Theotokos Prayer — Prayer to the Mother of God
The Theotokos Prayer is one of the most beloved and powerful prayers in the Orthodox tradition. The Mother of God intercedes for us before her Son, and prayer to her brings comfort, protection, and healing.
What Is the Theotokos Prayer?
Theotokos (Greek: Θεοτόκος) means "God-bearer" or "Mother of God." The Theotokos prayer is a petition to the Virgin Mary to intercede for us before her Son, Jesus Christ. In the Orthodox and Eastern Catholic traditions, she is honored as the most blessed of all creation, and her prayers are considered exceptionally powerful.
The Most Powerful Theotokos Prayer
Prayer to the Mother of God:
O Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Virgin Mother of God, rejoice, O Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, for thou hast borne the Savior of our souls.
O Most Holy Mother of God, protect us under thy merciful wings. Intercede for us before thy Son, that we may be delivered from all evil, illness, and sorrow. We place our hope in thee, O Mother of God — never abandon us, now and always, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
When to Pray the Theotokos Prayer
The Theotokos prayer is prayed in many situations: in the morning for protection through the day, before surgery or travel, in times of fear or anxiety, for the health of children and family, during difficult decisions, and in gratitude after prayers are answered. Many people pray it daily as a spiritual shield.
Theotokos Prayer and a Candle
In Orthodox tradition, prayer is often accompanied by lighting a candle — a symbol of the soul's offering to God. You can order a candle online with the Theotokos prayer: we will light it in a church and send you a photo in Telegram, so you can see your prayer is being offered.
Order a candle lit with the Theotokos prayer — we will send you photo proof
Order a candle online →