The Office I have translated here is that written by the late Father Gerasimos and first published in 1952 in connection with the decision by the Church of Greece to move the day of the feast to the 28th of the month, to commemorate the famous ‘No‘ of the Greeks to the Italians in 1941. Father Gerasimos‘s text is centred on the original story of the vision of the monk Andrew in the church at Vlachernae and not in the least nationalistic. It is interesting, however, to note that in the text of the October Menaion published by the Apostoliki Diakonia in Athens altered the third line of the verses of the Synaxarion reads,

Protection of God’s Mother now veils Greece, where Fr Gerasimos had written.

This Short Synaxarion contains all the commemorations of Saints and the other feasts and events listed in the Greek Menaion, together with the verses that accompany the entries. It is ’short’ because it does not include the detailed notices which usually follow the verses. Some of these will be found on other pages where the full office for the day is given.

The two line verses are written in iambic trimeters, of a sort, but are translated here into standard English ’iambic’ pentameters. These verses abound in paronomasia on the names of the saints, and these I have indicated by including transcriptions of the relevant Greek words within brackets.

The extra line, that normally accompanies the first, or the principal, entry each day and which mentions the date, forms a heroic hexameter, with frequent use of epic vocabulary and grammatical forms. I have translated them into English hexameters, though without attempting to reproduce the archaising effect of the original language.

The transliteration of proper names is not scientific, or consistent, but in general follows contemporary pronunciation. Latin names have been given in their Latin, not their Greek, form. Stress accents are generally as in modern Greek. Sometimes I use traditional English forms and stresses, as in ’Mуses’ or ’Jуnas’.

The Month of September, having 30 days.

The day has 12 hours and the night 12 hours.

On the 1st of the month, Beginning of the Indiction, that is of the New Year.

Verses.

New year’s Indiction bless for us, we pray,

O you, both Ancient and, for mankind, New.

On the same day we commemorate the marvel which took place through the Holy Mother of God in the Monastery of the Miasini; and the fire that took place.

Verses.

Strange was the catch that by itself came up

From harbour’s depth: the Virgin’s honoured image.

The commemoration of the fire; because of the great fire which took place in Constantinople, because of our sins, in the reign of Leo the great King, nicknamed the Pick-axe, in the year 450, and which ravaged by fire most of the city in seven days.

Verses.

His pillared station Symeon left behind,

And took his stand beside the Word of God.

High stepping Symeon died on the first of the month of September.

Verses.

On earth of old once Martha welcomed Christ.

Now Christ in heaven, Martha, welcomes you.

The sun that once he halted left behind,

Now Jesus contemplates the Sun of glory.

Verses.

For virgins double twenty fire and sword

Secured as Bridegroom Christ the Son of God.

A helmet heated in the flames Ammoun received:

Stripped off his covering of flesh with joy.

Verses.

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

September 2nd.

Verses

Mamas’s entrails were spilled by a trident, upon this month’s second.

Verses

No fleeting pleasures those you now enjoy,

Faster from fleeting pleasures, blessed John.

Verses

Iron to iron was holy Diomede,

Bravely the blows of broad sword he endured.

Verses

His head crushed by a club, brave Julian,

Mind safe on God, persisted to the end.

Verses

Verses

Eutychianуs, burned upon a hearth,

Verses

Hesychios for his true Master longed;

Verses

The flame of love for God, Leonidas,

Led you with ease to bear the flame’s fierce force.

Verses

Eutychios, walking in the Lord’s own steps,

Like him endured the passion of a cross.

Verses

Philadelphos by weight of stone put off

All weight of flesh and mounted light on high.

Verses

Cleansing he found when cast into the fire.

Verses

O Parthagape, in the sea you die,

And find a sea of precious gifts on high.

September 3^rd.

Verses

To God’s great glory, though you were a corpse.

On the third day of the month a sharp sword struck the Martyr and slew him.

Verses

Verses

Vasilissa, whom wild beasts fearsome found,

Verses

Verses

At their intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

September 4^th.

Verses

Babylas, who once offered Christ himself,

To Christ is gladly offered through the sword.

Verses for the Three Youths

For their great Master who is God the Word

The youths run fervently towards the sword.

Three holy Youths on the fourth with their Bishop Babylas were slaughtered.

Verses

Your payment for their teaching from the youths,

Godly Babylas, was a common death.

Verses

Not from a rock now, nor the hinder parts,

Moses, you see, but God himself entire.

Verses

To heaven itself, Hermione, you go,

Verses

Theotimos died with Theodoulos,

Verses

Fire of God’s love his breath, Centurion

Gladly breathes out his soul upon the fire.

For athletes three the pyre a ladder strange,

Verses

Bebaia slain and Thathouel as well,

On the same day, Commemoration of three thousand six hundred and twenty eight Martyrs.

September 5th

Verses

Slaughtered just like a lamb was Zachary

Within the Temple for the Lamb of God;

Zachary then on the fifth on the great Temple’s pavement was slaughtered.

Verses

Martyr Abdaios rods of thorn endures,

Verses

‘Passing through fire and water, like the Psalm’,

Medimnos says, ‘I reach my final rest’.

With Urban too Theodoros the great

Wins the same contest as Medimnos did.

A tenfold octad of the sanctified

Both fire and water steadfastly endured.

September 6th

Verses

Another Noл, Michael, you appeared

Michael of Angels the chief on the sixth funnelled strong flowing rivers.

Verses

Zenon, Eudoxios and Romulus were slain,

Verses

One thousand Martyrs and then ten times ten

With further four together died by sword.

The head of Kalodoti was struck off.

Verses

Faustus, by sword leaving the earth behind,

Makarios and Andrew, slain by sword,

The crown of virtue Bibos now denies,

Unless he takes the crown from off the sword.

A sword with Dionysios slew two

Who were with him of a united mind.

In face of execution, as was Thekla.

Captain Theoktistos, his head struck off,

Aims his soul’s ship directly to the sky.

Kyriakos the commoner, once slain,

Now with the choir of Martyrs takes his place.

On the same day there coincided the dedication of the church of the Most Holy Mother of God in the Second District in the house of Saint Eirene.

September 7th

Verses

Torments of body Sozon once endured,

Sozon, his radiant flesh fiercely pounded, died on the seventh.

Verses

Offers his Fashioner his soul with joy.

Verses

Anna, all mothers truly you surpassed,

Until your daughter should become your Mother.

Verses

Rufianus, bowing beneath the sword,

‘Rufus, I wait. Don’t flinch, but follow me.’

Verses

‘Ready I am all torment to endure’,

Severos said, ‘And is the sword for me?’

Verses

Artemidoros has the strength to leap,

Shows it in deed amid the raging fire.

September 9th

Verses

Let Joachim now with his Wife delight,

Both to creation bearing soul’s delight.

Feast of the parents of her who is Mother of God is the ninth day.

Verses

Severianos’ torment weight of stones,

Hanged, he rejoiced, tearing his feet from earth.

Verses

Commemoration of the Third Holy Ecumenical Council of the two hundred holy Fathers, who were brought together at Ephesus in the reign of Theodosios the Less, and who condemned the impious Nestorios.

September 10th

Verses

Menodora, Metrodora thought,

Verses

Varypsavas for Master’s blood divine

Pours out his own blood, pounded with wooden clubs.

Verses

As in the Psalm, Queen Pulcheria took

Her stand at your right hand in truth, my Christ.

Verses

Ia, by sword cut down from earth’s deep vales,

September 11th

Verses

Theodora was a male in dress and mind,

And the great mind she shames before the end.

On the eleventh she took her repose at the last Theodora.

Verses

With fellow athletes Diodoros gives

His flesh to scourges; error thus they scourge.

Verses

Sweet smell of blood outpoured and crimson dyed.

September 12th

Verses

Word, on your altar lay a sacrifice,

Autonomos, your sacrificer, slain by stones.

Autonomos on the twelfth of the month by stones was he slaughtered.

Verses

Disdaining glory in the present life,

Kornoutos by the sword gained that to come.

Verses

His head by sword struck off, Theуdoros

Verses

Mingling his contests with ascetic sweat

Double the crowns that Julian received.

Verses

Okeanos consider a bright sun

Washed in the ocean of a blazing pyre.

September 13th

On the 13th of the same month, Commemoration of the Dedication of the holy [Church of the] Resurrection of our Christ and God.

Verses

New Israel fulfilling ancient law,

Honours your tomb, O Word, with dedication.

Sanctified on the thirteenth was the Temple of Christ’s Resurrection.

Verses

Cornelius you lead from unbelief, O Christ,

The firstfruits of the faithful of the nations.

Verses

Seeing the Cross exalted, Saviour, now

Creation exaltation brings with song.

On the fourteenth of the month was the Wood of the Cross high exalted.

On the same day, the Falling Asleep of our Father among the saints, John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople. He died on this day, but because of the Feast of the precious Cross, his feast was transferred to the month of November.

Verses

Earth’s fading crown Plakilla left behind,

Unfading crown of glory found in heaven.

On the same day, Commemoration of our Fathers among the saints who assembled in the Holy, Ecumenical Sixth Synod, in the reign of the Emperor Constantine the Bearded, son of Justinian II, called ‘Splitnose’, Sergios being Bishop of Constantinople and Agathon of the Romans. It met in the Domed [Trullos] Hall of the Palace, called ‘Ovatos’ [egg-shaped], and placed under anathema Sergios, Pyrrhus, Peter and Paul, who had been bishops of Constantinople; Makrobios of Antioch, Kyros of Alexandria, Honorius of Rome, Stephen and Polychronios and their followers. This Holy Synod was assembled under the aforementioned Emperor, Constantine the Bearded, but the publication of its Canons took place under his son, Justinian.

Verses

Pappas was shamed to groan at tortures’ blows,

For he had God as helper by his side.

Verses

Theokles reached his place on high in heaven,

Having as chariot the sword’s swift blow.

Verses

To small Valerian the great God gave

As his reward a great big crown in heaven.

September 15th

Verses

You burn, Nikitas, and bear off the victory,

Or rather Fire-bearer is Victory-bearer.

Into the furnace of flame was Nikitas cast on the fifteenth.

Verses

Has found unending life with God’s good friends.

Verses

Urged to mock Baptism, you error mock,

Verses

The Finding of your relics as we praise,

Verses

Seeing Christ stretching out to you a crown,

You stretch your head out Maximos to sword.

On the same day, two holy Maidens met their end by the sword.

Verses

Having but one intent and one desire,

Two maidens bowed their necks before the sword.

Verses

Saint Stephen’s finding all creation shares,

He the first champion of the greatest God.

September 16th

Verses

Slain by a bear’s fangs for the sake of God,

On the sixteenth of the month by a bear Euphemia was slaughtered.

Verses

Her head struck off by sword, Melitini

September 17th

Verses

With faith in you, O Trinity, the three,

Faith, Hope and Love, bowed necks unto the sword.

On the seventeenth day of the month, Faith, Hope, Love, the three sisters, they slaughtered.

Verses

Agathokleia bears fire on her neck,

Verses

For two young men and for one woman there

Was for the sword’s fell stroke one warmth of heart.

Verses

In peace, O Christ, your servant Lucy passed

Over in truth unto a place of peace.

Geminianus, Martyr, valorous,

Verses

Fervent and keenly eager for the sword.

On the same day, Commemoration of one hundred holy Martyrs.

Verses

Egyptian Martyrs ten times ten with one

Impassioned eagerness have heads cut off.

For Saints Peleus and Neilos, the Bishops

Verses.

Where in a word was Peleus to Peleus?

With Neilos entering the midst of fire?

For the fifty Martyrs of Palestine.

Verses.

From noble counsel men of godly mind

From noble daring now despise the fire.

For Saints Patermouthios and Elias.

Verses.

In furnace falling Patermouthios

To equal zeal now spurs Elias on.

Verses

Verses

Myron and Herakleides on a pyre

September 18th

Verses

Gortyna’s gentle eye, Evmenios,

On the eighteenth of the month died Evmenios, noble, great hearted.

Verses

Sophia and Irene, heads cut off,

Verses

A rock, rent open, Ariadne saves,

For Christ the rock of life protected her.

Verses

September 19th

Verses

Dorymedon and Trophimos you breathed

As one, one death accepted from the sword.

Rasped with sharp iron Sabbatios attains

As Martyr to the Sabbath rest of God.

Trophimos on the nineteenth with two fellow athletes they slaughtered.

September 20th

Verses

Efstathios with his race a bronze ox burns,

And you, O Word of God, the whole race save.

On the twentieth day with his wife and his sons he was burned in a bronze ox.

Verses

Hypatios for holy icons’ sake

With Andrew men of bloodshed put to death.

Verses

A sword slays Thalos and Artemidore,

Who did not worship savage Artemis.

Verses

‘How could I say: Why die? For I have loved’.

The lawless Maximianos, unable to endure his boldness, ordered him to be made away with along with forty others.

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

September 21st

Verses

Holy Quadratus fools assailed with stones,

because to stones he would not honour pay.

On the twenty first day of the month won a crown for his contests Quadratus.

On the same day, commemoration of the holy Prophet Jonas.

Verses

Of old you fled far from the face of God,

On the same day, commemoration of our Venerable Father Savvas the Sabbaite.

Verses

Place of unstable life once Jonas left,

now finds a place both stable and most sure.

On the same day, commemoration of the holy Martyr Eusebios.

Verses

Verses

Zeno, Eusebios, and Nйstabos,

Verses

Bearing the living water in his heart,

Priscus feared not the burning of the flesh.

On the same day, commemoration of the six holy Martyrs, armour-bearers of Maximianos.

Verses

For God who bowed his head upon the Tree,

Six Martyrs bowed their heads beneath the sword.

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

September 23rd

Verses

Archangel’s message to a Prophet was:

Prophet you will beget and more than that.

And on the twenty third day the Forerunner‘s mother conceived him.

Verses

For the Word’s sake, of old pierced with one lance,

Andrew endured being pierced by lances twain.

Error John made his foe and being slain

Slaughtered the foe and with him error too.

Verses

Longing to see God’s beauty Raпs gave

The beauty of her flesh up to the sword.

Verses

To be their fellows Angel choirs now take

Xanthippe and Polyxena her kin.

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

September 24th

Verses

He saved you, Thekla, when he rent the rock,

He at whose passion once the rocks were rent.

‘Twas on the twenty fourth day that a rock once enfolded great Thekla.

Verses

Of grapes that brought fair blossom to the Lord.

Commemoration of the miracle that took place through the Mother of God on the island of Cythera, where the icon of the Mother of God found in the myrtles cured a paralytic.

At their holy intercessions, O God have mercy on us. Amen.

September 25th

Verses

You hide your womanhood in male attire.

And see the Master who in secret sees.

And on the twenty fifth day Efrosyne attained her life’s ending.

Verses

Closing his eyes to flesh, Paphnutios

In spirit lives and a great light beholds.

Verses

Friends of this world Paphnutios Crucify,

Who to the whole world had been crucified.

On the same day, commemoration of the great earthquake, during which a boy was snatched up into the air [and to whom the Orthodox Trisagion was revealed by the Archangels].

Verses

Lifted on high a boy proclaims below

The song thrice-holy that the Angels sing.

Verses

Paul with his sons his witness bears, with whom

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

September 26th

Verses

You stand beside the Father’s well loved Word ,

Than all of the Disciples more well loved.

At his holy intercessions, O God have mercy on us. Amen.

September 27th

Verses

Kallistratos, his head cut off by sword,

Twenty and seven the day when Kallistratos from here was taken

For the forty nine holy Martyrs

Ten times four Martyrs, joined with nine, through sword

In honoured contest fought a noble fight.

Verses

Brave was Epicharis before the sword,

Verses

Gaпana, give your back to burning flame,

That you may flee the back of sword of flame.

On the same day, commemoration of the fifteen holy Martyrs who, thrown into a boat that was set alight, drowned in the sea.

Verses

A company of athletes, five times three,

Descended to the bottom of the sea.

At their holy intercessions, O God have mercy on us. Amen.

September 28th

Verses

All earth’s delights Chariton trampled down,

In heaven’s graces now he takes delight.

Twenty and eight was the day when Chariton died in his old age.

Verses

Down into earth went holy martyrs three,

From there went out into a dew divine.

A shepherd Markos was, whom the sword slew,

Shepherd of sheep, as Scripture’s Abel was.

Heliodoros, Nikon, Neon too,

Ten thousand children slain and women too,

O God, and Child of woman, now receive.

Verses

Martyr Eusathios struggling against sword.

Verses

The thirty martyrs when they were cut down

Had Alexander as their chief in death.

At their holy intercessions, O God have mercy on us. Amen.

September 29th

Verses

By bitter squills, Kyriakos, you quelled

Sweet food, by which you were condemned to die.

Squill-eating Kyriakos on the twenty ninth day made his ending.

Verses

Petronia, bowing head beneath the sword,

Verses

To you, O Christ, who are the head of all,

Goudelia brought her head, struck off by sword.

Verses

Kasdoos and Kasdoa fought as one,

He slain by blade, while she was crushed by wood.

Verses

Your body hacked in pieces limb by limb,

You save your spirit, Dada martyr brave.

Gobdelaas is pierced by reeds and dies,

Honouring Christ, my Saviour, struck by reed.

At their holy intercessions, O God have mercy on us. Amen.

September 30th

Verses

Gregory died at the end of the month in Armenia Magna.

Verses

Ripsimia by blows was no way pained,

Counting against them garlands numberless.

Ascetic life crowned Gaпani once,

The contest by the sword now crowns her too.

Trinity, thrice ten Martyrs honour you,

Dying with two, for your sake, by the sword.

On the same day, commemoration of the seventy holy Martyrs, who were massacred along with Ripsimia, and commemoration of the two holy Women Ascetics.

Verses

Seventy were the men who died by sword,

Ready to die, if needed, many times.

Nourished by virtues, now are women twain

Adorned when cut down by the contest’s sword.

Verses

Stratonikos, by dying through the sword,

Verses

Mardonios, your passion’s mark you bear,

Bearing the stamp of burning on your navel.

On the same day, one thousand holy Martyrs met their by the sword.

Verses

One thousand as a regiment were slain,

A prize they found, unnumbered victor’s crowns.

At their holy intercessions, O God have mercy on us. Amen.

At Vespers

Tone 1. Joy of the heavenly hosts.

Christ Saviour, Lover of mankind, who brought all things into existence from nothing, and with ineffable wisdom arranged for each one to accomplish unerringly the goal which you laid down in the beginning, as you are powerful, bless the whole creation which you fashioned.

Give peace to all the nations, Lord, and understanding in all things, so that we may lead a tranquil life and always keep your laws, which you laid down for the whole creation for the unalterable maintenance and government of the universe.

Lover of mankind, keep unharmed the environment that clothes the earth, through which, by your will, we who inhabit the earth live and move and have our being, so that we, your unworthy suppliants, may be delivered from destruction and ruin.

Fence round the whole creation, Christ Saviour, with the mighty strength of your love for mankind, and deliver the earth we inhabit from the corruption which threatens it; for we, your servants, have set our hopes on you.

Put an end, O Saviour, to the evil designs which are being devised against us with senseless intent, and turn aside from the earth every destructive action of the works of human hands which contrive corruption leading to perdition.

Lord, who wrap creation in clouds, as godly David sang, watch over the environment of the earth, which you created from the beginning for the preservation of mortals, and give us the breath of the winds and the flow of waters.

Almighty Lord, who created all things with wisdom and who watch over and guide them by your all-powerful hand, grant well-being so that the whole creation may prosper and remain unharmed by hostile elements; for you, Master, commanded that the works of your hands should remain unshaken until the end of the age; for you spoke and they came into being and from you they receive mercy for the turning away of all evil, and for the salvation of the human race that glorifies your name which is praised above all.

Who will not call you blessed, All-holy Virgin? Who will not sing the praise of your child-birth without labour? For the only-begotten Son, who shone out from the Father beyond time, came forth from you, pure Maiden, ineffably incarnate. By nature he is God, by nature he became man for our sakes, not divided in a duality of persons, but known without confusion in a duality of natures. O honoured and all-blessed, implore him to have mercy on our souls.

The Reading is from Leviticus.

The Reading is from the Prophecy of Isaias.

The Reading is from the Prophecy of Jeremias.

At the Liti, Idiomela.

Tone 1.

Lord, who created the universe at the beginning and gave to each thing its own rank, do not despise the works of your hands, but with an eye of mercy look from heaven upon this vine and restore it according to your will, turning aside from it every purpose that brings corruption and every destroyer; for you are our Shepherd, Deliverer and Saviour, and from you, Master, we receive help in mercy and acts of compassion, as we glorify you.

Tone 2.

Lord and Master, who fenced about the domain of the earth and made it sure with an enveloping band, deliver its whole structure from harm and disaster; for you are a treasury of strength and the source of life, and all things minister and are subject to your will as your servants, Lord. And so grant us your mercies and turn away from us every disaster, and save our souls for you love mankind.

Tone 3.

Threats and scourges and destruction hang over us, Lord, because of the multitude of our transgressions; for we have sinned and transgressed and gone far from you, and we are affected and afflicted by dire perils; but deliver us, Lord, from the dangers that beset us, and keep the whole structure of the earth unharmed, granting equable breaths of winds and ever-flowing springs of waters for our safe-keeping and salvation, O Lover of mankind.

Lord, who hold the circle of the earth and make firm its foundations, as the Prophet says, accept our suppliant entreaties, as our guardian, protector and Saviour; for we are your people and the sheep of your pasture and by your infinite mercy we shall be delivered from anticipated dangers. Do not therefore utterly destroy us, Master, but may your goodness conquer the multitude of our offences, that we may all glorify the ocean of your acts of compassion.

From dangers of every kind protect your servants, blessed Mother of God, that we may glorify you, the hope of our souls.

At the Aposticha, Prosomia.

Tone 5. Hail, of ascetic struggles.

Merciful God, who love mankind, look with an eye of compassion on the works of your hands and set free the expanse of the atmosphere from dread destruction and death-dealing emissions and every poisonous pollution, through which death and danger threaten. Take pity then on what you have fashioned and give to all the prudence not to act senselessly, whose result is corruption, and grant to all pardon, salvation and your divine mercy.

Saviour, accept the entreaties of your Mother, which she offers for all creation, and the supplications of all your Saints. Grant to all your mercies, and keep unharmed the firmament which you spread out from the beginning with wisdom, Lord, and brought into being for the benefit of mortals. Keep undamaged from harmful influences, O Word, the whole environment which girds the earth, granting to all pardon and salvation and your great mercy.

With humility of soul we all entreat you, Lord, and we fall down before you. At your command deliver the earth on which we dwell from every harm and from harsh ruin, and speedily avert from it and abolish by your will destructive emanations, and pour out the fresh dew of life-sustaining air. With your mighty power, Master and Saviour, fence about the whole enclosure of the environment, granting to all pardon and salvation and your divine mercy.

Through compassionate pity, O Word, you took another form, refashioned corrupted nature and brought it back to incorruption. Now, we beseech you, yield to the supplications of your most pure Mother and grant stability to the inhabited world and well-being to all creation and deliverance from perils, for the salvation of our souls.

Apolytikion. Tone 4. Speedily anticipate.

Lord and Saviour, who as God brought all things into being by a word, establishing laws and governing them unerringly to your glory, at the prayers of the Mother of God, keep secure and unharmed all the elements which hold the earth together, and save the universe.

Theotokion.

The mystery hidden from all eternity and unknown to Angels has been revealed to those on earth through you, O Mother of God: God being made flesh in a union without confusion, and willingly accepting the Cross for us, through which he raised the first-formed man and saved our souls from death.

And Dismissal.

At Matins

After the 1st Reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Tone 1. The soldiers watching.

O Lord, as God you sustain all things by a word, and keep them all in perfect harmony. As you are compassionate keep unaltered the environment which enwraps creation and by your ineffable power turn away from the earth every harm.

Theotokion.

All-blameless Virgin, beyond nature you conceived God and gave birth to him in the flesh. Through the abundance of your mercy take pity on those who glorify you in faith and by the streams of your grace cleanse our minds and hearts from sins of many kinds.

After the 2nd Reading, Kathisma.

Tone 4. Joseph was amazed.

In the beginning, Saviour, universal King, you founded the earth, while the heavens are the works of your hands, and the stars also with the sun and the moon. All things proclaim your greatness and your strength. Keep their harmony and majesty untroubled, for all things, O Word, are subject to your almighty will.

Theotokion.

Ineffably, Mary, you conceived in your womb without change and without confusion the God who is beyond being; and beyond nature you brought forth for those in the world the One who delivers us from condemnation. Therefore we sing the praise of your many mighty works and glorify with faith your child-bearing beyond understanding. But, O Virgin who bore God, deliver us from every affliction.

After the Polyeleos, Kathisma.

Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

Lord, Lover of mankind, King of all creation, who bring all things into being from nothing, keep unharmed the order which you established and grant your servants temperate climates. Therefore too, diffusing mild airs, disperse all noxious pollutions from the earth, all-powerful Giver of life, and grant your peace to all the nations, that we may all sing the praise of your goodness.

Theotokion.

The Master and Maker of all things, taking flesh from your immaculate womb, came forth as man, not changed in his Godhead, and granted salvation to all those who worship your ineffable child-bearing. Therefore, all-pure Mother of God, Ever-Virgin Maiden, we have recourse to your fervent protection, and saved we cry: Intercede with your Son and God to grant forgiveness of faults to those who devoutly sing the praise of your many mighty works.

The 1st Antiphon of the Anavathmi in Tone 4 and the Prokeimenon.

The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to Luke.

Psalm 50.

Glory.

At the prayers of the Apostles, O Merciful One, blot out the multitude of my transgressions.

Both now.

At the prayers of the Mother of God, O Merciful One, blot out the multitude of my transgressions.

Idiomel. Tone 6.

Lord, who with wisdom keep, maintain and direct all things for our government and sure guidance in the paths of your commandments, accept our suppliant entreaties and rescue us from impending dangers and from all change for the worse of the bounds of nature, and save our souls.

Then the Canon, of which the Acrostic is:

Christ Saviour, keep us safe. Gerasimos.

Ode 1. Tone 8. Irmos. Crossing the water.

Crossing the water as on dry land and fleeing from the wickedness of the Egyptians, Israel cried aloud: To our Redeemer and our God now let us sing.

Troparia.

O Word great in mercy, stooping with goodness and compassion, shower down from heaven upon the earth the streams of your divine mercy for our salvation.

Stained with foul passions, Saviour, we defile the atmosphere with our dread actions; but grant us, Lord, genuine repentance.

Look on us, Saviour, with an eye of mercy, and turn from the earth, we beg, the destruction which comes from poisonous and senseless actions.

Theotokion.

Mother of God full of grace, who gave birth to the Word without beginning from your pure blood, save us from dread circumstances.

Ode 3. Irmos. You are the firm strength.

You are the firm strength, O Lord, of those who have recourse to you. You are the light of those in darkness, and my spirit sings your praise.

Troparia.

By the laws which you established, Master, ever keep unshaken and unmoved the works of your hands, which you brought into being of old.

As you possess an inexhaustible ocean of compassion, O All-merciful, dispel the harmful blasts that come against us.

You are Lord of all things, Saviour, you the Giver of life. Cleanse from all corruption the elements in which we your servants live.

Theotokion.

You appeared as the dwelling of the Maker of all creation, pure Maiden, bearing him ineffably in your womb.

Kathisma. Tone 5. Let us believers praise.

As our Master and Creator, Lover of mankind, we fall before you with faith and we cry out to you, ‘Keep our atmosphere and the whole earth undamaged by harmful corrupters, and give us repentance and wholeness, O Compassionate, for the salvation of our souls’.

Theotokion. Same melody.

From your pure blood you bore beyond understanding the Master of all things and remained, as before, a virgin incorrupt, O Mother of God. Keep safe from every evil and corruption of the cunning Deceiver those who with undoubting heart have recourse to your protection.

Ode 4. Irmos. I have heard, Lord.

I have heard, Lord, of the mystery of your dispensation; I have understood your works and glorified your Godhead.

Troparia.

Keep the elements which surround the earth unharmed, Lord, and ever bless us that we may walk in your fear.

We have been estranged, Lord, by transgressing your divine law, and so we beg you: Give us amendment of life.

From pollutions and from destructive blasts deliver the whole earth, O Saviour, by your strength, that we may magnify your might.

Theotokion.

Mother of God, Ever-Virgin, who gave birth in the body to the Fashioner of the whole creation, deliver us from every calamity.

Ode 5. Irmos. Enlighten us.

Enlighten us by your commands, O Lord, and by your upraised arm grant us your peace, O Lover of mankind.

Cleanse us from blemishes of soul, O Lover of mankind, and preserve in its own order, we beseech you, the earth’s environment.

Empower us, Lord, by your divine fear to accomplish our life without grief in peace and true love.

You founded the heaven and the earth, as David sings, O Creator; guard us then from every affliction.

Theotokion.

Accept the voices of those who entreat you with faith, Mother of God, pure and Ever-Virgin, and grant peace to our souls.

Ode 6. Irmos. I pour out my supplication.

I pour out my supplication to the Lord, and to him I declare my afflictions, because my soul has been filled with evils and my life has drawn near to Hell; and like Jonas I beg: O God, bring me up from corruption.

Troparia.

You established all creation by your mighty strength, O Saviour who love mankind; now, therefore, rescue us by your power, Lord, from threatening destruction, and preserve the environment which enwraps the earth.

Keep the upper air undamaged and the flow of the air free from destructive exhalations, pollutions, and the other effects of dangerous activities which bring most painful death.

By a word, Lord, you established the structure of the earth, and wrapped its circumference with a surrounding element as you wished; ever preserve it from corruption and dread influences.

Theotokion.

As Mother of the King of glory, Ever-Virgin Maiden, Mother of God, set free my lowly heart from the disgrace of unclean passions, and give me, I beg, sincere and perfect repentance.

Kontakion. Tone 2. With your blood.

With your all-powerful strength you framed all things, both visible and invisible; and so keep unharmed, we implore your goodness, the environment that surrounds the earth.

Ikos.

Loving Saviour, we praise the manifestations of your providence and your many saving powers; because with ineffable wisdom and order and harmony you have established for all things laws and unalterable ordinances for the protection of us, your royal fashioning. Keep us unshaken, Lord, from every corrupting activity, change and destruction, as guardian, protector and deliverer of all things, keeping in them the essential power unmoved, and especially watching over the environment that surrounds the earth.

On the same day, the beginning of the Indiction, we entreat our God, who loves mankind, for the welfare of the earth on which we live and for the whole creation.

Verses

We fall before you, Master, as we cry:

O Saviour, from pollutions free the earth.

To him be glory and might to the ages. Amen.]

Ode 7. Irmos. The Youths from Judea.

The Youths from Judaea once having come to Babylon, with the faith of the Trinity trampled down the flame of the furnace, as they sang: God of our fathers, blessed are you!

Troparia

You give life to all and conduct all things with ineffable judgements; from harmful pollutions and from every abuse save those who cry out, ‘God of our fathers, blessed are you!’

By your will, Lord, you adorned the heavens with stars, while you made the whole earth fair with flowers and trees as it sings, ‘God of our fathers, blessed are you!’

Give pardon and a calm life to us who dwell on the earth, turning away from it corrupting emanations and saving those who sing, ‘God of our fathers, blessed are you!’

Theotokion.

The One born from your womb, pure Maiden, declared you to be the gateway of salvation that leads to the glory of the kingdom on high those who cry out to you with faith, ‘Hail, pure Virgin, the salvation of mortals!’

Ode 8. Irmos. The King of heavn.

The King of heaven, whom the hosts of Angels praise, praise and highly exalt to all the ages.

Troparia.

Come, all the inhabitants of earth, let us fall down and cry out to Christ with compunction, ‘Deliver us, Saviour, from just condemnation!’

From pollutions and contaminations rescue the environment, Saviour, that we may sing your praise as the only benefactor.

With streams of your vivifying mercy, Compassionate One, quench the flame of bitter passions and grant us well-being and salvation.

Theotokion.

Glory of Angels and salvation of mortals, glorious Ever-Virgin Maiden, show us to be partakers in eternal glory.

Ode 9. Irmos. We who through you.

We, who have been saved through you, pure Virgin, confess you to be in truth the Mother of God and with the bodiless choirs we magnify you.

Troparia.

In your goodness deliver our race from earthquakes and ill fortune, from calamities of many kinds and from soul-destroying pollutions, O Compassionate.

Give strength to the weak, O all-compassionate, and by your power preserve the atmosphere clean from winds that bring death.

From every pollution that breeds death, O Saviour, by your power preserve unsullied the air in creation that we breathe.

Make heavenly our hearts, O Compassionate, through a life of virtue and holiness, and deliver us from the grip of uncleanness.

Theotokion.

We sing the praise of your child-bearing, through which, O Virgin, we have been delivered from the ancestral curse; for you bore Christ, the Saviour of all.

Exapostilarion. Women hear.

You once stretched out the heavens at your command, Lord, as the Prophet says, and founded the unformed mass of the earth, Master; preserve the constitution of the universe in harmony and keep every element in creation from contamination.

Theotokion.

The Maker of creation through his goodness took human form from you, and was created beyond nature from your pure blood. As his all-pure Mother, O all-immaculate, ask him for us, we beg, that we may find salvation.

At Lauds we insert 4 Stichera and sing the following Prosomia.

Tone 4. You have given us a sign.

With compunction we offer you our praise, Lover of mankind, and with faith we cry out to you: As Creator you hold fast the ends of the earth, and you maintain and govern them. From noxious emanations and from dire pollutions that harbour bitter death, rescue humanity which you fashioned, for you are pitying and compassionate.

By your almighty will you brought all things into being from nothing, Lover of mankind, and all things, Saviour, serve your might; therefore we implore you: Keep the environment that enwraps the earth unmoved, for the safe government of your royal fashioning, and for life on earth to be free from strife and destruction.

Let us, the nurselings of true religion, offer to the Lord purity of life and splendour of manners, that we may be delivered from pollutions of many kinds which pollute the whole earth and harbour bitter and painful death for the ends of the earth. From these, Lord, preserve our existence by your almighty power.

You walled the circle of the earth, Lord, as with a wall, with a safe environment. Preserve it always as you established it when you poured out the breaths of winds and vivifying breezes for our preservation, and grant us pardon of sins, Master, and the fulfilling of the commands of your holy will.

As Master of creation do not take from us the treasures of your providence, we beg, Lover of mankind. See our humiliation, Lord, and cleanse creation of polluted winds and noxious contagions and activities, so that, living devoutly and soberly in a pure life, we may be counted worthy of eternal life, as we glorify your great mercy.

Sovereign Lady, accept the entreaties of your servants and rescue us from every constraint and affliction.

Great Doxology and Dismissal.

At The Liturgy

Great is our God, and great is his strength.

Great is our God, and great is his strength.

The Reading is from the 1st Epistle of Paul to Timothy.

[Brethren, submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to dejection. Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you. Do not speak evil against one another, brethren. One that speaks evil against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you that you judge your neighbour? Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and do business and make a profit’; whereas you do not know about tomorrow. What is your life? For you are a mist that will appear for a little time and then it will vanish. Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wishes, we will both live and do this or that’. As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. Anyone who knows what it is right to do and fails to do it, for them it is sin. Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have rusted, and their rust will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh. Like fire you have stored up treasure in the last days. Behold, the wages of the labourers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out; and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in pleasure; you have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned, you have killed the righteous one; he does not resist you. Be patient, therefore, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. Behold, the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient over it until it receives the early and the late rain. You also be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. Do not grumble, brethren, against one another, that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is standing at the doors.]

The Reading is from the holy Gospel according to Luke.

The Lord said to his Disciples: In those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very doors. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

Communion.

Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise him in the highest. Alleluia!

Megalynarion.

At all times keep unharmed the whole creation we beg you, O Redeemer, and grant us breaths of winds and breezes moist with dew for our safety and salvation, O Lover of mankind.

Beginning of the Indiction, that is of the New Year; and commemoration of our Venerable Father Symeon the Stylite and Archimandrite; the assembly of the most holy Mother of God of the Miasini; commemoration of the Holy Martyr Aithalas; of the forty Holy Women and of the deacon Ammoun, their teacher; of the Holy Martyrs Kallisti, Evodos and Hermogenes, sister and brothers; commemoration of Jesus son of Navi; and anniversary of the great fire.

At Vespers

Of the Indiction. Tone 1. Joy of the heavenly hosts.

Having learned to pray in his own words from Christ’s divine teaching, let us cry out each day to the Creator: Our Father, who dwell in heaven, give us our daily bread, overlooking our faults.

As the limbs of the Hebrews who truly disobeyed you, the Master of all, were once fittingly strewn across the desert, so now too, O Christ, as the Psalm says, scatter the bones of the impious and unbelieving Hagarenes at the mouth of Hell.

Christ God, who once on Mount Sinai wrote the tables of the law, now too, according to the flesh, in the city of Nazareth yourself took the book of the prophet to read; and having closed it began to teach the peoples that the Scripture had been fulfilled in you.

Stichera of the Saint.

Tone 5. Model Melody. Venerable Father.

Venerable Father, you found a fair ladder, by which you went up on high, the ladder which Elias found as a chariot of fire. He though did not leave his mount to others, but you keep your pillar even after death. Man of heaven, angel of earth, unsleeping beacon of the inhabited world, Venerable Symeon, intercede that our souls may be saved.

Venerable Father, if the pillar could speak it would not cease crying out your toils, your hardships, your laments. Though it supported, it was itself supported, nourished like a tree with your tears. Angels were amazed, mortals marvelled, demons cowered at your endurance. Venerable Symeon, intercede that our souls may be saved.

Venerable Father, by the power of the divine Spirit, imitating your Master, you went up onto a pillar as onto a cross. He though wiped out the record of all, while you abolished the uprising of the passions; he like a sheep, you like a victim; he on a cross, you on the pillar. Venerable Symeon, intercede that our souls may be saved

Others, Idiomels, of the Saint. Tone 2.

A good fruit sprouted from a good root, Symeon, holy from infancy, nurtured on grace rather than milk, and, having raised his body on a rock and his mind yet higher towards God, with virtues he built a habitation in the air, and walking on high with the divine Powers he became a dwelling place of Christ, who is God and the Saviour of our souls.

The same tone.

Your memorial, Venerable Father Symeon, and the meekness of your heart, blessed servant, endure for ever; for though you have passed over from us, good shepherd, you have not passed from us in spirit as you stand near God in love and dance with the Angels in heaven. With them intercede that our souls may be saved.

The same. By Kyprianos.

The casket of your relics, all-praised Father, is a source of healings; and your holy soul, united with the Angels, fittingly rejoices. Therefore, as you have boldness towards the Lord, Venerable Saint, and dance with the Bodiless ones in heaven, implore him that our souls may be saved.

The same. By Germanos.

You loved the highest philosophy, O God-bearer, and you dwelt outside the world, living above visible things; and you were revealed as a godly, untarnished mirror of God; and being ever one with Light, you gained more light and clearly met a blessed end. Intercede for our souls, wise Symeon.

Divine grace hovered over the casket of your relics, hallowed Symeon; therefore we too run to the sweet fragrance of your wonders, drawing out healing of diseases. But Venerable Father, intercede with Christ God on behalf of our souls.

One with the Holy Spirit, O Word and Son without beginning, co-maker of all and co-creator of all things visible and invisible, bless the crown of the year, guarding in peace the multitudes of the Orthodox, at the prayers of the Mother of God and of all the Saints.

The reading is from the prophecy of Isaias.

The Reading is from Leviticus.

The reading is from the Wisdom of Solomon.

At the Aposticha. Idiomel Stichera of the Indiction.

By Monk John. Tone 1.

The entrance of the year is here, summoning all the shining ones to honour it, Kallisti, Evodos and Hermogenes, brethren and champions; Symeon the equal of the angels; Jesus son of Navi; the Seven Youths of Ephesus, and the choir of Holy Women, beacon of forty fires. As we celebrate their memories together, lovers of festivals, let us eagerly cry out: O Lord, bless the works of your hands, and grant that we may pass profitably through the course of the year.

The same tone.

By the same.

Christ our God, who created all things with wisdom and brought them from non-being into being, bless the crown of the year and preserve our city unbesieged; make glad our faithful Sovereigns by your power, giving them victories against enemies, through the Mother of God granting the world your great mercy.

Tone 2.

By Kyprianos.

Wonderful are you, O God, and wonderful are your works, and your ways are unsearchable; for you are the Wisdom of God and perfect substance and power, co-operation like him without beginning and without end; therefore by your all-powerful authority you came inexpressibly, unchanged in your Godhead, from a Mother who did not know man, to visit the world, seeking the creature you had beautified, setting bounds and times, O Unchangeable, for our salvation. Therefore we cry out to you: Loving Lord, glory to you!

The same.

Verse 3: You will bless the crown of the year with your goodness, and our fields will be filled with fatness.

By Monk John.

You who created all things with wisdom, Word of the Father before the ages, and established the whole creation by your all-powerful word, bless the crown of the year with your goodness, and overthrow heresies, through the Mother of God, for you are good and love mankind.

Venerable Father, you found a fair ladder, by which you went up on high, the ladder which Elias found as a chariot of fire. He though did not leave his mount to others, but you keep your pillar even after death. Man of heaven, angel of earth, unsleeping beacon of the inhabited world, Venerable Symeon, intercede that our souls may be saved.

You, O King, Who Are and who abide even to ages without end, accept the supplication of sinners who beg salvation; and grant, O Lover of mankind, abundance to your land, giving it temperate weather; as once with David, fight alongside our faithful King against godless barbarians, for they have entered your tabernacles and defiled your all-holy place, O Saviour. But grant victories, Christ God, at the intercession of the Mother of God; for you are the victory and boast of the Orthodox.

Apolytikion of the Indiction. Tone 2.

Fashioner of all creation, who fix times and seasons by your own authority, bless the crown of the year with your goodness, Lord, preserving the Kings and your city in peace, at the prayers of the Mother of God, and save us.

You became a pillar of endurance, Venerable Father, rivalling the forefathers: Job in sufferings and Joseph in trials, and, while still in the body, the life of the Bodiless Powers. Our Venerable Father Symeon, intercede with Christ God that our souls may be saved.

Hail full of grace, Virgin Mother of God, harbour and protection of the human race; for from you the Redeemer of the world became incarnate; for you alone are Mother and Virgin, ever blessed and glorified. Intercede with Christ God to grant peace to the whole inhabited world.

And Dismissal.

At Matins

After the 1st Psalter reading, Kathisma of the Indiction.

Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

O God, who grant fruitful seasons and rains from heaven for those on earth, now too accept the petitions of your servants and deliver your city from every constraint; for your acts of pity are for all your works. Therefore bless our comings and goings, direct the works of our hands for us and grant us forgiveness of offences; for you, the Powerful One, brought all things from non-existence into being.

After the 2nd Psalter reading, Kathisma of the Ascetic.

Tone 5. The Word without beginning.

You adorned your life with self-mastery, and having slain the body, you wiped out the assaults of the foe, blessed Father; and, as a worthy heir, you passed over to God, to everlasting life; therefore do not cease to intercede that our souls may be saved.

You came to the starting block of martyrdom, Kallisti, with your two brothers faithfully proclaiming Christ our God; for having nurtured them with love you made them true spiritual vessels of Christ’s Church; therefore, as a Martyr, you were joined with them for the life on high.

Speedily accept our supplications, all-immaculate Sovereign Lady, and offer them to your Son and God; banish the difficulties of those who have recourse to you, scatter the ambushes and the insolence of those who are now in arms against your servants.

Tone 1. The soldiers watching.

Rational Lambs, having finished your course and kept the faith, faithfully you were offered through martyrdom to the Lamb and Shepherd. And so today with joy we praise your sacred memory, noble Saints, as we magnify Christ.

As to the Master of the universe and Giver of good things, with faith we fall down before you, as we fervently cry out: Entreated by your compassion, Saviour, and by the prayers of her who gave you birth, and of those who have ever been well pleasing to you, as you are good vouchsafe to grant a prosperous year to those who honour you in two natures and faithfully glorify you.

The 1st Antiphon of the 4th Tone.

Gospel of an Ascetic. Psalm 50.

Glory. At the prayers of your Ascetic…

Both now. At the prayers of the Mother of God…

Have mercy on me, O God,…

Idiomel Sticheron of the Ascetic. Tone 2.

You who created all things with wisdom, Word of the Father before the ages, and established the whole creation by your all-powerful word, bless the crown of the year with your goodness, and overthrow heresies, through the Mother of God, as you are good and love mankind.]

And the Canons.

The Canon for the Indiction. Composition of Monk John.

Ode 1. Tone 1. The Irmos.

Let us, all peoples, sing a song of victory to him who rescued Israel from the bitter slavery of Pharao, and guided him dryshod in the depth of the sea; for he has been glorified.

Troparia.

Let us all sing a song of victory to Christ, through whom all things were established, and in whom they continue unerringly, as to the subsistent Word born of God, the Father without beginning; for he has been glorified.

Let us all sing a song of victory to Christ, who at the Father’s good pleasure appeared from a Virgin and proclaimed an acceptable year of the Lord, redemption for us; for he has been glorified.

Coming to Nazareth the provider of the Law would teach on the Sabbath, instructing the Hebrews of his coming, through which, as he is merciful, he will save our race.

Theotokion.

Let us, all Believers, ever praise in song the Maiden beyond marvels, who made Christ dawn on the world and who filled all things with the joy of everlasting life; for she has been glorified.

Canon of the Holy Women, whose Acrostic is:

Steadfast Women Martyrs’ toils I sing.

Ode 1. Tone 4. I will open my mouth.

Steadfastly, O Martyrs, you struggled with the opponent, first as ascetics, then later by the contest through blood; therefore in faith we celebrate your memories.

The weakness of the flesh forgotten, wounded by love for him who for us endured cross and death, the holy women followed in his footsteps.

Worship of pagans and temples of demons you hurled to the ground with the weapon of faith, and you were offered to the heavenly temple as living treasures, all-honoured Martyrs.

Theotokion.

All spotless one, strengthened by the grace of him who dawned from your womb, the young maidens escaped the swell of tortures and were brought in your train rejoicing.

Canon of the Saint, whose Acrostic, without the Theotokia, is:

Accept the hymn, O blessed Symeon.

By Monk John.

Ode 1. Tone 8. Let us sing to the Lord.

As with the broken instrument of my tongue I weave this song for you, Godbearing Symeon, grant me through your supplications divinely inspired light of knowledge.

Persians, Ethiopians, Indians and Scythians and a multitude of Arabs recognised your wisdom, Father, and they glorified Christ who is glorified through you.

You were filled with spiritual grace; for, like Jacob, David and Moses, you appeared from the sheepfolds as leader of spiritual flocks, O blessed one.

Theotokion.

Immaculate Mother of God, hail honoured one, who contained in your womb the uncontainable God, entreat that those who sing your praise you may be redeemed.

Katavasia.

A Cross Moses traced out as he cut the Red Sea in a straight line with his rod for Israel as they marched on foot; and then united it again, overwhelming Pharao with his chariots, as with another line he marked out the invincible weapon. Therefore let us sing to Christ our God, for he has been glorified.

Of the Indiction. Ode 3. The Irmos..

Establish me, O Christ, on the unshakeable rock of your commandments, and enlighten me with the light of your face; for none is holy but you, O Lover of mankind.

Troparia.

Establish, O Good One, the fruitful vine, which your right hand has planted with love upon the earth, preserving your Church, O All-powerful.

Grant, Lord, that those who in faith sing your praise as God of the universe, may pass through this year abounding in spiritual works, well-pleasing to God.

Let the circle of the year be calm for me, O merciful Christ, and fill me with your divine words, which you appeared speaking to the Jews on the Sabbath.

Theotokion.

As the one who alone surpassing nature received the grace that surpasses mankind, Christ our God, who dwelt unaltered in your womb, we ever glorify you.

Of the Holy Women. He weakened the bow.

Strengthened by almighty strength, you overthrew the power of your opponents; therefore as victors you have been crowned by Christ.

The jaws of the wild beasts were seen to be powerless through Christ’s divine might, and you were delivered, God-bearers, unharmed as you honoured God.

Made divine by your intent on God, O Victors, you beat off the chill of polytheism and reached the warmth of the glory on high.

Theotokion.

We know and devoutly proclaim you, All-spotless One, to be most truly Mother of God; for through you the Creator deigned to speak with us.

Of the Saint..

Swiftly fleeing the icy blast of the winds, you boldly reached a dwelling of salvation, Symeon, from which you plucked the fruit of life that does not age.

Gladly you inclined your obedient ear to the Master who promised blessedness; and blessed was the way of life you found.

Having welcomed the seeds of the word in the furrows of your heart, with floods of tears, you reaped for Christ a full ear of virtues.

Theotokion.

Bride of God, ineffably you conceived the Saviour and Lord, who from troubles delivers us who call on you in truth.

Katavasia.

A Rod is accepted as a figure of the mystery; for by its budding it marks out the priest. While for the Church that once was barren the Tree of the Cross has flowered for strength and steadfastness.

Composed in the year 1813 by the revered Patriarch of Constantinople Cyril VI.

Tone 3. Today the Virgin.

You created the universe in your ineffable wisdom, and fixed the seasons by your authority; grant victories to your Christ-loving people; may you bless our goings and comings of the year, directing our works to your divine will.]

Kathisma of the Saint. Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

Burning with faith, wise Father, and despising all temporary things, you followed Christ, in the power of the Spirit, having melted your body, Venerable One, by self-mastery, ever looking towards the glory of heaven; therefore you found for your divine ascent the ladder of the pillar fitting your longing, holy Symeon. Intercede with Christ God to grant forgiveness of offences to those who feast with love your holy memory.

Tone 1. The soldiers watching.

Rational Lambs, having finished your course and kept the faith, faithfully you were offered through martyrdom to the Lamb and Shepherd. And so today with joy we praise your sacred memory, noble Saints, as we magnify Christ.

Tone 4. Joseph was amazed..

As to the Master of the universe and Giver of good things, with faith we fall down before you, as we fervently cry out: Entreated by your compassion, Saviour, and by the prayers of her who gave you birth, and of those who have ever been well pleasing to you, as you are good vouchsafe to grant a prosperous year to those who honour you in two natures and faithfully glorify you.

Of the Indiction. Ode 4.

The Irmos.

I have learned of your dispensation, All-powerful One, and I have glorified you with fear, O Saviour.

Troparia.

Your people offers you its annual firstfruits, glorifying you with Angels’ hymns, O Saviour.

As you love mankind, grant, O Christ, that those who start the year may complete it in a way pleasing to you.

Almighty, only Lord, grant to the world that the revolutions of the years be calm.

Theotokion.

Let us all hymn the Mother of God as harbour and sure hope of our souls.

Of the Holy Women. The One seated.

Having endured tortures and rackings of the body by varied means, crushing and burning of the limbs, you have inherited heavenly dwellings and enjoy the tree of life, O Admirable ones.

The Powers of heaven marvelled at the struggle of the blessed maidens, how they routed the foe, being given power in their woman’s nature by the power of him who dawned from a woman.

Having cast aside all the vanity of the world, you clung with your whole soul to God and to him alone; therefore, Brides of Christ, you endured most stoutly the toils of the ascetic life and of the martyr’s contest.

Bearing the Cross as the strongest of weapons, you stood in battle against hostile regiments. With Christ, who conquered the world by the power of his divinity, you carried off the victory.

Theotokion.

The Lord came down as rain upon a fleece into your womb, as the Prophet said of old, All-pure one, the Lord whom you bore in two natures, to whom we cry: Glory, O Christ, to your power.

Of the Saint. Lord, I have heard.

It was not on sand but on the deepest toils that you laid the foundation of your ascetic life, All blessed one, and built an unshakeable tower of virtues.

The roughest rope your body’s lot to nail it to the fear of the spirit, you found, O Venerable one, the allotment of a divine inheritance.

The hidden passions of the body ebbed away in rotting decay, that even the worms feared you as you slept.

Imitating the life-giving Dead after his voluntary passion, as in a tomb you placed yourself in a gloomy well

Theotokion.

Immaculate Mary, implore the God whom you bore to grant your servants pardon of their offences.

Katavasia.

Lord, I have heard the mystery of your dispensation; I have considered your works and glorified your Godhead.

Of the Indiction. Ode 5. The Irmos.

Rising in the night we hymn you, O Christ, without beginning with the Father, and the Saviour of our souls. Grant the world peace, O Lover of mankind.

Troparia.

O Christ, who fill all things with goodness, grant to your servants that, crowned with blessings, the many circled time may be temperate and prosperous.

Let the change of the year be an alteration for the better and a condition of peace for us who know you, O Word, to be coeternal with the Father.

Without beginning with the Father, you who are beyond time came upon earth, announcing in the Father’s name forgiveness for prisoners and new sight for the maimed.

Theotokion.

Our hopes and our confidence we place in you, Mother of God, make him to whom you gave birth kindly to us.

Of the Holy Women. The ungodly will not see.

As spotless lambs, as acceptable sacrifices, O Martyrs, you were offered to the true Lamb and Shepherd, as whole burnt offerings and acceptable holocausts.

Slain in body, you were alive in soul, O Martyrs, for you imitated the Cross, the death and the voluntary sufferings of him who slew the strength of death.

Being of one mind in many bodies, rent by divers scourges and burned by fire, the Godly-minded Martyrs confessed one Lord Jesus.

Theotokion.

Set me upright, who am fallen into a pit of temptations, and pilot me, O only all-spotless one, who gave birth to God, the pilot who by his goodness united things formerly separated.

Of the Saint. Enlighten us.

Christ showed you, Symeon, to be a new Daniel; for, through a revelation, he brought you unharmed from a pit infested with wild beasts.

Offering your whole self to the Lord, you bared yourself to the hostile elements of snow, ice and heat.

You were shown to be a new Moses and a new Elias, throughout your life living for the forty days on one meal, venerable Father.

Theotokion.

Ever implore your Son and our God, pure Mary who knew not wedlock, to send down his mercy upon us the faithful.

Katavasia.

Thrice-blessed Tree, on which Christ, the King and Lord, was stretched! Through it the one who deceived through a tree has fallen, caught by the bait of God who was nailed to you in the flesh and who grants peace to our souls.

Of the Indiction. Ode 6. The Irmos.

You saved the Prophet from the whale, O Lover of mankind, bring me too up from the deep of offences, I beg.

Troparia.

Grant, Master, that with the start of the year we may offer you the first fruits of a life that is pleasing to you.

Compassionate Saviour, by participation in your law show us who sing your praise to be full of days of the Spirit.

Theotokion.

O you who gave birth to Christ our God, we beg you, deliver from every threat those who flee to you.

Of the Holy Women. He cried out, foreshadowing.

Their foremother was overjoyed as she watched the one who formerly exiled her by trickery from Paradise broken and trampled down by women’s feet.

You combined the ascetic life with the contest of martyrdom, and now you have been joined without corruption to the Bridegroom of souls, and with joyful souls you take your places in the divine bridal chamber.

Mounting wild waves of tortures could not sink the vessels of the Martyrs, for with a strong hand they made for the divine havens.

Theotokion.

As you see the fulfilment of your words, magnify even more, O Mother of God, him who magnified you; for behold all generations truly call you blessed.

Of the Saint. Grant me a tunic.

Blessed Father, Christ displayed you as a worker of signs and wonders, having shown you to be a dwelling place of divine force.

Your body was raised on the column as on a cross; therefore you have been glorified with Christ who was raised on a tree for your sake.

Having found a pathway in the air, inspired Symeon, bring up to the heights of heaven those who faithfully sing your praise.

Theotokion.

We the faithful declare you, Mother of God, to be the temple and ark of God, living bridal chamber and gate of heaven.

Katavasia.

Jonas, stretching out his hands like a cross in the belly of the sea monster, clearly prefigured the saving Passion. Escaping from there on the third day, he was an image of the transcendent Resurrection of Christ God, who was nailed in the flesh and by his rising on the third day enlightened the world.

Kontakion of the Saint. Tone 2. Model Melody.

Seeking things above and joined to things below, you made your column a chariot of fire, through which you have become a companion of the Angels, with them unceasingly imploring Christ God on behalf of us all.

The Ikos.

What human will ever suffice to sing the praise of Symeon’s blameless life? Nevertheless with God’s wisdom I shall hymn the contests and struggles of the hero, of the one who appeared on earth as a beacon for all mortals, and by perseverance shone brightly for the choir of Angels; for singing with them unceasingly he does not cease imploring Christ on behalf of us all.

Synaxarion.

The Month of September, having 30 days.

The day has 12 hours and the night 12 hours.

On the 1st of the month, Beginning of the Indiction, that is of the New Year.

Verses.

New year’s Indiction bless for us, we pray,

O you, both Ancient and, for mankind, New.

On the same day we commemorate the marvel which took place through the Holy Mother of God in the Monastery of the Miasini; and the fire that took place.

Verses.

Strange was the catch that by itself came up

From harbour’s depth: the Virgin’s honoured image.

The commemoration of the Mother of God of the Miasini is kept because of the wonder-working and holy ikon of the Mother of God which had been thrown into the harbour of Zagouros, of the Monastery of the Miasini, through fear of the iconoclasts, and was, by God’s good pleasure, returned unharmed after many years.

The commemoration of the fire; because of the great fire which took place in Constantinople, because of our sins, in the reign of Leo the great King, nicknamed the Pick-axe, in the year 450, and which ravaged by fire most of the city in seven days.

On the same day, commemoration of our venerable Father Symeon the Stylite.

Verses.

His pillared station Symeon left behind,

And took his stand beside the Word of God.

High stepping Symeon died on the first of the month of September.

Symeon the Stylite lived in the reign of Leo the Great and when Martyrios was Bishop of Antioch. He came from the Eparchy of Cilicia, from the village of Sesan. He adopted the monastic life and having ascended a column, he persevered there for forty seven years and having become the worker of many wonders he died in peace.

On the same day, commemoration of the Venerable Martha, mother of the Venerable Symeon; and of the Venerable Evanthia; and the falling asleep of Jesus son of Navi.

Verses.

On earth of old once Martha welcomed Christ.

Now Christ in heaven, Martha, welcomes you.

The sun that once he halted left behind,

Now Jesus contemplates the Sun of glory.

This Jesus was the son of Navi and successor of Moses as lawgiver for the Hebrews. He captured Jericho, a city of foreigners and saw the Chief Captain Michael holding a sword. On learning that he was the Chief Captain of the Power of the Lord, he threw away his arms and fell at his feet. Once when fighting a battle against foreigners the sun was about to set, so in his zeal for battle he prayed to God and said: ‘Let the sun stand still’; and at once the sun stopped in its course and did not set until he had mightily routed the foreigners. He was commander of the people and led them from the wilderness and apportioned to them the land of Promise, which is Palestine. He judged the people of Israel for twenty seven years, became the dread of his enemies and, having displayed his courage and virtue in many wars, died and was buried with honour by his own people.

On the same day, commemoration of the forty Holy Women Martyrs, Virgins and Ascetics, and of the Deacon Ammoun, their teacher.

Verses.

For virgins double twenty fire and sword

Secured as Bridegroom Christ the Son of God.

A helmet heated in the flames Ammoun received:

Stripped off his covering of flesh with joy.

These Martyrs were from Adrianoupolis in Macedonia, and being Christians they followed Christ, having as their teacher the Deacon Ammoun. Arrested by Vavdos the Governor of Adrianoupolis and fiercely tortured for not worshipping the idols they prayed to God, and the priest of the idols was suspended in mid-air, was punished for many hours then fell and perished. Saint Ammoun was strung up and his sides were burned; then a red-hot helmet was placed on his head. Delivered from this, he was sent with the holy Virgins from Verroi to Heraklion in Thrace, to the tyrant Licinius; and by the latter’s decision ten of them were thrown into the flames, eight with their teacher were beheaded; another ten died by being pierced with swords in face and heart, six were cut to pieces with knives, the rest departed to the Lord having been made to swallow lumps of heated iron.

On the same day, commemoration of the Holy Martyrs, sister and brothers, Evodos, Kallisti and Hermogenes.

Verses.

The venerable Meletios the Young, ascetic on the mountain of Nyoupolis, died in peace.

The Holy New Martyr Angelis, who bore his witness in Constantinople in 1680, died by the sword.

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Of the Indiction. Ode 7. The Irmos..

The Youths brought up together in piety, despising the impious decree, did not fear the threat of the fire, but standing in the middle of the flames they sang, ‘God of our fathers, blessed are you!’

Troparia.

As we begin the year let us the Orthodox people offer the first fruits of our hymns to Christ who reigns over the kingdom without bounds, as we devoutly sing: God of our fathers, blessed are you!

O Christ who exist before the ages, Lord for ever and ever, the source of goodness, fill the year with your good gifts for us who sing: God of our fathers, blessed are you!

Theotokion.

Christ our Master, we your servants bring you in intercession your pure Mother, that your people may be delivered from every difficulty, as they sing: God of our fathers, blessed are you!

Of the Holy Women. He who saved in fire.

How undaunted your resolution, Godbearing Ammoun; for as leader of the choir of virgins you did not flinch at tortures, but died with them, as minister and initiate of God’s glory.

How wise you are, Escort of the brides; with words of courage you anoint the Martyrs: let them fix their gaze on the Bridegroom and bravely endure the pains of the flesh as they cry: God of our fathers, blessed are you!

The noble Martyrs in the stadium cried out: Maidens, let us not falter. See, the stadium is open. Let us stand bravely; Christ is holding out the crowns. Let us not spare our bodies.

Theotokion.

Blessed is the fruit of your blessed womb, whom the Powers of heaven and the ranks of mortals bless, for he has delivered us from the ancient curse, O Blessed one.

Of the Saint. Youths who honoured God.

You ended a drought for the despairing and opened for them the gates of rain, and steadied the shaken land, and you taught peoples to cry: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

As a mighty beacon of the Church and sun of many lights, O Symeon, you sent out beams in all directions , enlightened peoples and taught them to cry: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

Streams flowing together from every side, Servant of Christ, a sea of men welded together in the fold of your ascetic discipline, was taught by you to cry out: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

Of old in the arms of the Elder, but now in the tables of your heart, Venerable Symeon, Christ took his rest by his invisible power; therefore you cried: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

Theotokion.

It was fitting for him who took flesh without seed to come forth from you, immaculate Virgin; for you, O Pure one, brought forth him who surpasses all things, to whom with hymns we shout and cry: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

Katavasia.

The senseless decree of a godless tyrant, redolent of threats and blasphemies hateful to God, drove peoples to confusion. But neither the fury of wild beasts nor the roaring of the fire frightened three Youths; but united in the fire that answered with a spirit bringing dew they sang, ‘O our God and the God of our Fathers, O highly exalted, blessed are you!’

Of the Indiction. Ode 8. The Irmos..

Praise in hymns Christ God, who protected the Youths as they sang praises in the furnace and who turned the roaring furnace into dew, and highly exalt him to the ages.

Troparia.

The holy Church offers you, O Christ, as author of salvation, the first fruits of the year as she cries: Praise in hymns and highly exalt Christ to the ages.

The Creator who wisely made all things new out of nothing, and arranges the revolutions of the seasons by his will, praise in hymns and highly exalt him to the ages.

To God who arranges all things and alters the seasons for the varied guidance of mankind we sing: Praise him in hymns and highly exalt him to the ages.

Theotokion.

In the passing and the revolutions of the years the ranks of Orthodox mortals, pure Virgin Mother of God, sing your praise as God’s Mother and salvation of all.

Of the Holy Women. The Offspring of the Mother of God.

As Martyrs you wrapped yourselves in garments bright and shining as from blood, having together truly put off the humanity that was corrupted by sins, and you sang: You his works praise the Lord, and highly exalt him to all the ages.

Enlightened by abundant floods of light, the divine brightness of the spiritual Sun, you ran, O Martyrs, through the night of godlessness as you sang in unison of soul: You his works praise the Lord, and highly exalt him to all the ages.

Like sheep like spotless lambs, like divine doves and willing victims, and like unblemished sacrifices, O Martyrs, you were offered to the Creator as you sang in harmony: You his works praise the Lord and highly exalt him to all the ages.

On the orders of lawless tyrants you underwent an unjust death, your limbs cut up, battered with rods, mercilessly struck, slain by the sword; and so in joy you inherit your rich undying recompense.

Theotokion.

Women ran behind you, all pure Bride of God, sensing the sweet fragrance of the perfumes of the only-begotten Son who shone forth from your womb, and they reign with you indeed as they praise Christ to the ages.

Of the Saint.

Having left every attachment and pitying a mother’s weakness, as though living you appeared after death, crying out: Hymn the Lord and highly exalt him to all the ages.

You gave strength to a paralysed sick youth and ordered him to carry the tribal chief like his bed on his shoulders as he hymned the Lord and highly exalted him to all the ages.

He who made Job shine brightly through suffering, when your flesh was suppurating with rottenness turned you, servant of Christ, into a priceless pearl, as he glorified you, Symeon, to all the ages.

At Symeon’s entreaties, Master, you summoned a vengeful robber chief, as of old the Thief on the tree; therefore we hymn you and highly exalt you to all the ages.

Theotokion.

Virgin Mother of God, who received the Angel’s ‘Hail!’, bore the Lord of glory and made the light dawn on the world, we all hymn you and glorify you.

Katavasia.

O Youths, equal in number to the Trinity, bless the Creator, Father, God; sing the praises of the Word who descended and changed the fire to dew, and highly exalt the all-holy Spirit that grants life to all, to the ages.

The Magnificat is not sung.

Of the Indiction. Ode 9. The Irmos.

The bush that unburned blazed with fire showed an image of you pure child-bearing; and now we beseech you to quench the furnace of temptations which rages against us, that we me ceaselessly magnify you, O Mother of God.

Troparia.

O Word and Power of God, true and hypostatic Wisdom, who hold together and govern all things, dispose the season which now confronts your servants in a condition of calm

Alone you existed before the ages, as maker and sovereign of ages, three-personned, one indivisible Godhead; at the prayers of the holy Mother of God proclaim the victory to your inheritance.

Theotokion.

Saviour and Master of all, Creator and Ruler of creation, at the prayers of her who bore you without travail, give peace to your world, and guard your Church unceasingly from faction.

Of the Holy Women. Eve by the sickness.

The all-blessed Martyrs pour out streams of healings as from a fountain for those in need, they halt the ravages of disease, dispel the heat of passions, fire the hearts of those who love God, to bring forth the good lone you existed before the ages, as maker and sovereign of ages, three-personned, one indivisible Godhead; at the prayers of the holy Mother of God proclaim the victory to your inheritance.

Theotokion.

Saviour and Master of all, Creator and Ruler of creation, at the prayers of her who bore you without travail, give peace to your world, and guard your Church unceasingly from faction.

Of the Holy Women. Eve by the sickness.

The all-blessed Martyrs pour out streams of healings as from a fountain for those in need, they halt the ravages of disease, dispel the heat of passions, fire the hearts of those who love God, to bring forth the good fruit of godly deeds.

The godly Deacon Ammoun with Kelsina and forty other godly minded holy women competed like trained athletes and received their crowns; and now they dance with the Angels, while we, as is right, call them blest.

Having raised your might against the foe you were exalted and have become as Angels. You enjoy the tree of life in Paradise without constraint, O Brides of God, and now you possess a source of blessings, as you intercede for the world.

Theotokion.

Blameless Maiden, you have been revealed as the place of the mighty Wisdom beyond understanding, a living throne and gateway; therefore virgins loved you as Queen, O Virgin, and have been brought in your train, O Child of God.

Of the Saint.

As one who had shown himself a king through steadfastness in sufferings, godly Symeon, Christ approved you as sharer of his royal rule; therefore in hymns we magnify you.

Granted the grace of healing from the inexhaustible treasury of the Spirit, godly Symeon, you reward with healings those who celebrate your memory.

You have walked the path of heavenly virtue, you have displayed the prize from on high, you have reached the heavenly dwellings: intercede that our souls may be saved.

Theotokion.

You have been shown to be the bush that burned yet was not consumed by fire, by conceiving without seed, O Virgin, the God and Saviour of the world, whom we unceasingly magnify.

Katavasia.

Mystic Paradise are you, O Mother of God; untilled you brought forth Christ, who planted on the earth the life-giving Tree of the Cross. And so, as it is raised today, we worship it and magnify you.

Another.

The death that came to the race through eating of the tree has, through the Cross, today been made of no effect. For the curse on all mankind of our mother Eve has been abolished by the shoot of the pure Mother of God, whom all the Powers of heaven magnify.

Exapostilarion of the Indiction. With the Disciples.

O God of gods and Lord, three-personned nature, unapproachable, eternal, uncreated and almighty creator of the universe, we all fall before you and we implore you: as you are good, bless this present year, preserve our Sovereigns and all your people in peace, O Merciful One.

Of the Saint. The same melody.

Like a beacon, Venerable one, your light-bearing life blazed out and enlightened the whole earth with the rays of your wonders; for through a pillar, Father, you ascended as by a ladder to God, where truly exists the goal of all desires, as you intercede for those who honour you, blest Symeon.

Theotokion. The same melody.

As Saviour and Master of all creation, who fix times and seasons by your authority, crown the circle of the year, O Merciful, with blessings of goodness, preserving your people in peace, unharmed, unhurt, we beseech you, at the prayers of her who bore you and of all the godly Saints.

At Lauds we insert 4 Verses and we sing the following Idiomels.

Tone 3. By Monk John.

Word of the Father before time, who are in the form of God and who brought all creation out of non-being into being; and who fix times and seasons by your own authority: bless the crown of the year with your goodness, granting peace to your Churches, victories to our faithful Sovereign, abundant fruit of the earth and your great mercy.

By the same. Tone 4.

Your kingdom, Christ God, is the kingdom of all the ages, and your dominion is from generation to generation; you have made all things in wisdom, fixing for us times and seasons; therefore we thank you for all things and through all things we cry out: Bless the crown of the year with your goodness and grant that we may all cry out to you without condemnation: Lord, glory to you!

The same melody. By Andrew of Pyros.

Your paths, O God, your paths are great and wonderful; therefore we magnify you for the might of your dispensation, for, light from light, you visited your wretched world, and in your good pleasure, O Word, did away with the first curse on ancient Adam, and you fixed for us times and seasons for glorifying your all-pervading goodness. Lord, glory to you!

Tone 2. By Germanos.

When by your Passion, Lord, you established the whole world, then the weak clothed themselves in power: women showed manly courage against the villainous tyrant, and having reversed the mother’s defeat of old, they have reached the pleasure of Paradise, to your glory, who were born of a woman and have saved the human race.

A good fruit sprung from a good root, Symeon, holy from infancy, was nurtured on grace rather than milk; and having raised his body on a rock and his mind yet higher towards God, with virtues he built a habitation in the skies, and walking on high with the divine Powers he has become a dwelling place of Christ, God and the Saviour of our souls.

O Word, Christ God, who brought the whole universe into being, who fix times and seasons for us, bless the works of your hands, by your power make our faithful Sovereign glad, granting him strength against barbarians, for you alone are good and love mankind.

Great Doxology, and Dismissal.

At The Liturgy

Typika and Beatitudes, and from the Canons of the Indiction and the Saint from Odes 3 & 6.

Apolytikion of the Indiction. Tone 2.

Fashioner of all creation, who fixes times and seasons by your own authority, bless the crown of the year with your goodness, O Lord, preserving the Kings and your city in peace, at the intercessions of the Mother of God and save us.

Of the Mother of God. Tone 7.

Hail full of grace, Virgin Mother of God, harbour and protection of the human race; for from you the Redeemer of the world became incarnate; for you alone are Mother and Virgin, ever blessed and glorified. Intercede with Christ God to grant peace to the whole world.

Of the Saint. Tone 1.

You became a pillar of endurance, venerable Father, rivalling the forefathers, Job in sufferings and Joseph in trials, and while still in the body the life of the Bodiless ones. Our Venerable Father Symeon, intercede with Christ God that our souls may be saved.

Kontakion of the Indiction.

Tone 3. Today the Virgin.

You created the universe in your ineffable wisdom, and fixed the seasons by your authority; grant victories to your Christ-loving people; may you bless our goings and comings of the year, directing our works to your divine will.

Tone 2. Model Melody.

Seeking things above and joined to things below, you made your column a chariot of fire, through which you have become a companion of the Angels, with them unceasingly imploring Christ God on behalf of us all.

Joachim and Ann were freed from the reproach of childlessness, and Adam and Eve from the corruption of death by your holy Nativity, O Immaculate. Freed from the guilt of offences your people also celebrates it, as they cry to you: The barren woman bears the Mother of God and the nourisher of our life.

Prokeimenon. Tone 4.

Great is our God, and great his strength: * and there is no measuring his understanding.

The Reading is from the 2nd Epistle of Paul to Timothy.

The Reading is from the Epistle of Paul to the Colossians.

Alleluia. Tone 4.

Gospel according to Luke.

At that time, Jesus came to Nazareth.

Communion of the Indiction.

Bless the crown of the year with your goodness, O Lord. [Alleluia.]

And of the Saint.

The just will be held in eternal memory. Alleluia.

In the following notes the parts in square brackets are taken from the Typikon of Dionysiou and represent the fuller, monastic, use.

If the 1st of September falls on a Sunday, the Typikon is as follows. [The off ice of the Holy Women is omitted, or read at Compline.]

On Saturday evening the whole of the 1st Kathisma of the Psalter is said, even if the 1st Section is sung. At Lord, I have cried 4 Stichera of the Resurrection in the Tone of the week, 3 of the Indiction and the 3 Prosomia of the Saint. Glory of the Indiction, Tone 6, One with the Holy Spirit and Both now the 1st Theotokion of the Tone. Entrance, O joyful light, prokeimenon of the day and the Readings. At the Aposticha, the Stichera and verses from the Oktoichos, Glory of the Saint Venerable Father, and Both now of the Indiction You, O King. Apolytikia of the Resurrection, of the Indiction and of the Mother of God Hail, full of grace. [Or Resurrection, Saint and Indiction.] And Dismissal.

At Matins, at The Lord is God, Apolytkia as at Vespers, except that the Resurrection one is sung twice. The Resurrection Kathismata and that of the Indiction O God who grant fruitful seasons twice. [That is, it replaces the Theotokion each time.] After Psalm 118, the Evlogitaria, the Ypakoп, the Anavathmi of the Tone and the Prokeimenon. The Canons, of the Resurrection and of the Indiction. [Or, more correctly, that of the Resurrection and the Mother of God to 6. That is, the Irmos and Troparia of the Resurrection (=4) and 2 Troparia from the canon to the Mother of God (= 6). Of the Indiction (4) and of the Saint (4), making 14.] The Katavasias of the Cross. After the 3rd Ode, Kontakion and Ikos of the Resurrection and the final Kathisma of the Indiction As Master of the universe. [Or, Kontakion and Ikos of the Resurrection, Glory Kathisma of the Saint, Both now Kathisma of the Indiction As Master of the universe.] After the 6th Ode, Kontakion and Ikos of the Indiction, [Or, Kontakion and Ikos of the Saint] the Synaxarion of the day. The Magnificat is sung. Exapostilaria of the Resurrection, the Saint and the Indiction .At Lauds, 4 Stichera of the Resurrection and 4 of the Indiction (doubling the first), Glory of the Indiction O Word, Christ God and the usual Sunday Theotokion. [Or, 4 Stichera of the Resurrection, 3 of the Indiction and the Doxastikon of the Saint, with the appropriate verses, A hymn is due to you, O God in Sion (see the Aposticha of Vespers) and Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of holy one, Glory the Eothinon of the Sunday and the usual Sunday Theotokion. Great Doxology and the usual Resurrection Troparion. First Hour [and Catechesis of St Theodore].

At the Hours the Resurrection Apolytikion is read at each, but that of the Indiction and Saint are read alternately. The Ypakoп and Kontakion of the Saint are both read.

At the Liturgy, Typika and Beatitudes, with of which 4 Troparia of the Resurrection in the Tone of the week, and 4 from Ode 6 of the Indiction [Or, and 4 from Ode 3 of the canon of the Indiction and 4 from Ode 6 of the canon of the Saint, making 12] After the Entrance, Apolytikia of the Resurrection, the Indiction, the Mother of God, the Saint and the Church.. Kontakion of the Indiction [Or, of the Resurrection, the Indiction, the Saint, the Church and the Mother of God.] Apostle, Gospel and Communion of the Indiction [Or, of the Indiction and the Saint. Those of the Sunday are omitted.]

[After the Prayer behind the Ambo at once the Apolytiokion and Kontakion of the Saints are sung with the one to the Mother of God. After the blessing of the Kollyva the Priest enters the sanctuary, while we begin Psalm 142 and the usual Lesser Blessing of water for the 1st of the month is sung.]

At Vespers

Tone 4. You have given as a sign.

Clad in anointing and the divine vestment, revered Zachary, like an angel you ministered to God, mediating between the Fashioner and his fashioning, blessed Saint, and receiving clear revelations of the divine Spirit. And so we call you blessed, and, as we celebrate your holy festival today, we glorify the Saviour.

Zachary, inspired by God, you saw a Child, like his Father without beginning, born from the Maiden, and you spoke prophetically to your child, ‘You will be truly a Prophet, preparing his paths’. With him we call you blessed, and we observe your revered festival, most blessed God-bearer.

You became a living and breathing temple of the divine Spirit, and as with a pure heart you conversed with God in the midst of the temple, glorious Saint, you were unjustly slaughtered, finishing your godly course as a martyr, O worthy of praise. And so you ascended to the heavenly temple, with your own blood beseeching pardon for those who honour you.

Truly robed in the vestment of the priesthood of the Law you ministered according to the order of Aaron, and as you stood in the temple, O all-blessed, you clearly beheld an angelic form. And so, as we all celebrate your translation with songs, as is fitting, we praise you, Zachary, who in old age put forth glorious John. Intercede for us to the merciful God that we may be saved.

Lord, at the prayers of her who gave you birth watch over your flock, which you purchased with your precious blood, as you are compassionate, and keep it unharmed from the abuse of enemies, so that as we sing your praise we may glorify your divine condescension.

Or Cross-Theotokion.

When the sun saw you, O Lord, the Sun of righteousness, hanged upon the tree it hid its rays; and the light of the moon was turned to darkness; while your all-blameless Mother was wounded to the heart.

At the Aposticha, Prosomia.

Tone 8. O Marvellous wonder!

O marvellous wonder! The Archangel, who stands in God’s presence in the highest, brings the good tidings of the conception of the Forerunner in old age from barrenness to Zachary, the godly-minded minister. O your inexpressible providence, Master! Through which, O Christ, save our souls, for you alone are compassionate.

O marvellous wonder! Zachary’s dumbness prophesies most clearly the silence of the Old Covenant and the manifestation of the New; for silencing the completion of the Law, it revealed the light of grace. O your wise foresight, Lover of humankind! Through which watch over us all, as all-powerful.

O marvellous wonder! Zachary is revealed, Master, as a faithful Priest, a noble Martyr and glorious Prophet, who predicts what is to come, adorned with a triple crown. O the richness of your gifts, Lover of mankind! Through them, O Christ, count us all worthy of your kingdom.

As a pure priest you entered the Holy of Holies, and robed in the sacred vestment you ministered blamelessly to God, giving laws like Aaron, guiding the tribes of Israel like Moses, with the pure chiming of the bells; and so too you were slain; but your righteous blood has become for us a saving remedy and like sweet-scented myrrh opens the ears for the gaining of eternal life. Thrice-blessed Zachary, father of John the Baptist and spouse of Elizabeth, intercede insistently on behalf of our souls.

Truly indeed the multitudes of my iniquities has risen higher than my head, pure Maiden, and my iniquities have been greatly multiplied and I, coward and incorrigible, have gained unbearable and measureless burdens. Do you, then, the only righting of those who sin, by your fervent intercession come to me and save me.

Or Cross-Theotokion.

Many pains you endured at the crucifixion of your Son and God, O Immaculate, weeping you groaned and lamented, ‘Alas! my sweetest Child; how you suffer unjustly, as you wish to deliver all those born from Adam’. Therefore, all-holy Virgin, we beseech you in faith to make him merciful to us.

Apolytikion. Tone 4.

Wrapped in the vestment of priesthood, wise Zachary, you offered in a manner fitting a priest acceptable whole burnt offerings according to the Law of God; and you became a beacon and one who contemplated mysteries, manifestly bearing in yourself, O all-wise, the symbols of grace. Slain by the sword in God’s temple, Prophet of Christ, with the Forerunner intercede that our souls may be saved.

At Matins

The usual Reading from the Psalter and the Canons from the Oktoichos and of the Saint, of which the Acrostic is:

I applaud the wise High Priest, parent of the Forerunner.

By Theophanes.

Ode 1. Tone 8.

As I praise the memory of your Prophet I entreat the grace of the Spirit to work with me as I cry aloud with your mediation: Let us sing to our Redeemer and God.

Your life being found blameless was adorned with the vestment of priesthood and the light-bearing beams of prophecy, blessed Saint who spoke from God.

You were shown, Zachary, your head resplendent with the priestly headband of the Law, and as a revealer of sacred mysteries you cried aloud: Let us sing to our Redeemer and God.

Theotokion.

Robed like Aaron in the priestly tunic you received the Maiden sprung from Jesse’s root, who bore the Redeemer in her womb.

Ode 3.

When you were carrying the incense of the covenant, then, High Priest, received the birth of the Forerunner.

Like Aaron the sweet myrrh anointed you to act as priest; therefore you were counted worthy of a vision of an Angel.

Zachary begot John, dawn that foretold you, the spiritual sun, O Saviour, to the inhabited world.

Theotokion.

Make straight my life, all-pure Mother of God, who made radiant the life and house of Zachary.

The Irmos.

You are firm foundation, Lord, of those who have recourse to you; you are the light of those in darkness; and my spirit sings your praise.

Kathisma. Tone 8.

You served as priest to God according to the Law, Zachary, and you prophesied Christ incarnate from the Virgin and the Holy Spirit. You appeared to the inhabited world as a pillar of light and spoke of the daystar of righteousness who would shine on the world from on high and guide our feet into the way of peace, and who saves mankind.

Let us now call the son of Barachias blessed, because the righteous Zachary meditated on the Law like the psalm says day and night and serving the God of all in the highest, as David, great among the Prophets, said; and met his end through blood by slaughter, and he was sacrificed like an acceptable lamb for a whole offering for the Saviour of our souls.

Pure Virgin, blessed and graced by God, with the Powers on high, the Prophets and all the Saints unceasingly intercede for us with the One born from you through merciful compassion to grant us before the end correction and pardon of sins and amendment of life, that we may find mercy.

Or Cross-Theotokion.

Ever guarded by the Cross of your Son and God, O Virgin, we turn back the assaults of the demons and their wiles; as all we generations hymn you as really and truly Mother of God and with love call you blessed, as you prophesied, O Immaculate. And so by your prayers grant us forgiveness of faults.

Ode 4.

Your Prophet, Master, ministered to you faithfully with the figures of the Law and was counted worthy to see by knowledge the truth of Grace.

By a fainter light you received a clearer light, All-blessed, for by the Law Grace was truly given you as well.

Gabriel who stands in the presence of God brought you the glad tidings and revealed to, blessed Saint, the voice and Forerunner of the Word.

Theotokion.

The Fashioner of creation, who abolished the barrenness of Elizabeth, having found in you a pure abode, made you his dwelling.

Ode 5.

The turban was placed on your head, glorious Prophet, having on a seal the imprint of divine grace.

Creation rejoices at your offspring, High Priest, for you put forth the herald of repentance.

You accomplished your life virtuously, for with Elizabeth you fulfilled all the commandments of the Lord.

Theotokion.

Your tongue is moved to praise, O Saint who spoke from God, for you saw the one who knew not wedlock great with child.

Ode 6.

One who served the shadow of the Law appeared as herald of grace, our Saviour, for he was counted worthy to see your incarnation.

Adorned with inspired utterance of judgements, priest Zachary, you received the eternal Word bearing flesh.

You appeared within the confines of the temple conversing with God, Initiator inspired by God, priest and right worthy minister.

Theotokion.

Virgin Mother of God, carrying in your womb the Saviour, the Word without beginning, you were made known to Elizabeth the Prophetess.

The Irmos.

Grant me a tunic of light, most merciful Christ our God, who are wrapped in light as in a garment.

Kontakion. Tone 3.

Today the Prophet and Priest of the Most High, Zachary, the parent of the Forerunner, sets out a table of his memory, nourishing believers and mixing for them a drink of righteousness. And so we praise him as a godly initiate of God’s grace.

The Ikos.

The Hierarch received the silence of the Law, through the voice of an Angel receiving the Angel, Prophet and initiate of the coming of Christ, with the barren and sober Elizabeth. When he was born grace, redemption and our universal reconciliation were renewed; for he proclaims the Lamb and Fashioner, the One who makes nature new, who gives fruit from the barren, who appeared as Son of the Virgin. He is a godly initiate of God’s grace.

Synaxarion

On the 5th of the same month, Commemoration of Zachary the Prophet and Father of the Forerunner.

Verses

Slaughtered just like a lamb was Zachary

Within the Temple for the Lamb of God;

Zachary then on the fifth on the Temple’s pavement was slaughtered.

On the same day Saint Abdaios met his end, beaten with rods of thorns.

Verses

Martyr Abdaios rods of thorn endures,

Honours his Master who was crowned with thorns.

On the same day Commemoration of the holy Martyrs Medimnos, Urban, Theodore and with them eighty Priests and Levites, that is Deacons.

Verses

Passing through fire and water, like the Psalm,

Says Medimnos, I go to find repose.

With Urban too, great Theodore as well

With Medimnos the selfsame contest wins.

Of consecrated ministers eighteen

‘Gainst fire and water steadfastly endure.

On the same day Commemoration of Saint Peter of Athira.

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Ode 7.

When the voice of the one crying came forth from a barren womb, Zachary, he loosed the bonds of your tongue to cry out: Blessed are you, Lord God, to the ages.

The Friend of the Bridegroom was born from sterility, the Forerunner, clearly foreshadowing the Offspring of the Virgin to those who cry out with faith: Blessed are you, O God, to the ages.

Thrice-blessed Zachary you became wholly a divine instrument of the Spirit and you foretold that your child would be a prophet, as you cried: Blessed are you, O Lord, to the ages.

Theotokion.

Zachary, seeing you to be the fulfilment of the Law and the climax of prophecy, acknowledged it as he cried out: Blessed, O all-pure, is the fruit of your womb.

Ode 8.

You were revealed as a teacher of truth, for John the Forerunner going ahead prepared the paths of Christ, blest Hierarch; him we highly exalt to all the ages.

With eloquence you bless the Master who has given us salvation, the Lord of glory who dawned from David in the flesh, whom we highly exalt to the ages.

You were counted worthy of great gifts of grace, O revealer of God, who begot the Forerunner, the highest of all the Prophets, who praises and highly exalts the Lord to all the ages.

Theotokion.

Hierarch and herald of God, Zachary rejoiced and worshipped the Mother and Virgin who carried the Lord of creation. We highly exalt her to all the ages.

The Irmos.

The Lord, who was glorified on the holy mountain and who made known to Moses the bush and fire the mystery of the Ever-Virgin, praise and highly exalt to all the ages.

Ode 9.

You were filled with the inspiration of the Paraclete and set yourself to bless the Lord, O holy Priest blessed by God.

When you saw the outcome of the Archangel’s words, All-praised who spoke from God, at once you moved your tongue to blessing.

The Creator had mercy on the lost clearly remembered the covenant of Abraham, as you, filled with the Spirit, cried out in prophecy.

You have been adorned, Zachary, with crowns of contest and priesthood and the illumination of prophecy, and have shared in yet greater glory.

Theotokion.

As vessel of the Light, O Virgin, enlighten my soul, darkened by the passions, and deliver me from the exterior darkness by your prayers.

The Irmos.

We who have been saved through you, pure Virgin, confess you to be indeed Mother of God, as with the Bodiless choirs we magnify you.

Exapostilarion.

You served blamelessly as priest to God almighty in the order of the Law, O Prophet Zachary; and so, as you offered incense, an Angel appeared to you saying: You will beget the Forerunner of Christ, mediator between the Law and inspired Grace.

Theotokion.

Virgin Mother, the things fulfilled in shadow by the former Law and image have passed away, for without seed you have given birth to the God who gave the Law, for the redemption of mortals. And so establish me by the divine law who am routed by the law of sin.

And the rest as usual, and Dismissal.

At Vespers

Tone 4. As noblest of Martyrs.

Revealed as a brightly shining attendant of the three-sunned Godhead, Michael, Chief Captain of the Powers on high, you cry aloud with joy, ‘Holy are you, O Father, Holy, O Son like him without beginning, Holy also, O Holy Spirit; one glory, one kingship, one nature, one Godhead and power’.

Your form is of fire and your beauty wondrous, Michael, first of the Angels, for with your immaterial nature you pass through the ends of the earth fulfilling the commands of the Maker of all things, acknowledged as powerful in your strength and making your church, honoured with your name, a source of healings.

As it is written, Lord, you make your Angels spirits and those who minister to you a fiery flame. You have revealed Michael the Chief Captain to be the leader among the ranks of Archangels, as he obeys your wishes, O Word, and with fear raises the Thrice-holy Hymn of praise to your glory.

Rejoice with us, all you leaders of the Angels, for your commander and our champion, the great Chief Captain, hallows this present day as he appears in his holy place. Therefore as is fitting we sing his praises as we cry out, ‘Shelter us in the shelter of your wings, great Archangel Michael’.

Rejoice with us, all you choirs of Virgins, for our defence and intercessor, protection and great refuge by her revered and godlike concern brings comfort on this present day to the afflicted. Therefore as is fitting we sing her praises as we cry out, ‘Shelter us by your godlike protection, all-pure Lady, Mother of God’.

At the Aposticha, Prosomia.

Tone 1. Joy of the heavenly hosts.

As leader of the heavenly hosts and strong defender, guard and deliverer of those on earth we sing your praise with faith, Michael Chief Captain, as we implore you to deliver us from every pain that brings destruction.

The leader of the godlike Powers on high today invites the choirs of mortals to celebrate with Angels one radiant feast of their assembly and together sing to God the Thrice-holy Hymn.

Michael, godlike mind, guard under the shelter of your godlike wings us who have recourse to you in faith, and protect us throughout our life, and at the hour of death, Archangel, be present for us all as a most kindly helper.

As leader and champion and prince of the Angels, glorious Chief Captain, free from every constraint and affliction, diseases and dread sins those who sincerely sing your praise and clearly beseech you, as one immaterial who contemplate the Immaterial and are made radiant by the unapproachable light of the Master of glory; for he took flesh from a Virgin for our sake through love for humankind, as he wished to save that which is human.

Apolytikion. Tone 4. Lifted up on the Cross.

Chief Captain of the heavenly armies, we the unworthy implore you to protect us by your supplications with the shelter of the wings of your immaterial glory, guarding us as we fall down and insistently cry out: Deliver us from dangers, as Chief Captain of the Powers on high.

The mystery hidden from all eternity and unknown to Angels, has been revealed to those on earth through you, O Mother of God: God being made flesh in a union without confusion, and willingly accepting the Cross for us, through which he raised the first-formed man and saved our souls from death.

At Matins

After the 1st Reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Tone 4. Lifted up on the Cross.

As we frequent your revered temple and in it devoutly magnify you as leader of the immaterial hosts, with faith we beseech you, godlike Chief Captain, ‘Rescue us all from the tyranny of enemies, and deliver us from the future threat and from Gehenna by your entreaties’.

May we, the unworthy, never cease to speak of your acts of power, O Mother of God. For if you had not stood by to intercede, who had delivered us from so many dangers? Who had kept us free until now? May we never desert you, Sovereign Lady; for you ever save your servants from disasters of every kind.

After the 2nd Reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Tone 4. Lifted up on the Cross.

Chief Captain of the bodiless ministers, you stand in God’s presence and shine with the radiance that comes from there; make bright and sanctify those who faithfully sing your praise, deliver them from every tyranny of the foe and ask for a peaceful life for the Rulers and for all the ends of the earth.

Let us humble sinners now hasten to the Mother of God, and let us fall down in repentance as we cry from the depth of the soul: Sovereign Lady, help, have compassion on us, hasten, for we perish by a multitude of offences; do not turn your servants empty away; for we have gained you as our only hope.

The Canon of the Archangel, of which the Acrostic is:

I sing the first of the bodiless minds. Joseph.

Ode 1. Tone 4.

Always ablaze with the divine radiance, make bright my soul to sing your praise, Chief Captain of the hosts on high, strength of all who have recourse to you.

The Mind before all eternity declared you, all-honoured Chief Captain, to be leader of the heavenly army, light of those in darkness and brightness of his Church.

Leader in spirit of the heavenly Minds, you have been given to those below, all-noble Michael, as rampart and might and as a sword that slaughters and wipes out our foes.

Theotokion.

All-blameless Virgin, the glory of the Angels, the help of mankind, help me who am at sea and ever falling and endangered by a tempest of sin.

Another Canon. Same Tone.

Also by Joseph.

Let us sing with harmonious praise the prince of the Angels, the shining sun, who sheds his light on the earth with the splendours of his wonders and ever drives away the gloom of temptations.

Lord, who made the Angels a flame of fire as they mightily fulfil your all-holy will, you revealed resplendent in their midst like a star Michael, the Chief Captain.

Let us all sing the praise of the loving Lord who has given us as a wall invincible to foes and an immovable support holy Michael who always savings us from dangers.

By your godlike care you ever render your godlike house a place of propitiation for sinners, a refuge for the wronged and a place that puts all diseases to flight, O first of God’s angels.

Crush the children of Hagar without ceasing who are roused against us, glorious one, and rescue us from their expectation and oppression, that we may always honour you as our loving protector.

Theotokion.

It is a wonder beyond understanding how God the incomprehensible has been made one with mortals by being born hypostatically from you in the flesh, O Virgin who knew not wedlock, saving me who had been made subject to corruption by the serpent’s fraud.

Ode 3.

With godlike strength, all-praised Captain of the Angels, you surround the whole earth, taking us from dangers who call upon your godlike name.

Most godlike Chief Captain of God, you have been named divine herald, defender of believers who cannot be put to shame. guide and instructor of the erring.

Michael, chief Angel, worthy of wonder, you have appeared as a clear mirror of the divine light, for you receive the resplendent reflections of the holy Spirit.

Theotokion.

The One who by his will brought into being the immaterial Minds dwells by his will in your material womb, All-blameless; The one who cannot be beheld is seen in flesh.

Another.

As you stand beside the throne of the Trinity, made divine by participation and illumined by the rays that come from there, illumine those who sing your praise, Chief Captain of God.

When Jesus saw you holding a sword in your hand, he was struck with amazement at your fearsome sight and cried out: What do you now command your servant to do, Lord?

You were set by God as ruler of the Jewish nation; but now, Chief Captain, as helper and deliverer of Christians, delivering them from constraints and afflictions.

Let us give greatness to the Lord, who has given us a champion and helper in afflictions, the great Chief Captain, through whom we are ever rescued from godless barbarians.

Chief Captain, imploring God the Most High, speedily bring back those who been led away and miserably enslaved to foreign nations.

Theotokion.

Daniel describes you as a great mountain, O Immaculate, while Avvakoum as a mountain shaded by virtues and David as a curdled mountain, from which God has become incarnate and redeemed the world.

Kathisma. Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

Having by the Creator’s command become the leader of the heavenly hosts and minister of the divine glory, you are a saving mediator for Christians, taking them from dangers by you immaterial glory; therefore as it fitting we all praise you as we hymn your godlike festival, Michael, Chief Captain. Intercede with Christ God to grant forgiveness of faults to those who celebrate with love your godlike wonders.

The Wisdom and Word you conceived in your womb unscathed, O Mother of God; you bore for the world the One who possesses the world and held in your arms the One who hold all things and who nourishes all, the Creator of nature. Therefore I implore you, all-holy Virgin, that I may be delivered from faults when I am about to stand before the face of my Maker. Sovereign Lady, pure Virgin, grant me then your help; for you are able to do whatever you wish, O all-praised.

Ode 4.

The primal Mind brought into being the divine Minds by his will and created in their midst Michael as prince, illumined by all-blessed participation and blazing with thoughts whose origin is God.

All-revered Michael you raise a holy hymn with Thrones, Principalities, Powers, Authorities and the sacred Dominions, to the Trinity, as you save those who sing your praise.

We magnify the Maker and Lord of all things, who has given us through his compassion a great safeguard and infallible wall and bulwark, Michael, the resplendent Chief Captain.

Theotokion.

Of old the Revealer of sacred mysteries was initiated in mind into the strange marvel of your child-bearing, O Virgin, seeing you inspirit most clearly as a shaded mountain, from which there came the Holy One, God in a body.

Another.

As of old you put to flight the horde of Sennachirim’s people by your godlike ordinance, so smash the children of Hagar who war and descend on the faithful people, Michael Chief Captain.

How fearsome is your form, how truly wondrous your beauty, Michael, how resplendent your glory, which, as you accomplish unnumbered marvels, you reveal to all who love you.

As you traverse the things on high you visit fearsomely each day those below, rescuing from many disasters, dangers and afflictions all those who call to you, Minister of God.

See, the divine place; see, the refuge of the afflicted; see, the all-holy house, which the great Chief Captain reveals a truly a haven of many who being saved.

You appeared as a pillar of fire to godly minded Archippos, when a lawless people was hasting to flood with limitless waters your sacred enclosure, O Prince of the Powers on high.

Theotokion.

Gabriel came bringing you the ‘Hail’ from on high, O All-pure; with him therefore we cry aloud: Hail Gate, through which Christ alone has passed, the God who saves humanity.

Ode 5.

You appeared at the head of the Israel of old, at the commands of the One who appeared to mortals from Jacob in the solidity of a body, O bodiless Michael, Chief Captain of the Angels.

Deified by immaterial splendours through divine participation, you give to us also the illuminating radiance, O First of Angels, as you wondrously work marvels.

You godlike church has been made lovely by grace; for as you visit it you reveal it be an ocean of healings and a remedy against passions, Michael First of Angels.

Theotokion.

God declared you to be higher than the spiritual Angels, O Immaculate, when he came down into your all-blameless womb. Ever implore him to take pity on those who sing your praise.

Another.

Knowing beforehand the marvels that you were to accomplish in your shrine, O First of Angels, the heralds of the Word proclaimed it beforehand to all. We see clearly their fulfilment.

At your divine prompting, Archangel, he raised a house for prayer when he saw the cure of the child by the water which teemed with grace, he who before had blasphemed your gifts.

Approach, draw grace and mercy together! The inexhaustible source of healings lies open for all; the source which the Chief Captain revealed to us by divine intimations.

Sight is given to the blind, hearing to the deaf, ease of movement to all the lame, speech to the dumb in your godly house, Michael First of Angels, provider of blessings.

Crush the insolence of the barbarians who seek to wipe out your flock, Chief Captain; deliver those who have been taken prisoner by them, that they may ever praise you with us.

Theotokion.

You surpass the angelic Powers and you gave birth to the God and king of all. With them, all-holy Lady, implore him to save us all.

Ode 6.

The multitude of the faithful rejoices as it praises you, and glorifies the all-holy Word who united mortals with Angels, Michael, by his goodness.

You appeared and saved the army of Israel, and fulfilling the divine ordinances, Chief Captain, you destroyed their enemies and wiped them out completely.

When he saw you Jesus, son of Navi, worshipped and, seized by reverence and fear, asked your revered and holy name, Prince of Angels.

Theotokion.

Blessed the people who ever calls you blessed, O blessed one you gave birth to the blessed God, who by an ineffable union has made mortals divine through pity.

Another.

Those who of old wished to obliterate by a river’s streams the water of blessing which you, Archangel, had granted, you rendered ineffectual by your fearsome visitation.

Of old Moses struck a rock and waters gushed out; while now, when you struck a rock, the streams of rivers were swallowed up, witnessing still to the marvel, godlike Archangel.

Those who of old were clad in the gloom of unbelief by the folly of idols attacking your godlike house were manifestly granted the light of knowledge at your prayers.

Your form and fiery nature illumines believers, but consumes unbelievers, Chief Captain of the divine ministers, defender of those who with sincere faith sing your praise.

Imitating in all things the divine compassion of the Master, you stretch out your hand to the humble, heal the bruises of souls and bring to an end the pains of those who have recourse to you, Holy Archangel.

Theotokion.

The Prophet foresaw you as a volume in which the Word was written by the finger of the Father, O Virgin; implore him to write down in the book of life us who devoutly glorify you.

Kontakion. Tone 2. Model melody.

Chief Captain of God, Minister of divine glory, guide of mankind and Prince of the Bodiless Powers, ask for what is for our good and for God’s great mercy, as Chief Captain of the Bodiless Powers.

Ikos.

You said in the Scriptures, immortal Lover of mankind, that multitudes of Angels rejoice over one person who does penance. We therefore in our iniquities, O only sinless One who knows the heart, dare each day to beseech you, as you compassionate, to take pity on us and send down to us compunction, unworthy though we are, granting us pardon, Master. For on behalf of us all there intercedes the Chief Captain of the Bodiless Powers.

Synaxarion.

On the 6th of the month the Commemoration of the amazing wonder that took place at Colossae in Phrygia through the Chief Captain Michael.

Verses.

New Noл to your church, Michael, you came,

At Chonae made an end to river’s flood.

Michael, Chief Captain of the Angel hosts,

Consumed by envy at the marvels which took place in the church of the Chief Captain Michael, certain pagan men planned to divert the river which flowed nearby against the church, so as to flood the church and destroy Archippos, the honoured man who dwelt in it. The divine Archangel simply appeared and, telling Archippos to take courage, struck the rock with a staff, making a passage for the river in it. From that day to this it is visible passing through and hollowing out its passage.

On the same day the Contest of the holy Martyrs Evdoxios, Zeno, Romulus and Makarios.

Verses.

Zeno, Evdoxios and Romulus were slain,

On the same day one thousand one hundred and four holy soldiers and Saint Kalodoti met their end by the sword.

Verses.

Martyrs one thousand, ten times ten and four,

A single end accomplished by the sword.

Her head by sword struck off, Kalodoti

On the same day the Saints Faustus the presbyter, Makarios, Andrew and the monk Vivos, Kyriakos, Dionysios, Andronikos; and saints Andropelagia and Thekla; and the sea captain Theoktistos and another Kyriakos the commoner met their end by the sword.

Verses.

Faustus, when through a sword he left the earth,

When Andrew and Makarios died by sword

The crown of virtue Vivos is denied

The crown of martyrdom had he not won.

With Dionysios a sword has slain

Two who with Dionysios were of one mind.

To execution, as did Thekla too.

Seaman Theoktistos, his head struck off,

Steers his soul’s vessel to the vault above.

Kyriakos a commoner, but by the sword

A fellow banqueter of Martyrs’ choir.

On the same day there coincided the dedication of the most holy Mother of God at the Second in the house of St Irene.

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Ode 7.

As he kept watch Daniel saw you standing with him making him understand the vision he had seen at the Ubal, O Gabriel formed of lightning, and after this showing him Michael.

In faith let us praise with mighty voice the godlike and light-bearing guides of the Angels, Michael and Gabriel, our good comforters, defenders and guardians.

Fair and all-comely and godlike, in spirit you became the leader of the immaterial ministers, Michael, radiant with light. With them therefore intercede on behalf of us all.

Theotokion.

Seeing the eternal Word of the supreme Mind dwelling ineffably and fearsomely in you, O Maiden, the Archangel Gabriel cried out: Hail, blessed throne of the Most High!

Another.

When Daniel once saw you standing with him, wholly seized with apprehension, he was afraid and approaching your feet he was made to understand clearly the revelation of hidden mysteries, as he cried: Blessed are you, the God of our Fathers.

Those taken away bound by attacks of nations and who, finding themselves in far distant places, call upon you, Chief Captain of God, you bring back again as they cry with joy: Blessed are you, the God of our Fathers.

The choirs of Angels, perceiving you praised with love by choirs of mortals, are filled with perpetual joy, and glorify God, who through compassionate pity has mystically united those below with the heavens, Archangel Michael.

What place does not share in your limitless wonders? What city does not have you as champion? What soul of those in trouble does not call you its helper, Chief Captain of God? as it cried out harmoniously: Blessed are you, the God of our Fathers.

Guide of the erring, defender of the oppressed, consolation of the faint-hearted, calmest haven of those storm-tossed by spirits, surety of sinners, visitation of the sick, beacon of those in darkness are you, Archangel of God.

Theotokion.

All-pure, Immaculate Lady, as you gave birth in the flesh to the Saviour and God and Redeemer and Master, ever implore him that we who sing the praise of his acts of pity beyond understanding may receive release from dire troubles and forgiveness of many sins.

Ode 8.

Michael you have been declared captain of the bodiless, spiritual hosts, saving intercessor for humans, godlike servant of God, as you sing without ceasing: All you his works, bless, praise the Lord.

Archangels Michael and Gabriel, the two beacons all light, who guide creation with light with the beacon fires of the Godhead, dispel the fog of dread troubles.

As skilled pilots, O Archangels, guide safely to the haven of the divine will the barge my soul, fallen foul and endangered by a tempest of sins.

Theotokion.

As bridal escort the godlike Archangel came and addressed with his ‘Hail!’, O Bride of God without bridegroom, the glory of the Angels and the protection and wall of defence of humans.

Another.

You pass through earth like lightning, fulfilling the divine will, you traverse the heavens, leading the Angels; great is your glory, beyond understanding the numberless wonders which fearsomely you accomplish in all creation.

The eye-witnesses of the One who appeared in a body for our sake, Philip the far-famed and the greatest Divine, by divine inspirations foretell the inexhaustible grace of your healings, O First of Angels.

With a rod Moses of old divided the sea; and now the Chief Captain of God with invisible power, as with a visible rod, channels the waters, which flowed in disorder, into the rock as in a funnel.

The revered house of the prince of the Angels is revealed as an immense heaven, in which by wonders as by stars all the hearts of the faithful are illumined, as they glorify God the giver of blessings to the ages.

As once you prevented the irrational advance of Balaam by the fearful halting of his irrational beast by a word, Commander of the Angels, render the sons of Hagar, who are each day stirred up irrationally against us, ineffectual by your prayers.

Theotokion.

You bore a fire which in no way consumed your womb, O Virgin. You gave birth to the Word of God who delivers from unreason the words that had obeyed the deceiver and disobeyed the God who made them and who loves mankind.

Ode 9.

Behold the fair glory of your godlike house, Archangel, resplendent with your radiant boldness. It sends forth lighting flashes of wonders and by divine grace dispels each day the darkness of diseases.

As fair and comely yoke-fellows you serve the Masters commands for those on earth, Archangels, delivering them from dangers and sending out to all saving illumination by the divine Spirit.

Today the bodiless and godlike Minds rejoice with us, as they see the great and radiant Archangel being praised by all, as he entreats for us illumination and redemption from faults.

O godlike and shining pair, Archangels, Michael all-honoured and Gabriel all-glorified, as you stand in the presence of the holy Trinity deliver us from the liability of faults and from eternal punishment.

Theotokion.

At the voce of the Angel Gabriel you conceived God the Word, O All-blameless, who by a word made the hosts on high and grants reason to praise his holy condescension beyond reason and understanding.

Another.

As you appeared to men through the compassion of your pity, O Word, to protect them from evil harm you appointed Angels for them, among them Michael the wondrous. Through whom we implore you to grant us all pardon of offences.

Every believer ever addresses you a song, who without ceasing with many tens of thousands in the highest raise the thrice-holy hymn. Bring us all to God, rescuing us from disasters and toils, O prince of Angels.

Let creation leap for joy as it mystically sings the praise of the great Archangel of the Lord; for he is the guide of the erring and haven for many who are storm-tossed by disasters and temptations, physician of the sick and fount of wonders.

You have hallowed this revered temple and revealed it as a source of wonders, in which we stand together and cry out with faith: O Archangel, ask for us release from sins, deliverance from disasters and great calm.

Theotokion.

You appeared wider than the heavens, O Virgin, for in a manner beyond explanation you contained God, whom the choirs of Bodiless Powers mystically praise. Implore him, pure Maiden, that we who call you blessed with never silent voices may all be saved.

Exapostilarion. Women hear.

All humanity, assemble together and see; contemplate the strange wonder that has been accomplished in Chonae. Michael, the bodiless one, split the rock with a staff and speared rivers that were flowing down unchecked to become holy water.

Theotokion. Same melody.

Alas, wretch that I am, through my incontinence of old I was thrust from the greater image in which I shared by God’s action. But you, O Christ, in your compassion, ineffably became my fellow and shared that which worse, renewing me, O Saviour, from virgin blood.

At Lauds we insert 4 Stichera, and sing Prosomia.

Tone 1. Joy of the heavenly hosts.

With great boldness you lead the heavenly powers and stand before the throne unendurable in glory, eye-witness of things ineffable; by your intercessions, Michael Chief Captain, save us who are constrained by dangers and temptations, we implore.

Manifestly you are first of the bodiless Angels and minister of that divine radiance, eye-witness and initiate; save us, Michael Chief Captain, who yearly honour you devoutly and faithfully sing the praise of the Trinity.

Where your grace overshadows, Archangel, from there the power of the devil is driven out; the Morning Star who fell cannot bear to remain in your light. And so we beg you, by your mediation quench his fiery darts which are hurled against us, rescuing us from his stumbling blocks, Michael Archangel worthy of praise.

We faithful call you blessed, Virgin Mother of God, and we glorify you as is fitting, the unshakeable city, the unbreachable wall, the impregnable defence and refuge of our souls.

Great Doxology and Dismissal.

At Vespers

Of the Mother of God. Tone 1.

The spiritual beams of universal joy have dawned for the world, at your nativity, O all-pure, foreshadowing for all the Sun of glory, Christ God. For you have been declared the mediator of true gladness and grace.

This pre-festal glory of yours, O all-pure, announces in advance to all the peoples the fair deeds of your kindness; for you are for us the source of present gladness and the cause of the joy to come, and the enjoyment of divine delight.

The Maiden who contained God, the pure Mother of God, the glory of the Prophets and the daughter of David is being born today of Joachim and holy Anne, and she turns aside the curse of Adam, which was upon us, by her child-bearing.

Your all-honoured nativity, All-holy and pure Virgin, the multitudes of Angels and we, the human race on earth, call blessed; because you became the Mother of the Maker of all things, Christ God. Do not cease to implore him on our behalf, we beg, who after God place all our hopes on you, all-praised Mother of God, who knew not wedlock.

At the Aposticha, Prosomia. Tone 8.

O amazing wonder! How from a childless mother and fruitless sterility a rod is growing which bears a flower, the Mother of God who knows not wedlock, from the righteous Joachim and Anne. Therefore too the assembly of Prophets and the whole company of Patriarchs now rejoices at her nativity.

Today David exults, Jesse now leaps for joy and Levi is magnified; Joachim the righteous rejoices in spirit and Anne is freed from childlessness at your nativity, immaculate Mary, graced by God. The company of Angels with us mortals all call your godlike womb blessed.

Rejoice, company of mortals; rejoice, temple of the Lord; rejoice, holy mountain; rejoice, divine table; rejoice, lampstand all filled with light; rejoice, honoured glory of the orthodox; rejoice, Mary, Mother of Christ God; rejoice, all-blameless; rejoice, throne of fire; rejoice, tabernacle; rejoice, bush unconsumed by fire; rejoice, hope of all.

From the righteous Joachim and Anne there has dawned for us he universal joy: the all-praised Virgin, who through her surpassing purity becomes the living temple of God, and is alone acknowledged to be in truth Mother of God. At her intercessions, Christ our God, send down peace on the world and to our souls your great mercy.

Apolytikion. Tone 4.

From Jesse’s root and from David’s loins Mary the child of God is being born for us today, and so the universe rejoices and is renewed; heaven rejoices together with the earth. Praise her families of the nations. Joachim rejoices and Anne keeps festival as she cries, ‘The barren gives birth to the Mother of God, the nourisher of our life’.

At Matins

After the 1st Reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Tone 1.

Born wondrously from barren birth pangs, you bore a Child beyond nature from virgin loins; for you appeared as a fair shoot and blossomed with life for the world. Therefore the Powers of heaven cry out to you Mother of God, ‘Glory, O honoured one, to your coming forth! Glory to your virginity! Glory to your child-bearing, alone all-immaculate!’

After the 2nd Reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Tone 5.

All things of heaven now rejoice, the human race with them keeps festival, and the Prophets mystically exult with them; for she whom they foresaw in types in ancient generations, bush and jar, cloud, gate and throne, and great mountain, is being born today.

Psalm 50 and the Canons of the Forefeast of the Mother of God and of the Saint.

Of the Mother of God, of which the Acrostic is:

I hymn the birth of the Maiden, child of God. Joseph.

Ode 1. Tone 4. Irmos.

I will open my mouth and it will be filled with the Spirit, and I will utter a word for the Queen and Mother, and I will be seen keeping glad festival, and rejoicing I will sing her Nativity.

Troparia.

In gladness let us today with joy sing the praise of the nativity of God’s Mother; for she also gave birth to joy for the inhabited world, abolishing the grief of our Foremother.

From a barren mother she who makes sin barren comes forth, whom the law foretold and the preaching of those inspired by God prophesied, the all-pure and all-blameless Lady.

You have become the temple and palace of the King, in which he who is beyond being made his dwelling and will make believers a habitation of the holy Trinity.

You have been declared loveliest of bridal chambers, highest throne of God, O Bride of God, in whom he dwelt in the flesh and rouses those who sit in the darkness of destruction to the light of knowledge by his goodness.

Of the Mother of God. Ode 3. Irmos.

Because the barren has given birth, the Church from the nations, and she of many children, the Synagogue, has grown weak, to our wondrous God let us cry aloud: Holy are you, O Lord!

Troparia.

From the fruitless earth the fruitful earth is being born, whose fruit will be the husbandman of blessings and the life-bearing ear of corn which nourishes all by divine command.

Today the rod of virginity has sprouted, from which a flower will blossom, God our planter, who cuts away rotten shoots in his supreme goodness.

See, the unhewn mountain from a childless rock bears as its fruit the spiritual stone born from it, which will bring about the crushing of the all the wooden idols of the Boaster.

The outline sketches of the Law foreshadowed you, O Maiden; for outside nature’s laws you bore in your womb the Lawgiver who kept you, beyond reason, incorrupt and undefiled.

The Irmos.

Your Church, O Christ, rejoices in you and cries: You, Lord, are my strength, my refuge and my firmament.

Kathisma of the Saint. Tone 4.

Saved through faith you have become, courageous Sozon, a saving haven for the storm-tossed by the providence of Christ God; for you pour forth rivers of healings for those who yearn, you end each day the burning heat of fevers. And so with faith we honour your godlike memory.

Let heaven rejoice and earth be glad; for the heaven of God, the bride of God has been born on earth from promise. The barren suckles an infant, Mary; and Joachim rejoices at his offspring, saying: A Rod has been born to me from which the flower, Christ, has blossomed from the root of David. Truly an amazing wonder!

Of the Mother of God. Ode 4. Irmos.

He who is seated in glory on the throne of the Godhead, Jesus, higher than all godhead, came on a light cloud with unsullied palm and saved those who cry: Glory to your power, O Christ!

Troparia.

A Maiden higher than the Angels is being brought to birth on earth, beyond compare in holiness and purity, who will give birth to Christ, the purity, holiness and complete redemption of all.

Blessed has Anne’s womb become, for she has brought to birth her who will contain in her womb the blessed Word, who cannot be contained, and who grants rebirth to all believers.

Now the fog of wickedness begins to grow less; for the living cloud of the sun has dawned from barren loins, the All-blameless one. Her radiant birth let us now celebrate.

As a fruitful olive which blossomed from the root of Jesse, O Virgin, Anne made you blossom, whose blossom is the merciful Word, whose mercy and truth advance at all times.

Of the Mother of God. Ode 5. Irmos.

The universe was amazed at your divine glory, for you, O Virgin, who did not know wedlock, have passed over from earth to eternal mansions and to life without end, giving salvation as the prize to all who sing your praise.

Troparia.

Now the sealed volume is being brought to birth, which by nature’s law no mortal will read, kept as a dwelling for the Word, as the books of those inspired in spirit foretold.

The saving vine has been brought to birth today, which will flower with the pure cluster that pours out divine sweetness, from which all who mystically drink will gather divine and saving joy.

Angels, leap for joy, forming a choir with mankind. Today the Virgin, born from a barren womb, has made an to grief and is the harbinger of joy for those who keep the festival of her divine nativity.

The godly Prophet wrote of you, O Maiden, most clearly in prophecy as the new volume in which by the Father’s finger will be written the Word, who with loving-kindness inscribes in the book of life all those who obey his authority.

Of the Mother of God. Ode 6. Irmos.

As we celebrate this divine and honoured feast of the Mother of God, come, godly-minded people, let us clap our hands as we glorify God who was born of her.

Today has been brought to birth the bridge which leads humanity to light, heavenly ladder, most manifest mountain of God, the Maiden Mother of God, who we call blessed.

Anne, the shell-fish, brings forth the purple which dyed the fleece of the embodying of the King to come. As is fitting let us sing her praise.

The source has now come forth from a tiny drop, the All-blameless who bore the abyss of salvation and will bring to an end the limitless streams of the cult of many gods.

You sprouted from a barren root and by your divine shoot beyond nature you cut off thorn of evil root and branch, O ever-blessed Maiden, Mother of God.

The Irmos.

I will sacrifice to you with a voice of praise, O Lord, the Church cries out to you, cleansed from the filth of demons by the blood which flows in pity from your side.

Kontakion of the Forefeast. Tone 3.

Today the Virgin and Mother of God, Mary, the untouched bridal chamber of the heavenly Bridegroom is being brought to birth from barren womb by God’s counsel, to be made ready as the chariot of the Word of God; for to this she was predestined, the gate of God and Mother of true life.

Ikos.

To a barren mother a fruit has been given Mary the child of God, whom the godly Prophets once foresaw in spirit. As we see her her today in the bosom of Anne, leaping for joy, with faithful Joachim let us gather for the feast in spirit, and let us address them from afar, saying: Now the restoration of the world has blossomed from a fruitless womb, the gate of God and Mother of true life.

Synaxarion.

On the 7th of the same month, Commemoration of the holy Martyr Sozon.

Verses

Torments of body Sozon once endured,

Sozon, his radiant flesh fiercely pounded, died on the seventh.

On the same day, Commemoration of the holy Apostles Evodos and Onesiphoros.

On the same day, Saint Eupsychios met his end by the sword.

Verses

Offers his Fashioner his soul with joy.

On the same day is celebrated the dormition of the Venerable Loukбs of the Eparchy of Lykaonia, third Superior of the Monastery of the Saviour, called ‘Of the Deep Torrent’.

At the intercessions of your Saints, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Of the Mother of God. Ode 7. Irmos.

The godlike Youths did not worship creation instead of the Creator, but bravely trampling on the threat of fire, rejoicing they sang: O highly exalted Lord and God of our fathers, blessed are you!

Troparia.

Joachim and Anne are blessed, having brought to birth the truly blessed, pure Mother of God, who bore the blessed Word, who makes all the faithful blessed.

As a precious gift your parents have gained you, O all-pure, who conceived God who has enriched with greater gifts those who cry: God of our fathers, blessed are you!

Your breasts, Anne called by God, are far better than wine, because with your good breasts you gave suck to the one who gave suck the Word supremely good, the giver of milk and nourisher of everything that has breath.

Leap, strike your harp and dance, David inspired by God; for see, the ark, which you foretold of old, has come forth from a barren womb, kept for the king and God of creation.

Of the Mother of God. Ode 8. Irmos.

The Offspring of the Mother of God saved the innocent Youths in the furnace. Then he was prefigured, but now in reality he gathers the whole world which sings: All you works, praise the Lord, and highly exalt him to all the ages.

Troparia.

Let us raise our voice in songs of praise as we honour the divine nativity of her who by the Spirit gave a body to the Word beyond praise and godhead, and let us cry: You his works, praise the Lord and highly exalt him to all the ages.

Mountains, break out in gladness, Apostles and Martyrs, dance, Ascetics and Righteous now rejoice at the nativity today of the Mother of the Lord, as you cry out: Praise the Lord and highly exalt him to all the ages.

The fragrant apple has blossomed and the divine rose has been appeared and has today spread its fragrance to the ends of the earth and brought to an end the foul stench of our sin, the All-pure and the Mother of the Word. We highly exalt her to all the ages.

Human nature, barren of the honoured graces of the divine Spirit, rejoice today as you behold the Child of God brought to birth from a barren mother, and cry aloud: You his works, praise the Lord and highly exalt him to all the ages.

Irmos.

Stretching out his hands Daniel closed the jaws of the lions in the den; while the Youths, lovers of true religion, girded with virtue, quenched the power of the fire as they cried: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord!

Of the Mother of God. Ode 9. Irmos.

Let all those born of earth, bearing torches, in spirit leap for joy; let the nature of the immaterial Minds keep festival as it honours the sacred festival of God’s Mother, and let it cry out: Hail, all-blessed Mother of God, pure and ever-virgin.

Troparia.

See, the holy place of God has been openly revealed; the glorious city of the King has been built high, the shining Paradise has radiantly flowered, the source of Paradise, and the dwelling of men with God.

The lamp has appeared today, and the golden lampstand, that displays the pre-eternal light which, having dwelt in her, will illumine all who are in the night of evils, bring to an end the gloom of the cult of many gods and truly through faith make all partakers in the day.

Today the earth dances, for it has seen brought to birth the fairest heaven of God. Having dwelt in it in the flesh he will make mortals mount beyond the heavens and in his goodness make them divine. As we sing his praise with faith we magnify him.

The beauteous pair, Anne and Joachim, have put forth the spotless heifer, from whom the fatted calf came forth and has been sacrificed for the world, taking away the faults of mankind, putting and end to sacrifices offered to the demons.

Pure Mother of God who bore the light, enlighten us, who in spirit keep the festival of your light-bearing nativity, and show us to be partakers of the light to come; and by your motherly entreaties grant us peace and rescue from dread troubles.

Irmos.

A cornerstone not cut by hand, O Virgin, was cut from you, an unhewn mountain: Christ who joined together separated natures; and so with gladness, Mother of God, we magnify you.

Exapostilarion of the Martyr.

Armoured with the weapon of your precious Cross, O Word, your Champion stoutly overcame the hostile powers and put the tyrants to shame, and for your sake he struggled and, my Christ, Sovereign of all, he reigns unceasingly with you.

Of the Mother of God.

All creation rejoice, as you perceive the joy being born beyond hope from Anne and godly Joachim, which is called Grace, Mary the all-immaculate and pure Mother of God; whose fruit has become salvation for mankind, Christ, God who was ineffably incarnate from her.

At the Aposticha of Lauds, Prosomia.

Tone 2.

Come children of Adam, let us sing the praise of her who came of David’s line and gave birth to Christ, Mary the all-pure Virgin.

Let us offer praise to the Redeemer, the Lord who from a barren womb gave us the Mother of God and only ever-virgin.

Today the joy of the whole inhabited world, the Mother of my Lord, is born from a barren womb.

The foreordained Queen of all, God’s dwelling place, sacred enclosure of the eternal being, has come forth today from the barren womb of glorious Anne. Through her rash Hell has been trampled down and Eve the mother of all living dwells in unfailing life. As is fitting let us cry out to her: Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.

And the rest as usual, and Dismissal.

At Vespers

Of the Dedication. Tone 6.

Dedication is to be honoured, said the old law, and it did well; but the new should rather be honoured through dedication; for islands will be dedicated to God, as Isaias says, which are to be understood as the Churches from the nations, which have now been established and received a stability fixed on God; therefore let us too celebrate spiritually the festival of the present Dedication.

The same tone.

Be dedicated anew brethren! And putting off the old man, live in newness of life, placing a bridle on all those things from which death comes. Let us discipline all our members, hating every evil eating of the tree, and so only remembering the old that we may flee it. Thus is mankind renewed, thus the day of the Dedication is honoured.

The same tone. By Anatolios.

O Christ, you have set up a tower of strength, your Church; for you have established her on the rock of the faith, and so she remains for ever unshaken, for she has you, who for her sake in these last times without change became man; therefore with thanksgiving we hymn you, saying: You are He who is before the ages and for ever, and is yet our King. Glory to you!

Of the Saint. Tone 4.

Christ assented to your good deeds, admirable Cornelius, and to your godly entreaties and sent you a Holy Angel to lead you wholly to the light, and the Prince of the sacred Apostles to renew you, with all your household, by water and the Spirit and to initiate you into greater things by the Spirit's grace.

Clothed in the anointing of the priesthood you hastened to proclaim the proclamation of salvation to the nations, rooting out the thorns of error, O God-inspired, and by the Spirit planting in souls unerring teaching; and so we gladly call you blest, Cornelius, as an inspired High Priest and unconquered Martyr.

By following you ways of goodness the foolish were declared wise; dying by nature's law, wise Cornelius, and dwelling in a blest tomb you render it a source of many wonders, healing the weary and driving out the spirits of evil by the Holy Spirit, O God-inspired.

As we commemorate the Dedication we glorify you, the giver of hallowing, asking you to hallow the senses of our souls, at the intercession of your glorious Victors, O good and All-powerful.

Both now.

To-day a tree has been revealed; to-day the Hebrew race has been destroyed; to-day, through faithful Kings, the faith is revealed. Adam fell through the tree, but again through a tree demons trembled. Almighty Lord, glory to you!

Entrance, the Prokeimenon of the day and the Readings.

The Reading from the third book of Kingdoms.

Solomon stood before the face of the Lord, in front of the whole Assembly of Israel, and stretched out his hands to heaven and said: Lord God of Israel, there is no god like you in heaven above or on earth below. If the highest heaven is not adequate for you, how then this house which I have built in your name? Unless you, Lord, the God of Israel, look upon my supplication, to hear the supplication and the prayer which your servant makes before you this day, that your eyes be open towards this house, of which you have said that your name will be there; to hearken to the prayer which your servant prays at this place day and night. And may you hearken to the supplication of your servant and of your people Israel, whatever they may pray in this place, and may you hearken in the place of your habitation in heaven, and be gracious to them.

The Reading from Proverbs.

With wisdom God founded the earth; He prepared the heavens with understanding. With his knowledge the deeps were broken open and the clouds poured down dew. My son, keep my counsel and my thought, do not pour them away, that your soul may live and grace be around your neck; and there shall be health for your flesh and safety for your bones; that with confidence you may walk all your ways in peace, and your foot may not stumble. For if you sit down, you shall be unafraid; if you slumber, you shall have sweet sleep; you shall not fear alarm coming upon you, nor the assaults of the impious; for the Lord shall be over all your ways and shall support your feet, so that you are not snared. Do not hold back from doing good to the needy, whenever your hand is able to help. Do not say: Come back again sometime, and Tomorrow I shall give: when you are able, do good, for you do not know what the coming day will bring forth. Do not devise evils for your friend who lives near you and trusts you. Do not quarrel with someone needlessly, lest they devise some evil against you. Do not gain the reproaches of wicked men, nor covet their ways; for every transgressor is unclean before the Lord, he does not take his seat among the just. The Lord's curse is on the houses of the ungodly, but the dwellings of the just are blessed. The Lord opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.

The Reading from Proverbs.

Wisdom has built herself a house and set up seven pillars. She has slaughtered her beasts, mixed the wine in her mixing bowl and prepared her table. She has sent out her servants, inviting with a loud proclamation to her banquet saying: Whoever is foolish, let him turn in here to me, and to those lacking understanding she said: Come, eat my bread, drink the wine I have mixed for you. Abandon folly and you will live; seek sagacity that you may have life, and correct understanding with knowledge. He who reproves wicked men will receives from them dishonour; he who rebukes the impious will shame himself. For to the impious rebukes are bruises. Do not rebuke the wicked, lest they hate you: rebuke a wise man and he will love you. Give a wise man an opportunity, and he will become wiser; instruct a just man and he will continue to receive. The beginning of wisdom is fear of the Lord; and the counsel of saints, understanding; knowing the law is the mark of a right mind. For by this means you will live a long time, and years will be added to your life.

At the Aposticha, Stichera of the Cross. Tone 5.

Hail, life-bearing Cross, invincible trophy of true religion, door of Paradise, support of the faithful, wall of the Church. Through you corruption has vanished utterly and been destroyed, the power of death has been swallowed up and we raised from earth to heaven. Unconquerable weapon, opponent of demons, glory of Martyrs, true ornament of Ascetics, harbour of salvation, who give to the world his great mercy.

Hail, Cross of the Lord, through whom mankind has been freed from the curse, sign of true joy. By your exaltation, O all-honoured, you cast down the foes; help of our kings, mighty strength of the just, beauty of priests; sealed and delivering from evils; the rod of power, by whom we are shepherded; weapon of peace, whom Angels escort in fear; divine glory of Christ, who grants the world his great mercy.

Hail, guide of the blind, physician of the sick, resurrection of all the dead, who raise us who have fallen into corruption, O precious Cross. Through you corruption has been abolished and incorruption flowered, and we mortals have been made divine and the devil has been utterly cast down. To-day, as we see you raised up in the hands of High Priests, we exalt Him who was exalted in the midst of you, and we worship Him, as we draw richly from Him his great mercy.

As we celebrate the dedication of the all-sacred temple of your Resurrection, we glorify you, O Lord, who hallowed and perfected it by your perfect grace; you delight in the mystic and sacred rites that are performed in it by faithful men; you accept from the hands of your servants unbloody and immaculate sacrifices and in return you give to those who rightly offer them cleansing of sins and your great mercy.

A divine treasure hidden in earth, the Cross of the Giver of life was shown in the heavens to the devout King, displaying a spiritual warranty of victory over enemies. Happy in faith and love from the hands of God, he sped towards the height of contemplation with complete zeal and revealed it from the bosom of the earth for the redemption of the world and our salvation.

Apolytikion of the Dedication. Tone 4.

You have displayed the loveliness of the holy dwelling of your glory below, O Lord, as you have the beauty of the firmament above. Strengthen it for ever and ever and accept our supplications which are ceaselessly offered you in it, through the prayers of the Mother of God, the life and resurrection of all.

We bring you in intercession the life-giving Cross of your goodness, O Lord, which you have given to the unworthy. Save the Kings and your city, giving them peace through the Mother of God, O only lover of mankind.

At the Morning Office

After the 1st Psalter reading, Kathisma. Tone 4.

Christ has enlightened all things by his presence; he has renewed the world by his divine Spirit; souls are made new; for a house has been dedicated to the glory of the Lord, where too Christ our God makes new the hearts of the faithful for the salvation of mortals.

After the 2nd Psalter reading, Kathisma. To the same melody.

O faithful people, the festive day of the Dedication has come to Christ’s chosen flock, and urges us all to be made new and with shining face faithfully to sing from the depths of the heart songs to the Master as deliverer and him who makes us new.

Psalm 50, and the Canons.

Canon of the Forefeast, whose Acrostic is the Alphabet, excluding the Theotokia. By Germanos.

Ode 1. Tone 4. The Irmos.

Lord, born of a Virgin, drown I pray in the deep of dispassion the three parts of my soul; that by the mortification of the body, as on a timbrel, I may sing to you a song of victory.

Rejoice, O heaven, and earth be glad, the all-holy Cross comes forth, hallowing us by grace, as we greet it as source of hallowing and cause of deification for all.

All-holy Cross give us who faithfully worship you the power devoutly to tread the path to heaven, that having avoided the pits of our foes we may become sharers in divine glory.

Through you, all honoured Cross we have become friends of the Creator, with heart and soul we ever embrace you, as we see you set forth, and we are enlightened in mind as we glorify the Word, cause of all things.

Theotokion.

City of God, bright, honoured treasure of the king of all which held God, all spotless Mother of God, guard the inheritance which ever praises you and faithfully honours your offspring.

Canon of the Dedication. By Monk John.

Ode 1. Tone 4.

Christ, who of old led the chosen Israel by a column through the bath of baptism, on Sion you have planted the Church who cries: Let us sing a song to our God.

Today the visitation of your unapproachable glory has covered heaven, the temple which has been fixed for you on earth, in which we sing in harmony: Let us sing a song to our God.

Not by law is your Church beautified, O Lord, nor by the stretching out of servile hands, but proud in the grace of the Cross she sings to you: Let us sing a new song to our God.

Theotokion.

At the Father’s will, from the divine Spirit, you conceived without seed the Son of God, and you bore in the flesh him who came from the Father without mother and for our sakes from you without father.

Canon of the Saint, whose Acrostic is:

I sing the fame of your wonders, blessed Martyr. Joseph.

Ode 1. Tone 1.

High Priest, blessed by God, enlighten by your prayers those who celebrate this your light-bearing and godly falling asleep, your radiant memory and sacred festival.

Even before your perfect initiation, wise, all-blest Cornelius, you appeared by your alms and prayers to be devoted to the Lord of all and to seek him with uprightness of mind.

You learnt the saving laws of him who united to the flesh through his surpassing goodness, when the Prince of the Apostles initiated you into the wishes of the Master.

Theotokion.

You draw the hearts of the faithful to glorify you always, Sovereign Lady, Mother of God, with unceasing desire; for you are declared to be the glory of mortals, for you bore Lord of glory, O Immaculate.

Forefeast. Ode 3. The Irmos.

We do not boast in wisdom, power and wealth, but in you, O Christ, the empersonned Wisdom of the Father; for none is holy but you, O Lover of mankind.

O glorified Cross of the Lord, who bear the title of Christ’s glory, we glorify you in faith, glorified and enlightened by your holy embraces.

Advancing with joy, O Faithful, let us draw as from a pure fount everliving streams from the Cross, and saved let us hymn God.

Jesus, who is life, was hanged and died on the tree of the Cross, which we now embrace with faith and so flee the passions, the hosts to death.

Theotokion.

Appear and dispel the darkness of my soul, tear up the cords of sin, pure Virgin, save me, you who bore the All-merciful.

Of the Dedication.

You have sanctified your Church with the Spirit, O Christ, by anointing her with the oil of your gladness.

The Church, O Christ, which has you as her unshaken foundation, is today crowned with the Cross as with a kingly diadem.

O loving Lord, you have shown today that the tabernacle made with hands is, by your dispensation, the dwelling of your glory which is beyond understanding.

Theotokion.

You alone, O Mother of God, have become the agent of supernatural blessings for those on earth; therefore we offer you our ‘Hail!’.

Of the Saint.

You received the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit and with your whole house wholly accepted God’s grace from a godly mouth, when the godly Prince of the Apostles with care declared the saving teachings.

By your virtues you were exalted as a lofty cedar, and you offered us sweet-scented fruits: the wealth of your teachings, the grace of your wonders and the operation of your healings, blessed High Priest Cornelius.

Made worthy of the greatest renown, Cornelius, you hastened with the Prince of the Apostles and his companions and proclaimed everywhere the divine proclamation, through which we have been guided to the light and delivered from the darkness of ignorance.

Theotokion.

You have become a light-filled dwelling of purity, and you bear the giver of light made flesh, who appeared as a man for our sake through his love for mankind, and abolished corruption, O Incorrupt recalling of mortals.

Kathisma of the Dedication. Tone 8.

God displayed the Tent of witness, and Moses set it up on earth, and Solomon dedicated a temple with sacrifices; but we who have taken refuge in faith in the new Jerusalem, let us like David offer a divine song to him who was crucified for us, asking pardon for all in which we have sinned.

Kathisma of the Cross. Tone 4.

You have appeared today.

Your Cross, O Lord, shining like light dispels the forces of darkness; and makes bright the faithful who sing: The Cross is the boast of the world.

The Church from the nations received you as its holy first fruits and you enlightened her by your virtuous deeds, O inspired High Priest Cornelius.

With faith we shiningly celebrate the Dedication of your house, immaculate, blessed, pure, all-praised Virgin; glad in the hope we have in you, O Mother of God, we beg you to intercede ceaselessly with the Saviour, who was incarnate from you, to save our souls.

Forefeast. Ode 4. The Irmos.

Through love of your image, O Merciful, you were nailed to a Cross, and the nations melted away in fear; for you, O Lover of mankind, are my strength and my song.

Troparia

The Lord’s Cross, appearing like the sun, is worshipped by faithful men; as we greet it our souls are enlightened.

The Lord God incarnate has appeared, and, raised on the Tree, he enlightens every one who worships him, snatching them from disasters.

O Word of God, grant us pardon and forgiveness of offences, who in faith today worship your precious Cross, which is set forth.

Theotokion.

Without emptying his Father’s bosom the Word was laid as an infant in your bosom, O Maid, as he wished to refashion me, who am subject to corruption.

Of the Dedication.

The Church is sprinkled not with the slaughter of beasts, but with your precious which came from your lifebearing side, as she fittingly cries: Glory to your power, O Lord.

The tabernacles of the Lord, beloved of those who long to see the glory of your face unveiled, cry out in harmony: Glory to your power, O Lord.

In an image of the anointing of your chosen people, the most precious myron, the Church is anointed today as she receives invisibly the divine grace of the Spirit.

Theotokion.

Without wedlock you conceived, O Virgin, and after child-birth you appeared again a virgin; therefore with never silent voices and undoubting faith we cry; ‘Hail!’ to you, Sovereign lady.

Of the Saint.

Having received the grace of the Spirit, you came upon the earth like a radiant sun, all-praised Cornelius, scattering the darkness of the folly of idols.

Like a great river, Cornelius, you have flowed over all the surface of the earth, watering it by your divine teachings and drowning the weeds of polytheism.

Having become dead to all the world, all-blest Cornelius, you proclaimed the divine rising of him who died for our sakes to those dead through passions.

Theotokion.

Pure Virgin, above nature you have become the pure dwelling of the Father’s Wisdom; through whom we have now been delivered from the wickedness of the cunning one.

Forefeast. Ode 5. The Irmos.

Send down you illumination upon us, Lord, loose us from the fog of offences, and grant us your peace.

Strengthen against destructive passions, O precious Cross, us who honour you and greet you, holiest symbol of the holy Passion.

Made bright today in hearts and soul with forms of fair things, let us the faithful advance, and worship the honoured and precious wood of the Cross.

Moses once sweetened the waters of Mara, symbolising with wood you, O precious Cross, through which you let fall drops of sweetness upon mortals.

Theotokion.

O all-immaculate Virgin, intercede on our behalf with Christ, who clothed himself in material flesh from your pure blood and refashioned mortals.

Of the Dedication.

You of old on Sinai showed to Moses, who saw God, the tabernacle not made with hands, thus delineating, O Christ, your Church.

You, Lord, prepared a tabernacle upon earth; by your power you join the choirs of mortals with the ranks of heaven.

You, Lord, we know to be the fount of life; you, O Holy One, came and preached, O Christ, the gospel of peace to your Church.

Theotokion.

You, O Bride of God, we advance as an unbreakable defence against foes; you we have gained as the anchor and hope of our salvation.

Of the Saint.

Wholly dedicated to the Almighty, O High Priest, you did not ascribe honour to dumb wooden idols even when constrained by murderous men.

You called upon the unseen, most high God, Cornelius, with earnest entreaty, and greatly marvelled at, you cast down the temple of wooden abominations.

Keeping the command of the Almighty, wise Martyr, you were kept in prison and submitted to bonds; and being bound you destroyed the senseless followers of wicked faith.

Theotokion.

Bedew me, All-pure, with forgiveness of faults, visit me, who am weak and storm tossed by the troubles of life and the passions of the body.

Forefeast. Ode 6. The Irmos.

I have come to the depths of the sea, and a storm of many sins has drowned me; but as God lead my life back from corruption, as you love mankind.

As he hung on you, O Cross, the Creator was willingly pierced in the side and poured out blood and water, through which we who greet you with faith have been refashioned.

Life-endowed wood of the Cross, fount of immortality, redemption of the whole world, save us who greet you as our saving protection.

You have been given to us as an unbreakable weapon, through which we may overcome all the ambuscades of the adversaries, O divine Cross, we who reverently greet you in uprightness of soul.

Theotokion.

You were named the holy temple of him who rests in the Holy Place, O Mother of God; therefore you hallow us all who in faith hymn you, O Virgin-mother.

Of the Dedication.

Christ, the King, has now desired the beauty of the holy Church, and has shown her to the mother of the nations, adopted as sons from slavery through the Spirit.

The ranks of evil demons tremble before the Church of Christ, signed with mark of the Cross, and shaded by the hallowing brightness of the Spirit.

The Church from the nations, not with sand but with Christ as her foundation, is crowned with the unapproachable beauty, and adorned with the diadem of the Kingdom.

Theotokion.

O wonder, newer than all wonders! For a Virgin who has not known man has conceived in the womb him who controls all things, and has not been straitened.

Of the Saint.

As you purely made your prayers, you saw before you an Angel of God, who initiated you into the better things which hold salvation.

Illumined by the Spirit, High Priest Cornelius, you became a star blazing with light, bringing light by the blaze of your light to the ends of the earth.

Blest Martyr, of old darkened by error, you rejected it by your entreaty, acknowledged the Lord and your whole household received God’s cleansing.

Theotokion.

The Lord of glory was alone incarnate from your maiden blood, as he purposed to save us, O all-pure, by his goodness.

Kontakion of the Dedication. Tone 4.

You have appeared today.

The Church has been declared a heaven filled with light, which guides all the faithful to the light; standing in it we cry: Establish this house, O Lord.

The Ikos.

When the Word had come to dwell among us in the flesh, the offspring of the thunder wrote of him as follows: Radiantly we have seen in grace and truth the glory which the Son had with the Father. To as many of us as have received him in faith, he has given them all power to become children of God, who are born again, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, but brought to full growth of the Holy Spirit we have erected this house of prayer, and we cry out: Establish this house, O Lord.

Synaxarion

On the 13th of the same month, Commemoration of the Dedication of the holy [Church of the] Resurrection of our Christ and God.

Verses

New Israel fulfilling ancient law,

Honours your tomb, O Word, with dedication.

Sanctified on the thirteenth was the Temple of Christ’s Resurrection.

On the same day, Commemoration of the holy Centurion Cornelius.

Verses

Cornelius you lead from unbelief, O Christ,

The firstfruits of the faithful of the nations.

On the same day, Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Chronidis, Leontius, Serapion, Strato, Selefkos, Macrobius, Gordian, Zotikos, Eli, Lucianus and Valerian.

Our venerable father Peter of Agrea died in peace.

The venerable Hierotheos the New, the Georgian, who flourished in 1720, met his end in peace.

Through their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Forefeast. Ode 7. The Irmos.

Three youths in Babylon held the tyrant’s command as idle chatter, and in the midst of the fire they cried aloud: Blessed are you, the God of our fathers.

Jacob of old in blessing the children, foreshadowed you, O precious Cross; but we who now worship you, ever draw illumination.

Godly Moses with a rod prefigured you of old, O Cross, when he divided the sea; but we who now worship you, pass dryshod through the rough sea of passions.

As with heart and mouth we now embrace you, all-honoured Cross, we ever draw hallowing, health and salvation of soul and body.

Theotokion.

O blessed Virgin, intercede for us who implore you; for in you we all hope and to you we cry out: Sovereign Lady, do not neglect your flock!

Of the Dedication.

The flame of the furnace once became wet as dew; but now from oil a spiritual anointing hallows those who cry: Blessed are you in the temple of your glory, O Lord.

As in the furnace, the new tabernacle which receives God, all we the faithful of the spiritual Israel, fresh with dew, let us cry out: Blessed are you in the temple of your glory, O Lord.

Wounded by the sweetest divine love, let us all in this divine bridal chamber be joined with Christ the Bridegroom, as we cry out: Blessed are you, the Lord of glory.

Theotokion.

Hail, hallowed, godly tabernacle of the Most High, for through you, Mother of God, joy has been given to all who cry: Blessed are you among women, All-spotless.

Of the Saint.

You have become the first fruit of the nations, Cornelius, for you were the first to receive holy baptism and the grace of the Spirit, as before you the inspired Apostles.

Mighty wonders you performed by God’s grace; you caught for the faith those who before thought wrongly and taught them to sing: O God, blessed are you.

Hidden in the earth and covered by a bush, by your godly precepts, wise Martyr, you have been manifested, pouring out the grace of wonders and dispelling diseases.

You have been shown, Cornelius, to be a harp sweetly singing saving teachings, and delighting the souls of all, as you sing: O God, blessed are you.

Of the Trinity.

Let us all glorify the three-personned Trinity, the Father ever without beginning, the consubstantial Son and the Spirit, as we sing: O God, blessed are you.

Theotokion.

All-spotless Virgin, you appeared making human matter divine by your divine birth-giving; therefore, as is right, we faithful glorify you.

Forefeast. Ode 8. The Irmos.

Almighty Redeemer of the universe, in your condescension you bedewed the devout Youths in the midst of the flame, and taught them to sing: All you his works, bless, praise the Lord.

We now worship the saving and unbreakable weapon, the ready help and mighty aid of the faithful, the Cross of the Lord, which is set out before us.

High on a tree Moses raised the serpent, as it is written, depicting you in advance, O honoured Tree, through which we are delivered from the harm of spiritual serpents.

Life-giving, honoured Cross, you have become the illumination of our souls; for by embracing you we rout with your divine power the principalities and authorities of darkness.

Theotokion.

Let us honour the pure Virgin, who bore in a manner beyond nature the Word without beginning and uncreated for our salvation, as we cry aloud: We bless, O Virgin, your offspring.

Of the Dedication.

Today, O Lord, like a bride your Church has been clothed in a spiritual robe woven from above from divine grace and calls together her own peoples to rejoice, to sing: All you works praise the Lord.

Today Christ, the second Adam, has displayed a spiritual Paradise, this new tabernacle which contains as opposed to the tree of knowledge the lifebearing weapon of the Cross for those who sing: All you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.

Of the Trinity.

As we honour you, the Son from the Father without beginning and the Holy Spirit, one Godhead, perfect, without beginning, undivided, consubstantial, unconfused in three persons, we sing: All you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.

Theotokion.

You alone in all generations, O Virgin, have been shown as Mother of God; you became, all-spotless one, the dwelling of the Godhead, unconsumed by the fire of the unapproachable light; therefore we all bless you, Mary, Bride of God.

Of the Saint.

With uprightness of mind you sought with all your soul only the God who had appeared upon earth; therefore, inspired Martyr, you became the precious first fruits of the nations and the vessel of the Spirit.

With the coal of your words of fire, blest Martyr, you burnt up the matter of folly; therefore you have passed over to the light that knows no evening and shed your rays on all those who hymn you with love.

Lot and part, and helper and deliverer, strength and song and light has he become for you, the Word who calls all things out of non-existence, and your guidance, inspired Cornelius.

Of the Trinity.

Holy Father, holy Word, Spirit, all-holy, uncreated, undivided Trinity, save those who hymn with love your might, your kingdom and your greatness.

Theotokion.

Shower your mercies upon us, as is your wont, pure Maiden, and ask pardon of all the faults that have come upon us in knowledge and ignorance through our heedlessness.

Forefeast. Ode 9. The Irmos.

Your child-bearing was declared to be without corruption; God came from womb bearing flesh. he appeared on earth and dwelt among Of the Trinity.

Holy Father, holy Word, Spirit, all-holy, uncreated, undivided Trinity, save those who hymn with love your might, your kingdom and your greatness.

Theotokion.

Shower your mercies upon us, as is your wont, pure Maiden, and ask pardon of all the faults that have come upon us in knowledge and ignorance through our heedlessness.

Forefeast. Ode 9. The Irmos.

Your child-bearing was declared to be without corruption; God came from womb bearing flesh. he appeared on earth and dwelt among men; therefore, Mother of God, we magnify you.

Hung upon you, O Cross of the Lord, Christ truly raised the world fallen into the pit of destruction; therefore with longing we now worship, honour and glorify you.

Let us purify our souls and hearts with enduring works of good deeds, and seeing the saving wood of the Cross set forth in the midst, let us with godly thoughts worship it with faith and longing.

Like a great sun with your rays you shine on those in darkness, and scorch the demons, O fairest Cross; therefore enlighten all who worship you in faith.

Theotokion.

Shine on me with the divine light, O Virgin, dwelling place of light, driving away the darkness of my passions and the truly deepest night of pleasures, O all-holy Mother of God.

Of the Dedication.

Come and contemplating with pure heart and sober spiritual eyes the loveliness of the Church, the King’s daughter, which shines brighter tan gold, let us magnify her.

Rejoice and be glad, bride of the great King, as clearly reflecting the beauty of your bridegroom, you cry with your people: O Giver of life, we magnify you.

Grant your Church, O Saviour, the defence from on high; for she knows no other but you, who laid down your life for her of old, as with recognition she magnifies you.

Theotokion.

Hail full of grace, bride of the great King; through we have all been delivered from the curse of Eve, O pure one, and have found life in your child-bearing, bride without bridegroom.

Of the Saint.

The whole Church celebrates a sacred festival in your honoured memory, herald of Christ, for you appeared of equal rank with the Holy Disciples, for like them you inherited the Holy Spirit.

As a priest you were adorned with the doctrines of true religion; you became like the divine ministers of God; but, blest and most holy, you are ever a source of streams of healing, as you bring the diseases of men to an end.

Robed in a garment of salvation, which Christ wove by being incarnate, you now in joy traverse the kingdom above and see clearly the inconceivable beauty of the Bridegroom, admirable Martyr.

Your precious grave, like a spring, pours out healing for the faithful in abundance, Cornelius, it frightens away the evil spirits and gives light to the eyes of all those who praise you with faith.

Theotokion.

Most-pure Sovereign Lady, protection that cannot be shamed, who gave birth to the light which shone forth from the light, ask enlightenment for me and scatter far from me the darkness of temptations and pleasures.

Exapostilarion.

Willingly raised on the Cross on Golgotha, the Lord has worked our salvation and renewed all creation; he was placed in a life-receiving grave and arose, as God, on the third day, the dedication of whose bright and holy rising we all celebrate with the ranks of the bodiless powers.

Another. To the same melody.

The Lord and God, willingly incarnate has worked salvation through the Cross in the midst of the earth for the renewal of the world; laid in a grave, he rose on the third day, and as an earnest of life, he shows forth his rising, whose dedication we celebrate in faith with the Angels of God.

Theotokion. To the same melody.

With gladness we cry ‘Hail’ to you, O Virgin; hail Adam’s redemption and Eve’s; hail through whom mortal nature has been exalted to the glory beyond the world of your Son and God; hail through whom he is ever worshipped in heaven by Angels, O all-praised Mary, Mother of God.

At Lauds we insert 6 Verses

and we sing the following Prosomia. Tone 4.

Today the divine, sacred, honoured and light-bearing house of the resurrection of Christ is shiningly dedicated; and the divine tomb distributes life to the world and furnishes an immortal fount; it gushes forth streams of grace; bursts forth rivers of wonders; grants healings to those who hymn it with faith.

The brilliant, shining beam has blazed from on high and enlightens all things; faithfully then let us all honour the Resurrection of Christ the Creator, and let us feast with hymns and celebrate with psalms the life-bearing divine festival of the sacred Dedication, that we find the Saviour and Lord full of mercy.

Bidden to contemplate the holy sceptre of the Cross exalted in the midst of the earth, let us purify our souls, make our minds shine, let us be made bright with light, and gleaming with divine power let us hymn Christ, who grants hallowing through the honoured wood to those who honour him in faith and devoutly sing him.

Other Idiomel Verses. Tone 1. By Monk John.

Be renewed, be dedicated, O new Jerusalem; for the glory and light of the Lord have risen upon you. For the Father has built this house; the Son has established this house; the Holy Spirit has renewed this house, the Spirit which enlightens and strengthens and hallows our souls.

The same tone. By Anatolios.

Of old when Solomon dedicated the temple he offered you, Lord, sacrifices and holocausts of irrational beasts; but when you were well-pleased, O Saviour, to put an end to types and to make known the truth, he offers to your glory unbloody sacrifices, the ends of the world; for you are Master of all things and you hallow all things by the Holy Spirit.

Tone 4. By Monk John.

Today the Church from the nations is dedicated by the precious and life-flowing blood from the pure and immaculate side of him who took flesh from the Holy Virgin, Christ our God; therefore let the assembled choirs of us the faithful glorify the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, the one Godhead which governs the whole universe.

Come back to yourself, O mortal; become new instead of old; feast the rededication of your soul. Now is the time: let your way of life be renewed. The ancient things have passed away; lo, all things have become new. Bear this fruit for the feast: making the change to a fair change. In this way is mankind renewed, in this way the day of Dedication honoured.

Christ, our God, you accepted your voluntary crucifixion for the general resurrection of the human race, and by the reed of the Cross you stained your own fingers with streams of scarlet dye, in your love for mankind signing our remission like a king. Do not despise us in our danger, nor our repeated separation from you; but take pity, O only long-suffering, on your people in distress; and arise, make war on those who war against us, as you alone are all-powerful.

Great Doxology, and Dismissal.

At Vespers

Strange you appear to me in aspect and manner, strange too in words and tidings, answered Zachary. For I have come to ask salvation for the people, not to gain a child, as you announce. I find you quite the converse of my requests and I suspect that you may not speak the truth; for how will what you say be confirmed? The members of Elizabeth are deadened, and my own old age now counsels disbelief.

Why do you not believe my words, Zachary, saying that I bring good tidings that are false? I am God’s Archangel. The things that I have been ordered to, these I now tell as I stand here with you. But since you have doubted and have not believed, you will be dumb and without speech, until you see the divine outcome of my words. But when Elizabeth bears you a child, the voice of the Word, the great Forerunner, your tongue will be clear and you will bless the God of Israel.

Today from a barren womb the fruit of prayer has sprouted, John the Forerunner. Wilderness rejoice, humanity dance; the herald of repentance begins to take flesh in his mother’s womb. Come rejoicing in his glorious conception, lovers of feasts, let us dance as we cry out: You are the greatest of those born of women; do not cease to intercede for those who with faith honour your divine conception, that we may find atonement for sins and God’s great mercy.

Who will not call you blessed, All-holy Virgin? Who will not sing the praise of your child-birth without labour? For the only-begotten Son, who shone from the Father beyond time, came forth from you, pure Maiden, ineffably incarnate. By nature he is God, by nature he became man for our sake, not divided in a duality of persons, but known without confusion in a duality of natures. O honoured and all-blessed, implore him to have mercy on our souls.

At the Aposticha, Prosomia. Tone 6. Having laid aside.

As the holy priest and Prophet, went in holiness to the Holy of Holies, a holy Angel stood by him, as it is written, and addressed him saying: Your prayer has been heard, and now Elizabeth’s barrenness is being abolished, and she will give birth for you, old man, to a son, John the Forerunner, lamp of Elias, Prophet of the Most High and voice of the Word who dawned from a Virgin, Child of God.

Tell me quite plainly, how shall I know this? the most blessed elder answered the Angel. For, as you see, I am full of years; Elizabeth is barren. How then do you utter words to me beyond nature? I am amazed. Now I suspect that you are not speaking the truth at all, my friend. Away with you, for I am beseeching the salvation of the people, not to obtain a child, a thing hard to admit.

I am a Archangel of God Almighty, my name is Gabriel, said the Bodiless One to the old man. Now be dumb and practise silence, for you have not believed my words. But when your wife bears you a the trumpet of the Word the Spirit will instruct your tongue and you will cry out most clearly: You, child, will be called Prophet of the Most High, by grace to prepare beforehand his paths, as he has been well pleased.

An Angel you came forth from barren loins, O Baptist, from your swaddling bands you dwelt in the wilderness and were declared seal of all the Prophets, for you were counted worthy to baptize in Jordan the One whom they had contemplated in divers manners and proclaimed beforehand in riddles. And you heard the voice of the Father from heaven bearing witness to his sonship; and you saw the Spirit in the form of a dove drawing down the voice upon the One baptized. But, O higher than all the Prophets, do not cease to intercede for us who celebrate with faith your memorial.

Mother of God, you are the true vine who gave bud to the fruit of life; we implore you, Sovereign Lady, with the Forerunner and all the Saints, that God may have mercy on our souls.

Apolytikion. Tone 4. Speedily anticipate.

Be glad, O barren one, who before did not bear child, for see, you have conceived for the sun a lamp that is about to enlighten the whole inhabited world, sick with blindness. Dance Zachary, cry aloud with boldness: The one to be born is Prophet of the Most High!

Theotokion.

The mystery hidden from all eternity and unknown to Angels, has been revealed to those on earth through you, O Mother of God: God being made flesh in a union without confusion, and willingly accepting the Cross for us, through which he raised the first-formed man and saved our souls from death.

At Matins

After the 1st Reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Tone 5. Let us believers praise.

Elizabeth was freed from barrenness, while the Virgin remained still a virgin, when at Gabriel’s voice each of them conceived in the womb; but the Forerunner John leapt in the womb when he recognized beforehand his God and Master incarnate in a virgin womb for our salvation

Hail holy mountain on which God has walked; hail living bush and unconsumed by fire; hail the world’s only bridge to God, who lead mortals over to eternal life; hail Maiden undefiled, who bore without wedlock the salvation of our souls.

After the 2nd Reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Tone 4. Speedily anticipate.

The desert-loving dove, the sacred Baptist, who preached repentance and revealed Christ become man, has been born, a patron for all who sin, unfailingly helping all who are storm-tossed. At his entreaties, O Christ, save your world.

You alone bore the Maker of the universe, you alone adorned humanity by your child-bearing, O Immaculate. Deliver me from the snares of crafty Beliar, stand me on the rock of Christ’s wishes, as you insistently entreat him to whom you gave a body.

The Canons, one from the Oktoichos and one of the Saint.

A composition of John of Damascus.

If you wish say also the Katavasias:

I will open my mouth.

Ode 1. Tone 6. As on dry land.

Shoot of a barren woman, pluck from my barren soul my fruitless thoughts as I begin to praise your Conception in a barren womb.

When he entered the temple sacred Zachary saw a divine Angel who clearly revealed to him: Priest, you will have a son in great old age, the Forerunner.

The brilliant lamp of the glory of Elias, the great Forerunner, begins to shine in his mother’s womb. Through him the darkness of passions and the bonds of sterility have been loosed.

Theotokion.

Seeing the Master being carried in your womb, all-pure Mother of God, John, as his Forerunner, clearly leapt for joy in his mother’s womb.

Ode 3. None is holy.

The barren woman today conceives a sacred fruit, which afterwards is going by grace to cut out with the spiritual axe all fruitlessness of souls.

Struck dumb within the temple, great Zachary by a fearful message acquires the voice of the Word, and radiantly magnifies the compassionate Lord.

The glorious Forerunner, who showed to all the safe path of repentance, sprouts in his mother’s womb at the behest of the Angel by divine counsel and beyond hope.

Theotokion.

As he recognised Christ being carried in the womb of the Virgin, the issue of a barren woman leapt, foretelling the joy that had come to dwell on earth to ransom all from despair.

The Irmos.

’None is holy but you, O Lord my God, who exalt the horn of your faithful, O Good One, and establish us on the rock of your confession.’

Kathisma. Tone 4. Joseph was amazed.

To Zachary the priest, as he offered incense in the temple, Gabriel appeared from heaven and said to him: In old age you will have a glorious fruit, and Elizabeth’s former barrenness and infertile lack of offspring will be at once unloosed, and she will conceive and bear the herald and Forerunner of Jesus. At their intercessions, Saviour of the world, save our souls.

Joseph was amazed as he contemplated what was beyond nature, and at your conceiving without seed, Mother of God, he called to mind the shower on the fleece, the bush unburned by fire, Aaron’s rod that blossomed. And your betrothed and guardian bore witness and cried to the priests: A Virgin bears a child and after childbirth remains still a Virgin.

Ode 4. Christ my power.

The voice of an Angel sacredly announced beforehand to the priest that you would spring from a barren womb as truly the messenger of Christ’s coming, blest Forerunner.

Before you were childless and did not give birth, now rejoice, O barren one, because full of all praise you will bear fruit, Christ’s Baptist and Forerunner, wondrous Elizabeth

With the axe of your supplication, O Forerunner, pluck out the thorns of my passions and the stumbling blocks of my thoughts, and make my mind fruitful with virtues, O all-blessed.

Theotokion.

The womb of the Virgin was carrying you who carry the universe, when the Baptist, being carried in the womb, worshipped you, O Christ, and leaped rejoicing.

Ode 5. By your divine light.

To the Prophet, as he was entering the Sanctuary and offering the service according to the law to the Maker, a holy Angel appeared, announcing the divine conception of the Forerunner.

How will this be to me more clearly? For I an old man, as you see, and I have a barren wife, said Zachary to the Archangel, the words you speak to me are contrary to nature.

Look to Abraham’s Sara; see how she gave birth to Isaac in old age, my friend, and fittingly believe what is said, the great Angel answered the old man.

Theotokion.

Blessed are you among women, O full of God’s grace, Elizabeth cried out to you, because I know that you bear in your womb without man and alone remain incorrupt after childbirth.

Ode 6. As I watch the sea of life.

My mind is full of doubt and I do not believe your words, the priest said to the Archangel; for I asked salvation for the people, not fruit from my loins.

The Fashioner of nature, King of the Angels, replied the minister, has been well-pleased for you to beget the Messenger of his coming; do not disbelieve my words, my friend.

Your form is of fire, your appearance terrifying and your word wondrous, said Zachary to the minister; but yet I do not believe you as you speak strange words beyond nature.

Theotokion.

The lamp, recognizing the Sun hidden in the cloud of his mother’s womb, himself in the sombre dwelling of the womb, rejoicing worshipped him and leapt for joy.

The Irmos.

’As I watch the sea of life rising with the storm of temptations, I hasten to your fair haven and cry out to you: Bring my life up from corruption, O most merciful’

Kontakion. Tone 1. The angelic Choir.

Great Zachary with far-famed Elizabeth his wife is radiantly glad, for worthily she conceives John the Forerunner, of whom an Archangel brought the good tidings rejoicing, and whom we humans fittingly honour as an initiate of grace.

The Ikos.

Let us open the sacred Gospel, which holy and wondrous Luke wrote for us, and let us contemplate the radiant and notable conception of the Forerunner. For, he says, when the Elder and righteous Zachary entered the Holy of Holies to offer incense at the moment of the daily service, Gabriel appeared to him brining good tidings and saying: You have a son, Hierarch, in your old age, the Prophet and Forerunner, voice and herald, ever-lighted lamp and initiate of grace.

Synaxarion

On the 23rd of the same month, the Conception of the holy and glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John.

Verses

Archangel’s message to a Prophet was:

Prophet you will beget and more than that.

The godlike Chief Captain Gabriel brought the good tidings of this divine conception to the prophet and priest Zachary. ’Your supplication has been heard’ he said; so from this he foretold, by reason of the marvel of the old age and barrenness of Elizabeth, the divine and virginal child-bearing of the immaculate Mother of God.

On the same day, Commemoration of the holy Martyrs Andrew, John, Peter and Antony, who attained perfection in Africa.

Verses

For the Word’s sake, of old pierced with one lance,

Andrew endured being pierced by lances twain.

Error John made his foe and being slain

Slaughtered the foe and with him error too.

Stoutly endured their rending limb from limb.

On the same day, Commemoration of the holy Virgin Martyr Raпs.

Verses

Longing to see God’s beauty Raпs gave

The beauty of her flesh up to the sword.

On the same day, Commemoration of the Venerable women Xanthippe and Polyxena, sisters by blood.

Verses

To be their fellows Angel choirs now take

Xanthippe and Polyxena her kin.

On the same day the holy new martyr Nicolas the grocer, who was martyred in Constantinople in 1672 and died by the sword.

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Ode 7. The Angel made the furnace like dew.

As you have not believed my words receive dumbness for all to see; and when you see the voice of the Word being brought to birth, receive your voice again, crying out: Blessed are you, the God of Israel.

United to the moon, Elizabeth, Zachary, shining brightly like the sun, begot the resplendent lamp of the light which shines for us who are dreadfully held fast in the darkness of the passions.

Using his leapings as words, Christ’s great Prophet worshipped you in the Virgin’s womb, carried himself in Elizabeth’s womb, O Jesu, God of our Fathers.

Theotokion.

The moon, Elizabeth, carrying within her a divine star, the Forerunner, worshipped Mary, the cloud of light, who bore the Sun, Christ, incarnate of you to save us.

Ode 8. You poured dew from the flame.

The friend of the Bridegroom is being made ready, the voice of the Word begins to be, and is nourished by barren loins, he the great soldier of the universal King.

A husbandman has flowered for barren hearts, the axe of the passions is already being forged, the august calf is being fattened by self-mastery, the great Forerunner. Peoples rejoice.

As of old you loosed the bonds of sterility, O Baptist, so loose the stiffness of my mind and make me sprout with fruits of repentance and live to the ages.

Irmos.

’You poured dew from the flame for the Holy Youths and the Just Prophet’s sacrifice you burned up with water, for you do all things, O Christ, by your will alone. We highly exalt you to all the ages.’

Ode 9. No human can see God.

The great and godlike Forerunner of Christ, having now opened the sterile gates, dwells in his mother’s womb as in a palace. Like a soldier he will come forth ahead of the universal King to prepare his ways.

Prophet of God, old man, dance, you will have a son, than whom no greater among mortals has arisen, John the Lord’s Forerunner. Elizabeth, leap for joy; all the earth be glad as you bring your praise to God the Maker of all things.

As we sing your praise with faith, now remember us, Prophet and Forerunner of the Lord, rescuing us from passions of the soul, saving us from dangers and in a manner fitting God guiding us to heaven’s path, O ever-blessed.

Theotokion.

Elizabeth recognised you, pure Mother, when she perceived that she herself had been loosed from sterile bonds, and that she was carrying in her womb the Forerunner of the One who made his dwelling in your womb, O immaculate Virgin, Mary full of God’s grace.

’It is impossible for humans to see God, on whom the ranks of Angels dare not gaze. But through you, All-pure one, the incarnate Word has been seen by mortals. As we magnify Him, with the heavenly armies we call you blessed.’

Exapostilarion. With the Disciples let us go.

The glorious conception of the Forerunner foretells the King who is to be born of a Virgin, as he from the fruitless and barren Elizabeth and the old man and priest, the famous Zachary. At their prayers and those of the Mother of God and John your Baptist, Lord, save and take pity on us all.

Theotokion. Same melody.

With one accord, O all-pure, we who have been redeemed from the ancient curse through your divine child-bearing, cry out to you the ’Hail’ of the august Archangel: Hail, redemption of Adam, Virgin Mother of God. Hail, honoured one, through whom we have been delivered from death. Hail, through whom we have found the kingdom of heaven.

At Lauds, Prosomia.

Tone 1. Joy of the heavenly hosts.

The Angel, having found as a wondrous testimony the conception by the barren woman, brings it to Mary, offering it as confirmation. And so let us also sing the praise of Elizabeth, once childless, and Zachary her spouse and John.

The lamp prepared by God of the eternal light, the friend of the Bridegroom, the great Morning Star of the Sun of glory, the living voice of God the Word, the Forerunner of the coming of the Lord is now conceived at the message of an Angel.

Elizabeth conceived the Forerunner of grace, the Virgin the Lord of glory. The mothers greeted one another and the infant leapt for joy. For within the slave was praising the Master. Marvelling the mother of the Forerunner began to cry aloud: Whence is this to me, that the Mother of my Lord should come to me? That he, who alone has great mercy, may save a people in despair.

Great Doxology and Dismissal.

At the Liturgy, Typika and from the 3rd and 6th Odes of the Canon etc.

Communion.

The just will be held in eternal memory.

At Vespers

Tone 8.

Lord, though at the window Thekla was transfixed by your love, yet standing in spirit by your throne in the highest she was amazed at your incomparable beauty, who took flesh in your love for mankind that you might save our souls.

Lord, though to the Apostle in bondage Thekla hastened, yet she shook off the bond of striving for earthly things; and captured by the might of your love she was bound steadfast to you, the Saviour of our souls.

Lord, though from her teacher Thekla was not willingly isolated, yet she had you present with her at the moment of the contest; and stripped naked of her robe she was covered by your glory, and crowned at your hands she shields our souls.

Lord, though to the fire your chaste Protomartyr was condemned, yet she was not consumed by it, for she had obtained you as gentle moisture, and she remained unharmed among many wild beasts, guarded by your hand, O Saviour of our souls.

By Anatolios. Some say Andrew of Jerusalem.

All-blessed Thekla, companion of Paul and fellow-athlete of Stephen, by your athletic struggles you trampled down the foe, and as a martyr having smashed his devices, you escaped Thamyris and were wedded to Christ, the true lover. Protomartyr of Christ among women, as you have boldness, rescue from dangers the souls of us who faithfully celebrate your memory.

You are my sure refuge, my hope and protection, chaste Virgin-mother; make haste then with speed and deliver me from the ills which beset me on every side.

Or Cross-Theotokion.

When she saw you crucified, O Christ, she who bore you lamented and cried out as a mother: My Son and my God, my sweetest child, how do you bear shameful suffering?

Aposticha. Tone 1.

Far-famed Protomartyr and Equal of the Apostles, glory of women martyrs, fair virgin Thekla, by your supplications that are powerful with God heal the dread passions and bruises of my soul, I cry to you, and snatch me from the unquenchable fire.

The almighty, divine power of Christ through a cloud that gave birth to rain quenched the flame, bedewing you, Thekla, as a believer and justly consuming unbelievers and, delivering you from being torn apart by wild beasts and bulls, it glorified you.

Filled with longing for the immaculate Bridegroom, all-fair in his beauty, you denied your suitor, Thekla, following the words of Paul, the groomsman of the Church. Raised up with him to the sphere of all-delight, you were betrothed to the One for whom you longed.

You trampled down the assaults of lions, and shaming Thamaris you followed your Bridegroom, Protomartyr and Apostle, as you cried out: I have run in the fragrance of your myrrh, O Christ. And so, hastening after Paul, you received the gift of grace from heaven and inherited the garland of victory from God, judge of the contest, and you intercede without ceasing that he bestow pardon of offences on those who celebrate with faith your sacred memorial.

My hope and my protector, fervent assistance and my refuge, you are the salvation of the faithful, all-immaculate, pure Lady; therefore I also flee to you, crying out and shouting to you: I have sinned. Save me, O Maiden, save me as alone truly the surety of those who sin.

Or Cross-Theotokion.

I cannot bear to see you, my Child, who give awakening to all, sleeping in death upon a tree, so that to those who of old through the transgression of the fruit fell into destroying slumber you may grant divine and saving awakening, cried the grieving Virgin, whom we magnify.

Apolytikion. Tone 4.

O Jesu, your lamb cries aloud: O my Bridegroom, I long for you; and seeking you I struggle, and I am crucified and buried with you in your baptism; and I suffer for your sake, that I may reign with you; and I die for you, that I may live in you; but as a spotless victim now accept one who with longing is slain for you. Through her prayers, as you are merciful, save our souls!

At Matins

The normal Reading from the Psalter and the Canons of the Oktoichos [to 8], and of the Saint [to 6], of which the Acrostic, without the Theotokia is:

First woman Martys is glorified.

A Composition by Monk John.

Ode 1. Tone 8. Let us sing to the Lord.

Theotokion.

All-immaculate Mother of God, who bore beyond nature the eternal and divine Word incarnate, we hymn you.

Ode 3. You are the foundation.

Theotokion.

By your intercessions, O All-pure, give us help, driving off the assaults of dread misfortunes.

The Irmos.

You are the foundation, Lord, of those who have recourse to you. you are the light of those in darkness, and my spirit sings your praise.

Kathisma. Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

With longing for Christ through virtues you changed woman’s weakness to manly courage, and became through both the dwelling place of God: for you curtailed the darkness of the passions by an ascetic life, and as a martyr you became the boast of the contest; therefore you also shine as a beacon for the world, doubly flashing forth the beams of the Spirit. All-praised Protomartyr, intercede with Christ God that forgiveness of offences may be given to those who celebrate with love your holy memory.

Glory. Both now. Theotokion. The same melody.

As Virgin and the one who alone among women bore God in the flesh without seed all generations of mankind call you blessed; for the fire of the Godhead dwelt in you and you suckled as a babe the Creator and Lord; therefore we, the race of Angels and of men, fittingly glorify your all-holy Offspring, and in consort cry to you: Intercede with your Son and God that forgiveness of offences may be bestowed on those who celebrate with love your holy memory.

Or Cross-Theotokion.

When she saw the Lamb and Shepherd and Redeemer on the Cross, with tears the Ewe-lamb lamented and bitterly cried out: The world rejoices, for it receives redemption, but my inmost being burns as I see your crucifixion, which you endure through your compassionate mercy. O long-suffering Lord, the depth of mercy and the well of goodness, be merciful, then, and bestow forgiveness of sins on your servants who hymn in faith your immaculate passion.

Ode 4. I heard, Lord.

Theotokion.

As you are sinless, grant us pardon of our follies, O God, and give peace to the world at the intercessions of her who gave birth to you .

Ode 5. Rising at dawn we cry to you.

Theotokion.

We sing your praise as Virgin after childbirth, Mother of God; for you bore for the world God the Word in the flesh.

Ode 6. I pour out my entreaty.

Theotokion.

All-holy Virgin Mother of God, do not cease to intercede for us, for you are the support of the faithful, and we are strengthened by your hope, and with longing we glorify you and the One who ineffably took flesh from you.

The Irmos.

I pour out my entreaty to the Lord and I shall declare to him all my troubles, for my life has been filled with evils and my soul has come near to Hades; and like Jonas I beg: Lead me up from corruption, O God.

Kontakion. Tone 8.

You shone out with the beauty of virginity, you were adorned with a crown of martyrdom, you were entrusted with the work of an apostle, glorious Virgin; and you changed the fire’s flame to dew, while by prayer you tamed the raging of the bull as victorious first Champion.

The Ikos.

The brilliance of an honoured feast brightly outshines the sun; for blazing with beams of light it is mirrored in the eyes of the faithful; therefore as we dance with the Angels, let us all shout aloud to God our Saviour, as we cry to him: You have multiplied your mercies, O Saviour, by giving a perfect gift to your people: the victorious first Champion.

Synaxarion.

On the 24th of the same month, Commemoration of the Holy Great Martyr and Equal of the Apostles Thekla.

Verses.

He saved you, Thekla, when he rent the rock,

He at whose passion once the rocks were rent.

‘Twas on the twenty fourth day that a rock enfolded great Thekla.

She was from the city of Iconium; her mother was Theokleia of a noble and famous family. She was instructed in the word of the faith by the great Apostle Paul, when he was teaching in the house of Onesiphoros. When she came to the faith she was eighteen years old and betrothed to one Thamyris. Despising the fire into which she was cast, and her mother and her suitor, she followed Paul. After this, when at Antioch, she was condemned to the beasts by Alexander and cast to the bulls to be torn apart; but Christ delivered her from them all by his grace. She preached the Lord Jesus Christ in different cities and brought many people to faith in Christ, finally she came to her own fatherland. There she lived on one of the mountains and left this life, a rock opening up and receiving her. The whole span of her life was ninety years.

On the same day, Commemoration of our venerable Father Copris.

Verses.

Of grapes that brought fair blossom to the Lord.

He was born on a dung heap outside the monastery of the great Theodosios, the Koinoviarch, of a woman who was being pursued by the Hagarenes with a large number of others of the neighbourhood, who fled to the Saint for safety. After the passage of the infidels the monks found the new born child on the dung-heap and, on the order of the great Theodosios, they adopted him and named him Copris; he was nurtured on the milk of a goat. When it reckoned that the time had come to suckle the child it would come down of its own from the mountain, and after it had suckled him, it returned again. This it did until the child was strong enough for stronger food.

When he had thus reached maturity he was well-loved by the great Theodosios; and so he was worthy of the Holy Spirit, and having kept intact that which is according to the image, he made wild beasts subject to him; for once finding a she-bear in the garden eating the lettuces, he took it by the ear, and kept safe by the prayer of the great saint led it outside. On another occasion he was going up the mountain with the donkey to collect wood, as he used to do the collecting, when a she bear appeared and struck the beast in the thigh. Copris seized the bear and loaded the wood onto it with the words: ‘I’m not letting you go; for you’ll do the donkey’s service until it gets well’. And by the prayer of the great saint the bear was subject to him, and carried the wood. Once when he was on duty in the kitchen the brass cauldron was boiling over and the lentils were spilling out. Unable easily to find the usual stick of wood, he plunged in his bare hand and stopped the boiling, and remained unharmed.

When he was ninety years old he shone among those Fathers like the sun, adorned with priesthood and with every kind of virtue, and standing in a secret spot he would offer prayers to the Lord, so that the great Theodosios, after his departure to the Lord, also appeared going with him and chanting with him, and finally he said to him: ‘See, brother Copris, the time for your release has arrived; come to us in the place of rest that has been prepared for you’. When the admirable saint heard this, a few days later he grew weak, and having greeted the Holy Fathers he departed in peace to the Lord.

Commemoration of the miracle that took place through the Mother of God on the island of Cythera, where the icon of the Mother of God found in the myrtles cured a paralytic.

At their holy intercessions, O God have mercy upon us. Amen.

Ode 7. The Youths from Judea.

Theotokion.

You appeared incarnate from a virgin womb for our salvation; therefore, knowing your Mother to be Mother of God, with thanksgiving we cry: God of our Fathers, blessed are you.

Ode 8. The King of heaven.

Theotokion.

The One who came down from heaven and dwelt in a virgin womb, praise and highly exalt to all the ages.

The Irmos.

The King of heaven, whom the ranks of Angels praise, praise and highly exalt to all the ages.

Ode 9. Mother of God most High.

Theotokion.

Sovereign Lady, slay my sin that still lives, give life to the death of soul by the force of the true Life born from your womb through ineffable compassion for those who devoutly magnify you.

The Irmos.

Mother of God most High, who knew not wedlock, who through a word conceived beyond understanding the true God, who are higher than the immaculate Powers, with never silent hymns of glory we magnify you.

Exapostilarion. Women hear.

Fair virgin, strengthened by the divine teachings of God’s herald Paul, you despised a corruptible suitor and followed Paul, O much-tried Protomartyr Thekla, Equal of the Apostles; therefore you have won from Christ the crown of victory.

Theotokion. To the same melody.

We, who have been saved through you, rightly confess you, Lady, to be Mother of God; for you conceived ineffably the God who abolished death through the Cross, drawing to himself armies of Martyrs. With them, O Virgin, we sing your praise.

At Lauds, Idiomel Stichera.

Tone 1. By Anatolios.

The stadium of the contest lies before us to-day. Peoples, let us dance and let us observe the wondrous deeds that are accomplished there; for a spotless lamb, the fair virgin and bride of God Thekla is brought out for slaughter for the sake of Christ our God who was slaughtered; and so by the faith of the Trinity she destroyed the godlessness of tyrants and, as she dances with the Angels, she intercedes with the Saviour that our souls may be saved.

By Anatolios.

Brave champion Thekla, with Christ as your Bridegroom in heaven, you despised your earthly suitor; for wisely you did not yield to a mother’s flatteries, but followed Paul, taking on your shoulders the standard of the Cross. The fire did not harm you; you changed the savagery of the wild beasts to tameness; you slew seals by the descent into Christ that is holy Baptism. But, as you were distinguished by noble contests, do not cease to intercede continually with the Lord for those who in faith celebrate your ever-honoured memory.

Tone 4. By Anatolios.

You dedicated yourself to the all-powerful will; strengthened as Christ’s champion and abandoning earthly love, you were declared the lamp of eternal life; you are a blessed bridal chamber, in which flocks of women, having found the entrance to eternal life take their rest. With them, Apostle Thekla, intercede for our souls.

Tone 4. By Anatolios.

Lovers of martyrs, strike up the dance, for the season of contests is upon us, and the yearly memorial of the Protomartyr, which urges all to give glory to God: for Thekla, the first of Martyrs among women, has accomplished her contest, is the first to be declared the victor and she intercedes with boldness for our souls.

Protomartyr of Christ, it was not only the races of mankind that marvelled but wild beasts too were astonished. For you the flames were not reckoned as flames, fair virgin Thekla, because of your Bridegroom Christ, for you were glad as you suffered for him and were parted from the world that you might gain the blessedness of heaven as you intercede with boldness for our souls.

Bedew my understanding, All-pure Lady, with the showers of the Holy Spirit. As you bore Christ, the drop who wipes away the measureless lawlessness of mortals, dry up the source of my passions and make me worthy, O All-immaculate, of the torrent of eternal delight.

Or Cross-Theotokion.

When she saw you nailed to the Cross, O Lord, your lamb and Mother was amazed and cried: My Son, so dearly loved, what is this sight? Is this how the lawless, disobedient people that enjoyed your wonders rewards you? But glory, Master, to your ineffable condescension.

Aposticha, Stichera from the Oktoichos.

Come, lovers of contests, let us honour with hymns Thekla, the Protomartyr, the boast of women; for she trampled down the hostile adversary with the power of the Cross, and, having won the victory, deserved her crown. And so the Champion implores that those who celebrate with faith and love her memory may be delivered from dangers and from the judgement to come.

Truly we have no other mighty refuge, tower of strength and invincible wall but you, All-pure Virgin. To you we flee and to you we cry: Help us, Sovereign Lady, lest we perish. Show to all your grace, the glory of your power and the greatness of your compassion.

Or Cross-Theotokion.

You gave birth to the grape cluster of life that you bore unhusbanded in your womb. But when you saw him hanging you raised a loud lament and cried: My child, who drop down sweetness through which, O Benefactor, may all the intoxication of the passions be abolished by showing your compassion through me who gave you birth.

The rest of the Office, and Dismissal.

NOTE

Great Vespers.

Tone 1. Joy of the heavenly hosts.

The one who saw ineffable revelations,[1] the interpreter of God’s mysteries on high, the child of Zebedee, in writing for us Christ’s Gospel, taught us to contemplate the Father, the Son and the Spirit.

The lyre of heavenly songs, struck by God, this mystic writer, mouth inspired by God, sweetly sings the song of songs,[2] moving his lips like strings and striking with his tongue like a plectrum, and intercedes that we may be saved.

Beloved of God, giving utterance with your tongue, which sounds as the thunder,[3] to the hidden word of the wisdom of God, aptly opening your lips, you ever cry aloud, ‘In the beginning was the Word’,[4] and with your torch you guide everyone[5] to knowledge of God.

By Germanos (Some say by Vyzantios)

Race of mortals, let us, as is fitting, praise the son of thunder,[6] the foundation of divine words, the prince of theology and foremost herald of the true wisdom of the doctrines of God, John the beloved and virgin; for he had the divine unceasingly in himself and said, ‘In the beginning the Word’[7], and again that he is inseparably with the Father, and after this that he is equal in being with the Father,[8] showing us through him the right belief of the Holy Trinity. He showed us that he is creator with the Father, and the one who bears life and true light.[9] O ecstatic wonder and astounding fact! Because being full of love he became also full of theology, by glory and honour and faith being a foundation of our inviolate faith; through which ,may we obtain the eternal good things on the day of judgement.

The shadow of the law[10] has passed away now that grace has come, for as the Bush in flames was not burned,[11] so as a virgin you bore a child and remained a virgin; instead of a pillar of fire[12] the Sun of justice[13] has dawned, instead of Moses Christ, the salvation of our souls.

The reading is from the 1st Epistle General of John.

(3,21-24; 4,1-6)

Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us we have freedom to speak before God. And whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment: that we should believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as he gave us commandment. And one who keeps his commandments abides in him and he in them. And by this we know that he abides in us, from the Spirit of which he has given us. Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and is now already in the world. You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us.

The reading is from the 1st Epistle General of John.

(4,11-16)

Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God. If we love another, God abides in us, and his love has been perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in him, and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and witness that the Father has sent the Son as Saviour of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in them, and they in God. And we have known and have believed the love which God has for us. God is love, and one who abides in love abides in God, and God in them.

The reading is from the 1st Epistle General of John.

(4,20-21; 5,1-5)

Beloved, anyone who says, ‘I love God,’ and hates their brother, is a liar; for one who does not love the brother whom they have seen, how can they love God whom they have not seen? And this commandment we have from him: that one who loves God must love their brother also. Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the one who has begotten loves also the one who has been begotten of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not heavy. Because everything that has been born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that has conquered the world, our faith. Who is the one who conquers the world, if not the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

At the Liti, Idiomel stichera.

Tone 1. By Germanos.

Rivers of theology poured from your honoured mouth, O Apostle, watered from which the Church of God worships with right belief the consubstantial Trinity; whom, O Theologian John, now ask that our souls may be saved.

Same Tone. By Andrew of Pyros.

The plant of purity, the myrrh of sweet fragrance has dawned for us again at this present Feast. Cry out to him, ‘You leant on the Master’s breast[14] and rained down the word on the world, Apostle John, who guarded the Virgin as the apple of your eye. Ask of Christ for us his great mercy’.

Same Tone.

Disciple of the Saviour, Virgin and Theologian, to you, as virgin, Christ our God, hanging on the Cross, entrusted the Virgin and Mother of God, and you guarded her as the apple of your eye.[15] Therefore intercede that our souls may be saved.

Same Tone.

As eye-witness of ineffable mysteries you cried out and loudly proclaimed that the eternal Word was in the beginning with God and that he was God,[16] O Apostle John, bosom and true friend of Christ, sweetness of the Trinity, unshakeable buttress of Ephesus and Patmos and our help. Intercede, all-blessed Theologian, that the people that ever faithfully celebrates your memory may be delivered from impious foes, both physical and spiritual.

Tone 2. By Theophanes.

The summit of the Apostles, the trumpet of theology, the spiritual general, who made the whole inhabited world subject to God, come believers, let us call him blessed, revered John, translated from earth, yet not withdrawn from earth, but living and abiding the fearful second coming of the Master. O mystic bosom friend of Christ, ask that we, who celebrate your memory with love, may meet it uncondemned.

As you leant on the breast of the Teacher Christ at the Lord’s supper,[17] beloved Disciple, you learnt there ineffable things, and you thundered to all the heavenly utterance: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God; the true light that enlightens every one who comes into the world,[18] Christ God, and the Saviour of our souls.

The Son, who with the Father and the Spirit is glorified in the highest by the Cherubim, wishing to refashion the first fashioned man, emptied himself wholly and ineffably in your womb, all-praised Mother of God, and dawning from you, he enlightened the whole world with his Godhead, delivering it from the folly of idols, and, making humanity divine in himself, he joined it to heaven, Christ our God, and the Saviour of our souls.

At the Aposticha, Prosomia.

Tone 4. Called from the highest.

Having contemplated the Son of the Most High, co-eternal and consubstantial with the Father, unchanging light from light[19] and express imprint of the person of the Begetter,[20] who shone forth from him beyond time and impassibly, the Creator and Lord of all ages, you proclaimed him, Beloved Disciple, to the world, Christ our God, who brings light out of darkness.[21] Implore him to save and enlighten our souls.

Taken into the light of the Paraclete and enlightened by it, you contemplated the One who proceeds from the Father,[23] while being revealed to humanity through the Son, as the same in honour, in majesty and being, whom with the Father who has no beginning and the divine Word you preached to all, Beloved Disciple. Therefore in hymns we honour you as a godly foundation of the faith. Keep it unshaken by your prayers to the Lord.

Ascending the heights of theology, you were initiated into the ineffable mysteries of God: one being of the Godhead, and one glory and kingship and lordship, separated in three persons, inseparable in being and united in an unconfused divine unity. Giving glory in this way, O Theologian, you proclaimed an undivided Trinity. Implore that undivided Trinity to save and enlighten our souls.

Apostle of Christ, Evangelist, Theologian, you became an initiate of ineffable mysteries and thundered out to us the ineffable doctrines of wisdom, making clear to believers that: In the beginning he was.[25] And, rejecting the: He was not,[26] you refuted the words of the heretics, revealed as bosom and beloved friend, as mighty-voiced Isaias and Moses who saw God.[27] As you have freedom to speak before God, implore him insistently on behalf of our souls.

My Maker and Redeemer, Christ the Lord, coming forth from your womb, O All-pure, clothed himself in me and freed Adam from the former curse;[28] and so, never silent, we all cry out to you as truly Mother of God and Virgin the Angel’s, ‘Hail!’[29] Hail, Lady, shelter and protection and salvation of our souls.

Apolytikion. Tone 2.

Beloved Apostle of Christ our God, hasten, deliver a people without defence. As he accepted that you lean upon his breast,[30] he accepts you as you fall before him. Implore him, O Theologian, and scatter the persistent cloud of nations, asking for us peace and his great mercy.

All your mysteries are beyond understanding, all beyond glory, O Mother of God; sealed in purity and guarded in virginity you were recognised to be truly a Mother, in giving birth to the true God: implore him that our souls may be saved.

And Dismissal.

At Matins

After the 1st reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

You were named son of divine thunder,[31] for you deafened the ears of the impious, and more sweetly than a trumpet you made the incarnation of the Word sound in upright hearts. As a true friend you leant on his breast;[32] from which you drew out the deep of knowledge, all-wise Apostle John, and proclaimed to all the One who is with the Father without beginning. Intercede with Christ God to bestow forgiveness of faults on those who celebrate with love your holy memory.

Theotokion.

The Wisdom and Word you conceived in your womb, O Mother of God, and you bore for the world him who possesses the world, and you held in your arms him who holds all things and nourishes all, the Fashioner of nature; therefore I implore you, All-holy Virgin, that, when I am about to stand before the face of my Creator, I may be delivered from my faults. Sovereign Lady, pure Virgin, then bestow on me your help; for you are able to do whatever you wish, O all-praised.

After the 2nd reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Same melody.

Having abandoned the deep of fishing, O all-praised, you caught all the nations like fishes with the rod of the Cross; for as Christ had said to you, you were named a fisher of men,[33] catching them for true religion; therefore you sowed the knowledge of the Word of God and made Patmos and Ephesus fruitful by your words. Theologian, Apostle, intercede with Christ God to bestow forgiveness of faults on those who feast with love your holy memory.

Theotokion.

I consider the judgement and I quail, for, wretch that I am, I have done deeds of shame, and I ask, all-praised Mother of God: Before the night of death overtakes me, turn me back, guiding me to the way of repentance, that with thanksgiving I may worship and hymn your measureless power and your divine assistance, All-holy Bride of God, as you intercede with Christ God for what I ask of you: that there may be given me pardon of sins and his great mercy.

Selection at the Polyeleos.

The firmament. Alleluia.

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims the work of his hands.

The heavens will confess your wonders, O Lord.

Instead of your fathers your sons have been born.

You will establish them as rulers over all the earth.

For God’s mighty men of the earth are greatly exalted.

The God of gods has spoken and summoned the earth.

From the rising of the sun to its setting, praised be the name of the Lord.

His lightnings have lit up the world.

And the heavens have proclaimed his justice.

And all the peoples have seen his glory.

Rulers of Juda are their leaders.

Rulers of Zaboulon rulers of Nephalim.

God has reigned over the nations.

God is glorified in the assembly of the saints.

Great and terrible he is to all those round about him.

Offer to the Lord families of nations,

Offer to the Lord glory and honour.

Proclaim his glory among the nations.

Say among the nations that the Lord is king.

Their sound has gone out into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.

He has put in them the words of his lips.

And he gave them countries of nations, and they inherited labours of peoples.

God has stood in the assembly of gods, in the midst he will judge gods.

Offer to the Lord, sons of God, offer to the Lord glory to his name.

He has subdued peoples to us, and nations beneath our feet.

Great is our God, and great his strength.

He will give power and might to his people. Blessed be God.

Glory.

Let us worship the Father, and let us glorify the Son, and let us all praise together the all holy Spirit, crying out and saying: All holy Trinity, save us all.

Both now.

Your people, O Christ, brings your Mother to intercede; at her entreaties grant us your pity, O Good one, that we may glorify you, who dawned for us from the grave.

After the Polyeleos, Kathisma. Same melody.

Leaning on Jesus’ breast, gaining boldness as a disciple, you asked, ‘Who is your betrayer, Lord?’ And as to one beloved, glorious Apostle, he was clearly shown to you through the bread.[34] Therefore too, as an initiate of ineffable things, you teach the ends of the earth the incarnation of the Word. Theologian, Apostle, intercede with Christ God to bestow forgiveness of faults on those who feast with love your holy memory.

Theotokion.

All-holy Virgin, Mother of God, heal, I beg, the dreadful passions of my soul, and grant me pardon of my faults, which I have senselessly committed, fouling my soul and body, wretch that I am. Alas! what shall I do in that hour when the Angels separate my soul from my wretched body? Then, Lady, be my help and fervent protector; for I, your servant, have you as my hope.

The Anavathmi, the 1st Antiphon of Tone 4.

Prokeimenon, Tone 4.

His sound has gone out into all the earth; and his words to the ends of the world.

Glory.

At the prayers of the Apostle, O Merciful One, blot out the multitude of my transgressions.

Both now.

At the prayers of the Mother of God, O Merciful One, blot out the multitude of my transgressions.

Have mercy one me, O God, in accordance with your great mercy and in accordance with the multitude of your compassion blot out the multitude of my transgressions.

Then the Idiomel. Tone 2.

Theologian, Virgin, beloved Disciple of the Saviour, by your intercessions save us, we implore, from every kind of harm; for we are your flock.

The Canons, of the Mother of God, and two of the Apostle.

Canon of the Mother of God,

of which the acrostic is the Alphabet in reverse order.

By Theophanes.

Ode 1. Tone 2. The Irmos.

His overwhelming power once smothered in the deep all Pharao’s host; while the incarnate Word, the glorified Lord, has wiped out malignant sin: for he has been greatly glorified.[35]

Troparia

Canon of the Saint, of which the acrostic is:

I shall praise the son of thunder in a way pleasing to Christ.

By Theophanes.

Ode 1. Tone 2. Same Irmos.

Having received the kingdom of heaven which you proclaimed, blessed Saint, and become a heavenly companion to the Word, by your entreaties guard those who believe your honoured proclamation and theology.

Displaying robust thought you despised everything on earth and the bonds of nature and, linked with the Word in reason and mind, All-wise Apostle, you freed from their unreason those subject to unreason.

Having received knowledge of heavenly things, with true theology you proclaimed God the Word of God, in your gospel, O all-wise, proclaiming: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with his Begetter and the Word was God.[38]

Theotokion.

The choir of godly maidens, greatly inspired, sing of you as beautiful among women, O Lady Mother of God, made lovely with the beauties of the Godhead; for beyond reason you bore the Word who creates beauty.

A second Canon of the Saint, of which the acrostic is:

I bring to God’s Initiate a sixth plea. Joseph.

Ode 1. Tone 6.

Crossing the sea as on dry land.

Illumined in thought, you bent down into the deeps of the Spirit and made clear to us the dread begetting, crying out: In the beginning was the Word of God.[39]

Bowed down by a multitude of temptations, passions and tribulations, and by assaults of evils, with faith we flee to you for refuge, O Theologian: be a helper to your servants.

Rescue us from eternal condemnation and fire, healing the dreadful passions of our souls, as best of physicians, O wise Apostle, by your mediation.

Theotokion.

On the day of judgement, Pure Virgin, who conceived the God who for our sake became man, ask him to take pity on us, who have sinned much against him.

Katavasia

I will open my mouth and it will be filled with the Spirit, and I will utter a word to the Queen and Mother,[40] and I shall be seen keeping glad festival, and rejoicing I will sing her wonders.

Of the Mother of God. Ode 3. Irmos.

The desert, the barren Church from the nations, flowered like a lily at your coming, Lord, by which my heart has been established.

Troparia

Of the Saint. The same Irmos.

With your theologian’s tongue, John blessed by God, you revealed the mystery beyond understanding of the Trinity, by which my heart has been established.[41]

Your tongue became the pen of a scribe,[42] the All-holy Spirit, writing for God as it recorded the honoured and divine Gospel.

I shall sing the praise of your deep of wisdom, O All-wise, who with boldness leant[43] on the inspired source of wisdom and were named his herald.

Theotokion.

We honour you, All-blameless, the only Virgin and Mother, who became for us the agent of salvation and who deliver the world by your prayers.

Another Irmos. None is holy.

With bright and pure mind, thrice-blessed Theologian, you spoke with the Word, were initiated by him with things clearly beyond reason and you enlightened all creation.

Deliver me from harsh bonds of sin, O Thrice-blessed, binding me to the love of the Master and God, whom you loved fervently and were named his Theologian.

You have been given us as champion, mediator, deliverer and intercessor with the Lord, as worker of marvels and source of healings, O Theologian; therefore we honour you.

Theotokion.

O Mother of God, when the Word who took flesh ineffably from you, was raised up on the tree of the Cross, he entrusted you, as Virgin Maiden, to the virgin Disciple.[44]

Katavasia.

O Mother of God, as living and ungrudging source, establish those united in spiritual fellowship who sing hymns you of praise, and in your divine glory grant them crowns of glory.

Kathisma. Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

Leaning on Wisdom’s breast[45] and learning knowledge from the Word, with inspiration you thundered: In the beginning was the Word;[46] being the first fairly to write of the begetting without beginning and to announce to all the incarnation of the Word; therefore too with your tongue you caught the nations in a net and you teach the ends of the earth the grace of the Holy Spirit. Theologian, Apostle, intercede with Christ God to bestow forgiveness of faults on those who feast with love your holy memory.

Theotokion.

As you bore the merciful and compassionate Word, Sovereign Lady of all, have mercy on all those who flee to you for refuge, free them from temptations and diseases, from every evil and from the eternal flame; that with thanksgiving we may glorify the wealth of your manifold compassion and your measureless mercy, and may always cry out to you: Intercede with Christ our God to bestow forgiveness of faults on those who fittingly hymn your child-bearing, O Immaculate.

Ode 4. The Irmos.

You came from a Virgin, not an ambassador, not an Angel, but the Lord himself incarnate, and saved me, humanity, entirely; therefore I cry to you: Glory to your power, O Lord![47]

Troparia

Of the Saint. The same Irmos.

Fittingly the Word declared you a theologian, O most excellent, for he initiated you into his Godhead and taught you the ineffable dispensation as man.

Having gained a mind inspired by God and a virgin body, most sacred and glorious Apostle, you were named a living and animate temple and dwelling of the all-hymned Trinity.

Blessed Virgin, you were honoured with sonship of the Immaculate Virgin, were declared brother of the one who chose you for himself and perfected you as disciple and theologian.

Theotokion.

To heal the ancient transgression of Eve, he who is above all Godhead, dwelt in you, O all-blameless and all-holy, and re-formed me, humanity, entirely.

Another. O Christ my power.

Drops of the Word, glorious Apostle, you used to water the whole face of the earth and devoutly dried up the muddy waters of impiety; therefore we honour you.

Strength and might gird about my soul, which weakened by varied attacks of unclean enemies, All-wise Apostle, flees to your protection.

In that you have become a temple of the divine Spirit, O Theologian, make those who in faith continually attend your divine temple, temples of God by your mediation.

Theotokion.

Now let us openly hymn the divine enclosure of God, the Holy Virgin, let us all, made divine through her and ransomed from troubles, call her blessed.

Katavasia.

The Prophet Avvakoum, understanding the unsearchable divine counsel of your incarnation from the Virgin, O Most High, cried out: Glory to your power, O Lord.

Of the Mother of God. Ode 5. The Irmos.

O Christ, you have become the Mediator between God and mortals,[48] for through you, Master, from the night of ignorance we have access to your Father, the source of light.

Troparia

Of the Saint. The same Irmos.

You appeared as a heavenly mind, O Theologian, by grace having become all light by your nearness to the source of light, and by your eager straining towards him becoming divine.

With pure mind, holy lips and all-chaste mouth, O God-inspired, you proclaimed your Gospel and proposed to all believers a common salvation.

Dwelling with Christ from infancy, you have been put forward by him as an instrument of grace, exercised in theology and supernaturally initiated into the glory of the Trinity.

Theotokion.

Mindful of your words we now call you blessed, O All-blameless, most truly enriched through you with ineffable blessedness and life that knows no ageing.

Another. With your divine light.

Like morning you made the spiritual dawn shine for those on earth, O Apostle, proclaiming to the world his dwelling in it with a body and his dispelling the darkness of the cult of many gods.

The sacred streams of theology, sacred herald and Apostle, you use to water every soul; therefore I cry to you: Water my heart, wholly dried up by sins.

I have been struck by the enemy’s darts, by your care, wise Apostle, make me whole, I beg, and direct me to the ways of God, who am ever led astray in pathless places.

Theotokion.

As you stood with the beloved Disciple by the Cross of your Son, All-blameless, you groaned and wept, and marvelled at his great compassion towards mankind.

Katavasia.

The universe was amazed at your divine glory, for you, O Virgin, who knew not wedlock held in your womb the God over all and gave birth to an eternal Son, who gives salvation as the prize to all who sing your praise.

Of the Mother of God. Ode 6. The Irmos.

Surrounded by a deep of offences, I call upon the unsearchable deep of your compassion: O God, lead me up from corruption.

Troparia

Of the Saint. The same Irmos.

Jesus, my God and Lord, contented with your purity and total chastity, O Theologian, made you his brother.[50]

Having crowned with sanctity your way of life, you thus with confidence leant on the breast of wisdom, glorious Apostle, and from there drew grace.

The great and godlike torches of your theology enlightened the whole inhabited world, glorious Apostle, and suffused it with the light of triple sun.

Theotokion.

He who stretched taut the heavens[51] by his will, made wide another heaven upon earth, you, O immaculate Mother of God, and he dawned from you and appeared.

Another. Watching life’s sea.

Truly your theologian’s tongue was like the pen of a swift writer,[52] writing well true knowledge and a brand new law, O Theologian, on the tables of our hearts.

As a skilled husbandman, wither up at their roots the plants of impiety, glorious Apostle, and plant in my soul the fear of God, which makes the fair fruit of virtues thrive.

The One who came forth from a Virgin clearly named you her son.[53] With her implore that all who do what is well-pleasing may be named sons of God by adoption.

Theotokion.

From you, O all-blameless, God was made known to mortals in the likeness of flesh. Ever implore him, O All-holy, to slay the destructive thoughts of our flesh.

Katavasia.

Come godly-minded people, as we celebrate this divine and honoured feast of the Mother of God, let us clap our hands as we glorify the God who was born of her.

Kontakion. Tone 2.

Who will recount your mighty works, O Virgin, for you pour out wonders and are a source of healings, and you intercede on behalf of our souls, as Theologian and friend of Christ.

The Ikos.

To learn wholly the high secrets of heaven, to investigate the depths of the sea is rash and beyond comprehension; as therefore it is wholly impossible to number all the stars and the sand on the sea shore, so it is to tell the graces of the Theologian, with so many crowns Christ has garlanded the one he loved; the one who leant on his breast[54] and feasted with him at the mystical supper, as Theologian and friend of Christ.

Synaxarion.

On the 26th day of the same month, the Translation of the holy, glorious Apostle and Evangelist, bosom friend, virgin, beloved, John the Theologian.

Verses.

Father’s beloved Word you stand beside,

Beloved more than all of the Disciples.

Passed on the twenty sixth day unto God the child of the thunder.

He was son of Zebedee and Salome, who was the daughter of Joseph the Betrothed; for Joseph had four sons, Jacob, Symeon, Juda and Joses, and three daughters, Esther, Martha and Salome, who became the wife of Zebedee and the mother of John; and so our Lord Jesus Christ was the John’s uncle, as brother of Salome, Joseph’s daughter.

At his holy prayers have mercy on us, O God. Amen.

Of the Mother of God. Ode 7. Irmos.

The godless order of a lawless tyrant fanned the soaring flame; but Christ let fall the dew of the Spirit upon the god-fearing children.[55] He is blessed and highly exalted.[56]

Troparia

Of the Saint, the same Irmos.

Shining with the outpouring of the divine light, you clearly revealed the Holy Spirit who proceeds from the Father who has no beginning, and rests in the Son as inseparably consubstantial.

In you, blessed Saint, the sun of justice made his dwelling, [58] making you an ever-moving heaven, and by your theologian’s tongue, Beloved, Christ the highly glorious[59] is proclaimed.

The divine sound, the power of your words has gone out,[60] O holy and all-blessed, and your Gospel, higher than the world, has encompassed the whole earth with the greatness of its doctrines.

Theotokion.

You alone displayed all-immaculate conceiving, child-birth without corruption, while remaining virgin; for you conceived God, who is over all, pure Virgin, when he became man for the salvation and redemption of believers.

Another. The Angel made the furnace.

Let us hymn the thunder which re-echoed to all the ends of the earth, through whom every senseless report has been removed from earth and Christ, the Maker of the universe is magnified.

The celebrated beauty of your house[61] makes every mind radiant. Assembled in it always in a manner fitting God, we hymn the Maker of all, and we praise you faithfully as our protector.

Knowing you to be a star radiating light, we beg you, Disciple of Christ, that by your mediation we may be enlightened by your dazzling beams and delivered from the darkness of the passions and from temptations of every kind.

Theotokion.

We bless you, O all-blameless, who bore the blessed Lord, who crowned with his divine blessings the nature of mortals which lay under a curse, and made us new who had become old through corruption.

Katavasia.

The godlike Children did not worship creation instead of the Creator, but bravely trampling on the threat of fire, rejoicing they sang: O highly exalted Lord and God of our fathers, blessed are you![62]

Of the Mother of God. Ode 8.

Irmos.

A fiery furnace once in Babylon, by divine decree, divided its action, burning up the Chaldeans but refreshing the faithful who sang: All you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.

Troparia

Of the Saint. Same Irmos.

Like a flash of light passing through the inhabited world, you appeared, blessed Saint, shining on the world with the radiance of chastity, the brightness of virginity and the doctrines of true religion, beloved of Christ our God.

Purified in body, soul and mind, you proclaimed the heavenly Gospel of Christ, and having become a companion of the Angels, you now cry out: All you works, bless the Lord![64]

You have become a radiant votive offering and a godly ornament of the heavenly temple and throne of perception and dwelling of wisdom, instrument of theology, as you sing: All you works, highly exalt the Lord!

Theotokion.

That you might abolish the former curse and the sentence of death of the Foremother of old, you were born, O Word of God, from a Virgin, God’s Mother, bestowing on all indestructible immortality.

Another. You were a fount of dew.

You gained a skilful tongue, blessed saint, and gave life to those dead through wickedness who accepted your sacred preaching; therefore we honour you as initiate of ineffable mysteries.

As another Paradise has your divine house been revealed, O Apostle, delighting the souls of all with wonders as with flowers and dispelling the foul stench of the passions.

O God, my God, attend to me and deliver me each day from foes who assail me and who crush my lowly heart, for I have your godlike Disciple to intercede.

Theotokion.

O full of God’s grace, ask Jesus the Saviour, who took his body from your pure blood, to have pity on your servants, and deliver us from eternal punishment.

Katavasia.

The Offspring of the Mother of God saved the innocent Youths in the furnace. Then he was prefigured, but now in reality he gathers the whole world which sings: All you works praise the Lord, and highly exalt him to all the ages.[65]

Of the Mother of God. Ode 9. Irmos.

The Son of the Father without beginning, God and Word, incarnate of a Virgin, has appeared to us, to give light to what is darkened, to gather what is scattered; and so the all-hymned Mother of God we magnify.

Troparia

Of the Saint. The same Irmos.

Now not dimly, but face to face,[67] you have been granted to see the flood of delight, the river of peace, and the fount of immortality; drawing from which you divine life.[68]

You asked to receive an earthly seat from Christ;[69] but he himself gave you his breast, O Theologian, leaning on which, the only sure stay,[70] you were enriched with goodness, O ornament of Apostles.

You quenched the godlessness of Greek wisdom, wise Apostle, when you proclaimed: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was truly God, though whom all things came to be, both visible and invisible.[71]

Theotokion.

Like early dawn you were found, blazing in the night of life with the rays of virginity, revealing to us the dawn of the spiritual Sun of justice,[72] O all-honoured Mother of God.

Another. It is impossible for mortals.

Sovereign Lord of times and seasons, the Redeemer was hanged upon the tree in the middle of the day and entrusted to you, blessed Apostle, as a virgin, the Ever-Virgin,[73] giving an irremovable glory to magnify you.

Even as you join with the divine Powers above and with them cry aloud the divine song, save by your mediations, those who chant and praise in your holy house the One who is supremely good, O Apostle of Christ.

Save from every danger, blessed Theologian, us who with faith call on you for help, in spirit direct our paths towards the Lord and guide us to the way of peace, the commandments of the Almighty.

Theotokion.

Let us now bring to God’s Mother an outstanding prayer of thanks, and let us now cry out: Hail, most high throne of God; hail cloud of light; hail, paradise, through whom may we be worthy of the delight of Paradise.

Katavasia.

Let all born of earth bearing torches, in spirit leap for joy; let the nature of the immaterial spirits honour and celebrate the wondrous sacred festival of the Mother of God, and let them cry: Hail, all-blessed Mother of God, pure and Ever-Virgin!

Exapostilarion. Women hear.

Becoming son of thunder[74] you proclaimed to mortals: In the beginning was the Word,[75] Apostle John; for faithfully leaning on your Master’s breast[76] and drawing thence the streams of theology, you water the whole creation.

Theotokion.

As you stood by the Cross of your Lord, All-pure one, with the virgin Disciple, you heard from the creator: Woman, behold your son; while to the Disciple likewise he said: Behold your mother; with him we all hymn you, Virgin Mother of God.[77]

At Lauds we insert 4 prosomia.

Tone 8. O marvellous wonder.

Blessed and all-wise John, with fervent abundance of the love of Christ you appeared more loved than all Disciples; to the all-seeing Word, who judges the whole inhabited world by just scales of purity and chastity, shining brightly with beauties in body and mind, O blessed of God.

Lying on wisdom’s breast[78] you drew forth the streams of theology and watered the world, most excellent John, drying up the sea of godlessness with the knowledge of the Trinity, becoming a pillar and living cloud[79] guiding us to our heavenly inheritance.

The flowering of virginity, the acceptable dwelling of revered virtues, instrument of wisdom, the sacred enclosure of the Spirit, the light-bearing mouth of grace, the radiant eye of the Church, all-honoured John, let us now praise with spiritual sons as a servant of Christ.

Inspired Evangelist, proclaiming the good news of the source of good things, an unshakeable kingdom and eternal life, inexpressible joy and enjoyment of divine contemplation, richly given gifts of Christ, surpassing the mind and understanding of mortals, O offspring of thunder,[80] you shone on the world.

Evangelist John, Virgin equal to the Angels, Theologian taught by God, with right belief you proclaimed to the world the immaculate side which poured forth blood and water,[81] by which we procure eternal life for our souls.

Lady, accept the supplications of your servants, and deliver us from every constraint and tribulation.

Great Doxology and Dismissal.

At the Liturgy, Typika and from the 3rd and 6th Odes of the Canons.

Communion.

His sound has gone out into all the earth, and his words to the ends of the world. Alleluia.

At Great Vespers

Tone 1. O marvellous wonder!

O marvellous wonder! The pure Mother of God each day unfolds her Protecting Veil, and with her motherly care and grace manifestly protects from every assault those who look to her and cry: Hail, Full of grace, protection and help of the your race that faithfully magnifies you, O Virgin.

Ah, your wonders, Pure Virgin! For you marvellously unfolded your Protecting Veil and wondrously protected the Queen of cities; while later by the grace of your light-bearing Protection you openly saved the people that bears Christ’s name from hostile threat. Therefore, raising songs of grateful praise, rejoicing we commemorate your many wonders.

The choirs of believers, Sovereign Lady, proclaim your providence towards us, as we praise your mother’s care. For from of old in your compassion you placed us beneath your Protection, and declared the race of the Orthodox to be your chosen lot. Therefore, O Full of grace, we cry to you: Hail! and magnify the graces of your godly Protecting Veil.

Other Prosomia. Tone 4. As noblest of Martyrs.

As we celebrate the memorial of your Protecting Veil, O Immaculate, we magnify your loving-kindness; because you rescue your race from every constraint and grant each day unstinted grace to those who praise the astounding mighty works of your glory and the greatness of its wonders.

Wondrously of old you invisibly unfolded your Protecting Veil and protected the Royal City, but now even more manifestly you protect us, immaculate Maiden, and you guard and keep safe from all affliction your new inheritance. Therefore we sing the praise of the gifts of your Protecting Veil, O Virgin, and your constant help.

In many ways, O Maiden, we know and clearly we have seen the manifestation of your holy Protection, shining out for by proofs and wonders, and with fervent tears we have glorified your abundant goodness, because you save us in dangers and grant joy to the afflicted and the suffering.

Today your faithful people, Mother of God, whom you declared to be a holy nation and a special inheritance, honours the grace of your Protecting Veil, as they sing your songs of thanksgiving. For you have worked wonders and marvels among us in past generations, but now also you protect us and give us strength, you have rescued us from foes who assail us and have filled our souls with joy. Therefore we confess your grace and taking refuge in your radiant Protection, we fervently cry out, ‘Until the end of the age, Queen of all, protect those who unhesitatingly call out to you.

The Reading is from Numbers.

On the day that the tabernacle was set up, the cloud covered the tabernacle, the house of the testimony. And at evening it was over the tabernacle like the appearance of fire until morning. So it was continually. The cloud covered it by day, and the appearance of fire by night. And whenever the cloud went up from the tent, after that the people of Israel set out. And in the place where the cloud stopped, there the people of Israel encamped. At the command of the Lord the people of Israel encamped, and at the command of the Lord they set out. ‘For as many days as the cloud overshadows the tabernacle, the children of Israel will remain in camp. Even when the cloud has continued over the tabernacle many days, the children of Israel will keep the charge of the Lord, and they are not to set out. And it shall that whenever the cloud covers the tabernacle for a number of days, in accordance with the word of the Lord they will remain in camp, and in accordance with the command of the Lord they will set out. And it shall be that whenever the cloud remains from evening until morning; and that the cloud goes up in the morning, they will set out by day or by night. When the cloud overshadows it for a month, or longer, the children of Israel shall remain in camp and not set out. Because they will set out at the command of the Lord’. They kept the charge of the Lord, at the command of the Lord by Moses.

The Reading is from Exodus.

And it came to pass in the first month in the second year since the children of Israel had set out from Egypt, at the new moon the tabernacle was erected. And Moses erected the tabernacle; he laid its capitals, put in its bars, and raised up its pillars. And he spread the curtains over the tabernacle, and put the covering of the tabernacle over it, as the Lord had commanded Moses. And he took the testimonies and put them into the ark, and put the poles under the ark, and put the covering of the veil on it and covered the ark of testimony, as the Lord had commanded Moses. And he put the table in the tabernacle of testimony, on the north side, outside the veil of the tabernacle. And he set the bread of the on it before the Lord; as the Lord had commanded Moses. And he put the lampstand in the tabernacle of testimony, on the south side of the tabernacle, and set up its lamps before the Lord; as the Lord had commanded Moses. And he put the golden altar in the tabernacle of testimony before the veil, and on it he burnt incense that had been compounded; as the Lord had commanded Moses. And he set the altar of burnt offering at the door of the tabernacle. And he set the court round the tabernacle of testimony. So Moses finished the whole work. Then the cloud covered the tabernacle of testimony, and the tabernacle was filled with the glory of the Lord. And Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle of testimony because the cloud overshadowed it, and the tabernacle was filled with the glory of the Lord. Whenever the cloud went up from the tabernacle, the children of Israel would move off with their baggage. but if the cloud did not go up, then they did not move off until the day that the cloud did go up. For the cloud was on the tabernacle by day, and fire was on it by night, in the sight of all Israel at every stage of their journey.

The Reading is from the Prophecy of Ezekiel.

It shall be from the eighth day and upwards, the Priests shall make your holocausts upon the altar, and those for your salvation; and I shall accept you, says the Lord. And he turned me back by the way of the outer gate of the Holy Place, which looks towards the east, and it was shut. And the Lord said to me: This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened, and no one shall pass through it, because the Lord, the God of Israel, will enter through it, and it shall be shut. Therefore this prince shall sit in it to eat bread. By the way of the Elam of the gate he shall enter, and by that way he shall go out. And he brought me by the way of the gate towards the North, opposite the House; and I saw, and behold the whole house of the Lord was full of glory.

At the Liti, Idiomels.

Tone 1.

Every country of the Orthodox, rejoice, for you are protected by the Protecting Veil of the all-praised Mother of God. For invisibly she, the Mother of the unsetting Light, unfolding it like a cloud of light, wraps you around, protects you from every side and turns back the regiments of enemies both perceptible and immaterial. Therefore with triumphant voice proclaim the grace you have been given, and resoundingly praise the Virgin who protects you, crying aloud, ‘Hail, Full of grace, the Lord is with you, he who through you grants the world his great mercy!’

Tone 2.

As a radiant Queen you appeared to venerable Andrew, manifesting yourself invisibly in the church of Vlachernae, Mother of God, and you protected the queen of cities by unfolding your Protecting Veil, while you have filled us with joy by the exercise of your aid. But, Virgin all-praised, our protection and help, keep our race safe, we beg, from every assault.

Tone 3.

Of old the cloud covered the tabernacle of witness, foreshadowing, O Virgin, the mystery accomplished by you. But now your Protecting Veil, formed like lightning, covers and overshadows, as a bird her nestlings, the people that bears the name of Christ, and that fervently has recourse to you. And this you made manifest to the royal city though an ineffable appearance. Revealing your goodness towards us. Therefore, as we celebrate the memory of this, we proclaim the benefits you have shown us and your solicitude for us, because you save us at each moment from every affliction.

Tone 4.

Your Protecting Veil, Virgin Mother of God, shining out more brightly than the rays of the sun, glorious and astounding, wondrous and saving, works for our preservation. For of old, working marvels beyond nature, it saved the Queen of cities many times from unexpected dangers and disasters. Now too, All-immaculate, by your rich goodness, it rescues us from every constraint, and grants refreshing dew and gladness of heart in afflictions. As we acclaim it wonders, we bring you our festive praise, from our souls cry out, ‘Do not take your defence from us, pure Maiden, but protect and guard us, who are your inheritance.

Today the Queen of all, the Virgin Mother, spreading out her Protecting Veil formed of light, like a mother protects our race. Come, then, Orthodox peoples, let us with pure minds contemplate the Mother of God’s abundant providence for us. Because she is near us in good times and in afflictions, and she safely guides us to the aim of our calling on high, and, as Mother of God, she obtains for us grace and mercy and eternal salvation.

At the Aposticha, Prosomia. Tone 5.

Hail, pure Mother of God, inexhaustible fount of goodness, protection and fervent defence of the Orthodox, and comfort in afflictions. For in you, All-unblemished, we always take refuge, and by your grace we truly obtain salvation, peace and redemption. Therefore we praise the wonders of your divine Protecting Veil and we magnify, O Maiden, the acts of compassion of your foreknowledge, through which you ever save from disasters of every kind those who have put their trust in you.

In a radiant vision you appeared to God-bearing Andrew in the church of Vlachernae, as pure Sovereign far above the world, spiritually protecting your inheritance. And so as we celebrate the yearly memorial of this, we praise the greatness of your glory, and we, your people, cry to you, All-pure One, ‘Protect and guard with your Protecting Veil, O Virgin, us, whom you showed of old to be your portion, granting us all, O Maiden, joy, peace and great mercy’.

Unwaveringly confident in your shining Protecting Veil, pure Virgin, and the hope of your firm defence, your Orthodox people routed the arrogance of the foe. And so they raise their song of thankful praise and celebrate today the resplendent festival of your Protecting Veil, and fervently cry to you, pure Maiden, ‘You are my protection and champion and great rampart, and saved by your grace, All-holy, I sing your praise. But, Sovereign Lady, deliver me from future oppressive trials.

The manifold displays of your saving Protection for your race, O Immaculate, astound every ear. For both of old and now in every way and at every time you come and deliver us from every constraint by ways that you know, Lover of goodness. Therefore Sovereign Lady all-praised, do not to show us your ancient mercies until the end of the age, for we are your flock.

Apolytikion. Tone 1. Citizen of the desert.

We sing the praise of the graces of your Protecting Veil, O Virgin, which like a light-bearing cloud you unfold beyond understanding, and you spiritually protect your people from every assault of their foe. For we have gained you as Protection and defender and helper, as we cry out to you: Glory to your mighty deeds, O Pure one; glory to your Protection; glory to your providence towards us, O Immaculate!

Another. Tone 8. Mother of God Ever-Virgin.

Mother of God Ever-Virgin, you have given your holy Protection, through which you protect those who hope in you, as a mighty refuge for your race. For as of old so now you have wondrously saved us, enveloping your people like a spiritual cloud. And so we implore you to grant peace to your commonwealth, and to our souls God’s great mercy.

Matins

After the 1st Reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.

Tone 1. The soldiers watching.

We sing the praise, Pure Virgin, of your holy Protection, which, in your goodness and motherly compassion, at every moment protects and watches over us, whom you have declared to be your lot and chosen part. But guard us also, Sovereign Lady, in future need.

Twice.

After the 2nd Reading, Kathisma.

Tone 4. Speedily anticipate.

Venerable Andrew was amazed when in the church of Vlachernae he saw you unfolding for us your godly Robe, which is guarded there, pure Maiden, and reveals to all the grace of your protection, through which you protect and save us from every affliction.

Twice.

After the Polyeleos, Kathisma.

Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

As you unfold each day your holy and wondrous Protection, which the cloud in the Law prefigured, you enfold your race, O Maiden, that looks intently for your goodness, and ever awaits the help which you give, Mother of God. And at all times turn the mad rage of enemies from us who sing the praise of the greatness of your wonders, as you intercede with your Son and God to grant forgiveness of faults to us who celebrate with love your all-radiant Protection.

Twice.

The 1st Antiphon of the 4th Tone and the Prokeimenon.

I will remember your name in every generation.

Matins Gospel of the 8th of September.

Psalm 50.

Glory.

At the prayers of the Mother of God, O Merciful One, blot out the multitude of my transgressions.

Both now.

At the prayers of the all-immaculate, O Merciful One, blot out the multitude of my transgressions.

Idiomel. Tone 6.

Verse Have mercy on me, O God, according to your great mercy; according to the fullness of your compassion blot out my offences.

Today the all-praised Virgin, unfolding her shining Protection, manifested clearly to the faithful her rich good favour in good times and in afflictions; therefore as we, who are protected by her, praise her grace, let us cry out with joy: Hail, Full of grace, Mother of God, who save our race and safely accompany us and guide us to the way of salvation.

Then are sung the following two Canons of the Mother of God.

First Canon, of which the acrostic is:

You are the Protection of believers,

O Virgin. By Gerasimos.

Ode 1. Tone 4. Irmos.

Troparia.

As all-pure Mother of God, grant me wisdom, and give me eloquence that I may radiantly praise the wonders of your holy Protection, through which you always protect those who honour you.

You unfolded from above the lighting blaze of your Protecting Veil, and sheltered under it not only the queen of cites but your whole race that bears the name of Christ.

Venerable Andrew saw you of old in an ineffable vision in the church of Vlachernae, Pure Virgin, protecting the ends of the world by the unfurling of your godly Robe.

Your race’s army, taking invincible strength from your Protection, defeated regiments of foes and won a radiant victory. And so, Sovereign Lady, it sings your mighty deeds.

Second Canon, of which the acrostic is:

I hymn the Protection of the Mother of God. By Gerasimos.

Ode 1. Tone 8. Moses’ rod once drowned.

Protection and fervent help of the world, Pure Virgin Mother, who gave birth ineffably to God the Word, by your rich grace make clear my voice who magnify in song your most wondrous Protection.

Adorned with embroideries of the Spirit as queen of the universe, and blazing with rays brighter than the sun, you appeared and spiritually unfolded your Protecting Veil, and you protected your people, O Virgin, who hope in you.

The cloud in the Law, which covered the Tent of Witness, prefigured of old your holy Protection; for each day you cover, bedew and warm the Church, O All-blameless, with the overshadowing of your Protecting Veil.

Full of light, full of mercy, Sovereign Lady, you were mystically present in the church of Vlachernae, and with splendour you displayed the singular grace of your kindness towards us by the unfurling of your Protecting Veil. Therefore, as is fitting, we sing your praise.

Katavasia, the Irmos of the 1st Canon.

First Canon.

Ode 3. Irmos.

Troparia.

Your Protection, formed of light, is a source of heavenly joy, O All-unblemished, ever awarding to those who wrestle with afflictions grace, mercy and salvation.

From the beginning through compassion you placed us, as a chosen race, beneath your Protecting Veil, O Virgin, and both of old and now you have worked strange and wondrous things, rescuing us from dangers.

When godly Epiphanios heard the words of Venerable Andrew, he saw you as a heavenly queen protecting the people that bears Christ’s name.

As we see the multitude of wonders of your godly Protection, O Virgin, which you work everyday for our preservation, we, the multitudes of believers, bring you thankful praises.

Second Canon.

Christ who made firm the heavens.

Your all-radiant Protection, Mother of God, ever blazing with bolts of immaterial light, dissolves the gloomy plots of the enemies, but gladdens the minds of the faithful with your glory.

You were the fulfilment of the Law, Pure Virgin, in giving birth beyond explanation to him who spoke to the Prophets in types and revealed to the world the fulfilment of the light of Law, your radiant Protection. And so we sing the praise of your glory.

Each single day we run like nestlings beneath your Protecting Veil, Pure Virgin. Therefore protect us from the arrows of the serpent, giving to us peace and security of life.

In giving birth to God the Word, you were revealed as cause of ten thousand blessings for the human race, and by your Protection, O Virgin, you rescue from ten thousand constraints and trials and afflictions those who honour you.

Katavasia, the Irmos of the 1st Canon.

Kathisma. Tone 3.

You appeared, O All-praised, as Protection, salvation, help and defence of your Orthodox peoples; therefore we magnify your Protection and we proclaim your fervent defence, All-pure Maiden, who protect our souls from every assault of the dragon. Twice.

First Canon.

Ode 4. Irmos.

Troparia.

Invisibly unfolding your shining Protection, each day you protect, encompass, cherish and save from every affliction those who cry to you: Glory, O Virgin, to your glory!

The revelation of your great goodness, O Maiden, and your distribution of the gifts which your ever show to our race, amaze mind and thought. And so, Sovereign Lady, we sing the praise of your grace.

Being present invisibly you clearly revealed to your servants your all-holy Protection in Byzantium of old, O Bride of God. Through it you ever protect us, for you love goodness.

Having you, O Maiden, as defence in dangers, respite in slavery, guide and assistance in all the circumstances of our life, we take refuge under your shining Protection.

Second Canon. You are my strength.

By the overshadowing of your Protecting Veil, Mother of God, you dispel from our hearts the night of passions, for you are loving, and you make the day of joy and the brightness of gladness shine out; and you make radiant those who cry out to you: Hail, the world’s Protection filled with light.

From you God appeared to the world as man, born from your blood, and revealed you as the mighty Protection of the world, O Virgin, and help in afflictions; for you always shelter and rescue from dangers those who with love have recourse to your Protection.

As you bore in your womb the King of the universe, you appeared as queen of all things, escorted by godlike Saints, and spiritually you revealed to us the manifestations of your holy Protection by your most godly appearing, O All-immaculate.

Your wondrous and dazzling Protection, through which, O All-praised, you protect and save every soul of the devout, we who are saved through it from dread trials praise and faithfully cry out to you: Hail, Maiden, help of mortals!

Katavasia, the Irmos of the 1st Canon.

First Canon.

Ode 5. Irmos.

Troparia.

Your suppliant people, O All-praised, celebrates the holy memory of your Protecting Veil, for you came to the church of Vlachernae and there, O Immaculate, you spiritually protected all those who faithfully glorify you.

By your visitation, pure Maiden, destroy the insolence of the hostile lion who goes roaring each day to swallow down your inheritance, and overthrow his arrogance and pride.

As we celebrate the memory of your light-bearing Protection, we sing you thanksgivings for salvation, O Virgin, for you have delivered us from bitter slavery and mightily humbled the overweening enemy who came against us.

As a godly jar of alabaster of the All-holy Spirit, Mother of God full of grace, show me, who with faith ever take refuge under your Protection and sing the praise of your glory, to be a vessel of divine grace.

Second Canon. Why have you rejected me?

Your holy Protection, like a cloud all of light unfurled upon your servants, O Maiden, as Isaias says, rescues from the evil heat of the assault of Beliar, and bedews us with your grace.

You clearly displayed a great wonder, O All-blameless, for the safe-keeping of your faithful people; for you sheltered them invisibly with your godlike hands by your honoured Veil. Therefore rejoicing we all praise you.

In the wilderness of old a shining cloud protected the Israelite people, O Maiden; while now your all-radiant Protecting Veil protects us and guides us, and directs us to the light of your Son’s commandments every day.

Katavasia.

The universe was amazed at your divine glory, for you, O Virgin, who knew not wedlock, held in your womb the God who is over all and gave birth to an eternal Son, who gives salvation as the prize to all who sing your praise.

First Canon.

Ode 6. Irmos.

Troparia.

By night a pillar of fire once guided the Israelite people, while now, O Immaculate, your Protecting Veil, formed like lightning, ever guides us to salvation.

Unfolding your Protection, wholly light, you protect us each day, All-pure Virgin, as we now know. What return then shall we make you for your grace?

Of old and now you have shown us to be your own chosen portion and a people for your won possession, O Maiden. Therefore the company of the Orthodox sings your praise.

Your faithful and God-loving people, O Maiden, proclaims your grace and, delivered from dangers and perils, sings a song of thanksgiving to your Protection.

Second Canon. Be merciful to me, Saviour.

In truth, O Queen of the universe, you appeared all light and wondrously unfolded your most pure Protection, protecting your servants. Therefore we sing the praise of your great loving-kindness.

The Cherubim once overshadowed the ark under the Law; while now your Protection protects the Church of Christ, All blessed one, overshadows her and grants unstinted grace.

The Israel of old was led by a cloud to the Promised Land, while the new Israel is guided by your Protecting Veil towards unending life.

Round us you throw your radiant Protection, O most pure, like fire consuming the foolish, saving us from their folly. Therefore we glorify you.

Katavasia, the Irmos of the 1st Canon.

Kontakion. Tone 8. To you, my Champion.

Like a cloud brightly overshadowing the whole company of the Church, O all-pure, you appeared of old on the royal City. But as the Protection and Champion of your people, protect from every affliction us who cry to you: Hail, Protection wholly light.

The Ikos.

Unfolding from on high your holy Protection, Virgin Mary, Mother of God, you protect and save your people, who cry out to you, Pure Maiden, hour by hour, while now they gratefully sing the praise of your wonders as they cry: Hail, Protection, wholly light!

Hail, gate of salvation.

Hail, Protection of the Church.

Hail, wondrous vision of the Angels.

Hail, unshakeable support of mortals.

Hail, Ever-Virgin Mother of Christ the universal King.

Hail, Protection and assistance of your faithful people.

Hail, for you appeared protecting your race.

Hail, for you grant victories to the troops.

Hail, source of abundant goodness.

Hail, lamp of God’s loving-kindness.

Hail, for through you we conquer the foe.

Hail, for to you we cry out each day:

Hail, Protection wholly light!

Synaxarion.

On the 1st [28th] of the month we celebrate the commemoration of the Protecting Veil of our most holy Lady, Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary, who ever gives special protection to the Orthodox people, as of old she protected the Queen of cities.

Verses

Those who with faith, pure Virgin, look to you

With your Protection you protect and cherish.

Protection of God’s Mother veils God’s people.

Once, during an all-night vigil that was being celebrated in the holy shrine in Vlachernae, the blessed Andrew went there, as was his custom. Epiphanios was there also with one of his children. He was would stand there, as his custom was, because his fervour gave him strength, sometimes until midnight, sometimes until dawn. And so, when it was already about eleven o’clock at night, the blessed Andrew saw with his own eyes a most extraordinary vision coming in female form from the royal doors with a dread entourage, among which was the honoured Forerunner and the son thunder, holding her by the hand on either side, and many Saints, robed in white, went before her; while others followed with hymns and spiritual songs. When she drew near the ambo, Andrew approached Epiphanios and said, ‘Do you see the Lady and Mistress of the world?’ He replied, ‘Yes, my spiritual father.’

And as they watched, she bowed her knees and prayed for a long time, shedding tears down her godlike and immaculate face. After her prayer, she advanced to the sanctuary, where she entreated for the people present. So when she had removed the veil which she was wearing on her most-pure head and which had the appearance of lightning, she unrolled it and taking it with great reverence in her all-pure hands — it was large and awesome — spread it out above all the people who were standing there. The saints saw it stretched out over the people for a number of hours and blazing with the gory of the Lord like amber. As long as the most holy Mother of God was there, it was visible also, but after she had departed, it was no longer to be seen. For while she indeed took it with, she felt behind her grace for those who were there.

At the prayers of your most pure Mother, Christ God, have mercy and protect us from visible and invisible enemies and save our souls. Amen.

First Canon.

Ode 7. Irmos.

Troparia

You have placed us, Sovereign Lady, under your Protecting Veil, and you ever protect us from dread abuse, assault of foes and every affliction. Therefore with upraised voices we all sing your praise to the ages.

You protected the royal city of Constantine as your chosen part, Pure Virgin; likewise you now protect with your glory, All-blameless Lady, us who take refuge in your fervent defence.

The wondrous overshadowing of our race with your godlike Protection, Pure Virgin, clearly manifests your providence, through which you grant joy and peace to our souls.

Unhusbanded, O All-pure, you husbanded Christ, the Husbandman of our life; as cause of our joy you appeared to those who sang, Hail, Sovereign Lady of our race, saviour and sweet help.

Second Canon. God’s condescension.

The living house in which God Most High made his dwelling, the Pure Mother of God, was seen of old in her house and unfolding her Veil she wondrously protected those who had put their trust in her.

We are wholly unable to comprehend the greatness of your goodness towards us, O Maiden; for as a truly loving mother you protect, cherish and nourish us each day. And so we sing the praise of your godly Protection.

God-bearing Andrew in an immaterial vision saw you in mind spiritually unfolding your radiant Protection for your suppliants, and he praised you marvellous works, that are beyond reason and understanding.

Of old a cloud of light covered the tent of witness; while now your wondrous and most radiant Protection, immaculate Maiden, covers the Church of Christ day and night as the mountain of God.

Katavasia, the Irmos of the 1st Canon.

Ode 8. First Canon. Irmos.

In many ways you revealed of old the force of your Protection, Mother of God, by signs and wonders and countless deeds of power, acting as our Champion every day, O All-pure; while now we sing the praise of your saving wondrous works.

Your chosen people, O All-blameless, faithfully receiving force and strength from your godly Protection, ever escapes from afflictions that attack them and from warlike foes, and remains unharmed by any madness, Mother of God, through your solicitude.

From on high, Immaculate Virgin, unfold your holy and most radiant Protection, and as of old protect us and keep us safe from foes who attack us, and deliver your inheritance from their wickedness and assault.

Venerable Andrew and venerable and godly Epiphanios saw you unfolding the Protecting Veil that had protected your immaculate body, Mother of God Ever-Virgin, and they were amazed; for you protected all, O Maiden, with immaterial light and heavenly glory.

Second Canon. The One who was glorified.

To those who walk in the night of life, Pure Virgin, your all-holy Protection grants divine force, light and salvation and directs them all to the repose of eternal life.

The choirs of the Bodiless Powers and of the Saints, seeing you, Pure Virgin, in your holy church unfolding your sacred veil and protecting the world, praised the fount of your mercy.

Protection of the world, wider than a cloud, are you, pure Mother of God, salvation of mortals; and so, as we celebrate with love the commemoration of your honoured Protection, we praise the multitudes of your wonders.

Having gained you, pure Virgin, as a mighty defence in life and unbreakable hope, we take refuge under your mighty Protection, and we are rescued from the stumbling-blocks of the Trickster as we sing the praise of your grace.

Katavasia, the Irmos of the 1st Canon.

Ode 9. First Canon. Irmos.

Angels magnify in hymns the Protection of the Mother of God, for it protects the choirs of believers in every place.

Angels, seeing the Protecting Veil of the Mother of God were amazed at how it protects and saves those who trust in it.

The dew which falls in drops from your Godly Protection as from an immaterial cloud, O Immaculate, becomes healing for us and brings to an end sicknesses of soul and body for those who cry: Hail, Ever-Virgin, our joy and consolation!

Angels and mortals honour your revered Protection, Sovereign Lady, for by it you protect all those who faithfully sing your praise.

The Church of the faithful celebrates a sacred memorial of your wonders to your glory and praise, O All-blameless, and with faith taking refuge under your Protection, cries out to you: Protect and guard me until my life’s end, O All-praised.

Angels and mortals magnify the Protecting Veil of the All-pure, for it protects and saves all who honour it.

With all our soul let us gather to your godly Protection, immaculate Lady, bringing thankful praise with fervent gratitude, for you haveerial cloud, O Immaculate, becomes healing for us and brings to an end sicknesses of soul and body for those who cry: Hail, Ever-Virgin, our joy and consolation!

Angels and mortals honour your revered Protection, Sovereign Lady, for by it you protect all those who faithfully sing your praise.

The Church of the faithful celebrates a sacred memorial of your wonders to your glory and praise, O All-blameless, and with faith taking refuge under your Protection, cries out to you: Protect and guard me until my life’s end, O All-praised.

Angels and mortals magnify the Protecting Veil of the All-pure, for it protects and saves all who honour it.

With all our soul let us gather to your godly Protection, immaculate Lady, bringing thankful praise with fervent gratitude, for you have chosen us for your own and you treat us kindly in all things; you guide us and save us from afflictions.

Immaculate Virgin who bore God, save your flock, protecting it with your Protecting Veil and caring for it in every way.

From above, pure Virgin, keep your godly Protection around your people like a rampart with a wealth of loving-kindness; while to me, who have now woven for you songs of praise, give enlightenment and illumination, I implore, and forgiveness of faults.

Second Canon. Heaven was amazed.

Magnify, O my soul, the all-holy Protection of the pure Virgin.

Bending with motherly love, O Maiden, towards your people who fervently hope in you, for you are compassionate, in a strange manner you spiritually unfolded for them your godly Protection like a cloud of light. And so as we proclaim the wealth of your loving-kindness, Mother of God, we magnify you.

Magnify, O my soul, the light-bearing Protection of the only Mother of God.

Your Son, O Immaculate, who of old guided an ungrateful people with a cloud like a pillar, revealed you as a spiritual and living cloud that wondrously protects and saves for a land of incorruption the chosen people, O Pure One, by your ardent presence.

Glory.

Magnify, O my soul, the Godhead without beginning in three Persons.

Raising your hands to God you implore on our behalf the One who came forth from you, and thence, unfolding spiritually your light-bearing Protection, you protected all the faithful. And so, as we celebrate its yearly memorial, Mother of God, we magnify you.

Both now.

Magnify, O my soul, the wonderful mighty deeds of the All-immaculate Maiden.

As we sing the praise of the manifold gifts of your Protection and its unstinted grace, pure Mother, which we unceasingly enjoy, we cry out to you from our souls: As of old you protected your people, so now too protect us with your hand and save us until our life’s end, O Immaculate.

Katavasia, the Irmos of the 1st Canon.

Exapostilarion. As God you adorned.

Your godly Protection, Maiden Mother of God, overshadows the faithful; and protects and guides the Orthodox flock and preserves it unscathed from dangers of every kind.

Another. Same melody.

By your mighty Protection and unsleeping intercession, O Maiden, guard the race of the Orthodox unharmed. For we have all gained you as refuge in troubles.

At Lauds.

We insert 4 stichera, and sing the following Prosomia.

Tone 1. Joy of the heavenly hosts.

The Ever-Virgin Maiden and pure Mother of God, ally and Protection of the attacked, and above all refuge and ready help, let us all praise as is fitting, as we magnify her Protection.

Your all-holy and dazzling Protection, which you unfold each day like a cloud of light, and with which you manifestly protect and cover us, in good fortune and in disasters, as we have learned, O Virgin, with gladness we call blessed.

Of old the queen of cities, O Virgin, escaped from dangers and fearful wars by your divine and wondrous Protection, while today your people by its grace escapes from troubles, disasters and calamities.

How wondrous the grace of your kindness, O Virgin, for your people both of old and now. And so, as we take refuge each day under your revered Protection, we find deliverance from every assault and participation in blessings of every kind.

Glory. Both now. Tone 5.

The gifts of your Protecting Veil, O Mother of God, unfolded in every place like the beams of the sun, bring us graces in countless ways; for they drive out the gloom of diseases, rout the regiments of foes, dispel the fog of unlooked for disasters and grant us lasting peace. But, O Virgin Full of grace, accept our thankful hymns, we beg, and be for us an ally and defender until the ends of the age.

Great Doxology and Dismissal.

At The Liturgy

Typika and Beatitudes, from the 3rd Ode of the 1st Canon and the 6th Ode of the 2nd. Or, if you wish, the following Antiphons.

1ST ANTIPHON

At the prayers of the Mother of God, O Saviour, save us.

At the prayers of the Mother of God, O Saviour, save us.

At the prayers of the Mother of God, O Saviour, save us.

Glory. Both now.

At the prayers of the Mother of God, O Saviour, save us.

2ND ANTIPHON

Son of God, wonderful in the Saints, save us who sing to you: Alleluia.

Son of God, wonderful in the Saints, save us who sing to you: Alleluia.

Son of God, wonderful in the Saints, save us who sing to you: Alleluia.

Glory. Both now.

Only-begotten Son and Word of God…

3RD ANTIPHON

We sing the praise of the graces of your Protecting Veil, O Virgin, which like a light-bearing cloud you unfold beyond understanding, and you spiritually protect your people from every assault of their foe. For we have gained you was Protection and defender and helper, as we cry out to you: Glory to your mighty deeds, O Pure one; glory to your Protection; glory to your providence towards us, O Immaculate!

We sing the praise…

We sing the praise…

Kontakion. Tone 8. To you, my Champion

Like a cloud brightly overshadowing the whole company of the Church, O all-pure, you appeared of old on the royal City. But as the Protection and Champion of your people, protect us from every affliction us as we cry to you: Hail, Protection wholly light.

Prokeimenon. Tone 3.

[Song of the Mother of God. Luke 1]

My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God, my Saviour.

Apostle.

The Reading is from the Epistle of Paul to the Hebrews.

Brethren, now the first tabernacle had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. For a tabernacle was constructed, the first one, in which were the lampstand, the table, and the bread of the Presence; this is called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain was a tabernacle called the Holy of Holies. In it stood the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant overlaid on all sides with gold, in which there were a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; above it were the Cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot speak now in detail. Such preparations having been made, the priests go continually into the first tabernacle to carry out their ritual duties; but only the high priest goes into the second, and he but once a year, and not without taking the blood that he offers for himself and for the sins committed in ignorance by the people.

Angels magnify in hymns the Protection of the Mother, for it protects the choirs of believers in every place.

Let all born of earth bearing torches, in spirit leap for joy; let the nature of the immaterial spirits honour and celebrate the wondrous sacred festival of the Mother of God, and let them cry: Hail, all-blessed Mother of God, pure and Ever-Virgin!

Communion.

I will take the cup of salvation, and I will call on the name of the Lord. Alleluia.

Megalynarion.

You are the Protection of Orthodox Christians, O Virgin, protecting all the faithful. And so your people takes refuge in your Protection, and with faith magnifies your watchful care.

At Vespers

Tone 4. As noblest of Martyrs.

You handled the Master’s side, all-blessed Apostle, and grasped the summit of blessings; for like a sponge you soaked up streams from there, the source of good things and eternal life, and you watered hearts dried up through ignorance of God, as you well up with the doctrines of the knowledge of God.

By your believing unbelief you confirmed believers when you began to speak of him as God and Lord of all creation, he who bore flesh for us who are on earth and who endured the Cross and death and the holes of the nails and who was pierced by a lance in his side, from which we draw life.

Wondrous Thomas opened up the source of doctrines, Master, for the godly; for when he handled your side he was fittingly initiated into the double energy with the two essences, and he cried out: You are my God and Master, you are the Lord of glory, who became flesh for my sake.

As a servant of the Word and of his ineffable incarnation, Apostle Thomas, you drew from the depth of wisdom; for searching with the reed of the Cross, you caught souls from the depth of deception. Therefore you enlightened the whole inhabited world with the net of your doctrines, and made the clouded souls of the Indians bright with the light of knowledge. And so, as you radiantly enjoy Christ’s glory, implore him to have mercy on our souls.

Mother of God, you are the true vine who gave bud to the fruit of life; intercede, we beseech you, Sovereign Lady, with the Apostles and all the saints that he have mercy on our souls.

At the Aposticha, Prosomia.

Tone 4. You have given as a sign.

Christ, the lover of mankind, drew you out like a pearl from the abyss of the confusion of the world, Apostle Thomas, and through you he enriched those who were in doubt and involved in the poverty of dread deeds. And so we call you blessed and glorify with songs of praise you festive memorial, as we devoutly honour you.

Sacred Apostle who looked on God, you made the whole land of the Indians radiant, for you enlightened them all and by the Spirit, wise Saint, you made them children of the light and of the day; you smashed the temples of the idols and by grace you raised up churches to God’s glory and praise, blessed Intercessor for our souls.

With your restless hand, Thomas, you searched God’s side and the wounds of the nails, which he underwent for us, and as you joyfully changed your unbelief to fair belief you cried out: You are my Lord and my God, and I glorify you, lover of mankind, who by your passion pour forth dispassion for believers.

Tone 6. By Anatolios.

You gazed on the divine mysteries of Christ, Apostle Thomas, and mystically you have been declared to be a spiritual mixing bowl, in which the souls of believers rejoice; for with the divine net of the Spirit you drew peoples from the deep of ignorance; therefore you came from Sion as a river of grace, welling up with your inspired doctrines into the whole creation. And so, imitating the passion of Christ, you were pierced in the side and entered the darkness of incorruption; implore him to have mercy on our souls.

Having placed all your hope.

When to mind there comes the thought of the dread judgement seat of your Son, All-pure Virgin, and the universal tribunal, I am in despair, trembling and terrified at the examination of my deeds; for they are all worthless and filled with every kind of shame, and truly worthy of darkness and punishment and rejection. See my distress, and see the abasement of my soul, and deliver me from every constraint and punishment.

Apolytikion. Tone 3.

Holy Apostle Thomas, intercede with the merciful God to grant our souls forgiveness of sins.

At Matins

The usual reading from the Psalter. After the 3rd reading, Kathisma.

Tone 5. Let us believers praise.

Let us all praise the Apostle and Disciple of Christ with hymns on his commemoration; for in a manner fitting God he has confirmed our minds in the Lord, having handled the marks of the nails as he sought firm belief, and he intercedes unrelentingly that he have mercy on our souls.

Implore the God and Lord who was incarnate of you, Holy Lady, for the sake of us who were corrupted by sins, to take pity on us and to turn away his anger and rage from those who cry out with faith and unceasingly praise the mighty deeds of his grace.

Then the Canons of the Oktoichos and the following of the Apostle, of which the Acrostic is.

I marvel at Thomas, filled with marvels.

A composition by Theophanes.

Ode 1. Tone 4.

Implore the Son of God without beginning, the Word of God, who appeared on earth in form like us, whom you saw, glorious Apostle, and whose hands and side you handled with your palm, to save your servants.

My God, Jesus, who knows what is hidden, and who tests minds and examines hearts, made you, all-blessed Thomas, a servant and witness and godly Apostle of his theophany.

A river of mystic waters you have been declared, Thomas, watering the face of the earth and the body of the Church with streams of the knowledge of God, and by the surge of the Spirit driving away the deception of belief in many gods.

Theotokion.

You are the overthrower of death and corruption, All-hymned Mother of God, for you bore Christ the source of incorruption, who made human nature lovely with grace of immortality, O all-blameless.

Ode 3. Let us not boast.

Virtue’s beauty and wonders adorning you, Apostle who saw God, you shone on the ugliness of the Indians with the divine light and made their darkness bright with faith.

Set aflame by the splendour, by the action of the Spirit, you were sent out, inspired Thomas, like a shaft of divine light and enlightened the world with wonders.

Like the swiftness of passing lightning, Apostle Thomas, initiated into the doctrines of divine wisdom, you have made radiant the ends of the earth.

Theotokion.

Virgin who did not know wedlock and who bore God incarnate, establish me, who am battered by the assaults of the passions; for there is no help but yours, O Immaculate.

The Irmos.

Let us not boast in wisdom and power and wealth, but in you, O Christ, the empersonned wisdom of God the Father. For none is holy but you, O Lover of mankind.

Kathisma. Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

Catching in the net of the divine words spiritual fish, you offered them as firstfruits to our God; and being granted to put on the support of Christ, you have been revealed as an imitator of his passion; therefore we have assembled and honour as is fitting, glorious Apostle, your all-festive memory, and with one voice we cry to you: Intercede with Christ God to bestow forgiveness of faults on those who celebrate with love your holy memory.

Let us hymn the heavenly gate and ark, the all-holy mountain, the cloud of light, the bush unburned, the spiritual Paradise, the ransom of Eve, the great foundation of the whole inhabited world; because in her salvation was wrought for the world and forgiveness of ancient offences; and so we cry to her: Intercede with your Son and God to bestow forgiveness of faults on those who devoutly worship your all-holy child-bearing.

Ode 4. The One seated in glory.

Using the greatest proof of marvels, and radiantly displaying the glory of divine doctrines, you grasped by your preaching the whole inhabited world, which cries out: Glory, O Christ, to your power!

Thomas, blessed and all-honoured, we praise you as an eye-witness and zealous servant of the Word, a witness of his glory and majesty, as a faithful steward and Apostle.

O blessed and all-revered Thomas, fixing a corner-stone as base, you constructed for those who believe as it were a bridal chamber and heavenly tabernacle.

Theotokion.

We name the all-holy Virgin earth unploughed, which produced the ear of life, light cloud, source of the rain which gives life, as we cry out: Glory, O Christ, to your power!

Ode 5.

Apostle, made radiant by Christ’s glory and having handled his life-giving side, you drew on an unfathomable abyss of blessing and enriched the world.

At your first entrance Thomas was not present and did not believe the Disciples; but afterwards, brought to belief, he cried out with joy: Most merciful, I proclaim you God and Lord!

With spiritual thunder Thomas, the living heaven of your glory, cried out, proclaiming you, O Christ, to be both God and Lord and he preached you reverently.

Theotokion.

Make my mind a victor over the passions, O all-blameless, and subdue their assaults by reason, Bride of God, who gave birth to the Saviour of our souls [who gave birth to eternal dispassion].

Ode 6. I will sacrifice to you.

Your unbelief, blessed Thomas, heals the soul-destroying unbelief of all; for you indisputably investigated the holes of the nails and the lance.

Like a sharpened arrow, O Christ, as a man of power, you loosed the Apostle into the hearts of the foe, O Giver of life, and he brought you the plunder of their spoils.

Lord of mercy, you destroyed idolatrous sacrifices by your being slaughtered on a tree and by the holy slaughter of your inspired Apostles, as they imitated your sufferings.

Theotokion.

O marvel, newer than all marvels! For a Virgin conceives in her womb without knowing man him who cherishes the universe and she is not straitened.

The Irmos.

I will sacrifice to you with a voice of praise, O Lord, the Church cries to you, cleansed from the gore of demons by the Blood which flowed through pity from your side.

Kontakion. Tone 4.

Today you have appeared.

Filled with God’s grace, Christ’s Apostle and true servant cried in repentance, ‘You are my God and Lord!’

The Ikos.

When Peter said to the inspired Thomas, Christ’s Disciple and great speaker of mysteries, ‘We have seen the Lord’, he said, ,If I do not see in his hands the mark of the nails, and handle his side, I will not believe’. But the Creator and Master of all things came as a slave, wishing to save all, and said to Thomas, ‘Handle the marks in my hands and side, and do not be unbelieving; for I am the Lord your God’. But he cried in repentance, ‘You are my God and Lord’.

Synaxarion

On the 6th of the same month, commemoration of the holy Apostle Thomas.

Verses.

Thomas once sought to thrust his hand, O Word,

Into your side: for you his side is pierced.

Thomas with spears from afar was stabbed on the sixth of October.

He preached the word of God to Medes and Parthians, Persians and Indians; he was imprisoned by King Smidaios, because through him his son Azanes, his wife Tertia and his daughters Migdonia and Narka had believed and been baptised. And so he was handed over to five soldiers, who took him up a mountain and ran him through with lances; and so he departed to the Lord.

From his journeys [which occupy five pages of small print in the Menaion].

On the same day, commemoration of the holy Martyr, Eroiпs.

Verses.

Virgin Erotiпs they burn with fire

Who was on fire with the love of Christ.

The holy new Monk Martyr Makarios, from Kios in Bithynia, was martyred at Prousi. He was stoned and finally slain with the sword in 1590.

At their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Ode 7.

Dancing joyfully as an Apostle with the choir above in heaven, gladly you sing, blessed saint: Blessed are you, Lord, in the temple of your glory.

From end to end of the world your sound has sped, and the utterance of divine words has taught those who cry: Blessed are you, Lord, in the temple of your glory.

You became a temple of the Trinity, all-honoured Apostle; therefore you wiped out the temples and altars of idols, while you raised temples for the praise and worship of Christ God.

Theotokion.

Through your giving birth we have been delivered from the slavery of the law; for without knowing man, O Mother of God, you bore for us a liberator. Blessed are you among women, O all-blameless.

Ode 8. The Offspring of the Mother of God.

Companion of God in the flesh, you were seen to have abandoned the flesh; while you were enriched with deification above the world, made divine by your nearness to God and crying: Praise the Lord, and highly exalt him to all the ages.

Close knit with God by love, you longed for death with him, blessed Apostle, when you called out to your fellow Apostles: Let us go, and let us accept death with him, as we cry: Praise the Lord, and highly exalt him to all the ages.

As clouds of heavenly rain, O Christ, you revealed your Apostles, overflowing with showers of divine knowledge, and watering the Churches, and crying: Praise the Lord, and highly exalt him to all the ages.

Theotokion.

Pure of spot and blemish, and a sacred enclosure of all holiness, you bore the all-holy Word, who hallows all, with the Father without beginning; and so we praise you, O Virgin, and highly exalt you to all the ages.

The Irmos.

The Offspring of the Mother of God saved the innocent Youths in the furnace. Then he was prefigured, but now in reality he gathers the whole world which sings: All you works praise the Lord, and highly exalt him to all the ages.

Ode 9. A Stone not cut.

You were revealed as a light-bearing chariot, glorious Apostle, carrying with your obedient and god-bearing soul the Word seated upon it, as he drives towards salvation those who hymn you.

As we celebrate your all-blessed memorial, we implore that we may be delivered from every storm by the mediation of the confidence which you have as Christ’s Apostle, O all-honoured eye-witness of God.

We all celebrate your memory to-day, Apostle Thomas; enlighten, hallow us with faith, ever rescuing us from trials and dangers and sufferings by your prayers.

Theotokion.

You appeared as a Mother, bride of God, and an all-spotless Virgin; for you joined in one virginity and child-bearing, immaculate Lady, in giving birth to the Maker and Lord of all creation.

The Irmos.

A Stone not cut by human hand was cut from you, O Virgin, unhewn mountain: Christ the head of the corner, who joined together the natures that were parted; and so with joy, Mother of God, we magnify you.

Exapostilarion. Women hear.

Eyewitness and Apostle of Christ the all-pitying, grant peace to the whole inhabited world, victories to our Christ-loving Sovereign, ask forgiveness of faults and salvation for us who praise you, Thomas, as an inspired disciple.

Another.

Christ, the great Sun, sent you as a beam radiant with light to India, as an initiate dispelling utterly the fog of error, O wise Apostle Thomas, and enlightening the peoples to honour the divine Trinity, by which we are all guarded.

Theotokion.

All-blameless Mother of God, the great rampart of the Apostles, Martyrs, Prophets and Saints, make your Son and Lord merciful to us your servants, Mother of God, when he takes his seat to judge each as they deserve.

At Lauds we insert 6 stichera, and we sing the three following Idiomels, doubling the first.

Tone 2. By Anatolios.

You followed Christ, Apostle Thomas, and you despised the world, and hiding his teachings in your store, you were revealed as an Apostle; therefore among the nations you enlightened their souls, darkened by the error and the passions, with the commandments of the Saviour, to believe in the consubstantial Trinity.

Twice.

Tone 4.

Made radiant in soul by the divine fire of knowledge, you became in all things an imitator of the Master, as an outstanding Disciple, Apostle Thomas; for with the rod of the Cross you caught souls of the devout from the deep of ignorance. Therefore too you netted with the hook of the divine Spirit the beclouded mind of the Indians. Ever beseech Christ God to deliver us also from the darkened sight of the foe and to save our souls.

The same tone.

Leaving behind the deep of fishing, by faith you advanced with the rod of the Cross and caught all with it, Apostle Thomas; and so having handled the side of the Word with your hand, you were found worthy to explore with your finger the holes of the piercing nails. Intercede insistently with Christ God that our souls may be saved.

You gazed on the divine mysteries of Christ, Apostle Thomas, and mystically you have been declared to be a spiritual mixing bowl, in which the souls of believers rejoice; for with the divine net of the Spirit you drew peoples from the deep of ignorance; therefore you came from Sion as a river of grace, welling up with your inspired doctrines into the whole creation. And so, imitating the passion of Christ, you were pierced in the side and entered the darkness of incorruption; implore him to have mercy on our souls.

Mother of God, you are the true vine who gave bud to the fruit of life; intercede, we beseech you, Sovereign Lady, with the Apostles and all the saints that he have mercy on our souls.

Great Doxology and Dismissal.

At the Liturgy, the Typika and rest as usual.

Note that on the 11th of this month, if it falls on Sunday, or on the first Sunday following it, we sing the Office of the Holy Fathers of the 7th Ecumenical Council.

At Vespers

Tone 6

The Patriarch Germanos the Younger collected together in one Canon the seven Councils of the Fathers, which had taken place at different times, excellently writing together and strengthening their teachings; he also presents them to the Lord as unsleeping advocates of salvation and fellow-shepherds of the flock.

The letter of the Law laid down for the children of the Hebrews that the heptad was to be honoured, and they devoted themselves to a shadow and reverenced it. But you, O Fathers, came together in a heptad of Councils, at the behest of God, who fashioned the universe in a hexad of days and blessed the seventh, and you made the heptad even more honourable by laying down a definition of the Faith.

Thrice-blessed Fathers, you have handed down that the Trinity is the cause of the birth of the world for all things that are created; for with mystic reason you established three and four Councils, and you appeared as champions of orthodox reason, for you showed that while there are four elements, it is the Trinity which created them and made the world.

It would have been sufficient for the Prophet Elisaius to have bent over once at most to breathe life into the child that lay dead; nevertheless he bent over seven times and lay right over him, thus like a scout he foretold your comings together, by which you breathed life into the slaying of God the Word, by putting to death Arius and his boon companions.

Revered Fathers, with wisdom you sewed together the torn garment of Christ, rent asunder by baying hounds, for you could not bear to look on his nakedness, as Sem and Japhet of old could not on their father’s, and you put the parricide to shame along with his supporters: Arius, whose name the madness bears.

As true shepherds you bravely drove away the Macedioniusses, the Nestoriusses, the Eftychisses, the Dioscorusses, Apollinariusses and Sabellioseverusses, exposed as dangerous wolves in sheepskins, far from the Saviour’s flock stripped of their fleeces, making them thrice-wretched; therefore we call you blessed.

Let us praise to-day the mystical trumpets of the Spirit, the Godbearing Fathers, who sang a harmonious melody of theology in the midst of the Church, one Trinity, unchanging Essence and Godhead; the overthrowers of Arius, the champions of the Orthodox, who ever intercede with the Lord that he may have mercy on our souls.

The Reading is from Genesis.

Now when Abram heard that Lot his nephew had been taken captive, he numbered his own home-born servants three hundred and eighteen, and pursued the enemy as far as Dan. And he fell upon them by night, he and his servants, and smote them and pursued them as far as Chobal, which is on the left of Damascus. And he brought back all the cavalry of Sodom, and he brought back Lot his nephew and all his goods and the women and the people. And the king of Sodom came out to meet him, after his return from the slaughter of Chodologomor and the kings with him, to the valley of Sabi; this was the plain of Kings. And Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought out bread and wine; he was Priest of the Most High. And he blessed Abram and said: Blessed is Abram by the most high God, who created the heaven and the earth. And blessed is the most high God, who has delivered your enemies into your hand.

The Reading from Deuteronomy.

Moses said to the sons of Israel: See, I have delivered the land before you; go in and inherit the land which I swore to your fathers, to Abraham and to Isaac and to Jacob, to give it to them and to their seed after them. And I spoke to you at that time saying: I alone shall not be able to bear you. The Lord your God has multiplied you, and behold, you are to-day as the stars of heaven in multitude. May the Lord the God of our fathers multiply you a thousand times more than you are, and bless you as he has spoken to you. And I took from you wise and understanding and prudent men, and I set them to rule over you, captains of thousands and hundreds and fifties and tens and recorders for your judges. And I commanded your judges at that time, saying: Hear cases between your brethren, and judge rightly between a man and his brother and the stranger who is with him. You shall not have respect to persons in judging. You shall hear the small as well as the great. You shall not shrink before any man’s person; for the judgement is God’s.

The Reading from Deuteronomy.

Moses said to the sons of Israel: Behold the heaven and the highest heaven belong to the Lord your God, the earth and all that is in it. the Lord preferred your fathers, to love them: and he chose their seed after them, you above all nations, as it is at this day. So circumcise the hardness of your heart and stiffen your neck no longer. For the Lord your God is God of Gods and the Lord of Lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality, who takes no bribe. He executes judgement for the stranger, the orphan and the widow; and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing. You shall fear the Lord your God and serve him, and to him you shall hold fast, and take oaths in his name. He is your boast, he your God, who has done for you the great and wonderful things which your eyes have seen.

At the Liti, the usual.

Holy Fathers, you have become sure guardians of the Apostolic traditions; for by teaching the orthodox doctrine of the consubstantiality of the Holy Trinity, you overthrew in Council the blasphemy of Arius. With him you refuted Macedonius, the opponent of the Spirit, and condemned Nestorius, Eftychis and Dioscorus, Sabellius and Severus the Leaderless. We implore you: beg that we who have been delivered from their error may preserve our life spotless in the faith.

Mother of God, the protection of all who ask, in you we trust, in you we boast, in you is all our hope. Intercede with him who was born from you on behalf of your unprofitable servants.

At the Aposticha, from the Oktoichos.

Let us with faith celebrate to-day the yearly commemoration of the god-bearing Fathers, who were assembled from the whole world in the radiant city of Nicaea, as we reverence the gatherings of the Orthodox; for they, their minds attuned to true religion, overthrew the godless teaching of Arius, and in council banished him from the Catholic Church; and in the Symbol of faith, which they precisely and devoutly laid down, they taught all to confess clearly the Son of God as consubstantial and co-eternal, and existing before the ages. And so we too, following their divine teachings and firm in our belief, worship the Son and the all-holy Spirit with the Father, in one Godhead, a consubstantial Trinity.

Assent to the entreaties of your servants, All-blameless one, putting an end to the uprisings of dangers for us and rescuing us from every trouble; for we have you as our only safe and sure anchor, and we have gained you as protection. May we who call upon you, Sovereign Lady, not be put to shame; hasten at the entreaty of those who cry out to you with faith: Hail, Sovereign Lady help of all, joy and shelter and salvation of our souls.

Resurrection Apolytikion.

You are glorified above all, Christ our God, who established our Fathers as beacons on the earth, and through them guided us all to the true faith. O greatly compassionate one, glory to you!

You were born for us from a Virgin and endured crucifixion, Good Lord; by your death you despoiled death, and revealed resurrection as God; do not despise those whom you fashioned with your own hand; show your love for mankind, O Merciful; accept the Mother of God who bore you, as she intercedes for us, and save, O Saviour, a people in despair.

And Dismissal.

At Matins

The usual Reading from the Psalter; but instead of Psalm 118 we say the Polyeleos [not in the Athonite Typica]. The Resurrection Kathismata and the rest likewise as usual.

Then the Canons of the Oktoichos [to 8], and of the Holy Fathers to 6.

The Canon of the Saints, whose Acrostic is:

I sing the seventh synod of the blest.

A composition of Theophanes.

Ode 1. Tone 8.

Theotokion.

Ode 3.

Theotokion.

Kathisma. Tone 4.

Most blessed Fathers, inspired by God, you were shown to the world as truly brilliant beacons for the world, by melting like wax the heresies of the blasphemous prattlers, quenching the burning confusions of the slanderers.

Come speedily to help us, pure Virgin Mother; deliver us from enemies who blaspheme you and do not worship you; shatter all the idle prattling of the heresies; let them know that you alone are Mother of God, who save the Orthodox by your intercessions.

Ode 4.

Vaunting a youthful brashness, and burning with God’s zeal, the assembled Fathers, like Elias, put to death the priests of shame; therefore with boldness they firmly taught the worship of Christ’s image.

Theotokion.

Ever pure, you are my hope, and you are my song, you are my harbour and you are my pilotage, you who without union bore God incarnate, the Word of the Father; therefore without doubting, empowered with your strength, I venerate your image.

Ode 5.

Now the revered Fathers, having deliberated together with lofty thought, have condemned the Iconoclasts as thinkers of strange thoughts; and decreed, as is fitting, that honour be paid to Christ’s image.

The time of joy is now, the day of salvation has newly appeared; let us therefore rejoice and joyfully cry out to Christ: Give us your peace, at the prayers of the Fathers of the Seventh Council, O Lover of mankind.

Ode 6.

Iweetness and rejoicing the mountains have rained down; for the multitude of heretics has been scattered, which exuded bitter poison: the rejection of the holy images.

Theotokion.

New birth He gave me, the Son, of old of the Father without mother, and divinely born of a Mother without father; therefore making an image I greet the one who gave birth together with the One who was born.

Kontakion. Tone 2.

The Son who shone ineffably from the Father, was born twofold in nature from a woman; knowing Him we do not deny the representation of his form; but depicting it devoutly, we honour it faithfully; and so, holding to the true faith, the Church greets the image of Christ’s incarnation.

The Ikos

The all-merciful God, wishing to rouse us always to the perfect memory of his incarnation, has delivered to us this notion: the depiction of his honoured form through the painting of images; that seeing it with our sight we may believe what we have heard in speech; as we recognise the action, name, appearance and struggles of the holy men, and Christ the prize-giver who gives crowns of victory to the Holy Athletes and Martyrs; through whom the Church lately more clearly holding to the true faith, greets the image of Christ’s incarnation.

After the Synaxarion of the day

On the same day we celebrate the memory of the Holy and blest Fathers, who assembled for a second time in Nicea in the reign of the devout and Christ-loving Sovereigns Constantine and Irene, against those who claimed, impiously, ignorantly and unthinkingly that God’s Church worshipped idols and who cast down the revered and holy images.

Verses

The Champions with the weapons of your words,

O Word, the foes of honoured icons trounced.

This holy, seventh Ecumenical Council took place in Nicea a second time, in the reign of the Emperor Constantine and his mother Irene, when Hadrian was Pope of Rome, Tarasios Patriarch of Constantinople, Politianos of Alexandria, Theodoret of Antioch and Elias of Jerusalem. Three hundred and sixty five Holy Fathers were assembled. They all assembled against the Iconoclasts, and they condemned in writing every heresy, the leaders of the heresies and then all the Iconoclasts; placing on record and decreeing that anyone who does not venerate the holy images is a stranger to the Orthodox faith; that the honour given to the image passes to its prototype; and that whoever worships and honours the image, worships the person of the one depicted therein. And so when they had thus decreed and had strengthened the Orthodox faith, each one returned to his own See.

Through the prayers of the Holy Fathers, O God, have mercy upon us.

Ode 7.

Overthrown are the leaders of heresy by the teachings of the inspired men, who rightly transfer the honour given to the types to their archetypes, as Basil the Great said: Blessed is the God of our Fathers.

Decorated now with shining images the churches are made beautiful; and so the world, through the churches, sings to the beauty far above all mortals, together with those who sing: Blessed is the God of our Fathers.

Out of the way you impious, the light has dawned, the darkness is far off; and so all things filled with light sing the praise of Christ in good heart and say: Blessed is the God of our Fathers.

Theotokion.

For all the only hope of salvation, the all-pure Sovereign Lady, who awe-inspiringly gave birth to Christ the King of kings, bearing him as an infant in her arms, is venerated together with him in painting, as the Fathers say.

Ode 8.

The assembly of the Fathers excellently decreed, for those who honour God, a relative worship and the re-erection of the sacred image of Christ; but we lovers of true religion, as obedient children, celebrate their yearly memorial, and with longing we kiss Christ’s image.

Now fiercely the arrogant bowed the humble down, and repulsed the attacks of the lovers of virtue, because they opposed their inspired deeds; but the Fathers of the Seventh Council, assembled in Nicea, at once brought down their pride far more fiercely.

Even as the Psalmist said, the blows and lashes of those who think like infants become infants’ arrows for those who think like the old; and by God’s power many tongues of those who speak blasphemies against the Highest become feeble; and each one acknowledges the Father, the Son and the Spirit, one God, only cause of all things.

Theotokion.

Ode 9.

Lord most mighty and King of all, great in might and counsel, who hold the universe in being, incomprehensible, alone God, strengthen the Church, protecting her by your orthodoxy, at the entreaties of the all-glorious Fathers, who have condemned false doctrine.

Even on earth, O Saints, whose minds were in heaven, you were found worthy of great honours, for you gave Christ’s image a relative honour; and now having laid aside the shadow and the covering of the flesh, you see him in person face to face, and are found worthy of yet greater things.

So that we might be chastened you provoked an assault by barbaric cavalry with all their host, do you shatter it yourself and their violence against us; and fight with the King who has shown his trust in you, who achieve all things, at the confident prayers of the Fathers whose memory we celebrate.

Theotokion.

The mystery of your awe-inspiring child-bearing no mortal mind can fathom; but no more than can the lofty mind of Angels that above nature you gave birth to God incarnate; therefore, acknowledging you as Mother of God and depicting you with him, we magnify you.

Exapostilarion.

O Fathers with minds in heaven, who were gathered in the Seventh Council, offer an insistent supplication to the Trinity that those who sing the praise of your divine assembly may be delivered from every heresy and eternal punishment and may reach the Kingdom.

Theotokion.

O Lord supremely good, at the prayers of your Mother and of the Fathers gathered in the seven Councils, establish the Church and strengthen the Faith; and make all sharers in the Kingdom of heaven, when you come on earth to judge all creation.

At Lauds we sing 4 Stichera of the Resurrection and 3, Prosomia, of the Fathers, doubling the first.

Tone 6.

Having welded together all spiritual knowledge, and having examined together by the Divine Spirit the heavenly and revered Creed, the revered Fathers, under God’s inspiration, traced it out. In it, clearly following the teachings of the Apostles, they most distinctly teach that the Word is without beginning with his Begetter and most surely consubstantial. Renowned they are, truly all-blessed and godly-minded.

Having received the spiritual brilliance of the Holy Spirit, and divinely inspired, the good heralds proclaimed the supernatural oracle, brief in words, but rich in meaning; the blest defenders of Gospel teachings and the godly traditions, whose revelation they clearly received from on high, and, enlightened, set forth the Faith taught them by God.

Having collected together all their skill as shepherds, and stirred up their most just anger, the godly Shepherds, as Christ’s truest servants, the most sacred initiates of the inspired proclamation, most justly drove off the fierce and ravening wolves with the sling of the Spirit, having cast as from a sling from the body of the Church those fallen as though sick of a deadly and incurable sickness.

The choir of holy Fathers, having hurried together from the ends of the whole world, proclaimed the doctrine of the one being and nature of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and clearly delivered to the Church the mystery of the godhead. Praising them with faith, let us call them blessed as we say: O godly host, inspired warriors of the Lord’s battle-line, brightly shining stars of the spiritual firmament, impregnable towers of the mystical Sion, sweet-scented flowers of Paradise, pure golden mouths of the Word, Nicea’s boast, the whole world’s ornament, intercede insistently on behalf of our souls.

Both now. You are most blessed.

Great Doxology and Dismissal.

At the Liturgy, Typika and Beatitudes of the Tone and from the [3rd] and 6th Odes of the Canon of the Fathers.

Communion.

The just will be held in eternal memory.

At Vespers

Tone 8. What may we call you.

What may I name you, Apostle? Heaven, for you declared the glory of God. Lightning, for you irradiate the world by your illumination. Cloud, that rains down divine streams. Mixing-bowl overflowing with the inspired wine of wisdom, wine that makes hearts glad. Intercede that our souls may be saved.

How may I now address you, O inspired by God? River, coming forth from Paradise for us. Ark of the covenant which Christ laid down. Beacon, blazing with spiritual light. Lamp, that irradiates the Church. Bread of life, divine table, cup of divine drink. Intercede that our souls may be saved.

What may we now call you, who saw God? Most active minister of the mysteries of Christ. Wise architect of the spiritual tabernacle, who carve out the tables of grace, having written down the new law which comes forth from Sion and is proclaimed through you. Intercede that our souls may be saved.

What may we now call you, glorious Saint? Safe treasury of the gifts of heaven’s grace. Skilled physician of both souls and bodies. Paul’s co-worker and companion of his journeys, who set down the Acts of the Apostles. Virtue, Luke, has made for you many names. Intercede that our souls may be saved.

What titles may I address you by, Inspired of God? Disciple, for you to us you proclaimed the good tidings: Christ. Physician, for you heal the passions of our souls. Lamp, blazing with spiritual light. Base and foundation of the faith, for it was you who traced out for us the all-revered Gospel. Intercede that our souls may be saved.

How may I now address you, wondrous Saint? Unerring contemplator of wisdom’s teachings. Active writer of the teaching of the Apostles and unshakeable pillar of true religion, or indestructible tower of the Church. Many are you achievements and greater your graces. Intercede that our souls may be saved.