Tambov (Utkino) Icon of the Mother of God

Commemorated on April 16.

The Tambov Icon became famous again, and when in 1835 the old Utkin church was severely damaged. At the request of the townspeople, the right side altar was consecrated in honor of the Tambov Icon of the Mother of God. With the passage of time, the grateful Tambov residents adorned the Icon with a luxurious silver-gilt riza with many precious stones. There were so many cures from the Icon that there was no time to record all of them. In 1888, by decree of the Holy Synod, a Cross Procession took place in all the churches of the city on April 16 in honor of the Tambov Icon, and in 1900 the church was once again called the church of the Theotokos.

After the 1917 revolution, Tambov's churches were devastated, and the wonderworking Icon also suffered. The riza was removed and the stones were pried out, and then it disappeared without a trace. There are revered copies of the wonderworking Icon in the city.

The Tambov Icon is commemorated on April 16, and again on July 28 (the repose of Bishop Pitirim).

Troparion

Today the city of Tambov exalts radiantly, and Christ’s Hierarch Pitirim rejoices;
for now, O Sovereign Lady, your icon shines forth with the miracles of your Icon,
which the Hierarch brought from the capital city of Moscow,
revealing your wondrous intercession to the people, and healing everyone who turns to you with faith.
Therefore, we humbly cry out to you: “Save us through your Icon, O All-hymned Virgin.”

Kontakion

Now God’s Angels and all the Saints in Heaven rejoice,
beholding your glory, O Most Pure Virgin,
and before your Icon, the faithful offer you prayers of thanksgiving
for the mercy and compassion you have shown to all of us, especially to our city.
As you did of old, O Virgin Theotokos,
save us in days to come by your intercession.