Panagia Paramythia: Mother of Consolation

The holy abbot of Vatopedia had remained to pray after Matins before the usual opening of the gates of the monastery. Unknown to him, pirates were waiting to attack and robe the monastery. Surprised, he heard these words coming from the icon of the Blessed Virgin, "Do not open the gates of the Monastery today, but go up on the walls and drive away the pirates."

The image came alive . The Christ Child raised His right arm to cover His Mother's mouth and gazed at Her with a very stern facial expression. He then said, "No, Mother, do not watch over this sinful flock. Let them be punished as they deserve because they do not keep their monastic duties."

Our Lady lifted Her Son's hand and moved Her face a little to the right, calmly repeating Her advice for a second time, "Do not open the doors of the Monastery today, go to the walls and rid the Monastery of the pirates and be sure to repent because my Son is angry with you."

The image became an icon again, now with this new configuration. The grateful monks name the icon "Paramythia", which means "calming down". It is usually displayed covered with silver except for the faces.

This miracle occurred on January 21, 807 on Mount Athos in Greece.