On October 1, 911, during the reign of emperor Leo the Wise, there was an all-night vigil in the Blachernae church of the Theotokos in Constantinople. Standing near the rear of the church was St. Andrew the Fool for Christ, and his disciple Epiphanius. At four o’clock in the morning, the Theotokos appeared above the people with a veil spread over her outstretched hands, as if to protect them. She was surrounded by angels and saints. Seeing this, Andrew asked his disciple, “Do you see the Queen and Lady of all is praying for the whole world?”

Troparion:  Protected by your appearance, O Mother of God, * today, we devout people solemnly celebrate. * Gazing upon your most pure icon, we fervently say: * Protect us with your holy veil, * and deliver us from all evil, * imploring your Son, Christ our God, to save our souls.