Icon of the Mother of God “Troeruchitsa”

On the icon we meet the image of the Most Holy Theotokos, who gently holds on her left hand the Eternal Baby, Jesus Christ. The right hand of the Infant is extended upward, facing the face of the Most Pure Virgin, as if Christ calls us to look at Him, based on Her blessing and care. Before the events of 1917, this sacred image was located in the Kazan Cathedral, walking along Red Square in Moscow, where it was an object of great veneration and worship. But very unfortunate events related to the destruction of the Kazan Cathedral led to the fact that the original icon was lost, and a copy took its place. This copy became famous for its miracles and the blessings that came with it. It has become a symbol of hope and prayer for many believers. The name of the icon, “Education”, in itself carries an important spiritual message. Before this holy image, parents and believers come to ask the Most Holy Theotokos for their children. It is a place where they express their prayers and hopes, and pray for protection and blessing for their children. Requests to the Mother of God include a request for wisdom, understanding, and grace for their descendants. The special significance of this icon is that it reminds us of the importance of spiritual education of children, of caring for and educating them in faith and spirituality. This is the place where parents entrust their children to the mercy of the Mother of God, hoping that she will protect them, grant them wisdom and strength to overcome life’s difficulties. A short prayer before this icon, expressing deep faith and devotion, has also come down to our days:”I commit my baby completely to my Lord Jesus Christ and to You, Most Pure, I pray for heavenly protection.” This prayer reflects the heartfelt desire of parents for the spiritual well-being and protection of their children, and it has a special place in the hearts of many believers. Thus, the icon “Education” calls us not to forget about the importance of spiritual education and prayer for children, and to remain true to hope and faith in God’s mercy and care, which are personified in the image of the Most Holy Theotokos and the Eternal Child.