Zhirovits Icon of the Mother of God

Christ is risen! Joyous feast! Today is the commemoration of the wonderworking Zhirovits Icon of the Mother of God, which was discovered shining radiantly on a tree by shepherds near the village of Zhirovitsa (today in western Belarus). More on the Zhirovits Icon's discovery and history can be found here. May the Theotokos' protection and intercessions be with us all!

This icon was somewhat dear to an old friend of mine whose family immigrated from Belarus, where its still widely venerated. He's no longer living, but whenever I see this icon I think of him - please remember in your prayers today God's servant Michael.