The Protection of the Theotokos: Vision at Blachernae in 911

The post describes the feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos, celebrated on October 1. It begins by stating that the Church has always glorified the Theotokos as the protector and defender of the Christian people, interceding for sinners and asking God's mercy upon the world. Her help has been shown countless times to individuals and nations, in peace and war, in monasteries and deserts, and in crowded cities.

The feast commemorates a specific event from the year 911 during the reign of Emperor Leo the Wise. An all-night vigil was held in the Church of the Theotokos at Blachernae in Constantinople. The church was filled with people. At the back stood Saint Andrew the Fool-for-Christ with his disciple Epiphanius.

During the night, the Most Holy Theotokos appeared above the people, holding her omophorion spread out in her hands as though covering the faithful. She was clothed in heavenly beauty, shining with indescribable light, surrounded by apostles, saints, martyrs, and virgins. Seeing this vision, Saint Andrew pointed to her and asked Epiphanius: "Do you see, brother, the Queen and Lady of all, praying for the whole world?"

Epiphanius answered: "I see, and I am amazed." The feast reminds the faithful that the Theotokos has not abandoned them. She covers, protects, comforts, and prays for all who call upon her in trouble, sorrow, and need. The post ends with the invocation: Most Holy Theotokos, save us.