mary through her white veil and show reverence to her as the Virgin of their land. Find here: icon of our Lady of the Vine. Our Lady of the Vine, protector of sick children The Virgin Mary of the Vine is particularly beloved by all inhabitants of the island. She has performed many miracles, which are affirmed by the island's residents to this day. She protects the entire world, focusing on young children and adults that are facing health issues and other difficulties. When the Theotokos of the Vine is celebrated Our Lady of the Vine is honored on the Dormition of the Theotokos, on August 15th. Every year, a great festival is organized at the small church in Lemnos and a multitude of Christians from all around the world visit it on that day.

Virgin Kykkou - Images from the Monastery in Cyprus

The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary of Kykkos is the work of the Evangelist Luke and stands as one of the paramount pilgrimages of Cyprus and the entire Orthodoxy. How the Virgin Mary of Kykkos took her name The name of the Virgin of Kykkos derives from the Kykkos Monastery, to which she belongs today. The Patriarchal Stavropegic Monastery is situated on the western side of the Troodos mountain range, 18 kilometers from Mount Olympus, at an elevation of 1200 meters. The Kykkos Monastery serves as the "Residence" of the Virgin Mary of Kykkotissa, whose presence is felt through her numerous miracles. The story behind the miraculous icon of the Virgin of Kykkos According to tradition, around 1100 AD the Byzantine Commander of Cyprus, Ruler Manuel Boutoumites or Butumites (Greek: Μανουὴλ Βουτουμίτης, fl. 1086–1112) went for hunting but was lost in the Troodos forests. After wandering for a long time, he met an old hermit, named Isaiah. The hermit who shunned everything worldly, practiced strictly in unceasing prayer and did not allow anyone to spoil his contact with the Lord, even if he was the local ruler. This attitude of Isaias seemed disrespectful to Manuel Voutomitis, as a result of which he severely punished him. The return to Cyprus and the illness Then, Boutoumites found his way and returned to Nicosia, where he fell severely ill. Therefore, he considered that his illness was a result of the punishment to the old ascetic Isaiah and ordered his servants to find him, so that he could ask for his forgiveness. When they led him in front of him, Boutoumites apologized with humility to the elderly monk. Then, in response, Isaiah prayed for the lord's healing. Soon, Boutoumites felt better and promised to Isaiah that he would give him whatever he would ask for. Isaiah asked as a favor that the Theotokos icon of the Evangelist Luke be transferred from Constantinople to Cyprus. Find here icons of the Evangelist Luke. The Byzantine governor hesitated, fearing it would be impossible to convince the emperor of Byzantium Alexios Komninos to grant the Holy icon of Theotokos that was kept in the palace. However, Boutoumites departed for Constantinople with the old hermit. Upon meeting King Alexios, they requested the icon of the Virgin of Kykkos, but he firmly refused. After this event, the governor’s only daughter fell severely ill with the same illness that Boutoumites was affected. The hermit Isaiah, after a fervent request from the emperor, healed his daughter. In light of this event, King Alexios decided to donate the sacred icon of the Virgin of Kykkos, yet his hesitations prevented him once again. At that point, Boutoumites and Isaiah explained to the emperor that it was God's will to bring the Holy Icon to the Troodos Mountains. He considered this apostolic icon to be a great heirloom, thus it was unbearable for him to part with it. Only when he was hit by the same sickness, he realized that it was a divine commandment to give the icon. In fact, he not only handed over the holy icon, but also gave the money needed to build the monastery, in which the icon was placed. How the icon of the Virgin Mary was transferred to Cyprus miraculously The hermit Isaiah, with great pride and joy, carried the icon of the Virgin of Kykkos to Cyprus and reached the Troodos mountains, together with the excited crowd of Christians who accompanied him. It is said that in this miraculous event of the transfer of the holy icon, nature participated itself. Bent pine trees and washed-up shells were among the manifestations of nature's reception of the icon of the Virgin Mary of Kykkos. The Kykkos Monastery in Cyprus At the same time, the Boutoumites arrived on the island and handed over to Isaiah the imperial chrysobulls (golden bulls), which proclaimed the Monastery to Stavropegic. The maintenance of the Monastery would be made by the financial support of the villages of Peristerona, Milon and Milikouri. The earliest existing historical record of Kykkos is a document of 1136 and relates to the purchase of the bible by the abbot Daniel of that time. The rest of the information about the first years of the monastery's life and the Byzantine period are derived from references to later texts. Although the testimonies are indirect, they bear witness to the significant influence of the Monastery on the spiritual life of the region. A characteristic example is the iconography based on the Virgin of Kykkos, which is preserved to this day in Sinai and Southern Italy.