Protection of the Theotokos

My sweet babies on the feast of Protection of the Theotokos… just on our way out to liturgy.

As I look at this picture, I see three precious babies that I’ve been entrusted to care for on our journey from earth to heaven. It’s my hope and my desire to protect them from the dangers and the delusions of this world. As a mother, there have been many occasions in which I have needed to protect them — and they have absolutely no idea. That’s the way I wish for it to be. I want them to be safe and secure, knowing who they are as sons and daughters in the kingdom. In many ways, I think of the Mother of our Lord, the Theotokos, in a similar way. She has taken us as her own children and shelters us from dangers that perhaps we aren’t even aware of. This feast day feels close to home this year. I need her protection now more than ever, as I protect those closest to me. She is a powerful intercessor and we know she approaches her son with motherly boldness (remember the story of Jesus turning water into wine…?).

The feast of the Protection of the Theotokos is celebrated on October 1. If you’re unfamiliar with this feast, it originated in 10th century Constantinople, when the Fool-for-Christ St. Andrew was granted a vision of the Theotokos interceding for the world. The Church teaches us that the prayers of the Theotokos blanket us like a veil, protecting us from enemies both seen and unseen. The Greek celebration of this feast is October 28th.

I’m comforted by this reminder today, especially during the hurricanes happening on the east coast. We lost power last night because of the storms, but that is nothing compared to what others are experiencing. Even when the world feels scary, we can be safe under her care and protection- she’s quick to hear! I’m thankful my children love and adore her as well, carrying their “Mary” dolls from @draw.near.designs to church. Elizabeth told me, “I love Mary, she’s so special to me.” 🥺

So today, we're singing, "Most Holy Theotokos save us 🙏”

If you haven't already, be sure to check out my NEW October Orthodox Liturgical Guide Printable