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Richard Falco
The Myrrh-Streaming Icon of the Theotokos is considered one of the most sacred images in the Orthodox Church. The icon shows the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus. It is known for a phenomenon believers describe as miraculous: the icon has been reported to stream myrrh, a sweet-smelling oil. The oil is collected and used to anoint worshippers; many of whom say it has brought healing or answers to prayer. “We don’t really know why, but it is a phenomenon that we consider a sign from God,” said the Rev. Father George Coca. “It is a means of receiving His healing and mercy.”
People travel from many parishes to venerate the icon. A special service of praise and thanksgiving is held, and at one-point parishioners are anointed with myrrh before approaching the icon. Each person then has a private moment to stand before it, pray, and reflect. For many, the experience becomes a powerful moment of spiritual connection. After everyone has had the opportunity to venerate the icon, the congregation gathers for the Divine Liturgy. At the end of the service, the Eucharist is celebrated, in which leavened bread is consecrated as the Body of Christ. Blessed bread known as antidoron is also distributed to everyone present, including visitors and non-Orthodox guests. |
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