The Memory of the Kaluga Icon of the Mother of God: origins, Miracles and prayerful veneration in 2025

Orthodox believers celebrate on September 15 the day of one of the most famous and revered shrines — the Kaluga Icon of the Mother of God. This image carries a deep spiritual meaning, becoming a symbol of healing and protection during periods of severe trials. Over the centuries, the icon has become famous for its many miracles related to the healing and gracious help of the Mother of God to the people of Kaluga and all those who turn to her with faith. For more information about the history of the miraculous image, see the Izvestia article.

The legend of the appearance and recognition of the Kaluga Icon

The history of the Kaluga icon begins in the middle of the XVIII century in the small village of Tinkov. In the house of the landowner Vasily Kondratyevich Khitrov, two maids found in the attic a canvas depicting the Virgin in a dark monastic robe and holding a book in her hands. By tragic chance, the frivolous Evdokia spat on the holy image and soon became seriously ill, losing her speech and eyesight. At the behest of the Blessed Virgin, who appeared to Evdokia's parents in night visions, a prayer service was served in front of the icon and the girl was sprinkled with holy water, after which she was healed.

This event marked the beginning of the veneration of the Kaluga Icon as miraculous, which soon began to serve as a source of numerous healings and spiritual solace for the inhabitants of the Kaluga region. Later, the icon was moved to the temple of the village of Kaluga, where believers gathered daily for prayers and worship.

Features of iconography and the spiritual significance of the Kaluga Icon

Unlike most icons of the Mother of God, the Kaluga Icon depicts the Mother of God alone, without a baby, which emphasizes her special role as a guardian and intercessor. The dark monastic headdress and the open book in his hands symbolize wisdom, spiritual authoritative guidance and tireless patronage to all who seek help and healing.

This image reflects the unique status of the icon, and the strict but merciful face of the Virgin demonstrates a combination of parental care and the unshakeable power of intercession.

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Miraculous manifestations and help for believers

For more than two hundred years, the Kaluga icon has become famous for many miraculous healings and rescues. Among them is the cessation of the fierce plague epidemic in 1771, witnessed by a religious procession and mass prayers in front of the shrine. Similarly, Kaluga was rid of cholera in 1892.

During the Patriotic War of 1812, the icon helped protect Kaluga land from the invasion of French troops, which made it an object of special veneration and recognition throughout Russia.

In the modern world, there is evidence of new miracles: people reported healing from serious ailments, including the effects of strokes and chronic diseases, after praying to the Kaluga Icon. This confirms that the power and protection of the Mother of God through this holy image are preserved even in times of new trials.

Memorial days, folk rituals and prohibitions

Traditionally, the Kaluga Icon is celebrated three times in the church calendar — on July 31, September 15 and October 25. During the holidays, processions, prayer services and all-night services are held, which attract many pilgrims and residents of Kaluga.

Folk traditions recommend showing special respect on these days — to refrain from quarrels, hard work and empty conversations in order to preserve spiritual purity. The holiday creates a special atmosphere of peace and connection with the Mother of God.

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What prayers should be read on the Day of the Kaluga Icon of the Mother of God?

On September 15, believers recite special prayers that help them tune into deep spiritual communion with the Mother of God and ask her for help and intercession. Among the main prayer texts is the akathist in front of the icon, in which the Mother of God appears as the all—powerful defender of the Kaluga land and all those who turn to her with faith. It contains pleading words for protection from invisible and visible enemies, for healing from mental and physical illnesses, as well as for mercy and strengthening faith.

Kontakions and troparia are also read, which praise the miraculous power of the holy icon and express gratitude for its patronage and numerous healings. In their prayers, believers ask the Mother of God to help preserve the Orthodox faith, free them from temptations and sins, guide them on the path of righteousness and give them strength to endure the trials of life.

Of particular importance is the prayer, which asks for the mercy of the Queen of Heaven: "O Most Holy Virgin, Mother of Christ our God! Hearken to the painful sighing of our hearts, look down upon us from the height of Your saints..." These words express the hope of healing, peace and spiritual renewal.

Such prayer texts are traditionally read during festive divine services, prayer services, as well as in home prayers, when believers turn to the holy image asking for help and protection.