Icon of Gerontissa: meaning and how the image of the Mother of God helps, texts of prayers

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The miraculous image of the Pantokrator monastery on Mount Athos is the icon of the Mother of God “Gerontissa”. She is also called “Abbess” or “Elderwoman”. The Mother of God is the patroness of older people; children ask before Her face for the health of their parents and healing of terrible illnesses. The sincere prayer of a believer allows one to heal both physical and mental wounds. How to pray to the image, what is the meaning, what does the “Gerontissa” icon help with - you can find out in this article.

Where is the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary located?

Origin story

“Gerontissa” is the name of the icon, which depicts the Virgin Mary praying to the Savior in full growth. This most holy image is also called “Elderwoman” or “Abbess”. The shrine is kept in the Pantokrator Monastery, which is located in Greece on the most holy Mount Athos, on a rocky hill near the sea.

Several miracles are associated with this icon, allowing Christians to consider the image truly miraculous. Even during the construction of the monastery, tools left by workers in one place were found in another in the morning. This happened several times until people realized that it was the Mother of God herself who was showing them the place where they needed to build a monastery.

The monastery itself is dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Lord. Built approximately between the 11th and 14th centuries. As a gift from the Byzantine nobility, Pantocrator received the icon “Gerontissa”, which depicted the Blessed Virgin, spiritually presiding over the monastery. This most holy image patronizes the elderly. There is even a legend according to which the icon once came to the aid of the dying elder abbot. Before his death, the abbot asked the priest to read the divine service and give him communion. However, the clergyman was in no hurry to fulfill the will of the dying man.

Suddenly he heard the voice of the Mother of God herself, coming from the most holy icon from the altar. The Mother of God commanded him to immediately fulfill the abbot's request. The priest read prayers and gave communion to the dying elder, after which he died calmly. Since then, the most holy icon began to be called the patroness of old people, that is, “Gerontissa” or “Gerondissa” (in Greek, the old man is gerondas).

In the 17th century there was a severe famine. The monks decided to leave the monastery. The abbot begged everyone to stay, and he himself prayed to the Immaculate Virgin to save the monks from starvation. A miracle happened. One morning the monks went into the storeroom where there were empty jugs, and saw that oil was pouring from them over the edge. Someone miraculously filled the vessels with oil. Then the monks realized that the Mother of God had listened to their prayers and saved them from hunger. In memory of this joyful event, the icon called “Gerontissa” depicts a jug with oil pouring over the edge.

Another legend says that during the war with the Turks, one Muslim decided to split the holy image into chips. However, the Mother of God stood up for the shrine, and punished the barbarian with blindness. Angry Muslims threw the image into a well located not far from the monastery. The icon was soon forgotten; none of the monks knew where it had disappeared.

The image lay in the well for 80 years. True, before his death the blind man decided to repent and return the icon to the monastery. He asked his relatives to come to Athos and show the monks the place where their shrine lay. Soon the icon was taken out of the well and taken to a place of honor in the temple.

History of "Gerondissa"

It is unknown how the icon came into being, but, according to some assumptions, it was given to the monastery by Alexei I Komnenos, the Byzantine emperor. He is also considered the first builder of this monastery.

Gerontissa - translated from Greek “Elderwoman” or “Abbess”. She received this name after one of the miracles. In the monastery of Pantocrator (Pantocrator), an abbot of advanced years was dying, who stood out for his holiness and his pious life.

Having been granted the revelation of his imminent death, he longed to take communion one last time before his death. He asked the next priest to quickly begin the Divine Liturgy, but the Hieromonk did not listen to the elder’s wishes.

Immediately he heard an authoritative voice from the icon of the Mother of God of Gerontissa, who commanded him to immediately carry out the dying will of his abbot. The elderly rector confessed and after Holy Communion calmly departed to the Lord. The icon was taken from the altar to the temple for veneration by all believers.

Monastery of Pantokrator on St. Mount Athos

The monastery itself stands on the spot where the Mother of God wished it. Initially, the monastery began to be built not far from the current building, on a steep cliff above the Aegean Sea.

The icon and the builders' tools disappeared for several nights, and each time they were found in the same place. The builders, deciding that this was someone’s cruel joke, continued work. But after some time, they realized that it was the Mother of God Herself who was showing them where the monastery should stand.

But the icon was not always at the monastery. During the Saracen raids, one Muslim, while trying to shatter the icon, became blind, and the shrine was thrown into a well by his comrades. Only before his death, 80 years later, the blind blasphemer was admonished about his sin.

He told his associates about this unworthy act and instructed them to go to Athos to reveal to the monks of the monastery the location of the image. The holy face was found and returned to the temple with delight and honor.

The monks were saved not only from fire, but also from hunger by the miraculous help of the Mother of God. In the 17th century There was quite a severe famine, and the exhausted inhabitants began to grumble, and some of them were about to leave the monastery. The abbot persuaded them not to do this and called for more fervent prayer to the Mother of God.

He himself did not stop praying fervently, and soon the Lord showed a miracle: oil flowed from the closet where the empty containers were stored. When the brothers entered the room, they were amazed to see how olive oil did not stop pouring from one vessel.

The meaning of the image of the Virgin Mary

The memory of the multiplication of oil in empty jugs formed the basis of the iconographic image of the Mother of God Gerontissa. There is no God-infant on the icon; the Mother of God is depicted in full height. At the foot, to Her left, stands an earthen vessel, from which oil flows over the edges.

This symbolizes God's inexhaustible mercy and grace. The hands of the Mother of God are directed to the left, the head is slightly inclined towards the vessel of oil.

Icon of the Mother of God Gerontissa

Another representation of the Mother of God is associated with her second discovery. On the icon she is also presented in full height, but instead of a jug, to the left of her, there is a well, from which Muslims help the monks to get the found icon. The jug stands behind the right side of the Virgin.

On the lists, the Mother of God is shown mainly in silver robes, so that her face matches the original as closely as possible. Also common are icons where the Mother of God is dressed in a blue tunic and a cherry maforium, or vice versa. The combination of burgundy and blue colors symbolizes the fusion of Divine and earthly nature.

How does the icon called the “eldress” help?

Elderly monks and church ministers especially often resort to the image of the Mother of God “Elderwoman,” which is why it quickly spread throughout Greece.

In Russia, the first veneration of Gerontissa occurred in the post-Soviet years. Old people prayed for support in enduring old age, children - for the health of their parents.

People turn to the icon of the Mother of God “Gerontissa” with prayer in different situations:

For healing from infertility and assistance during childbirth (it is also called the “female” icon);
For the treatment of the most serious diseases, incl. oncological;
For financial problems;
With difficulties in learning, uncertainty in choosing a future path;
Ask for solutions to problems with work, helps to find a better place;
During difficult emotional experiences, it strengthens one’s faith;

Cases of miraculous help from the Greek face

Many very quickly receive what they ask for, without even having time to finish the prayer, which is perhaps why this icon is also called the “Quick to Hear.”

Elena Nikolaevna from St. Petersburg prayed in front of the image of the Virgin Mary Gerontissa for her son. He had important exams at the institute coming up, and he was not able to fully prepare for them due to work.

After a while, she came to the temple again to thank the intercessor, because... the test ended successfully.

Maria and Sergey from Yekaterinburg were married for more than 3 years, but they could not conceive a child. They had to go through a lot - endless visits to doctors with significant financial costs, disappointment and tears.

Icon of the Mother of God “Elderwoman”

All efforts were in vain. One of my church-going friends advised me to go to church and venerate the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos. Although the couple didn’t really believe in it, they had no one else to turn to. They came to the temple several times, and then they told about the wonderful news - they would have a child.

Evgeniy from Armavir could not find a job for several months. In some places, wages were delayed, and people were not hired for a new position because of their age. Having accidentally entered the temple, he approached the icon of Gerontiss and prayed for a long time. A week later, an old friend of his invited him to work.

Day of Remembrance

The celebration of the icon takes place on April 17 and December 15.

Receiving what they ask for, people begin to believe, changing their life and its values. Often this happens only through sorrow, illness and suffering. But the Queen of Heaven never leaves us in her care.

She takes care of everyone who, with faith, hope and love, honors, venerates her image and gives honor and glory, and does not forget to thank the Most Honest Cherub and the Most Glorious Seraphim without comparison for the consolation that has come.

Olga Timashova

Prayer

O Most Holy Lady Lady Theotokos! Thou art the highest angel and archangel of all, and the most honorable of all creatures: thou art the helper of the offended, the hopeless hope, the poor intercessor, the sad consolation, the hungry nurse, the naked robe, the healing of the sick, the salvation of sinners, the help and intercession of all Christians.

O All-Merciful Lady, Virgin Mary and Lady! By Your mercy, save and have mercy, Your Holiness Orthodox Patriarchs, Your Eminence metropolitans, archbishops and bishops and the entire priestly and monastic rank, and all Orthodox Christians with Your honest protection: and pray, Lady, from You, without the Seed of the incarnate Christ our God, may he gird us with His power from above against our invisible and visible enemies. O All-Merciful Lady Lady Theotokos! Raise us from the depths of sin, and deliver us from famine, destruction, from cowardice and flood, from fire and sword, from the presence of foreigners and internecine warfare, and from sudden death, and from attacks of the enemy, and from corrupting winds, and from deadly plagues , and from all evil. Grant, O Lady, peace and health to Thy servant, all Orthodox Christians, and enlighten their minds and the eyes of their hearts to salvation: and make us, Thy sinful servants, worthy of the Kingdom of Thy Son, Christ our God: for His power is blessed and glorified, with His beginningless Father and with His Most Holy and Good and Life-giving Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Troparion

Troparion, tone 4

Like a bright star, asking for Divine miracles your holy image, O Deliverer, illuminating the rays of your grace and mercy in the night of present sorrows. Grant us, O All-Blessed Virgin, deliverance from troubles, healing of mental and physical ailments, salvation and great mercy.

Kontakion

Kontakion, tone 8

To Thy icon, Most Holy Lady, having flown with faith in poverty, through Thy intercession I was delivered from evil, but as the Mother of Christ God, free us from cruel circumstances, temporary and eternal, and let us call Thee: Rejoice, our Deliverer from all troubles.

Description and meaning of the image in Orthodoxy

The icon depicts the Mother of God in full height. The Mother of God stands with her arms folded in prayer. She stands alone, without the Holy Child. Near her feet there is a jug from which oil overflows. The icon was originally drawn on a board; later the image was updated and covered with a silver chasuble. The Mother of God herself ordered to cover the icon with silver, appearing to the monk in a vision. The chasuble was made in Russia with the money of a wealthy Constantinople lady. The Immaculate Virgin is depicted in a female maforia, decorated with stars, around her head is a luminous golden halo.

Initially, the most holy image was in the altar of the cathedral. Later the shrine was moved to the north-eastern pillar supporting the dome of the temple. Christians believe that "Gerontissa" protects the cathedral from misfortunes. In 1948, indeed, during a fire, the Mother of God sent rain clouds to the monastery, extinguishing the fire.

The icon of “Gerontissa” is prayed to in the most difficult life situations. There are several known cases where the image helped people with cancer and other illnesses to heal. The shrine patronizes the infirm and the elderly. Praying to the icon helps women from infertility and during childbirth. There are copies of this most holy image in many churches in Greece, as well as in some churches in Russia and Ukraine.

Where can I find the lists?

Copies of the most holy icon of Gerontissa are found in many Greek churches. This shrine is also revered in Russia and Ukraine. In honor of the most holy image, two services are held every year (April 17 and December 15).

A copy of this miraculous image is kept in the Pochaev Lavra, located in the village of Pochaev, Ternopil region, in Ukraine. A copy was commissioned by Archbishop Modest Strelbitsky at the end of the 19th century. On the Feast of the Ascension of the Lord, the most holy image was installed in the altar of the Assumption Cathedral on the right side of the throne. Before the service, the clergy asked the blessing of the Mother of God in front of the shrine.

Another copy of the Gerontissa icon is kept in the Novo-Tikhvin Convent in Yekaterinburg. It was painted on Mount Athos in the holy monastery of Pantokrator. In Greece, the image was decorated with a chasuble, and then sent to Russia.

Prayer to the icon of the Mother of God “Gerontissa”

You can read prayer addresses to the Mother of God depicted in the image of “Gerontissa” both within the walls of the temple of God and in the privacy of your own home. Prayer speeches can be spoken out loud or spoken to oneself. The main thing is to find and not lose the “thread” connecting with the Heavenly Forces.

“O Most Holy Lady, my Lady Theotokos, Heavenly Queen! Save and have mercy on me, Your sinful servant, from vain slander, from all misfortune and misfortune and sudden death. Have mercy on me in the hours of the day, in the morning and in the evening, and at all times preserve me: protect me when I stand, when I sit, and when I walk on every path, and when I sleep at night, provide for me, cover and intercede. Protect me, Lady Theotokos, from all my enemies, visible and invisible, and from every evil situation. In every place and at every time, be the Mother of God, an insurmountable wall and a strong defense.

O Most Holy Lady, Lady Virgin Mary! Accept my unworthy prayer, and save me from sudden death, and grant me repentance before the end.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us!

You appear to me, the Guardian of all life, Most Pure One: You deliver me from demons at the hour of death: You give me peace even after death.

We take refuge under Your mercy, O Virgin Mother of God: do not despise our prayers in sorrows, but also deliver us from troubles, O One Pure and Blessed One. Most Holy Theotokos, save us. Amen".

You can address the image of the Most Holy Theotokos “Old Woman” in any language. As the clergy say, the Lord God and the Mother of God listen to the words of the heart, not the tongue. Before the image, you need to read not only petitions, but also say words of gratitude.

If you find an error, please select a piece of text and press Ctrl+Enter.

What do they ask for before the image?

Christians believe in the miraculous power of the icon and in the intercession of the Mother of God. Even after her earthly life, having ascended to heaven, the Immaculate Virgin continues to take care of people. Every Christian can make a request to the Mother of God. She will not only listen, but also help in any situation. People turn to her for help, asking her to show mercy, not to leave them alone with their problems.

Believers pray to the Blessed Virgin when various troubles or misfortunes happen in their lives. Our Lady helps sick people to heal, infertile women to become pregnant, and mothers in labor to give birth without complications. Christians consider the icon “Gerontissa” and the Immaculate Virgin depicted on it to be the intercessor of the elderly. Prayers to the saint help old people overcome serious illnesses, console grief, and ease mental anguish.

Christians believe that by praying to the Gerontissa icon, they can be cured of the most serious illnesses. Thousands of pilgrims come to the image, located on Mount Athos, each with their own request. Christians believe that if you sincerely repent of your sins and pray before the most holy icon, the Mother of God will have mercy on people and give them grace. Believers consider the Gerontissa icon miraculous, so they venerate it and turn to it with requests in sorrows and troubles.

Christians have the right to count on God's mercy. After all, the Mother of God always treats people who sincerely believe in God condescendingly. Sometimes her grace can be so much that it will pour oil over the edge of the jug (as shown in the icon).

In order to earn God's mercy, you need to sincerely pray, keep God's commandments, and repent of your sins. If the requests of sinners remain behind closed doors, you need to humbly accept God’s will, not grumble, and glorify the Savior and the Mother of God for their decision. A person must accept any will of the Almighty with gratitude in his heart, and not complain about anything or be offended.

Help in troubles

“Gerontissa” works miracles, which confirms the great and wonderful works of the Lord, because the Lord fulfills every human prayer through the intercession of His Mother or the saints.

You can ask Mother Gerontissa for help:

about intercession for old people;
about assistance to pupils and students during training and passing exams;
about help in choosing the right path in life;
about getting rid of poverty;
about the granting of long-awaited conception;
about help in difficult childbirth;
about resolving serious mental and spiritual problems;
about healing from illnesses, even the most severe ones (including cancer).

Icon of the Mother of God "Gerontissa"

Prayer text

In honor of the icon, a service is held and specially written prayers are read. You can pray to the most holy image in church or at home. You can buy an icon with the image of the Mother of God “Gerontissa” in a church shop.

Troparion before the icon: the image of the Mother of God is compared to a shining bright star that illuminated people in the darkness of sorrows. Believers ask for donations, to save them from troubles, to cure them of mental and physical illnesses, to save them and to show them great mercy. Kontakion before “Gerontissa”: believers turn with faith to the icon, asking for protection and deliverance from disasters. Christians call the Mother of God the Deliverer of people from all troubles.

In addition to the short troparion and kontakion, a canon dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos is read in front of the Gerontissa icon. It includes several (nine) songs, sedalina, kontakion, and ikos.

The first song glorifies the Blessed Virgin. The Mother of God is asked to save sinners. Christians believe that grace comes from the icon depicting the Mother of God. Christians fall to the image of the Mother of God with tears and ask her for deliverance from troubles. During prayer, Christians say the words “Glory” and “Rejoice.”

In the third song, the Mother of God is asked to strengthen people spiritually. Believers sing to her the words: “Save us” and ask for intercession. People believe that by praying to her, a dying person will be saved from death, if it is the will of the Almighty.

In the sedalena it is sung that the Mother of God carried little Christ in her arms. She is asked to save people from the wrath of the Lord, to take away misfortune and despondency from them, and to save souls.

The fourth song praises the Mother of God, seated on a light cloud. The Mother of God is asked to save people. She has the power to have mercy on people and show miracles of power (heal the sick, revive the youth).

The fifth song sings of the Virgin Mary, who carried the Savior in her womb. She is asked to save people. Believers sincerely believe that you can receive healing from any illness from the icon. The Mother of God is called the giver of joy to those who mourn.

In the sixth song they glorify and applaud the Mother of God, who gave birth to God. She is asked to save people. Christians believe that if an icon is brought to a person who is tormented by a demon, the holy image will deliver the sinner from torment.

The seventh song glorifies the wisdom of the Creator. The Mother of God is asked to save people. They pray to her to perform many mercies. The Mother of God is asked to cool the fire of temptation and give people grace.

In the eighth canto the Lord and the Mother of God are glorified for all ages. They ask the Mother of God to save people from all harm, to save the house and Russia. They pray to the Mother of God to guide people on the righteous path.

In the ninth song the Pure Ever-Virgin is glorified. Believers pray in front of the icon of the Mother of God and ask her to visit the mourners. The virgin is begged to show her bounties to people and save them from troubles. The Mother of God is asked to intercede for the believers before the Almighty, to grant mercy to Christians.

Troparion to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her Icon “Gerontissa”, tone 4

Like a most bright star,/ shining with divine miracles/ your holy image, O Deliverer,/ with the rays of your grace and mercy/ illuminating those in the night of sorrow./ Grant us, O All-good. I am the Virgin,/ deliverance from troubles,/ healing of mental and physical ailments,/ salvation and great mercy.

Translation: Like a bright star, Your holy image, O Deliverer, shone with Divine miracles, illuminating those in the darkness of sorrow with the rays of Your grace and mercy. Therefore, grant us, O All-Blessed Virgin, deliverance from troubles, healing of mental and physical illnesses, salvation and great mercy.

Kontakion to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her Icon “Gerontissa”, tone 8

To Your icon, Most Holy Lady, those who were in need came with faith, through Your intercession they got rid of the evil ones, but as the Mother of Christ God and free us from harsh circumstances, temporary and Dear ones, let us call Ty: Rejoice, our Deliverer from all troubles.

Translation: To Your icon, Most Holy Lady, those in need turned with faith, and through Your protection were delivered from disasters, but as the Mother of Christ God, free us from cruel disasters, temporary and eternal, and let us cry to You: “Rejoice, our Deliverer from all troubles.” .

Canon of the Most Holy Theotokos before the Icon of Gerontissa

Song 1

Irmos: I will open my mouth and be filled with the Spirit, and I will vomit the word to the Queen Mother, and I will appear, brightly triumphant, and I will sing, rejoicing, Those miracles.

Chorus: Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Christ, True Light, grant me enlightenment to write praises to Your Most Holy Mother, and I will sing of Your great compassion towards Your servants.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Woe, O glorified one, Thou hast deigned, O Lady, to glorify Thy name among the poor with the grace of miracles from Thy holy icon, O Deliverer.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

When the inhabitants of the village, despairing of the energy that had destroyed their labors, flowed with tears to Thy image, the Virgin aby improved deliverance and, rejoicing, glorified Thy mercy.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Thy right hand, O Lady, was glorified in the fortress, and the multitude of Thy mercy appeared as the Patroness and Deliverer for the salvation of the needy.

Glory: Hope for Christians, Helper of those in sorrow, pray to Your Son to deliver from all troubles to those who celebrate Your holy image, Deliverer.

And now: Rejoice, inexhaustible wealth of the poor and orphaned Intercessor, Rejoice, who through faith saves Thy name, O Virgin, those who call, Rejoice, driving away despondency and giving joy to the Giver.

Song 3

Irmos: Thy hymns, O Theotokos, Living and Unenvious Source, spiritually establish the face of thyself, and grant crowns of glory in Thy Divine glory.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The Lord kills what He wants, and lives by You, Mother of the Belly, fulfilling the prayers of those who pray to You, raises those sent down to hell and raises them up from the rotting pit of passions by Your omnipotent intercession.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The priest hesitated to admonish the dying youth, and then, for the deceased, I prayed to You, O All-Blessed One, and was overshadowed by Your icon, the Deliverer, and suddenly the child came to life and rose up in health by Your and Your Son with life-giving power.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Life-giving Thy and all-healing source, Bride of God, by knowledge, Thy servants: in Thy image, the Deliverer, Thou grantest life and health, spiritual and physical, and delivers from troubles those who ask for Thy intercession.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

You are the beginning of Christ's miracles, Most Wonderful Virgin, and the same miracles of Your image are glorifying today, O Deliverer, we pray to You: visit Your servants with Your grace, taking away illnesses, evils and eternal death from us.

Glory: Revive my soul, which is mortified by sins, O Lady, as through God I am all-powerful, and deliver the passions that hold me back, so that I may be freed from the captivity of passion, I magnify You with gratitude.

And now: Direct, O Pure One, to the silence of dispassion into the depths of evil, Thy drawn servant, and do not allow me to perish, asking Thy, Deliverer, mercy, for by Thy faith, covered, are saved.

Lord, have mercy (three times). Glory, and now:

Sedalen, voice 3rd

O Most Holy Thy hand, in the image of the One Who bore all, stretch out to Him, the Ever-Virgin Deliverer, and through Thy prayers deliver us from His anger, sin for the sake of the movable, averting the fierce induction and those for the sake of the hardship and despondency that people experience, and save our souls in peace.

Song 4

Irmos: Seated in Glory on the Throne of the Divine on a light cloud, the Divine Jesus came with an Imperishable Hand and called for salvation: glory, O Christ, to Thy power.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having understood the faithfulness of Thy goodness, O Lady, and a joyful trembling appeared in their hearts, when their souls were always troubled by troubles and ailments, Thou, Blessed One, remembered Thy mercy and went forth with Thy icon for the deliverance of Thy people.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having heard about the glorious miracle of Your power, the Mother of God, in the revival of the youth, rushing from various places to Your image, the Deliverer, and, accepting the healing, with joy the greatness of You.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Being merciful, Pure One, who embodied the All-Good Word for our salvation, do not deprive us of Your help and deliverance, who flow with faith to Your miraculous icon, the Deliverer.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

You are the praise of the faithful, Mother of All Sings, You are the ark of shrines, bestowing sanctification, You are the healer of an inexhaustible source and the Deliverer from troubles of those who pray to You before Your holy image.

Glory: From the ailments of the oppressed and the temptations of the fighter, deliver us from these, O Mother of God, and at the hour of exodus do not give up our souls to be overcome by the adversary, so that we may sing of Thy greatness.

And now: Invincible Governor of Christian leaders and armies, Christ-loving army, armed with the shield of faith and the Cross, show them victorious, delivering from all the slander of the enemy.

Song 5

Irmos: Everyone was terrified of Your Divine glory: You, the Unmade Virgin, had in your womb God above all and gave birth to the Lifeless Son, giving peace to all who sing Your praises.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

In the small sorrow of Thy Son's punishment, he became an inhabitant of the weight, and, having been ill, he called upon Thee, Mother of bounties, and through Thee he rose from despair and rejoiced, for the dew of grace, even from Thy icon, brought healing to them.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The grace of Thy icon, the Deliverer, Thy faithful servant, which I always carried with me, Thou didst forbid, O Lady, to hide it from the faithful, so that those who resort to You may be delivered from troubles and illnesses.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

You, O All-Merciful Lady, have sent down liberation from the cruel, who have flown with faith to Your holy image, while hope, protection and indestructible joy have been granted to those who mourn, O God-rejoicing.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Horrified by those in need at the richness of Your gifts, Virgin, in wonders from Your image, I fell down and joyfully cried out: Truly You are the Deliverer from all troubles.

Glory: Joy of Angels and men, free me from the sorrows of this life and deliver me from the troubles of the future and the eternal fire with Your maternal boldness, O All-Blessed One, from the troubles of the Deliverer.

And now: God-chosen Ever-Virgin, in the watered fleece foreseen of ancient times, sprinkle with the dew of grace the parched earth of my heart and make my soul fruitful through good deeds and vision.

Song 6

Irmos: This divine and all-honorable celebration, O God of Wisdom, Mother of God, come, let us clasp our hands, glorifying the God who was born from Her.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Whose mind will comprehend, O Lady, the power of the fortress of Your Son, having brought His people out of the earth, even though they had sealed their faith for eternity, and You, Your Mother, having made a terrible enemy, from the womb of hell delivering those who call upon You.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

A cue tongue will explain the all-conquering power of Your Lady! It is only because the likeness of Your face, like fire, scorches evil spirits, but Your people heal and rejoice, and we reverently kiss it, Your servants.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

What word will depict the greatness of Your miracles, O All-merciful Deliverer from troubles! Just as Thy holy icon was brought to the fiercely tormented demon, the tormentor disappeared, and when healed, he glorified Thy power with a loud voice.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

From the abundance of grace inherent in Your image, the Bride of God, you healed how many people who were possessed and other sick people, how many mourners were joined in joy, who flowed with faith to Your icon.

Glory: Oh, Thy great mercy, the Mother of God, who was pleased by Thy miraculous image to stay with us! What shall we repay Thee for the grace that Thou hast shown us, bestowing upon this temple so much sacred wealth?

And now: Oh, All-Singing Mother, sovereign protection of the world! Protect those who honor You from all troubles, help them against their Christian enemies with Your irresistible power.

Lord, have mercy (three times). Glory, and now:

Kontakion, tone 8

To Your icon, Most Holy Lady, those in need came with faith, through Your intercession you were delivered from the evil ones, but as the Mother of Christ God, free us from cruel circumstances, temporary and eternal, and let us call You: Rejoice, our Deliverer from all troubles.

Ikos

Having gathered in this temple, let us glorify the glorious temple of the Divine, the Most Holy Virgin, before Her image with reverence crying out: Rejoice, village of Divine glory; Rejoice, Lady of Heaven and earth. Rejoice, inexhaustible source of miracles; Rejoice, all-powerful healing of the sick. Rejoice, chaser of demons; Rejoice, revival of the dead. Rejoice, shelter of the abodes of the Mountain; Rejoice, warm intercession of the monks. Rejoice, faithful to the Intercessor; Rejoice, salvation of the Christian race. Rejoice, joy shines upon her; Rejoice, for her sorrow ceases. Rejoice, our Deliverer from all troubles.

Song 7

Irmos: Having not served the creation of God’s wisdom more than the Creator, but having overcome the fiery rebuke manfully, I rejoice, singing: O Lord and God of the fathers, blessed art thou.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Work with us according to the abundance of Thy mercy, Mother of God, and redeem us according to Thy miracles, and let them be ashamed of all power, and let the strength of those who show evil be crushed by Thy servant, who sing about You: God of the fathers, blessed art thou.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

For you, Virgin, the Chaldean cave is a prototype of those who have it, the youths were cooled with dew in the midst of the flame. Likewise, keep us, who have Your image, cool and unburnt in the fires of temptation with the grace of Your Son, so that we may sing to Him: God of the fathers, blessed art thou.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The seven-headed arrows of the seven deadly passions, which are fired by the seven-headed serpent devil who rises up against us, are quenched and crushed by the sevenfold, O Lady, and, like the unharmed youths, we sing: God of the fathers, blessed art thou.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

We mean the seven-illuminated lamp of You, God-gracious Mary, who shines with the seven gifts of the Spirit upon the faithful, giving grace and mercy to those who sing about You, the Giver of good things: God of the fathers, blessed art thou.

Glory: You, Lady, possessor of mercy's inexhaustible treasure and your holy icon, the Deliverer, for the protection of the monastery and for deliverance from troubles, to your Son we sing about you: God of the fathers, blessed art thou.

And now: As the King of the reigning Mother, we pray to Thee, the Lady: be an indestructible fortress for our fatherland and the Christ-loving army, giving them good things, singing: God of the fathers, blessed art thou.

Song 8

Irmos: The pious youths in the cave saved the Nativity of the Theotokos; Then what is formed, now in action, raises up the entire universe to sing to You: Sing to the Lord, O works, and exalt Him to all ages.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Like the three youths, who were kept in the fires, girdles and blessed God, so also faithfully, by You, Blessed One, having been delivered from fire, troubles and illnesses, all things, - I cry out, - Sing to the Lord and exalt Him forever.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Just as you once delivered those who flocked to your image, O Mother of God, from harmful evils, so now do not cease from those and all harm to deliver this monastery, the Mountain, Russia and the Orthodox everywhere, so that we glorify You forever.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Just as you died and were overshadowed by Your icon, O Virgin, you revived us; you also revive us, leading us away from the deadly path and instructing us on the path of the eternal life, so that, saved by You, we extol You forever.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

As You commanded Your servant not to hide from the faithful the grace that flows from Your holy image, O All-merciful Deliverer, pour this out to us, Your servant, so that we glorify You forever.

Glory: As You have healed many, O Lady, from the torment of demons and other ailments, free us from mental and physical illnesses and from all the snares of the enemy, so that we may praise You forever.

And now: Like an Angel, inspire Gideon to defeat the Midianites, inspire, O All-Queen, and those who glorify Thee, overthrowing all the vacillation of the enemies, may we bless Thee forever.

Icon “Gerontissa”: what it helps with, meaning

The Pantocrator Monastery was built in the mid-14th century by the Byzantine Emperor Stratopedarchos Alexios. The emperor's brother, John Primicius, also took part in the construction.

Pantokrator is located on the slope of Mount Athos from the northeast, on a rock washed by the sea. The main feature of this monastery is one icon of “Gerontissa”.

This is an icon of the Mother of God, which is called miraculous; from Greek the name is translated as “Abbess” and in another version “Elderwoman”.

Story

An old legend tells that during the construction of this monastery, which was previously built half a kilometer further, the first miracle happened. One night, all the construction equipment, along with the icon, disappeared.

This loss was found the next morning; everything was at the current location of the temple. A similar incident was repeated several times and people realized that the icon of the Mother of God “Gerontissa” wanted her temple to be built on this rock.

One Saracen, during a raid on this location, wanted to light a cigarette, breaking this icon into small pieces, but for his blasphemy, he immediately went blind. The Saracens decided that they needed to get rid of the icon and threw it into the well.

There she remained for eighty years. The blind barbarian, realizing his terrible sin, just before his death, ordered his servants to return to this place and tell the monastery servants where the long-lost image was located.

The missing item was found and it was solemnly brought into the temple.

What does the “Gerontissa” icon help with?

But this is not the only miracle that the Staritsa icon performed. Those who persistently prayed in front of the image were helped by the icon of the Eldress “Gerontissa”.

She gave divine medicine that helped old, already dying people avoid death, treated various diseases incurable by doctors, Our Lady could (and can) even cure cancer.

It should also be noted how the icon of the Mother of God “Gerontissa” helps a woman, because it can help people with childbirth and eliminate infertility. Therefore, many women from Greece revere her and often come to pray before her.

Also in the Assumption Pochaev Lavra in the altar there is another image of Gerontissa. The second copy of this healing and miraculous icon is located in the Novo-Tikhvin Monastery for women, which is located in Yekaterinburg. This icon was painted on that very Mount Athos.

What is the meaning and symbolism of the “Gerontissa” icon

As said earlier, prayer before the icon of the Mother of God “Gerontissa” helps a woman find a child or receive some kind of help with her health. The miraculous effects of the image on the sick and infirm have also been recorded.

Why are the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Gerontissa” and the prayer before it so blessed? Firstly, the Lord grants mercy through this image, thanks to the intercession of the Mother of God, and, secondly, you need to pay attention to the very content of the image. The image is canonical, but there are many interesting details here.

The old woman is depicted here in full height and without the Infant God and addressed in prayer to the Lord. Actually, the name Staritsa indicates old age, but, in addition to this, the name is status, because in Rus' there has always been a difference between old people and elders. An old man is one who has simply grown old, and an old man is one who has reached maturity.

After Christ ascended, the Mother of God continued to pray to the Lord for people. Image “Gerontissa” The old woman on the icon of the Mother of God represents the Most Pure Virgin praying for all people. Therefore, people turn to the image with a variety of prayers, it helps everyone.

In front of the figure of a woman stands a vessel that overflows with divine grace. The vessel is poured out and thereby symbolizes the mercy of God, which always turns out to be more than what the person asking wants to receive. Thus, if prayer is pure and sincere, then the believer becomes like this vessel, which overflows with grace.