The Theotokos is always depicted on the first icon to the left
of the Royal Door. Theotokos is the name given to the Virgin Mary
and literally means "God- bearer". The Theotokos is accorded great
honor among Orthodox Christians. She is devotedly praised as "more
holy than all the saints". Her devotion to God through Her purity
is seen as that which allowed the Incarnation to take place, Her place
next to Christ being sealed by purity and devotion. Many appeal to
Her for interccession with the Lord: "Through the prayers of the
Theotokos, Savior, save us."
Photo by John Washinsky
Text by the Ken Mitchel Family
