The Vladimir Mother of God

August 26th
Troparion of the Icon (Tone 4)
Today the city of Moscow is radiant for it receives the sunbeam of thy wonderworking icon, O Lady. As we greet it we pray to thee and cry: O wonderful Mother of God, pray to Christ our God Who was incarnate of thee that this city and all cities and countries be kept safe from all enemy assaults and that our souls may be saved, for He is merciful.

Known in Greek as Eleousa and in Slavonic as Oumilenie, this icon is also called the Virgin of Tenderness or of Mercy. The relationship between Mother and Child is expressed with stunning force: taking refuge in her, He touches her chin with one hand and presses his cheek against hers. Her pensive, sorrowful eyes foresee his Passion and she embraces him with affectionate, maternal protection. The three golden stars which adorn her mantle, one above the forehead and one on each shoulder, signify her virginity before, during, and after giving birth.

This icon was given by the Church in Constantinople to the Russian Church in Kiev c.1131.When Kiev was destroyed by the Golden Horde, it was removed to the city of Vladimir in 1155. In 1395, it was moved to Moscow. It has been repaired and damaged many times, so that you can see the various layers of painting on it.

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