Days of celebration: February 3
In the Vatopedi Monastery on Mount Athos, there is an icon of the Mother of God, called “Slain”. It is located in the church dedicated to Saint Demetrius of Thessalonica, which is adjacent to the cathedral church. The name” Slain ” icon was given thanks to the following event. One of the priests, a deacon from the Vatopedi monastery, was engaged in setting up and preparing for the service in the church. One day he was late for a communal meal, and the refesar expressed his displeasure by reminding him of the importance of being on time. Angry, the deacon flew into a rage and went back to the church. He stood in front of the icon of the Mother of God and said: “Until what time do I have to serve You, Mother of God? I work, I work, but I have nothing, not even a piece of bread! ” With these words, he took a knife and stabbed the side of the icon, piercing its canvas. Blood flowed from the wound, and the icon’s face turned pale. Terrified and remorseful, the deacon fell before the icon, blinded and distraught. His body was trembling, and his soul was in turmoil, like Cain after a murder. The abbot held an all-night vigil, praying for the deacon’s salvation, and three years later received the news of his forgiveness. The deacon came to his senses, repented and repented of his insane act. He settled in front of the “Slain” icon and spent the rest of his life in prayer and penance. Before her death, the Mother of God appeared to the deacon and encouraged him, saying that his bold hand would be condemned at the second coming of Christ. According to the tradition of Mount Athos, three years after his death, his bones were unearthed. An amazing phenomenon struck everyone: all the bones of the penitent priest were light, but the bold hand remained incorruptible and turned black. This hand is kept in the monastery as a testimony to the incredible mercy of the Most Holy Lady, who is ready to forgive everyone for their offenses, whether intentional or accidental.
