On the eve of the feast of the Protection of the Most-Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, we will celebrate an Akathist Service: Friday, Sept. 30, at 6:00. This short service commemorates a wondrous vision of the Theotokos spreading out her protecting veil over people who were in great danger. You can learn more of this feast here.

The service is a series of hymns praising the Virgin Mary as our heavenly champion and protector, lasting about half an hour. Here is a sample:

“O King of heaven,” spoke the all-pure Queen in prayer as she stood with the angels, “accept all who pray to You, calling upon my name for help, that they might not go away from my face empty and unheard.” Hearing this most good supplication, the assemblies of the saints cried in thanksgiving:

Hail! Crown with blessed fruits of farmers pure in hand and heart.

Hail! Succor and righteous rewarder of all those who honestly trade.

Hail! Reprover before all nations of those who do not keep their oaths and whose gains are unjust.

Hail! Unexpected helper of those in distress in their travels by land and sea.

Hail! For you make glad with the fruits of faith and the spirit all childless couples.

Hail! Unseen tutor of motherless orphans.

Hail! Strong defender of those in captivity and exile.

Hail! Ever-watchful guardian of those sitting in bonds and prison.

Hail! Our Joy, protect us from every ill by your precious veil.

Join us at 6:00 on Friday evening!