Life-giving source of good. Miraculous healing of the soul and body from the icon of the Virgin "Life-Giving Spring"

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27.09.2019

All about religion and faith - "icon life-giving spring the meaning of what prayer helps with detailed description and photographs.

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The icon of the Life-Giving Source helps in what

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Icon of the Life-Giving Spring Mother of God originates from the 5th century. It was then that near Constantinople, a miraculous image with the help of a source was able to heal the blind. This miracle could not go unnoticed, and after this diva became known to everyone, by decree of Emperor Leo I, in honor of the miracle, a temple was built near the divine source.

It is very difficult to name even an approximate number of those people who were able to heal themselves in this temple. And soon, from the image of the source standing near, they began to write lists, which then dispersed throughout the world, bestowing Orthodox people healing and God's grace.

On the shrine itself, the Mother of God is depicted sitting in the font with little Jesus in her arms. From such a type as Nicopeia Kiriotissa (Lady the Victor) comes the iconography of this face of the Virgin. From the very beginning, the source was not painted on the shrine, but later the Fiala (chalice) was included in the overall composition. And later on the shrine began to depict a reservoir and a fountain.

The meaning of the icon and how it helps

The holy face of the Mother of God has a much deeper meaning and significance than just its healing properties from the holy water in the original source or later fonts and springs that were consecrated in her honor.

Life-Giving Source Holy Mother of God- this is the personification of the Holy One herself, bearing in her bosom the universal Savior, bestowing life on all who sincerely believe in him and in his Father, who is always in his soul.

After all, it is not in vain that many say that the Lord is our Life, calling him the Life-giving Christ, and the source of the beginning is She, the Mother of God, it is not for nothing that in the Russian icon-painting tradition one of the names of the face sounds like “Source”. That is, this is the embodiment of the beginning of the source of life, which in the festive kontakion is read as the Water Savior or the Source of God-grace.

She can heal the bodies and souls of earthly inhabitants, like a real caring mother who has taken the entire human race under her care.

What does the icon of the Life-Giving Source help with?

Before the Sacred Image, which was named after healing waters, opened at the behest of the Mother of God by Emperor Leo I Markell, ask for help:

  • When getting rid of bad habits, as well as for salvation from harmful passions;
  • To cure physical and mental ailments;
  • The Mother of God helps in preserving a sinless life;
  • Those who are burdened by the burden of sorrow and deprived of their vitality, the Holy One will support;
  • A sincere prayer addressed to the image will help overcome even the most serious ailments.

What a miracle did the divine shrine

In Thessaly, one of the inhabitants from young age dreamed of seeing the place where the miraculous spring flows. And now the time has come when he, along with other Orthodox, was finally able to begin his long pilgrimage.

However, on the way, the young man was overtaken by illness and, realizing that he did not have long to live, the resident of Thessaly expressed his request to the pilgrims traveling with him that, if the inevitable happened, they did not immediately bury his body, but took it to the Holy Spring and poured out on it. body three vessels of miraculous water, and only after that they gave his body to the earth.

Orthodox people fulfilled the request of the dying man with a prayer, however, when the third vessel was spilled on the body of the pilgrim, the young man came to life. After the miracle performed, the Thessalian decided to spend until the end of his days in the service and asceticism of the Lord and the Mother of God, through the prayers of which the Son of God, by the will of his mother, restored his life.

There are a huge number of other examples of healing with water from springs consecrated in honor of the Saint, but the miracle happens only when a person fervently and wholeheartedly says a prayer and lives in constant faith in God, it is then that he will receive long-awaited relief and healing.

Celebration of the Icon of the Life-Giving Spring

The feast day in honor of the miraculous image of the Mother of God was established in memory of the reconstruction of the temple of the "Life-Giving Spring" in Constantinople, which was erected by Emperor Leo I Markell by the will of the Mother of God over the miraculous source.

This day fell just on Friday of Bright Week and now every year in Orthodox churches on Holy Week with Easter procession carry out the rite of consecration.

In which churches is the icon of the Mother of God the Life-Giving Spring

To date, more than a hundred chapels and temples are known that were named after the Virgin. Below are details of some of them:

  • Church of the Image of the Mother of God (Kosmodamianskaya) in Metkino, Moscow Region. According to the chronicles, in the 17th century, there was a wooden church of Damian and Cosmas near Moscow, but in 1701 it was burned down, but many icons were saved by moving them to a small chapel located nearby. On the site of the destroyed church in 1848, the current one was built god's temple, dedicated to the miraculous image of the Mother of God, which was not accidental, because in 1829 it happened amazing phenomenon the face of the Holy. And already in 1840, Avdotya Evdokimova, the widow of a soldier, transferred to her homeland in the village of Metkino from Moscow a miraculous image that was presented to her by a merchant Anna Kiriyanova. And since then, from all the surroundings, people began to come to church for the sake of worshiping the face;
  • In Tsaritsyno (Moscow) there is also a church dedicated to the Mother of God;
  • Cathedral of the miraculous image of the Mother of God (Sorrowful Church) in Tver;
  • The temple of the miraculous image of the Holy One is located in the Nativity of the Theotokos Monastery in Zadonsk;
  • The miraculous image can also be seen in the Church of Our Lady in Arzamas.

What do they pray to the icon of the Life-Giving Spring

In a prayer service to the Divine image, they ask for the cure of physical ailments, the bringing of vitality and the deliverance of spiritual weakness (especially for people of retirement age).

Prayer to the Life-Giving Source

« O Blessed Virgin, All-merciful Lady Lady Mother of God! Thy life-giving source, healing gifts for the health of our souls and bodies and for the salvation of the world, sharpening, gave us; Also, thank you being, we earnestly pray to Thee, O Most Holy Queen, pray to Your Son and our God to give us forgiveness of sins and to every soul that is grieving and embittered, mercy and consolation, and deliverance from troubles, sorrows and illnesses. Grant, Madam, protection to this temple and this people (and observance of this holy monastery), preservation of the city, deliverance and protection to our country from misfortunes, let us live a peaceful life here, and in the future we will be able to see You, our Intercessor, in the glory of the Kingdom of the Son Yours and our God, to Him be glory and power with the Father and with the Most Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen".

“O Holy Virgin, Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ! You are Mati and the patroness of all who resort to You, look with mercy on the prayers of Your sinful and humble children. You, who are called the Life-giving Source of grace-filled healings, heal the sicknesses of the afflicted and implore Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to send down and all those who flow to You, spiritual and bodily health, and, having forgiven us our voluntary and involuntary sins, grants us everything even to eternal and temporal life is needed. You are the joy of all those who mourn, hear us, the mournful; You are the quenching of sorrow, quench our sorrow; You are the exaction of the lost, do not let us perish in the abyss of our sins, but always deliver us from all sorrows and misfortunes and all evil circumstances. She, our Queen, favoring, our indestructible hope and invincible intercessor, do not turn Your face away from us for our many transgressions, but stretch out to us the hand of Your motherly mercy and create with us a sign of Your mercy for the good: show us Your help and prosper in every deed good. From every undertaking of sin and the thought of the evil one, turn us away, but always glorify the most honorable your name magnifying God the Father and the Son of the Only Begotten Lord Jesus Christ and the Life-Giving Holy Spirit with all the saints forever and ever. Amen".

God bless you!

It will be interesting for you to watch the video story about the miraculous icon "Life-Giving Spring":

Icon of the Life-Giving Spring: meaning, what helps

Especially for those who want to know what the icon of the Life-Giving Spring means in what way it helps the Orthodox people, and what is depicted on it, we wrote this article.

What does the icon of the Life-Giving Spring look like?

  • Depicted on the Life-Giving Spring Our Lady, and she sits with Jesus - her baby in a huge bowl.
  • Holes are made in this bowl through which holy water flows.
  • And that water flows into a large container, and people take water from it. And not only ordinary people take water on that icon, but also the king and queen.
  • And at the top of the icon are two angels.

Historical facts

What is the meaning of the icon?

  • Icon life-giving spring, namely the Mother of God depicted on it, personifies the very source of holiness, miracle and life-giving power.
  • And the life-giving power and the miracle is hidden in Jesus Christ, whom the Mother of God gave birth to.
  • We all need this life-giving power, because Christ is our life.

What can you ask her?

  • You can ask this shrine for help when diseases often attack you and do not allow you to smell life in all its glory.
  • When you have a passion for alcohol or smoking.
  • If you are tormented by remorse for something or sorrow has settled in your soul and there is no strength to drive it out, then here the Mother of God and the icon of the Life-Giving Spring will help.
  • If you want to protect yourself from sin, which beckons you to itself, then prayer before this icon will help you not to violate the Commandments of Christ.
  • If a lot of problems have fallen on you, and you cannot cope with them alone, then in this situation you can enlist the support of the Mother of God.

When should you celebrate?

  • The day of celebration at the icon of the Life-Giving Spring is set for Friday, which falls annually on Bright Easter Week.
  • Since the Easter week and Easter itself are celebrated every year on different dates, there is no specific date for the celebration of the icon of the Life-Giving Spring.

What prayer can be read near the Life-Giving Spring?

  • You can read an arbitrary prayer near this icon.
  • It may, for example, contain the following words: “Our Lady, our dear, thank you, dear, that Jesus Christ gave birth to the light of God. Thank you for the fact that now he keeps us from adversity and helps us in grief. Thank you for giving us the strength to endure all the hardships that come along the way of life. So I want to ask the Lord to help me and you - Holy Virgin Maria, overcome cravings for alcohol. As long as I'm tired of drinking like hell and bring my relatives to white heat with my drinking. Pacify, Mother, my pernicious passions and do not let a single stack of me more get into the body. Help me, Jesus Christ, not to succumb to the persuasion of friends to drink a glass or two with them. In the name of all Saints, Amen!”

Now you know what the meaning of the icon of the Life-Giving Source is in what it helps you, too, became known.

Icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring": what helps. Temple of the Icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring"

With boundless love and reverence in the Christian world, Heavenly Queen- Blessed Virgin Mary. And how can one not love our Intercessor and Prayer Book before the Throne of God! Her clear gaze is directed at us from countless icons. She showed great miracles to people through her images, which became famous as miraculous. One of the most famous among them is the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring".

Miracle in the Sacred Grove

sacred tradition tells that in ancient times, when Byzantium was still a prosperous state and the heart of world Orthodoxy, near its capital Constantinople, not far from the famous Golden Gate, there was a sacred grove. It was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Under the canopy of its branches, a spring flowed from the ground, bringing coolness in hot weather. summer days. Then there were rumors among the people that the water in it has some healing properties, but no one took them seriously, and the source, gradually forgotten by everyone, was overgrown with mud and grass.

But then one day, in 450, a certain warrior named Leo Markell, passing through a grove, met a blind man who got lost among dense trees. The warrior helped him, supported him while he got out of the thickets, and seated him in the shade. When he began to look for water to give the traveler a drink, he heard a wonderful voice, commanding him to find an overgrown spring nearby and wash the blind man's eyes with water.

When the compassionate warrior did this, the blind man suddenly regained his sight, and both of them fell to their knees, offering thanksgiving prayers to the Blessed Virgin, as they realized that it was her voice that was heard in the grove. The Queen of Heaven predicted the imperial crown to Leo Markell, which came true seven years later.

Temples are gifts from grateful emperors

Having reached the highest power, Markell did not forget the miracle that appeared in the sacred grove, and the predictions about his so amazing rise. By his order, the source was cleaned and surrounded by a high stone border. Since then, he began to be called the Life-Giving One. A temple was erected here in honor of the Blessed Virgin, and the icon of the Mother of God “The Life-Giving Spring” was painted especially for it. Since then, the blessed spring and the icon kept in the temple have been glorified by many miracles. Thousands of pilgrims began to flock here from the farthest ends of the empire.

A hundred years later, the emperor Justinian the Great, then ruling, suffering from a serious and incurable illness, came to the sacred grove, where the temple of the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring" stood. Having washed in the blessed waters and performed a prayer service before the miraculous image, he regained health and strength. As a sign of gratitude, the happy emperor ordered to build another temple nearby and, in addition, to found a monastery, designed for a large number of inhabitants. Thus, the icon of the Mother of God “The Life-Giving Spring” was glorified more and more, prayer before which was able to heal from the most serious ailments.

The fall of Byzantium and the destruction of temples

But the terrible disasters of 1453 fell upon Byzantium. The great and once prosperous empire fell under the onslaught of the Muslims. The great star of Orthodoxy has set. Unholy invaders set fire to Christian shrines. Was thrown into ruins and the temple of the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring", and all the monastery buildings that stood nearby. Much later, in 1821, an attempt was made to resume prayer services in the sacred grove, and even a small church was built, but it was soon destroyed, and the blessed spring was covered with earth.

But people in whose hearts the fire of true faith was burning could not calmly look at this sacrilege. Secretly, under the cover of night, the Orthodox cleared away their desecrated shrine. And just as secretly, risking their lives, they carried away, hiding under their clothes, vessels filled with his holy water. It went on like this until it changed. domestic politics new masters of the country, and the Orthodox were not given some relief in the performance of divine services.

Then a small church of the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring" was built on the site of the destroyed temple. And since Orthodoxy cannot be without mercy and compassion, an almshouse and a hospital were built at the church, in which, through prayers to our Most Pure Intercessor, many suffering and crippled people gained health.

Veneration of holy icons in Russia

When, with the fall of Byzantium, the sun of Orthodoxy set in the East, new force it shone in holy Russia, and with it liturgical books and holy images appeared in abundance. And then life was unthinkable without the humble and wise faces of the saints of God. But special treatment was to the images of the Savior and His Most Pure Mother. Among the most revered icons were those painted in ancient times on the banks of the Bosporus. One of them is the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring".

It should be noted that since the 16th century it has become a practice in Russia to consecrate springs and reservoirs located on the territories of monasteries or near them, and at the same time to dedicate them to the Most Holy Theotokos. This custom came to us from Greece. Numerous lists from the Byzantine image of the "Life-Giving Spring" also became widespread. However, compositions written in Russia earlier than the 17th century have not yet been found.

The image of the Virgin in the Sarov desert

As an example of special love for her, we can recall the famous Sarov Hermitage, the glory of which was brought by its name to the unsunset torch of Orthodoxy - St. Seraphim of Sarov. In that monastery, a temple was specially erected, in which the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring" was kept. Its significance in the eyes of believers was so great that reverend elder on especially important occasions, he sent pilgrims to pray to the Mother of God, kneeling before this Her miraculous icon. As is clear from the memoirs of contemporaries, there was no case that a prayer remained unheeded.

An image that strengthens in the fight against sorrows

What is the power possessed by the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring"? How does she help and what can you ask her for? The most important thing that this miraculous image brings to people is deliverance from sorrows. Life, unfortunately, is full of them, and we do not always have enough mental strength to cope with them.

They come from the human enemy, as they are the offspring of unbelief in the providence of God. It is in these cases that the "Life-Giving Spring" - the icon of the Mother of God - brings peace to human souls. What else do they pray to our Most Pure Intercessor? About how to save us from the very sources of these sorrows - the troubles and hardships of life.

Celebrations in honor of the holy icon

As another example of the special veneration of this icon, we should mention the tradition that has developed over many centuries to serve on Friday of Bright Week a prayer service for the blessing of water in front of this image. It is served in all churches immediately after the end of the liturgy. Since ancient times, it has been customary to sprinkle gardens, kitchen gardens and arable land with water consecrated at this prayer service, thereby calling for the help of the Most Holy Theotokos in granting a rich harvest.

The feast of the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring" is usually celebrated twice a year. Once this happens on April 4, since it was on this day in the year 450 that the Mother of God appeared to the pious warrior Leo Markell, ordering him to build a temple in her honor in the holy grove and pray in it for the health and salvation of Orthodox Christians. On that day, the akathist to the icon of the Mother of God “The Life-Giving Spring” is certainly performed.

The second holiday takes place, as mentioned above, on Friday of Bright Week. On that day, the church remembers the renovated temple in honor of this icon, which was once located near Constantinople. In addition to the blessing of water, the celebration is also accompanied by the Easter procession.

Features of the iconography of the image of the Virgin

Special attention should be paid to the iconographic features of this image. It is generally accepted that the icon of the Mother of God "The Life-Giving Spring" has its roots in the ancient Byzantine image of the Most Pure Virgin, called the "Mistress of the Conqueror", which, in turn, is a variant of the Mother of God icon "The Sign". However, art historians do not have a unanimous opinion on this issue.

If you study the lists of icons that were distributed at one time, it is not difficult to notice some significant compositional changes made over the centuries. So, in the early icons there is no image of the source. Also, not immediately, but only in the process of developing the image, a bowl called a phial, a reservoir and a fountain entered its composition.

The spread of the holy image in Russia and Athos

A number of archaeological finds testify to the spread of this image in Russia. So, for example, in the Crimea, during the excavations, a dish with the image of the Virgin was found. Her figure with prayerfully raised hands is depicted in a bowl. The find dates back to the 13th century and is considered one of the earliest images of this kind located on the territory of our country.

A description of another image corresponding to the image of the “Life-Giving Spring” of the 14th century can be found in the work of the church historian Nicephorus Callistus. He describes the image of the Mother of God in a phial, set over a pond. On this icon, the Blessed Virgin is depicted with the Christ Child in her arms.

The fresco "Life-Giving Spring", located on Mount Athos, is also interesting. It belongs to the beginning of the 15th century. Its author, Andronicus the Byzantine, presented the Mother of God in a wide bowl with the blessing of the Eternal Child in her arms. The name of the image is written in Greek text along the edges of the fresco. Also, a similar plot is found in some icons stored in various monasteries of Athos.

Help poured out through this image

But still, what is the unique appeal of this image, what is it that attracts people to the icon of the Mother of God “Life-Giving Spring”? How does it help and what does it keep? First of all, this image brings healing to all those who suffer bodily and in their prayers to those who hope for the help of the Queen of Heaven. It was from this that his glorification began in ancient Byzantium. By this he won love and gratitude, finding himself among the expanses of Russia.

In addition, the icon successfully heals mental illnesses. But the main thing is that it saves those who resort to it from the harmful passions that so often overwhelm our souls. It is from their influence that the "Life-Giving Spring" - the icon of the Mother of God - saves. What do they pray before her, what do they ask the Queen of Heaven for? First of all, about giving strength to cope with all the low and vicious that is inherent in us by human nature damaged by original sin. Unfortunately, there is much that exceeds human capabilities and in which we are powerless without the help of the Lord God and His Most Pure Mother.

Source of Life and Truth

In all cases, no matter what compositional decision the author of this or that version of this image stops at, it should first of all be understood that the Life-giving source is the Most Pure Virgin herself, through whom the One who gave life to all beings on earth was incarnated into the world.

He spoke the words that became the stone on which the temple of the true faith was erected, He revealed to people the way, and the truth, and life. And that blessed Life-giving source, the jets of which washed from sin and watered the Divine field, became for all of us the Queen of Heaven, the Blessed Virgin Mary.

All Christian icons have their own unique stories of creation or acquisition and a secret meaning. Many of them, including the icon of the Life-Giving Spring, depict the Virgin Mary and the Infant Savior.

Without faith, our lives would turn into chaos and disorder. Icons help us find the strength in ourselves to move on when it seems that everything has collapsed or is moving towards it. Icons should be in every home: when a person cannot visit the temple, he can pray in front of the icon, establishing contact with God.

History of the icon

The history of the “Life-Giving Source” image is rooted in the distant past. In the 5th century, a life-giving, miraculous spring was found in Constantinople. This place was consecrated, because the grove where the spring was located was sown in honor of the Virgin. Many people have found healing by drinking holy water that springs from the very earth itself.

Subsequently, the source almost dried up, and over time it completely turned into an abandoned place. In the 6th century, in honor of the miraculous land from which water flowed, a temple was built and a monastery attached to it. Later, the first icon dedicated to this land was invented and painted. They dedicated the icon to the Mother of God, as it is a symbol of purity and goodness, humility and chastity. This image was very popular and famous, but was later forgotten, and then restored again. He was honored in Russia throughout history.

Description of the icon

The very place where the source was located is depicted on the icon. The Mother of God sits in the Holy Chalice, holding the Christ Child in her arms. Holy water pours from the Chalice - a symbol of pure faith and salvation. Below, near the Chalice, are depicted people who drink or draw water into vessels. Sometimes this icon is attributed to the feast of Epiphany, although in fact it has nothing to do with Baptism. There are many variants of the icon, but in general they are all very similar. Now in many churches in Russia there are icons of the "Life-Giving Spring", but it is mainly associated with the temple that was built on the miraculous place where there was a holy spring.

What does the icon help with?

This icon saves the house from trouble, from all misfortune and evil people. If you are sick, then you can put this icon next to the bed in order to find salvation and improve your health as quickly as possible.

This is a miraculous icon, since in the annals there is a lot of evidence of how people healed serious ailments by applying to the image: blindness, weakness, incurable diseases, infertility. This happened not only in the 5th-6th centuries, but also later, when they were only talking about that wonderful place. That temple was destroyed and built three times in history, but the icon of the "Life-Giving Spring" has always been and will be miraculous, regardless of where it is located.

Days of veneration of the icon

Day of veneration of the icon "Life-Giving Spring" - April 15. At the divine service, miracles connected with the holy image are remembered that took place in the 5th century on the site where the Constantinople Church now stands. It still contains one of the oldest icons. This is a sacred place that must be visited if possible.

Prayers to the icon "Life-Giving Spring"

Before this icon, you can read any prayers for the coming dream and in the morning, prayers for the salvation of the soul, for health. This is a universal image that does not have any connection to events or the theme of prayers. Despite this, there is a prayer that can be read on April 15 in honor of finding that sacred source:

“Our Lady Mother of God, chosen from all generations, giving us grace-filled help, we praise you. You are our blessed Mother of God, pour out Your great and rich mercies on us, heal our ailments and quench our heavy sorrows, let us thank You for this: Rejoice, Mistress, pouring out the Life-giving Source to your faithful people.

The Virgin Mary personifies an insatiable source of goodness, light and forgiveness for all of us, so this icon is not just evidence of a miracle that happened one and a half thousand years ago. This is something more, because this image tells us that the life-giving source is always with us. It feeds us every second of our lives. This is one of the best icons to have at home. Good luck and don't forget to press the buttons and

13.05.2017 05:49

Among the holy miraculous icons of the Mother of God, the image “Unexpected Joy” is especially revered. Prayer in front of this icon is capable of ...

All the days of Bright Week appear before us as a single bright Easter day. Friday of Bright Week stands out in particular: the fact that on this day, for the first time after the Great Hagiasma for the Epiphany, the blessing of water is performed in all the churches of the Russian Orthodox Church, and the fact that in the very liturgical rite of this day, hymns of service to the icon of the Mother of God are added to the Paschal stichera and troparia " Life-Giving Source. The appearance of this image is associated with the following miraculous event.

In the 5th century, there was a grove near Constantinople, dedicated, according to legend, to the Most Holy Theotokos. In this grove there was a spring, long glorified by miracles, but gradually overgrown with bushes and mud. In 450, the warrior Leo Markell, the future emperor, met a lost blind man in this place, helped him get out onto the path and settle in the shade. In search of water for an exhausted traveler, he heard the voice of the Virgin, commanding to find an overgrown source and anoint the eyes of a blind man with mud. When Leo obeyed the command, the blind man immediately received his sight. The Mother of God also predicted to Leo that he would become emperor, and seven years later this prediction came true.

Having become emperor, Leo Markell remembered the appearance and prediction of the Mother of God and ordered to clean the source, surround it with a stone circle and erect a temple in honor of the Mother of God on it. The holy key was called by the emperor “Life-giving source. The icon of the Mother of God, painted for the new church, was also named in the same way.

In the future, this temple was repeatedly rebuilt and decorated. But after the fall of Constantinople, it was destroyed by the Muslims. And only in 1834-1835. an Orthodox church was again erected over the Life-Giving Spring.

It just so happened that all the famous monasteries of Constantinople were rebuilt into mosques or are now in ruins. And the small one standing on the source is still alive. For one and a half thousand years, people have been coming to the place, which the Turks called "Balykly", and collecting water in bottles. Closets are arranged around the source, where the sick are poured; Greeks, Turks, Turkish women, Armenians, Catholics constantly come to the water - everyone asks the Queen of Heaven with tears and accepts healing. The Mohammedans involuntarily confess the Mother of God and say: “Great in wives is St. Maria!" and call the water: “St. Maria"

A Thessalian from his youth had a strong desire to visit the Life-Giving Spring. Finally, he managed to set off, but on the way he fell seriously ill. Feeling the approach of death, the Thessalian took a word from his companions so that they would not betray him to burial, but would take the body to the Life-Giving Spring, where they poured three vessels with life-giving water on it, and only after that they buried it. His wish was fulfilled, and life returned to the Thessalian at the Life-Giving Spring. He accepted monasticism and spent in piety last days life.

Iconographically, the image of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring" is associated with the ancient Byzantine image of the type "Nicopeia Kyriotissa" - "Mistress the Victorious", which, in turn, goes back to the image of the "Sign" type.

Initially, the image of the "Life-Giving Source" was distributed in the lists without the image of the source. Such is the Blachernae miraculous image, made of marble, located near the imperial baths. It depicts the Mother of God, from whose hands holy water flows? "agiasma". Later, a cup (phiale) was included in the composition. In later times, they also began to depict a reservoir and a fountain on the icon.

In Russia, over time, the composition of the icon "Life-Giving Spring" is gradually becoming more complex. A wooden well appears, from which a water jet beats, on the sides of it are depicted the ecumenical saints Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian and John Chrysostom. They draw life-giving water and distribute it to people standing around. In the foreground are depicted obsessed with various ailments.

Gradually, the composition of the icon became so complicated that the independent image of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring" became only a component in the overall complex composition. So, in 1668, the famous Russian icon painter Simon Ushakov, with one of his students, painted the icon of the Life-Giving Spring “with miracles”. In sixteen hallmarks, he depicted the miracles of the Mother of God, performed at the Life-Giving Spring.

The icon of the Most Holy Theotokos "Life-Giving Spring" was deeply revered in Russia. In the Sarov desert, a temple was erected in honor of this icon. Those sick pilgrims whom Reverend Seraphim Sarovsky sent to pray before the miraculous icon of the Mother of God, received healing from her.

The concept of springs as a symbol of the Mother of God's help and the grace of God is quite ancient. On many Mother of God icons, for example, "The Driver", Zhirovitskaya, the icon of the Annunciation of the Mother of God at the well, the image of the source is invariably present. And each icon of the Mother of God in this broad sense can be called the "Life-Giving Spring", meaning the Mother of God's help and Her rich mercy.

Even though history has kept the exact date events of the appearance of the Mother of God to Leo Markellus (April 4 (O.S.) 450), the real celebration of the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring" is set to take place on Friday of Bright Week, when the renewal of the Constantinople Church of the Life-Giving Spring is celebrated and the great miracles that occurred in this temple.

Since the 16th century, a custom similar to the Greek one has been established in Russia, to consecrate springs located in monasteries and near them, to dedicate them to the Mother of God and to paint icons of the Mother of God, called the “Life-Giving Spring”.

Lists from the miraculous icon "Life-Giving Spring" are in the Sarov Hermitage; Astrakhan, Urzhum, Vyatka diocese; in a chapel near Solovetsky Monastery; Lipetsk, Tambov diocese. An excellent image is placed in the Moscow Novodevichy Convent.

In the village of Vorobyevo near Moscow (Vorobyovy Gory) since the 16th century there was a wooden church at the royal palace in honor of the icon of the Mother of God "The Life-Giving Spring", "furnished with exceptional luxury." It probably owes its name to the numerous underground springs flowing along the slopes of the Sparrow Hills. Over time, due to dilapidation, it was repeatedly rebuilt, having existed until the beginning of the 19th century, after which it was abolished. Today, its existence is reminded by the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring", located to the left of the Royal Doors in the temple Life-Giving Trinity on Sparrow Hills - the only remaining of the 4 temples of the village of Vorobyevo.

Troparion, tone 4
Today, by the faith of faithfulness to the Divine and wholesome image of the Most Holy Theotokos, pouring out drops of her outpourings, and showing miracles to the faithful people, even we see and hear spiritually celebrate and kindly cry out: heal our ailments and passions, as if you healed the Karkin and numerous passions; we also pray to Thee, the Most Pure Virgin, pray to Christ our God, incarnated from You, that our souls be saved.

Troparion, tone 4
Let us draw, people, healing souls and bodies with prayer, the River flows for everyone - the Most Pure Queen of the Mother of God, exuding wonderful water for us and washing out the hearts of blackness *, cleansing sinful scabs, but sanctifying the souls of the faithful with Divine grace.

Kontakion, tone 8
From the inexhaustible You, the Source of God-grace, give me, sharpen, the water of Your grace, ever-flowing more than words, as if the Word gave birth to more than meaning, pray, sprinkle me with grace, and I call Thee: rejoice, saving water.

Description of the icon of the Mother of God "LIFE-GIVING SOURCE":

In the 5th century in Constantinople, near the so-called Golden Gates, there was a grove dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos. There was a spring in the grove, glorified by miracles for a long time. Gradually, this place was overgrown with shrubs, and the water was covered with mud.

Once the warrior Leo Markell, the future emperor, met in this place a blind man, a helpless traveler who had lost his way. The lion helped him out onto the path and settled in the shade to rest, while he himself went in search of water to refresh the blind man. Suddenly he heard a voice:

"A lion! Don't look far for water, it's close here."

Surprised by the mysterious voice, he began to look for water, but did not find it. When he stopped in sadness and thoughtfulness, the same voice rang out a second time:

"King Lion! Go under the canopy of this grove, draw the water that you find there, and give it to the thirsty one, put the mud that you find in the source on his eyes. Then you will know who I am that sanctifies this place. I will help you soon erect a temple here in My name, and all who come here in faith and call on My name will receive the fulfillment of their prayers and complete healing from ailments.

When Leo fulfilled everything commanded, the blind man immediately regained his sight and went to Constantinople without a guide, glorifying the Mother of God. This miracle took place under the emperor Marcian (391-457).

Emperor Marcian was replaced by Leo Markell (457-473). He remembered the appearance and prediction of the Mother of God, ordered to clean the source and enclose it in a stone circle, over which a temple was built in honor of the Most Holy Theotokos. Emperor Leo called this spring the “Life-Giving Spring”, since the miraculous grace of the Mother of God manifested itself in it.

Emperor Justinian the Great (527-565) was a man deeply committed to Orthodox faith. He suffered from water sickness for a long time. One day at midnight he heard a voice: "You cannot regain your health unless you drink from My well." The king did not know what source the voice was talking about, and fell into despondency. Then the Mother of God appeared to him in the afternoon and said: “Get up, king, go to My spring, drink water from it and you will be healthy as before.” The patient fulfilled the will of the Lady and soon recovered. The grateful emperor erected a new splendid temple near the temple built by Leo, at which a crowded monastery was subsequently created.

In the XV century, the famous temple of the "Life-Giving Spring" was destroyed by Muslims. A Turkish guard was assigned to the ruins of the temple, who did not allow anyone to approach this place. Gradually, the severity of the ban softened, and the Christians built a small church there. But it was also destroyed in 1821, and the source was filled up. The Christians again cleared the ruins, opened the source and still drew water from it. Subsequently, in one window, among the wreckage, a sheet half-rotten from time and dampness was found with a record of ten miracles from the Life-Giving Spring, which took place from 1824 to 1829. Under Sultan Mahmud, the Orthodox received some freedom in worship. They used it to erect a temple for the third time over the Life-Giving Spring. In 1835, with great solemnity, Patriarch Konstantin, concelebrated by 20 bishops and with a large number of pilgrims, consecrated the temple; a hospital and an almshouse were set up at the temple.

A Thessalian from his youth had a strong desire to visit the Life-Giving Spring. Finally, he managed to set off, but on the way he fell seriously ill. Feeling the approach of death, the Thessalian took a word from his companions so that they would not betray him to burial, but would take the body to the Life-Giving Spring, where they poured three vessels with life-giving water on it, and only after that they buried it. His wish was fulfilled, and life returned to the Thessalian at the Life-Giving Spring. He accepted monasticism and spent the last days of his life in piety.

The appearance of the Mother of God to Leo Marcellus took place on April 4, 450. On this day, and also every year on Friday of Bright Week, the Orthodox Church celebrates the renovation of the Constantinople church in honor of the Life-Giving Spring. According to the charter, on this day, the rite of consecration of water is performed with an Easter procession.

The Most Holy Theotokos with the Divine Infant is depicted on the icon above a large stone bowl standing in a pond. Near a reservoir filled with life-giving water, those suffering from bodily ailments, passions and mental infirmities are depicted. They all drink this life-giving water and receive various healings.

The icon of the Most Holy Theotokos "Life-Giving Spring" was deeply revered in Russia. In the Sarov desert, a temple was erected in honor of this icon. Those sick pilgrims whom St. Seraphim of Sarov sent to pray before the miraculous icon of the Mother of God received healing from her.

On Friday of Bright Week, after the Liturgy in Orthodox churches, a water-blessed prayer service is usually performed before the icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring". With the water consecrated at this prayer service, believers sprinkle their gardens and kitchen gardens, calling on the help of the Lord and His Most Pure Mother to give the harvest.

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Before the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos "Life-Giving Spring" they pray for the preservation of a righteous life, for the healing of bodily and mental ailments, passions, for help in sorrow.

Prayer to the Most Holy Theotokos in front of Her icon, called the "Life-Giving Spring"

Oh, Blessed Virgin, All-merciful Lady Lady Theotokos, Thy Life-Giving Source, healing gifts for the health of our souls and bodies and for the salvation of the world sharpening, Thou hast given us, the same thankful being, we earnestly pray to Thee, the Most Holy Queen, pray for Your Son and our God to give us forgiveness of sins and mercy and consolation to every soul that is grieving and embittered, and deliverance from troubles, sorrows and illnesses. Grant, Madam, protection to this temple and these people (and observance of this holy monastery), preservation of the city, deliverance and protection to our country from misfortunes, let us live a peaceful life here, and in the future we will be able to see You our Intercessor, in the glory of the Kingdom of Your Son and our God. To Him be glory and power with the Father and the Most Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen.

Troparion to the Most Holy Theotokos in front of Her icon, called the "Life-Giving Spring"

Troparion, tone 4

Today, by the faith of faithfulness to the Divine and wholesome image of the Most Holy Theotokos, pouring out drops of her outpourings, and showing miracles to the faithful people, even we see and hear spiritually celebrate and kindly cry out: heal our ailments and passions, as if you healed the Karkin and numerous passions; we also pray to Thee, the Most Pure Virgin, pray to Christ our God, incarnated from You, that our souls be saved.

Troparion, tone 4

Let us draw, people, healing souls and bodies with prayer, the River foreshadows all - the Most Pure Queen of the Mother of God, exuding wonderful water for us and washing away the hearts of blackness *, cleansing sinful scabs, but sanctifying the souls of the faithful with Divine grace.

* Blackness is a property of black, meaning sinfulness.

Kontakion, tone 8

From the inexhaustible You, the Source of God-grace, give me, sharpen, the water of Your grace, ever-flowing more than words, as if the Word gave birth to more than meaning, pray, sprinkle me with grace, and I call Thee: rejoice, saving water.

magnificence

We magnify Thee, Blessed Virgin, and honor Your holy image, heal our sickness and raise our souls to God.

Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos BEFORE HER ICON NAMED "LIFE-GIVING SOURCE"

Kondak 1
Chosen from all generations to the Lady Theotokos, who shows grace-filled help to us, let us commendably describe Thy servants to the Theotokos. You, as if Presiding the Mother of God, pour out on us Your great and rich mercy, heal our ailments and quench our sorrows, but we call You thanksgiving: Rejoice, Lady, Life-giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Ikos 1
The archangel and the angel are perplexed by many, It is reasonable for you from God the Word, who established the earth on the waters, praise according to your property. But we, the Most Honorable Cherubim, and the Most Glorious Seraphim without comparison, in tenderness for Your good deeds that have been upon us, dare to call You: Rejoice, Lady, chosen by God the Father; Rejoice, blessed with the Holy Spirit. Rejoice, exalted one with the birth of the Son of God; Rejoice, blessed in women. Rejoice, Mother of God magnified; Rejoice, blessed from all generations. Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 2
Seeing, Most Merciful Mother, blind from the thirst of the afflicted, Source of living water for drinking and healing for the sake of the governor, wandering in the desert, you showed: he thankfully cry out to You: Alleluia.

Ikos 2
Understanding Your Divine voice, governor, pointing the source of water, and knowing it like the Font of Siloam, it will not only give water to the thirsty, but also frees him from blindness, we are looking for Your mercy, we cry out to You: Rejoice, Mistress, painting the font of salvation; Rejoice, healer of spiritual and bodily blindness. Rejoice, weakened affirmation; Rejoice, lame walking. Rejoice, Mother of Light, who opens the eyes of the blind; Rejoice, thou who illumines those who sit in the darkness with the light of truth. Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 3
The power of the Most High overshadows all who flow with faith and reverence to Your Life-Giving Source, Most Pure Lady Mistress. By the power of the Most High, fall us, the Mother of God, humbly falling to You and crying prayerfully: Alleluia.

Ikos 3
Have the wealth of mercy inexpressible, to all the sick Mistress, Your helping hand, healing ailments, healing passions, we find in Your Life-giving Source: for this sake we cry out to You: Rejoice, Source of unceasing joy; Rejoice, Cup of unspeakable goodness. Rejoice, treasure of grace that is not scarce; Rejoice, you who always give mercy to those who ask. Rejoice, healing of various ailments. Rejoice, satisfaction of our sorrows; Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 4
The blind man is embarrassed by a storm of bewilderment, looking for water to quench his thirst. And behold, as of old, by the power of God, water flowed from the stone: so now in the waterless desert the source has appeared, there Moses, the source of water: here are you, O Bogomati, a servant of miracles, the same we pray: thirsty for our souls of piety, give water to drink, yes we call you: Alleluia.

Ikos 4
Hearing the voivode your wondrous voice, Mother of Mercy, pointing the source of water, about the hedgehog thirsty to drink and heal blindness pointing, and the event of words is sighted, cry out to the sister: Rejoice, Lady, comforting the sufferers; Rejoice, restorer of the sick. Rejoice, giving words to the dumb; Rejoice, healer of all the weak. Rejoice, help to those in need; Rejoice, consolation to the discouraged. Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 5
Divine water from Your Life-Giving Source, pouring out currents of grace, scooping for the healing of mental and bodily ailments, Virgin Mother of God, with a grateful cry to You: Alleluia.

Ikos 5
Seeing the people of the blind, with the water of Your Life-giving Source, who has seen through, the Mother of God, rushing with songs like gifts to serve You: Rejoice, Lady, who opens the door of mercy to the faithful; Rejoice, thou who does not put to shame those who trust in Thee. Rejoice, consoling the distressed; Rejoice, freeing from adversity. Rejoice, strengthener of the weary; Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 6
The preaching of Thy miracle, Mother of God, be the governor, as if the blind man is wondrous with water from Thy Life-Giving Source, enlighten us, the dark apples of the soul, and enlighten us, and thankfully preach Thy mercy calling: Alleluia.

Ikos 6
Ascension to us Thy Life-Giving Source, Most Merciful Mother, exuding the manifold grace of Thy Son and Our God, Christ the Life-giver. For this sake, we bring Ty singing: Rejoice, Mistress, our zealous Intercessor; Rejoice, guardian of the temples of God. Rejoice, most glorious Abbess of the holy monasteries; Rejoice, admonition to those who labor in monasticism. Rejoice, strengthening of monks in obedience; Rejoice, cover and protection of all the Khistians. Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 7
Wanting the pious Lion of the Governor, Tsar Thee, the Mistress, appointed, thankful to bring Thee, arrange a temple at the place of Thy appearance, arrange a miracle, the Life-Giving Spring, naming it, that all Thy possessions may find here, crying out to Thee: Alleluia.

Ikos 7
The new font of Siloam, more than the ancient ones, appear, Most Pure Lady, Thy temple, in Nemzha we worship the icon of the Life-Giving Source, for not one in the summer and only the first to enter the health of the body, but I will take out every ailment of the soul and body, heal. For this sake, we cry out to You: Rejoice, font, in which our sorrows are immersed; Rejoice, cup of joy, in which our sorrows dissolve. Rejoice, stone, thirsty for life; Rejoice, tree, sweetening the bitter waters of the sea of ​​life. Rejoice, life-giving water source is not depleted; Rejoice, bath, our sinful filth, washing our conscience. Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 8
A strange and glorious miracle has appeared in the temple of Your Life-Giving Source, Mother of God, in which spiritual and bodily thirst is quenched, and diseases of obsession are healed. We are the grace of such a glorifying cry to Ty: Alleluia.

Ikos 8
All of you, with faith coming to Your Life-Giving Source, give, Merciful to the Lady Theotokos. For all of these, we thankfully cry out to You: Rejoice, Lady, Who incarnated the Incorporeal; Rejoice, consolation of suffering mothers. Rejoice, child of motherless protection; Rejoice, young mentor. Rejoice, upbringing of babies: Rejoice, Mistress, Life-giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 9
All angelic and human nature marvels at Your mercy, Blessed Virgin, as always and to everyone you are the Helper and Intercessor, who sing to You: Alleluia.

Ikos 9
Vetii multicasting cannot worthily sing of the Life-giving Source of Thy inexhaustible grace, below explain the power of Thy miracles for the healing of the sick and for every benefit of the soul and body of a person, we will sing praiseworthy to You: Rejoice, Temple of the Living God; Rejoice, home of the Holy Spirit. Rejoice, Glory to the Angels; Rejoice, sovereignty of the universe. Rejoice, salvation of the world; Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 10
To save even all those who suffer, the source of life was revealed to the world, Most Holy Theotokos, in the waters of grace, but all in sorrows and sorrows accepting healing and comfort, we gratefully call you: Alleluia.

Ikos 10
The wall and cover in troubles and needs of Your help to those who ask the creature, the Lady of the World, the Life-Giving Source showed you to everyone, may there be protection from all diseases, consolation in misfortunes and sorrows, crying You such: Rejoice, Mistress, pacification of the proud and obstinate people; Rejoice, suppression of evil and evil intentions. Rejoice, intercession of the offended; Rejoice, those who offend understanding. Rejoice, guilty punishment; Rejoice, excuse for the innocent. Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 11
We bring the singing of all tenderness before Your Life-Giving Source, packs and packs, to You, Mother of God, in repentance calling from the depths of the soul: Mistress, accept the prayers of Your servant and deliver us from all sorrow and illness, need and sorrow, and cry out to God about You: Alleluia.

Ikos 11
Your Divine Source, Most Holy Theotokos, shines like a luminous candle in the world with rays of grace, enlightening minds and hearts with miracles manifested and instructing you to call: Rejoice, Mistress, enlightenment of minds; Rejoice, purification of our hearts. Rejoice, renewal of the spirit; Rejoice, soul sanctification. Rejoice, strengthening of health; Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 12
We have recourse to Your grace, the Life-Giving Source, Blessed Virgin, as if to an indestructible wall and intercession, look with mercy, Most Holy Theotokos, on our fierce bitterness and heal our souls and bodies of our sorrows and illnesses, let us call you: Alleluia.

Ikos 12
Singing Thy miracles, we praise and glorify Thy Life-giving Source, Most Holy Virgin, from worthless drawing currents of many different graces, we magnify Thy praises with chintz: Rejoice, God-chosen Maiden; Rejoice, Holy Bride. Rejoice, blessed in women; Rejoice, exalted above the heavens. Rejoice, you who are coming to the throne of the Lord; Rejoice, our Intercessor, always praying for the world. Rejoice, Lady, Life-Giving Source pouring out the faithful.

Kondak 13
Oh, All-Singing Mother, Who gave Your Life-Giving Source to the world, pour out great and rich mercy from us, accept this prayer of thanksgiving, grant us the source of the life of the present and future: let us call you: Alleluia.

The warrior Leo, who later became emperor (455-473), met a blind man in a grove dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos, who asked for water. Leo could not find a water source for a long time, when suddenly he heard the voice of the Most Holy Theotokos, who pointed him to the source and ordered to put mud from those waters on the blind man's eyes. After that, the blind man regained his sight, and the warrior, becoming emperor, wondering and rejoicing at the miraculous healing, ordered to clean the source and erected a temple in its place. The temple was named - evidence of the miraculous power of the source.

After the fall of Constantinople, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt only in 1834-1835.

In memory of this miracle, on the day of the Icon of the Mother of God of the Life-Giving Spring, a small consecration of water is performed - it occurs several times during the year, a great consecration of water is performed only on the feast of Baptism (Theophany)

Iconographically, the image of the Mother of God, the Life-Giving Source, goes back to the Byzantine image of the Mistress of the Victorious type, which in turn goes back to the image of the Sign type. Initially, the icon of the Life-Giving Spring was transmitted in lists without an image of the source, later a bowl (phiale) was included in the composition, and later also a reservoir and a fountain.

On Bright Week, the service is filled with joyful Easter hymns, fasting is canceled on Wednesday and Friday, the entire Liturgy is served with the Royal Doors open, and after each liturgy a procession is performed.

On the same day, at the Liturgy, the Gospel about the expulsion of the merchants from the temple is read.

Appearance of the Icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring"

In the 5th century in Constantinople, near the so-called Golden Gates, there was a grove dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos. There was a spring in the grove, glorified by miracles for a long time. Gradually, this place was overgrown with shrubs, and the water was covered with mud.

Icon of the Mother of God “Life-Giving Spring”

Once the warrior Leo Markell, the future emperor, met in this place a blind man, a helpless traveler who had lost his way. The lion helped him out onto the path and settled in the shade to rest, while he himself went in search of water to refresh the blind man. Suddenly he heard a voice: “Lion! Don't look far for water, it's close here." Surprised by the mysterious voice, he began to look for water, but did not find it. When he stopped in sadness and thoughtfulness, the same voice was heard for the second time: “King Lion! Go under the canopy of this grove, draw the water that you find there, and give it to the thirsty one, put the mud that you find in the source on his eyes. Then you will know who I am that sanctifies this place. I will help you soon erect a temple here in My name, and all who come here in faith and call on My name will receive the fulfillment of their prayers and complete healing from ailments. When Leo fulfilled everything commanded, the blind man immediately regained his sight and went to Constantinople without a guide, glorifying the Mother of God. This miracle took place under the emperor Marcian (391-457).

Emperor Marcian was replaced by Leo Markell (457-473). He remembered the appearance and prediction of the Mother of God, ordered to clean the source and enclose it in a stone circle, over which a temple was built in honor of the Most Holy Theotokos. Emperor Leo called this spring the “Life-Giving Spring”, since the miraculous grace of the Mother of God manifested itself in it.

Emperor Justinian the Great (527-565) was a man deeply committed to the Orthodox faith. He suffered from water sickness for a long time. One day at midnight, he heard a voice saying, "You cannot regain your health unless you drink from My well." The king did not know what source the voice was talking about, and fell into despondency. Then the Mother of God appeared to him already in the afternoon and said: “Get up, king, go to My spring, drink water from it and you will be healthy as before.” The patient fulfilled the will of the Lady and soon recovered. The grateful emperor erected a new splendid temple near the temple built by Leo, at which a crowded monastery was subsequently created.

In the XV century, the famous temple of the "Life-Giving Spring" was destroyed by Muslims. A Turkish guard was assigned to the ruins of the temple, who did not allow anyone to approach this place. Gradually, the severity of the ban softened, and the Christians built a small church there. But it was also destroyed in 1821, and the source was filled up. The Christians again cleared the ruins, opened the source and still drew water from it. Subsequently, in one window, among the wreckage, a sheet half-rotten from time and dampness was found with a record of ten miracles from the Life-Giving Spring, which took place from 1824 to 1829. Under Sultan Mahmud, the Orthodox received some freedom in worship. They used it to erect a temple for the third time over the Life-Giving Spring. In 1835, with great solemnity, Patriarch Konstantin, concelebrated by 20 bishops and with a large number of pilgrims, consecrated the temple; a hospital and an almshouse were set up at the temple.

A Thessalian from his youth had a strong desire to visit the Life-Giving Spring. Finally, he managed to set off, but on the way he fell seriously ill. Feeling the approach of death, the Thessalian took a word from his companions so that they would not betray him to burial, but would take the body to the Life-Giving Spring, where they poured three vessels with life-giving water on it, and only after that they buried it. His wish was fulfilled, and life returned to the Thessalian at the Life-Giving Spring. He accepted monasticism and spent the last days of his life in piety.

The appearance of the Mother of God to Leo Marcellus took place on April 4, 450. On this day, and also annually on Friday of Bright Week Orthodox Church celebrates the renewal of the Constantinople church in honor of the Life-Giving Spring. According to the charter, on this day, the rite of consecration of water is performed with an Easter procession.

The Most Holy Theotokos with the Divine Infant is depicted on the icon above a large stone bowl standing in a pond. Near a reservoir filled with life-giving water, those suffering from bodily ailments, passions and mental infirmities are depicted. They all drink this life-giving water and receive various healings.

Troparion to the Icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring"

Let us draw, people, healing souls and bodies with prayer, the River flows for everyone - the Most Pure Queen of the Mother of God, exuding wonderful water for us and washing away the hearts of blackness, cleansing sinful scabs, but sanctifying the souls of the faithful with Divine grace.

Prayer before the Icon of the Mother of God "Life-Giving Spring"

O Blessed Virgin, Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ! You are Mati and the patroness of all who resort to You, look with mercy on the prayers of Your sinful and humble children. You, who are called the Life-giving Source of grace-filled healings, heal the sicknesses of the afflicted and implore Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to send down and all those who flow to You, spiritual and bodily health, and, having forgiven us our voluntary and involuntary sins, grants us everything even to eternal and temporal life is needed. You are the joy of all those who mourn, hear us, the mournful; You are the quenching of sorrow, quench our sorrow; You are the exaction of the lost, do not let us perish in the abyss of our sins, but always deliver us from all sorrows and misfortunes and all evil circumstances. She, our Queen, favoring, our indestructible hope and invincible intercessor, do not turn Your face away from us for our many transgressions, but stretch out to us the hand of Your motherly mercy and create with us a sign of Your mercy for good: show us Your help and prosper in every deed good. Turn us away from every sinful undertaking and evil thought, may we always glorify Your honorable name, magnifying God the Father and the Son of the Only Begotten Lord Jesus Christ and the Life-giving Holy Spirit with all the saints forever and ever. Amen.