A Beloved Marian Devotion in the Month of May
During the month of May, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church honors the Most Holy Theotokos (Mother of God) with a special devotion known as Mayivka (Маївка). This tradition includes the prayer service called the Moleben, a heartfelt supplication to the Blessed Virgin Mary for her intercession and protection.
The Moleben to the Theotokos is celebrated throughout May, often in the evenings, and features psalms, Marian hymns, litanies, and Gospel readings. It is a cherished custom for both families and communities, sometimes held outdoors in gardens or before icons and shrines adorned with spring flowers.
This devotion expresses love for Mary as the Protectress of Christians and reflects the Church’s confidence in her maternal care, especially during times of hardship or need.
All are welcome to join these services, bring flowers, and lift up prayers to the Mother of God during this beautiful season of spiritual renewal.
“O Most Holy Theotokos, save us!”
Mayivka is essentially a Marian devotion held daily or regularly in May. It can happen in churches, chapels, grottos, or even outdoors in nature (a popular custom, especially in villages).
It usually includes the Moleben to the Most Holy Theotokos, a shortened form of Vespers that centers on supplication and intercession.
The focus is asking for the Virgin Mary’s intercession, particularly for peace, health, families, and blessings on the land and nation.
Hymns, psalms, litanies, and Scripture readings related to the Theotokos are included.
Tradition of May as Mary’s Month: May is considered a month of new life and beauty, paralleling the purity and spiritual motherhood of Mary. This tradition exists in both the East and West.
Theological Emphasis: The UGCC, being Eastern in liturgy and theology, places a strong emphasis on the role of the Theotokos as intercessor, model of the Church, and “Protectress” of the people.
Historical Reasons: During times of hardship—especially under persecution—Ukrainians turned to the Mother of God for comfort and hope. The Mayivka became a unifying and consoling tradition.
Moleben to the Most Holy Theotokos:
Primary service during Mayivka.
Includes troparia, prokeimena, Gospel readings, petitions, and a final blessing.
Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos:
While more common during Great Lent, the Akathist may also be included in May devotions, particularly on Saturdays or feast days.
It’s a highly poetic and theological hymn composed of praises to Mary.
Rosary or Chotki (Prayer Rope):
Although less traditional in the Byzantine rite, the Rosary is also prayed in some UGCC communities due to Latin influence, especially in the diaspora.
Some may use the Jesus Prayer or Marian hymns with the prayer rope.
Liturgies on Marian Feast Days in May:
Depending on the calendar, the Divine Liturgy may be celebrated for Marian feasts like the Feast of the Protection (Pokrova) (though it’s in October) or other local feasts dedicated to Mary.
Children and youth often participate in singing during Mayivka.
Outdoor Mayivkas may include processions, flower offerings, and hymns sung under trees or before Marian shrines.
Hymns such as “Chysta Diva” or “Presviataia Divo” are commonly sung.
