An original Watercolor painting by Jana Zuniga Pingel based on the traditional Byzantine Icon of the Theotokos: Helper in Childbirth. Theotokos means “God Bearer” in Greek, and serves as a reminder that all women are called to bear the image of Christ to the world! Read Here to learn more about this. 

Mary’s outer garment is in red, which is typically associated in Christian art with the blood of Christ, symbolizing her salvific role in bringing our Redeemer into the world. Red is also used to recognize her sacrificial life as the Mother of God. 

The roses on her cloak further remind us of the redemptive suffering she endured throughout her Motherhood, and the beauty we are all called to bring forth amidst the thorns of our lives. 

The letters “MP OV” are an abbreviation for "ΜΗΤΗΡ ΘΕΟΥ” (Mē̂tēr Theou), which translates to "Mother of God" in Greek. 

Prints are available in 8x10 and 5x7 sizes, printed on 100 lb linen paper.  

Letter from the Artist: 

A few years ago, a dear friend of mine gifted me an icon of Mary Theotokos, accompanied by a note explaining the meaning behind the image;

“The icon is of Mary Thotokos (the God-bearer). John Paul II talked about how all women share Mary’s God-bearing nature, uniquely gifted to bring Jesus forth into the world. You embody that womanly gift so well, helping the people around you encounter Jesus and see his beauty and goodness.” 

Similar to me, this friend had struggled with infertility for several years, and this icon had been passed down to her through several mothers before her. 

I have kept this icon by my bedside table since then, taking much consolation from this reminder of the dignity and beauty in my vocation as a woman, as a God-bearer. 

While this Icon is traditionally used to pray for women preparing for childbirth, I believe it is also a powerful image for women who are still waiting to become mothers. 

Today, I bring you my own version of this icon, inspired by the Byzantine style of the original painting. I hope that it will be used to encourage any women in your life who need prayers, but especially those who are on the long and lonely journey of infertility. 

As I painted this, I prayed for all women who carry the cross of infertility. I hope it blesses you!