Akathist before the icon of the Mother of God education. Icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary “Education. Prayer to the icon of the Mother of God “Education”

Icon of the Mother of God "Nurturing"

Story

On the icon, named “Resurrection”, the Mother of God is depicted with the Pre-Eternal Child, sitting - on Her left hand. The right hand of Christ extended upward to the face of the Most Holy Virgin. Until 1917, the holy image was located in the Kazan Cathedral on Red Square, but after it was destroyed niya was lost, now there is a copy of the miraculously created icon, which has become famous throughout Russia for its mi chu-do-tvo-re-ni-i-mi. The name of the icon speaks for itself. In front of her, the families pray for their children, asking the Most Holy God to take them under Her protection, send them reason and fill their hearts with wisdom. Also, a short prayer to this image has survived to this day: “I entrust my everything to the Lord “To Jesus Christ and Thy, Most Pure, Heavenly Creation.”

Prayers

Troparion to the Most Holy Theotokos before the icon of Her “Nurturing”

Brought up in the temple in the Holy of Holies,/ clothed in faith and wisdom and immeasurable virginity,/ Archangel Gabriel brought a kiss from heaven/ and rejoice, rejoice, O Blessed One,// Glory be to you, the Lord is with you.

Translation: Raised in the temple in the Holy of Holies, clothed with faith, wisdom and immeasurable virginity, Gabriel brought the greeting from Heaven: “Hail, O Blessed One, Hail, O Most Glorified One, the Lord is with Thee.”

Prayer to the Most Holy Theotokos before the icon of Her “Nurturing”

Oh, Most Holy Lady Virgin Mary, save and preserve under Your roof my children (their names), all youths, young women and infants, baptized and nameless and carried in their mother’s womb. Cover them with the robe of Your Motherhood, keep them in the fear of God and in obedience to their parents, beseech Your Son and our Lord to grant them what is useful for their salvation. I entrust them to Your maternal supervision, for You are the Divine cover of Your servant. Amen.

Canons and Akathists

First Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos before the “Education” icon

The text was approved by the Holy Synod
Russian Orthodox Church
December 29, 2017 (magazine no. 131)

Kontakion 1

To the chosen Voivode and zealous Educator of the Christian race, having been delivered from the evil ones, let us write thanksgiving to Thy servants, the Mother of God, but as having an invincible power, from all the troubles of our children free, let us call you:

Ikos 1

Send an angel from Heaven to be our child; intercede, O Most Holy One, with Your Son and our God, just as Gabriel the Archangel was sent to You, and let us cry to You:

Rejoice, you who made your parents happy with your birth;

Rejoice, you have asked God with many tears.

Rejoice, prayers and fasting for bright vegetation;

Rejoice, red fruit of pious life.

Rejoice, thou filled with holy obedience from infancy;

Rejoice, you have filled your mother with piety from the breast.

Rejoice, all-bright home of love;

Rejoice, treasure of the Lord's mercies.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 2

Seeing our tearful parental prayer, have mercy, O Lady, on our children, give them Protection and Intercession, so that they may cry out to God in joy: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Let the minds of our children descend, so that we may serve You well, and fill their hearts with Heavenly wisdom, so that they may strive to love this and place it above earthly things, and do not deny our prayer, even if we cry out to You. :

Rejoice, you who spent your childhood at the temple;

Rejoice, you who have ascended into the Holy of Holies.

Rejoice, dedicated to the One God;

Rejoice, you who prayed to Him day and night.

Rejoice, thou who loved purity and chastity from childhood;

Rejoice, you who diligently preserved your humility.

Rejoice, ever-flaming with prayer to God;

Rejoice, praise and joy to the parents of the saints.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 3

May the power of the Most High overshadow your children for the sake of unceasing intercession for them before your Son, and having known your mercy, O Mother of God, to all who flow to you with faith, they will cry to God: Alleluia .

Ikos 3

Having our children from God, we do not want to see them in fiery hell, but those who are written in the book of life. For this sake, Most Pure Virgin, bow to the voice of prayer of us who cry out to You:

Rejoice, Mother of God and the Word;

Rejoice, Greater Holy of Holies.

Rejoice, Educator of the Son of God;

Rejoice, Nurse of the Lord of Hosts.

Rejoice, thou who gave birth to the Savior of the world;

Rejoice, thou who hast increased the Deliverer to the captives.

Rejoice, for you carried a Teacher to the lost;

Rejoice, for Your Son is God and Lord.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 4

Seeing the storm of many different temptations that have multiplied in this world, to You, O Gracious One, we cry out for our children, that they may escape these and cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Hearing Your voice saying to Your Son: “Accept everyone who prays to You and calls on My name for help,” we stretch out our hands in prayer to Your mercy, that you may accept our petition chanting sitsa:

Rejoice, you who deliver our children from despondency and evil;

Rejoice, protecting them from mad joy.

Rejoice, you who strengthen them in bearing the cross;

Rejoice, you who strengthen them in their struggles of piety.

Rejoice, who mercifully preserves them under Your protection;

Rejoice, you who give them health of souls and bodies.

Rejoice, zealous Teacher of chastity;

Rejoice, merciful seeker of the lost.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 5

May the God-bearing morning star, Your Son, the Most Holy Virgin, shine with an unevening light in the hearts of our children, so that they may cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Seeing our diligent prayer, do not turn Your face away from our children, lest they turn away from You, and hear the words of our mouth crying out like this:

Rejoice, thou who teachest our children to have a mind for good things;

Rejoice, thou who hinder them on the path of sin.

Rejoice, you who teach them the right way;

Rejoice, you who protect them from the wickedness of evil people.

Rejoice, you who strengthen them in their suffering;

Rejoice, you who teach us to thank God in everything.

Rejoice, O good Intercessor who has come to Thy Son for our children;

Rejoice, their Supporter before the Creator and God.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 6

The whole Christian world preaches Your constant intercession for those who pray to You. Even now, hear this much-painful parental prayer for our children, whose name is God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

May a ray of grace shine in the souls of our children, and, enlightened by You, they will see the path leading to the eternal life, and will walk along it, keeping under Your almighty protection. For this reason, hear us calling Ti like this:

Rejoice, you who motivate parents to love the good of their children;

Rejoice, child, honor your parents, O Instructor.

Rejoice, you who give reason to those who ask;

Rejoice, thou illuminating the meanings of the faithful.

Rejoice, joy to all who mourn;

Rejoice, softening of evil hearts.

Rejoice, consolation and consolation;

Rejoice, increase in mind.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 7

Although we are our children of eternal salvation, we stand with tears before Your honorable icon, O Lady, may you not despise our prayer and always call Your Son: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

Show new mercy to our children, O Lady, and through the unsearchable destinies of Your Son, draw them under Your gracious protection, so that we earnestly call to You:

Rejoice, education of our children, so that they may be freed from eternal torment;

Rejoice, education of our children, so that they may inherit unceasing bliss.

Rejoice, awakening of the conscience of our children to repentance;

Rejoice, you who feed them with the fruits of charity.

Rejoice, most merciful Comforter of all those who mourn and are burdened;

Rejoice, never-ending Teacher of all the lost and blind.

Rejoice, Judge of the righteous supplication;

Rejoice, many sins have been forgiven.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 8

Wandering in this vale of much sorrow on the sea of many rebellious passions, where will our children find a solid refuge, if not in You, Most Pure One? Travel with them and guide them on the true path, let them call to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

Thou art the merciful Mother of all, the Most Pure Virgin, as Christ the Savior speaks to Thee at His coming Cross: “Behold Thy son,” pointing to the chosen one from His disciples. For this reason we entrust our child into Your hand and in humility we call upon You:

Rejoice, our children, kind-hearted Guide;

Rejoice, merciful Eradicator of thorns of sinful passions.

Rejoice, you who provide solace in the desert of sin;

Rejoice, comforter on the day of sorrow.

Rejoice, traveler to the land of promise;

Rejoice, you who pour out living water for us.

Rejoice, perfect understanding of teachers and teachers;

Rejoice, blessing upon the homes and families of the pious.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 9

Fill the hearts and souls of our children with every good thing, driving away from them the spirit of evil atheism, wickedness and fornication that is in this world. Keep Your servants in purity and chastity, so that they cry out to God in tenderness: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

May the branches of vainness, who lie in response to Your all-powerful intercession, be cast away, O Mother of God, from our children, let them not crawl with their minds into stifling doctrines and turn their hearts to placeless lusts, but look to we, truly crying out:

Rejoice, you who teach our children good morals;

Rejoice, thou who deliverest them from evil habits.

Rejoice, you who send wise mentors to Your servants;

Rejoice, you who turn them away from evil ways.

Rejoice, you who call to heed good teaching;

Rejoice, you who help despise vain fables.

Rejoice, God has favor with sinners;

Rejoice, strong intercession of those who repent before the Lord.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 10

Although Christ God did not call the righteous to save the world, but sinners to repentance. For this reason, let us pray to Your Son for our children, so that even if they go to a far country, they will seek Your Mother’s intercession and return in contrition of heart to the Heavenly Father and call on Him ́: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

An indestructible wall has appeared, O Heavenly Queen, to our children, so that through Your intercession they may escape the serpent’s offering, the red for food, and after that the deadly one, and may be able to keep their hearts pure. For this reason, we cry out to You like this:

Rejoice, thou who deliverest our children from the poisonous potion;

Rejoice, you who save them from soul-destroying drink.

Rejoice, you who preserve them from fornication;

Rejoice, you who teach them chastity.

Rejoice, consumption of all deception;

Rejoice, deliverance from all confusion.

Rejoice, champion of sobriety;

Rejoice, Intercessor of wisdom.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 11

I will sing Your irresistible intercession and bless our children, so that they may find You a strong Helper, and through Your grace they will open their mouths to sing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

Make the life of our children a light-receiving one, so that they may ever burn with love for Your Son and for You, All-Immaculate One, and do not despise us who call You:

Rejoice, dispelling the darkness of temptations;

Rejoice, enlightening the darkness of passions.

Rejoice, thou who teachest to preserve sight;

Rejoice, teacher of guarding feelings.

Rejoice, Mother of unspeakable generosity;

Rejoice, thou who encouragest our children to stand before Thee in reverence.

Rejoice, immutable consolation for them in their sorrow;

Rejoice, all-comforting refuge from the attacks of the evil ones.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 12

Fill the hearts of our children with the ineffable grace of the Holy Spirit, so that we may love only Your Son and God, and You, the Most Blessed Intercessor, so that the King of all, inspired by You, may be called Allila: ́ia.

Ikos 12

Singing Your mercy, in which you have mercy and nourishment on our children, we pray: do not cease to ask Your Son for them, for all things are possible for You, and hear our prayers as follows:

Rejoice, you who lead our children to the Light of truth;

Rejoice, you who affirm them in the lives of Christians.

Rejoice, Thou who gives them the dew of Thy grace;

Rejoice, you who feed them with the milk of truth.

Rejoice, for you help our children to make earthly angels;

Rejoice, for you are making haste for them to become heavenly people.

Rejoice, heirs of the Kingdom of Heaven, showing them;

Rejoice, thou who dost place them in the heavenly abodes.

Rejoice, good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 13

Oh, All-Singing Mother of the Sweetest Jesus! Accept this small prayer for our children into the aroma of the spiritual fragrance and protect them with Your merciful protection. Also, grant them to think, speak and do things that are pleasing to Your Son and You, and send them in this life all that is useful for the salvation of their souls, so that they may sing to God: Alleluia.

This kontakion is read three times, then the 1st ikos and the 1st kontakion.

Prayer

Oh, Most Holy Lady Virgin Mary, most merciful Mother of all people, save and preserve under Your roof our children [names], and all the youths, young women, infants and mothers born in their wombs. Cover them with Your robe, keep them in the fear of God and obedience to their parents, beg our Lord and Your Son to grant them everything that is useful for salvation. We entrust them to Your maternal supervision, for You are the Divine cover of Your servant. Amen.

Akathist to the Second Most Holy Theotokos before the “Education” icon

Kontakion 1

To the chosen Voivode and good Educator of the Christian race, as having been delivered from the evil, let us write thanks to Thee, Thy servants, but, as having an invincible power, free my children from all troubles, and with tears I call to Thee:

Ikos 1

Send an angel from Heaven for my child, intercede, O Most Holy One, with Thy Son and God, just as the mighty guardian Gabriel the Archangel was sent to You, and grant me worthy to cry out to You:

Raise my children to be an earthly Angel; raise my children, so that you may appear to them as a heavenly man.

Raise my children to be Your servant; raise my children, and call them the friend of Your Son.

Raise my children to love You with all their hearts and all their thoughts; raise my children to be perfect, as our Heavenly Father is perfect.

Raise my children to cry to you: Rejoice, full of grace, the Lord is with you; raise my children, always crying: God, be merciful to me, a sinner.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 2

Seeing my motherly prayer for my children, I alone resort to You, take me under Your honest and merciful protection, so that they may cry to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Send your mind to my children, how to serve You well, and fill their hearts with heavenly wisdom. Let me love this one, but despise this earthly one, and do not forbid my mouth to cry out to You like this:

Educate my children, feeding me with the milk of the hidden wisdom of God; raise my children, that they may seek you in all their lives.

Raise my children to be wise like serpents and simple like doves; raise my children to have a mind for good and not to sin.

Raise my children in wisdom against the wiles of the devil; raise my children to wisely organize their lives in the image of the saints.

Raise my children so that they may become like the wise man who founded his house on rocks; raise my children, so that, like wise virgins, they will not extinguish their lamps.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 3

May the power of the Most High overshadow my children for the sake of vigilant intercession before Your Son, for this sake, having known Your Motherly mercy for all who flow to God with faith, let them cry out to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

My children, who have things from God, do not want to see them in eternal torment, but rather those written in the Book of the Belly and inheriting the eternal life. For this reason, Most Pure One, incline Your ear to the prayer of Your servant, who cries:

Educate my children so that they can avoid eternal torment; raise my children so that they may inherit eternal life.

Educate my children, as a guide to their mother-in-law, the path of their life in repentance; raise my children in hope of God’s mercy.

Raise my children through labor to acquire the grace of the Holy Spirit; raise my children, using the effort to delight the Kingdom of Heaven.

Raise my children so that they may be written in the Book of Animals; raise my children, so that at the Last Judgment of Your Son they will be placed at the right hand.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 4

I am in a storm of doubtful thoughts and want to inherit an eternal life with my children, with tears I pray to Thee, Mother of God, and in hope and tenderness of heart I sing to Thy Son: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Hearing Thy voice saying to Thy Son: Whom Thou hast given Me as an inheritance, keep them forever, I stretch out my hand and heart to Thy mercy, that Thy servants may be my children and fulfill my petition like this:

Raise my children, taking me into Your chosen inheritance; raise my children to seek help from You alone.

Raise my children so that they may flee from sins that lead to destruction; raise my children so that they may find the path of repentance.

Raise my children, who enter through the narrow gates of the commandments of Your Son into Jerusalem on high; raise my children, may the doors of heaven be opened to them.

Raise my children so that they may dwell with all the saints; raise my children so that they may receive eternal life.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 5

May the eternal light, that is, Your Son, the Most Holy Virgin, shine in the hearts of my children, so that they may feel the sweetness of heaven while still on earth and cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Seeing my diligent prayer, offered up to Your glory like fragrant incense, do not turn Your face away from my children, lest they turn away from You, but rather hear the words of my mouth crying out to You:

Raise my poor children in spirit, for they are the Kingdom of Heaven; raise my crying children, so that they will be comforted.

Raise your meek children, for they will inherit the earth; raise my children to be hungry and thirsty for righteousness, so that they will be satisfied.

Raise my merciful children, for they will receive mercy; raise my children to be pure in heart, so that they will see God.

Raise up my children to be peacemakers, for these shall be called sons of God; raise my children to strive for righteousness, so that they may inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 6

The whole Christian world preaches Your constant intercession to orphans, widows and mothers, who pray and cry to God for their children: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

May the heavenly light, shining with the rays of God’s grace in the souls of my children, illuminate for them the path leading to the eternal life, and may they follow it, overshadowed by Your almighty protection, to the Church of Your Son, from nowhere I call to You:

Raise my children, enlightening me with the light of Your Son; raise my children, so that in His light they will see the Light and direct their feet towards Him.

Raise my children, may they be the light of the world and may their light shine before people; raise my children, so that everyone who sees their good deeds will glorify the Heavenly Father.

Raise my children to love You and Your Son not only with their minds, but also with their hearts; raise my children to turn the eyes of their hearts to the Creator of all things.

Raise up my children to walk blamelessly in the law of the Lord; raise my child to be a faithful child to the Mother Church.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 7

Desiring eternal salvation for my child, I stand with tears before Your venerable icon, O Lady, may you not despise my prayers and those of me who cry out to Your Son: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

By the wondrous and unfathomable destinies of Your Son, I have drawn my children with a merciful hand under My grace-filled protection, so that with zeal I call to You:

Raise my children, seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness; raise my children, that they may find a priceless pearl and leave the rest.

Raise my children, so that they will not be left in the world except for nourishment; raise my children so that they may be among the few of Your chosen ones.

Raise my children in every place to do the will of the Heavenly Father; raise my children so that they may follow in the footsteps of the Son of God.

Raise my children not to speak, nor to think of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit; raise my children to honor Thee, who gave birth to the Savior of our souls.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 8

Wandering in this earthly and troubled vale, where will my children find joy and consolation, if not in You, Most Pure One? Travel with them and guide them on the true path, let them call to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

You are the merciful Mother of all, O Lady, and I want you to remain such as my child. Behold, I entrust them to You and, remembering Your abundant mercies, in humility I pray to You:

Raise my children in the tenderness of infancy, for such is the Kingdom of God; raise my children, that they may be the least of all, but at the same time great before God.

Raise my children to be merciful, as our Heavenly Father is merciful; raise my children, that they may remember that He has mercy on sinners.

Raise my children lovingly and praying for all of them; raise my children to abhor the enemies of God.

Raise my children to be faithful sons of the earthly Fatherland; raise my children to be trustworthy citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 9

Fulfilling all the goodness of their souls and hearts, drive away from them the spirit of evil-smelling atheism, giving from Your bounties to everyone and everyone according to their needs, let them call to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

The leader of the worldly communications, who speak lies against Your omnipotent intercession, deliver them and look upon me, who truly cry out:

Raise my children to strongly resist the atheist; raise my children to stand firmly against God-hating teachings.

Raise my children not to accept the spirit of the sons of disobedience; raise my children to be watchful and praying, so that they do not fall into temptation.

Raise my children to run away from the joys of this world and the delights of this world; raise my children to avoid evil and do good.

Raise my children to have ears open to hear the voice of God; raise my children to keep the Word of God, making them partakers of the bliss of paradise.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 10

Though to save the world, Your Son descended from Heaven to call not the righteous, but sinners to repentance. For this reason, pray to Your Son for my children, so that those saved by You may cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Be an indestructible wall, Queen of Heaven, my child, so that under Your blessed protection they can do many good deeds, for this reason I call You:

Raise my children in immaculate purity; raise my children to do the will of Your Son.

Raise my children to hate sin and all lawlessness; raise my child to love goodness and every virtue.

Raise my children who serve our God in obedience and chastity; raise my children to turn their hair to Your mercy in troubles.

Raise my children, as You are a quick Helper to all who flow to You with faith; raise my children, for I have no other help, no other hope.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 11

Make my children, O Lady, sing Your irresistible intercession, and with Your grace open their mouths to cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

A light-receiving light from above, melting day and night from love for You and Your Son and neighbor, create their belly and do not despise me, who calls to You:

Raise my children to look at the Cross and the suffering of our Savior; raise my children who have eyes to see those who suffer around them.

Educate my children, that they may remember the words of the apostle: Bear one another’s burdens; raise my children, that they may be like the Good Samaritan.

Raise my children, who labor in the vineyard, as good servants; raise my children in the hope of the coming of Your Son.

Raise my children in unceasing prayer and sobriety; raise my children to stand before You in reverence.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 12

Fill the hearts of my children with the ineffable grace of the Holy Spirit, so that they may love Your Son and our God and You, O Blessed One, may they call the King of all: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing Thy mercy, with whom my children are merciful and nourished, I cry out to Thee, may you not cease to pray to Thy Son for them, for I believe: You are able to do all things, and may you fulfill my prayers like this:

Raise my children to be filled with the Holy Spirit; raise my child Togo with grace, firmly on the right path.

Raise my children, guiding them with the morning star, who is your Son, in the abode of the righteous; raise my children so that they may dwell in the house of the Heavenly Father.

Raise my meek child, silent and trembling at the words of God; raise my children to open their lips only to glorify the goodness of the Creator of all things.

Raise my children to honor their father and mother, according to the commandment; raise my children, that I may also become like a fig tree, bearing good fruit.

Raise, O Lady, my children worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven and create heirs of eternal blessings.

Kontakion 13

Oh, All-Singing Mother of the Sweetest Jesus! Accept this small akathist prayer for my children, take me under Your grace-filled protection, grant them to think, speak and do things that attract You and Your Son, and send them in this timely life everything that instructs them to save their souls, so that they may call to God : Alleluia.

This kontakion is read three times, then the 1st ikos “Angel from Heaven...” and the 1st kontakion “To the Chosen Voivode...”.

Prayer to the Lord Jesus Christ

Sweetest Jesus, God of my heart! You have given me children according to the flesh, but their souls are Your essence, as You redeemed us with Your priceless Blood. For this reason, I beg You, my Sweetest Savior: with Your grace, touch the hearts of my children (names) and my godchildren (names), protect them with Your Divine fear, keep them from bad inclinations and habits, direct them to the path of truth, goodness and beauty, arrange their lives , as You yourself want, and save their souls, in the image of fate. Amen.

Prayer to the Mother of God

O Most Holy Lady Virgin Theotokos, save and preserve under Your roof my children (their names), all youths, young women and infants, baptized and nameless and carried in the womb of their mother. Cover them with the robe of Your Motherhood, keep them in the fear of God and in obedience as a parent, pray to Your Son and our Lord to grant them what is useful for their salvation. I entrust them to Your mother’s supervision, for You are the Divine protection of Your servant. Amen.

Prayer to the Lord Jesus Christ by the Venerable Ambrose of Optina

Lord, You are the only One who weighs everything, who is able to do everything, and who wants to save everyone and come to the mind of Truth. Enlighten my child (name) with the knowledge of Thy truth and Thy holy will, strengthen him to walk according to Thy commandments and have mercy on me, a sinner, through the prayers of Thy Most Pure Mother, the Mother of God and the Ever-Virgin Mary, and Thy saints (all the patron saints of the family are listed), for Thou art glorified with Your beginningless Father and with Your Most Holy and Good and Life-giving Spirit, now and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Another prayer to the Lord Jesus Christ by the Venerable Ambrose of Optina

Merciful Lord, Jesus Christ, I entrust to You my child, which You have given to me, fulfill my prayer.

I ask You, Lord, save him in ways that You Yourself know. Save him from vices, evil, pride, and let nothing contrary to You touch his soul. But grant him faith, love and hope for salvation, and may he be holy and blameless before his God life path.

Bless him, Lord, that my child may strive at every moment of his life to fulfill Your holy will, so that You, Lord, may always be with him by Your Holy Spirit. Lord, teach him to pray to You, so that prayer may be his support, joy in sorrow and consolation of life, and so that we, his parents, may be saved by his prayer.

May Your angels protect him always.

May my child be sensitive to the grief of his neighbors and may he fulfill Your commandment of love. And if he sins, then grant him, Lord, to repent, and You, in Your ineffable mercy, forgive him. When his earthly life ends, take him to Your heavenly abode. Amen.

Prayer to the Guardian Angel

Holy Guardian Angel of my child (name), cover him with your protection from the arrows of the demon, from the eyes of the seducer, and keep his heart in angelic purity. Amen.

In Rus', they have always treated the younger generation with trepidation and care, namely, their spiritual enlightenment. It is no coincidence that the “Education”, an icon of the Mother of God, occupies an important place among other Orthodox images. Many saints and Jesus Christ himself noted the need for parental prayer, as well as life in the commandments of God, because children follow the example of both good and bad.

The icon of the Mother of God “Education” is very significant and revered in Rus'. Its history, however, is rather vague. It is believed that it came to us from Byzantium, but how this happened is unknown. Since it was from the Byzantine Empire that the first icons, as well as the canons of their writing, came to us, we can assume that this happened a very long time ago.

The icon had miraculous properties and before the revolution in Russia it was in the Kazan Cathedral in Moscow. However, after it, the image was lost and now there is an exact list, which also has miraculous properties. In addition to this, the most important list, there are others that are located in many temples.

Iconography of the image

The icon of the Mother of God “Education” (photo presented below) is of Hodegetria type (i.e., the Guide who shows the way). It depicts the Mother of God holding the Child in her left hand. The Child himself extends his hand to the face of the Mother of God (in some images there are two hands).

The face of the Mother of God is permeated with love and tenderness not only for her Son, but also for the entire human race. And although the first Byzantine icons are very strict and ascetic in the depiction of images, this particular image of the Mother of God and Child is very airy and solemn. This is due to the fact that the iconography is very light and the color palette is sophisticated.

The Mother of God herself also points with her right hand to the Baby Jesus. The Mother of God wears dark red clothes (maforium), with three stars depicted on them (one of them is hidden by her son). Along the edges of the maforia there is a gold border. The Child himself is dressed in a cloak-like fabric (it is believed that this is a prototype of the shroud), which leaves one part of the chest naked (in some images it is completely naked, as a sign of denial of the worldly).

“Education”, the icon of the Mother of God, shows the importance of the young generation for humanity. Christ himself spoke about this. He said that one who is like a child will enter the Kingdom of God. Obviously, it is no coincidence that this particular image has become an assistant in the difficult task of raising children in spirituality.

How does an icon help?

The icon of the Mother of God “Education” has miraculous power. What does she help with? This is very important for a parent to know, since on the path of your child’s development in life there will be temptations, bad company, insults, cruelty with disappointment, as well as many other negative aspects. This is all, unfortunately, part of our life.

The most the best way To protect the child from all this and lead him to the true path, he will ask intercessors for help. Prayer to the Mother of God, who is a symbol of motherhood and the patroness of the family, will be your faithful helper in this difficult journey. This, moreover, is also an excellent example of the goodness of the parents themselves, which will undoubtedly have a beneficial effect on the child.

Prayer and akathist before the icon

If you have problems with your child, then “Education” - the icon of the Mother of God - will help you. What do they pray to her for? There is a short ancient prayer that has survived to this day. These are the following words: “I entrust my child entirely to my Lord Jesus Christ and to Your, Most Pure, heavenly protection.”

There is also a special prayer that should be performed in front of the “Education” icon. It asks for the intercession of the Mother of God for all their children of any age, even those not yet born. It also asks for their guidance and intercession before God, so that they are given the opportunity to be spiritually saved.

Akathist to the icon of the Mother of God “Education” is a hymn to the Mother of God, her high motherhood and intercession from evil. It is read on the day of remembrance of the icon, as well as every week in some churches where this image is located. Parents can also read the akathist, asking the Mother of God for intercession for their children. It is very important to understand with your heart every word with which you appeal to the Mother of God. Only fervent parental prayer can be beneficial and will be heard.

Miracles performed with the help of an icon

Due to the fact that information about this icon is very scarce, it is difficult to give many examples of miracles. However, in the church under construction in Nekrasovka, the icon of the Mother of God “Education” helped in one matter. The prayer before her was so earnest and sincere that the problem was solved very quickly. Its essence was that it was necessary to allocate a plot of land for a new temple. Faith and prayer to the Mother of God did their job, the plot was received without any problems.

For the icon, which was in the Kazan Cathedral, there is also a story of miracles. Parents who prayed to this icon for their children received help from it. Their children repented of what they had already done, and also became calmer and returned to the true path (both spiritual and worldly). The same children for whom prayers were made from birth went through their life’s journey more worthily.

The meaning of the icon for the Orthodox

Every parent should have an icon of the Mother of God “Education”. Its importance for children is difficult to overestimate, since many qualities in a child are formed in childhood. It is believed that a child’s character is mainly formed before the age of three, and if you surround him with piety and also place appropriate icons in the house, this will have a positive effect on him.

Love, compassion, humility and other wonderful qualities that are so lacking in this world - all this can only be instilled with proper upbringing, as well as with the intercession of the saints and the Lord. Everyone understood this in the old days, which is why this icon was so valued. And now many people come to kneel before her and offer prayer.

Day of Veneration of the Education Icon

“Education” - the icon of the Mother of God - also has a day of celebration. It happens once a year, namely on the eighteenth of March (or the fifth of March according to the old style). On this day you should pray in front of her, asking Our Lady for sincere intercession for the children. Very often on this day an akathist to the icon is sung.

Words of the saints about education and love

The Icon of the Mother of God “Nurturing” also has a special meaning for elders and saints. All of them perfectly understood the need for proper education of the younger generation, as well as teaching them love for their neighbors, rigor in matters of morality, etc. Therefore, they treated education with special rigor and trepidation.

For example, Saint Theophan the Recluse speaks of the love of a mother and father for their child, and each shows it in their own way. A woman is softer by nature, so her love is warming and indulgent. A man is more firm, therefore his love is more strict. Both must be dosed correctly, then education will be good.

The words of Ambrose of Optina are also very significant. He says that children should be raised in the fear of God, taught Orthodox concepts, and also taught and protected from what is not accepted by the church. This is necessary so that later, as adults, they strive for spiritual life and the Kingdom of God.

Icon of the Mother of God “Nurturing”, which is located in Nekrasovka

In honor of this icon there is also Orthodox church. It is located near Moscow, in the village of Nekrasovka. Initially, there was a temporary temple named after Sergius of Radonezh, the construction of which was welcomed by the residents, since before that there was nothing there at all. After some time, due to the increase in the parish, a new temple complex was required.

The name of the new temple was supposed to be the same as the old one, but problems arose with this. Therefore, it was very opportune to remember the words of the Patriarch about the need to educate young people in accordance with God’s laws. This is how the temple of the Icon of the Mother of God “Education” appeared, and also an icon was placed that had already created a miracle (it is written about above).

Temple architecture

In the project, the temple was to have a consecrated main altar in honor of the Mother of God “Education” icon. There will also be two other thrones - in honor of St. Stylian, as well as St. Sergius. The temple, which will be located in ground floor, will be dedicated to the Nativity of Christ. This coincides with the fact that the first liturgy in Nekrasovka was held on this very holiday.

The interesting point is that interior walls The temple is going to be decorated using an ancient technique - encaustic. Its essence lies in the fact that wax is added to the mixture of paints to bind them, so a unique image is obtained. Colored mosaics will be laid on the dome and vaults.

Also now in the temple there is an Athos stone from the monastery of the Great Martyr Panteleimon. And this is very symbolic, since the design of the cathedral itself is in the late Byzantine style. Also in the temple there is an icon of St. Stylian, which was also brought from Athos.

They plan to decorate the iconostasis of the future cathedral with icons that will be hand-embroidered with beads. Women are already working on this. And in the temporary temple there is a miraculous icon of St. Seraphim of Sarov, which has already been decorated by the residents of the village (with earrings, a pendant and a ring). This is gratitude for help in prayers.

Also, some icons were brought by parishioners. One of them is “Cathedral” Holy Mother of God" This is the largest icon, next to it is the Virgin Belt, beautifully decorated with beads.

Today, the construction of the temple is coming to an end. A cross has already been installed on the dome, which in its manufacture is a copy of the cross located on Athos. It was installed on the famous mountain by Russian Orthodox Christians in 1882. Just like the original, it has a sapphire ball in the center, illuminated in the dark.

Temple Education

The most important place in the cathedral is occupied by “Education” - the icon of the Mother of God, so it is no coincidence that the spiritual education of youth is in first place. There is already a Sunday school for children there. In addition, there is a developed children's creativity— young parishioners are allowed to fantasize about the theme of their future church and make small models.

There is also a Sunday school for adults, which is not the first time it has accepted students. They study there for three years until graduation. The school for adults is very popular, as students are recruited every year.

The construction of the temple greatly influenced the residents; two schools began to teach the basics Orthodox culture. This does not mean at all that a part appeared there Sunday school, also it is not considered to be teaching the law of God. This is rather a more scientific approach, which, however, affects Orthodoxy, forcing us to perceive it as our heritage (after all, our ancestors used to be all baptized and attended churches, they were afraid of God's punishment).

The icon, which is located in the Kazan Cathedral

The first miraculous icon was lost, as was written above, after the revolution in Russia. An exact list was written from her. Today the icon of the Mother of God “Education” is located in Moscow, in its old place - in the Kazan Cathedral. Since its restoration, numerous Orthodox Christians have flocked there to pray before the image and ask for the protection of the Mother of God for their children.

In addition to her, there are other shrines in the cathedral. This is the revered icon of the Kazan Mother of God, her reliquary. After restoration, divine services and liturgies are held in the cathedral, and on Fridays an akathist is read to the main icon of the cathedral and a prayer service is held.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to say that we should take care in raising a child, instilling in him the values that are necessary for raising a worthy person who can enter the Kingdom of God. This can only be done by personal example, as well as by asking for intercession and help from the saints. You should pray fervently and ask for strength and patience in this difficult matter, especially in our time.

Very often, parents turn to the Mother of God, and this is no coincidence, since she is considered the patroness of the family and children. There are a lot of her images that help in various cases, but, as is clear from the above material, the most effective help in education can come from the icon with the same name. Pray for the sake of our future generation, that it will be brought up in the fear of God, on the Laws of God. After all, only then will there be peace and order on earth. Everyone will be able to think of their neighbor with love, and not with hatred, in the family everyone will respect their neighbor, marriage ties will become stronger. All this can be achieved only by coming to God and bringing your children there.

Kontakion 1

In the chosen Voivode and zealous Educator of the Christian family, as having been delivered from the evil ones, let us write thanks to Thy servants, the Mother of God, but as having an invincible power, free our children from all troubles, let us call to Thee:

Ikos 1

And to send an angel from heaven as our child, intercede, O Most Holy One, with Thy Son and our God, just as the archangel Gabriel was sent to You, and make us worthy to cry out to You:

Rejoice, you who made your parents happy with your birth; Rejoice, you have asked God with many tears.

Rejoice, prayer and fasting are a bright vegetation; Rejoice in pious life, red fruit.

Rejoice, filled with holy obedience from infancy; Rejoice in piety from your mother's breast.

Rejoice, all-bright home of love; Rejoice, treasure of the Lord's mercies.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 2

In our tearful parental prayer, have mercy, O Lady, for our children, take them under Your honest and blessed protection, so that they may cry out to God in joy: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Send down to our children’s minds how we can serve You well, and fill their hearts with heavenly wisdom, giving us the gift of loving one thing and despising earthly things, and do not forbid us to cry out with our lips:

Rejoice, you who spent your childhood at the temple; Rejoice, you who have ascended into the Holy of Holies.

Rejoice, dedicated to one God; Rejoice, you who prayed to Him day and night.

Rejoice, having loved purity and chastity from childhood; Rejoice, you who diligently guarded your humility.

Rejoice, ever burning with prayer to God; Rejoice, praise and joy of the parents of the saints.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 3

May the power of the Most High overshadow your children for the sake of vigilant intercession for them before your Son, so that, knowing your motherly mercy towards all who flow to you with faith, they will cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

And more than our children from God, we do not want to see them living in fiery hell, but being written down as animals. For this reason, Most Pure Virgin, bow to the voice of our prayer, crying to You:

Rejoice, Mother of God and the Word; Rejoice, great holy of holies.

Rejoice, teacher of the Son of God; Rejoice, nurse of the Lord of hosts.

Rejoice, for you are giving birth to the Savior of the world; Rejoice, for you have raised the Deliverer to the captives.

Rejoice, for you bear a Guide to the lost; Rejoice, for the Son is Your Lord.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 4

Seeing the storm of many different temptations, which have multiplied, like flies and pests, within our borders, to You, O Gracious One, we cry out for our children, that they may escape these and cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

With a loud voice Your voice says to Your Son: Accept everyone who prays to You and calls on My name for help, - we stretch out our hands in prayer to Your mercy, so that you may take our children under Your protection and fulfill our petition as follows:

Rejoice, thou who deliverest our children from despondency; Rejoice, protecting them from mad joy.

Rejoice, who strengthens them in bearing the cross; Rejoice, you who establish them in labors of piety.

Rejoice, who mercifully preserves them under Your protection; Rejoice, you who give them health of souls and bodies.

Rejoice, zealous Teacher of chastity; Rejoice, merciful seeker of the lost.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 5

May the Holy Morning Star, Thy Son, Most Holy Virgin, shine with an unevening light in the hearts of our children, so that we may cry to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

As we continue our diligent prayer, do not turn Your face away from our children, lest they turn away from You, and hear the words of our mouth crying out like this:

Rejoice, for you teach our children to have an understanding for good; Rejoice, you who stumble them on the path of sin.

Rejoice, you who teach them the right to walk; Rejoice, you who protect them from the wickedness of evil people.

Rejoice, you who strengthen them in their suffering; Rejoice, thank God for everything you teach.

Rejoice, good Intercessor ever before Your Son for our children; Rejoice, their Helper before the Creator and God.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 6

The whole Christian world preaches Your constant intercession for those who pray to You. Sitsa and now hear this much-painful parental prayer for our children, who call them to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

May a ray of grace shine in the souls of our children, and, enlightened by You, they will see the path leading to eternal life, and follow them, keeping them under Your almighty protection. For this reason, hear us, calling You like this:

Rejoice, you who strive for the good of your children to love their children; Rejoice, you who are the hearts of your children, who honor your parents as you touch them.

Rejoice, you who give reason to those who ask; Rejoice, illuminating meanings for the faithful.

Rejoice, joy to all who mourn; Rejoice, softening of evil hearts.

Rejoice, Joy and Consolation; Rejoice, increase in mind.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 7

With our children desiring eternal salvation, we stand with tears before Thy venerable icon, O Lady, that you may not despise our prayer, calling to Thy Son: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

Show new mercy to our children, O Lady, and through the unsearchable destinies of Your Son draw them under Your gracious protection, so that we earnestly call to You:

Rejoice, education of our children, who are protected from eternal torment; Rejoice, education of our children, so that they may inherit unceasing bliss.

Rejoice, awakening of the conscience of our children to repentance; Rejoice, you who feed them with the fruits of the love of Philokalia.

Rejoice, most merciful Comforter of all who mourn and are burdened; Rejoice, never-sleeping Teacher of all the lost and blind.

Rejoice, Judge of the righteous supplication; Rejoice, forgiveness of many sins.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 8

Wandering in this vale of much sorrow through the sea of many rebellious passions, where will our children find a solid refuge, if not in You, Most Pure One? Travel with them and guide them on the true path, let them call to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

In this you are the merciful Mother, the Most Pure Virgin, like Christ the Savior, speaking to You at His upcoming cross: Behold, Your son, - pointing to the chosen one from man. For this reason we entrust our children into Your hands and in humility we call upon You:

Rejoice, merciful Guide to our children; Rejoice, merciful eradicator of thorns of sinful passions.

Rejoice, you who provide joy in the desert of sin; Rejoice, consoling one in a moment of sorrow.

Rejoice, guide to the land of promise; Rejoice, joyful one on the water of rest.

Rejoice, perfect in understanding of teachers and teachers; Rejoice, blessing of the homes and families of the pious.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 9

Fill the hearts and souls of our children with every goodness, driving away from them the spirit of evil godlessness, wickedness and fornication that dominates this world. Keep Your servants in purity and chastity, so that they cry out to God in tenderness: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

In the things of the world, who lie to Your all-powerful intercession, drive away, Mother of God, from our children, so that they do not crawl with their minds into soul-sucking teachings and do not turn their hearts into placeless lusts, but look at us, who cry out truly:

Rejoice, you who teach our children good morals; Rejoice, you who deliver them from evil habits.

Rejoice, you who send wise mentors to Your servants; Rejoice, you who turn them away from evil communities.

Rejoice, you who call to heed good teaching; Rejoice, you who help despise vain fables.

Rejoice, God's favor towards sinners; Rejoice, strong intercession of those who repent before the Lord.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 10

From the shepherd of the world, Christ God called not the righteous, but sinners to repentance. For this reason, pray to Your Son for our children, even if they go to a faraway country, yet, having been sought by Your Mother’s intercession, they will return in contrition of heart to the Heavenly Father and cry to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Stand with the indestructible shadow, O Heavenly Queen, to our children, so that through Your intercession they will avoid the serpent’s offering, the red one for food, and the pursuit of the deadly one, and may be able to sing to You with a pure heart:

Rejoice, you who deliver our children from poisonous potions; Rejoice, you who save them from soul-destroying drinking.

Rejoice, you who preserve them from fornication; Rejoice, you who teach them chastity.

Rejoice, consumption of all deception; Rejoice, deliverance from all confusion.

Rejoice, champion of sobriety; Rejoice, mediator of wisdom.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 11

I will vouchsafe Your children your irresistible intercession, so that they may find You a strong Helper, and through Your grace they will open their lips to sing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

Make the life of our children from the wind-receiver, so that they always burn with love for You and Your Son, and do not despise us who call upon You:

Rejoice, dispelling the smoke of temptations; Rejoice, enlightening the darkness of passions.

Rejoice, thou who teachest preserve sight; Rejoice, guardian of feelings, admonishing one.

Rejoice, Mother of unspeakable bounties; Rejoice, who encourages our children to stand before You in reverence.

Rejoice, life-giving consolation for them in sorrow; Rejoice, immutable refuge from the attacks of the evil ones.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 12

With the ineffable grace of the Holy Spirit, nourish the hearts of our children, so that we may love only Your Son and God and You, the Most Gracious Intercessor, so that, having moved by You, they call the King of all: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing Your mercy, through which you have mercy and nourishment on our children, we pray: do not stop asking Your Son for them, for all things are possible for You, and hear our prayers as follows:

Rejoice, from the font of holy baptism of our children to the Receiver; Rejoice, to the light of truth, their Guide.

Rejoice, Thou who givest the dew of Thy grace to them; Rejoice, you who feed them with the milk of truth.

Rejoice, for you create earthly angels for our children; Rejoice as you transform them into heavenly people.

Rejoice, heirs of the Kingdom of Heaven who show them; Rejoice, you who place them in the heavenly abodes.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Kontakion 13

O All-Sung Mother of the Sweetest Jesus! Accept this small prayer for our children into the aroma of the spiritual fragrance and take them under Your merciful protection. Also, grant them to think, speak and do exactly what is pleasing to You and Your Son, and send them in this life all that is useful for the salvation of their souls, so that they may sing to God: Alleluia.

This kontakion is read three times, then the 1st ikos “Angel from heaven...” and the 1st kontakion “To the Chosen Voivode...”.

Prayer to our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, prayers for the sake of Thy Most Pure Mother, hear us, Thy unworthy servants, who diligently flow to You. Lord, in Thy merciful power are our children, Thy servants (names). Have mercy and save them for Thy name's sake, forgive them all sins, voluntary and involuntary, committed by them before You, Lord. Guide them on the true path, enlighten their minds with Your light, warm their hearts with Your love. Lord, bless them in the house, in the teaching, on the road and in every place of Your dominion. Lord, protect them under Your holy shelter from a flying arrow, from fire, from a sword, from a deadly plague and from vain death. Lord, protect them from all visible and invisible enemies, heal them from all illnesses, cleanse them from all filth and ease their mental suffering. Lord, grant them the grace of Your Holy Spirit for many years of life, health, chastity and piety. Lord, increase and strengthen their mental and physical strength, which You have given them. Grant Your blessing to our children on the pious and, if You please, family life. Lord, grant us, Thy unworthy and sinful servants (names), a blessing for the upbringing of our children and make us worthy to collectively achieve the eternal Kingdom and there glorify Thy most honorable and magnificent name, with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Prayer to the Mother of God

O Most Holy Lady Virgin Mary, most merciful Mother of all people, save and preserve under Your shelter our children (names), all youths, young women, infants and those carried in the womb of their mother. Cover them with Your robe, keep them in the fear of God and obedience as a parent, pray to our Lord and Your Son to grant them everything useful for spiritual salvation. We entrust them to Your maternal supervision, as You are the Divine protection of Your servant. Amen.

Troparion, tone 4

In the temple, in the Holy of Holies, clothed with faith and wisdom and immeasurable virginity, Archangel Gabriel brought a kiss from heaven and, hedgehog: Rejoice, rejoice, Blessed One, rejoice, Most Glorified One, the Lord is with Thee.

The icon of the Mother of God, called “Education,” is quite rare in Russian churches. Information about her is sparse. The icon has the special grace to help raise children in the spirit of piety.

This image came to us from Byzantium and became famous throughout the Russian land for its miracles. Before the revolution, the original icon was in the Kazan Cathedral on Red Square, but after its destruction it was lost. A short prayer to this image has survived to this day: “I entrust my child entirely to my Lord Jesus Christ and to Your, Most Pure One, heavenly protection.”

According to the holy fathers, the first condition for success in raising children is the parents’ intense prayer for them. What should parents pray for first? Saint Theophan the Recluse wrote: “It is obvious that the main desire of parents should be directed towards raising their child as a living member of the Militant Church of Christ. And the Lord will fulfill the prayer for this in due time. But when this time comes, we are not given to know; There are cases when the Lord did not lead young men on the straight path, but saved them from pride and allowed them to temporarily deviate from the straight path and fall. Let parents not despair in such cases, but let them beg the Almighty even more diligently.”

The saint attached particular importance to his mother’s prayers: “Mother’s love is not only an image, but also the very action of God’s providential care for us. Without it, the spread and preservation of the human race is unthinkable. A mother who does not love her children is a rejecter of both God and people.”

The Monk Ambrose of Optina said: “It will be enough if you take care to raise your children in the fear of God, instill in them the Orthodox concept and protect them from concepts alien to the Orthodox Church.”

A person’s character is already formed by the age of three, and it is very important that from the first days children are surrounded by noble, pure, sublime images, which are the holy icons. Look closely at the face of a real icon - how many of the most beautiful features are expressed in it, how much peace, love, compassion, humility, dispassion and tenderness it shows. If an icon hangs in your house, the child subconsciously develops the corresponding qualities, values, ideals and aspirations. We don’t even suspect how strong and beneficial its influence can be.

Troparion

Raised in the temple in the Holy of Holies,/ clothed in faith and wisdom and immeasurable virginity,/ Archangel Gabriel brought a kiss from heaven/ and Rejoice, O Blessed One,/ Rejoice, O Most Glorified One, the Lord is with Thee.

Prayer

Most Holy Theotokos, save us!

Story miraculous icon Education, the akathist of which was written in honor of our Most Holy Lady Theotokos, begins in Byzantium. It is this country that is considered the birthplace of the image written in accordance with the iconographic type “Hodegetria”, which means “Guide”. On the icon of Education, the Mother of God is depicted from the waist up, on her left hand She holds Her Son, and with her right hand she points to Him as the only possible one. Characteristic feature This particular icon is the Face of the Mother of God, slightly turned away from the Child.

How the icon of Education, the text of the prayer of which is presented at the end of the article, came to Russia is unknown, but very soon it became especially revered because large quantity miracles happening near her.

Orthodox akathist Education in front of the icon of the Mother of God is a prayer for children

From the description of the history of the image, it is known that the original icon of the Mother of God of Education was kept in the Kazan Cathedral in Moscow until 1917, but then, to the great grief of all Orthodox Christians in Russia, it mysteriously disappeared.

However, long before this unfortunate incident, believers noticed that the Orthodox prayer of the Mother of God Education, read before this holy image, surprisingly has a very positive effect on children. They become more respectful and obedient towards their parents, participate more willingly in church life, and those of them who refused to go to church at all begin to show interest in the temple. Therefore, despite the fact that best example for children, the pious life of their parents still remains, prayer before the icon of the Mother of God. Education should become a reference book for all believing mothers and fathers.

Read the prayer to the Mother of God in front of the icon of Education about the salvation of children

Orthodox believe that all believers are under the special protection of the Most Holy Lady, and therefore they first of all bring their sorrows to Her, but the akathist to the icon of the Mother of God Education stands out from other prayers, since it helps to direct our future - children - on the true path. Reading prayers to the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos. Education is accepted in Orthodox schools, camps, and at youth rallies and forums, as well as on the day of its celebration, March 18.

Listen to the video akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in front of the icon Education

Text of the Christian akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in front of Her icon, called Education

To the chosen Voivode and zealous Educator of the Christian race, as having been delivered from the evil, let us write thanks to Thy servants, the Mother of God, but as having an invincible power, free our children from all troubles, let us call to Thee:

Send an angel from Heaven for our children, intercede, O Most Holy One, with Your Son and our God, just as the Archangel Gabriel was sent to You, and make us worthy to cry out to You:

making her parents happy with her birth;

Rejoice, you have asked God with many tears.

Rejoice, prayer and fasting are a bright vegetation;

Rejoice, red fruit of pious life.

Rejoice, filled with holy obedience from infancy;

Rejoice, thou mother filled with piety from the breast.

Rejoice, all-bright home of love;

Rejoice, treasure of the Lord's mercies.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Seeing our tearful parental prayer, have mercy, O Lady, for our children, take them under Your honest and blessed protection, so that they may cry out to God in joy: Alleluia.

Send down understanding to our children, how best to serve You, and fill their hearts with heavenly wisdom, giving us one to love, but to despise earthly things, and do not forbid us to cry out with our lips:

Rejoice, you who spent your childhood at the temple

Rejoice, you who have ascended into the Holy of Holies.

Rejoice, dedicated to the One God;

Rejoice, you who prayed to Him day and night.

Rejoice, having loved purity and chastity from childhood;

Rejoice, you who diligently guarded your humility.

Rejoice, ever burning with prayer to God;

Rejoice, praise and joy of the parents of the saints.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

May the power of the Most High overshadow your children for the sake of vigilant intercession for them before your Son, and having recognized your maternal mercy for all who flow to you with faith, they will cry out to God: Alleluia.

Having our children from God, we do not want to see them living in fiery hell, but being written down as animals. For this reason, bow to the voice of our prayer, crying to You:

Rejoice, Mother of God and the Word;

Rejoice, great holy of holies.

Rejoice, Educator of the Son of God;

Rejoice, Nurse of the Lord of hosts.

Rejoice, for you are giving birth to the Savior of the world;

Rejoice, for you have raised the Deliverer to the captives.

Rejoice, for you bear a Guide to the lost;

Rejoice, for Your Son is Lord.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Seeing the storm of many different temptations, which have multiplied like so many flies and scoundrels within our borders, we cry to You, O Gracious One, for our children, that they may escape these and cry out to God: Alleluia.

Hearing Your voice saying to Your Son: “Accept everyone who prays to You and calls on My name for help,” we stretch out our hands in prayer to Your mercy, so that you may take our children under Your protection and fulfill our petition as follows:

Rejoice, thou who deliverest our children from despondency;

Rejoice, you who protect them from mad joy.

Rejoice, who strengthens them in bearing the cross;

Rejoice, you who affirm them in the labors of piety.

Rejoice, who mercifully preserves them under Your protection;

Rejoice, you who give them health of souls and bodies.

Rejoice, zealous Teacher of chastity;

Rejoice, merciful seeker of the lost.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

May the God-bearing morning star, Thy Son, Most Holy Virgin, shine with an unevening light in the hearts of our children, so that they may cry to God: Alleluia.

Seeing our diligent prayer, do not turn Your face away from our children, lest they turn away from You, and hear the words of our lips crying out like this:

Rejoice, for you have taught our children to have an understanding for good;

Rejoice, you who stumble them on the path of sin.

Rejoice, thou who teachest them to rule;

Rejoice, you who protect them from the wickedness of evil people.

Rejoice, you who strengthen them in their suffering;

Rejoice, thank God for everything you teach.

Rejoice, good Intercessor ever before Your Son for our children;

Rejoice, their Supporter before the Creator and God.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

The whole Christian world preaches Your constant intercession for those who pray to You. Sitsa and now hear this much-painful parental prayer for our children, who call them to God: Alleluia.

May a ray of grace shine in the souls of our children, and enlightened by You, they will see the path leading to the eternal life, and follow it, keeping us under Your almighty protection. For this reason, hear us calling Ti like this:

Rejoice, you who motivate parents to love their children for the good;

Rejoice, hearts of children, honor your parents, touching one.

Rejoice, you who give reason to those who ask;

Rejoice, thou illuminating meanings for the faithful.

Rejoice, joy to all who mourn;

Rejoice, softening of evil hearts.

Rejoice, joy and consolation;

Rejoice, increase in intelligence.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Desiring eternal salvation for our children, we stand with tears before Your venerable icon, O Lady, may you not despise our prayer, calling to Your Son: Alleluia.

Show new mercy to our children, O Lady, and through the unsearchable destinies of Your Son draw them under Your grace-filled protection, so that we earnestly call to You:

Rejoice, education of our children, so that they will be protected from eternal torment;

Rejoice, the upbringing of our children will enable them to inherit unceasing bliss.

Rejoice, awakening of the conscience of our children to repentance;

Rejoice, you who feed them with the fruits of the love of Philokalia.

Rejoice, most merciful Comforter of all who mourn and are burdened;

Rejoice, never-sleeping Teacher of all the lost and blinded.

Rejoice, Judge of the righteous supplication;

Rejoice, forgiveness of many sins.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Wandering in this much-sorrowful vale along the sea of many rebellious passions, where will our children find a solid refuge, if not in You, Most Pure One. Travel with them and guide them on the true path, let them call to God: Alleluia.

Thou art the merciful Mother of all, the Most Pure Virgin, as Christ the Savior speaks to Thee at His coming Cross: “Behold Thy son,” pointing to the chosen one from man. For this reason we entrust our children into Your hands and in humility we call upon You:

Rejoice, merciful Guide to our children;

Rejoice, merciful Eradicator of thorns of sinful passions.

Rejoice, you who provide joy in the desert of sin;

Rejoice in a moment of sorrow, consoling.

Rejoice, guide to the land of promise;

Rejoice, joyful one on the water of rest.

Rejoice, perfect in understanding of teachers and teachers;

Rejoice, blessing of the homes and families of the pious.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Fill the hearts and souls of our children with every good thing, driving away from them the spirit of evil godlessness, wickedness and fornication that dominates this world. Keep Your servants in purity and chastity, so that they cry out to God in tenderness: Alleluia.

Throw away, Mother of God, the branches of wisdom that lie against Your all-powerful intercession, from our children, so that they do not crawl with their minds into soul-sucking teachings and do not turn their hearts into placeless lusts, but look at us, who cry out truly:

Rejoice, you who teach our children good morals;

Rejoice, thou who deliverest them from evil habits.

Rejoice, you who send wise mentors to Your servants;

Rejoice, you who turn them away from evil communities.

Rejoice, you who call to heed good teaching;

Rejoice, you who help despise vain fables.

Rejoice, God's favor towards sinners;

Rejoice, strong intercession of those who repent before the Lord.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Although Christ God did not call the righteous to save the world, but sinners to repentance. For this reason, pray to Thy Son for our children, even if they go to a distant country, even if they have been sought by Thy Mother’s intercession, they will return in contrition of heart to the Heavenly Father and cry to Him: Alleluia.

Become an indestructible wall, O Heavenly Queen, to our children, so that through Your intercession they will avoid the serpent’s offering, red for food, and the pursuit of death, and may sing to You with a pure heart:

Rejoice, thou who deliverest our children from the poisonous potion;

Rejoice, you who save them from soul-destroying drinking.

Rejoice, you who preserve them from fornication;

Rejoice, you who teach them chastity.

Rejoice, consumption of all deception;

Rejoice, deliverance from all confusion.

Rejoice, Champion of sobriety;

Rejoice, Intercessor of wisdom.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Vouchsafe to sing Your irresistible intercession to our children, so that they may find You a strong Helper, and through Your grace they will open their lips to sing to God: Alleluia.

Make the life of our children a light-receiving light, so that they may always burn with love for You and Your Son, and do not despise those who call You:

Rejoice, dispelling the smoke of temptations;

Rejoice, you who enlighten the darkness of passions.

Rejoice, thou who teachest preserve sight;

Rejoice, guardian of the senses, admonishing one.

Rejoice, Mother of unspeakable bounties;

Rejoice, who encourages our children to stand before You in reverence.

Rejoice, life-giving consolation for them in sorrow;

Rejoice, immutable refuge from the attacks of the evil ones.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

Fill the hearts of our children with the ineffable grace of the Holy Spirit, so that we may love only Your Son and God, and You, the Most Gracious Intercessor, may the King of all be called: Alleluia.

Singing Your mercy, through which you have mercy and nourishment on our children, we pray: do not stop asking Your Son for them, for all things are possible for You, and hear our prayers as follows:

Rejoice, from the font of holy baptism of our children to the Receiver;

Rejoice, to the light of truth, their Guide.

Rejoice, Thou who givest the dew of Thy grace to them;

Rejoice, you who feed them with the milk of truth.

Rejoice, for you create earthly Angels for our children;

Rejoice as you transform them into heavenly people.

Rejoice, heirs of the Kingdom of Heaven who show them;

Rejoice in the bodies of heaven, who host them.

Rejoice, good Teacher, brought up into the Holy of Holies.

O All-Sung Mother of the Sweetest Jesus! Accept this small prayer for our children into the aroma of the spiritual fragrance and take them under Your merciful protection. Also, grant them to think, speak and do exactly what is pleasing to You and Your Son, and let them eat in this time all that is useful for the salvation of their souls, so that they may sing to God: Alleluia.

/This kontakion is read three times, then the 1st ikos and the 1st kontakion/

Read the text of the prayer to the Most Holy Theotokos in front of her icon. Upbringing

O Most Holy Lady Virgin Mary, Mother of all people, save and preserve under Your shelter our children (names), all youths, young women, infants and those carried in the womb of their mother. Cover them with Your robe, keep them in the fear of God and obedience as a parent, pray to our Lord and Your Son to grant them everything useful for spiritual salvation. We entrust them to Your maternal supervision, as You are the Divine protection of Your servant.

Troparion to the Icon of the Mother of God Education,

Raised in the temple in the Holy of Holies, clothed in faith and wisdom and immeasurable virginity, Archangel Gabriel brought a kiss to heaven and, Rejoice, rejoice, Blessed One, rejoice, Most Glorified One, the Lord is with Thee.

To the chosen Voivode and zealous Educator of the Christian race, as having been delivered from the evil, let us write thanks to Thy servants, the Mother of God, but as having an invincible power, from the children of freedom, let us call to Thee: Rejoice, Good Educator, brought up in the Holy of Holies.

Greatness

We magnify You, / Most Holy Virgin / God-chosen Youth, / and honor Your holy image, / through which you bring healing / to all who come with faith.