As scenes of utter chaos and destruction unfold in the Ukraine, the Ukrainian faithful know they can find shelter and comfort in the veil of Mary, particularly under the title of Our Lady of Theotokos, which means “Bearer” or “Mother of God.”
Ukraine particularly has a devotion to Mary’s intercession and protecting veil with the annual celebration Oct. 14 of the “Pokrova,” (protection of Our Lady of Theotokos).
The feast day commemorates the apparition of the Blessed Mother in 911 during one of the sieges of the Church of St. Mary Blachernae in Constantinople. Eastern Orthodox Church tradition states that Mary spread her protective veil over the church’s congregation and the city was rescued.
For her intercession, in 1037 Yaroslav the Wise, Grand Prince of Kyiv, dedicated Ukraine to Mary. She is referred to as “The Queen of Ukraine.”
The word “Pokrova” appears variously as “Holy Protection of the Mother of God,” “the Protectress,” “Festival of the Veil,” “Protecting Veil.”
Through the years, the Ukrainians have kept this devotion alive and referred to it in time of political upheaval and war. She is often depicted in icons with a veil to offer her protection.
Another sign of Mary’s powerful intercession depicted in mosaic art well-known by Ukrainians is Mary the “Virgin Orans.” Mary is shown with her arms depicted in prayer with her arms extended. The mosaic is located in St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. The cathedral, considered one of the city’s most spiritual landmarks, was built in the 11th century. Ukrainians consider it as one of the most sacred symbols of the defending of the country’s people. With the Blessed Mother’s hands extended upwards, this icon is referred to as the “Immovable Wall” or “Indestructible Wall.”
As the war continues, while praying for peace one might find comfort in the Prayers to Theotokos:
Rejoice, Virgin Birthgiver-of-God, Mary, Full of Grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb, for you have given birth to the Saviour of our souls. Amen
It is right, in truth, to call you Blessed, Birthgiver of God, Ever-Blessed, Most Pure and the Mother of our God. More honourable than the cherubim and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim, in virginity you gave birth to God the Word. True Birthgiver-of-God, we magnify you. Amen
Beneath your tender mercy we flee, Birthgiver-of-God. Reject not our prayer in our trouble, but deliver us from harm, Only Pure and Blessed Lady. Amen
Most Glorious Ever-Virgin Mary, Mother of Christ our God, receive our prayer and present it to your Son and our God, that, for your sake, He may save souls. Amen