Year: 2014

The righteous Joachim and Anna were childless for fifty years of their married life. In their old age the Archangel Gabriel appeared to each one of them separately, telling them that God had heard their prayers and that they would give birth to a daughter, Mary. Then St. Anna conceived by her husband and after nine months bore a daughter blessed by God and by all generations of men: the Most-holy Virgin Mary, the Theotokos. (Prologue of Ohrid)

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GREAT VESPERS FOR ALL-NIGHT VIGIL

 

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man…” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 4

8. The barren Anna leaped for joy
when she gave birth to Mary the Virgin
who in turn will give birth in the flesh to God the Word.
Overflowing with happiness, she cried out:
Rejoice with me, all tribes of Israel,
for I have conceived and put aside my burden of childlessness
as the Creator has deigned.
He heard my prayer and healed the pains of my yearning heart.

7. The barren Anna leaped for joy
when she gave birth to Mary the Virgin
who in turn will give birth in the flesh to God the Word.
Overflowing with happiness, she cried out:
Rejoice with me, all tribes of Israel,
for I have conceived and put aside my burden of childlessness
as the Creator has deigned.
He heard my prayer and healed the pains of my yearning heart.

6. The barren Anna leaped for joy
when she gave birth to Mary the Virgin
who in turn will give birth in the flesh to God the Word.
Overflowing with happiness, she cried out:
Rejoice with me, all tribes of Israel,
for I have conceived and put aside my burden of childlessness
as the Creator has deigned.
He heard my prayer and healed the pains of my yearning heart.

5. O Anna, the One who made waters gush forth from a rock
bestows as a fruit of your womb, the ever-Virgin Lady.
Through her, our salvation will come.
Because of this you were delivered from shame.
No longer will you be on earth as a fruitless soil,
for you have produced an earth
which will bring forth the Tree of Life.
According to His will, He delivered mankind from all shame
when He became man out of His compassionate mercy.

4. O Anna, the One who made waters gush forth from a rock
bestows as a fruit of your womb, the ever-Virgin Lady.
Through her, our salvation will come.
Because of this you were delivered from shame.
No longer will you be on earth as a fruitless soil,
for you have produced an earth
which will bring forth the Tree of Life.
According to His will, He delivered mankind from all shame
when He became man out of His compassionate mercy.

3. O Anna, the One who made waters gush forth from a rock
bestows as a fruit of your womb, the ever-Virgin Lady.
Through her, our salvation will come.
Because of this you were delivered from shame.
No longer will you be on earth as a fruitless soil,
for you have produced an earth
which will bring forth the Tree of Life.
According to His will, He delivered mankind from all shame
when He became man out of His compassionate mercy.

2. The sayings of the prophets are now being fulfilled:
the holy mountain is planted in the womb;
the divine ladder is set up;
the throne of the great king is ready;
the God-inspired city is being adorned.
The unburnable bush is beginning to bud forth,
and the treasure house of grace is overflowing.
It is spreading over the rivers of unfruitfulness of the God-wise Anna
whom we glorify.

1. The sayings of the prophets are now being fulfilled:
the holy mountain is planted in the womb;
the divine ladder is set up;
the throne of the great king is ready;
the God-inspired city is being adorned.
The unburnable bush is beginning to bud forth,
and the treasure house of grace is overflowing.
It is spreading over the rivers of unfruitfulness of the God-wise Anna
whom we glorify.

In Tone 2, Glory…

Today the mystery which has been announced from eternity,
whose depth angels and men cannot measure,
appears in the arms of Anna.
Mary, the maiden of God is prepared
to be the dwelling of the Kings of the ages
who will renew our human nature.
Let us entreat her with a pure heart and say:
Since you are the intercessor for all Christians,
implore your Son and God to save our souls.

Now…

O Virgin, the shadow of the Law passed away
with the realization of grace.
For as the bush had burned without being consumed,
so you gave birth while a virgin
and you remained a virgin.
Instead of the pillar of fire there rose the Sun of Justice.
Instead of Moses, Christ God came forth,
the Saviour of our souls.

 

Readings
Genesis 28:10-17; Ezekiel 43:27-44:4; Proverbs 9:1-11

 

Litiya

In Tone 1

It is fitting that the Queen of heaven and earth,
who is more precious than the Cherubim,
and incomparably more glorious than the Seraphim,
be conceived and remain immaculate as the angels,
so that they who are servants of the Lord
can boast of their own Queen, the Mother of God.
Glory and praise to the Lord who willed it so,
the Creator of all things.

It is fitting that the unique and chosen woman
be conceived without sin,
and the power of Satan is now taken away;
for the Mother of God will never bow before him.
Glory and praise to the Lord who willed it so,
the Creator of all things.

It is fitting that the Second Eve
be created and remain without sin
in the manner of the Second Adam;
for the rebirth of mankind now takes place,
just as the fall came through the first Adam and the first Eve.
Christ has renewed all through his new birth,
and it was Mary that gave birth to Him.
Glory and praise to the Lord who willed it so,
the Creator of all things.

Glory… Now…

Before the nativity of the Son of God,
it was fitting for the Father
to bestow the most pure conception upon the Mother of God,
who is betrothed of the Holy Spirit,
that she might be filled with heavenly gifts
in a manner beyond all other creatures.
Glory and praise to the Lord who willed it so,
the Creator of all things.

 

Aposticha

In Tone 5

Anna, whose name means divine grace,
once cried out in her prayer, asking for a child.
She invoked the God and Creator of all, saying:
Lord of Hosts, You know what shame it is to be barren.
Heal the pains of my heart.
Make my fruitless womb fruitful
so that we may offer to You the child who is born as a gift,
and that with one mind,
we may bless, praise, and glorify Your love
through which the world obtains great mercy.

The Lord swore an oath to David; He will not go back on His word.

Anna was praying with great fervour, beseeching the Lord for a child,
when she heard the voice of an angel
who told her that God had granted her wish, saying plainly:
Do not doubt, for your prayer has reached the Lord.
Wipe away your tears,
for you shall be an olive tree bringing forth a beautiful branch.
You will bring forth the Virgin
from whom will blossom the flower, Christ-in-the-flesh,
who will grant great mercy to the world.

A Son, the fruit of your body, will I set upon your throne.

Joachim and Anna, the righteous couple,
gave birth to the precious heavenly fruit, the ewe-lamb,
who in turn will give birth in a manner beyond understanding
to the Lamb of God who is to be sacrificed for all.
Because of this, they offer to the Lord
an unceasing and humble hymn of praise.
Let us, therefore, praise them with fervour.
And let us joyfully celebrate the birth of the One who was born of them,
Mary, the Mother of God;
because through her, great mercy is granted to all of us.

In Tone 2, Glory… Now…

On this day the royal purple appears,
descending from the root of David.
The mystical flower of Jesse buds forth;
from her shall blossom Christ our God,
the Saviour of our souls.

Troparia

In Tone 4

Today the chains of barrenness are shattered,* for having heard the prayer of Joachim and Anna,* against all hope God has openly promised* the birth of the Maiden of God,* from whom the very Infinite One will be born as a man,* the One who commanded the angels to cry to her:** Rejoice, O full of grace, the Lord is with you. (2)

In Tone 1

Rejoice, Virgin Mary, Mother of God, full of grace!* The Lord is with you.* Blessed are you among women,* and blessed is the fruit of your womb.* For you have given birth to Christ, the Deliverer and Saviour of our souls.

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 4: Today the chains of barrenness are shattered,* for having heard the prayer of Joachim and Anna,* against all hope God has openly promised the birth of the Maiden of God,* from whom the very infinite One will be born as a man,* the One who commanded the angels to cry to her:* rejoice, O full of grace, the Lord is with you.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 4: Today the whole world celebrates* the conception by Anna,* which was brought about by God Himself,* for she has ineffably borne the one who will bear the Word.

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
God is wonderful in His saints,* the God of Israel.
verse: In the churches bless God, the Lord from the fountains of Israel. (Psalm 67:36,27)

Epistle
Galatians 4:22-31

Alleluia, Tone 1
verse: The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their protector in time of trouble.
verse: The Lord will help them and rescue them; He will deliver them from sinners and save them, for they hoped in Him. (Psalm 36:39,40)

Gospel
Luke 8:16-21

Hymn to the Mother of God
O my soul, magnify the glorious conception of the Mother of God.
and the Irmos, Tone 1: Let us the faithful magnify the Mother of God,* wellspring ever-flowing and life-receiving,* the light-bearing lamp of grace,* the living temple and tabernacle all pure,* even more spacious than heaven and earth.

Communion Hymn
Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1)

This great holy father of the Orthodox Church was of eminent birth. His father was the imperial deputy of Gaul and Spain and was a pagan by faith, but his mother was a Christian. While he was still in the cradle, a swarm of bees settled on him, poured honey onto his lips, and flew away. And while still a child, he extended his hand and spoke prophetically: “Kiss it, for I will be a bishop.” After his father’s death, the emperor appointed him as his representative in the province of Liguria, of which Milan was the chief city. When the bishop of Milan died, a great dispute arose between the Orthodox Christians and the Arian heretics concerning the election of a new bishop. Ambrose entered the church to maintain order, this being his duty. At that moment, a child at its mother’s bosom exclaimed: “Ambrose for bishop!” All the people took this as the voice of God, and unanimously elected Ambrose as their bishop, contrary to his will. Ambrose was baptized, passed through all the necessary ranks and was consecrated to the episcopacy, all within a week. As bishop, Ambrose strengthened the Orthodox Faith, suppressed the heretics, adorned churches, spread the Faith among the pagans, wrote many instructive books, and served as an example of a true Christian and a true Christian shepherd. He composed the famous hymn “We Praise Thee, O God.” This glorious hierarch, whom men visited from distant lands for his wisdom and sweetness of words, was very restrained, diligent and vigilant. He slept very little, labored and prayed constantly, and fasted every day except Saturday and Sunday. Therefore, God allowed him to witness many of His miracles and to perform miracles himself. He discovered the relics of the Holy Martyrs Protasius, Gervasius, Nazarius and Celsus (October 14). Meek toward lesser men, he was fearless before the great. He reproached Empress Justina as a heretic, cursed Maximus the tyrant and murderer, and forbade Emperor Theodosius to enter a church until he had repented of his sin. He also refused to meet with Eugenius, the tyrannical and self-styled emperor. God granted this man, so pleasing to Him, such grace that he even raised the dead, drove out demons from men, healed the sick of every infirmity, and foresaw the future. Ambrose died peacefully on the morning of Pascha in the year 397. (Prologue of Ohrid)

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GREAT VESPERS

 

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man…” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 1

10. Accept our evening prayer, O holy Lord,
and grant us forgiveness of sins,
for You alone manifested the Resurrection to the world.

9. O you people, walk around Zion and encompass her.
And there give glory to Him Who is risen from the dead.
For He is our God
Who delivers us from our sins.

8. Come you people, praise and worship Christ.
Glorify His Resurrection from the dead;
for He is our God Who delivered the world
from the deceit of the enemy.

7. Rejoice, O you heavens;
sound the trumpets, you foundations of the earth;
cry out with joy, O you mountains.
For behold, Emmanuel has nailed our sins to the Cross;
the Giver of Life has put Death to death;
and the Lover of Mankind
has raised up Adam.

6. Let us praise the Lord
Who for our sake was willingly crucified in the flesh.
He suffered, was buried, and rose from the dead.
Therefore, let us sing to Him:
O Christ, keep Your Church in the orthodox faith
and bring peace to our lives;
for You are gracious and love mankind.

5. O Christ our God, as we stand unworthily before Your life-bearing grave,
we offer a hymn of praise to Your ineffable tenderness of heart.
For You, O Sinless One,
in Your loving-kindness have accepted the Cross and death
in order to grant
resurrection to the world.

4. Let us praise the Word
Who is without beginning and co-eternal with the Father.
For our sake He was born of the Virgin;
He freely accepted the Cross and death, and rose in glory.
Therefore, let sing to Him:
Glory to You, O Lord,
the Giver of Life and Saviour of souls.

In Tone 1

3. Adorned with virtue, faithful steward,
you wisely governed both the city and the Church.
The faithful of Milan, inspired by the Holy Spirit,
chose you, their earthly judge, to be their shepherd.
Therefore you are glorified with a twofold crown!

2. Filled with boldness, fearless Ambrose,
you rebuked the emperor’s violence.
As Nathan reproved David for his sin,
so you separated the king from the Church of Christ
until he should bear the fruits of repentance.

1. Cleansed by purity, holy Ambrose,
you were filled with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Labouring with prayer and vigilance,
you tended the flock of Christ with apostolic zeal.
We rejoice in your memory, vessel of election!

In Tone 4, Glory…

Emulating the Prophet Elijah and John the Baptist
you fearlessly rebuked the evil works of kings.
You adorned the throne of the hierarchy with wisdom;
you strengthened the faithful and converted unbelievers,
nourishing them with the scriptures, the true word of life.
You filled the Church with the sweetness of song.
Holy priest, blessed Ambrose,
pray that as we faithfully celebrate your blessed memory,
Christ our God may be merciful and forgive our sins.

In Tone 1, Now…

Let us sing a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary,
glory of the whole world!
She was herself formed by human seed,
yet she became the Mother of the Master, the Gate of heaven,
the theme of the angels’ hymn and beauty of the faithful.
She was seen as being heavenly
and the Tabernacle of the Godhead.
She indeed tore down the wall of enmity between God and man,
and brought peace in its place, she opened up the kingdom of heaven.
Let us therefore cling fast to her for she is the anchor of faith,
and let us receive as our stronghold the Lord Who was born of her.
Be of good cheer, then, and have confidence, O people of God,
for He will fight our enemies for us, He is all-powerful!

 

Aposticha

In Tone 1

O Christ, by Your Passion we have been freed from suffering;
and by Your Resurrection we have been delivered from corruption.
O Lord, glory to You!

The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength.

Let all creation rejoice, let the heavens be glad,
let the nations clap their hands with joy.
For Christ our Saviour, in His love for mankind,
has nailed our sins to the Cross;
He has put Death to death,
and by raising our fallen forefather, Adam,
He has given life to all mankind.

For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved.

O God, You are above all understanding;
You are King and Lord of heaven and earth.
Yet of Your own free will,
You allowed Yourself to be crucified because of Your love for mankind.
When You descended below,
Hades was filled with bitterness as You confronted it;
but the souls of the just received You with great joy.
Adam arose when he saw You, his Creator, down in the depths.
What a wonder this is!
You are the life of all and have tasted death
in order to dispel the darkness of the world with Your light.
O Lord, risen from the dead, glory to You!

Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days.

The myrrh-bearing women were filled with grief
as they hastened with spices to Your tomb;
but they did not find Your most pure body.
Instead, they found an angel
who proclaimed Your unique and glorious Resurrection,
and commanded them to announce to Your Apostles:
The Lord is risen, granting great mercy to the world.

Glory… Now…

O Mother of God, the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled,
since you remained a virgin both before and after giving birth.
For it was God Who was born of you to restore our human nature.
Therefore, do not overlook your servants who supplicate you in your temple.
Since you have held the merciful Lord in your arms,
be compassionate toward your servants,
and beseech Him to save our souls.

 

Troparia

In Tone 1
Though the stone was sealed by the Judeans* and soldiers guarded Your most pure body,* You arose, O Saviour, on the third day* and gave life to the world.* And so the heavenly powers cried out You, O Giver of Life:* Glory to Your Resurrection, O Christ!* Glory to Your Kingdom!* Glory to Your saving plan!** O only Lover of Mankind.

In Tone 4, Glory…
The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop, Ambrose.* Intercede with Christ, our God,** for the salvation of our souls.

Now…
O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created man,*and saved our souls from death.

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 1: Though the stone was sealed by the Judeans,* and soldiers guarded Your most pure body,* You arose, O Saviour, on the third day,* and gave life to the world.* And so the heavenly powers cried out to You, O Giver of Life:* Glory to Your resurrection, O Christ!* Glory to Your kingdom!* Glory to Your saving plan,* O only Lover of mankind.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

Kontakion, Tone 1: You arose in glory from the tomb* and with Yourself You raise the world.* All humanity acclaims You as God.* and death has vanished.* Adam exults, O Master,* and Eve, redeemed from bondage now, cries out for joy:* “You are the One, O Christ, Who offer resurrection to all.”

Now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Theotokion, Tone 1: When Gabriel uttered to you, O Virgin, his ‘Rejoice!’* at that sound the Master of all became flesh in you, the Holy Ark.* As the just David said,* you have become wider than the heavens carrying your Creator.* Glory to Him Who dwelt in you!* Glory to Him Who came forth from you!* Glory to Him Who freed us through birth from you!

Prokeimenon, Tone 1
Let Your mercy, O Lord, be upon us, as we have hoped in You.
verse: Rejoice in the Lord, O you just; praise befits the righteous. (Psalm 32:22,1)

Epistle
Ephesians 5:9-19

Alleluia, Tone 1
verse: God gives me vindication, and has subdued people under me.
verse: Making great the salvation of the king, and showing mercy to His anointed, to David, and to His posterity forever. (Psalm 17:48,51)

Gospel
Luke 12:16-21

Communion Hymn
Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 148:1)

This glorious saint, celebrated even today throughout the entire world, was the only son of his eminent and wealthy parents, Theophanes and Nona, citizens of the city of Patara in Lycia. Since he was the only son bestowed on them by God, the parents returned the gift to God by dedicating their son to Him. St. Nicholas learned of the spiritual life from his uncle Nicholas, Bishop of Patara, and was tonsured a monk in the Monastery of New Zion founded by his uncle. Following the death of his parents, Nicholas distributed all his inherited goods to the poor, not keeping anything for himself. As a priest in Patara, he was known for his charity, even though he carefully concealed his charitable works, fulfilling the words of the Lord: Let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth (Matthew 6:3). When he gave himself over to solitude and silence, thinking to live that way until his death, a voice from on high came to him: “Nicholas, for your ascetic labor, work among the people, if thou desirest to be crowned by Me.” Immediately after that, by God’s wondrous providence, he was chosen archbishop of the city of Myra in Lycia. Merciful, wise and fearless, Nicholas was a true shepherd to his flock. During the persecution of Christians under Diocletian and Maximian, he was cast into prison, but even there he instructed the people in the Law of God. He was present at the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea [325] and, out of great zeal for the truth, struck the heretic Arius with his hand. For this act he was removed from the Council and from his archiepiscopal duties, until the Lord Christ Himself and the Most-holy Theotokos appeared to several of the chief hierarchs and revealed their approval of Nicholas. A defender of God’s truth, this wonderful saint was ever bold as a defender of justice among the people. On two occasions, he saved three men from an undeserved sentence of death. Merciful, truthful, and a lover of justice, he walked among the people as an angel of God. Even during his lifetime, the people considered him a saint and invoked his aid in difficulties and in distress. He appeared both in dreams and in person to those who called upon him, and he helped them easily and speedily, whether close at hand or far away. A light shone from his face as it did from the face of Moses, and he, by his presence alone, brought comfort, peace and good will among men. In old age he became ill for a short time and entered into the rest of the Lord, after a life full of labor and very fruitful toil, to rejoice eternally in the Kingdom of Heaven, continuing to help the faithful on earth by his miracles and to glorify his God. He entered into rest on December 6, 343. (Prologue of Ohrid)

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GREAT VESPERS FOR ALL-NIGHT VIGIL

 

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man…” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 2

8. O holy Nicholas, Bishop of Christ,
you lived your life with people of Myra.
But since your spirit was anointed,
your fragrance of sanctity was known by all.
Now you anoint the faithful
who show their love for you.
O Father, deliver us from all distress and sorrow
as you pray to the Lord for us.

7. O holy Nicholas, true servant of Christ,
you are truly a protector of your faithful flock;
and whenever you were asked for help,
you gladly assisted those who sought your aid.
Now you are also ready by day or by night
to deliver us from all distress and sorrow.

6. When you appeared in a dream to Constantine the King,
you gave him this warning:
Release at once from prison those you have unjustly confined,
for they are innocent;
no murder did they commit as you claim.
O King, listen to me, or else I shall call upon the Lord.

5. O holy Nicholas, holy preacher of Christ,
always ready to help all on land or at sea.
Whether they be near or far, you have compassion for all.
You are a precious helper;
therefore, we who gather here ask you to pray to the Lord
that we be delivered from all distress and sorrow.

4. What crowns of praise shall we confer upon the saintly Nicholas?
Once present in the flesh in Myra,
he is present in spirit to all who love him purely.
He is the leader and defender of everyone,
a comforter in distress and a haven of all in danger,
a pillar of piety and conqueror for believers.
For his sake, Christ overcame enemies and shows us great mercy.

3. What crowns of praise shall we confer upon the saintly Nicholas?
Once present in the flesh in Myra,
he is present in spirit to all who love him purely.
He is the leader and defender of everyone,
a comforter in distress and a haven of all in danger,
a pillar of piety and conqueror for believers.
For his sake, Christ overcame enemies and shows us great mercy.

2. With what songs of praise shall we extol the saintly Nicholas?
He is the foe of wickedness.
He is an outstanding leader,
a great defender and teacher of the Church.
He confounds all who show dishonour.
He is the refuter of Arius and his companions.
Because of him, Christ put down their ragings and showed great mercy.

1. With what hymns of prophecy shall we extol the saintly Nicholas?
Living in the present, he saw far into the future.
He spoke truly about faraway things as though they were near.
He oversees the whole world and delivers the afflicted.
He appeared in a dream to the God-wise king.
He delivered prisoners who were unjustly accused of murder.
Today he grants us the mercy of Christ.

In Tone 6, Glory…

We have gathered to celebrate and to praise with song
the model of bishops and a glory to the fathers,
a fountain of miracles and a great helper of believers.
Let us sing to the saintly Nicholas:
Rejoice, O Protector of Myra
who was revered as its leader and strongest pillar.
Rejoice, O Radiant Star whose light of miracles shines throughout the world.
Rejoice, O Divine Joy to those in sorrow.
Rejoice, O Defender of those who are oppressed;
for even now, all-holy Nicholas,
you still pray to God for us who celebrate your feast with faith
and who honour you with zeal and joy.

Now…

O Cave, prepare yourself to receive the Mother
who bears Christ within her womb.
O Manger, receive the Word who destroyed the sins of all.
O Shepherds, keep watch and then bear witness to the awesome wonder.
O Magi, come from Persia,
and bring your gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the King.
For the Lord has appeared from a virgin Mother;
yet she bowed to Him as a servant
and spoke to Him within her bosom, saying:
How were You conceived in me?
How did You grow in me, my God and Saviour?

 

Readings
Proverbs 3:13-16; Proverbs 8:22-30; Wisdom 4:7-15

 

Lytia

In Tone 2

O holy Father Nicholas,
Christ has shown you to be the model of faith.
Your humility inspired all in your flock.
From Myra, your piety shines throughout the world.
You are known as the protector of widows and orphans.
Now we ask your unceasing prayer for the salvation of our souls.

O holy Father Nicholas,
your relics poured out myrrh and protected Myra.
While you lived, you appeared in a dream to the king;
by this appearance you freed from lashes, prison, and death,
those who were condemned unjustly;
now manifest yourself as you did then.
Implore Christ in behalf of our souls.

Even if the city of Myra were silenced, O holy Nicholas,
hymns of praise would be sung to you:
by the entire world which has been enlightened by your brightness;
by the multitude of your magnificent miracles;
and by the condemned who were saved by you.
We also join the inhabitants of your city and cry to you:
Intercede for the salvation of our souls.

In Tone 4

You anoint with the myrrh of the Holy Spirit, O Nicholas.
You send down flowers fresh with the fragrance of the divine goodness.
You became an imitator of the apostles of Christ.
Throughout the world, the sound of your miracles is heard, O holy Father.
Despite the great distances,
you appeared In a dream, as very near,
to deliver from death those who had fallen under the unjust sentence,
and to save from many dangers those who seek your protection.
By your prayers, also deliver us from misfortunes,
for we sing your praises unceasingly.

In Tone 8

The fruit of your good works, O holy Father,
has brought joy to the hearts of the faithful.
Who indeed has not heard of your wonderful works
and not admired your patience and humility,
the joy with which you fill the poor,
and the compassion that you show to the afflicted?
You have truly been an admirable example for all.
And now that your unfading crown has been placed on you,
O holy Nicholas, pray for our souls.

O Nicholas, while on earth you lived for the glory of the Lord;
now He has glorified you in the heavenly and true life.
Since you have obtained favour in his sight, implore Him to save our souls.

In Tone 6, Glory…

O good and faithful worker
in the vineyard of Christ,
you endured the hardships of daily labours;
you did not complain of those who worked less than you.
You increased the talent given you.
Therefore, the gates of heaven opened to you,
and now you share the joy of the Lord.
O holy Nicholas, pray for us.

Now…

O Zion, be happy; rejoice, O Jerusalem,
the city of Christ our God;
welcome the Creator who rests in a manger in a cave.
Open your gates, Jerusalem, and I will enter
so that I may see Him who holds all creation in his hand,
even though He lies in a manger wrapped in swaddling clothes.
The angels ever praise this life-giving Lord
who is the only Saviour of all.

 

Aposticha

In Tone 5

Rejoice, O priestly leader, spotless vessel of virtue,
model of divine priesthood, great shepherd of your flock,
bearer of the torch of victory.
You hear the prayers of those who call upon you;
you grant petitions of the poor;
you rescue all who praise your name.
Now we ask you to Implore Christ
that He may shower abundant mercy on the world.

Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of His faithful.

Rejoice, O saintly Father, temple of the Trinity;
pillar of the Church, protector of the faithful,
helper of all in trouble.
You are a star whose rays of prayer dispel the darkest trouble.
You are a quiet harbour for the storm-tossed,
for all adrift in the sea of life.
Pray to Christ to save our souls with his great mercy.

Your priests shall be clothed with holiness; your faithful shall ring out their joy.

Rejoice, O zealous man of God.
You appeared in a dream,
and you saved from death the ones unjustly sentenced.
You are a fountain in Myra, overflowing with scented myrrh.
You inspire us to keep from sin.
You are a sword that cuts the woods of error
you proved Arius to be a false teacher.
Pray to Christ to save our souls with His great mercy.

In Tone 6, Glory…

O man of God, O faithful servant of the Lord,
you are a chosen vessel filled with desire for God.
You are a pillar and a foundation of the Church;
you are an heir of the kingdom.
O holy Father Nicholas, pray to the Lord for us.

Now…

O Virgin without husband, from where do you come?
Who gave you birth; who is your mother?
How can you cradle the Creator in your arms?
How did you accomplish virgin-birth?
Most pure Lady, we see in you great wonders,
awesome mysteries fulfilled on earth.
We shall prepare a worthy cave for you.
We shall ask the heavens for a star.
We shall ask the Magi to come from the east to the west
to behold your new-born Child in a manger,
to behold the Saviour of all.

 

Troparia

In Tone 4
The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop Nicholas.* Intercede with Christ our God* for the salvation of our souls. (2)

In Tone 1
Rejoice, Virgin Mary, Mother of God, full of grace!* The Lord is with you.* Blessed are you among women,* and blessed is the fruit of your womb.* For you have given birth to Christ, the Deliverer and Saviour of our souls.

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 4: The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop Nicholas.* Intercede with Christ our God* for the salvation of our souls.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 3: In Myra, O holy one, you proved yourself a priest.* You fulfilled the Gospel of Christ, O venerable father.* You laid down your soul for your people* and saved the innocent from death.* And so you were sanctified as a great initiate of God’s grace.

Prokeimenon, Tone 7
The just man shall be glad in the Lord, and shall hope in Him.
verse: Hear, O God, my voice, when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2)

Epistle
Hebrews 13:17-21

Alleluia, Tone 2
verse: Your priests shall clothe themselves with justice, and Your venerable ones shall rejoice.
verse: For the Lord has chosen Sion; he has chosen it for His dwelling. (Psalm 131:9,13)

Gospel
Luke 6:17-23

Communion Hymn
The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6)

The unknown village of Mutalaska, in the province of Cappadocia, became famous through this great luminary of the Orthodox Church. Sava was born there of his parents John and Sophia. At the age of eight, he left the home of his parents and was tonsured a monk in a nearby monastic community called Flavian’s. After ten years, he moved to the monasteries of Palestine and remained longest in the Monastery of St. Euthymius the Great (January 20) and Theoctistus. The clairvoyant Euthymius prophesied of Sava that he would become a famous monk and a teacher of monks and that he would establish a lavra greater than all the lavras of that time. After the death of Euthymius, Sava withdrew to the desert, where he lived for five years as a hermit in a cave shown to him by an angel of God. Afterward, when he had been perfected in the monastic life, he began by divine providence to gather around him many who were desirous of the spiritual life. Soon, such a large number gathered that Sava had to build a church and many cells. Some Armenians also came to him, and for them he provided a cave where they would be able to celebrate services in the Armenian language. When his father died, his aged mother Sophia came to him, and he tonsured her a nun. He gave her a cell located at a distance from his monastery, where she lived a life of asceticism until her death. This holy father endured many assaults from all sides: from those who were close to him, from heretics, and from demons. But he triumphed over them all: those close to him, by kindness and indulgence; the heretics, by his unwavering confession of the Orthodox Faith; the demons, by the sign of the Cross and calling upon God for help. He had a particularly great struggle with demons on Mount Castellium, where he established his second monastery. In all, Sava established seven monasteries. He and Theodosius the Great, his neighbor, are considered to be the greatest lights and pillars of Orthodoxy in the East. They corrected emperors and patriarchs in matters of the Faith, and to everyone they served as an example of saintly humility and the miraculous power of God. After a toilsome and very fruitful life, St. Sava entered into rest in the year 532, at the age of ninety-four. Among his many wondrous and good works, let it at least be mentioned that he was the first to compile the Order of Services for use in monasteries, now known as the Jerusalem Typicon. (Prologue of Ohrid)

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GREAT VESPERS FOR POLYELEOS

 

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man…” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 5

8. O divinely wise Sabbas,
you stand together with the Angels and dwell with the holy monks;
you converse with the Prophets
and are co-heir of the Kingdom with the Martyrs and Apostles.
You dwell in the Light that knows no evening
and shine with His divine light and intense desire.
You stand before Him with boldness and unceasing enlightenment,
delighting in His beauties.
Entreat Christ, O holy Father,
and implore Him to grant to the Church unity, peace and great mercy!

7. O divinely wise Sabbas,
you stand together with the Angels and dwell with the holy monks;
you converse with the Prophets
and are co-heir of the Kingdom with the Martyrs and Apostles.
You dwell in the Light that knows no evening
and shine with His divine light and intense desire.
You stand before Him with boldness and unceasing enlightenment,
delighting in His beauties.
Entreat Christ, O holy Father,
and implore Him to grant to the Church unity, peace and great mercy!

6. O divinely wise Sabbas,
you stand together with the Angels and dwell with the holy monks;
you converse with the Prophets
and are co-heir of the Kingdom with the Martyrs and Apostles.
You dwell in the Light that knows no evening
and shine with His divine light and intense desire.
You stand before Him with boldness and unceasing enlightenment,
delighting in His beauties.
Entreat Christ, O holy Father,
and implore Him to grant to the Church unity, peace and great mercy!

5. O divinely wise Sabbas,
you are an unquenchable lamp of abstinence,
a radiant beacon for monastics, illumined with rays of love.
You are an unshaken tower of patient endurance,
the support and strength of those who honour you with faith,
a treasury of healings and true dweller in the desert,
which you showed to be the Paradise of God bearing the divine fruit of salvation.
Entreat Christ, O holy Father,
and implore Him to grant to the Church unity, peace and great mercy!

4. O divinely wise Sabbas,
you are an unquenchable lamp of abstinence,
a radiant beacon for monastics, illumined with rays of love.
You are an unshaken tower of patient endurance,
the support and strength of those who honour you with faith,
a treasury of healings and true dweller in the desert,
which you showed to be the Paradise of God bearing the divine fruit of salvation.
Entreat Christ, O holy Father,
and implore Him to grant to the Church unity, peace and great mercy!

3. O divinely wise Sabbas,
you are an unquenchable lamp of abstinence,
a radiant beacon for monastics, illumined with rays of love.
You are an unshaken tower of patient endurance,
the support and strength of those who honour you with faith,
a treasury of healings and true dweller in the desert,
which you showed to be the Paradise of God bearing the divine fruit of salvation.
Entreat Christ, O holy Father,
and implore Him to grant to the Church unity, peace and great mercy!

2. O divinely wise Sabbas,
you are a fiery pillar of the virtues,
a beacon guiding men from the sea of life to the harbour of God.
As a pure dwelling of the Holy Spirit, you cast down the spirits of deception.
You are an instructor of monastics,
a sure measure of abstinence,
a height of humility visible to all,
and a fountain pouring forth a depth of healing.
Entreat Christ, O venerable one,
and implore Him to grant to the Church unity, peace and great mercy!

1. O divinely wise Sabbas,
you are a fiery pillar of the virtues,
a beacon guiding men from the sea of life to the harbour of God.
As a pure dwelling of the Holy Spirit, you cast down the spirits of deception.
You are an instructor of monastics,
a sure measure of abstinence,
a height of humility visible to all,
and a fountain pouring forth a depth of healing.
Entreat Christ, O venerable one,
and implore Him to grant to the Church unity, peace and great mercy!

In Tone 6, Glory…

You set your mind as master over the deadly passions,
keeping the image unharmed through the ascetic life.
Thus you rose into the perfect likeness, for bravely curbing nature,
you hastened to subject to that which is better:
and made the body servant to the spirit.
Therefore you were revealed as the chief of those living the monastic life,
a citizen of the desert,
a master teaching those who come to you,
a perfect example of virtue.
Now the shadows have been set aside, O Sabbas,
and in heaven you behold in purity the Holy Trinity,
as you pray with boldness for those who honour you with faith and love.

Now…

Who would not call you blessed, O Virgin most holy?
Who would not sing a hymn of praise
to the glory of your giving birth without pain or travail?
The Only-begotten Son Himself,
begotten of the Father before all ages,
was made flesh out of you in a manner
that cannot be explained, O Woman most pure!
And for our sake, He Who is God by nature
assumed the nature of a man.
He is not divided into two persons;
He is understood to have two natures
without commixion or confusion.
O noble and blessed Woman,
intercede with Him that He may mercy on our souls.

 

Readings
Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9; Wisdom of Solomon 5:15-6:3; Wisdom of Solomon 4:7-15

 

Aposticha

In Tone 5

Rejoice, truly precious vessel of the fragrance of ascetic struggles,
as you took your cross upon your shoulder and offered yourself to Christ the Master!
Blessed Father, you trampled the base presumption of the flesh,
enlightening your soul with virtues
and taking flight towards desire for God.
Now as we stand around your most holy shrine, all-blessed  Sabbas,
we ask that by your prayers we may receive God’s love for mankind,
and that the world be granted great mercy.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.

God-bearing Sabbas,
in your godly wisdom, O venerable Father,
you approached the fire of the Spirit,
revealing yourself in the world as a divinely glowing ember,
enlightening the souls of those who faithfully come to you
and leading them to the unfading light.
Moistened from on high with the dew of divine grace,
you quenched the burning fire of the desert.
Therefore, Christ, the Lord of divine righteousness,
has openly granted you a crown of victory, O blessed one.
Entreat Him to grant our souls great mercy!

Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; who delights in His commandments.

Divinely wise Sabbas,
your life was manifested as a ladder,
spanning the gulf between earth and the heavens.
You ascended the heights and were counted worthy to converse with Christ the Master;
having enlightened your mind with this radiance, most blessed one,
you received a splendour equal to that of the Angels.
Now as you stand before Him, O venerable one,
pray that we who celebrate your divine and most holy memory may stand with you,
and that He will grant the world great mercy!

 

In Tone 8, Glory…

We honour you, O Sabbas our Father,
the instructor of a multitude of monks.
We have indeed learned to walk rightly in your footsteps.
You are blessed, for having laboured for Christ,
you denounced the  power of the Enemy.
You were a converser with the Angels
and a companion of the venerable and righteous ones.
Together with them, entreat the Lord that He may grant mercy to our souls!

Now…

Unwedded Virgin,
you ineffably conceived God in the flesh.
O Mother of God most high,
accept the cries of your servants, O blameless one!
Grant cleansing of transgressions to all!
Receive our prayers and pray to save our souls!

 

Troparia

In Tone 8

With streams of your tears you cultivated the barren desert,* with deep sighs your toils bore fruit a hundredfold.* You became a beacon, shining throughout the world by your wonders,* our venerable Father, Sabbas.* Pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved.

Glory… Now…

O gracious Lord, for the sake of mankind You were born of a virgin;* through Your death on the cross You conquered death;* and through Your resurrection You revealed yourself as God.* O merciful Lord, do not disdain those whom You have created with Your own hands,* but show forth Your love for mankind.* Accept the intercession which the Mother, who bore You, makes in our behalf.** O Saviour, save Your despairing people!

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 8: With the streams of your tears you cultivated the barren desert,* with deep sighs your toils bore fruit a hundredfold.* You became a beacon, shining throughout the world by your wonders,* our venerable Father, Sabbas.* Pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 8: In your virtue,* O blessed Sabbas,* you offered yourself to God from childhood* as an unblemished sacrifice,* becoming a gardener* in the garden of godliness.* Thus you became the adornment of monastics,* a praiseworthy citizen of the desert.* And so we cry to you:* Rejoice, most wealthy Sabbas.

Prokeimenon, Tone 7
Precious in the sight of the Lord* is the death of His venerable ones.
verse: What shall I render to the Lord for all the things He has rendered to me? (Psalm 115:6,3)

Epistle
Galatians 5:22-6:2

Alleluia, Tone 6
verse: Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; he shall delight exceedingly in His commandments.
verse: His posterity shall be mighty upon the earth. (Psalm 111:1,2)

Gospel
Matthew 11:27-30

Communion Hymn
The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6-7)

Andrew, the son of Jonah and brother of Peter, was born in Bethsaida and was a fisherman by trade. At first he was a disciple of St. John the Baptist, but when St. John pointed to the Lord Jesus, saying, Behold the Lamb of God! (John 1:36), Andrew left his first teacher and followed Christ. Then, Andrew brought his brother Peter to the Lord. Following the descent of the Holy Spirit, it fell by lot to the first apostle of Christ, St. Andrew, to preach the Gospel in Byzantium and Thrace, then in the lands along the Danube and in Russia around the Black Sea, and finally in Epirus, Greece and the Peloponnese, where he suffered. In Byzantium, he appointed St. Stachys as its first bishop; in Kiev, he planted a Cross on a high place and prophesied a bright Christian future for the Russian people; throughout Thrace, Epirus, Greece and the Peloponnese, he converted multitudes of people to the Faith and ordained bishops and priests for them. In the city of Patras, he performed many miracles in the name of Christ, and won many over to the Lord. Among the new faithful were the brother and wife of the Proconsul Aegeates. Angered at this, Aegeates subjected St. Andrew to torture and then crucified him. While the apostle of Christ was still alive on the cross, he gave beneficial instructions to the Christians who had gathered around. The people wanted to take him down from the cross but he refused to let them. Then the apostle prayed to God and an extraordinary light encompassed him. This brilliant illumination lasted for half an hour, and when it disappeared, the apostle gave up his holy soul to God. Thus, the First-called Apostle, the first of the Twelve Great Apostles to know the Lord and follow Him, finished his earthly course. St. Andrew suffered for his Lord in the year 62. His relics were taken to Constantinople; his head was later taken to Rome, and one hand was taken to Moscow. (Prologue of Ohrid)

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GREAT VESPERS

 

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man…” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 8

10. O Christ, during this spiritual service,
we sing to You these evening prayers,
commemorating the mercy You have shown us
by Your resurrection.

9. O Lord, O Lord, do not cast us away from Your face;
but in Your kindness have mercy on us
through Your resurrection.

8. Rejoice, O holy Zion,
the Mother of Churches and the dwelling-place of God;
for you were the first to receive the forgiveness of sins
through the resurrection.

7. Christ the Word was begotten by God the Father before all ages;
yet in these latter times,
He freely willed to take flesh from the Virgin who did not know man.
By His death on the cross and His resurrection,
He saved mankind from the ancient curse of death.

In Tone 4

6. When he who is called the Morning Star,
the splendour of the glory of the eternal Father,
in His great mercy took up his abode on earth,
you, glorious Andrew, were the first to meet him
for your heart was enlightened with the perfect brightness of His divinity.
We bless you as the herald of the apostles of Christ our God!
Pray that He may enlighten and save our souls

5. When he who is called the Morning Star,
the splendour of the glory of the eternal Father,
in His great mercy took up his abode on earth,
you, glorious Andrew, were the first to meet him
for your heart was enlightened with the perfect brightness of His divinity.
We bless you as the herald of the apostles of Christ our God!
Pray that He may enlighten and save our souls

4. When He who was proclaimed by the voice of the Forerunner,
the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world,
bringing life and salvation to all the earth,
you, holy Andrew, were the first to follow Him.
You were offered to Him as the first-fruits of the human race.
You proclaimed to Peter your brother: we have found the Christ!”
Pray that He may save our souls.

3. When He who was proclaimed by the voice of the Forerunner,
the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world,
bringing life and salvation to all the earth,
you, holy Andrew, were the first to follow Him.
You were offered to Him as the first-fruits of the human race.
You proclaimed to Peter your brother: we have found the Christ!”
Pray that He may save our souls.

2. When He who clothed Himself in human flesh,
taking our nature from the fruitful womb of the Virgin,
appeared on earth as the Teacher of Righteousness,
your heart was made glad, Andrew, lover of purity!
He raised you from earth to the ineffable glory of God!
Pray that He may enlighten and save our souls..

1. When He who clothed Himself in human flesh,
taking our nature from the fruitful womb of the Virgin,
appeared on earth as the Teacher of Righteousness,
your heart was made glad, Andrew, lover of purity!
He raised you from earth to the ineffable glory of God!
Pray that He may enlighten and save our souls..

Glory…

Leaving behind your fishnets, apostle Andrew,
you caught men with the net of your preaching.
Throwing to us the bait of righteousness,
you delivered all nations from the depths of error.
Apostle Andrew, brother of Peter the Primate,
all-glorious and never-failing intercessor,
may the celebration of your memory
enlighten all who dwell in darkness.

In Tone 8, Now…

Out of his love for mankind
the King of heaven appeared on earth and dwelt with men,
for He assumed a human body from the pure Virgin
and was seen in the flesh He received from her.
He is the One and only God having two natures but not two persons.
Wherefore we profess and declare the truth
that Christ our God is perfect God and perfect Man.
O Mother, who knew not carnal union,
intercede with Him that He may have mercy on our souls.

 

Readings
1 Peter 1:1-2:6; 1 Peter 2:21-3:9; 1 Peter 4:1-11

 

Aposticha

In Tone 8

O Jesus, You descended from heaven
so that You might ascend the cross.
O immortal Life, You came to die.
You are the true light to those who live in darkness,
and You are the resurrection of the fallen.
Therefore, O Saviour of all, we glorify You.

The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. * Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength.

Let us glorify Christ, the Saviour of our Souls
Who arose from the dead.
For He took upon himself a soul and a body,
and during His passion He separated the one from the other.
His pure soul went down to conquer Hades,
while His holy body lay uncorrupted in the grave.

For He has made the world firm. * which shall not be moved.

O Christ, we glorify Your resurrection with psalms and hymns.
For by Your victory over death
You delivered us from the sufferings of Hades,
and as God You granted us eternal life and great mercy.

Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, * for length of days.

O Lord of all, Creator of heaven and earth,
You are above all understanding.
Through Your passion on the cross
You freed us from the sufferings of Hades.
And, after condescending to be buried, You arose in glory;
and with Your mighty arm You also raised up Adam.
O most merciful Lord, we glorify You;
for by Your resurrection on the third day
You granted us remission of sins and eternal life.

In Tone 3, Glory…

Apostle Andrew, we honour you in songs,
brother of Peter and disciple of Christ, fisherman and fisher of men,
you shaped all dogmas with the wisdom of Christ.
As fish are lured into a net, so you caught transgressors with the bait of truth.
Through his prayers, O Christ, grant us peace and great mercy.

Now…

O Virgin Mother, you conceived the Son of God without seed
by the will of the Father and the power of the Holy Spirit.
He was begotten by the Father, without a mother, from all eternity.
Yet for our sake, He was born of you in the flesh without a human father,
and you nursed Him as an infant with your milk.
Therefore, never cease to entreat Him to deliver our souls from affliction.

 

Troparia

In Tone 8

You came down from on high, O Merciful One,* and accepted three days of burial* to free us from our sufferings.* O Lord, our life and our resurrection,* glory be to You.

In Tone 4

As the First-called of the Apostles* and full brother of their leader,* implore the Master of all,* to give peace to the world,* and to our souls great mercy.

Glory… Now…

O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created man,** and saved our souls from death.

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 8: You came down from oh high, O Merciful One,* and accepted three days of burial* to free us from our sufferings.* O Lord, our life and our resurrection,* glory be to You.

Troparion, Tone 4: As the First-called of the Apostles* and full brother of their leader,* implore the Master of all,* to give peace to the world,* and to our souls great mercy.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

Kontakion, Tone 8: When You rose from the tomb,* You also raised the dead and resurrected Adam.* Eve exults in Your resurrection,* and the ends of the world celebrate Your rising from the dead,* O most merciful One.

Now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 2: Let us praise God’s herald, whose name is “courage,”* Peter’s kinsman who leads those in the Church who follow the chief apostle,* for as then to Peter so now to us he cries aloud:* “We have found the One so longed for.”

Prokeimenon, Tone 8
Pray and give thanks to the Lord our God.
verse: In Judea God is known; His name is great in Israel. (Psalm 76:12,2)

Prokeimenon, Tone 8
Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth, and their word unto the ends of the world. (Psalm 18:5)

Epistle
Ephesians 4:1-6; 1 Corinthians 4:9-16

Alleluia, Tone 8
verse: Come, let us rejoice in the Lord; let us acclaim God our Saviour.
verse: Let us come before His countenance with praise and acclaim Him with psalms. (Psalm 95:1,2)
verse: The heavens shall confess our wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints.
verse: God is glorified in the assembly of the saints. (Psalm 88:6,8)

Gospel
Luke 10:25-37; John 1:35-51

Communion Hymn
Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest. (Psalm 148:1)* Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their word unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5)

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Amphilochius was a fellow countryman, companion and friend of St. Basil the Great and other great saints of the fourth century. Amphilochius left the uproar of the world early in life and withdrew to a cave where, as a hermit, he lived in asceticism for forty years. It then happened that the episcopal throne in Iconium was vacated, and Amphilochius, in a wondrous manner, was chosen and consecrated Bishop of Iconium. He was a splendid shepherd and a great defender of the purity of the Orthodox Faith. He took part in the Second Ecumenical Council in 381. He fought zealously against the impious Macedonius, the Arians and the Eunomians. He personally begged Theodosius the Great to expel all the Arians from every city in the empire, but the emperor did not heed him. A few days later, Amphilochius came before the emperor again. When the bishop was led into the reception chamber, the emperor was sitting on his throne, and on his right sat his son Arcadius, whom Theodosius had taken as his co-emperor. Entering the chamber, St. Amphilochius bowed to Emperor Theodosius but paid no attention to Arcadius, the emperor’s son, as if he were not there. Greatly enraged at this, Emperor Theodosius ordered that Amphilochius be immediately expelled from the court. The saint then said to the emperor: “Do you see, O Emperor, how you do not tolerate disrespect to your son? So too, God the Father does not tolerate disrespect to His Son, and is disgusted with the corruptness of those who blaspheme Him and is angered at all those adherents of that cursed (Arian) heresy.” Hearing this, the emperor then understood why Amphilochius had not given honor to his son, and was amazed at his wisdom and daring. Among many other works, St. Amphilochius wrote several books on the Faith. He entered into rest in great old age in the year 395 and took up his habitation in eternal life.

Gregory was born of devout parents, Chariton and Theodota in Sicily near the town of Agrigentum, where he was later bishop,. His entire life was imbued with God’s wonderful miracles. In a miraculous manner, he went to Jerusalem; in a miraculous manner, he was chosen as bishop; and in a miraculous manner, he was saved from slander. He himself was a great miracle-worker, for he was a great God-pleaser, a great spiritual father and an ascetic. He participated at the Fifth Ecumenical Council in Constantinople in 553. After difficult trials he reposed peacefully near the end of the sixth century or the beginning of the seventh. (Prologue of Ohrid)

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GREAT VESPERS

 

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man…” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 7

10. Come, let us rejoice in the Lord,
Who destroyed the power of death
and enlightened the human race;
and let us cry out with the angels:
Glory to You, our Creator and Saviour!

9. O Saviour, for our sake You suffered crucifixion and burial;
and, as God, You destroyed death by Your death.
Therefore, we adore Your resurrection on the third day
and we sing: Glory to You, O Lord!

8. On seeing the resurrection of the Creator,
the Apostles were amazed,
and they sang an angelic hymn of praise:
This is the glory of the Church,
this is the richness of the Kingdom!
O Lord, Who suffered for our sake, glory to You!

7. O Christ, although You were taken captive by Your enemies,
I still acknowledge You as my God,
and am not ashamed of You;
I will not hide the fact that You were nailed to the Cross.
Your death is my life, almighty Lord,
and I extol Your resurrection.
O Lover of mankind, glory to You!

In Tone 1

6. O faithful, let us leap for joy today,
singing psalms and hymns of praise
in honour of Mary, his mother,
the holy Tabernacle and Ark that contained the Word
whom nothing can contain.
She is offered to God as a child in a marvellous way,
and Zechariah the high priest receives her with great joy,
for she is the dwelling place of the Most High.

5. Today the living Temple of the holy glory of Christ our God,
Mary, the pure and blessed One,
is being brought into the temple according to the Law
to live in its holy precincts.
Joachim and Anne and all the virgins
rejoice with her in spirit.
They sing hymns of praise to the Lord
and honour his Mother.

4. O Virgin Mother of God,
you are the One foretold by the prophets.
You are the glory of the apostles
and the pride of martyrs
and the cause of renewal for the entire human race.
Through you we have been reconciled with God.
Therefore, we honour your entrance into the temple of the Lord.
Together with the angels, all of us who are saved by your prayers sing to you:
Rejoice, O most holy One.

In Tone 4 (Amphilochius)

3. O all-blessed one,
you disciplined your mind and controlled your passions,
thereby choosing good rather than evil.
You used a just measure to make the comparison, O Father.
Because of that you were able to see and know God,
O inspired Hierarch.

2. O venerable one,
you tore the nets and destroyed the catches of heresy.
With true dogmas and theology
you escaped from disunity and evil confusion, O Father.
You Preached the Trinity in the oneness of the Divinity
and remained in the bounds of our true faith.

1. Having given wisdom to the Emperor Theodosius
who was reigning on earth,
you rebuked his obstinate son.
O venerable one, you taught him that the Lord of the universe
abhors those who are ungrateful towards his Son,
their Saviour and Benefactor.

In Tone 4, Glory… Now…

Come all you people,
and let us praise the only-Immaculate One
who was foretold by the prophets
and is being led into the temple.
She was chosen from eternity to be the Mother;
and in time she was revealed as the Theotokos.
O Lord, by her prayers
grant us your peace and great mercy.

In Tone 7, Now…

Immaculate Mother of God,
you became a mother outside the laws of nature,
remaining a virgin in a way that exceeds all description
and human understanding.
The wonder of your birth-giving could not be told in human language,
for your conception of Christ blinded intelligence,
and your birth-giving exceeded understanding:
for whenever God so desires, the laws of nature are broken.
Wherefore, we all firmly believe that you are the Mother of God,
and we eagerly beseech you to intercede for the salvation of our souls.

 

Aposticha

In Tone 7

O Saviour of the world, You arose from the grave,
and together with Your own flesh You raised up mankind.
O Lord, glory to You!

The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength.

Come, let us worship Christ Who arose from the dead
and enlightened all creation.
For by His resurrection on the third day,
He set us free from the oppression of Hades,
granting us life and His great mercy.

For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved.

O Christ, Lover of mankind,
You descended into Hades and destroyed death.
Then You arose on the third day;
and, together with Yourself You lifted up all of us
who glorify Your mighty resurrection.

Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days.

O Lord, what a fearful sight it was to see You lying in the tomb as if asleep.
Yet on the third day You arose in great power,
and at the same time You raised up Adam who joyfully cried out:
Glory to Your resurrection, O Lover of mankind!

In Tone 5, Glory… Now…

A day of joy has truly dawned.
It is a most precious feast for us,
because she who was virgin before and after childbirth,
today is offered in the temple.
The aged Zechariah, father of the Forerunner, cries aloud, rejoicing:
The intercessor of those in affliction
comes into the holy temple, since she herself is holy.
She will be sanctified in the abode of the King of all.
Let her father, Joachim, be glad
and let Anne rejoice exceedingly,
because they have offered to God
the immaculate Queen as a three year old child.
Rejoice with them, all you women;
all you virgins and barren ones, dance for joy
and celebrate with them,
for the Queen of all has opened the kingdom of heaven for us.
Let all people be glad and rejoice.

 

Troparia

In Tone 7
By Your cross You destroyed death;* You opened Paradise to the thief;* You changed the lamentation of the myrrh-bearers to joy,* and charged the apostles to proclaim* that You are risen, O Christ our God,* offering great mercy to the world.

In Tone 4, Glory… Now…
Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:** Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan.

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 7: By Your cross You destroyed death;* You opened Paradise to the thief;* You changed the lamentation of the myrrh-bearers to joy,* and charged the apostles to proclaim* that You are risen, O Christ our God,* offering great mercy to the world.

Troparion, Tone 4: Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

Kontakion, Tone 7: No longer shall the dominion of death be able to hold humanity,* for Christ went down shattering and destroying it s powers.* Hades is bound.* The prophets exult with one voice.* The Saviour has come for those with faith, saying:* “Come forth, O faithful, to the resurrection!”

Now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 4: The Saviour’s pure temple,* the precious bridal chamber and Virgin,* the sacred treasury of the glory of God,* is brought today into the house of the Lord;* and with her she brings the grace of the divine Spirit.* God’s angels sing in praise of her:* She is indeed the heavenly dwelling-place.

Prokeimenon, Tone 7
The Lord will give strength to His people;* the Lord will bless His people with peace.
verse: Bring to the Lord, O you sons of God; bring to the Lord young rams. (Psalm 28:11,1)

Epistle
Ephesians 2:14-22

Alleluia, Tone 7
verse: It is good to give praise to the Lord; and to sing to Your name, O Most High.
verse: To announce Your mercy in the morning, and Your truth every night. (Psalm 91:2,3)

Gospel
Luke 8:41-56

Hymn to the Mother of God
Seeing the entrance of the pure one, angels marvel in wonder how the Virgin could enter the holy of holies.
And the Irmos, Tone 4: Let no hand of the profane touch God’s living ark,* but instead let the lips of those who are believers* sing out ceaselessly

Communion Hymn
Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 148:1)

When the Most-holy Virgin Mary reached the age of three, her holy parents Joachim and Anna took her from Nazareth to Jerusalem to dedicate her to the service of God according to their earlier promise. It was a three-day journey from Nazareth to Jerusalem but, traveling to do a God-pleasing work, this journey was not difficult for them. Many kinsmen of Joachim and Anna gathered in Jerusalem to take part in this event, at which the invisible angels of God were also present. Leading the procession into the Temple were virgins with lighted tapers in their hands, then the Most-holy Virgin, led on one side by her father and on the other side by her mother. The virgin was clad in vesture of royal magnificence and adornments as was befitting the “King’s daughter, the Bride of God” (Psalm 45:13-15). Following them were many kinsmen and friends, all with lighted tapers. Fifteen steps led up to the Temple. Joachim and Anna lifted the Virgin onto the first step, then she ran quickly to the top herself, where she was met by the High Priest Zacharias, who was to be the father of St. John the Forerunner. Taking her by the hand, he led her not only into the Temple, but into the “Holy of Holies,” the holiest of holy places, into which no one but the high priest ever entered, and only once each year, at that. St. Theophylact of Ohrid says that Zacharias “was outside himself and possessed by God” when he led the Virgin into the holiest place in the Temple, beyond the second curtain-otherwise, his action could not be explained. Mary’s parents then offered sacrifice to God according to the Law, received the priest’s blessing and returned home. The Most-holy Virgin remained in the Temple and dwelt there for nine full years. While her parents were alive, they visited her often, especially Righteous Anna. When God called her parents from this world, the Most-holy Virgin was left an orphan and did not wish to leave the Temple until death or to enter into marriage. As that would have been against the Law and custom of Israel, she was given to St. Joseph, her kinsman in Nazareth, after reaching the age of twelve. Under the acceptable role of one betrothed, she could live in virginity and thus fulfill her desire and formally satisfy the Law, for it was then unknown in Israel for maidens to vow virginity to the end of their lives. The Most-holy Virgin Mary was the first of such life-vowed virgins, of the thousands and thousands of virgin men and women who would follow her in the Church of Christ. (Prologue of Ohrid)

 

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GREAT VESPERS FOR ALL-NIGHT VIGIL

 

Beginning of Vespers with Litiya: Glory be to the holy, consubstantial, life-creating and undivided Trinity, now and ever and for ages of ages. Amen.

 

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 1

8. O faithful, let us leap for joy today,
singing psalms and hymns of praise
in honour of Mary, his mother,
the holy Tabernacle and Ark that contained the Word
whom nothing can contain.
She is offered to God as a child in a marvellous way,
and Zechariah the high priest receives her with great joy,
for she is the dwelling place of the Most High.

7. O faithful, let us leap for joy today,
singing psalms and hymns of praise
in honour of Mary, his mother,
the holy Tabernacle and Ark that contained the Word
whom nothing can contain.
She is offered to God as a child in a marvellous way,
and Zechariah the high priest receives her with great joy,
for she is the dwelling place of the Most High.

6. Today the living Temple of the holy glory of Christ our God,
Mary, the pure and blessed One,
is being brought into the temple according to the Law
to live in its holy precincts.
Joachim and Anne and all the virgins
rejoice with her in spirit.
They sing hymns of praise to the Lord
and honour his Mother.

5. Today the living Temple of the holy glory of Christ our God,
Mary, the pure and blessed One,
is being brought into the temple according to the Law
to live in its holy precincts.
Joachim and Anne and all the virgins
rejoice with her in spirit.
They sing hymns of praise to the Lord
and honour his Mother.

4. O Virgin Mother of God,
you are the One foretold by the prophets.
You are the glory of the apostles
and the pride of martyrs
and the cause of renewal for the entire human race.
Through you we have been reconciled with God.
Therefore, we honour your entrance into the temple of the Lord.
Together with the angels, all of us who are saved by your prayers sing to you:
Rejoice, O most holy One.

In Tone 4

3. The holy and immaculate One
is being led into the Holy of Holies by the Holy Spirit.
She is being nourished by angels,
since she is the holy Temple of our holy God.
He has sanctified all creation because of her entrance,
and He has deified our fallen human nature.

2. Today the maidens rejoice.
Carrying lamps, they piously escort Mary,
the spiritual lamp, into the Holy of Holies.
This is a foreshadowing of the splendid Light
that will shine forth from her,
the Light that will enlighten all
who sit in the darkness of ignorance.

1. The most praiseworthy Anne cries out in great joy:
O Zechariah, receive the One whom the prophets of God
foretold through the Spirit.
Escort her into the holy temple,
since she is to be the sublime Temple,
the palace, throne, and wondrous abode of our God.

Glory… Now…

O Lady and Bride of God,
you entered the temple of God in your infancy
to be brought up in the Holy of Holies,
for you are holy.
The archangel Gabriel was sent to serve you and bring you food.
All the heavenly powers were amazed
at the sight of the Holy Spirit dwelling in you.
Therefore, O most pure and immaculate Mother of God,
since you are glorified in heaven and on earth,
through your prayers save our human race.

 

Readings
Exodus 40:1-5,9-10,16,34-35; I Kings 7:51-8:1, 3-7, 9-11; Ezekiel 43:27-44:4

 

Litiya

In Tone 1

Today let the heavens above greatly rejoice
and let the clouds pour down gladness
at the mighty and marvellous acts of our God.
For behold, the gate that looks towards the East,
born from a fruitless and barren womb according to the promise,
and consecrated to God as his dwelling,
is now being brought into the temple
as a spotless offering.
Let David greatly rejoice and play on his harp, saying:
Virgins shall be brought to the king after her;
her companions shall be brought into the ark of the Lord
to be nourished with the life of the Incorruptible One
who was begotten from eternity
for the salvation of our souls.

In Tone 4

Today the Theotokos, the Temple that is to contain God,
is being escorted into the temple of the Lord,
and Zechariah receives her.
Today the Holy of Holies greatly rejoices,
and the choir of angels mystically celebrates this feast.
Let us also celebrate with them today
and cry out with Gabriel:
Rejoice, O Full of Grace, the Lord is with you,
and He grants us great mercy.

Come all you people,
and let us praise the only Immaculate One
who was foretold by the prophets
and is being led into the temple.
She was chosen from eternity to be the Mother;
and in time she was revealed as the Theotokos.
O Lord, by her prayers grant us your peace and great mercy.

In Tone 5, Glory… Now…

A day of joy has truly dawned.
It is a most precious feast for us,
because she who was virgin before and after childbirth,
today is offered in the temple.
The aged Zechariah, father of the Forerunner, cries aloud, rejoicing:
The intercessor of those in affliction
comes into the holy temple, since she herself is holy.
She will be sanctified in the abode of the King of all.
Let her father, Joachim, be glad
and let Anne rejoice exceedingly,
because they have offered to God
the immaculate Queen as a three year old child.
Rejoice with them, all you women;
all you virgins and barren ones, dance for joy
and celebrate with them,
for the Queen of all has opened the kingdom of heaven for us.
Let all people be glad and rejoice.

 

Aposticha

In Tone 5

Heaven and earth today rejoice together
at the sight of the mystical heaven;
the immaculate and pure Virgin is coming into the holy temple
to be brought up in honour. Zechariah, rejoicing in her and leaping for joy,
cried out in awe: O Door of the Lord,
I open the doors of the temple to you,
because I know and believe that the salvation of Israel is already coming,
that the Word of God will be born from you,
and that He will grant great mercy to the world.

She is led to the King with her maiden companions.

When Anne, which means grace,
was graced with the pure and ever-Virgin Mary,
she presented her into the temple of God.
She called maidens to carry candles and walk before her as she said:
O child, go to be an offering
and a fragrant incense for the One who sent you to me.
Enter into the veiled places and learn the mysteries of God.
Prepare yourself to be a delightful dwelling place for Jesus
who will give great mercy to the world.

They are escorted amid gladness and joy; they pass within the palace of the King.

The all-holy Virgin is handed over into the temple.
Maidens carrying candles go before her.
Her parents, the devoted couple, Joachim and Anne, joyfully celebrate,
for they have given birth in the flesh to the One who will bear the Creator.
She will dance for joy in the temple of God
and will be fed by the hand of an angel.
The all-immaculate Mother of Christ has appeared,
and He will grant great mercy to the world.

In Tone 6, Glory… Now…

O assembly of the faithful,
let us celebrate this day as a spiritual feast.
With great love, let us honour the maiden of God,
the Virgin and Theotokos,
as she is presented into the temple of the Lord;
for she has been chosen from among all generations
to be the dwelling place of Christ our God
who is the King of all.
O virgins, carry candles and lead the way
for the entrance of the ever-Virgin.
Follow after her who is the Mother of God
and mediatrix for the joy of the world.
Therefore, let us all cry out together with the angels:
Rejoice, for you are full of grace,
and you continually pray for our souls.

 

Troparion

In Tone 4

Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:** Rejoice, fulfillment of the Creator’s plan. (3 times)

 

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FESTAL MATINS

Hexapsalm

Great Ekteny

The Lord Is God, Tone 4

Troparion, Tone 4
Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfillment of the Creator’s plan. (twice)

Glory… Now…

Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfillment of the Creator’s plan.

Kathisma & Little Ekteny
Sessional Hymn I
In Tone 1: The fruit of righteous Joachim and Ann* is brought as an offering to God in the holy sanctuary,* she who sustains our life, a young child in the flesh;* and she receives the blessing of Zacharias the priest.* Let all of us in faith call her blessed, for she is the Mother of the Lord.

Glory… Now…

The fruit of righteous Joachim and Ann* is brought as an offering to God in the holy sanctuary,* she who sustains our life, a young child in the flesh;* and she receives the blessing of Zacharias the priest.* Let all of us in faith call her blessed, for she is the Mother of the Lord.

Kathisma & Little Ekteny
Sessional Hymn II
In Tone 4: Before your conception, O pure Virgin,* you were consecrated to God;* and now after your birth you are offered as a gift to Him* in fulfillment of your parents’ promise.* To the divine temple you are brought,* yourself a Temple truly divine, innocent from the time you were a babe;* you have appeared in the sanctuary accompanied by brightly burning lamps,* who are the Receiver of the Divine Light that no man can approach.* Magnificent in truth is your entry,* O only Bride of God and ever-Virgin.

Glory… Now…

Before your conception, O pure Virgin,* you were consecrated to God;* and now after your birth you are offered as a gift to Him* in fulfillment of your parents’ promise.* To the divine temple you are brought,* yourself a Temple truly divine, innocent from the time you were a babe;* you have appeared in the sanctuary accompanied by brightly burning lamps,* who are the Receiver of the Divine Light that no man can approach.* Magnificent in truth is your entry,* O only Bride of God and ever-Virgin.

Polyeleos

Exaltation
We extol you,* O most holy Virgin!* Maiden chosen of God!* And we honour your entry into the temple!
verse:
Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised:
in the city of our God and in His holy mountain!…
Holy is Your temple, and wonderful in righteousness!…
Glory…Now…
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to You, O God! (3 times)

Sidalen
In Tone 8: Let David the Psalmist greatly rejoice,* let Joachim and Ann be glad,* for a holy child has come forth from them,* Mary the Lamp that bears the Divine Light;* and she rejoices as she enters the temple.* The son of Zarachias, beholding her, gave her his blessing and cried out in joy:* “Hail, you wonder of the all the world!”

Glory… Now…

Let David the Psalmist greatly rejoice,* let Joachim and Ann be glad,* for a holy child has come forth from them,* Mary the Lamp that bears the Divine Light;* and she rejoices as she enters the temple.* The son of Zarachias, beholding her, gave her his blessing and cried out in joy:* “Hail, you wonder of the all the world!”

Gradual Hymns

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline your ear.
verse: My heart is inditing a good matter.

Let Everything That Has Breath, Tone 4

Gospel
Luke 1:39-49, 56

After Psalm 50
In Tone 2, Glory…
Today the living Temple of the great King* enters the temple to be prepared as a divine dwelling-place for Him.* O people, rejoice exceedingly.

Now…
Today the living Temple of the great King* enters the temple to be prepared as a divine dwelling-place for Him.* O people, rejoice exceedingly.

In Tone 4,Have mercy on me, God, in your kindness. In your compassion, blot out my offense.
Today the Theotokos, the Temple that is to hold God,* is led into the temple of the Lord,* and Zacharias receives her.* Today the Holy of Holies rejoices greatly,* and the choir of angels mystically keeps feast.* With them let us also celebrate the festival today,* and let us cry aloud with Gabriel:* Hail, O you who are full of grace: the Lord is with you,* He who has great mercy.

Canon

ODE 1
First Canon – Tone 4
Irmos I shall open my mouth and the Spirit will inspire it, and I shall utter the words of my song to the Queen and
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Mother: I shall be seen radiantly keeping feast and joyfully praising her entry.
We know that you, O All-Undefiled, are a treasury of wisdom and a never-failing fountain of grace. We therefore pray: O Lady, let fall some drops of knowledge upon us, that we may sing your praises for ever.
You who are honoured, O Most Holy, far above the heavens, you who are both Temple and Palace, you are dedicated in the temple of God, to be prepared as a divine dwelling-place for His coming.
She who made the light of grace shine forth, the Theotokos, has illuminated all men and brought them together to adorn with songs her most radiant triumph. O come, let us join them and hasten to her.
Having opened the gates of the temple of God, the Glorious Gate’ through which human thoughts cannot pass now urges us to enter with her and to delight in her divine marvels.

Second Canon – Tone 1
Irmos Let us all sing a triumphant song unto God who has done wondrous things with His mighty arm, and has saved Israel: for He has been glorified.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Let us this day hasten together to the Theotokos, honouring her in songs, and let us keep spiritual feast. For she is offered in the temple as a gift to God.
Let us praise in songs the glorious advance of the Theotokos. For today as a precious gift she is prophetically offered in the temple, who is herself a Temple of God.
Ann without reproach greatly rejoiced, offering her child in the temple as a precious gift to God, while Joachim, bright with joy, kept feast with her.
David the forefather praised you of old in hymns, O Virgin Bride of God, calling you Daughter of Christ the King: Him you have borne as Mother and you have fed Him as your child.
The Theotokos, when she was three years old after the flesh, was led to the Lord; and Zacharias, the priest of God, received her in the temple with rejoicing and established her there.
You virgins carrying lamps, be of good cheer today and begin the song; you mothers, join them in praises to the Queen and Mother, as she enters the temple of Christ the King.
Glory…
O Trinity, one in essence, Father, Word, and Holy Spirit, with faith we glorify You as Maker of all, and in reverence we cry: Save us, O God.
Now…
The King and God goes forth wearing the purple dyed from your blood, O All-Undefiled. He has renewed all mankind in His compassion.
Katavasia (Tone 1) Christ is born, give glory. Christ comes from heaven, meet Him. Christ is on earth, be exalted. O all the earth, sing unto the Lord, and sing praises in gladness, O people, for He has been glorified.

ODE 3
First Canon
Irmos O Mother of God, living and plentiful fount, give strength to those united in spiritual fellowship, who sing hymns of praise to you: and on this day of your venerable entry, vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Today has the temple become a wedding adornment and a fair chamber for the Virgin, as it receives the living Bridal Chamber of God, pure and without spot, she who shines more brightly than all the creation.
David, leading the dance, leaps in gladness and rejoices with us, and you, O undefiled and all-pure Virgin, he calls the Queen, clad in raiment of many-coloured needlework, standing in the temple before the King and God.’
From Eve of old the transgression came upon mankind, and now from Eve’s stock has flowered forth our restoration and incorruption, even the Theotokos, who is brought today into the house of God.
The hosts of angels and the multitude of all mankind dance today before your face, O all-pure Lady, and carrying lamps they go before you, proclaiming your greatness in the house of God.

Second Canon
Irmos Let my heart be established in Your will, O Christ my God, who has established the second heaven above the waters, and has founded the earth upon the floods, in Your almighty power.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
O You who love the feasts, celebrate and be glad in spirit, exulting today in the holy feast of the Daughter of the King and the Mother of our God.
Be glad today, O Joachim, and rejoice exceedingly in spirit, O Ann, who now present unto the Lord your daughter, as a three-year old victim of sacrifice, holy and utterly without spot.
Dwelling-place of God, the Theotokos Mary, three years old after the flesh, is offered in the holy temple, and the virgins her companions, carrying lamps, go before her.
The ewe-lamb of God without spot, the dove without blemish, the tabernacle that is to hold God, the sanctuary of the glory, has chosen to dwell in the holy temple.
Three years old in the flesh and many years old in spirit, more spacious than the heavens and higher than the powers above, let the Bride of God be praised in song.
Celebrating the coming of the Theotokos into the sanctuary, let us too, carrying lamps today in spirit, go in joy with the virgins to the temple.
Priests of God, clothe yourselves by grace in righteousness, going in joy to meet the Daughter of the King and God as she enters the Holy Place.
Glory…
The Father is Light, His Son is Light, and the Spirit, the Comforter, is Light: for, shining forth as from one sun, the Trinity divinely illuminates and preserves our souls.
Now…
The prophets proclaimed you in ages past, speaking of you as ark of holiness, golden censer, candlestick, and table; and we sing your praises as the Tabernacle that held God.
Katavasia To the Son who was begotten of the Father without change before all ages, and in the last times was without seed made flesh of the Virgin, to Christ our God let us cry aloud: You have raised up our horn, holy are You, O Lord.

LITTLE EKTENY

SESSIONAL HYMN
(Tone 4) Cry out, O David, what is this present feast?* Is it for her of whom you have sung in the Book of Psalms,* calling her Daughter, Child of God and Virgin, saying:* ‘Her companions the virgins that follow her shall be mystically led unto the King?’* Make this feast to be held in honour throughout all the world by those who cry:* The Theotokos is come among us, mediator of salvation.
Glory… Now… [Repeat]

ODE 4
First Canon
Irmos Perceiving the unsearchable purpose of God concerning Your Incarnation from a Virgin, O Most High, the prophet Habakkuk cried: Glory to Your power, O Lord.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Today the house of God receives the Gate through which none may pass; so it has brought an end to the worship commanded by the shadow of the Law, and it cries aloud: ‘Verily the truth has appeared to those on earth.’
The overshadowed mountain that Habakkuk foresaw and announced prophetically in days of old, has come to dwell within the sanctuary of the temple; there she has put forth flowers of virtue and with her shadow she covers the ends of the earth.
Let us, with all the earth, look upon these marvellous, strange, and wonderful events: how the Virgin, receiving food from an angel, offers us an image of the divine dispensation.
Appearing as a Temple and a Palace and living Heaven, you are dedicated today in the temple of the Law, to be kept therein, O undefiled Bride of God.

Second Canon
Irmos O prophet Habakkuk, you have foreseen in spirit the Incarnation of the Word, and have proclaimed crying: ‘You shall be acknowledged when the years draw nigh; You shall be made manifest when the times come. Glory to Your power, O Lord.’
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
O prophet Isaiah, prophesy to us: who is the Virgin that shall conceive? ‘It is she who has come forth from the root of Judah and who was born of David the King, glorious fruit of a holy seed.’
O virgins, begin your songs, and with lamps in hand praise the advance of the pure Theotokos, who now enters the temple of the Lord, and keep feast with us.
Be glad, O Joachim and Ann, who now present unto the Lord in the temple, as a three-year old victim of sacrifice, your daughter that shall be the pure Mother of Christ our God, the King of all.
O venerable Holy of Holies, you love to dwell in the holy temple; and you abide, O Virgin, in converse with angels, receiving bread most marvellously from heaven, O you who sustains our life.
When all hope was gone, Joachim and Ann gave birth to the undefiled Virgin, and in piety they promised to offer her to God. Today they fulfil their promise, giving their child as a sacrifice in the house of God.
The rod of Aaron once put forth shoot, prefiguring, O undefiled Virgin, your divine childbirth. For without seed shall you conceive and not suffer corruption; and after bearing child shall you remain Virgin, giving suck to a babe who is God of all.
Virgins, with piety hasten to the Virgin, and mothers to the Mother: together let us honour the Child born to Joachim and Ann, as a blameless Sanctuary, and the Mother that bore Christ, as a holy Tree bringing forth fruit to God. Let us all joyously keep feast.
Glory…
Three in Persons, One in nature, in reverence we glorify the true God whose praises the hosts of angels and archangels sing as Master of the Creation; and in faith we all worship Him for ever.
Now…
O pure and undefiled Virgin, pray without ceasing to thy Son and God, whom you have conceived in the flesh, that He may deliver all thy servants from the manifold snares of the devil and from every temptation that assails us.
Katavasia Rod of the root of Jesse, and flower that blossomed from his stem, O Christ, You have sprung from the Virgin. From the Mountain overshadowed by the forest You have come, made flesh from her that knew not wedlock, O God who are not formed from matter. Glory to Your power, O Lord.’

ODE 5
First Canon
Irmos The whole world was amazed at your venerable entry. For you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock, yourself a Temple most pure, have gone within the temple of God, bestowing peace upon all who sing your praises.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Glorious sanctuary and holy offering, today the most pure Virgin is dedicated in the temple of God; and in ways which He alone understands, she is kept as a dwelling-place for our God, the King of all.
Seeing the beauty of thy soul, O undefiled Virgin, Zacharias cried out with faith: ‘You are our deliverance, you are the joy of all. You are our restoration, through whom the Incomprehensible appears comprehensible to me.’
O Virgin all-undefiled, past understanding are your wonders! Strange is the manner of your birth: strange is the manner of your growing. Strange and most marvellous are all things concerning you, O Bride of God, and they are beyond the telling of mortal man.
O candlestick with many lights, O Bride of God, you have shone forth today in the house of the Lord, and you give us light through the holy gifts of grace from your wonders, O pure and far-famed Theotokos.

Second Canon
Irmos O Christ our Master and God who loves man, cause the radiant and everlasting light to shine upon us, who ponder early in the morning upon the judgements of Your commandments.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Let us, the Orthodox, all hasten together with our lamps and glorify the Mother of God, for today she is offered to the Lord as an acceptable sacrifice.
Let the forefathers rejoice exceedingly today, O Lady, and let her that bore you make glad with your father: for their fruit is led unto the Lord.
Let us all, keeping feast in faith, sing the praises of the undefiled Maiden, most glorious and of many names, for she conceived in the flesh the divine Victim and sacrificial Offering.
The contract of your betrothal, the divine tokens of your Motherhood past understanding, O pure Virgin, are written today by the Holy Spirit in the house of God.
Let the forecourt of the glory of our God be opened and let it receive, as a victim of sacrifice three years old and without blemish, the Mother of God who was never to know wedlock.
Let us sing the praises of that greatly venerated and overshadowed mountain, the ever-Virgin who became the Mother of God. For she has made light shine to the ends of the earth.
Glory…
Let us glorify and worship the one Godhead in three Persons, undivided by nature and equal in glory, that was before the beginning and ever shall be.
Now…
We have your intercession, O Mother of God, as a fair haven and an unassailable rampart in times of trouble, and we are ever delivered from danger and affliction.
Katavasia As You are God of peace and Father of mercies, You have sent unto us Your Angel of great counsel, granting us peace. So are we guided towards the light of the knowledge of God, and watching by night we glorify You, O Lover of mankind.

ODE 6
First Canon
Irmos As we celebrate this sacred and solemn feast of the Mother of God, let us come, clapping our hands, O people of the Lord, and give glory to God who was born of her.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
He who supports all things with His word, in His mercy has hearkened unto the prayer of righteous Joachim and Ann: He has loosed them from the disease of barrenness and given them her that is the cause of our joy.
The Lord, wishing to make known to the Gentiles His salvation, has now chosen from among men her that knew not wedlock, to be a sign of reconciliation and renewal.
Being yourself, O Undefiled, a house of grace, in which are laid the treasures of the ineffable dispensation of God, you partake of boundless joy in the temple.
Having received you as a royal diadem, O Bride of God, the temple shone with beauty and gave place to better things, seeing in you the fulfilment of the prophecies.

Second Canon
Irmos With the prophet Jonah I shout: O You who are good, deliver my life from corruption and save me, O Saviour of the world, as I cry: Glory to You.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
O faithful, let us feast in spirit the Mother of God, singing her praises with piety. For she is indeed more holy than the heavenly powers.
O faithful, let us praise in spiritual songs the Mother of the Light, for today has she been manifested to us as she enters the temple of God.
The ewe-lamb without blemish, the pure dove, is brought as an offering to dwell in the house of God: the undefiled Virgin who was foreordained to become the Mother of God.
The Temple of God, the heavenly Tabernacle, accomplished her entry into the temple of the Law, and from her the Light has shone on us in darkness.
A child in the flesh but perfect in soul, the holy Ark enters into the house of God, there to feed upon divine grace.
By your intercessions set us free from every temptation and danger of soul, for we run to you, O far-famed Mother of Christ our God.
Glory…
Father, Son, and Spirit of righteousness, Unity in three persons and undivided Trinity, have mercy upon those who worship Your divine power.
Now…
He whom nothing can contain was contained in your womb, O undefiled Mother of God, and from you He has come forth double in nature, God and Man.
Katavasia The sea monster spat forth Jonah as it had received him, like a babe from the womb: while the Word, having dwelled in the Virgin and taken flesh, came forth from her yet kept her uncorrupt. For being Himself not subject to decay, He preserved His Mother free from harm.

KONTAKION
(Tone 4) The Saviour’s pure temple,* the precious bridal chamber and Virgin,* the sacred treasury of the glory of God,* is brought today into the house of the Lord; * and with her she brings the grace* of the divine Spirit.* God’s angels sing in praise of her:* She is indeed the heavenly dwelling place.

IKOS
Seeing the grace of the secret mysteries of God made manifest and clearly fulfilled in the Virgin, I rejoice; and I know not how to understand the strange and secret manner whereby the Undefiled has been revealed as alone chosen above all creation, visible and spiritual. Therefore, wishing to praise her, I am struck dumb with amazement in both mind and speech. Yet still I dare to proclaim and magnify her: She is indeed the heavenly Tabernacle.

ODE 7
First Canon
Irmos The Holy Children bravely trampled upon the threatening fire, preferring not to worship created things rather than the Creator, and they sang in joy: ‘Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our fathers.’
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Lo, a glad springtime has shone now to the ends of the earth, making our soul and understanding and mind bright through grace: for today is the feast of the Theotokos. Let us rejoice mystically.
Today let all things, heaven and earth, the ranks of angels and the multitude of mortal men, attend the Queen and Mother, and let them cry aloud: ‘Joy and deliverance is led into the temple.’
The written Law has passed away and vanished as a shadow, and the rays of grace have shone forth at your entry into the temple of God, O undefiled Virgin Mother, who are for ever blessed.
O undefiled Lady, heaven and earth and the things beneath the earth have been brought into subjection to your Son as Maker and God, and all mortal tongues confess that the Lord has appeared, the Saviour of our souls.’

Second Canon
Irmos The furnace was sprinkled with dew, O Saviour, and the Children danced for joy as they sang: ‘O God of our fathers, blessed are You.’
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Let us exult today in the joy of the feast; let us honour, as is meet, Joachim and Ann, and let us sing the praises of the undefiled Virgin.
Let David prophesy, who said in the spirit: ‘Virgins shall be brought after you; they shall be brought into the temple to the Queen and Mother.’
The ranks of angels rejoiced exceedingly and spirits of the righteous were glad, when the Mother of God was led into the sanctuary.
Mary without spot rejoiced in body and spirit, dwelling as a sacred vessel in the temple of the Lord.
Receiving heavenly food, she who was to become the Mother of Christ the Saviour according to the flesh, increased in wisdom and grace.
Your wise parents led you to the innermost part of the temple, O undefiled Virgin, there to be brought up in strange fashion and prepared as dwelling-place for Christ our God.
Glory…
Let us glorify the undivided Trinity, let us sing the praises of the one Godhead, the Father, the Word, and the Most Holy Spirit.
Now…
Pray the Lord whom you have borne, for He is compassionate by nature, to save the souls of those that sing your praises, O Mother of God.
Katavasia Scorning the impious decree, the Children brought up together in godliness feared not the threat of fire, but, standing in the midst of the flames, they sang: ‘O God of our fathers, blessed are You.’

ODE 8
First Canon
Irmos Hearken, O pure Virgin Maid: let Gabriel tell you the counsel of the Most High that is ancient and true. Make ready to receive God: for through you the Incomprehensible comes to dwell with mortal men. Therefore I cry rejoicing: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
As Ann led the undefiled Temple into the house of God, she cried aloud and said with faith to the priest: ‘Take the child given to me by God and lead her into the temple of thy Creator, and sing unto Him with joy: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’
When he saw Ann, Zacharias said to her in spirit: ‘You lead here the true Mother of life, whom the prophets of God heralded from afar as the Theotokos: and how shall the temple contain her? Therefore in wonder I cry: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’
‘I stand here as the suppliant of God,’ answered Ann to him, ‘calling upon Him with faith and prayer to receive the fruit of my travail. For I promised that after childbirth I would present my child to Him who gave her to me. Therefore, leaping for joy, I cry: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’
‘Truly this act is in accordance with the Law’, said the priest to her. ‘I perceive that this is a thing wholly strange: for I see led into the house of God her who wondrously surpasses the sanctuary in grace. Therefore I cry in joy: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’
‘Hearing your words,’ said Ann to him, ‘I am filled with new strength. For you understand these things by the Spirit of God, and hast clearly announced what shall come to pass in the Virgin. Take, then, the Undefiled into the temple of your Creator, and sing unto Him in joy: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’
‘A Lamp that gives light has been kindled for us,’ cried the priest, ‘and has made mighty joy shine in the temple. Let the souls of the prophets make glad with me, as they see strange wonders accomplished in the house of God, and let them now cry out: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’

Second Canon
Irmos Him before whom the angels and all the hosts of heaven are afraid, their Creator and Lord, O priests praise, O children glorify, O people bless and exalt above all for ever.
Refrain: Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Bright with joy today, Joachim makes glad; and Ann, without reproach, offers unto the Lord God the sacrifice given to her according to the promise, her holy daughter.
The saints David and Jesse exult today and Judah is filled with pride. For from their root a branch has sprung, the pure Virgin from whom pre-eternal God is to be born.
Today Mary, the undefiled and living Tabernacle, is offered up in the house of God, and Zacharias receives her in his hands as a holy treasure of the Lord.
As a Gate of salvation and a spiritual Mountain, as a living Ladder, let us, the faithful, honour the true Virgin and Mother of God, who is blessed by the hands of the priests.
Prophets, apostles and martyrs of Christ, ranks of angels and all the dwellers upon earth, let us honour with hymns the pure Virgin, for she is the blessed Mother of the Most High.
They that divinely bore you, O Undefiled and Pure, offered you in the temple as a spotless sacrifice; and in strange fashion you lodge in the sanctuary of God, there to be prepared as a dwelling-place for the Word.
We bless the Lord, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Let ‘Holy, Holy, Holy’ be sung to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, indivisible Unity, one Godhead, that holds all creation in the hollow of the hand unto all ages.
Now…
He who is without beginning, begins: from a Virgin Maid the Word is born in the flesh according to His good pleasure, God and mortal man, and in His extreme compassion He refashions us who had fallen.
We praise, bless, and worship the Lord; we extol and exalt Him above all for ever.
Katavasia The furnace moist with dew was the image and figure of a wonder past nature. For it burned not the Children whom it had received, even as the fire of the Godhead consumed not the Virgin’s womb into which it had descended. Therefore in praise let us sing: Let the whole creation bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever.

ODE 9
First Canon
Beholding the entry of the All-Pure,
the angels were struck with amazement,
seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies.
Irmos Let no profane hand touch the living Ark of God, but let the lips of the faithful, singing without ceasing the words of the Angel to the Theotokos, cry aloud in great joy: O pure Virgin, thou art truly high above all.
Beholding the entry of the All-Pure,
the angels were struck with amazement,
seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies.
O pure Theotokos, you have a clean and shining beauty of soul, and are filled from heaven with the grace of God. You ever enlighten with eternal light those who cry aloud in gladness: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all.
Beholding the entry of the All-Pure,
the angels were struck with amazement,
seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies.
Your wonders, O pure Theotokos, surpass the power of words. For in you I see something beyond speech: a body that was never subject to the taint of sin. Therefore in thanksgiving I cry to you: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all.
Angels and men, let us honour the entry of the Virgin,
for in glory she has gone into the Holy of Holies.
The Law prefigured thee most wonderfully as tabernacle, jar of manna, strange ark, veil of the temple, rod of Aaron, temple never to be destroyed, and gate of God;’ and so it teaches us to cry to you: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all.
Beholding the entry of the All-Pure,
the angels were struck with amazement,
seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies.
David sang in honour of you, calling you the daughter of the King, for he saw you in the beauty of the virtues, in raiment of many-coloured needlework, at the right hand of God; therefore in prophecy he cried aloud: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all.
O angels, dance with the saints: O virgins, make glad with them.
For the Child of God has entered into the Holy of Holies.
Solomon, foreseeing how you were to receive God, spoke of you in dark sayings as the gate of the King and the living fountain sealed, from which came forth untroubled waters unto us who cry aloud with faith: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all.
Angels and men, let us magnify the Virgin in hymns,
for she has entered into the Holy of Holies, as was divinely fit.
Grant to my soul, O Theotokos, the calm peace that comes from your gifts of grace. You are a fountain of life unto those that honour you as is due; you surround, protect, and preserve us that we may cry aloud to you: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all.

Second Canon
Megalynarion (sung before the irmos and the troparia):
O my soul,
magnify her who was led into the temple of the Lord
and blessed by the hands of the priests.
Irmos Let us all magnify the radiant cloud, in which the Master of all descended, as dew from heaven upon the fleece,’ and for our sake took flesh and was made man, He who is without beginning: for she is the pure Mother of our God.
From the righteous Joachim and Ann a fruit came forth according to the promise, Mary the Child of God. A young girl after the flesh, as acceptable incense she is offered in the holy temple, that she who is herself holy may dwell in the Holy Place.
Let us praise in hymns the child by nature who was shown forth as Mother beyond nature. For today she is offered to the Lord in the temple of the Law as a sweet-smelling savour, the spiritual fruit of her righteous parents.
O faithful, offering to the Theotokos the salutation of the angel, let us raise our cry: Hail! O Bride most beautiful. Hail! bright cloud; from thee the Lord has shone forth upon us as we sat in the darkness of ignorance. Hail! you Hope of all.
All the creation joins the angel Gabriel, crying out to the Theotokos in fitting song: Hail! undefiled Mother of God. Through you we have been delivered from the ancient curse and have become partakers of incorruption.
O Holy of Holies and pure Mother of God, Mary, from the snares of the enemy and from every heresy and affliction, at your intercessions set us free who venerate with faith the ikon of your holy form.
Far greater than the cherubim, high above the seraphim, and more spacious than the heavens, are you shown forth, O Virgin, for you have contained in your womb our God whom nothing can contain, and have ineffably borne Him: entreat Him earnestly on our behalf.
O my soul, magnify the power of the indivisible Godhead in three Persons.
Let us glorify the one Nature in three Persons, the one indivisible glory, the undivided Trinity in one Godhead that is praised without ceasing in heaven and on earth; in piety let us worship the Father, with the Son and the Spirit.
O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honour and more glorious than the hosts above.
O Virgin Mother of God, intercede for those who with faith seek refuge beneath thy compassion, and who piously worship thy Son as God and Lord of the world, that they be delivered from corruption and danger and manifold temptations.
Beholding the entry of the All-Pure, the angels were struck with amazement, seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies.
Katavasia A strange and most wonderful mystery do I see: the cave is heaven; the Virgin the throne of the cherubim; the manger a room, in which Christ, the God whom nothing can contain, is laid. Him do we praise and magnify.

Hymn Of Light, Tone 3
Let us praise in faith Mary the Child of God,* whom long ago the assembly of prophets foretold,* speaking of her as jar of manna and Aaron’s rod,* tablet of the Law and uncut mountain.* For she is led today into the Holy of Holies, there to be brought up to the Lord.

Glory…

Let us praise in faith Mary the Child of God,* whom long ago the assembly of prophets foretold,* speaking of her as jar of manna and Aaron’s rod,* tablet of the Law and uncut mountain.* For she is led today into the Holy of Holies, there to be brought up to the Lord.

Now…

Let us praise in faith Mary the Child of God,* whom long ago the assembly of prophets foretold,* speaking of her as jar of manna and Aaron’s rod,* tablet of the Law and uncut mountain.* For she is led today into the Holy of Holies, there to be brought up to the Lord.

At The Praises, Tone 1
The virgins bearing lamps, who with their light accompany the ever-Virgin,* verily prophesy the future in Spirit.* For the Temple of God, the Theotokos, with virginal glory enters* as a little child into the temple.

The Theotokos, glorious fruit of a sacred promise,* is truly revealed unto the world as higher than all creation.* Piously led into the house of God,* she fulfils the vow of her parents* and she is preserved by the Holy Spirit.

O Virgin, fed in faith by heavenly bread in the temple of the Lord,* you have brought forth unto the world the Bread of life that is the Word;* and as His chosen Temple without spot, you were betrothed mystically through the Spirit,* to be the Bride of God the Father.

Let the gate of the temple wherein God dwells be opened:* for Joachim brings within today in glory the Temple and Throne of the King of all,* and he consecrates as an offering to God* her whom the Lord has chosen to be His Mother.

In Tone 2, Glory… Now…

Today the Virgin without blemish is led to the temple,* to become the habitation of God the King of all, who sustains our life.* Today as a three-year-old victim of sacrifice the most pure Sanctuary is led into the Holy of Holies.* To her let us cry out with the angel:* Hail! you who alone are blessed among women.

Troparion, Tone 4
Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan.

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 4: Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 4: The Saviour’s pure temple,* the precious bridal chamber and Virgin,* the sacred treasury of the glory of God,* is brought today into the house of the Lord;* and with her she brings the grace of the divine Spirit.* God’s angels sing in praise of her:* She is indeed the heavenly dwelling-place.

Prokeimenon, Tone 3
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour.
verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46-48)

Epistle
Hebrew 9:1-7

Alleluia, Tone 8
verse: Hear, O daughter, and see, and incline your ear.
verse: The rich among the people shall entreat your countenance. (Psalm 44:11,13)

Gospel
Luke 10:38-42, 11:27-28

Hymn to the Mother of God
Seeing the entrance of the pure one, angels marvel in wonder how the Virgin could enter the holy of holies.
And the Irmos, Tone 4: Let no hand of the profane touch God’s living ark,* but instead let the lips of those who are believers* sing out ceaselessly in the words of the angel,* crying out with great joy to the Mother of God:* O pure Virgin,* you are truly higher than all.

Communion Hymn
I will take the cup of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 115:13)

 

Matthew, son of Alphaeus, was a tax collector when the Lord saw him in Capernaum and said: Follow Me. And he arose, and followed Him (Matthew 9:9). After that, Matthew prepared a reception for the Lord in his home and thus provided the occasion for the Lord to express several great truths about His coming to earth. After receiving the Holy Spirit, Matthew preached the Gospel to the Parthians, Medes and Ethiopians. In Ethiopia he appointed his follower Plato as bishop, and withdrew to prayerful solitude on a mountain, where the Lord appeared to him. Matthew baptized the wife and the son of the prince of Ethiopia, at which the prince became greatly enraged and dispatched a guard to bring Matthew to him for trial. The soldiers returned to the prince saying that they had heard Matthew’s voice, but could not see him with their eyes. The prince then sent a second guard. When this guard approached the apostle, he shone with a heavenly light so powerful that the soldiers could not look at him; filled with fear, they threw down their weapons and returned. The prince then went himself. Matthew radiated such light that the prince was instantly blinded. However, the holy apostle had a compassionate heart; he prayed to God, and the prince was given back his sight. Unfortunately, he saw only with physical eyes and not spiritual eyes. He arrested Matthew and subjected him to cruel tortures. Twice, a large fire was lighted on his chest, but the power of God preserved him alive and unharmed. Then the apostle prayed to God and gave up his spirit. The prince commanded that the martyr’s body be placed in a lead coffin and thrown into the sea. The saint appeared to Bishop Plato and told him where the coffin bearing his body could be found. The bishop retrieved the coffin with Matthew’s body from the sea. Witnessing this new miracle, the prince was baptized and received the name Matthew. After that, the prince left all the vanity of the world and became a presbyter and served the Church in a God-pleasing way. When Plato died, the Apostle Matthew appeared to the presbyter Matthew and counseled him to accept the episcopacy. He accepted the bishopric and, for many years, was a good shepherd until the Lord called him to His Immortal Kingdom. St. Matthew the Apostle wrote his Gospel in the Aramaic language. It was soon after translated into Greek and the Greek text has come down to us, while the Aramaic text has been lost. It is said of this evangelist that he never ate meat, but only vegetables and fruit. (Prologue of Ohrid)

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GREAT VESPERS

 

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man…” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 6

10. O Christ, You won the victory over Hades,
You ascended the Cross so that You might raise up with Yourself
all those who dwelt in the darkness of death.
Almighty Saviour, You are free from death
and bestow life by Your divine light.
We, therefore, beseech You to have mercy on us.

9. Today Christ has conquered Death.
He has risen from the grave as He foretold,
bestowing great joy upon the world.
Therefore, let us all lift up our voices and sing:
O Fount of Life, O Light Whom no one can approach,
Almighty Saviour, have mercy on us.

8. O Lord, where can we sinners flee from You,
for You are present in all creation?
You are present in heaven, for it is Your dwelling place.
Your power prevails in Hades where You conquered Death.
O Master, Your sustaining hand touches even the depths of the sea.
Where, then, can we take refuge except in You?
We, therefore, prostrate ourselves before You and pray:
O Lord, risen from the dead, have mercy on us.

7. We exult in Your Cross, O Christ,
and we sing the glory of Your Resurrection.
For You are our God, and we have no other Lord but You.

In Tone 4

6. The searcher of the hearts of men
inspired your mind, Apostle, with His divine knowledge:
He called you to Himself, ransoming you from the world’s deceit:
for He is the light whose rays shine to the ends of the earth.
He commanded you to proclaim His Word.
He made you worthy to write His Holy Gospel:
pray that He may enlighten and save our souls.

5. The searcher of the hearts of men
inspired your mind, Apostle, with His divine knowledge:
He called you to Himself, ransoming you from the world’s deceit:
for He is the light whose rays shine to the ends of the earth.
He commanded you to proclaim His Word.
He made you worthy to write His Holy Gospel:
pray that He may enlighten and save our souls.

4. Once a publican, now a disciple, you accepted the urgent call of the Eternal Word.
You abandoned the collection of the taxes,
eager for the promise of communion in His Kingdom;
you cast away the raging tumult of this life.
Now you behold His glory face to face:
pray that He may enlighten and save our souls.

3. Once a publican, now a disciple, you accepted the urgent call of the Eternal Word.
You abandoned the collection of the taxes,
eager for the promise of communion in His Kingdom;
you cast away the raging tumult of this life.
Now you behold His glory face to face:
pray that He may enlighten and save our souls.

2. In days of old, as the earth lay waste in evil,
the prophet Daniel was endowed with clearness of sight.
He beheld a stone, cut without human hands from a mountain:
a stone which ground the riches of earthly kingdoms to dust.
In the fullness of time this all-wise Lord came down to earth:
passing by the customs-house, He chose you to be His herald,
He called you, who once served an earthly kingdom,
to serve Him, the Light of the world,
pray to Him, blessed Matthew, that He may enlighten and save our souls.

1. In days of old, as the earth lay waste in evil,
the prophet Daniel was endowed with clearness of sight.
He beheld a stone, cut without human hands from a mountain:
a stone which ground the riches of earthly kingdoms to dust.
In the fullness of time this all-wise Lord came down to earth:
passing by the customs-house, He chose you to be His herald,
He called you, who once served an earthly kingdom,
to serve Him, the Light of the world,
pray to Him, blessed Matthew, that He may enlighten and save our souls.

Glory…

You were called by Christ to heavenly discipleship;
you followed Him eagerly, chosen one of God.
He delivered you from subjection to earthly cares;
abandoning the vain collection of tribute,
you faithfully kept the accounts of the heavenly King.
Blessed evangelist, you are a light for those who dwell in darkness,
a guide to salvation for those who wander astray,
Matthew, the herald of glad tidings, pray for those who honour you!

In Tone 6, Now…

Who would not call you blessed, O Virgin most holy?
Who would not sing a hymn of praise
to the glory of your giving birth without pain or travail?
The Only-begotten Son Himself,
begotten of the Father before all ages,
was made flesh out of you in a manner
that cannot be explained, O Woman most pure!
And for our sake, He Who is God by nature
assumed the nature of a man.
He is not divided into two persons;
He is understood to have two natures
without commixion or confusion.
O noble and blessed Woman,
intercede with Him that He may mercy on our souls.

 

Readings

1 Peter 1:1-2:6; 1 Peter 2:21-3:9; 1 Peter 4:1-11

 

Aposticha

In Tone 6

O Christ our Saviour,
the angels in heaven sing the praises of Your Resurrection;
make us on earth also worthy
to extol You with a pure heart.

The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength.

Almighty God, You destroyed the brazen gates and bars of Hades,
and raised up fallen mankind.
Therefore, with one accord, we cry out:
O Lord, risen from the dead, glory to You!

For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved.

Christ willed to renew us from our corruption of old
by being nailed to a cross and placed in a tomb.
When the women came to anoint His body they tearfully cried out:
O, what sorrow afflicts us!
O Saviour of All, how could You consent to occupy a grave?
If you truly willed this, then why did You allow Your body to be stolen?
How were You removed?
What place now conceals Your life-bearing body?
O Lord, appear to us as You promised
and put an end to out tears.
As they were lamenting, an angel appeared and cried out to them:
Do not weep, but tell the Apostles that the Lord is risen,
granting sanctification and great mercy to the world.

Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days.

O Christ, You were crucified of Your free will,
and by Your burial You imprisoned Death.
As God, You rose in glory on the third day,
granting life and great mercy to the world.

In Tone 6, Glory…

The full stature of goodness is made manifest in you, blessed Matthew:
in the fullness of time you abandoned the occupation of an evil age,
soaring as an eagle to the heights of righteousness,
you have filled the earth with the wisdom hidden from all eternity,
following fervently in the footsteps of Christ,
you have borne the Gospel of peace, life, and salvation to men,
filling with divine commandments those who hunger after righteousness,
blessed guide, well-pleasing to the Creator,
pray for us who bless your memory.

Now…

Christ the Lord, our Creator and Redeemer,
came forth from your womb, O most pure Virgin.
He clothed Himself in our human flesh
to set us free from the original curse of Adam.
Therefore, O Mary, we praise you, without ceasing,
as the true Virgin Mother of God,
and we sing with the angels:
Rejoice, O Lady, advocate, protector, and salvation of our souls.

 

Troparia

In Tone 6
Angelic powers were upon Your tomb* and the guards became like dead men;* Mary stood before Your tomb* seeking Your most pure body.* You captured Hades without being overcome by it.* You met the Virgin and granted life.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory to You!

In Tone 3, Glory…
O Matthew, proclaimer of God’s word,* you earnestly turned from the tax collector’s booth* and followed the Master, who our His love* appeared to us on earth and summoned you.* You shone to the world as chosen apostle and loud herald of the Good News.* Because of this we feast your memory;* pray to God all-merciful* for the forgiveness of sins.

Now…
We sing your praises, O Virgin;* for, as the Mother of God, you always intercede for the salvation of the human race.* It is from you that our God and Your Son took flesh. * Then, by suffering the passion on the Cross,** and out of love for mankind, He delivered us from corruption.

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 6: Angelic powers were upon Your tomb* and the guards became like dead men;* Mary stood before Your tomb* seeking Your most pure body.* You captured Hades without being overcome by it.* You met the Virgin and granted life.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory be to You!

Troparion, Tone 3: O Matthew, proclaimer of God’s word,* you earnestly turned from the tax collector’s booth* and followed the Master, who our His love* appeared to us on earth and summoned you.* You shone to the world as chosen apostle and loud herald of the Good News.* Because of this we feast your memory;* pray to God all-merciful* for the forgiveness of sins.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

Kontakion, Tone 6: With His life-giving hand* Christ our God, the Giver of life,* raised all the dead from the murky abyss* and bestowed resurrection upon humanity.* He is for all the Saviour,* the resurrection and the life, and the God of all.

Now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 4: Casting off the yoke of the custom house* you yoked yourself to justice;* revealed as an excellent merchant* you gained wisdom—wealth from on high.* From whence you preached the word of truth,* arousing sluggish souls by describing the hour of judgment.

Prokeimenon, Tone 6
Save Your people, O Lord,* and bless Your inheritance.
verse: Unto You I will cry, O Lord, my God, lest You turn from me in silence. (Psalm27:9,1)

Prokeimenon, Tone 8
Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth, and their word unto the ends of the world. (Psalm 18:5)

Epistle
Ephesians 2:4-10; 1 Corinthians 4:9-16

Alleluia, Tone 6
verse: He who lives in the aid of the Most High, shall dwell under the protection of the God of heaven.
verse: He says to the Lord: You are my protector and my refuge, my God, in Whom I hope. (Psalm 90:1,2)
verse: The heavens shall confess our wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints.
verse: God is glorified in the assembly of the saints. (Psalm 88:6,8)

Gospel
Luke 8:26-39; Matthew 9:9-13

Communion Hymn
Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest.* (Psalm 148:1)* Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their word unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5)

Philip was born in Bethsaida beside the Sea of Galilee, as were Peter and Andrew. Instructed in Holy Scripture from his youth, Philip immediately responded to the call of the Lord Jesus and followed Him (John 1:43). After the descent of the Holy Spirit, Philip zealously preached the Gospel throughout many regions in Asia and Greece. In Greece, the Jews wanted to kill him, but the Lord saved him by His mighty miracles. Thus, a Jewish high priest that rushed at Philip to beat him was suddenly blinded and turned completely black. Then there was a great earthquake, and the earth opened up and swallowed Philip’s wicked persecutor. Many other miracles were manifested, especially the healing of the sick, by which many pagans believed in Christ. In the Phrygian town of Hierapolis, St. Philip found himself in common evangelical work with his sister Mariamna, St. John the Theologian, and the Apostle Bartholomew. In this town there was a dangerous snake that the pagans diligently fed and worshiped as a god. God’s apostle killed the snake through prayer as though with a spear, but he also incurred the wrath of the unenlightened people. The wicked pagans seized Philip and crucified him upside-down on a tree, and then crucified Bartholomew as well. At that, the earth opened up and swallowed the judge and many other pagans with him. In great fear, the people rushed to rescue the crucified apostles, but only Bartholomew was still alive; Philip had already breathed his last. Bartholomew ordained Stachys as bishop for those whom he and Philip had baptized. Stachys had been blind for forty years, and Bartholomew and Philip had healed and baptized him. The relics of St. Philip were later translated to Rome. This wonderful apostle suffered in the year 86 in the time of Emperor Dometian. (Prologue of Ohrid)

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GREAT VESPERS FOR POLYELEOS

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 6

8. Having established action, blessed one, as an entrance into true vision,
and vision as the end of divine action,
you implored Christ to show you the ineffable glory of the Father,
for every reasonable creature desires witness of God.
You received the desired, glorious one, of which the Son is the image!
Pray to Him boldly for our souls!

7. Having established action, blessed one, as an entrance into true vision,
and vision as the end of divine action,
you implored Christ to show you the ineffable glory of the Father,
for every reasonable creature desires witness of God.
You received the desired, glorious one, of which the Son is the image!
Pray to Him boldly for our souls!

6. Having established action, blessed one, as an entrance into true vision,
and vision as the end of divine action,
you implored Christ to show you the ineffable glory of the Father,
for every reasonable creature desires witness of God.
You received the desired, glorious one, of which the Son is the image!
Pray to Him boldly for our souls!

5. As Moses of old, you were instructed by divine ascent.
Desiring to see God you spiritually saw His image.
You accepted the Son as knowledge and testimony of the Father,
for they are known as one Being: the Unity honourably exalted by all,
the kingdom, power, glory and worship!

4. As Moses of old, you were instructed by divine ascent.
Desiring to see God you spiritually saw His image.
You accepted the Son as knowledge and testimony of the Father,
for they are known as one Being: the Unity honourably exalted by all,
the kingdom, power, glory and worship!

3. As Moses of old, you were instructed by divine ascent.
Desiring to see God you spiritually saw His image.
You accepted the Son as knowledge and testimony of the Father,
for they are known as one Being: the Unity honourably exalted by all,
the kingdom, power, glory and worship!

2. God-seer Philip, you proclaimed with divine inspiration
and the teaching of the Holy Spirit,
sounding the Saviour’s heavenly Gospel in the world with a fiery tongue.
You burned all deceit to ashes like dried grass.
You proclaimed the Lord Christ in the universe,
Who is master over all.

1. God-seer Philip, you proclaimed with divine inspiration
and the teaching of the Holy Spirit,
sounding the Saviour’s heavenly Gospel in the world with a fiery tongue.
You burned all deceit to ashes like dried grass.
You proclaimed the Lord Christ in the universe,
Who is master over all.

Glory…

You burn with the brilliance of a great light, O Philip,
shining as a light of the universe.
Seeking the light of God you found illumination in the Son,
whose image is equal to the first image.
Implore Him, Apostle, to save those sealed by divine blood.

Now…

Who would not call you blessed,
O Virgin most holy?
Who would not sing a hymn of praise
to the glory of your giving birth
without pain or travail?
The Only-begotten Son Himself,
begotten of the Father before all ages,
was made flesh out of you in a manner
that cannot be explained, O Woman most pure!
And for our sake, He Who is God by nature
assumed the nature of a man.
He is not divided into two persons;
He is understood to have two natures
without commixion or confusion.
O noble and blessed Woman,
intercede with Him that He may mercy on our souls.

 

Readings

1 Peter 1:1-2:6; 1 Peter 2:21-3:9; 1 Peter 4:1-11

 

Aposticha

In Tone 6

Your heavenly proclamation, O blessed one,
has resounded throughout the world,
filling it with divine dogmas,
mystically blessing the Father, Son and Spirit!
apostle, we glorify the one essence.
Their proclamation has gone out into all the earth,
and their words to the ends of the universe!

Their proclamation has gone out into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the universe!

Thrice-blessed Philip,
as the light-bearer of Christ’s apostles,
you possess the bright light of the honourable church.
Our souls, all-praised one, are enlightened by your prayers,
and delivered from fierce calamities.

The heavens are telling the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork!

Worthy Philip,
having finished your task by suffering on the cross,
you were given the crown of victory.
Therefore you have entered the heavenly kingdom!
Apostle, as you stand before Christ, implore him to save us!

In Tone 2, Glory…

Apostle Philip, your mouth is a vessel of sweet spices,
pouring out a life-giving drink for the faithful.
Entering by action into vision, you welcomed and followed Christ.
You adorned the barren and childless church of the pagans,
by teaching and increasing her children.
You can do much since you are near to God:
pray that the church may be saved from need and distress!

Now…

O wondrous event exceeding every miracle that ever happened!
who has ever heard that a mother could conceive without a man,
and that she would hold in her arms the One who contains the whole universe
This was the will of the One who was born of you.
Woman most pure,
Never cease to intercede for those who honour you,
Together with the One you carried in your arms as a child.
You have the power of a Mother:
Therefore intercede with Him that
He may have mercy on us
And save our souls.

 

Troparia

In Tone 3

O holy apostle Philip,* pray to the merciful God* that he may grant to our souls* remission of our transgressions!

Glory… Now…

We sing your praises, O Virgin;* for, as the Mother of God, you always intercede for the salvation of the human race.* It is from you that our God and Your Son took flesh. * Then, by suffering the passion on the Cross,** and out of love for mankind, He delivered us from corruption.

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 3: O Philip, proclaimer of God’s word,* the world is adorned and Ethiopia dances for joy* for it is arrayed in beauty as with a crown.* Enlightened by you it feasts your memory.* For you taught all to believe in Christ,* finishing the course of the Gospel as is right.* And so, Ethiopia boldly lifts up its hands to God.* Pray to Him to grant great mercy to us.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 8: The God-inspired Philip,* Your friend, disciple and imitator of the Passion,* proclaimed You as God to the whole world,* O Christ, all merciful.* By his intercessions* and those of the Mother of God* guard Your Church and every city* from lawless enemies.

Prokeimenon, Tone 8
Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth, and their word unto the ends of the world.
verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hands. (Psalm 18:5,2)

Epistle
1 Corinthians 4:9-16

Alleluia, Tone 1
verse: The heavens shall confess our wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints.
verse: God is glorified in the assembly of the saints. (Psalm 88:6,8)

Gospel
John 1:43-51

Communion Hymn
Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their word unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5)

John was born in Antioch in the year 354. His father, Secundus, was an imperial commander and his mother’s name was Anthusa. Studying Greek philosophy, John became disgusted with Hellenic paganism and adopted the Christian Faith as the one and all-embracing truth. Meletius, Patriarch of Antioch, baptized John, and his parents also subsequently received baptism. Following his parents’ repose, John was tonsured a monk and lived a strict life of asceticism. He then wrote a book, On the Priesthood, after which the Holy Apostles John and Peter appeared to him, and prophesied that he would have a life of great service, great grace and great suffering. When he was to be ordained a priest, an angel of God appeared simultaneously to John and to Patriarch Flavian (Meletius’s successor). While the patriarch was ordaining John, a shining white dove was seen hovering over John’s head. Glorified for his wisdom, asceticism and power of words, John was chosen as Patriarch of Constantinople at the behest of Emperor Arcadius. As patriarch, he governed the Church for six years with unequalled zeal and wisdom. He sent missionaries to the pagan Celts and Scythians and eradicated simony in the Church, deposing many bishops guilty of this vice. He extended the charitable works of the Church and wrote a special order of the Divine Liturgy. He shamed the heretics, denounced Empress Eudoxia, interpreted Holy Scripture with his golden mind and tongue, and bequeathed the Church many precious books of his homilies. The people glorified him, the envious loathed him, and the Empress, on two occasions, sent him into exile. John spent three years in exile, and reposed as an exile on the Feast of the Elevation of the Precious and Life-giving Cross, September 14, 407, in the town of Comana in Georgia. Before his repose, the Holy Apostles John and Peter appeared to him again, as did the Holy Martyr Basiliscus (May 22) in whose church he received Communion for the last time. His last words were, “Glory be to God for all things,” and with that, the soul of the golden-mouthed patriarch was taken into Paradise. Chrysostom’s head reposes in the Church of the Dormition in Moscow, and his body reposes in the Vatican in Rome. (Prologue of Ohrid)

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GREAT VESPERS FOR POLYELEOS SAINT

 

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man” is sung.

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 4

6. Let us praise in song
the God-inspired instrument and golden-forged trumpet,
the boundless depth of dogma,
the affirmation of the Church and the heavenly mind,
the depth of wisdom and the chalice of purest gold
that poured forth sweet rivers of learning
and nourished all creation.

5. Let us praise in song
the God-inspired instrument and golden-forged trumpet,
the boundless depth of dogma,
the affirmation of the Church and the heavenly mind,
the depth of wisdom and the chalice of purest gold
that poured forth sweet rivers of learning
and nourished all creation.

4. Let us worthily honour John of the golden words,
the never-setting star which enlightens everything under the sun
with his rays of teaching.
He is the preacher of penance
and the sponge of purest gold
which removes the cruel dampness of ignorance.
He gives life to hearts that are torn by sin.

3. Let us worthily honour John of the golden words,
the never-setting star which enlightens everything under the sun
with his rays of teaching.
He is the preacher of penance
and the sponge of purest gold
which removes the cruel dampness of ignorance.
He gives life to hearts that are torn by sin.

2. Let Chrysostom be exalted,
for he is the earthly angel and the heavenly man,
the eagle of great and good speech
and the treasury of virtues.
He is the firm rock and the example of the faithful,
the one who is like the martyrs
and who stands equal with the angels,
for his teaching was the same as the apostles.

1. Let Chrysostom be exalted,
for he is the earthly angel and the heavenly man,
the eagle of great and good speech
and the treasury of virtues.
He is the firm rock and the example of the faithful,
the one who is like the martyrs
and who stands equal with the angels,
for his teaching was the same as the apostles.

In Tone 6, Glory…

O thrice-venerable and most holy Father,
you are the good shepherd and the student of Christ the chief Shepherd
who gave his life for his flock.
Now, ever-praised John Chrysostom,
grant that through your prayers we may receive great mercy.

Now…

Who would not call you blessed, O Virgin most holy?
Who would not sing a hymn of praise
to the glory of your giving birth without pain or travail?
The Only-begotten Son Himself,
begotten of the Father before all ages,
was made flesh out of you in a manner
that cannot be explained, O Woman most pure!
And for our sake, He Who is God by nature
assumed the nature of a man.
He is not divided into two persons;
He is understood to have two natures
without commixion or confusion.
O noble and blessed Woman,
intercede with Him that He may mercy on our souls.

 

Prokimenon
of the day

 

Readings

Proverbs 10:6-8; 8:6-21; Wisdom 8:17-21; 9:1-4; Wisdom 4:1, 6-20

 

Aposticha

In Tone 5

Rejoice, O golden, glittering, and beautiful God-inspired instrument of the Church.
Rejoice, O orator who with loving-kindness
prescribed for us various examples of penance.
Rejoice, O golden-formed mind,
golden-tongued swallow, and dove who radiated virtues on green pastures.
Rejoice, most golden stream which pours firth the waters of divine speech,
the stream entrusted with the divine love for the human race.
Ask Christ to send great mercy to our souls.

My lips will speak words of wisdom. My heart is full of insight.

Rejoice, father of orphans and quick helper of the needy.
Rejoice, benefactor of the poor,
food of the hungry, and corrector of those who sin.
Rejoice, most honourable and most pleasing healer of souls.
Rejoice, sublime knowledge of theology
and narrator of spiritual writings.
Rejoice, keeper of the law and retainer of the most just order.
Rejoice, O sublime wisdom of visions and deeds.
Ask Christ to send great mercy to our souls.

The mouth of the just utters wisdom, and his lips speak what is right.

O Chrysostom, the Church sings to you:
Rejoice in Christ, your Bridegroom.
For by your virtues and your words,
you have enlightened the world more than the rays of the sun.
Rejoice, O wisest of men, greater than all other orators.
Rejoice, defender of the true faith.
You are the one who uncovered falseness, O teacher of penance.
Rejoice, quiet depth of knowledge,
who like the great Paul followed Christ completely.
Now ask Christ to send great mercy to our souls.

In Tone 6, Glory…

O Chrysostom, you spoke most purely
and showed yourself to be the golden-sounding trumpet.
You purified the hearts of the faithful
by your true and dedicated teaching.
The message of your teaching
has gone forth prophetically, O venerable Father,
and you have enlightened the ends of the earth.

Now…

Christ the Lord, our Creator and Redeemer,
came forth from your womb, O most pure Virgin.
He clothed Himself in our human flesh
to set us free from the original curse of Adam.
Therefore, O Mary, we praise you, without ceasing,
as the true Virgin Mother of God,
and we sing with the angels:
Rejoice, O Lady, advocate, protector, and salvation of our souls.

 

Troparia

In Tone 8

Grace shone forth from your mouth like a fiery beacon* and enlightened the universe,* bestowing on the world not the treasures of greed,* but rather showing us the heights of humility.* As you teach us by your words, O John Chrysostom, our father,** intercede with the Word, Christ our God, for the salvation of our souls.

Glory… Now…

O gracious Lord, for the sake of mankind You were born of a virgin;* through Your death on the cross You conquered death;* and through Your resurrection You revealed yourself as God.* O merciful Lord, do not disdain those whom You have created with Your own hands,* but show forth Your love for mankind.* Accept the intercession which the Mother, who bore You, makes in our behalf.** O Saviour, save Your despairing people!

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 8: Grace shone forth from your mouth like a fiery beacon* and enlightened the universe,* bestowing on the world not the treasures of greed,* but rather showing us the heights of humility.* As you teach us by your words, O John Chrysostom, our father,* intercede with the Word, Christ our God, for the salvation of our souls.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 6: From heaven you received divine grace;* your lips have taught us all to worship the Triune God,* O blessed John Chrysostom.* It is fitting that we praise you;* for you are a teacher clarifying things divine.

Prokeimenon, Tone 1
My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart understanding.
verse: Hear these things, all you nations; give ear al you inhabitants of the world. (Psalm 48:4,2)

Epistle
Hebrews 7:26-8:2

Alleluia, Tone 2
verse: The mouth of the just man shall meditate wisdom and his tongue shall speak judgement.
verse: The law of God is in his heart, and his steps will not falter. (Psalm 36:3-31)

Gospel
John 10:9-16

Communion Hymn
The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6)