The Nativity of the Theotokos

And in Proverbs 9:1-11, Mary is also identified with the "house" which the Divine
Wisdom has built for herself.
Sometimes Matins is served on the morning of the
feast. The Gospel reading is from Luke 1:39-49, 56. It is
read on all feasts of the Theotokos and includes
the Theotokos' saying: "My soul magnifies the Lord and
my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has
regarded the low estate of his handmaiden, for behold,
henceforth all generations will call me blessed."
Divine Liturgy is served on the day on the feast.
The epistle reading is from Philippians 2:5-11, and speaks of "Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men."
The gospel reading is taken from Luke 10:38-42 and 11:27-28 together; this reading is also always read on all feasts of the      Theotokos. In it, the Lord says, "blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!"

Above is shown the mosaic icon of the Theotokos on the church of the Nativity of the Theotokos in Walsall and it is in Walsall, in celebration of their Patronal Festival, that these services will be held this year – see the service list for details.

Troparion of the Feast

Thy nativity, O Virgin,

has proclaimed joy to the whole universe!

The Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,

has shone on thee, O Theotokos!

By annulling the curse,

He bestowed a blessing.

By destroying death,

He has granted us Eternal Life.