495 Called in the Gospels "the mother of Jesus", Mary is acclaimed by Elizabeth, at the prompting of the Spirit and even before the birth of her son, as "the mother of my Lord". In fact, the One whom she conceived as man by the Holy Spirit, who truly became her Son according to the flesh, was none other than the Father's eternal Son, the second person of the Holy Trinity. Hence the Church confesses that Mary is truly "Mother of God" (Theotokos).

O spotless, undefiled, incorruptible, chaste and pure Virgin-Bride of God, who by Your wondrous conception united God the Logos/Word with man, and joined our fallen nature with the Heavens; the only hope of the hopeless, and the help of the persecuted; the ever-ready to rescue all that flee unto You, and the refuge of all Christians, spurn me not, the branded sinner, who by shameful thoughts, words and deeds, has made my whole being useless, and through indolence has enslaved my judgment to the pleasures of this life. But as the Mother of the Merciful God, mercifully show compassion unto me, the sinner and prodigal, and accept my supplication which is offered from impure lips unto You.

With Your maternal approach entreat Your Son, our Lord, and Master to open for me the merciful depths of His loving kindness; and overlooking my countless transgressions, guide me to repentance, and show me forth as a worthy worker of His Commandments. As You are merciful, compassionate and gentle, be at my side; and in this present life, be my fervent protectress and helper, thwarting the assaults of the adversaries, and leading me to salvation; and in the hour of my passing take care of my wretched soul, and cast far away the dark faces of the demons. And at the dreadful Day of Judgment, deliver me from eternal punishment, and prove me an heir to the ineffable Glory of Your Son, and our God.

May this glory be my share, O my Lady, Most-Holy Theotokos through Your mediation and help, by the Grace and mercy of Your Only-Begotten Son our Lord, and God, and Savior, Jesus Christ; to Whom is due all glory, honor and worship, together with His Eternal Father, and His All-Holy and Good and Life-Giving Spirit now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.