AKATHIST TO THE THEOTOKOS JOY OF ALL WHO SORROW

In light of the current pandemic and the disruption of our life, I thought it useful to send to you the Akathist to the Theotokos “Joy of All Who Sorrow.” (ATTACHED BELOW) This Akathist has been used for centuries in times of suffering, famine, natural disaster, the plague, and other natural and man-made events that have cause pain, anxiety, fear and the disruption of life.

The Holy Church commemorates the icon of the Mother of God, Joy of All Who Sorrow in October. A woman named Euphymia (sister of Patriarch Joachim) received healing from sickness after obeying a voice telling her to find this icon and have the priest celebrate a Molieban (Prayer Service) with the Agiasmos (Blessing of water). This miracle occurred on October 24, 1688.

The Church commemorates the icon of the Mother of God, Joy of All Who Sorrow of St. Petersburg. This icon was glorified in 1888 when the chapel it was located in was struck by lightning. Miraculously, this icon survived despite all else being burned, and twelve coins from the poor box became attached to the icon. On November 19, a third icon of similar name and design is commemorated.

The design of this icon depicts the Theotokos, a most beautiful blossom of heaven, standing among the flowers of paradise. Her Son is visible above her in the clouds, the King of heaven and earth. Along both sides of the icon, framing the Mother of God, are suppliants (us), asking for her intercession. She stands with her arms spread open and her head tilted as if listening. The tenderness and kindness of a loving mother are evident in her face. She stands in paradise and yet among us.
The theology in this icon depicts the Theotokos as also being our mother, who feels our pain. It is believed, by Orthodox Christians, that she intercedes for us, bringing our pain into her Son’s presence. She is praying our prayers with love, bringing our needs into the unique relationship that a mother shares with her children.

She is our joy, because in her love she hears us. Her unceasing intercession and her limitless love help heal our sorrows. The God of compassion will hear our prayers Let us pray this Akathist during these troubled times, trusting in the mercy of God through the intercession of His holy Mather.  Make time to pray this Akathist, trusting that the God of mercy will hear our prayer.

May God protect and keep all of you safe.
Fr. Dimitrios