Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos - September 8 Today the Orthodox Church celebrates the birth of the Theotokos. This feast marks the beginning of our salvation, as Mary's birth prepares the way for the coming of Christ. We commemorate the joy of her parents, Joachim and Anna, and the fulfillment of God's promise to them.

Apolytikion of Nativity of the Theotokos

Your birth, O Theotokos, brought joy to the whole world, for from you dawned the sun of righteousness, Christ our God. Freeing us from the curse, He gave us His blessings. Abolishing death, He granted us eternal life.

Kontakion of Nativity of the Theotokos

In your holy birth, Immaculate One, Joachim and Anna were rid of the shame of childlessness; Adam and Eve of the corruption of death. And so your people, free of the guilt of their sins, celebrate crying: "The barren one gives birth to…