Holy Canal Grass: A Blessing from Diveyevo Monastery

The Holy Canal (Svjataja Bogorodichnaja Kanavka) at Diveyevo Monastery is one of its most sacred sites. This canal was dug by the nuns under the blessing of St. Seraphim of Sarov, marking the path believed to be traversed daily by the Virgin Mary as she blesses her domain.

St. Seraphim himself declared the profound significance of this place: “Whoever walks this Canal with prayer and recites the ‘Theotokos’ prayer 150 times will have experienced the spiritual equivalent of visiting Mount Athos, Jerusalem, and Kiev!” Here, sorrow finds solace, and hearts are filled with joy. This explains the deep reverence for the Holy Canal and the devout custom of walking its length, reciting the prayer “Mother of God, Virgin, Rejoice” (Богородице Дево, радуйся) 150 times, as advised by St. Seraphim.

The grass growing along the Holy Canal is believed to be sanctified by the very presence of the Queen of Heaven. It should be treated with reverence, like any other sacred relic. Traditionally, this grass is used in times of illness; it can be consumed or applied to afflicted areas. This practice reflects a deep-seated faith in the healing power bestowed upon this sacred place. The grass serves as a tangible reminder of the spiritual blessings received at the Holy Canal.