The Intercession of the Theotokos, also known as the Feast of Intercession and the Protection of the Theotokos, is celebrated worldwide on October 1 in the Julian calendar, which corresponds to October 14 in the Gregorian calendar. This significant feast is observed by the Eastern Orthodox Church and commemorates the apparition of the Virgin Mary, referred to as the Theotokos, in the Church of Saint Mary of Blachernae in Constantinople during the 10th century. During this event, Mary knelt and prayed for the faithful, symbolically spreading her veil over the congregation as a sign of protection. The feast highlights her role in helping to safeguard the city from a pagan invasion. In Ukraine, this day is also recognized as a public holiday known as the Day of the Defender of Ukraine, while in Belarus, it coincides with Mother's Day. The celebration underscores the importance of the Theotokos in Eastern Christian tradition and the protective symbolism associated with her veil.