A Hymn of Joy to our Lady Maria Brancoveanu
Rejoice today, Lady Maria,
As the offspring of your country honor you.
The Parish of Saint Gregory the Theologian,
With the blessing of its priest,
Brings you, honored martyr, today
The 25th March, a day of joy for humankind,
The day though of the start of your suffering,
A pious thought for you, Lady Maria,
Wife of the great Ruler and holy martyr, Constantin,
Mother of eleven children, four of whom died as martyrs.
We honor your strength of spirit, your unwavering faith,
Your unlimited piety and devotion to all that is holy,
Your tears and passion, your long imprisonment, your countless sufferings.
We honor you, today, and with these tulips named in your name,
these tulips brought here by the members of the Association
which is also named after you.
Because, no one amongst these present,
No one knows that you guided our steps towards this flower, a Tulip
As we today fulfilled your wish, a delicate wish
Since Tulips were your favorite flowers, you introduced at the Royal Court.
As reflected in Brancovenean Art,
The Tulip, as a pattern, can be found on embroideries,
Religious and everyday objects,
Decorating the reliefs of monuments,
On books and manuscripts, alongside other flowers.
Even in the embroidery of the royal coat of arms,
The crown is surrounded by tulips and peonies.
In the silver binding of the Book of Psaumes,
Edited through the care and financial support of his Lordship Constantin Voda,
We find the country’s Ruler with you, Lady Maria, at his side, flanked by tulips.
Oh, Lady Maria, how you have led our steps towards this deed!
How you gave inspiration to this idea!
How you facilitated our efforts until now!
Blessed be you, Lady Maria Brancoveanu,
Who allowed us today, here at our Parish in Schiedam,
To honor you in such a way, on the Sunday of the Annunciation,
The fifth Sunday of the lent period,
With these Tulips,
These of yours from amongst those of yours!
Schiedam, 25 March 2018
Prezvytera Christina Dură