Mother of God of Kazan | Kazanskaya

The religious icon depicting the Mother of God and Jesus is a cherished symbol in the Russian
Orthodox tradition. This particular depiction shows a standing Jesus on the left side of the
Mother of God, with his right hand raised in blessing. The Mother of God tilts her head towards
the child, indicating a tender connection.
The origins of this icon are rooted in a divine revelation to a young girl named Matrona, who
lived in Kazan in the year 1579. The Mother of God appeared to Matrona in a dream, instructing
her to tell the archbishop and city officials to uncover her icon from the earth. The specific
location was revealed to Matrona, but her pleas were initially ignored. Unwavering in her faith,
Matrona and her mother decided to pursue the mission themselves. They began to dig where
Matrona had been shown, and after a time, the ancient icon was found.
Despite having been buried in the earth, the icon was discovered to be in pristine condition, as
if freshly painted. The significance of this miracle was not lost on those who witnessed its
retrieval. The icon was taken to Moscow and eventually placed in the grand Kazan Cathedral in
St. Petersburg in 1811, a structure that was specifically built to showcase the venerated icon.
The Mother of God of Kazan holds a hallowed place in the hearts of Orthodox believers, and is
featured prominently in churches and homes throughout Russia. The icon is a common focal
point for prayers and blessings, particularly for newlyweds seeking to consecrate their union
and families seeking divine guidance. The history of this sacred icon speaks to the enduring
power and relevance of religious tradition in the lives of believers.
Commemoration day: July 8 and October 22