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“The Divine Mother: Solace of All the Afflicted” (-All Who Mourn), (-All Who Suffer)

This icon features the Mother of God in a majestic pose, donned in royal attire and crowned. Various people burdened by illness and sorrow are seen before her, guided by angels. This icon’s feast day is celebrated on October 24.

On the left are:

1. Saints Peter and Paul (June 29), celebrated on June 29th, are two paramount figures in Christian history. Saint Peter, originally named Simon, was one of the first disciples of Christ and is often referred to as the ‘rock’ on which the Church was built. Known for his strong faith and leadership, Peter is traditionally considered the first Pope of the Catholic Church. Saint Paul, originally named Saul, underwent a dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus and became one of Christianity’s most zealous missionaries. Authoring a significant portion of the New Testament, his writings and teachings have had a profound impact on Christian theology. Their combined contributions to the early Christian Church continue to be celebrated and honored by believers worldwide.
2. Saint Antipas, the Bishop of Pergamum (April 11), is commemorated on April 11th and is recognized as an early Christian martyr. Pergamum, now in modern-day Turkey, was a prominent city of the Roman Empire, known for its staunch paganism. Despite the adverse environment, Antipas stood firm in his faith and steadfastly preached the Christian gospel. Renowned for his piety and spiritual leadership, he led the Christian community amid religious persecution. According to tradition, Antipas was martyred during the reign of Emperor Nero, his steadfast devotion serving as an enduring testament to his faith. His legacy continues to inspire Christian believers to stand for their beliefs even in challenging circumstances.
3. Leontios II, celebrated on May 14th, served as the Patriarch of Jerusalem, a position of significant religious and spiritual influence in the early Christian Church. Guiding the church in Jerusalem, one of Christianity’s holiest cities, Leontios played a vital role in fostering the faith during a time of religious turmoil and uncertainty. Known for his deep devotion, theological wisdom, and compassionate leadership, he contributed significantly to the growth and establishment of the Christian faith in the region. His legacy continues to be honored, and his steadfast commitment serves as a beacon of spiritual resilience and faith for believers.
4. Sophia of Milan, commemorated on September 17th, is an esteemed figure in Christian history. Known for her profound faith and exceptional piety, Sophia was a beacon of Christian virtues in Milan, a major city in Northern Italy. Her life served as a testament to the transformative power of faith, inspiring many to adopt Christian beliefs and practices during a time of substantial religious change. Sophia’s enduring legacy continues to influence believers, reminding them of the strength and solace that faith can provide even in the face of adversities. Her veneration remains an integral part of the Christian tradition in Milan and beyond.
5. Andrew, the Prince of Smolensk, is celebrated on October 27th. As a royal figure in Smolensk, a historic city in western Russia, Prince Andrew was influential both politically and religiously. Despite his royal status, he was renowned for his humility, piety, and strong Christian faith. Prince Andrew used his position to protect and promote the Christian church within his realm, leading by personal example. His devotion to the Christian faith, combined with his leadership, made a lasting impact on the Christian community in Smolensk and continues to inspire believers today. His life serves as a testament to the capacity of faith to influence both personal actions and wider society.
6. Saint Catherine of Alexandria, whose feast day is celebrated on November 24th, is a revered figure in Christian history. According to tradition, Catherine was a princess endowed with exceptional beauty, intellect, and a deep Christian faith. Known for her eloquent defense of Christianity, she is said to have converted many to the faith, including the wife of the Roman Emperor Maxentius. The emperor, enraged by her influence and refusal to renounce her faith, subjected Catherine to various forms of torture, culminating in her martyrdom. Symbolized often with a spiked wheel, which is associated with her martyrdom, Saint Catherine of Alexandria is venerated as a patroness of scholars and philosophers. Her story continues to inspire Christians worldwide, embodying the virtues of faith, courage, and intellectual rigor.

   On the right:

7. Saint Job, honored on May 6th, is a revered figure in Christian tradition. Known for his extraordinary perseverance and unwavering faith, Job is recognized as an exemplar of endurance in the face of immense suffering. The biblical account of Job depicts him as a righteous and prosperous man who endures a series of devastating trials, including the loss of his wealth, health, and even the support of his friends and family. Despite his profound hardships, Job remains steadfast in his trust in God, refusing to curse Him or lose faith. Ultimately, his story serves as a testament to the power of unwavering trust and resilience, inspiring believers to persevere in the face of adversity. Saint Job’s example continues to offer solace and encouragement to those navigating challenging circumstances.
8. Saint Pimen, commemorated on August 27th, is a revered figure in Christian history. Known for his ascetic life and spiritual wisdom, Pimen is celebrated for his deep devotion to God and his dedication to the monastic way of life. As an influential elder and spiritual guide, he offered counsel and guidance to many seeking a path of holiness. Saint Pimen’s teachings emphasized the importance of humility, self-discipline, and prayer. His austere lifestyle and commitment to spiritual growth served as an inspiration to his contemporaries and continue to inspire believers today. Saint Pimen’s legacy is a reminder of the transformative power of a life devoted to God and a shining example of the virtues of simplicity, perseverance, and inner peace.
9. Saint Niphon, the Bishop of Constantia in Cyprus, is honored on December 23rd. Renowned for his spiritual leadership and compassionate nature, Niphon played a vital role in nurturing the Christian community in Cyprus during a time of religious challenges. Known for his wisdom, piety, and dedication to the Gospel, he shepherded his flock with great care and diligence. Saint Niphon was known for his humility and his commitment to serving others, particularly the poor and marginalized. His teachings and writings inspired many to embrace the Christian faith and live virtuous lives. Saint Niphon’s legacy continues to shine as a reminder of the transformative power of faith, love, and selfless service to others.
10. Saint Gelasia of Constantinople, commemorated on August 29th, is a revered figure in Christian history. Born in Constantinople during the 5th century, Gelasia dedicated her life to God through ascetic practices and devotion to prayer. She lived as a hermit, seeking a life of solitude and deep communion with the divine. Known for her unwavering faith and spiritual wisdom, Gelasia became a source of inspiration and guidance for those who sought her counsel. Her example of simplicity, self-discipline, and unwavering faith continues to inspire believers today. Saint Gelasia’s life serves as a reminder of the transformative power of a life dedicated to God and the profound spiritual depth that can be attained through solitude and contemplation.
11. Saint Floros and Lavrus, commemorated on August 18th, are venerated as holy martyrs and ascetics in Christian tradition. Hailing from Byzantium in the 9th century, they embraced a life of monasticism, renouncing worldly desires and dedicating themselves to prayer and contemplation. Despite facing persecution and trials, they remained steadfast in their faith, choosing to endure suffering rather than renounce their beliefs. Their commitment to their spiritual journey and their unwavering devotion to God earned them a reputation for holiness. Saint Floros and Lavrus serve as an inspiration to believers, exemplifying the virtues of self-sacrifice, resilience, and unyielding faith. Their lives and martyrdoms continue to inspire and encourage Christians in their own spiritual journeys today.
12. Saint Eudoxia, known as “the Samaritan,” is commemorated on August 4th in Christian tradition. Born in the 5th century, she led a life marked by conversion and repentance. Formerly known for her immoral lifestyle, Eudoxia experienced a transformative encounter with Christ and dedicated herself to a life of virtue and service. Her commitment to her newfound faith was so profound that she eventually became a nun. Saint Eudoxia exemplifies the power of redemption and the capacity for personal transformation through God’s grace. Her life serves as a reminder of the boundless mercy of God and the potential for change that lies within every individual. Saint Eudoxia continues to inspire believers to turn away from sin, embrace repentance, and pursue a life of holiness.

“The Mother of God: Soothe My Sorrows”

In this representation, the Christ child is nestled on the Mother of God’s left arm. A mirror-inverse rendition of this scene is frequently seen in such icons. Christ clutches an unrolled scroll inscribed with a phrase from the canon of the cross: “Judge just judgment.” She carefully cradles his legs with her right hand while supporting her head with her left. Legend suggests that it was brought to the Nikolaus Church in Moscow by the Cossacks during the reign of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich (Alexis of Russia). The icon’s veneration particularly increased during the plague of 1771. Its feast day is commemorated on January 25.

The Martyrdom of Saint John

Referred to as “John the Baptist” in the West and “the forerunner” in the Orthodox Church, Saint John is commemorated for baptizing Christ and paving the way for Him as mentioned in Luke 1:76. Described in Matthew 3:2, he wore camel’s hair clothing, typically depicted barefoot with a somewhat untamed beard. He was imprisoned for criticizing Herod and Herodias over their illicit marriage (Mat. 14; Luke 3:18). On the icon, he is portrayed in prison, on the verge of beheading. The beheading is shown in three combined scenes: the final strike by the executioner, the falling body, and the handing over of his head to Salome. John, the patron saint of monastic life, is depicted against a backdrop of architectural structures. His martyrdom is peaceful, contrary to the tragic event described in the Gospel of Matthew 14. His remembrance day is August 29.

“Mother of God of Feodor (Feodorovskaya) (- of Theodore)”

The Mother of God is portrayed with the Christ child on her right arm, a pose known as the Umilenie style developed in Byzantium in the 11th century. A distinctive feature of the Feodorovskaya is the Christ child’s bare leg. The icon’s feast days are March 14 and August 16. On August 16, 1239, the miraculous icon of the Mother of God of Feodor was revealed to Prince Vasily of Kostroma during a hunt. It’s named after the church of Saint Theodore Stratelates in Kostroma. On March 14, 1613, Maria Ivanovna blessed her son Mikhaíl Fyodorovich (Michael of Russia) to ascend the throne in front of this icon. The Dormition Cathedral of the Feodorovsky Monastery is situated in Nizhny Novgorod (now Gorky). Among the icons in the Winter Palace of Petersburg’s cathedral was the highly revered Mother of God Feodorovskaya.

Central depiction: The New Testament Trinity. A central theological concept in Christianity, representing the triune nature of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It is derived from the teachings found in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels and the writings of the apostles. The Trinity reveals God’s complex yet unified nature, wherein the Father is the creator, the Son is the incarnation of God in human form (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit is the divine presence that guides, comforts, and empowers believers. The New Testament Trinity signifies the profound relationship within God and serves as a foundation for understanding God’s interaction with humanity. It is a fundamental doctrine in Christianity, shaping the beliefs and worship practices of countless believers throughout history.

A captivating, finely-detailed monumental icon with an intriguing mix of themes.