A special divine service will be held in the churches of the Russian Orthodox Church: an all-night vigil for the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos

On October 13, all churches of the Russian Orthodox Church will host a special festive divine service — an all-night vigil in honor of the Feast of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos. This is one of the most beloved autumn holidays among believers, associated with the memory of the miraculous appearance of the Virgin Mary, who spread her veil over the worshippers.

How will the all-night vigil for the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos begin?

An all—night vigil is not just an evening service. This is a divine service that combines Vespers, matins and additional festive prayers and lasts for several hours. The beginning is usually around 18:00-19:00, but the exact time depends on the specific temple.

With the first bells in the temple, the lamps are lit, the air is filled with the smell of incense. The priests come out in festive blue vestments — it is this color that symbolizes the Mother of God. Great Vespers begins: the 103rd Psalm sounds, followed by the stichera of the feast, glorifying the Mother of God.

After that, litiya is performed, a special part of the service with prayers for peace, for the welfare of the people, and for the protection of the country. Bread, wine, wheat and oil are consecrated in the altar, which is then anointed by the parishioners.

This is followed by singing and magnification, solemn hymns in which the faithful turn to the Most Holy Theotokos with a request for intercession. The service ends with the reading of morning prayers and the transition to the festive liturgy, which will take place on the morning of October 14.

At the end of the liturgy, many churches will host a prayer service and a procession, as well as the reading of the Akathist to the Mother of God.

Why is the all-night vigil for the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos important

The history of the holiday dates back to the 10th century. According to legend, during a night service in the Blachernae Church in Constantinople, Saints Andrew and Epiphanius saw the Mother of God surrounded by angels and saints. She spread her veil over the worshippers, a sign of intercession and mercy.

Since then, this day has been a symbol of hope and protection. In the popular consciousness, the Veil is the time when the Mother of God "covers the earth with snow and people with mercy." It is no coincidence that matchmaking and marriages began in Russia with the Protection of the Veil: it was believed that the family would be stronger under its protection.

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Today, the meaning is the same: coming to the service means asking for protection for yourself, your family, home and country. As the priests say, "not to pray for the Veil is like passing by a Mother with outstretched hands."

What you need to know before visiting the church for the all-night vigil on the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos

It is customary for women to cover their heads and choose modest clothes. Men should not come in tracksuits or with hats. Candles can be placed at the entrance, and health and peace notes can be submitted.

If you want to confess or receive communion in the morning, you should do it in advance, as many parishes accept confession before the service begins.

Pay special attention to the inner mood.: This is not just a beautiful ritual, but a prayerful experience. It is better to arrive a little earlier in order to calmly take a seat, say a prayer and prepare.

What should I do if I fail to attend the all-night vigil on the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos?

Not everyone will be able to spend the evening in the temple — some work, some live far away, some have small children. But even in this case, the holiday can be met with dignity.

— Watch the broadcast: many cathedrals are broadcasting live services, including the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow and the cathedrals of the regions.

— Pray at home: read the troparion and Kontakion of the Intercession, ask the Mother of God for intercession and peace.

— Attend the morning liturgy: if the evening is missed, you can come in the morning — the celebration lasts all day.

— Submit notes in advance: in many churches, this can be done online or at a church store in advance.

The main thing is not a formal presence, but prayer and inner involvement.

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The atmosphere of the feast of the All-night Vigil for the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos

Churches are especially beautiful for the Intercession: blue banners, icons in blue and white flowers, and a sea of candles. The chants sound solemn, but soft. For many believers, this is the moment of a personal meeting with the Mother of God, when you feel peace, peace and gratitude especially keenly.

Intercession services traditionally attract more parishioners than usual. In rural churches, this is one of the most anticipated days of the year — after the vigil, believers often stay for tea, sing spiritual songs, and discuss the holiday.