This is the icon of the Mother of God Smolenskaya.

The image of this icon is made using a high-quality polygraphic machine, pasted on a wooden base. The icons are produced at a Monastery by an official icon maker of the Russian Orthodox Church in the village of Sofrino, Russia.

Size: height -4 3/4”

width – 3 3/4”

The icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary called “Hodegetria-Smolenskaya” has been known in Russia since ancient times. Under what circumstances this icon appeared in Russia, not enough clear information has been preserved. The icon of the Mother of God called “Smolenskaya” is a list with the “Hodegetria-Blachernae”, written according to the legend by the Holy Evangelist and Apostle Luke.

According to church tradition, once the Mother of God, appearing to two blind men, brought them to the Blachernae church, and placing them in front of Her icon, granted them sight. Since then, the icon began to be called Hodegetria, which is translated from Greek as Guide.

The holy icon of the Mother of God called “Smolenskaya” is one of the most important shrines of the Russian land. Believers have received and are receiving abundant, gracious help from her. The Mother of God, through His image, steps up and strengthens us, indicating the path to salvation.

The Mother of God Smolenskaya