As we continue to reflect on the various titles of Mary, let us pause today to reflect on a tender title given to Mary by Eastern Rite Catholics and Orthodox Churches, Theotokos or Mother of God. An important feast of Mary in the Eastern Rite Churches is the feast of the Protection of the Theotokos. This feast has been celebrated for many centuries. The image or icon often used in connection with this title and feast is that of Mary holding her veil out as if offering to cover us and shelter us. Just as the Theotokos tenderly held the child Jesus and tended his scrapes and bruises, just as she remained at the foot of the Cross to comfort her Son, so today she stands with us offering comfort and protection.
