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I hope this is the correct forum for this question. I was wondering what the following invocation by the Priest during liturgy really means? I understand the words but not sure I understand what exactly we're asking of the Theotokos, and how we are with the saints when we place ourselves, others and our lives in Christ's care. Or do I even have that much of it wrong?

"Calling to remembrance our all-holy, most pure, most blessed and glorious Lady Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us commend ourselves and each other and all our life unto Christ our God."

Dear Nonna,

Your question is in the correct topic area.

I will ask that one of our esteemed priests and/or deacons answer your question for fear of providing incorrect information. But here is some information to start.

com�mend ( P ) Pronunciation Key (k-mnd)
tr.v. com�mend�ed, com�mend�ing, com�mends
To represent as worthy, qualified, or desirable; recommend.
To express approval of; praise. See Synonyms at praise.
To commit to the care of another; entrust.


I personally take the statement and use the thrid meaning, entrust, as in:

let us entrust ourselves and each other and all our life unto Christ our God."

To give of yourself, your entire, whole full self, body and soul to Christ and to trust in Him fully, with your life.


Alas, I cannot answer the rest of your question though. sorry
Michael

My reading of the prayer is that the Priest is making a statement he is exclaiming that Christ our true God will save us through the intercession of all of the following starting with the Theotokos keeping in mind this is a dismissal. I read it as an encouragment for the people to leave the church trusting in the care of the true God who love mankind.

Let me know if this helps.

It definitely means to 'entrust'...or to 'commit' ourselves and one another and our whole life to the Lord our God. Amen!

In Christ,
Alice