Today, November 28, is Giving Tuesday, a day when people take a moment to show their support for their favorite non-profit organizations.
Consistent with the message of the Theotokos to Euphymia, the sister of Patriarch Joachim (1674-1690), and its expression in the Joy of All Who Sorrow Icon, the members of our community seek the tender intercessions of the Mother of God on behalf of all those in need of healing in its many forms: spiritual, physical, emotional, intellectual, and relational. Will you help us in this work?
To donate to the Mother of God Joy of All Who Sorrow Orthodox Monastery, please use this direct link https://www.powr.io/checkout_screen?unique_label=1a900384_1585410263 or the PayPal button at the bottom of our homepage: Orthodox Monastery Monteagle Tennessee (monteaglemonastery.org).
History of the Joy of All Who Sorrow Icon
The wonderworking “Joy of All Who Sorrow” Icon of the Mother of God was glorified in the year 1688. Euphymia, the sister of Patriarch Joachim (1674-1690), lived in Moscow and suffered from an incurable illness for a long time. One morning during a time of prayer she heard a voice say, “Euphymia! Go to the temple of the Transfiguration of My Son; there you will find an icon called the ‘Joy of All Who Sorrow.’ Have the priest celebrate a Molieben with the blessing of water, and you will receive healing from sickness.” Euphymia did as she was directed by the Most Holy Theotokos, and she was healed. This occurred on October 24, 1688.
Meaning of the Icon
This icon depicts the Mother of God standing among the flowers of paradise with Christ - her Son and the King of Heaven and earth - visible above her in the clouds. Along both sides of the icon, are suppliants (us) asking for her intercession. She stands with her arms spread open and her head tilted as if listening. The tenderness and kindness of a loving mother are evident in her face. She stands in paradise and yet among us.
The first English language version of the icon, The Joy of All Who Sorrow, by the hand of Fr. Theodore Jurewicz of Erie, PA (1978).