On October 14, the church celebrates a holiday that, although not one of the 12 most important, is very popular among the people. It’s the feast of the Intercession. It is associated with many signs and beliefs, but not everyone knows that the history of the celebration began hundreds of years ago, in Constantinople.
In the 8th century the city was besieged by the enemy. The siege was a sea one. The enemy ships blocked the passage to the Golden Horn Bay. Supplies of food and other goods declined sharply. The inhabitants were threatened with famine and ruin. One night at the Wlachern temple, parishioners gathered for the all-night. During the prayer, a local fool named Andrew saw the Most Holy Virgin, together with two Johns: the Forerunner and the Theologian.
Andrew could not believe his eyes: The Mother of God joined them in prayer.
He pushed his disciple, pointing to the celestial group. He also said that he sees the Virgin and the saints. The astonished prayer-goers did not stop watching how, at the end of the service, the Most Holy Virgin took off her veil and stretched it over the worshipers.
After leaving the temple, the parishioners saw that a storm had risen. In the morning, no enemy ships were on the horizon. The storm swept them away. The city was saved.
The Russian prince, Andrei Bogolyubsky, loved this story very much. I read the description of the miracle and could not believe that such an event was not celebrated in Constantinople.
When he defeated the Volga Bulgars, the prince attributed the victory to the patronage of the Virgin, her cover. He built the famous Church of the Intercession-on-Nerli and established a church holiday, which was so beloved by the Orthodox.
Like the ancient Byzantines, we fall under the cover of the Heavenly Virgin when we seek to serve God and give thanks to Him. The veil is a time for reflection and prayer. And also for friendly gatherings, weddings and celebrations.
Days of celebration
October 14
Charity foundHoly Land.
Soul investment!
