On November 15, Orthodox Christians honor the Shui-Smolensk Icon of the Virgin

The veneration of this image has a general church status. Although the history of the icon is associated with the Ivanovo land, its lists are in many dioceses. On the day of celebration, solemn services are held in churches, akathists are read and special prayers are offered for getting rid of ailments and troubles.

Divine services are performed according to the statutes: in the evening of November 14, an all-night vigil is served with the akathist of the Mother of God, and in the morning of November 15 - the Divine Liturgy and the festive prayer service.

To spend this day with the benefit of the soul will help a simple reminder. Visit the morning service in the temple, where there is a revered list of the icon, or order a prayer service for the health of relatives. If you can’t come to church, read a prayer or akathist at home. Provide all possible help to those in need: support elderly relatives, visit sick friends or participate in the charity gathering of the parish - deeds of mercy are inseparable from prayer. Spend the evening in a calm family atmosphere, avoiding quarrels and empty arguments.

The Church does not establish strict bans on household affairs on this day: November 15 does not fall on a multi-day fast, which begins on November 28. Therefore, ordinary food is allowed, and work and household chores are not prohibited, if they do not interfere with prayer.

For modern people, this holiday is a reminder of the power of conciliar prayer and mutual support in difficult times. In the seventeenth century, the inhabitants of one city were able to overcome the fear of a deadly disease through faith, unity and willingness to help each other. Knowledge of the history of the shrine helps to better understand Orthodox culture, eliminates superstitions around church dates and provides a clear guide for spiritual life and care for the health of loved ones.