January 31, 2016
Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare), Octoechos Tone 3; The Holy Wonderworkers and Unmercenaries Cyrus and John (284-305)

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 3

  1. Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name.

By Your Cross, O Christ our Saviour,
the power of Death has been vanquished
and the deceit of the devil has been destroyed.
Therefore, mankind, saved by faith,
offers You hymns of praise forever.

  1. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me.

O Lord, all creation has been enlightened by Your resurrection,
and Paradise has been reopened;
therefore, all creation extols You
and offers You hymns of praise forever.

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

I glorify the powers of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit;
and I praise the dominion of the undivided Divinity,
the consubstantial Trinity,
Who reigns forever and ever.

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

We adore Your precious Cross, O Christ,
and with hymns of praise we glorify Your Resurrection;
for by Your wounds we have all been healed.

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

Let us sing the praises of the Saviour,
Who was incarnate of the Virgin;
for He was crucified for our sake,
and on the third day He arose from the dead,
granting us His great mercy.

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

Christ descended into Hades and announced to those confined there:
Take courage, for today I have conquered death.
I am the Resurrection, the One Who will set you free.
I shattered the gates of the realm of death.

In Tone 6

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

When you shall come, O righteous Judge, to execute just judgment,
seated on Your Throne of glory,
a river of fire will draw all men amazed before Your judgment seat;
the powers of heaven will stand beside You,
and in fear mankind will be judged
according to the deeds that each has done.
Then spare us, Christ, in Your compassion,
with faith we entreat You,
and count us worthy of Your blessings
with those that are saved.

  1. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

The books will be opened
and the acts of men will be revealed
before the unbearable judgment-seat;
and the whole vale of sorrow
shall echo with the fearful sound of lamentation,
as all the sinners, weeping in vain, are sent by Your just judgment to everlasting torment.
Therefore, we beseech You,
O compassionate and loving Lord:
spare us who sing Your praise,
for You alone are rich in mercy.

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

The trumpets shall sound and the tombs shall be emptied,
and all mankind in trembling shall be raised.
Those that have done good shall rejoice in gladness, awaiting their reward;
those that have sinned shall tremble and bitterly lament,
as they are sent to punishment and parted from the chosen.
O Lord of glory, take pity on us in Your goodness,
and count us worthy of a place with them that have loved You.

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

I lament and weep when I think of the eternal fire,
the outer darkness and the nether world, the dread worm and the gnashing of teeth,
and the unceasing anguish that shall befall those who have sinned without measure,
by their wickedness arousing You to anger,
O Supreme in love.
Among them in misery I am first:
but O Judge compassionate, in Your mercy save me.

In Tone 8, Glory…

When the thrones are set up and the books are opened,
and God sits in judgment,
O what fear there will be then!
When the angels stand trembling in Your presence and the river of fire flows before You,
what shall we do then, guilty of many sins?
When we hear Him call the blessed of His Father into the Kingdom,
but send the sinners to their punishment,
who shall endure His fearful condemnation?
But Saviour, who alone love mankind, King of the ages,
before the end comes turn me back through repentance
and have mercy on me.

In Tone 3, Now…

O Lady most honourable,
how can we but be rapt in wonder
at you giving birth to the Incarnate God
who, without a mother, was born of the Father before all ages?
You gave Him birth in the flesh without a father,
without a man instrumentality.
He is God and man whose two natures are intact,
neither one losing any of its properties.
Therefore, O Virgin Mother,
intercede with Him to save the souls
of those who believe and confess in true faith
that you are the Mother of God.

Aposticha

In Tone 3

O Christ, Who darkened the sun by Your passion
and enlightened all creation by Your resurrection,
accept our evening prayer; for You love mankind.

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

O Lord, Your life-giving Resurrection has enlightened the entire universe
and has revived Your creation which lay in corruption.
Therefore, we, who have been released from the curse of Adam, cry out to You:
Almighty Lord, glory to You!

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

O God, although in Your divine nature You are unchangeable,
yet in Your human nature You underwent change by suffering in the flesh.
All creation was prostrate with fear
when it saw You hanging on the Cross,
and it groaned in sorrow as it sang the praises of Your long-suffering.
But You descended into Hades and arose on the third day,
granting life and great mercy to the world.

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

You suffered death, O Christ, to deliver mankind from death.
And when You arose from the dead on the third day,
You enlightened the world
and resurrected all who acknowledge You as God.

In Tone 8, Glory…

Alas, black soul!
How lone will you continue in evil?
How long will you lie in idleness?
Why do you not think of the fearful hour of death?
Who do you not tremble at the dread judgment-seat of the Saviour?
What defence will you make, or what will you answer?
Your works will be there to accuse you:
your actions will reproach you and condemn you.
O my soul, the time is near at hand;
make haste before it is too late, and cry aloud in faith:
I have sinned, O Lord, I have sinned against You;
but I know Your love for man and Your compassion.
O good Shepherd, deprive me not of a place at Your right hand
in Your great mercy.

Now…

O Virgin who knew not carnal union,
O you who ineffably carried God in the flesh,
O Mother of Almighty God.
O you who obtain for all of us the cleansing of sins
accept now our supplication
and intercede for the salvation of us all.

Troparia

In Tone 3
Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world.

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.

 


DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 3: Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world.

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

Kontakion, Tone 1: When You come on earth, O God, in glory,* and the universe trembles,* while the river of fire flows before the seat of judgement,* and the books are opened and all secrets disclosed,* then deliver me from the unquenchable fire,* and count me worthy to stand at Your right hand,* O Judge who are most just.

Prokeimenon, Tone 3
Great is our Lord and great is His strength;* and of His knowledge there is no end.
verse: Praise the Lord, for a psalm is good; may praise be sweet to Him. (Psalm 146:5,1)

Epistle
1 Corinthians 8:8-9:2

Alleluia, Tone 8
verse: Come, let us rejoice in the Lord; let us acclaim God our Saviour.
verse: Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms. (Psalm 94:1,2)

Gospel
Matthew 25:31-46

Communion Hymn
Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest. (Psalm 148:1)* Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1)

January 29, 2016
Three Holy Hierarchs, Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom

[Note: This feast is moved from January 30 to January 29 due to All Souls Saturday falling on January 30]

GREAT VESPERS

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

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 4

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

Let us glorify the three great preachers of the Trinity,
the instruments of grace and harps of the Spirit,
renowned trumpets of divine preaching
who thundered awesome wonders which were revealed from on high.
John, Basil, and Gregory made known the glory of God
to the ends of the earth.

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

Let us glorify the three great preachers of the Trinity,
the instruments of grace and harps of the Spirit,
renowned trumpets of divine preaching
who thundered awesome wonders which were revealed from on high.
John, Basil, and Gregory made known the glory of God
to the ends of the earth.

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

Let us worthily venerate the defenders of the Trinity.
They are the three apostles added to the Twelve.
They are rivers which overflowed living waters out of Eden.
They nourished the face of the earth with life-giving divine waters .
They are the basic elements of nature,
fashioning not creation but the true faith.

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

The prophet spoke of them, saying:
No one who lives or speaks has not heard their voices,
for the famous and excellent works of these sublime and wise teachers
have spread through all the earth and sea.
By their divine laws the ends of the earth are joined together
and preserved in the one true faith.

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

Let us, who follow their teachings,
loudly sing and praise these instruments of the Holy Spirit.
They are the true trumpets and orators of the Word.
Let us pray to them
since they find favour with the Lord,
that He may grant a strong and lasting universal peace
and forgiveness to all of us.

In Tone 2

  1. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

With what praiseworthy crowns shall we crown the teachers,
distinct ion body but joined together in the Spirit?
They are the God-bearing defenders of the Trinity,
the triad of ministers,
the luminaries who enlighten the world, and pillars of the Church.
Because they conquered all,
Christ our God mercifully gave them crowns of glory.

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

With what songs of joy shall we crown the God-bearing mystics and preachers?
They were the most outstanding theologians of the true faith:
Basil the Great who revealed truths about God;
the sublime theologian Gregory, and John the Golden-mouthed.
They are fittingly glorified by the Trinity,
the Lord who grants his great mercy.
With what praiseworthy words shall we honour he holy bishops?
They were comparable to the apostles in rank and gifts through grace.
They defeated heresy and were sanctifiers by word and deed.
They were Christ-like shepherds in the faith.
They were earthly angels and heavenly men.
They were honoured by the Lord of glory,
by Christ who grants His great mercy.

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

With what praiseworthy crowns
shall we crown John the Golden-mouthed, Basil, and Gregory?
They are precious vessels of the Spirit
and firm defenders of the faith,
pillars of the Church, the foundation of the faithful, and comfort of sinners.
We honour them as wellsprings which overflow,
refreshing our souls with water.
They ask forgiveness for our sins and great mercy for us.

In Tone 6, Glory…

Let us extol today those mystical trumpets of the Spirit,
the God-mantled Fathers,
who, speaking of divine things,
sang a unifying hymn in the midst of the Church:
teaching that the Trinity is One,
not differing in substance or Godhead;
refuting Arius and contending for the true faith;
and who always intercede with the Lord
to have mercy on our souls.

Now…

Who would not bless you, most holy Virgin?
Who would not praise the most pure manner in which you gave birth?
For the only-begotten Son, who eternally proceeds from the Father, came forth from you.
He took flesh from you in a manner that is beyond understanding.
He, who by nature is God, took on our nature for our sake.
Yet He did not become divided into two persons;
rather, He remained one person with two distinct and unconfused natures.
O most pure Lady, we implore you:
Beseech your Son and God to have mercy on our souls.

Readings
(1) Deuteronomy 1:8-11, 15-17; (2) Deuteronomy 10:14-21; (3) Wisdom 3:1-9

Lytia

In Tone 2

Come, let us praise the earthly trinity of holy bishops
who are ministers of the heavenly Trinity:
Basil, whose name means the kingdom;
Gregory, called the Theologian; and John, the Golden-mouthed.
They are the abyss of those who searched into the wisdom of the Spirit.
They are likened to ocean currents
and ever-flowing wellsprings of leaping and living water.
They are known as elegant pearls and earthly beacons,
the rudders of the Church and trees that produce the most splendid fruit,
the stewards of grace and mouth of Christ.
They are defenders of the Trinity
by whom they were directly enlightened.
They pray unceasingly for our souls.

Let us faithfully praise the flaming coals of the divine Fire,
for we have been illumined by them.
They became inflamed by being united to Him,
and they became luminaries for the world.
They showed themselves to be living strength for the lowly.
In faith they devoutly preached the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Let us also cry out to them:
Rejoice, O three preachers of the Trinity.

In Tone 6

O Holy Trinity, worthy of adoration,
glory to Your wise plan of salvation,
for You have given three great luminaries to us.
They enlighten us by the light of their knowledge of You,
they inspire us by their teachings,
and they shine with the radiance
of your precious desires for our salvation.
Through them the whole world has been enriched with the light of understanding;
it radiates with Your glory and hastens to Your blessed kingdom.
Since You are an all-generous God, O Holy Trinity,
be attentive to their prayers in our behalf
and save our souls, O Lord and Lover of Mankind.

Glory…

Having come together with songs of praise, O lovers of feasts,
let us praise the bishops of Christ
and the glory of the Fathers,
the pillars of the faith,
the teachers and defenders of the faithful.
Let us cry out to them:
Rejoice, O luminary of the Church and immutable pillar, O wise Basil.
Rejoice, O heavenly mind and great hierarch, Gregory the Theologian.
Rejoice, O golden-voiced John, splendid preacher of penance.
O thrice-blessed Fathers, never cease to pray to Christ
in behalf of those who with faith and love
observe your sacred and sublime feast.

Now …

Having come together with songs of praise, O lovers of feasts,
let us extol the boast of virgins and the joy of angels,
the only Theotokos and the strength of believers.
Let us all cry out to her:
Rejoice, O pure virgin Mother,
splendorous luminary and gate of heaven.
Rejoice, O sacred tabernacle and all-pure One
who contained God with your womb.
Rejoice, for without exception you are higher than all the heavenly powers.
Therefore, O Lady and virgin Mother,
do not cease to protect your servants
who in faith and love extol you at all times,
and who bow down to your holy and pure birth-giving.

Aposticha

In Tone 1

Today, let us worthily praise the triad of spiritual mystics,
the speaking trumpets and mirrors of God:
the great Basil and the sublime Gregory inspired with zeal
and the truly golden-mouthed John.
Their teachings pout out a stream of gold for us.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is he death of His faithful.

Let us worthily sing the praises of the foundation of the faith,
the sublime and courageous mind,
the stream that flows with Gold,
the very splendid and precious luminaries
and defenders of the Trinity,
the receptacles of the grace of the Spirit
and unshakeable pillars.

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

O instruments of the Spirit and trumpets of the divine thunder,
O brilliant lights of preaching,
O golden, light-bearing, resplendent lamps of God,
O most blessed Basil, most wise Gregory, and most precious John,
implore Christ our God to save those who honour you.

In Tone 2, Glory…

Today the souls of mortals are elevated above earthly things.
Today they become heavenly beings as the commemorate the saints.
The gates of heaven are opened for us,
and the ways of the Lord are made known to us.
Tongues extol His miracles
and proclaim the words of the Word.
Let us also cry out to the Saviour:
Glory to You, O Christ God,
because through them there has been peace for the faithful.

Now…

Today, Christ is being carried into the temple as an infant.
Today, He who gave the Law to Moses comes under the Law.
The angelic hosts were amazed when they saw Him, who supports all things,
being held in the arms of an aged man.
Simeon, filed with reverence, joyfully cried out:
Now dismiss me, O Saviour, from the temporal life
and let me enter the repose which never rows old,
for I have seen You and I now rejoice.

Troparia

In Tone 4
As equals to the apostles in the way you lived* and teachers of the whole world* intercede with the Master of all to grant peace to the world,* and, to our souls, great mercy. (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 borne Christ,* the Saviour and Deliverer of our souls.

 


FESTAL MATINS

The Lord is God, Tone 4

Troparion, Tone 4
As equals to the apostles in the way you lived* and teachers of the whole world,* intercede with the Master of all* to grant peace to the world,* and to our souls great mercy. (twice)

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.

Psalm Reading and Small Ekteny

Sessional Hymn 1
In Tone 5: Let us all praise Basil, the royal adornment of the church,* the inexhaustible treasury of teaching,* for he has taught us to worship the holy Trinity,* which is united in essence but separate in Persons!

In Tone 4, Glory…
Divinely-wise fathers, shining lamps of the Church of Christ,* you have enlightened the world with your teachings,* withering the errors of heresy and quenching the fire of blasphemy!* As Christ’s holy bishops, pray that we may be saved!

Now…
Most-hymned Virgin, Mother of Christ God,* Mary, unwedded Bride of God,* intercession for the faithful, Lady Theotokos,* deliver from all misfortune and need* those who run to your protection with faith and love,* for you alone are the Bride of God!

Psalm Reading and Small Ekteny

Sessional Hymn 2
In Tone 3: Gregory the theologian, you were a pillar of the Church.* You were shown to be a treasury of devotion which cannot be taken away!* You enlightened your life with dispassion,* making plain the teachings of the Trinity.* Venerable father, entreat Christ God for the salvation of our souls!

In Tone 4, Glory…
Like bees hovering over the meadow of the Scriptures,* you embraced the wonderful pollen of their flowers.* Together you have produced for all the faithful* the honey of your teachings for their complete delight.* Therefore as we each enjoy this, we cry out with gladness:* blessed ones, even after death,* be advocates for us who praise you!

Now…
Storm-tossed by the triple waves of the passions,* although I am without a conscience, I fervently call on you:* do not turn from me, all pure One, lest I perish in my wretchedness!* You gave birth to the depth of mercy and I have no other hope than you!* Do not let my enemies rejoice over me or use me as a byword,* for I have put my trust in you.* You can do whatever you desire for you are Mother of the God of all!

Polyeleos

Exaltation
We extol you,* O Holy Hierarchs: Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom* and we honour your holy memory,* for you pray to Christ our God for us!
verse: My lips will speak words of wisdom!
verse: Understanding will be my heart’s desire!
Glory… Now…
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory to You, O God! (3)

Gradual Hymn, Tone 4, Antiphon 1

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
Your priests shall be clothed with righteousness* and Your saints shall rejoice!
verse: My lips will speak words of wisdom, understanding will be my heart’s desire!

Let Everything that has Breath, Tone 4

Gospel
John 10:9-16

After Psalm 50
In Tone 6, Glory…
Through the prayers of the holy Hierarchs,* O merciful Lord,* cleanse me from the multitude of my transgressions.
Now…
Through the prayers of the Theotokos,* O merciful Lord,* cleanse me from the multitude of my transgressions.
Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your loving kindness, according to the multitude of Your tender mercies blot out my transgressions
Grace was poured forth from your mouths, venerable fathers,* and you became pastors of the Church of Christ,* teaching the reason-endowed sheep to believe in the consubstantial Trinity* in one Divinity!

Canon

ODE 1
Irmos Come, people, let us sing a song to Christ our God, who divided the sea and guided the people He had led from Egypt, for He has been glorified!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
People, what thanksgiving, what fitting response, should we offer to our benefactors? For they taught us how to live in goodness!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
Let the tongues of the orators, their skill and craft and all the power of their words, now be focussed on this one intention! Let us honour them, and venerate them all together!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
With their minds in heaven, they allowed nothing to be held as their own on earth. They were shown to be guardians and patrons of the community. Therefore let them be considered worthy of our common hymns of praise!
Glory… Now…
With one mouth and one accord, we all glorify you, most immaculate One, as the object of our nature’s common honour.
Katavasia The sun’s rays once shone on dry land in the midst of the deep, for the water on both sides became firm as a wall while the people crossed over the sea on foot offering this song acceptable to God: let us sing to the Lord, for He has been greatly glorified!

ODE 3
Irmos Lord, establish us in You, for You have killed sin by the tree! Plant the fear of You in our hearts as we sing hymns to You!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
The great trumpet of the churches, the lamp illuminating the inhabited earth, the preacher embracing the ends of the earth with his voice: the great Basil summons this assembly!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
Brilliant in his life and actions, brilliant in sermons and teaching, shining more than all, as another sun outshining the stars, the greatly honoured theologian is called blessed today!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
Behold, the light of the world is manifested to the world! Behold, the salt of the earth seasons the earth! Behold, the tree of life, the golden saint, yields immortal fruit! Let those who wish to escape death come and feast sumptuously!
Glory… Now…
He who brought all things into being from non-existence and granted nature to every creature, knew Himself how to transform the given natures as He desired. Therefore the Virgin gives birth and who would not be amazed?
Katavasia Lord, the firm foundation of those who put their trust in You, strengthen the Church which you have purchased with Your precious Blood!

LITTLE EKTENY

SIDALEN
(Tone 8) Let us, as we enjoy the beauty and grace of their words,* with one voice praise the great and shining lights, the indestructible pillars of the Church:* the wise John of golden speech, the great Basil, with Gregory the renowned theologian.* Let us cry out to them, exclaiming from the depths of our hearts:* three times great and holy hierarchs, pray to Christ our God,* that He may grant remission of sins to those who celebrate your memory with love!
Glory…
You received the wisdom that comes from God, three new apostles of Christ!* By understanding sermons, in simple words through the power of the Spirit,* you framed dogmas set down earlier by the fishermen.* Indeed our faith feeds on the plain nourishment received from you.* Therefore we all cry out: pray to Christ our God,* that He may grant remission of sins to those who celebrate your memory with love!
Now…
Virgin, draw near my lowly soul that is being drowned!* It is without a pilot in the storm of the temptations of life.* It is sinking with sin and in danger of going to the bottom of hell.* Grant it peace and rescue it from perils, Theotokos,* for you are a calm harbour that knows no waves!* Intercede with your Son and God that He may give me remission of sins* for I am your unworthy servant and have you as my hope!

ODE 4
Irmos I have heard the report of Your dispensation, Lord and have glorified You, the only Lover of mankind!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
You acquired the knowledge of lower wisdom, all-glorious ones. Through the wisdom of God, you received a guiding position; therefore you wisely made the lower wisdom serve you as a handmaid.
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
Lovers of wisdom, since you loved knowledge, you all learned to speak wise words. You were filled with wonder! You taught the discipline of action and then contemplation.
Glory… Now…
In the last times, the source of everlasting waters, the Creator came down as a light rain, all-blameless One, like drops into your womb, seasonably refreshing those who were fainting.
Katavasia Your virtue, O Christ, has covered the heavens, for proceeding from Your undefiled Mother, the Ark of Your sanctification, You have appeared in the temple of Your glory as an infant in arms, and the whole world has been filled with Your praise!

ODE 5
Irmos Lord, the Giver of Light and Creator of the ages, guide us in the light of Your commandments, for we know no other God but You!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
You permitted the saints to drink deeply from the well-spring of Your gifts which is not diminished in any way by this emptying, but waters the whole earth with the divine streams which flow from them, O Lover of mankind!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
What is gold to me? What are riches, glory and power? Let all things vanish like smoke before the wind! For me the only great wealth is the Trinity of eloquent preachers!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
The river flows with ambrosia and nectar: it is a torrent of the food of immortality for those who hunger and incorruptible drink for those who thirst! Its water is eternally living and sustains the living who drink of it. All of you, partake of its everflowing life!
Glory… Now…
Evil has power against us, but not at the end, for it became weak after the Virgin gave birth to the One who is powerful in strength, who took upon Himself the weakness of the flesh and killed the one powerful in evil.
Katavasia In figure, Isaiah saw God on a throne, lifted high up and borne in triumph by angels in glory, and he cried: Woe is me, for I have seen beforehand God incarnate; Lord of the light that knows no evening and king of peace!

ODE 6
Irmos Tossed about in the deep abyss of sin, I call upon the unfathomable abyss of Your loving-kindness: lead me up from corruption, O God!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
Together you three bless the properties of God: the unbegotten nature of the Father, the generation of the Word and the procession of the Spirit Himself.
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
Today salvation has openly and radiantly come to this house, for Christ, in honour of His own name, is present in the midst of the two or three gathered together.
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
The depth of the earth is immeasurably distant from the heights of heaven, yet divine desire has caught up the saints from the earth higher than the heavens.
Glory… Now…
The three divine preachers have you, O Virgin, as a new well-spring and fountain of mysteries. They adopt a new way of speaking from new sources.
Katavasia The eyes of the elder saw the salvation that was come to the gentiles and he cried aloud to you: O Christ, coming from God, You are my God!

LITTLE EKTENY

KONTAKION
(Tone 2) You received Your inspired and steadfast preachers, Your chief teachers* into the enjoyment of Your good things and into repose.* You who alone glorify Your saints,* accepted their labours and death* more gladly than any holocaust.

IKOS
Who can open his lips and move his tongue about those who breathed fire in the power of the Word and the Spirit? Yet I shall be bold to speak a word about what is so great. For these three have transcended all human nature in their many and great gifts, surpassing those who are illustrious in both action and vision. Therefore you counted them worthy of great gifts, for they are Your faithful servants and You alone are glorified in Your saints!

ODE 7
Irmos When the golden image was worshipped on the plain of Deira, Your three youths despised the godless command. Cast into the midst of the fire, they were bedewed and sang: blessed are You, the God of our fathers!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
The former erratic insolence of heresies is vanquished and in retreat and every degraded teaching appears like wax melting in the fire, struck down by your fiery proclamation, O blessed ones.
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
These three avoided the false myths of pagan Greeks and chose persuasion alone to establish their authority among people. Thus they established the truth, moving all the congregations of the faithful and persuading them.
Glory… Now…
Every prophecy is fulfilled and comes to rest in you, amazing those who cry out: O pure One, miracles come from you more radiant than the prophesies, clearly showing the interpreters to be most wise!
Katavasia In the midst of the fire, O Word of God, You dropped dew on the children as they spoke of things divine, and You took up Your dwelling in the pure Virgin! We praise You as we sing with piety: blessed are You, O God of our fathers!

ODE 8
Irmos Let us sing hymns to God who descended into the fiery furnace and changed the flames into dew for the Hebrew children: praise the Lord, all works of the Lord and exalt Him above all forever!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
We perceive and glorify with equal reverence one nature, the powerful Unity and Trinity who orders all by higher words. For so the three God-bearers taught us to worship. Together with them we bow down before the Trinity forever!
Refrain: Holy Hierarchs, pray to God for us!
The three divine preachers were united in conceiving of the Trinity as a Unity. In all things they safeguarded the indivisibility of the divine nature from which they received a share of the one undivided glory which gathers all together for a common celebration exalting the Trinity above all forever!
Glory… Now…
When the Benefactor had received what is ours and had given in return that which is His own, He created but did not suffer, Virgin, for He deified our nature but was not made corruption. He suffered of His own will to set mankind free from the passions through His sufferings as the three fathers mystically teach us.
Katavasia Standing together in the unbearable fire, yet not harmed by it, the children champions of godliness, sang a divine hymn: all works of the Lord, bless the Lord, and exalt Him above all forever!

(omit Magnificat)
 
ODE 9
Irmos The Son of the Father without beginning has appeared to us: God the Lord, made flesh of the Virgin, to give light to those in darkness and to gather the dispersed. Therefore we magnify the Theotokos.
Magnify, my soul, the three great luminaries among the priests!
Behold, your field; the flock for which you undertook the greatest labours! We have assembled to bring you three together. Your good union is our common claim.
Magnify, my soul, the three great luminaries among the priests!
Grace did not wield a doubled-edged sword against her enemies, but a three-edged dagger: the slashing mouths of the three orators! The were one sword forged in heaven, with three tempered blades of tongues ever fighting in defence of the one thrice-radiant Divinity.
Magnify, my soul, the three great luminaries among the priests!
Your citizenship was in the heavens with those clothed in undefiled flesh, glorious ones. Now you dwell with them exclusively, interceding for us who still wear earthly wreaths, that we may remember and work towards higher things.
Magnify, my soul, the three great luminaries among the priests!
The breadth of your great works restricts me, Lady, overwhelming the prudence of my speech. I am at a glorious loss, lacking an answer to my hesitation! So let us glorify Him who has so greatly magnified you!
Katavasia We faithful saw the figure in the shadow of the Law and the Scriptures: every male child that opened the womb was holy to God. We also magnify the first-begotten Son of the unoriginate Father, the first-born Son of the unwedded Mother!

Hymn of Light
Let us praise the God-bearing fathers,* the three radiant lamps shining more brightly than the sun with the light of the Trinity,* the Author of light, the three-sunned Unity,* supernaturally united!
Glory…
Let us all now praise the vessels of light, the lighting bolts of fire:* Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian and John Chrysostom!
Now…
One God: Father, Son and Spirit,* through the prayers of Basil, Gregory and John and of the all-pure Theotokos,* let me not be cut off from Your glory!

At the Praises, Tone 5

Rejoice, trinity of bishops!
Great bulwark of the church, pillars of righteousness,
strength of the faithful, downfall of the heretics!
You shepherded the flock of Christ with godly teachings
and fed them with many virtues.
You were openly preachers of grace, setting forth laws for the fullness of Christ’s Church!
Heavenly guides and gates of paradise,
pray to Christ that He may grant our souls great mercy!

Rejoice, trinity of bishops!
Great bulwark of the church, pillars of righteousness,
strength of the faithful, downfall of the heretics!
You shepherded the flock of Christ with godly teachings
and fed them with many virtues.
You were openly preachers of grace, setting forth laws for the fullness of Christ’s Church!
Heavenly guides and gates of paradise,
pray to Christ that He may grant our souls great mercy!

Rejoice, trinity of bishops!
Earthly angels who travelled the heavens,
salvation of the world and joy of all,
champions of the Word and teachers of the universe,
skilful physicians of soul and body, ever-flowing rivers of the Spirit,
watering the face of the earth with your teachings, ladders of theology!
Golden ones of golden preaching,
pray to Christ that He may grant our souls great mercy!

Rejoice, trinity of bishops!
Earthly skies reflecting the sun, radiance and lamps of the Trinity,
enlightenment of those in darkness, fragrant and beautiful flowers of paradise,
Theologian, wise Basil and Chrysostom,
tablets of the Spirit written by the finger of God,
nourishing with the milk of salvation!
Adornments of wisdom, pray to Christ that He may grant our souls great mercy!

Glory…

Let us sound the trumpet of hymns!
Let us dance to the music of the feast!
Let us leap with joy in the festival of our teachers!
Let kings and princes come together
and let bishops clap their hands in hymns for the three great rivers of doctrines,
rushing torrents of the ever-living Spirit,
pastors and teachers, the three initiates of the sacred mysteries of the holy Trinity!
Let us assemble and let us praise them:
praise them, philosophers, for they are wise;
priests, because they are pastors;
sinners, because they are intercessors;
the poor, for they bring riches;
those in sorrow, for they comfort them;
those who travel, because they journey with them;
those at sea, because they are their guides.
Let all of us everywhere fervently praise the godly bishops, saying:
all-holy teachers, come quickly to rescue the faithful from the temptations of life
and by your prayers deliver them from eternal torments!

Now…

Let us sound the trumpet of hymns!
The Virgin Mother, the Queen of all, bows down from the heavens
to crown with blessings those who honour her with hymns!
Let kings and princes assemble!
Let them clap their hands in hymns for the Queen who gave birth to the King
who was pleased in His love for mankind to loose those held by death.
Pastors and teachers, gather!
Let us praise the all-pure Mother of the God Shepherd,
the lampstand of golden light, the light-bearing cloud more spacious than the heavens,* the living ark, the fiery throne of the Master,
the golden jar of manna, the closed gate of the Word, the refuge of all Christians!
Let us praise her with inspired hymns and say:
palace of the Word, grant us the kingdom of heaven in our lowliness,
for through your prayers all things are possible!

 


DIVINE LITURGY

Troparion and Kontakion
Troparion, Tone 4: As equals to the apostles in the way you lived* and teachers of the whole world,* intercede with the Master of all* to grant peace to the world,* and to our souls great mercy.

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

Kontakion, Tone 2: You received Your inspired and steadfast preachers, Your chief teachers* into the enjoyment of Your good things and into repose.* You who alone glorify Your saints,* accepted their labours and death* more gladly than any holocaust.

Prokeimenon, Tone 8
Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.
verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hand. (Psalm 19:5,2)

Epistle
Hebrews 13:7-16

Alleluia, Tone 1
verse: The heavens shall confess Your wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints.
verse: God is glorified in the assembly of the saints. (Psalm 89:6,8)

Gospel
Matthew 5:14-19

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

January 27, 2016
Transfer of the Precious Relics of our Father among the Saints John Chrysostom

GREAT VESPERS

Blessed is the man… is sung

 

At Psalm 140

In Tone 4

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

Let us joyfully sing the praises of Chrysostom, the golden trumpet,
the divinely-inspired organ, the inexhaustible sea of doctrine,
the pillar of the Church, the heavenly mind,
the abyss of wisdom, the gilded vase.
He pours forth sweet streams of dogma like honey
for the refreshment of the world.

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

Let us joyfully sing the praises of Chrysostom, the golden trumpet,
the divinely-inspired organ, the inexhaustible sea of doctrine,
the pillar of the Church, the heavenly mind,
the abyss of wisdom, the gilded vase.
He pours forth sweet streams of dogma like honey
for the refreshment of the world.

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

Let us joyfully sing the praises of Chrysostom, the golden trumpet,
the divinely-inspired organ, the inexhaustible sea of doctrine,
the pillar of the Church, the heavenly mind,
the abyss of wisdom, the gilded vase.
He pours forth sweet streams of dogma like honey
for the refreshment of the world.

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

Let us worthily honour John Chrysostom,
he is the ever-shining star all nations with the rays of true teaching.
He is the preacher of repentance;
the golden sponge wiping away the despair of sadness.
His words are a refreshing dew
reviving hearts which are worn by sin.

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

Let us worthily honour John Chrysostom,
he is the ever-shining star all nations with the rays of true teaching.
He is the preacher of repentance;
the golden sponge wiping away the despair of sadness.
His words are a refreshing dew
reviving hearts which are worn by sin.

  1. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

Let us worthily honour John Chrysostom,
he is the ever-shining star all nations with the rays of true teaching.
He is the preacher of repentance;
the golden sponge wiping away the despair of sadness.
His words are a refreshing dew
reviving hearts which are worn by sin.

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

With joyful hymns let us praise Chrysostom:
an earthly angel and a heavenly man.
He is a sweet and well-tuned harp, a treasury of virtues;
an immovable rock, a model of the faithful,
an imitator of the martyrs, a dweller with the holy angels,
and a companion of the apostles.

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

With joyful hymns let us praise Chrysostom:
an earthly angel and a heavenly man.
He is a sweet and well-tuned harp, a treasury of virtues;
an immovable rock, a model of the faithful,
an imitator of the martyrs, a dweller with the holy angels,
and a companion of the apostles.

Glory…

The Church, enriched by your radiant teachings, cries out to you, Chrysostom,
I am nourished by your golden pastures;
I feed at the sweet streams of your words,
by your example, I am led from action to contemplation.
I am united to Christ my bridegroom and reign with him.
Now we, assembled in your memory, cry out to you,
cease not to pray that our souls may be saved.

Now…

O Mother of God, because of You David the Prophet
became an ancestor of God;
he foretold and sang a joyous hymn of praise
and cried out to Him who worked wonders in you:
“The Queen stood at your right hand.”
God revealed you as a life-giving mother,
when He chose to be incarnate of you without a father.
He renewed in man His image which the passions had corrupted.
He found the lost sheep in the mountains, carried it on His shoulders,
offered it to the Father, generously numbered it among the powers of heaven,
and saved the whole world, since He is Christ of great and rich mercy.

Readings
(1) Proverbs 10:6-8; 8:6-21; (2) Wisdom 8:17-21; 9:1-4; (3) Wisdom 4:1, 6-20

Aposticha

In Tone 5

Grace is poured out on your lips, holy father Chrysostom.
The Lord anointed you to be a priest of his people,
to feed his flock in holiness and justice.
Armed with the sword of strength, you cut off the confusion of error:
cease not to pray for peace for the world
and salvation for our souls.

My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart understanding!

Rejoice, father of orphans, sufferer of unjust banishment,
treasury of the poor, food of the hungry,
converter of sinners, skilled physician of souls,
interpreter of holy Scripture, living law of the Holy Spirit:
pray to Christ our God, that He may have mercy on us.

The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom and his tongue speaks justice.

The world is enlightened by your words, brilliant sun,
your charity is a bright star, a shining lamp, and a beacon for all,
guiding to salvation those lost in the stormy sea of this world.
Venerable John, intercede for us.

In Tone 6, Glory…

Holy father, as a loyal pastor you suffered unjustly,
you drank the bitter cup of tribulation and exile.
You received a blessed death, glorifying God for all things.
As a courageous soldier, you overcame the crafty enemy.
Chrysostom, offer our prayers to Christ our God,
who glorified you with the crown of victory.

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
The divine Church rejoices* and the whole world keeps feast with radiance* at the transfer of your relics, O venerable hierarch John Chrysostom.* Your life as a bishop was godly* and you willingly became a martyr.* Therefore we cry to you, O martyr, passion-bearer and hierarchs’ companion:* 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!

 


FESTAL MATINS

Hexapsalm

Great Ekteny

The Lord is God (Tone 8)

Troparion, Tone 8

The divine Church rejoices* and the whole world keeps feast with radiance* at the transfer of your relics, O venerable hierarch John Chrysostom.* Your life as a bishop was godly* and you willingly became a martyr.* Therefore we cry to you, O martyr, passion-bearer and hierarchs’ companion:* 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!

Kathisma & Little Ekteny

Sessional Hymn I, Tone 1

By brilliant flashes of teachings and precepts,* you enlightened the earth like a great sun. John Chrysostom,* you drove the darkness of ignorance far away!* Therefore, I beg you, free me from the eternal darkness and by your intercessions,* count me worthy of the light of salvation!

Glory… Now…

You alone brought forth Christ with out seed:* how beyond thought is the miracle, Virgin and mother!* Bowing down, we glorify you as Theotokos,* for you gave birth to the King of glory.* Pray to Him to establish peace in the world* and to save our souls!

Kathisma & Little Ekteny

Sessional Hymn II, Tone 4

Chrysostom, you were granted by Christ to the Church* as a gleaming, golden, pleasing and divine instrument* sounding forth the words from God!* Sweetly-voiced swallow, shining like gold,* mind robed with gold, harp of repentance,* by your prayers, blessed one, amazing pastor,* deliver those who honour you from temptation.

Glory… Now…

I have fled for refuge to your divine shelter Theotokos* and after God, I call on you with pleas:* have mercy, pure One, for my sins have engulfed me;* I am distracted and tremble in fear of punishments!* Lady, pray to your holy Son, to deliver me from these!

Polyeleos

Exaltation

We extol you,* O Holy Hierarch Gregory the Theologian,* and we honour your holy memory,* for you pray to Christ our God for us!

verse:

Hear this, all peoples!

Give ear all who dwell upon the earth!

Glory… Now…

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory to You, O God! (3)

Gradual Hymn

Prokeimenon

(Tone 4) My lips will speak words of wisdom, understanding will be my heart’s desire.

verse: Hear this, all peoples, give ear all who dwell upon the earth.

 

Let Everything That Has Breath (Tone 4)

Gospel
John 10:1-8

Psalm 50

After Psalm 50

Tone 6, Glory…

Through the prayers of the holy hierarch John Chrysostom,* O merciful Lord,* cleanse me from the multitude of my transgressions.

Now…

Through the prayers of the Theotokos,* O merciful Lord,* cleanse me from the multitude of my transgressions.

Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your loving kindness, according to the multitude of Your tender mercies blot out my transgressions

Venerable, thrice-blessed and most holy father,* good pastor and teacher of Christ the chief shepherd:* you laid down your life for your sheep!* Now, all-praised John Chrysostom,* entreat by your prayers that we may be granted great mercy!

Canon

ODE 1

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

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Spiritually enriched with mysteries, blessed Father inspired by God, you uttered words of doctrines; through which you became a shepherd of the Church, leading it over to a heavenly sheepfold.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

You sped towards the height of the ascents of Scripture, and explored its irresistible and unravaged beauty with purity of mind, through which you have been declared a lantern of high priesthood.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

You encountered the divine illumination of the spiritual light, Father, and made our minds radiant, while with rightly expounding rays you reduced heresies to ashes and burned them up through the Spirit.

Glory… Now…

Child-birth without knowledge of man is perfected in you; from you the Word above all godhead comes forth, and, keeping you virgin after childbirth, appears as perfect God and man.

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

 

ODE 3

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

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

By the shining out of your holy actions you kept your mind unsullied, and were revealed, O Hierarch, as a mirror of divine splendour.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Truly perfected by the hope of grace, you became a priest of the Gospel of grace.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

The Church, bearing the delight of your words, glorious Saint, beyond the sweetness of honeycomb, spits out the bitterness of heresies.

Glory… Now…

As we revere you, All-blameless Mother of God, a gate and common temple of the divine glory, we are all freed from dangers.

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

 

LITTLE EKTENY

 

SESSIONAL HYMN

(Tone 5) The meadow of the words of the inspired Scriptures, who guides us to repentance; Christ’s Hierarch, who endured temptations of many kinds, as we have been taught by him, let us honour him as is fitting, for he intercedes with the Lord to have mercy on our souls.

Glory…

Hail gate of the Lord, through which none may pass; hail wall and protection of those who flee to you; hail haven without storms and who did not know wedlock; who bore in the flesh your Maker and God; do not cease to intercede for those who hymn and worship your Offspring.

Now…

Your Mother, seeing you willingly hung upon a cross between thieves, O Christ, wounded as a mother in her heart she said: My sinless Son, how you have been unjustly fixed like a malefactor, to a cross, wishing as compassionate, to save the human race.

 

ODE 4

Irmos I heard of your coming, Lord, and was afraid; I knew your works, Lord, and was amazed, for the earth is full of your praise.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Having caught them like fishes with the net of the true confession, Father, you offered the sacred condition of your flock as a sacrifice to God.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Armed with Christ, the helmet of faith, you cut off, as in ecstasy, the heads of heretics; and so a garland of victory has been woven for you.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

You appeared as Hierarch and minister of the divine dispensation, and became an initiator and most sacred initiate of the glory of the gifts of the Spirit.

Glory… Now…

We have you, Bride of God, as a wall in temptations and a divine protection in trouble, a fair haven, and a sure mercy-seat for our souls.

Katavasia I heard of your coming, Lord, and was afraid; I knew your works, Lord, and was amazed, for the earth is full of your praise.]

 

ODE 5

Irmos You, Lord, my light, came into the world, a holy light turning from the darkness of ignorance those who sing your praise in faith.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

You were revealed as a godlike river for your flock, watering the ploughland of their souls, High Priest, with your godlike gifts.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

You made the splendour of your words shine out for us, while you scattered the fog of godless doctrines, appeared like a star which knows no evening.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

By your entreaties to God, stretch out your hand of help to me in troubles, from the harshness of dangers, all-praised servant of Christ.

Glory… Now…

We present you as an unbreakable weapon against foes; we have gained you as anchor and hope of our salvation, Bride of God.

Katavasia You, Lord, my light, came into the world, a holy light turning from the darkness of ignorance those who sing your praise in faith.]

 

ODE 6

Irmos Prefiguring your burial for three days, the Prophet Jonas, as he prayed within the whale, cried out, Deliver me from corruption, Jesus, Kings of Powers!

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

You drew the abyss of the thoughts of the Scriptures, you were enriched with the inspired doctrines and you dried up, High Priest, the rivers of heresies.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

As you stand at the table of the Master Christ, and are found worthy of his divine banquet, do not cease to ask insistently for pardon for our souls.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Drawing the sword, inspired Father, with the word of the Spirit you destroyed the unnatural growths of godless thoughts and rooted firmly the thoughts of believers.

Glory… Now…

By your child-bearing you escaped the ancient curse, for you conceived joy in your womb, O Virgin, and by giving birth to God you made human nature divine.

Katavasia Prefiguring your burial for three days, the Prophet Jonas, as he prayed within the whale, cried out: Deliver me from corruption, Jesus, King of Powers.

 

LITTLE EKTENY

 

KONTAKION

(Tone 1) The precious Church rejoices mystically* at the transfer of your holy relics* and treasuring them as costly gold* it lavishly grants to those who hymn you the grace of healing,* by your prayers, O John the Golden-mouthed.

 

IKOS

I bow the knee to the Maker of all things, I stretch out my hands to the eternal Word seeking the gift of words that I may sing the praise of the Saint whom he magnified. For he who lives to the ages said to the Prophet: I glorify those who glorify me with faith. He then, who among those of old exalted Samuel, has now glorified his Hierarch. For having traded well he brought the talent with which he had been entrusted to the King. Therefore the One above all being also exalted him. For this reason I the unworthy ask that words be given me that I may have strength to sing his praise. For he is the instructor of the of the world who makes clear things divine.

 

ODE 7

Irmos You saved in the fire your Youths, of Abraham’s line, and destroyed the Chaldaeans with the snare with which they had unjustly trapped the just. O Lord highly exalted, the God of our Fathers, blessed are you.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

As a lover of wisdom, you were united by unbounded love to the love of Christ, High Priest, and so you cried: O Lord, highly praised, the God of our Fathers.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

You set your feet on the firm rock of the faith, you appeared unshaken by the waves of temptations, and you sang: O Lord, highly praised, the God of our Fathers.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Leading a rational flock you pastured it on the green grass of immortal teachings, and with it you faithfully cried out: O Lord, highly praised, the God of our Fathers.

Glory… Now…

Hope and protection, haven and invincible wall, sure defence you have appeared, All-blameless, for those who cry: O Lord, highly praised, the God of our Fathers.

Katavasia You saved in the fire your Youths, of Abraham’s line, and destroyed the Chaldaeans with the snare with which they had unjustly trapped the just. O Lord highly exalted, the God of our Fathers, blessed are you.

 

ODE 8

Irmos All-powerful Redeemer of all, you came down and bedewed the devout in the midst of the flame, and taught them to sing: All you works, bless, praise the Lord.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Anointed with the oil of the Spirit, you have been revealed as God’s High Priest, like Aaron, blest Father, and you taught us to cry: All you works, bless, praise the Lord.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Ablaze with the unapproachable light you dispelled the fog of error; scatter too the gloom of my passions, High Priest, by your prayers, that I may rejoice and glorify your memory.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

You adorned your sacred robe with the delight of the word, revealer of God, and through both you shone out, as you taught the cry: All you works, bless, praise the Lord.

Glory… Now…

As storm-tossed from the squalls of passions, we take refuge in your haven, Mother of God and Queen, and we cry without ceasing: All you works, bless, praise the Lord.

Katavasia All-powerful Redeemer of all, you came down and bedewed the devout in the midst of the flame, and taught them to sing: All you works, bless, praise the Lord.

 

MAGNIFICAT

 

ODE 9

Irmos The Lord has shown strength with his arm, he has put down the mighty from their thrones and exalted the humble, the God of Israel, by which he ,the Dayspring from on high, has visited us, and directed us in the way of peace.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Your clear tongue, like a melodious trumpet sounding the mystery of the word, rouses the faithful and arms them by divine operation against invisible foes.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

Mystically robed in the divine garment, you entered the marriage feast and joy above, and took your place at table with Christ, All-blessed Father.

Refrain: Holy father John, pray to God for us!

With one accord the choir of fathers rejoices and leaps for joy, the company of believers is glad, and the Church of God mystically dances at your memory.

Glory… Now…

Sovereign Lady, who gave birth to the Lamb of God and Chief Shepherd, Christ, rescue the city which honours you from dangers and corruption and the passions of sin.

Katavasia The Lord has shown strength with his arm, he has put down the mighty from their thrones and exalted the humble, the God of Israel, by which he the Dayspring from on high has visited us, and directed us in the way of peace.

 

Hymn of Light

Rejoice, queen of cities! Clap your hands and sing! Today you receive the body of your good shepherd and chief pastor! The golden mouth flowing with honey governs and saves you and all the world!

Glory… Now…

Rejoice, palace of God! Rejoice overshadowed mountain! Rejoice bush which burned but was not consumed! Rejoice, throne of glory! Rejoice, divine table! Rejoice, golden vessel! Rejoice, brightly shining lamp! Rejoice, Mary, virgin Mother, the light-bearing cloud!

 

At The Praises

In Tone 4

Your holy teachings poured out, all wise one, more brilliant than gold.* They enrich the understanding of the hungry* and dispel the gloom of the passions and bitter winter of avarice.* Therefore we fittingly bless you, Chrysostom, and honour the return of your relics* as a well-spring of holiness.

You were unjustly driven from your flock, venerable father.* You endured tribulation and bitter exile* where you were counted worthy of a blessed end, as a good athlete, trampling down the crafty enemy.* Therefore, in your return the church rejoices* for you adorned her as with gold by your all-wise teachings.

Today the blessed Chrysostom is hymned as a pillar of fire,* a river flowing with the waters of doctrine,* a heavenly intelligence, an all-golden mouth of theology,* the surety of sinners, a divine preacher of repentance,* a brightly shining lamp and a heavenly man!

The imperial city receives your relics, Chrysostom, like a royal ornament.* It is adorned by them and boasts in your words.* It calls the whole world to celebrate and to a divine share in your abundant gifts.* It cries aloud: good Jesus,* You are the glory of your servants!

In Tone 4, Glory…

Father Chrysostom, like a divine river flowing mystically in the beginning from Eden,* passing over the four ends of the earth in your words,* you have watered every faithful person with your golden teaching.* Therefore, since the return of your divine relics has been openly ascribed to your city, John,* pray now that the souls of those who praise you may be saved!

Now…

Look on the entreaties of your servants, blameless One!* Stop all the terrible attacks against us, freeing us from every affliction,* for we have only you as our sure and firm anchor!* Lady, do not let us be put to shame,* for we call on you for our intercession!* Hasten to pray for those who call in faith:* rejoice, Lady, help of all,* the joy and shelter and salvation of our souls!

 


DIVINE LITURGY

Troparion and Kontakion
Troparion, Tone 8 The divine Church rejoices* and the whole world keeps feast with radiance* at the transfer of your relics, O venerable hierarch John Chrysostom.* Your life as a bishop was godly* and you willingly became a martyr.* Therefore we cry to you, O martyr, passion-bearer and hierarchs’ companion:* Pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved.

Glory… Now…

Kontakion, Tone 1 The precious Church rejoices mystically* at the transfer of your holy relics* and treasuring them as costly gold* it lavishly grants to those who hymn you the grace of healing,* by your prayers, O John the Golden-mouthed.

Prokeimenon, Tone 1
My mouth shall speak wisdom* and the meditation of my heart understanding.
verse: Hear these things, all you nations; give ear all you inhabitants of the world.

Epistle
Hebrews 7:26-8:2

Alleluia Verses, Tone 2
verse: The mouth of the just man shall meditate wisdom and his tongue shall speak judgment.
verse: The law of his God is in his heart, and his steps will not falter.

Gospel
John 10:9-15

Communion Verse
The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear. Alleluia. (3)

January 25, 2016
Our Holy Father Gregory the Theologian, Archbishop of Constantinople

GREAT VESPERS

At Psalm 140

In Tone 4

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

By your words of wisdom, Gregory the theologian,
you have glorified Him who is worshipped in Trinity:
the consubstantial Godhead: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit!
You have withered the vanity of false philosophers,
boldly proclaiming the truth with your godly preaching.

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

By your words of wisdom, Gregory the theologian,
you have glorified Him who is worshipped in Trinity:
the consubstantial Godhead: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit!
You have withered the vanity of false philosophers,
boldly proclaiming the truth with your godly preaching.

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

Let us sing the praises of the prince of bishops,
the great teacher of the church of Christ,
the mighty organ of the Spirit of God;
the well-tuned lyre, the sweet-sounding harp:
rejoice, depth of divine grace!
Rejoice, heavenly and exalted mind:
Gregory, father and theologian!

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

You ascended the mountain of virtue, renouncing all earthly cares.
With dead works you held no fellowship;
as Moses received from the hand of God the tables of the law of life,
so you were given the pure dogmas of your theology,
by which you teach us heavenly mysteries,
Most wise father Gregory.

In Tone 1

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

The grave, the means of forgetfulness, did not close your mouth, father Gregory,
for you have been revealed as the voice of theology,
declaring now to the whole world the teachings of the faith!
Pray that peace and great mercy may be granted to our souls!

  1. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

The grave, the means of forgetfulness, did not close your mouth, father Gregory,
for you have been revealed as the voice of theology,
declaring now to the whole world the teachings of the faith!
Pray that peace and great mercy may be granted to our souls!

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

You wisely turned from the hostile and treacherous flesh,
and mounting the heaven-bound chariot, father Gregory,
you were drawn by the virtues as by four horses!
You soared aloft into ineffable beauty!
Now as you delight in it,
grant our souls peace and great mercy!

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

Through grace you were a faithful mediator between God and men.
Now, as you brought Christ, mercifully turned toward us, father Gregory,
by your bold prayers, never cease to pray to Him, venerable one,
that He may grant our souls peace and great mercy!

In Tone 6, Glory…

Faithful, let us assemble!
Let us celebrate in spiritual songs the prince of bishops and the glory of patriarchs,
the interpreter of the words and thoughts of Christ.
Let us honour him whom God exalted with a heavenly mind:
rejoice, fountain of theology and river of wisdom;
the abyss of divine contemplation!
Rejoice, brilliant star, enlightening the world with true doctrine!
Rejoice, fearless opponent of error and powerful defender of truth!
Most wise Gregory the theologian, never cease to pray to Christ our God
for those who celebrate your God-pleasing and honorable memory
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
(1) Proverbs 10:6-8; 8:6-21; (2) Wisdom 8:17-21; 9:1-4; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15

 

Aposticha

In Tone 5

Opening your mouth, directed by the Word of God,
you have partaken of the Spirit of Wisdom:
full of grace, you proclaimed divine doctrine, thrice-blessed Gregory.
You have imitated the ceaseless worship of the angelic host,
preaching on earth the triune and undivided Light.
Illumined by your divine teaching we confess the one Godhead in Trinity,
pray for the salvation of our souls.

My mouth shall speak wisdom; and the meditation of my heart shall be understanding.

With your tongue of fire, divinely-inspired Gregory,
you burned to ashes the false teachings of the enemies of God.
You have appeared to us as a man with divine words,
speaking in the spirit of the mighty works of God,
writing for us of the hidden mystery of the Trinity of Persons,
equal in power and one in essence.
You have enlightened the ends of the earth as a radiant sun:
never cease to pray for the salvation of our souls.

The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice.

Rejoice, river of God, full of the waters of grace,
gladdening the ransomed people of Christ the King with divine teaching:
rejoice, torrent of delight and inexhaustible sea of truth,
faithful and just guardian of doctrine, undefeated warrior of the holy Trinity,
organ of the Holy Spirit and ever-vigilant mind,
your words explain the deep mysteries of the Scriptures:
pray to Christ, that He may grant our souls great mercy!

In Tone 8, Glory…

You have cultivated the hearts of believers by your words, Gregory:
you have yielded abundant fruit for God:
an ever-green pasture of righteousness.
You have torn out by the roots the thorns of heresy,
cleansing the world by your divine reasoning.
We faithful in joy offer praise to you:
inspired lyre and ever-vigilant mind,
faithful shepherd of the flock of Christ,
never cease to pray to the Word, theologian,
that He will deliver from the wolf all those who honour your memory.

Now…

O Virgin, You have never known wedlock,
Yet You conceived God in the flesh
in a manner which words can never describe.
You thus became the Mother of God on high.
O Immaculate Lady, receive the supplication of your servants
and grant us the cleansing of our sins.
Accept now our prayers and beseech God to save all of us.

 

Troparia

In Tone 1
Like a shepherd’s flute, O Father Gregory* your theology vanquished the trumpets of orators,* for searching the depths of the spirit,* beauty of speech was increased in you.* Pray Christ God that our souls may be saved.

Glory… Now…
O Holy Tabernacle, when Gabriel called out to you:* Rejoice, O Virgin, full of grace,* the Lord of All became incarnate of you,* as the righteous David had foretold.* In bearing your Creator, you have shown yourself to surpass the vastness of the heavens.* We, therefore, cry out: Glory to Him Who dwelt in you!* Glory to Him Who came forth from you!* Glory to Him Who has set us free* through your life-giving birth!


DIVINE LITURGY

Troparion and Kontakion
Troparion, Tone 1:
Like a shepherd’s flute, O Father Gregory* your theology vanquished the trumpets of orators,* for searching the depths of the spirit,* beauty of speech was increased in you.* Pray 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 3: O glorious saint, your tongue, versed in theology,* loosed the webs of vain philosophers;* you adorned the Church with a robe of true belief woven on high.* Wearing it she cries with us, your children:* Rejoice, O Father, highest mind of theology.

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

Epistle
1 Corinthians 12:7-11

Alleluia, Tone 2
verse: Give heed, O my people, to my law, incline your ears to the words of my mouth.
verse: I will open my mouth in parables, and proclaim secrets from of old. (Psalm 77,1-2)

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)

January 24, 2016
Sunday of the Prodigal Son, Octoechos Tone 2; Our Venerable Mother Xenia the Roman

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 2

  1. Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name.

Come, let us adore God the Word,
Who was born of the Father before all ages,
and was incarnate of the Virgin Mary;
for of His own free will He suffered the Cross
and submitted Himself to burial,
and arose from the dead to save me, a sinful one.

  1. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me.

Christ our Saviour cancelled the decree that was written against us,
by nailing it to the Cross;
and He abolished the dominion of Death.
Let us glorify His Resurrection on the third day.

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

Let us, together with the archangels, sing of Christ’s resurrection;
for He is the Redeemer and Saviour of our souls.
He will come again in awesome glory and mighty power
to judge the world which He has fashioned.

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

Although You died and were buried,
the angel yet declared You as Master.
He said to the women: Come and see where the Lord was placed;
for He is risen as He foretold,
because He is almighty.
Therefore, we worship You, the only Immortal One,
and we beseech You to have mercy on us, O Giver of Life.

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

O Christ, You have abolished the curse of the tree by Your Cross;
You have destroyed the power of Death by Your burial,
and You enlightened the human race by Your Resurrection.
Therefore, we cry out to You:
O God and Benefactor, glory to You!

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

O Lord, the gates of death opened before You in fear,
and the gatekeepers of Hades were filled with dread at the sight of You.
You smashed the gates of brass and crushed the posts of iron.
Then You burst our chains asunder,
and led us out from the darkness, away from the shadow of death.

In Tone 1

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

I was entrusted with a sinless and loving land,
but I sowed the ground with sin and reaped with a sickle the ears of slothfulness;
in thick sheaves I garnered my actions,
but winnowed them not on the threshing floor of repentance.
But I beg You, my God, the pre-eternal husbandman,
with the wind of Your loving-kindness winnow the chaff of my works,
and grant to my soul the corn of forgiveness;
shut me in Your heavenly storehouse
and save me.

     3. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

I was entrusted with a sinless and loving land,
but I sowed the ground with sin and reaped with a sickle the ears of slothfulness;
in thick sheaves I garnered my actions,
but winnowed them not on the threshing floor of repentance.
But I beg You, my God, the pre-eternal husbandman,
with the wind of Your loving-kindness winnow the chaff of my works,
and grant to my soul the corn of forgiveness;
shut me in Your heavenly storehouse
and save me.

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

Brethren, let us learn the meaning of this mystery.
For when the Prodigal Son ran back from sin to his Father’s house,
his loving Father came out to meet him and kissed him.
He restored to the Prodigal the tokens of his proper glory,
and mystically he made glad on high, sacrificing the fatted calf.
Let our lives, then, be worthy of the loving Father who has offered sacrifice,
and of the glorious Victim
who is the Saviour of our souls.

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

Brethren, let us learn the meaning of this mystery.
For when the Prodigal Son ran back from sin to his Father’s house,
his loving Father came out to meet him and kissed him.
He restored to the Prodigal the tokens of his proper glory,
and mystically he made glad on high, sacrificing the fatted calf.
Let our lives, then, be worthy of the loving Father who has offered sacrifice,
and of the glorious Victim
who is the Saviour of our souls.

In Tone 2, Glory…

Of what great blessings in my wretchedness have I deprived myself!
From what a kingdom in my misery have I fallen!
I have wasted the riches that were given to me,
I have transgressed the commandment.
Alas, unhappy soul!
You are henceforth condemned to the eternal fire.
Therefore before the end cry out to Christ our God:
Receive me as the Prodigal Son, O God,
and have mercy upon me.

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.

Aposticha

In Tone 2

Your Resurrection, O Christ our Saviour,
has enlightened the whole universe;
and, through it, You call back to Yourself all Creation.
Almighty God, glory to You!

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

By the wood of Your Cross, O Saviour,
You have abolished the curse of the tree;
by Your burial You have destroyed the power of death;
and by Your Resurrection You enlightened the human race.
We, therefore, cry out to You:
O Christ our God, Giver of Life, glory to You!

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

O Christ, when You were nailed to the Cross,
the distorted nature of creation was made manifest.
The soldiers showed their inhumanity by piercing Your side with a lance,
and the people showed their ignorance of Your power
by asking that Your tomb be sealed.
But, in Your mercy, You accepted burial
and then arose on the third day.
O Lord, glory to You!

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

O Christ, Giver of Life,
You freely endured the Passion for the sake of mortals.
In Your power You descended into Hades;
and snatching, as from a mighty monster, the souls of those who awaited Your coming,
You placed them in Paradise.
Therefore, show Your great mercy to us who glorify Your Resurrection,
and cleanse our souls.

In Tone 6, Glory…

I have wasted the wealth which the Father gave to me,
and in my wretchedness I have fed with dumb beasts.
Yearning after their food, I remained hungry and could not eat my fill.
But now I return to the compassionate Father
and cry out with tears:
I fall down before Your loving-kindness,
receive me as a hired servant, and save me.

Now…

Christ the Lord, my Maker and Saviour,
came out of your pure womb in the likeness of me, O Woman without stain,
and He delivered Adam from the original curse.
Therefore, O Woman all pure,
since you are the Mother of God and a true Virgin,
we never tire of calling to you the salutation of the angel:
“Hail, O Lady,
O our intercessor, our shield,
and the Redemptress of our souls!”

Troparia

In Tone 2
When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!”

Glory… Now…
O Mother of God, the mysteries which surround you are exceedingly glorious,* and beyond the power of understanding.* For you retained the seal of purity,* and your virginity remained inviolate;* yet you are acknowledged, without doubt,* to be the Mother who gave birth to the true God.* We beg you, therefore, to entreat Him to save our souls.

 


DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 2: When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!”

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

Kontakion, Tone 3: Foolishly have I fled from Your glory, O Father,* wasting the wealth You gave me on vices.* Therefore, I offer You the words of the Prodigal:* Loving Father, I have sinned before You.* Take me, for I repent, and make me as one of Your hired hands.

Prokeimenon, Tone 2
The Lord is my strength and my song of praise, and He has become my salvation.
verse: The Lord has indeed chastised me, but He has not delivered me to death. (Psalm 117:14,18)

Epistle
1 Corinthians 6:12-20

Alleluia, Tone 2
verse: The Lord will hear you in the day of tribulation; the name of the God of Jacob will shield you.
verse: Lord, grant victory to the king and hear us in the day that we shall call upon You. (Psalm 19:2,10)

Gospel
Luke 15:11-32

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

January 20, 2016
Our Venerable and God-bearing Father Euthymius

GREAT VESPERS

At Psalm 140

In Tone 1

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

A heavenly angel was sent beforehand to announce your birth, father Euthymius.
Like John, you came from the womb of a barren woman
and you showed yourself to be his follower.
You were a homeless one who spurned possessions,
sharing his way of life.
Like the Baptist, you sustained yourself in the mountains,
shining forth with boundless miracles!

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

A heavenly angel was sent beforehand to announce your birth, father Euthymius.
Like John, you came from the womb of a barren woman
and you showed yourself to be his follower.
You were a homeless one who spurned possessions,
sharing his way of life.
Like the Baptist, you sustained yourself in the mountains,
shining forth with boundless miracles!

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

You brought forth fruit from barrenness, father Euthymius.
You were shown to have many children indeed,
for the desert that once was trackless was filled with monastics,
your spiritual offspring.
Pray now that our souls may be granted peace and great mercy!

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

You excelled in your life, father Euthymius,
and your faith was truly orthodox.
Through activity you reached the highest vision
and became a dwelling of wisdom.
You worshipped Christ in two natures as one of the Trinity.
Pray to Him on our behalf!

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

You shared in the sufferings of Him
who was stretched upon the cross, father Euthymius.
Through asceticism you conformed yourself indeed to His resurrection and glory!
Entreat Him now that he may grant our souls
peace and great mercy!

In Tone 4

  1. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

You were sanctified from your mother’s womb
when the eye of Him who sees all things perceived
your purpose and desire ever leading towards higher things.
Most blessed one, He declared you to be a gift of God,
the namesake of good courage.
He loosed the sorrow of your parents.
You advanced from infancy pleasing God, our Benefactor.
Beseech Him that He may save and enlighten our souls!

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

Christ found you to be a clear mirror of divine revelations.
He enlightened you with the radiant splendour of His light.
He filled you with divine gifts, father.
You were revealed to be a source flowing with healings,
a feeder of the hungry,watering with rains the desire of those who thirst.
Looking upon souls as pledges, wise one,
by your teaching, you helped them towards God.
Entreat Him that He may save and enlighten our souls!

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

Your angelic life shone with vision and activity
as a standard and excellent model of virtue
for those who desire to worship God in perfection!
Your divinely-wise teaching, Euthymius,
taught all to worship the Trinity,
that Christ is known to be one in two natures
and that the councils were equal in number to Christ’s four gospels.
Entreat Him that He may save and enlighten our souls!

In Tone 3, Glory…

As another Samuel, father Euthymius,
you were dedicated to God from your mother’s womb.
Indeed, you were fittingly called by your name,
for you are good courage to all believers,
a foundation and pillar of the monastic way,
a sanctified temple of the Holy Spirit.
Pray for us who honour you,
that we may be granted great mercy!

Now…

O Lady most honourable,
how can we but be rapt in wonder
at you giving birth to the Incarnate God
who, without a mother, was born of the Father before all ages?
You gave Him birth in the flesh without a father,
without a man instrumentality.
He is God and man whose two natures are intact,
neither one losing any of its properties.
Therefore, O Virgin Mother,
intercede with Him to save the souls
of  those who believe and confess in true faith
that you are the Mother of God.

Readings
(1) Wisdom 3:1-9; (2) Wisdom 5:15-6:3; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15

Aposticha

In Tone 5

Rejoice, venerable father,
for you are the cause of good courage for the Church!
By your birth all the assaults of heretics were repelled by the providence of God!
Therefore he named you Euthymius, or good courage.
You filled the ranks of heavenly beings with joy by the brilliance of your life!
Now as you make your dwelling with them, filled with light,
and enjoy the most blessed and divine radiance,
entreat Christ that He may grant great mercy to our souls.

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

Made firm by the staff of the cross,
you dried up the sea of iniquity.
Spiritually watered by the stream of divine sweetness and the rivers of paradise,
you revealed springs of salvation in the desert!
You were watered like a palm tree with streams of the divine Spirit.
You hastened to the heights of heaven, venerable one,
showing yourself a fiery pillar of light-bearing radiance.
Therefore, divinely wise one,
entreat Christ that He may grant great mercy to our souls!

Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; who greatly delights in is commandments!

You have passed over indeed with joy and gladness of soul
to the wonderful tabernacle, the house of God.
There, most blessed father, you listen to the beautiful voices,
the sweet hymns and ineffable delight of those who keep the feast.
You share in their beauty, Euthymius.
This alone you desired as you crucified your flesh and you reached it,
adorned with the righteousness of God.
Entreat Christ that He may grant the world great mercy!

Glory…
You gave your eyes no sleep, righteous father,
nor your eyelids slumber, until you freed your soul and body of passions.
You prepared yourself to be the dwelling of the Holy Spirit,
for you became the companion of the consubstantial Trinity,
for Christ who alone shows us the Father,
came to live in you, all-praised Euthymius.
Pray to Him that our souls may be saved!

Now…

We faithful bless you, Theotokos;
we fittingly glorify you, the unshaken city, the fortified wall,
the fervent intercessor and protector of our souls!

Troparia

In Tone 4
Be glad, O barren desert;* take heart, you who have never known labor.* For a man of the desires of the Spirit* has multiplied your children.* He planted them in godliness* and reared them with self-mastery to perfection in virtues.* By his prayers, Christ God, grant peace to our lives.

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.

 


DIVINE LITURGY

Troparion and Kontakion
Troparion, Tone 4 Be glad, O barren desert;* take heart, you who have never known labour.* For a man of the desires of the Spirit* has multiplied your children.* He planted them in godliness* and reared them with self-mastery to perfection in virtues.* By his prayers, Christ God, grant peace to our lives.

Glory… Now…

Kontakion, Tone 8 Creation found joy in your precious birth* and in your divine memorial it takes courage from your many miracles.* Grant a rich share of your wonders to our souls, O Venerable Father,* and cleanse the stains of sin that we may sing: Alleluia.

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?

Epistle
Hebrews: 13:17-21

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.

Gospel
Luke 6:17-23

Communion Verse
The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear. Alleluia (3).

January 17, 2016
Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee, Octoechos Tone 1; Our Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 1

  1. Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name.

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

  1. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me.

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.

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

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.

In Tone 1

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

Brethren, let us not pray as the Pharisee:
for he who exalts himself shall be humbled.
Let us humble ourselves before God,
and with fasting cry aloud as the Publican:
God be merciful to us sinners.

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

Brethren, let us not pray as the Pharisee:
for he who exalts himself shall be humbled.
Let us humble ourselves before God,
and with fasting cry aloud as the Publican:
God be merciful to us sinners.

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

A Pharisee, overcome with vainglory, and a Publican, bowed down in repentance,
came to You the only Master.
The one boasted and was deprived of blessings,
while the other kept silent and was counted worthy of gifts.
Confirm me, O Christ our God,
in these his cries of sorrow,
for You love mankind.

In Tone 4

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

Burning with divine love and radiant with the Spirit,
your soul rose to desire truly infinite love!
You despised flesh and blood, and lived apart from the world,
yet you were united to it by great silence and abstinence.
Therefore you were fulfilled as you desired,
and as a star radiant with blessings, Anthony, you illumine our souls!

  1. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

Burning with divine love and radiant with the Spirit,
your soul rose to desire truly infinite love!
You despised flesh and blood, and lived apart from the world,
yet you were united to it by great silence and abstinence.
Therefore you were fulfilled as you desired,
and as a star radiant with blessings, Anthony, you illumine our souls!

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

Anthony, you were radiant with divine light
by the grace of the Holy Spirit;
you shattered the flying weapons of the demons;
by your godly teachings you exposed their evil snares.
You were a radiant light for monks: the first to adorn the desert;
a prayerful and skilled physician of the sick,
and the first clear example of the ascetic life.

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

Anthony, pure in heart and soul;
an earthly angel, a heavenly man!
A teacher of chastity, a clear measure of abstinence!
Now you live with your Master, blessed saint.
As you offer Him unceasing praise with the angels, all holy monastics and martyrs,
set free from sin and danger those who ever keep your holy memory.

In Tone 8, Glory…

Almighty Lord, I know how great is the power of tears.
For they led up Hezekiah from the gates of death;
they delivered the sinful woman from the transgressions of many years;
they justified the Publican above the Pharisee.
And with them I also pray:
Have mercy upon me.

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!

Readings
(1) Proverbs 3:13-16, 8, 6; (2) Proverbs 10:31-32; 11:1-10; (3) Wisdom 3:1-9

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.

In Tone 8, Glory…

We honour you, Anthony our father, the instructor of a multitude of monks!
We have indeed learned to walk rightly in your footsteps!
You are blest, for having laboured for Christ,
you denounced the power of the enemy!
Conversor with the angels, companion of Paul of Thebes!
Together with them, entreat the Lord that He may grant mercy to our souls!

In Tone 5, Now

My eyes are weighed down by my transgressions,
and I cannot lift them up and see the height of heaven.
But receive me, Saviour, in repentance as the Publican
and have mercy on me.

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…
By your zeal you equalled Elijah, father Anthony,* you imitated the life of John the Baptist;* you founded a city in the wilderness;* you established the Church on the firm foundation of your prayers.* Pray to Christ our God that our souls may be saved.

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.

 


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.

Troparion, Tone 4: By your life you imitated the zealous Elias* and by following straight paths you emulated the Baptist, John.* O Father Anthony,* you peopled the desert and strengthened the world by your prayers;* intercede with Christ God to save our souls.

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

Kontakion, Tone 2: You rejected earthly worries* and finished your life in silence imitating the Baptist in every way* and so with him we honour you,* O Anthony, most venerable, first of the Fathers.

Now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 3: Let us bring sighs of sorrow to the Lord as did the Publican* and approach the Master as sinners,* for He desires salvation for everyone.* He grants forgiveness to all who repent.* For as God, the One-who-is, co-eternal with the Father, He became flesh for us.

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)

Prokeimenon, Tone 7
Precious in the sight of the Lord* is the death of His venerable ones. (Psalm 155:6)

Epistle
2 Timothy 3:10-15; Hebrews 13: 17-21

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)
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
Luke 18:10-14; Luke 6: 17-23

Communion Hymn
Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest. (Psalm 148:1)* The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6)

January 11, 2016
Post-feast of Theophany; Our Venerable Father Theodosius, Founder of the Ceneobitic Life

GREAT VESPERS

At Psalm 140

In Tone 2

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

When the Forerunner saw the One who is our enlightenment,
the One who has brought light to all,
coming to be baptized,
his heart rejoiced and his hand trembled.
He pointed Him out to the people and said:
This is the Saviour of Israel who delivered us from corruption.
O Christ our God, O Sinless One, glory to You!

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

O our Saviour, the armies of angels trembled
when they saw You baptized by your servant,
and the Holy Spirit bearing witness and descending,
and when they heard the voice of the Father speaking from heaven:
This One upon whom the Forerunner lays his hands
is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.
O Christ our God, glory to You!

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

When the Jordan River received You, O Fountainhead,
the Comforter descended in the form of a dove.
Now behold the marvel:
the One who bowed the heavens bows his head to the Forerunner,
and the one made of clay cries out to his Maker:
Why do You command me to perform what is beyond my power?
It is I who need to be baptized by You.
O Christ our God, O Sinless One, glory to You!

In Tone 5

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

O venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius,
you struggled valiantly in your earthly life.
With hymns, fastings, and vigils,
you were a model for your disciples.
Now you rejoice with the angelic powers.
Without ceasing, you glorify Christ, who is God of God, and the Word,
the Deliverer who bowed his head to the Forerunner
and who sanctified the nature of water.
Implore Him and pray to Him, O venerable one,
that He grant to the Church
oneness of thought, peace, and his great mercy.

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

O venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius,
you struggled valiantly in your earthly life.
With hymns, fastings, and vigils,
you were a model for your disciples.
Now you rejoice with the angelic powers.
Without ceasing, you glorify Christ, who is God of God, and the Word,
the Deliverer who bowed his head to the Forerunner
and who sanctified the nature of water.
Implore Him and pray to Him, O venerable one,
that He grant to the Church
oneness of thought, peace, and his great mercy.

  1. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

O venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius,
your desire was fulfilled when your soul was found to be pure.
The grace of the all-holy Spirit dwelt in you like a most pure light.
You were splendidly adorned by its action.
Without ceasing, you glorify Christ, the one Son in two natures,
who was baptized by the hand of the Forerunner
and who was attested to by the voice of the Father.
Implore Him and pray to Him, O venerable one,
that He grant to the whole world
oneness of thought, peace, and his great mercy.

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

O venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius,
your desire was fulfilled when your soul was found to be pure.
The grace of the all-holy Spirit dwelt in you like a most pure light.
You were splendidly adorned by its action.
Without ceasing, you glorify Christ, the one Son in two natures,
who was baptized by the hand of the Forerunner
and who was attested to by the voice of the Father.
Implore Him and pray to Him, O venerable one,
that He grant to the whole world
oneness of thought, peace, and his great mercy.

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

O venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius,
you made yourself worthy of a blessed life by chastity and fasting.
Passing over to the life above,
you asked all the brothers to rejoice with you.
With the bodiless powers you now unceasingly glorify Christ
who ineffably received his flesh from the Virgin
and who drowned our sins by his baptism in the currents of the Jordan.
Implore Him and pray to Him, O holy one,
that He grant to the whole world
oneness of thought, peace, and his great mercy.

In Tone 2, Glory…

O venerable Father, like a city of the living God,
the movements of the river brought joy to your soul
when the Water of Forgiveness, Christ our God, entered the Jordan
and made the word of faith gush forth for the whole world.
Implore Him, O blessed Theodosius, to save our souls.

Now…

You have bowed your head before the Forerunner,
and You have crushed the heads of the demons.
You have descended into the waters
and given light to all things
that they may glorify You, O Saviour,
the Enlightenment of our souls.

Readings
(1) Wisdom 5:15-6:3; (2) Wisdom 3:1–9; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15

Aposticha

In Tone 4

The Lord said: You have seen how I clothed myself with your likeness.
I humbled myself beyond comprehension.
Why is it so strange then, O friend,
if I also bow down to your right hand as an equal?
I, who am naked, clothe myself with the waters,
because in my compassion
I desire to clothe the naked with eternal incorruption.

The sea fled at the sight; the Jordan turned back on its course.

You revealed yourself as incarnate, O Lord,
and a womb receiving You remained unburned
as it was foretold in that furnace of long ago
which did not burn the youths.
indeed am the straw, O Master,
and I place my hand as though upon the fire,
before which the heavenly and earthly creatures tremble,
O all-powerful Jesus, the Saviour of our souls.

Why was it, O sea, that you fled, that you turned back, Jordan, on your course?

The Lord said: In the waters of the Jordan,
wash Me even though I am without stain.
Human nature, which was stained by the transgression of Adam,
will now be washed anew;
because when I am baptized
there will be a renewal for all
through the water and the Spirit.

In Tone 8, Glory…

Multitudes of monks venerate you as a guide, O Father Theodosius,
because we truly learned how to walk correctly by means of your path.
Blessed are you, for you served Christ.
You have confounded the power of the enemy,
for you speak with the angels.
You share the lot of the venerable and righteous ones.
Together with them, pray to the Lord
that He show mercy to our souls.

Now…

O Saviour, the heavenly hosts are frightened at what they see,
for today You stand naked in the waters;
your head is bowed down in order to be baptized by John,
for You willingly become poor in order to enrich the world.
O Lord, glory to You!

Troparia

In 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, Theodosius.** Pray to Christ God that our souls be saved.

In Tone 1, Glory… Now…
At Your Baptism in the Jordan river, O Christ,* the worship due to the Holy Trinity was made manifest,* for the voice of the Father bore You witness by calling You “Beloved Son”* and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove,* confirmed the immutability of this declaration.* O Christ God, who came forth and filled the world with light: * Glory to You!

 


DIVINE LITURGY

Antiphon 1
When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course?
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Glory…  Now… Only-Begotten Son…

Antiphon 3
Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.

Entrance
Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 1: At Your Baptism in the Jordan river, O Christ,* the worship due to the Holy Trinity was made manifest,* for the voice of the Father bore You witness by calling You “Beloved Son”* and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove,* confirmed the immutability of this declaration.* O Christ God, who came forth and filled the world with light: * Glory to You!

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, Theodosius.* Pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved.

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

Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light.

Now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion: Tone 8: Planted in the courts of your Lord,* you blossomed beautifully with godly virtues* and multiplied your children in the desert* watering it with the streams of your tears.* O leader of God’s divine sheepfolds,* we cry out to you: Rejoice, O Father Theodosius.

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord; God the Lord has appeared to us.
verse: Give thanks to the Lord for He is good for His mercy endures forever. (Psalm 117:26-27,1)

Prokeimenon, Tone 7
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His venerable ones.

Epistle
2 Corinthians 4:6-15

Alleluia, Tone 4
verse: Bring to the Lord, you sons of God; bring to the Lord young rams.
verse: The voice of the Lord is over the waters, the God of glory has thundered, the Lord reigns over vast waters. (Psalm 28:1,3)
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

Hymn to the Mother of God
O my soul, magnify Christ the King, baptized in the Jordan.
and the Irmos: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you.

Communion Hymn
The grace of God has appeared* bringing salvation to all.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Titus 2:11)

Instead of “Blessed is He who comes…” we sing:
All creation is filled with rejoicing today, for Christ is baptized in the Jordan.

Instead of “We have seen the true light…” we sing:
All creation is filled with rejoicing today, for Christ is baptized in the Jordan.

Instead of “May our mouths…” and “Blessed be the Name…” we sing:
All creation is filled with rejoicing today, for Christ is baptized in the Jordan. (3)

January 10, 2016
Sunday after Theophany, Octoechos Tone 8; Our Holy Father Gregory, Bishop of Nyssa (after 394); the Venerable Dometian, Bishop of Miletene (582-602)

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 8

  1. Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name.

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

  1. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me.

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

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

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.

In Tone 2

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

Our Light that enlightens all
comes to be baptized.
The Forerunner sees Him and rejoices in His soul.
His hand trembles as he shows Him to the people:
“Behold, the Redeemer of Israel,
the One Who frees us from corruption.”
O sinless One, Christ our God, glory to You!

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

A servant baptized our Redeemer,
and the coming of the Spirit bore witness to Him.
The hosts of Angels saw this and shook with fear.
And the voice of the Father was heard from heaven:
“This One on Whom the Forerunner lays his hand,
He is My beloved Son; I am well pleased in Him.”
O Christ our God, glory to You!

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

The streams of the Jordan received You, their Source,
and the Comforter descended in the form of a dove.
He Who bowed the heavens now bows His head.
The Clay cries aloud to the Potter:
“Why do you command me to do what is beyond me;
for I rather should be baptized by You?”
O sinless One, Christ our God, glory to You!

In Tone 5

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

Righteous Father, holy Gregory:
flute played by the breath of the Paraclete,
filled with the clear melody of godliness,
candlestick enlightening many with divine light,
herald of truth, foundation of theology,
fountain of heavenly doctrine,
torrent of teaching sweet as honey,
lyre, playing songs written by God,
gladdening the hearts of the faithful!
Wise one, pray without ceasing to Christ,
Who was baptized in the streams of Jordan for the renewal of the world,
that He may save our souls!

  1. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

Righteous Father, all praised Gregory,
battle axe hewing down the assaults of heresy!
Two-edged sword of the Paraclete,
dagger piercing the heart of false doctrine,
fire consuming the brushwood of error,
fan skillful to separate the chaff of vanities from the kernel of doctrine,
rule measuring the way to salvation with precision!
Pray without ceasing to Christ,
Who was baptized in the streams of Jordan for the renewal of the world,
that He may save our souls!

In Tone 1

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

He, who once threatened to destroy the whole earth,
and boasted that he would blot out all the sea,
is shown today to be mocked by the faithful as a sparrow,
and more the butt of scorn than the little gnat,
whose shape was stripped away like that of a scarecrow,
and is trampled underfoot by the servant of Christ.

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

Today, O faithful,
Dometian calls us to a holy feast most pleasing to God.
Let us gather joyfully and with cheerful spirit
celebrate his wonderful achievements,
entreating the Savior of our souls That He grant peace to the world!

In Tone 4, Glory…

Gregory of Nyssa,
you were adorned with wise words and valiant deeds.
You gladden the faithful with your God-proclaiming voice;
you enlighten us with knowledge
explaining the unity of the Trinity.
You defeated alien teachings with true doctrine;
you established the faith with strength!
Now you stand before Christ with His bodiless servants:
Pray that He may grant peace and great mercy to our souls!

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.

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 4, Glory…

God-revealing Gregory,
you passed your life in godliness.
You made your actions radiant through contemplation,
you desired divine wisdom for your love;
you were enriched with graces flowing from the Spirit!
Your words drip with sweetness, like honey from the comb,
you gladden the Church of God with your divine thoughts!
Now you gaze upon the Lord in heaven:
Never cease to pray for us who honour your memory.

Now…

John the Baptist saw You draw near.
Who cleanse the sin of the world by Spirit and by fire.
He cried aloud in fear and trembling and said:
I dare not touch Your immaculate head.
Sanctify me, Master, by Your Epiphany,
only Lover of mankind!

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, Glory…
O God of our Fathers,* who always deals with us according to your everlasting compassion,* take not your mercy away from us;* but through the prayers of our fathers,* guide our lives along the ways of peace.

In Tone 1, … Now…
When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,** who appeared and enlightened the world.

 

 


DIVINE LITURGY

Antiphon 1
When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course?
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Glory…  Now… Only-Begotten Son…

Antiphon 3
Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.

Entrance
Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.

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 1: When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world.

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

Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light.

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 32:2,1)

Epistle
Ephesians 4:7-13

Alleluia, Tone 5
verse: Your mercies, O Lord, I will sing for ever; from generation to generation I will announce Your truth with my mouth.
verse: For You have said: Mercy shall be built up for ever; in the heavens Your truth shall be prepared. (Psalm 88:2,3)

Gospel
Matthew 4:12-17

Hymn to the Mother of God
O my soul, magnify Christ the King, baptized in the Jordan.
and the Irmos: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you.

Communion Hymn
The grace of God has appeared* bringing salvation to all. (Titus 2:11)* Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest.*  Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 148:1)

Instead of “Blessed is He who comes…” we sing: All creation is filled with rejoicing today, for Christ is baptized in the Jordan.

Instead of “We have seen the true light…” we sing: All creation is filled with rejoicing today, for Christ is baptized in the Jordan.

Instead of “May our mouths…” and “Blessed be the Name…” we sing: All creation is filled with rejoicing today, for Christ is baptized in the Jordan. (3)

January 6, 2016
The Holy Theophany of our Lord, God and Saviour Jesus Christ

GREAT VESPERS AND DIVINE LITURGY OF ST. BASIL THE GREAT

At Psalm 140

In Tone 2

  1. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!

The Forerunner beheld our Enlightenment,
Who has brought light to all mankind,
draw near for baptism:
and he rejoiced in soul while his hand trembled.
And he showed Him to the people, saying:
“Behold, the Redeemer of Israel,
Who sets us free from corruption.”
O sinless Christ our God, glory to You.

  1. Let Yours ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.

The Forerunner beheld our Enlightenment,
Who has brought light to all mankind,
draw near for baptism:
and he rejoiced in soul while his hand trembled.
And he showed Him to the people, saying:
“Behold, the Redeemer of Israel,
Who sets us free from corruption.”
O sinless Christ our God, glory to You.

  1. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.

The hosts of angels were filled with fear,
as they saw our Deliverer baptized by a servant
and receiving witness through the coming of the Spirit.
And the Father’s voice was heard from on high:
“He upon Whom the Forerunner lays his hand,
the same is My beloved Son in Whom I am well pleased.”
O Christ our God, glory to You.

  1. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.

The hosts of angels were filled with fear,
as they saw our Deliverer baptized by a servant
and receiving witness through the coming of the Spirit.
And the Father’s voice was heard from on high:
“He upon Whom the Forerunner lays his hand,
the same is My beloved Son in Whom I am well pleased.”
O Christ our God, glory to You.

  1. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.

The streams of the Jordan received You Who are the fountain,
and the Comforter descended in the form of a dove.
He Who bowed the heavens, bowed His head,
and the clay cried aloud to Him that formed him:
“Why do You command of me what lies beyond my power?
For I have need to be baptized of You.”
O sinless Christ our God, glory to You.

  1. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

The streams of the Jordan received You Who are the fountain,
and the Comforter descended in the form of a dove.
He Who bowed the heavens, bowed His head,
and the clay cried aloud to Him that formed him:
“Why do You command of me what lies beyond my power?
For I have need to be baptized of You.”
O sinless Christ our God, glory to You.

  1. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.

Wishing to save man gone astray,
You have not disdained to clothe Yourself in the form of a servant.
For it befitted You, as Master and God,
to take upon Yourself our nature for our sakes.
For You, O Deliverer, have been baptized in the flesh,
making us worthy of forgiveness.
Therefore, we cry to You:
“O Christ our God and Benefactor, glory to You.

  1. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.

Wishing to save man gone astray,
You have not disdained to clothe Yourself in the form of a servant.
For it befitted You, as Master and God,
to take upon Yourself our nature for our sakes.
For You, O Deliverer, have been baptized in the flesh,
making us worthy of forgiveness.
Therefore, we cry to You:
“O Christ our God and Benefactor, glory to You.

Glory… Now…

You have bowed Your head before the Forerunner
and have crushed the heads of the dragons.
You have descended into the waters,
and have given light to all things,
that they may glorify You, O Saviour,
the Enlightenment of our souls.

Prokeimenon
of the day

Readings
Genesis 1: 1-13;
Exodus 14: 15-18, 21-23, 27-29
Exodus 15: 22- 16: 1

Then the priest intones the entire text of the following Troparion in Tone 5:
O Creator of the world, You have appeared in the world to give light to those that sit in darkness. Glory to You who love mankind.

When the priest has finished, we respond by repeating the conclusion:
To give light to those that sit in darkness.* Glory to You who love mankind.

Then the priest intones the following verses of Psalm 66 (67), and we repeat the Troparion’s conclusion after each verse.

God, be merciful to us and bless us; make the light of Your face shine upon us and have mercy on us. That we may know Your way upon earth, Your salvation among all nations.

Response: To give light to those that sit in darkness.* Glory to You who love mankind.

Let the peoples give praise to You O God, may all the peoples give praise to You. Let the nations be glad and rejoice, for You will judge the peoples with justice and guide the nations on earth.

Response: To give light to those that sit in darkness.* Glory to You who love mankind.

Let the peoples give praise to You, O God, may all the peoples give praise to You.

Response: To give light to those that sit in darkness.* Glory to You who love mankind.

The earth has yielded her fruit; may God, our God, bless us. May God bless us, and let all the ends of the earth fear Him.

Response: To give light to those that sit in darkness.* Glory to You who love mankind.

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

Response: To give light to those that sit in darkness.* Glory to You who love mankind.

Then the priest intones the first half of the Troparion:
O Creator of the world, You have appeared in the world.

And we conclude:
To give light to those that sit in darkness.* Glory to You who love mankind.

Joshua the Son of Nun 3:7-8, 15-17
The Fourth Book of Kings (2 Kings) 2:6-14
The Fourth Book of Kings (2 Kings) 5:9-14

Then the priest intones another Troparion in Tone 6:
In the greatness of Your compassion You have revealed Yourself, O our Savior, to sinners and publicans. For where should Your light have shone if not on those who sit in darkness? Glory to You.

When the priest has finished, we respond by repeating the conclusion:
For where should Your light have shone if not on those who sit in darkness? Glory to You.

Then the priest intones the following verses of Psalm 92 (93), and we repeat the Troparion’s conclusion after each verse.

The Lord is King; He is clothed with beauty; the Lord is clothed with strength and has girded Himself. For He has established the world which shall not be shaken.

Response: For where should Your light have shone if not on those who sit in darkness? Glory to You.

Your throne is prepared from of old; You are from everlasting.

Response: For where should Your light have shone if not on those who sit in darkness? Glory to You.

The floods have lifted up, O Lord; the floods have lifted up their voices. The floods shall lift up their breakers with the noise of many waters.

Response: For where should Your light have shone if not on those who sit in darkness? Glory to You.

Wonderful are the surging waves of the sea; wonderful is the Lord on high. Your testimonies have become exceedingly credible; holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days.

Response: For where should Your light have shone if not on those who sit in darkness? Glory to You.

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

Response: For where should Your light have shone if not on those who sit in darkness? Glory to You.

Then the priest intones the first half of the Troparion:
In the greatness of Your compassion You have revealed Yourself, O our Saviour, to sinners and publicans.

And we conclude:
For where should Your light have shone if not on those who sit in darkness? Glory to You.

Isaiah 1:16-20
Genesis 32:1-10
Exodus 2:5-10
Judges 6:36-40
The Third Book of Kings (1 Kings) 18:30-39
The Fourth Book of Kings (2 Kings) 2:19-22
Isaiah 49:8-15

Small Litany

Trisagion

Prokeimenon, Tone 3
The Lord is my light and my Saviour* whom shall I fear (whom shall I fear).
verse: The Lord is the protector of my life; of whom shall I be afraid.

Epistle
1 Corinthians: 9: 19-27

Alleluia, Tone 4
verse: My heart erupts with a goodly theme; I address my words to the king.
verse: You are the most splendidly beautiful of men.

Gospel
Luke 3: 1-18

Hymn to the Mother of God
O my soul, magnify Christ the King, baptized in the Jordan.
and the Irmos: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you.

Communion Verse
Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest. Alleluia. (3)

 


FESTAL MATINS

The Lord Is God, Tone 1

Troparion, Tone 1
At Your Baptism in the Jordan river, O Christ,* the worship due to the Holy Trinity was made manifest,* for the voice of the Father bore You witness by calling You “Beloved Son”* and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove,* confirmed the immutability of this declaration.* O Christ God, who came forth and filled the world with light: * Glory to You! (2)

Glory… Now…
At Your Baptism in the Jordan river, O Christ,* the worship due to the Holy Trinity was made manifest,* for the voice of the Father bore You witness by calling You “Beloved Son”* and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove,* confirmed the immutability of this declaration.* O Christ God, who came forth and filled the world with light: * Glory to You!

Kathisma 2 & Small Litany

Sessional Hymn I
In Tone 3 You have appeared, O Saviour Christ, in the Jordan* and were baptized by the Forerunner:* and testimony was borne to You, that You are the Beloved Son.* So You were revealed as co-eternal with the Father,* and the Holy Spirit descended upon You.* Enlightened by You, we cry: Glory to God in Trinity.

In Tone 4, Glory… Now…
You have sanctified the streams of the Jordan* and crushed the power of sin, O Christ our God.* You have bowed Your head beneath the hand of the Forerunner,* and have delivered mankind from error.* Therefore we pray to You: save Your world.

Kathisma 3 & Small Litany

Sessional Hymn II
In Tone 5 You have wrapped Yourself in the stream of the Jordan,* O You who gloriously clothe Yourself in light,* and You have renewed therein the nature of Adam,* broken by evil disobedience, O Word of God.* Therefore, we praise You and glorify Your holy Epiphany.

In Tone 4, Glory… Now…
O river Jordan, what have you seen to be amazed?* He said, “I have seem Him naked Who cannot be seen, and I trembled.* How should I not tremble before Him and turn back?”* The angles, beholding Him, were afraid:* heaven was filled with wonder and the earth shook,* the sea and all things visible and invisible withdrew.* Christ has appeared in the Jordan to sanctify the waters.

Polyeleos

Exaltation
We extol You,* O Christ the Giver of life,* for You were baptized for us this day in the flesh by John* in the waters of the Jordan.
verse: O God, be gracious and bless us, and let Your face shine upon us, and have mercy on us.
verse: The Lord thundered from heaven; the Most High made His voice resound.
verse: The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the waters have lifted up their voice.
verse: The waters saw You, O God, the waters saw You and were afraid.
Glory… Now…
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. Glory be to You, O God. (3)

Sessional Hymn, Tone 4
O you faithful, come and see where Christ was baptized,* that we may further follow Him to the river Jordan,* and so may draw near to the voice crying in the wilderness,* and behold there how the Creator of Adam suffers His head* to be touched by the hand of a servant in His ineffable loving-kindness.* And let us cry aloud to Him:* You have come and appeared in the Jordan to sanctify the waters.

Glory… Now…
O you faithful, come and see where Christ was baptized,* that we may further follow Him to the river Jordan,* and so may draw near to the voice crying in the wilderness,* and behold there how the Creator of Adam suffers His head* to be touched by the hand of a servant in His ineffable loving-kindness.* And let us cry aloud to Him:* You have come and appeared in the Jordan to sanctify the waters.

Gradual Hymns
1st Antiphon, Tone 4

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
The sea fled at the sight;* the Jordan turned back on its course.
verse: What ailed you, O sea, that you fled? And you, O Jordan, that you turned back?

Let Everything That Has Breath, Tone 4

Gospel
Mark 1:9-11

After Psalm 50, Tone 6
Glory…
All creation* is filled with rejoicing* for Christ is baptized in the Jordan.
Now…
All creation* is filled with rejoicing* for Christ is baptized in the Jordan.
Have mercy on me, God, in your loving kindness, according to the multitude of your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions.
God the Word appeared to mankind in the flesh.* Ready for baptism, He stood in the Jordan and the Forerunner said to Him:* “How shall I stretch forth my hand and touch the head of Him that rules all things?* Though You are the child of Mary,* yet I do know You to be the pre-eternal God.* You whose praises the seraphim sing walk upon the earth.* And I who am but a servant know not how to baptize the Master.”* O Lord past all understanding, glory to You.

Canon
Ode 1, Tone 2
Irmos The Lord mighty in battle uncovered the foundation of the deep and led His servants on dry ground; but He covered their adversaries with the waters, for He has been glorified.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
The Lord, King of the ages, in the streams of the Jordan formed Adam anew, who was fallen into corruption, and He broke in pieces the heads of the dragons that were hidden there: for He has been glorified.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
The Lord, incarnate of the Virgin, having clothed material flesh with the immaterial fire of His divinity, wraps Himself in the waters of the Jordan, for He has been glorified.
Glory… Now…
The Lord who purges away the filth of men was cleansed in the Jordan for heir sake, having of His own will made Himself like unto them, while still remaining that which He was; and He enlightens those in darkness, for He has been glorified.
* * *
Irmos Israel passed through the storm-tossed deep of the sea, that God had turned into dry land: but the dark waters completely covered the chief captains of Egypt in a watery grave through the mighty strength of the right hand of the Master.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
When the Light of the Dawn shone forth upon mortal men, coming from the desert to the streams of the Jordan, You, the King of the Sun, have bowed Your head before him, so that you might snatch our forefather from the land of darkness, and cleanse the creation from all its filth.
Glory… Now…
O Word without beginning, You have buried man with You in the stream: he was corrupted by error, but You make him new again. And the Father testified to You ineffably, saying with a mighty voice: “This is My beloved Child, equal to Me by nature.”
Katavasia The Lord mighty in battle uncovered the foundation of the deep and led His servants on dry ground; but He covered their adversaries with the waters, for He has been glorified.
Katavasia Israel passed through the storm-tossed deep of the sea, that God had turned into dry land: but the dark waters completely covered the chief captains of Egypt in a watery grave through the mighty strength of the right hand of the Master.

Ode 3, Tone 2
Irmos The Lord who gives strength to our kings and exalts the horn of His anointed, is born of a Virgin and comes to baptism. Therefore, let us the faithful cry aloud: None is holy as our God and none is righteous save You, O Lord.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
Rejoice today, O Church of Christ, that before was barren and sadly childless. For through water and the Spirit sons have been born to you, who raise they cry in faith: Non is holy as our God and none is righteous save You, O Lord.
Glory… Now…
With a loud voice the Forerunner cries in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of Christ and make straight the paths for our God, raising your cry in faith: None is holy as our God and none is righteous save You, O Lord.”
* * *

Irmos From the ancient snares have we all been set loose, and the jaws of the devouring lions have been broken: Let us then rejoice exceedingly and open wide our mouths, weaving with words a melody to the Word whose delight it is to bestow gifts upon us.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
He who once assumed the appearance of a malignant serpent and implanted death in the creation, is now cast into darkness by Christ’s coming in the flesh: and by assailing the Master, the Dawn that has shone forth upon us, He crushes his own hateful and loathsome head.
Glory… Now…
The Master draws to Himself the nature made by God, which had been overcome by the tyranny of greed. A new birth He grants to the dwellers upon earth, fashioning them afresh, thereby accomplishing a glorious work: for He has come to deliver and protect mankind.
Katavasia The Lord who gives strength to our kings and exalts the horn of His anointed, is born of a Virgin and comes to baptism. Therefore, let us the faithful cry aloud: None is holy as our God and none is righteous save You, O Lord.
Katavasia From the ancient snares have we all been set loose, and the jaws of the devouring lions have been broken: Let us then rejoice exceedingly and open wide our mouths, weaving with words a melody to the Word whose delight it is to bestow gifts upon us.

Small Litany
Hypakoi, Tone 5
When You brought light to all things by Your Epiphany, the salt sea of unbelief fled and the Jordan was turned back towards its source, thereby exalting us to heaven. By the height of Your divine commandments, preserve us through the intercessions of the Theotokos, O Christ our God, and have mercy on us.

Ode 4
Irmos He whom You have called, O Lord, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness,” heard Your voice when You thundered upon many waters, bearing witness to Your Son. Wholly filled with the Spirit that had come, he cried aloud: “You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.”
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
“Who has ever seen the sun that is bright by nature being cleansed?” the Preacher cried. “How then shall I wash You in the waters, You who are the Brightness of the Glory, the Image of the everlasting Father” How shall I that am grass touch with my hand the fire of Your divinity? For You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.”
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
“Moses, when he came upon You, displayed the holy reverence that he felt: perceiving that it was Your voice that spoke from the bush, he forthwith turned away his gaze. How then shall I behold You openly, how shall I lay my hand upon You? For You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.”
Glory… Now…
“Endowed with an understanding soul and honoured with the power of reason, I yet respect the things that have no soul. For is I baptize You, I shall have as my accusers the mountain that smoked with fire, the sea which fled on either side, and this same Jordan which turned back. For You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.”
* * *
Irmos Cleansed by the fire of a mystic vision the Prophet sang the praises of the renewal of mortal man. Filled with the inspiration of the Spirit, he raised his voice, telling of the Incarnation of the ineffable Word, Who has shattered the dominion of the strong.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
O Word all-shining, sent forth from the Father, You come to dispel utterly the dark and evil night and the sins of mortal men, and by Your baptism to draw up with You, O blessed Lord, bright sons from the streams of the Jordan.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
When he saw in very truth the glorious Word, the Preacher cried out plainly to the creation: “This is He who was before me, though He comes after me according to the flesh. Like us in form, He has shone forth in the strength of the Godhead, to drive away our hateful sin.”
Glory… Now…
That He may lead us back to the life-giving pastures of Paradise, God the Word goes searching for us in the lairs of the dragons. Destroying the terrible snares which the enemy had laid for man, He makes a prisoner of him who bruised all mankind in the heel, and so He saves creation.
Katavasia He whom You have called, O Lord, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness,” heard Your voice when You thundered upon many waters, bearing witness to Your Son. Wholly filled with the Spirit that had come, he cried aloud: “You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.”
Katavasia Cleansed by the fire of a mystic vision the Prophet sang the praises of the renewal of mortal man. Filled with the inspiration of the Spirit, he raised his voice, telling of the Incarnation of the ineffable Word, Who has shattered the dominion of the strong.

Ode 5
Irmos Jesus, the Prince of Life, has come to set loose from condemnation Adam the first-formed man; and though as God He needs no cleansing, yet for the sake of fallen man He is cleansed in the Jordan. In its streams He slew the enmity and grants the peace that passes all understanding.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
A multitude without number came to be baptized by John; and standing in their midst he raised his voice, saying: “You who are disobedient, who has warned you to shun the wrath to come? Offer worthy fruits to Christ, for He is present now and grants peace.”
Glory… Now…
The Husbandman and Creator stands in men’s’ midst as one of them and searches their hearts. In His hand He has taken the winnowing fan, and in the fullness of His wisdom He cleanses the threshing floor of the whole world, dividing wheat from chaff, burning the barren and granting eternal life to those that bring forth good fruit.
* * *
Irmos By the cleansing of the Spirit have we been washed from the poison of the dark and unclean enemy, and we have set out upon a new path free from error, that leads to gladness of heart past all attainment, which only they attain whom God has reconciled unto Himself.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
The Maker saw in the obscurity of sin, in bonds that knew no escape, the man whom He had formed with His own hand. Raising him up, He laid him on His shoulders, and now in abundant floods He washes him clean from the ancient shame of Adam’s sinfulness.
Glory… Now…
In piety and eagerness let us run to the undefiled fountains of the stream of salvation, and let us look upon the Word who gives us to drink from pure waters that satisfy our holy thirst: and gently He heals the disease of the world.
Katavasia Jesus, the Prince of Life, has come to set loose from condemnation Adam the first-formed man; and though as God He needs no cleansing, yet for the sake of fallen man He is cleansed in the Jordan. In its streams He slew the enmity and grants the peace that passes all understanding.
Katavasia By the cleansing of the Spirit have we been washed from the poison of the dark and unclean enemy, and we have set out upon a new path free from error, that leads to gladness of heart past all attainment, which only they attain whom God has reconciled unto Himself.

Ode 6
Irmos The Voice of the Word, the Candlestick of the Light, the Morning Star and Forerunner of the Sun, cried in the wilderness to all the peoples: “Repent and be cleansed while there is yet time. For lo, Christ is at hand, who delivers the world from corruption.”
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
Christ was begotten without change from God the Father, and made flesh without defilement from the Virgin: and as the Forerunner teaches, it is not possible to lose the latchet of His shoes, the bond that joins the Word to our nature. He it is who delivers those born on earth from error.
Glory… Now…
Christ baptizes in the fire of the Last Day those who are disobedient and believe not that He is God: but through the Spirit and by the grace that comes through water He grants a new birth to all who acknowledge His divinity, delivering them from their faults.
* * *
Irmos The Father in a voice full of joy made manifest His Beloved whom He had begotten from the womb. He said, “Truly this is My offspring, of the same nature as Myself: bearing light, he has come forth from mankind, My living Word, in divine providence made a mortal man.”
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
The Prophet, mysteriously swallowed up for the space f three nights in the belly of the sea monster, came forth again, making manifest beforehand to all our  regeneration at the last times and our deliverance from the dragon that slays mankind.
Glory… Now…
When the shining vaults of heaven were opened, He who knew the mysteries saw the Spirit, who proceeds from the Father and rests on the immaculate Word, descending in ways past speech in the form of a dove: and he commanded the multitudes to hasten to the Master.
Katavasia The Voice of the Word, the Candlestick of the Light, the Morning Star and Forerunner of the Sun, cried in the wilderness to all the peoples: “Repent and be cleansed while there is yet time. For lo, Christ is at hand, who delivers the world from corruption.”
Katavasia The Father in a voice full of joy made manifest His Beloved whom He had begotten from the womb. He said, “Truly this is My offspring, of the same nature as Myself: bearing light, he has come forth from mankind, My living Word, in divine providence made a mortal man.”

Small Litany
Kontakion, Tone 4 You have appeared today to the inhabited earth,* and Your light, O Lord, has been marked upon us,* who with knowledge,* sing Your praise:* You have come, You are made manifest,* the Light that no one can approach.
 
Ikos Upon Galilee of the Gentiles, upon the land of Zabulon and the land of Nephthalim, as the prophet said, a great light has shone, even Christ. To those that sat in darkness a bright dawn has appeared as lightning from Bethlehem. The Lord born from Mary, the Sun of Righteousness, sheds His rays upon the whole inhabited earth. Come then, naked children of Adam, and let us clothe ourselves in Him, that we may warm ourselves. You who are a protection and veil to the naked, a light to those in darkness, You have come, You are made manifest, the Light that no one can approach.

Ode 7
Irmos The breath of the wind heavy with dew and the descent of the angel of God preserved the Holy Children from all harm, as they walked in the fiery furnace. Refreshed with dew in the flames, they sang in thanksgiving: “Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our fathers.”
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
In trembling and wonder as if in heaven, the angelic powers stood by the Jordan, watching the great condescension of God: how He who holds dominion over the waters that are above the firmament stood in the waters in bodily form, he who is the God of our fathers.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
The sea and cloud in which the people of Israel were once baptized by Moses the Lawgiver, as hey journeyed from Egypt, prefigured the wonder of the baptism of God. he sea was an image of the water and the cloud an image of the Spirit, whereby we are initiated and cry aloud: Blessed are You, O God of our fathers.
Glory… Now…
O let us all, the faithful, discoursing on divine things, join the angels in never-silent hymn to glorify the God in whom we have received initiation, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the Trinity, consubstantial in Persons yet one God, to whom we sing: Blessed are You, O Lord God of our fathers.
* * *
 
Irmos He who stilled the heat of the flame of the furnace that mounted high in the air and encircled the godly Children, burnt the heads of the dragons in the stream of the Jordan: and with the dew of the Spirit He washes away all the stubborn obscurity of sin.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
The fierce Assyrian flame that prefigured You has been quenched by You, changing it to dew: and now You have clothed Yourself in water, O Christ, and so burn up the evil spoiler hidden in its depths, who calls men to follow the path that leads to destruction.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
Of old the Jordan was parted in two, and the people of Israel passed over on a narrow piece of dry land, prefiguring You, O Lord most powerful, who now makes haste to bear the creation down into the stream, bringing it to a better and changeless path.
Glory… Now…
We know that in the beginning You brought upon the world the all-ruining flood, unto the lamentable destruction of all things, O God who reveal wonders more great and strange: and now, O Christ, You have drowned sin in the waters unto the comfort and salvation of mortal men.
Katavasia The breath of the wind heavy with dew and the descent of the angel of God preserved the Holy Children from all harm, as they walked in the fiery furnace. Refreshed with dew in the flames, they sang in thanksgiving: “Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our fathers.”
Katavasia He who stilled the heat of the flame of the furnace that mounted high in the air and encircled the godly Children, burnt the heads of the dragons in the stream of the Jordan: and with the dew of the Spirit He washes away all the stubborn obscurity of sin.

Ode 8
Irmos The Babylonian furnace, as it poured forth dew, foreshadowed a marvellous mystery: how the Jordan should receive in its streams the immaterial fire, and should encompass the Creator, when he was baptized in the flesh. All you peoples, bless and exalt Him above all forever.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
The Deliverer said to the Forerunner: “Cast aside all fear and, obedient to My command, draw near Me, for by nature I am good and full of love. Yield to My ordinance and baptize Me, who have come down in condescension, whom the peoples bless and exalt forever.”
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
When the Baptist heard the Master’s words, he stretched out his hand in trembling; and as he touched the head of his Creator, he cried aloud to Him who was baptized: “Sanctify me, for You are my God, whom the peoples bless and exalt above all forever.”
Glory… Now…
The Trinity was made manifest in the Jordan. For, supreme in Godhead, the Father proclaimed, saying, “He who is here baptized is My beloved Son,” and the Spirit rested upon His Equal in Godhead, whom the peoples bless and exalt above all forever.
* * *
Irmos The creation finds itself free, and those in darkness are now made sons of light: alone the prince of darkness groans. Let all the inheritance of the nations, that was before in misery, now bless with eagerness Him who has wrought this change.
Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord!
The three godly Children who were sprinkled with the dew of fire plainly prefigured how the Most High God, who shines with the bright rays of a threefold holiness, should mingle with mortal men, to their great blessing, consuming all deadly error in the fire of dew.
Glory… Now…
Let the whole earthly creation clothe itself in white, for this day it is raised up from it fall from heaven. The Word who preserves all things has cleansed it in the flowing waters: washed and resplendent, it has escaped from its former sins.
Katavasia The Babylonian furnace, as it poured forth dew, foreshadowed a marvellous mystery: how the Jordan should receive in its streams the immaterial fire, and should encompass the Creator, when he was baptized in the flesh. All you peoples, bless and exalt Him above all forever.
 
Katavasia The creation finds itself free, and those in darkness are now made sons of light: alone the prince of darkness groans. Let all the inheritance of the nations, that was before in misery, now bless with eagerness Him who has wrought this change.

Ode 9
O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honour than the hosts on high
Irmos Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you.
O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honour than the hosts on high
Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you.
O my soul, magnify Christ the King, baptized in the Jordan.
O David, come in spirit to those who are now to be enlightened and sing: “Approach now to God in faith and receive enlightenment. Fallen Adam, the poor man, cried and the Lord heard him: he has come and in the streams of the Jordan He has made him new again, who was sunk in corruption.”
O my soul, magnify Him who receives baptism from the Forerunner.
O David, come in spirit to those who are now to be enlightened and sing: “Approach now to God in faith and receive enlightenment. Fallen Adam, the poor man, cried and the Lord heard him: he has come and in the streams of the Jordan He has made him new again, who was sunk in corruption.”
O my soul, magnify Him to whom the voice of the Father bore witness.
“Wash you, make you clean,” says Isaiah. “Put away the evil of your doings from before the Lord. Everyone that thirsts, come to the living waters: for Christ will sprinkle with water of renewal those who hasten to Him in faith, and He baptizes them with the Spirit unto life that grows not old.”
O my soul, magnify one of the Trinity who bowed His head and received baptism.
“Wash you, make you clean,” says Isaiah. “Put away the evil of your doings from before the Lord. Everyone that thirsts, come to the living waters: for Christ will sprinkle with water of renewal those who hasten to Him in faith, and He baptizes them with the Spirit unto life that grows not old.”
“O Prophet, come to Me: stretch out your hand and baptize Me swiftly.”
Let us the faithful, keep ourselves safe through grace and through the seal of baptism. In the past the Hebrews fled destruction by marking the doors posts with blood; so also this divine washing unto regeneration shall be our Exodus, and going hence, we shall behold the light of the Trinity that never sets.
“O Prophet, come to Me: stretch out your hand and baptize Me swiftly.”
Let us the faithful, keep ourselves safe through grace and through the seal of baptism. In the past the Hebrews fled destruction by marking the doors posts with blood; so also this divine washing unto regeneration shall be our Exodus, and going hence, we shall behold the light of the Trinity that never sets.
* * *
Today the Master bows His head beneath the hand of the Forerunner.
Irmos O most pure Bride, O blessed Mother, the wonders of your birth-giving pass all understanding. Through you we have obtained salvation in all things, and, as is right and meet, we rejoice before you our Benefactor, bearing as gift a song of thanksgiving.
Today John baptizes the Master in the streams of the Jordan.
O most pure Bride, O blessed Mother, the wonders of your birth-giving pass all understanding. Through you we have obtained salvation in all things, and, as is right and meet, we rejoice before you our Benefactor, bearing as gift a song of thanksgiving.
Today the Master buries in the waters the sin of mortal man.
Today the Master receives testimony from on high that He is the beloved Son.
That which was revealed to Moses in the bush we see accomplished here in a strange manner. The Virgin bore Fire within her, yet was not consumed when she gave birth to the Benefactor who brings us light, and the streams of the Jordan suffered no harm when they received Him.
Today the Master has come to sanctify the nature of the waters.
Today the Master receives baptism at the hand of the Forerunner.
That which was revealed to Moses in the bush we see accomplished here in a strange manner. The Virgin bore Fire within her, yet was not consumed when she gave birth to the Benefactor who brings us light, and the streams of the Jordan suffered no harm when they received Him.
O my soul magnify the power of the undivided Godhead in three Persons.
O King without beginning, through the communion of the Spirit, you anoint and make perfect the nature of mankind. You have cleansed it in the undefiled streams, putting to shame the arrogant force of darkness, and now You translate it unto endless life.
O my soul, magnify her that has delivered us from the curse.
O King without beginning, through the communion of the Spirit, you anoint and make perfect the nature of mankind. You have cleansed it in the undefiled streams, putting to shame the arrogant force of darkness, and now You translate it unto endless life.
O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honour than the hosts on high
Katavasia Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you.
Today the Master bows His head beneath the hand of the Forerunner.
Katavasia O most pure Bride, O blessed Mother, the wonders of your birth-giving pass all understanding. Through you we have obtained salvation in all things, and, as is right and meet, we rejoice before you our Benefactor, bearing as gift a song of thanksgiving.

Small Litany

Exapostilarion, Tone 3
The Saviour, who is grace and truth,* has appeared in the streams of the Jordan,* and enlightened those that sleep in darkness and shadow.* For the Light that no man can approach* has come and is made manifest. (3)

At The Praises, In Tone 1

Light from Light, Christ our God has shone upon the world,
God made manifest:
O peoples, let us worship Him.

Light from Light, Christ our God has shone upon the world,
God made manifest:
O peoples, let us worship Him.

O Christ our Master, how shall we Your servants
give You worthy honour?
For You have renewed us all in the waters.

You, O our Saviour, were baptized in the Jordan
and have sanctified the waters:
accepting a servant’s hand upon Your head,
You heal the passions of the world.
Great is the mystery of Your dispensation.
O Lord who loves mankind, glory to You.

The true Light has appeared and bestows enlightenment on all.
Christ who is above all purity is baptized with us;
He brings sanctification to the water
and it becomes a cleansing for our souls.
That which is outward and visible is earthly,
that which is inwardly understood is higher than heaven.
Salvation comes through washing,
and through water the Spirit:
by descending into the water we ascend to God.
Wonderful are Your works, O Lord, glory to You.

He who covers the heaven with clouds
is Himself covered today by the streams of the Jordan;
and He who takes away the sin of the world is cleansed,
that I may be made clean.
The Only-begotten Son of the Most High Father
receives from above the testimony of the consubstantial Spirit.
Unto Him let us cry aloud:
O Christ our God who made Yourself manifest and saved us,
glory to You.

In Tone 6, Glory…

O Saviour who clothe Yourself with light as with a garment,
You have clothed Yourself in the waters of the Jordan;
and You who have measured heaven with a span,
have bowed Your head before the Forerunner,
so that You might turn the world back from error
and save our souls.

Now…

Today Christ has come to be baptized in the Jordan;
today John touches the head of the Master.
the powers of heaven are amazed
as they behold the marvellous mystery.
The sea saw it and fled;
the Jordan at the sight was driven back.
And we who have been enlightened cry aloud:
Glory to God made manifest,
who has appeared upon earth and brought light to the world.

 


DIVINE LITURGY

Antiphon 1
When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course?
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Glory… Now…
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.

Antiphon 2
I am filled with love,* for the Lord will hear the voice of my plea.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
For He has inclined His ear to me,* and I will call to Him all the days of my life.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
The pangs of death encircled me,* the trials of Hades befell me.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
Merciful and just is the Lord;* our God shows compassion.
Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
Glory… Now… Only-begotten Son…

Antiphon 3
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His mercy endures forever.
Troparion, Tone 1 When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world.
Therefore, let the house of Israel say that He is good, for His mercy endures forever.
Troparion, Tone 1 When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world.
Therefore, let the house of Aaron say that He is good, for His mercy endures forever.
Troparion, Tone 1 When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world.
Let all who fear the Lord say that He is good, for His mercy endures forever.
Troparion, Tone 1 When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world.

Entrance
Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord, we bless you from the house of the Lord; the Lord is God and has appeared to us.

Troparion and Kontakion
Troparion, Tone 1 When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world.

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

Kontakion, Tone 4 Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light.

Instead of the Trisagion Hymn
All you, who have been baptized into Christ, you have put on Christ! Alleluia!

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord; God the Lord has appeared to us.
verse: Give thanks to the Lord for He is good for His mercy endures forever.

Epistle
Titus 2: 11-15; 3: 4-7

Alleluia, Tone 4
verse: Bring to the Lord, you sons of God; bring to the Lord young rams.
verse: The voice of the Lord is over the waters, the God of glory has thundered, the Lord reigns over vast waters.

Gospel
Matthew 3: 13-17
Instead of It is truly right we sing:
O my soul, magnify Christ the King, baptized in the Jordan. And the Irmos: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you.

Communion Hymn
The Grace of God has appeared bringing salvation to all. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

Instead of Blessed is He who comes…, We have seen the true light… we sing:
All creation is filled with rejoicing today, for Christ is baptized in the Jordan.

Instead of May our mouths… and Blessed be the Name… we sing:
All creation is filled with rejoicing today, for Christ is baptized in the Jordan. (3)