4/28/2021
Archimandrite Ilya (Reyzmir)
The Theotokos was first called “Champion Leader” in the Akathist composed in her honor in the seventh century under Emperor Heraclius, in gratitude for deliverance from enemies who had besieged Constantinople from land and sea.
The cursing of the fig tree shows us that just as there is a time for mercy and patience, so there is a time for judgment and punishment.
Let us be faithful children of the Holy Orthodox Church; let us fervently honor her holy icon and pray to her. Then no sorrow of this world can destroy the peace and calm of our souls, and no sadness will be able to deprive us of heavenly joy.
Brothers and sisters, let us penetrate into the mysteries of love revealed by Christ at this Supper.
Now many churches and monasteries have been restored and opened, but the Lavra was, is and will be the heart of Orthodoxy in Russia. It has a special mission.
