What is the Holy Cincture?
The Holy Cincture (Belt) of Theotokos is the only relic that has survived from the time of the earthly presence of the Virgin Mary. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary herself wove the belt from camel hair. After her Assumption, during her transition to heaven, she handed it over to the Apostle Thomas.
How does it help the faithful?
The Belt of the Virgin Mary blesses and supports couples who have difficulty having children, people fighting cancer and all other forms of illness. Our Lady, helps and protects all people who do not lose their faith and entrust their life to her maternal love.
Where is it located?
Today the Holy Belt is kept in Mount Athos, in the Holy Monastery of Vatopaidi. However, for many centuries, it has repeatedly left the athonite state in order to travel and give all the faithful the opportunity to venerate the grace of the Virgin Mary.
Pieces from the miraculous Belt of the Virgin Mary
In the Holy Monastery of Vatopaidi there is a tradition of preparing a small piece of cloth with a blessing from the Holy Belt of the Virgin Mary. Those are given to pilgrims who wish to take her grace with them. Thanks to these small pieces, a great number of miracles has been performed. Among other things, there are numerous cases of couples who were unable to have a child and who, thanks to the Virgin Mary, managed to become parents.
How to obtain a piece of the Holy Belt?
Many pilgrims visit Mount Athos in order to receive a part of the Holy Belt of the Virgin Mary. At the Holy Monastery of Vatopaidi, the monks prepare pieces of cloth with a blessing so that every believer can obtain them.
How to use the piece of the Holy Belt?
The blessed piece of cloth is usually tied around the waist. The believers keep it on them both during the day and at night. This method is mostly followed by women who wish to become mothers. Some tie the piece of cloth around their head or wrist.
When do we stop wearing the piece of the Holy Belt?
Since no washing of the fabric is needed, it should be worn with care and discretion. It can be removed at any time, if necessary, without this being considered a sin or a deviation from the rules. Usually, along with the piece of cloth, believers are provided with a small booklet describing what they need to know. However, the use of the cloth is subject to the will of the believer and the advice of his spiritual father.
