The Orthodox Christians on October 14 observe the Intercession of the Theotokos or the Protection of Our Most Holy Lady Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, known in Moldova as Pokrov (“protection”). Viorel Lukin, bishop of the Church “Protection of the Mother of God” that is located in Buiucani district of Chisinau, called on the people to stop committing sins, to pray and to multiply the good deeds.
The priest said every feast is important, but the Intercession has a special meaning, including because the feast day of the patron saint of Chisinau is celebrated on this day. Christians from all over the country come to Chisinau to celebrate this feat. The omophorion of the Mother of God is like a support, assistance and protection from everything and those who pray to Virgin Mary hope to be protected.
On October 14, the feast day of the patron saint is celebrated in a number of churches and villages and towns of Moldova, including at the “Protection of the Mother of God” Church. Viorel Lukin said the feast will start with the morning prayers and will continue with the Liturgy. Afterward, there will be blessed a building located near the church, where there will be an education center. The choir will hold rehearsals there. A room there is designed for staging charity meals.
According to Eastern Orthodox tradition, the Feast of the Protection, or of Intercession, celebrates the apparition of the Virgin Mary in the 10th century at the Blachernae Church in Constantinople. It is said that the Virgin Mary appeared to ask Her Son, Jesus Christ, to accept the prayers of all the people entreating Him and looking for Her protection.
