Even the most formidable tsar needs an intercessor and comforter.

The Tikhvin icon of the Most Holy Theotokos has always been loved by Russian tsars.

How many times crowned persons rushed to her on a pilgrimage. But not only they, but ordinary people who have experienced a problem with the birth of children. Having a child is the dream of many families, and in the life of tsars it is also a state matter.

It all started with a miracle in the family of Grand Duke Vasily III. After a divorce from his first wife, the tsar came to Tikhvin and prayed for childbirth with his new wife. Two years later, a son was born - John Vasilyevich.

Then Ivan the Terrible referred to the icon with special respect, considering it his heavenly Intercessor. And so it was. Before the conquest of Kazan in 1552, the Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God appeared to him and reinforced his hopes for victory in the upcoming battle.

In 1560, by order, grateful for the help of the Queen of Heaven, the tsar rebuilt the Tikhvin monastery. The monastery was surrounded by a stone wall. The sovereign came to pray to the Mother of God of Tikhvin on the eve of important events not only in his life, but in solving state issues.

Even the most formidable tsar needs an Intercessor and Comforter.