Panagia Giatrissa – Our Lady of Healing
The Virgin Mary holds a special place in the hearts of all Christians. She is a refuge and comfort for humanity, protecting and guarding our lives with her maternal love. Numerous churches, chapels, and cathedrals are dedicated to her name.
Among the many titles attributed to her, there are those of “Ever-Virgin,” “Theotokos,” and “Queen of Heaven,” as well as “Giatrissa” (the Healer), since she is believed to take care and heal the sick.
This title is also associated with a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, depicting her in her youthful years. The holy relic is enshrined in the church of Loutraki, Attica.
The Story of the Icon of the Virgin Mary
A woman named Maria used to visit the thermal springs in Loutraki every summer. She was a midwife and, returning from a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, she brought with her an icon of the Virgin Mary holding the Holy Infant. This icon was intended as a gift for the family that always hosted her during her stays.
In Jerusalem, the person who gave her the icon urged her to offer it to devout and faithful people. He instructed her that it should be honored and that a lamp should always be lit before it, saying that it was not merely a simple depiction but a miraculous relic.
Maria shared this story with her hostess, Maria Sokou. Twenty days later, she passed away in peace.
From 1928 onward, the icon began to be venerated not only in that specific household but throughout the entire village. The residents decided to build a small chapel dedicated to it.
Soon miracles and healings began to occur. The number of faithful who came to venerate the icon and ask for the Virgin’s help continued to grow. Eventually, a larger church was built, which still stands today.
In addition, in the mountains of Taygetus at an altitude of 1,100 meters, there is also a monastery dedicated to our Lady of Healing.
Prayer to Theotokos Giatrissa
Hail, All-Gracious and Blessed Virgin,
You heal every wounded and suffering heart.
I always call upon Your divine joy,
And those who seek the Sweet Mother are granted healing.
You are the loving Mother who holds no anger,
Queen of Queens, Lady of Healing.
Remember Your servant (name), who has painted You,
And if he is unskilled, You make him skilled.
I am the Healer called Maria,
And God named me Despina, the Holy Virgin.
O my Lady of Healing, our sweet Mother,
Whose angels carry out every command,
Grant every sick person who calls upon You
Health in body and soul.
The whole world seeks salvation,
And in the School of our Lady it finds blessing.
This school shall become renowned throughout the world,
And through great prayer we shall offer to each one
What their heart desires.
O spotless and undefiled Giatrissa,
Grant health to every sick body.
Amen.
