Author: Michael Winn

Great Vespers and Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great

Great Vespers with the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great for the Feast of Theophany is celebrated in the late afternoon or early evening on January 5. The Great Blessing of the Water is taken at the end of this service.

At Psalm 140

In Tone 2

8. 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.

7. 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.

6. 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.

5. 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.

4. 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.

3. 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.

2. 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.
verse: The Lord is the protector of my life; of whom shall I be afraid. (Psalm 26:1)

Epistle
1 Corinthians 9:19-27
Brethren, For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you.

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

Alleluia, Tone 6
verse: My heart erupts with a goodly theme; I address my words to the king.
verse: You are the most splendidly beautiful of men. (Psalm 44:2,3)

Gospel
Luke 3:1-18
Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, while Annas and Caiaphas were high priests, the word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, saying:

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.
Every valley shall be filled
And every mountain and hill brought low;
The crooked places shall be made straight
And the rough ways smooth;
And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’”

Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”

So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?”

He answered and said to them, “He who has two tunics, let him give to him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise.”

Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?”

And he said to them, “Collect no more than what is appointed for you.”

Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?”

So he said to them, “Do not intimidate anyone or accuse falsely, and be content with your wages.”

Now as the people were in expectation, and all reasoned in their hearts about John, whether he was the Christ or not, John answered, saying to all, “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather the wheat into His barn; but the chaff He will burn with unquenchable fire.”

And with many other exhortations he preached to the people.

Hymn to the Mother of God
In you, O Full of Grace, all creation rejoices: the angelic ranks and all the human race. Sanctified temple and spiritual paradise, virgins’ pride and boast, from whom God is made flesh and became a little Child; and He who is our God before all ages, He made your womb a throne, and He made it wider that all the heavens. In you, O Full of Grace, all creation rejoices. Glory be to you.

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

 

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The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom is celebrated in the morning on January 6. The Great Blessing of the Water is taken (again) at the end of this service.

Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

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
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.

Troparia and Kontakia
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 Holy God:
All you who have been baptized into Christ, you have put on Christ! Alleluia! (3)
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen.
You have put on Christ! Alleluia!
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. (Psalm 117:26-27,1)

Epistle
Titus 2:11-15; 3:4-7
Titus, my son, the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.

But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

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)

Gospel
Matthew 3:13-17
At that time, Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?”

But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him.

When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

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)

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 8

10. 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.

9. 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.

8. 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 8

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

In his love for mankind,
the Saviour condescended and willed to be wrapped in swaddling clothes.
Eight days old according to his mother
and eternal according to his Father,
He did not look down upon the circumcision of the flesh.
Therefore, O believers, let us cry out to Him:
You are our God; have mercy on us!

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

In his love for mankind,
the Saviour condescended and willed to be wrapped in swaddling clothes.
Eight days old according to his mother
and eternal according to his Father,
He did not look down upon the circumcision of the flesh.
Therefore, O believers, let us cry out to Him:
You are our God; have mercy on us!

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

The all-good God was not ashamed to be circumcised in the flesh,
but He offered himself as a symbol
and an example of salvation to all.
For the Maker of the law submitted Himself to its commands
and to what the prophets beforehand told of Him.
O our God Who hold all things in Your hands,
and yet were wrapped in swaddling clothes,
O Lord, glory to You!

In Tone 4

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

You have been called by the name of Basil, after the kingdom.
In your kingly rank you led the people of Christ to wisdom and knowledge.
Then the Lord of all and King of Kings
adorned you with the crown of the kingdom, O Basil.
He is the everlasting and co-eternal Son
who was united to her that bore Him.
Therefore, intercede with Him
that He may enlighten and save our souls.

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

You have been called by the name of Basil, after the kingdom.
In your kingly rank you led the people of Christ to wisdom and knowledge.
Then the Lord of all and King of Kings
adorned you with the crown of the kingdom, O Basil.
He is the everlasting and co-eternal Son
who was united to her that bore Him.
Therefore, intercede with Him
that He may enlighten and save our souls.

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

Adorned with the vestments of a bishop, O Basil,
you gladly proclaimed the Gospel of the kingdom
and poured out the teachings of the true faith for the Church.
Now enlightened by them, we confess and glorify
the one Godhead, indivisible in three Persons;
namely the almighty Father, the only-begotten Word of God, and the Divine Spirit.
Intercede with Him
that He may enlighten and save our souls.

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

You are now living among the ranks of the heavenly powers, O Basil,
for you imitated their life with the purity of your way of living.
When you were in the flesh,
you lived on earth as one without flesh.
Therefore, intercede with Christ our God for us
who delight in your God-inspired teachings,
that He may protect us from dangers and the darkness of ignorance,
and that He may enlighten our souls.

In Tone 8, Glory…

O venerable Father, you became a lover of wisdom,
preferring life with God to all possessions of the world.
Your contemplation of death made you forsake the wealth of the earth,
and by your perseverance in fasting,
you overcame the sting of passions.
By study of the divine law
you preserved the freedom within your soul.
By your generous practice of virtue
you subjected the passions of the flesh to the spirit.
You renounced the flesh, the world, and the princes of the earth;
now you stand in the presence of Christ.
Intercede with Him for great mercy upon 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.

Readings
Genesis 17:1-14; Proverbs 8:22-30; Proverbs 10:31-11:12

Lytia

In Tone 3

With your life of purity, O holy Basil,
you attracted Christ, the fountain of life, to dwell in your soul.
You channelled streams of inspired teachings to the world.
The faithful people of the Church drink from them
and acknowledge the teachings of your lips
and offer good works to Him
who glorified your memory for all ages.

The holy chrism of grace was poured out upon you, O God-inspired Basil,
and anointed you as minister of the Gospel of the kingdom of heaven.
You were the sweet fragrance of Christ;
you filled the earth with the fragrance of His knowledge.
Graciously hear the voices of your servants
and ask abundant mercy for us who honour you.

Clothed in priestly vestments, holy Basil,
O defender of the Trinity,
you stood before the tribunal,
braving danger for the faith.
You resisted with the undaunted courage of a martyr.
You put to shame the anger of the bold emperor
who was filled with the power of the ungodly.
You willingly decided beforehand
to accept the sufferings that he threatened.
Having been ready of your own choice to be a martyr,
you received the crown of victory from Christ
Who has shown great mercy.

In Tone 6, Glory…

The grace flowed from your lips, O holy Father Basil.
You were the shepherd of the Church of Christ,
teaching your spiritual sheep to believe in the holy Trinity,
consubstantial on the one Godhead.

In Tone 8, Now…

In His love for mankind,
the Saviour condescended and willed to be wrapped in swaddling clothes.
Eight days old according to His mother
and eternal according to His Father,
He did not look down upon the circumcision of the flesh.
Therefore, O believers, let us cry out to Him:
You are our God, have mercy on us!

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 6, Glory…

O all-blessed Basil, you received the grace of miracles from heaven
and exposed the errors of the heathen by your doctrines.
You are the glory and support of bishops,
and an example of the teachings of all the Fathers.
Therefore, having received favour with Christ,
intercede with Him for the salvation of our souls.

In Tone 8, Now…

The all-good God was not ashamed to be circumscribed in the flesh,
but He offered Himself as a symbol
and an example of salvation to all.
For the Maker of the Law submitted Himself to its commands
and to what the prophets beforehand told of Him.
O our God Who holds all things in Your hands
and yet were wrapped in swaddling clothes,
glory to You!

Troparia

In Tone 1
Your message has spread through all the earth:* it accepted the word with which you taught in a manner befitting God.* You explained the nature of things and ordered human conduct.* O namesake of the royal priesthood, venerable Father Basil,* pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved. (Twice, with no Glory…Now… in between)

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

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DIVINE LITURGY

The Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great is celebrated today.

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: You are seated on high on a fiery throne,* with Your Father who is without beginning and Your divine Spirit.* Yet You willed, O Jesus, to be born of a virgin maiden, Your Mother,* as a man, You were circumcised on the eighth day.* Glory to Your all-gracious will,* glory to Your providence,* glory to Your condescension, O You who alone love mankind.

Troparion, Tone 1: Your message has spread through all the earth:* it accepted the word with which you taught in a manner befitting God.* You explained the nature of things and ordered human conduct.* O namesake of the royal priesthood, venerable Father Basil,* 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: You have appeared as a firm foundation for the Church,* maintaining its authority as a sure refuge for mortals,* sealing it by your doctrine,* O venerable Basil,* revealer of heaven.

Now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Kontakion, Tone 3: The Lord of all submits to circumcision* and in His love cuts off the failings of mortals;* today He gives the world salvation.* While in the highest there rejoices* Basil the hierarch of the Creator and bearer of Light,* and the divine initiate of Christ.

Prokeimenon, Tone 6
Save Your people, O Lord,* and bless Your inheritance.
verse: Unto You I will cry, O Lord my God, lest You turn from me in silence. (Psalm 27:9,1)

Prokeimenon, Tone 1
My mouth shall speak wisdom;* and the meditation of heart, understanding. (Psalm 48:4)

Epistle
2 Timothy 4:5-8; Colossians 2:8-12

Alleluia, Tone 8
verse: God, be merciful to us and bless us.
verse: make the light of Your face shine upon us and have mercy on us. (Psalm 66:2)
verse: Give heed, O Shepherd of Israel, You who lead Joseph like sheep. (Psalm 79:2)
verse: The mouth of the righteous shall declaim wisdom, and his tongue shall speak justice. (Psalm 36:30)

Gospel
Mark 1:1-8; Luke 2:20-21, 40-52

Hymn to the Mother of God
In you, O Full of Grace, all creation rejoices: the angelic ranks and all the human race. Sanctified temple and spiritual paradise, virgins’ pride and boast, from whom God is made flesh and became a little Child; and He who is our God before all ages, He made your womb a throne, and He made it wider that all the heavens. In you, O Full of Grace, all creation rejoices. Glory be to you.

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. (Psalm 111:6-7)* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.

GREAT VESPERS

At Psalm 140

In Tone 2

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

Come, let us rejoice in the Lord
as we tell of the present mystery.
Destroyed is the middle wall of partition;
the flaming sword turns back, the cherubim withdraw from the tree of life,
and I partake of the delight of Paradise from which I was cast out through disobedience.
For the Father’s express Image, the Imprint of His eternity,
takes the form of a servant,
and without undergoing change He comes forth from a Mother who knew not wedlock.
For what He was, He has remained, true God:
and what He was not, He has taken upon Himself, becoming man through love for mankind.
To Him let us cry aloud:
God born of a Virgin, have mercy on us.

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

Come, let us rejoice in the Lord
as we tell of the present mystery.
Destroyed is the middle wall of partition;
the flaming sword turns back, the cherubim withdraw from the tree of life,
and I partake of the delight of Paradise from which I was cast out through disobedience.
For the Father’s express Image, the Imprint of His eternity,
takes the form of a servant,
and without undergoing change He comes forth from a Mother who knew not wedlock.
For what He was, He has remained, true God:
and what He was not, He has taken upon Himself, becoming man through love for mankind.
To Him let us cry aloud:
God born of a Virgin, have mercy on us.

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

When Jesus the Lord was born of the holy Virgin,
the whole world was enlightened.
The shepherds watched in the fields,
the Magi adored and the angels sang hymns of praise;
but Herod was troubled: for God appeared in the flesh,
the Saviour of our souls.

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

When Jesus the Lord was born of the holy Virgin,
the whole world was enlightened.
The shepherds watched in the fields,
the Magi adored and the angels sang hymns of praise;
but Herod was troubled: for God appeared in the flesh,
the Saviour of our souls.

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

Your Kingdom, O Christ our God,
is a Kingdom of all the ages,
and Your rule is from generation to generation.
Made flesh of the Holy Spirit and made man of the ever-Virgin Mary,
You have enlightened us by Your coming.
Light of Light, Brightness of the Father,
You have made all creation shine with joy.
Everything that breathes praises You,
the Image of the Father’s glory.
O God–the One who is–and always was,
who shone forth from a Virgin, have mercy on us.

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

Your Kingdom, O Christ our God,
is a Kingdom of all the ages,
and Your rule is from generation to generation.
Made flesh of the Holy Spirit and made man of the ever-Virgin Mary,
You have enlightened us by Your coming.
Light of Light, Brightness of the Father,
You have made all creation shine with joy.
Everything that breathes praises You,
the Image of the Father’s glory.
O God–the One who is–and always was,
who shone forth from a Virgin, have mercy on us.

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

O Christ what shall we offer You;
for our sake You appeared on earth as man?
Every creature made by You offers thanks to You.
The angels offer You a hymn; the heavens, a star;
the Magi, gifts; the shepherds, their wonder;
the earth, its cave; the wilderness, the manger:
and we offer You a Virgin Mother.
O pre-eternal God, have mercy on us.

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

O Christ what shall we offer You;
for our sake You appeared on earth as man?
Every creature made by You offers thanks to You.
The angels offer You a hymn; the heavens, a star;
the Magi, gifts; the shepherds, their wonder;
the earth, its cave; the wilderness, the manger:
and we offer You a Virgin Mother.
O pre-eternal God, have mercy on us.

Glory…Now…

When Augustus reigned alone on earth,
the many kingdoms of men came to an end;
and when You were made man of the pure Virgin,
the many gods of idolatry were made powerless.
The cities of the world passed under one single rule;
and the nations came to believe in one sovereign Godhead.
The peoples were enrolled by the decree of Caesar;
and we, the faithful, were enrolled in the name
of the divinity,
when You, our God, were made man.
Great is Your mercy: Lord, glory to You.

Readings
Genesis 1:1-13; Numbers 24:2-3, 5-9, and 17-18; Micah 4:6-7 and 5:2-4a

Then, the priest intones the entire text of the following Troparion:

You were born in a cave hidden from sight, but heaven spoke through a star and proclaimed You to all, O Saviour. And it brought to You the Magi, who with faith bowed down in worship. Have mercy on them and us.

When the priest has finished, we respond by repeating the conclusion (Tone 6, resurrectional, even though the custom has developed of singing this conclusion to the prokeimenon melody – a custom that is less appropriate):

Response: And it brought to You the Magi,* who with faith bowed down in worship.* Have mercy on them and us.

Then the priest intones the following verses of Psalm 86, and we repeat the Troparion’s conclusion after each verse.

His foundations are on the holy mountains; the Lord loves the gates of Sion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things were spoken of You, O city of God.

Response: And it brought to You the Magi,* who with faith bowed down in worship.* Have mercy on them and us.

To those who know Me I will mention Raab and Babylon. And, behold, foreigners and the people of Tyre and Ethiopia, these were born there.

Response: And it brought to You the Magi,* who with faith bowed down in worship.* Have mercy on them and us.

A person will say “Mother Sion,” and “Such a person was born in her,” and “The Most High Himself founded her.”

Response: And it brought to You the Magi,* who with faith bowed down in worship.* Have mercy on them and us.

The Lord will declare this in His record of the peoples and rulers who were born in her. How happy are all who have their dwelling in you.

Response: And it brought to You the Magi,* who with faith bowed down in worship.* Have mercy on them and us.

Glory… Now…

Response: And it brought to You the Magi,* who with faith bowed down in worship.* Have mercy on them and us.

Then the priest intones the first half of the Troparion:

You were born in a cave hidden from sight, but heaven spoke through a star and proclaimed You to all, O Saviour.

And we conclude:

And it brought to You the Magi,* who with faith bowed down in worship.* Have mercy on them and us.

 

Readings
Isaiah 11:1-10; Baruch 3:36-38 and 4:1-4; Daniel 2:31-36 and 44-45

Then the priest intones another Troparion (Tone 6):

You have shone forth from a Virgin, O Christ, rational Sun of righteousness. And a star showed You, Whom nothing can contain, contained in a cave. You led Magi to worship You and along with them we magnify You: Glory to You, O Giver of life.

When the priest has finished, we respond by repeating the conclusion (Tone 6, resurrectional):

Response: You led Magi to worship You* and along with them we magnify You:* Glory to You, O Giver of life.

Then the priest intones the following verses of Psalm 92, 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: You led Magi to worship You* and along with them we magnify You:* Glory to You, O Giver of life.

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

Response: You led Magi to worship You* and along with them we magnify You:* Glory to You, O Giver of life.

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: You led Magi to worship You* and along with them we magnify You:* Glory to You, O Giver of life.

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: You led Magi to worship You* and along with them we magnify You:* Glory to You, O Giver of life.

Glory… Now…

Response: You led Magi to worship You* and along with them we magnify You:* Glory to You, O Giver of life.

Then the priest intones the first half of the Troparion:

You have shone forth from a Virgin, O Christ, rational Sun of righteousness. And a star showed You, Whom nothing can contain, contained in a cave.

And we conclude:

Response: You led Magi to worship You* and along with them we magnify You:* Glory to You, O Giver of life.

Readings
Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 7:10-16, 8:1-4, and 8-10

Then, the Small Litany  followed by the Prokeimenon:

Tone 1 Prokeimenon – Psalm 2
The Lord said to Me: You are My Son,* today have I begotten You.
verse: Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations as an inheritance, and as Your possession, the ends of the earth.

Epistle
Galatians 3:15-22

Alleluia, Tone 5
verse: The Lord said to my lord, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies the footstool of your feet.”
verse: The Lord will send you a sceptre of power out of Sion; reign in the midst of your enemies.
verse: Yours is the dominion on the day you are given power in the splendour of your holy ones.

Gospel
Matthew 13:31-36

Triple Ekteny

Deign, O Lord

Festive Dismissal

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DIVINE LITURGY ON CHRISTMAS DAY

Antiphon 1
I will confess You, Lord, with all my heart,* I will declare all Your wondrous deeds.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
In the council of the just and the congregation,* great are the works of the Lord, conforming to His will in every way.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
His work is filled with praise and majesty,* and His righteousness endures forever.
Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us.
Glory…  Now…
Only-Begotten Son…

Antiphon 3
The Lord said to my lord, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies the footstool of your feet.”

Troparion, Tone 4: Your Nativity, O Christ our God,* made the light of knowledge dawn on the world:* through it, those who worshipped the stars were taught by a star* to worship You, the Sun of Righteousness,* and to know that You, the Dawn from on the high.* Glory to You, O Lord.

The Lord will send you a sceptre of power out of Sion; reign in the midst of your enemies.

Troparion, Tone 4: Your Nativity, O Christ our God,* made the light of knowledge dawn on the world:* through it, those who worshipped the stars were taught by a star* to worship You, the Sun of Righteousness,* and to know that You, the Dawn from on the high.* Glory to You, O Lord.

Yours is the dominion on the day you are given power in the splendour of your holy ones.

Troparion, Tone 4: Your Nativity, O Christ our God,* made the light of knowledge dawn on the world:* through it, those who worshipped the stars were taught by a star* to worship You, the Sun of Righteousness,* and to know that You, the Dawn from on the high.* Glory to You, O Lord.

Entrance
From the womb before the daystar I begot you. the Lord has sworn an oath and will not go back on His word: You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 4: Your Nativity, O Christ our God,* made the light of knowledge dawn on the world:* through it, those who worshipped the stars were taught by a star* to worship You, the Sun of Righteousness,* and to know that You, the Dawn from on the high.* Glory to You, O Lord.

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

Kontakion, Tone 3: The Virgin today gives birth to Him who is above all being;* the earth offers the cave to Him whom no one can approach;* Angel with shepherds give Him glory,* while Magi make their way with a star,* for to us is born a little Child – the pre-eternal God.

Instead of Holy God:
All you who have been baptized into Christ, you have put on Christ! Alleluia! (3)
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen.
You have put on Christ! Alleluia!
All you who have been baptized into Christ, you have put on Christ! Alleluia!

Prokeimenon, Tone 8
Let all the earth worship You and sing to You; let it sing to Your Name, O Most High.
verse: Shout to the Lord, all the earth, sing now to His name, give glory to His praise. (Psalm 65:4,2)

Epistle
Galatians 4:4-7

Alleluia, Tone 1
verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hands.
verse: Day announces its message unto day and night proclaims its knowledge unto night. (Psalm 18:2,3)

Gospel
Matthew 2:1-12

Hymn to the Mother of God
O my soul, magnify Christ the King born in a manger.
and the Irmos: A strange and glorious mystery do I behold:* the cave is heaven;* the Virgin, the throne of the cherubim;* the manger, a dwelling place* in which is laid Christ, the God Whom nothing can contain.* Singing His praises, we magnify Him.

Communion Hymn
The Lord has sent deliverance* to His people.* Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. (Psalm 110:9)

Instead of “Blessed is He who comes…” we sing:
All creation is filled with rejoicing today, for Christ is born of a Virgin.

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

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

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glory to Your might, O Lord,
for You have conquered the power of death.
You have renewed us through Your Cross,
granting us life and incorruption.

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

We forever bless the Lord and praise His resurrection,
for by suffering crucifixion,
He has destroyed death by His death.

In Tone 8

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

The commemoration of the holy Fathers
is manifested to the ends of the world.
It is truly full of splendour,
and it glistens with the rays of grace;
for Christ the splendorous Sun has shone forth on high from afar.
He forms the assembly of stars which glisten with Him,
and the star reveals that the nativity of the God-man will be in Bethlehem.
Therefore, we piously and faithfully clap our hands
and leap for joy at this nativity,
and we give praise before the feast.

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

The commemoration of the holy Fathers
is manifested to the ends of the world.
It is truly full of splendour,
and it glistens with the rays of grace;
for Christ the splendorous Sun has shone forth on high from afar.
He forms the assembly of stars which glisten with Him,
and the star reveals that the nativity of the God-man will be in Bethlehem.
Therefore, we piously and faithfully clap our hands
and leap for joy at this nativity,
and we give praise before the feast.

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

The Holy Fathers are adorned
by the glory of the divine sharing of our nature.
Adam rejoices today,
since he is the foundation and the strength of the wise Forefathers;
Abel leaps for joy as well.
Enoch is glad; Seth and Noah dance together.
The praiseworthy Abraham sings with the Patriarchs.
Melchizedek now sees from on high
the birth without a father.

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

The faithful and God-wise youths
are radiant with joy in the furnace.
They herald the nativity of Christ on earth.
As the precious dew which the Lord sent down,
He now preserves the Virgin without stain
and enriches her sublime with gifts.
Therefore, Daniel, inspired by God,
is also happy and full of joy
because he had a clear vision of the unhewn stone of the mountain.
He now zealously prays for our souls.

In Tone 6, Glory…

Daniel was a beloved man.
He saw You, O Lord, as the Rock
which was hewn without the use of a hand.
He foretold that You, the Incarnate Word,
the Unchangeable God, and Saviour of our souls,
would be born without seed
as a Child of the Virgin.

In Tone 6, Now…

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

Readings
(1) Genesis 14:14-20; (2) Deuteronomy 1:8-11, 15-17; (3) Deuteronomy 10:14-21

Aposticha

In Tone 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Tone 2, Glory…

Rejoice, O illustrious Prophets!
You firmly established the Law of the Lord,
and you faithfully manifested yourselves
to be invincible and unshakeable pillars.
You have been taken to heaven
and have shown yourselves to be mediators of the new Law of Christ.
Implore Him to give peace tot he world
and to save our souls.

Now…

We now behold a new wonder
greater than the wonders of old.
For who has ever known a mother to bear a child without the help of man?
Who has known as mother to hold within her arms the Source of all creation?
It was God’s own will to be born in this manner;
and you, O most Virgin, carried Him as an infant in your arms.
Because of this, you can approach God with the boldness of a mother.
Therefore, we venerate you and ask you to always beseech Him
to have mercy on us and save our souls.

Troparia

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

In Tone 2, Glory…
Great are the achievements of faith!* In the fountain of flames, the three holy youths rejoiced as by the water of rest,* and the prophet Daniel was revealed shepherding lions like sheep.* Through their intercession, O Christ God, save our souls.

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.

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

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

Troparion, Tone 2: Great are the achievements of faith!* In the fountain of flames, the three holy youths rejoiced as by the water of rest,* and the prophet Daniel was revealed shepherding lions like sheep.* Through their intercession, O Christ God,* save our souls.

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

Kontakion, Tone 6: Armed by the Being that defies description* You defied the man-made idol, O thrice blessed youth.* In the midst of the unbearable flames you stood and cried out to God:* “In Your mercy, O gracious One, hasten and come to our aid,”* for You can do whatever You will.

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
Blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers,* and praised and glorified is Your Name forever.
verse: For You are righteous in everything that You have done to us. (Daniel 3:26,27)

Epistle
Hebrews 11:9-10,17-23,32-40

Alleluia, Tone 4
verse: O God, we have heard with our ears, and our fathers have told us the work You did in their days.
verse: You saved us from our oppressors and put to shame those who hate us. (Psalm 43:2,8)

Gospel
Matthew 1:1-25

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 (Psalm 32:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 5

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

With Your precious Cross, O Christ,
You have put the Devil to shame.
With Your Resurrection You have deadened the sting of Death.
We, therefore, glorify You, O only-begotten Son of God.

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

O Christ, Who granted resurrection to mankind,
You were led like a lamb to the slaughter.
Then the princes of Hades were struck with terror
as they saw the gates of their tearful domain being lifted up;
for Christ, the King of Glory, entered therein
and exclaimed to those in chains: Go forth from here!
And to those in darkness: Go forth into the light!

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

What a great wonder!
The Creator of invisible beings suffered in the flesh for mankind,
and rose from the dead as immortal.
Come, therefore, all you nations and adore Him;
for through His compassion we have been freed from the snares of the Devil,
and we have learned to praise the one God in three Persons.

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

We offer to You our evening worship,
O Light Whom the darkness of night can never extinguish.
For in these latter days Your radiance has appeared to the world,
shining in Your flesh as light reflected in a mirror.
Your brilliance has descended even to the depths of Hades and dissolved its gloom.
O Lord, Giver of Light, glory to You;
for You have shown the radiance of Your Resurrection to all the nations.

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

Let us glorify Christ, the Author of our Salvation;
for by His Resurrection from the dead,
the world has been delivered from the deception of Satan.
The choirs of angels rejoice as the treachery of evil spirits vanishes.
Fallen Adam arises, and the Devil is vanquished.

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

Those who guarded the tomb of Christ
were told by the evil men who hired them:
Take this silver and keep silent.
Tell no one of the Resurrection of Christ;
rather tell everyone that while you were sleeping His body was stolen.
But who has ever heard of a body being stolen,
a body which had already been anointed?
Why would anyone take a body from the grave naked,
and leave the burial shroud in the tomb?
Do not deceive yourselves, O people of Judea.
Study the teachings of the Prophets,
and you will come to understand that Jesus Christ is Almighty God,
and truly the Saviour of the world.

In Tone 8

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

Today we commemorate the Forefathers of Christ.
Sing with fervour a hymn of praise to Christ the Saviour
who exalted them among the nations.
He is the Lord who does wondrous deeds
because He is powerful and almighty.
From them He brought forth a royal sceptre,
the Immaculate Maiden of God and Virgin Mary.
From her, Christ our God came forth
to give life and eternal salvation for all.

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

O Lord and Master,
You rescued the three holy youths from the fire.
You saved Daniel from the mouths of the lions;
You blessed Abraham, Isaac Your servant, and Jacob his son.
You willed to be like one of us by choosing to be born from them
in order that You might save our Forefathers who had fallen.
By Your Cross and Resurrection You tore apart the bonds of death.
You raise up all those who for ages had been among the dead
and who bow to You, O Christ, the eternal King.

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

The three holy youths were refreshed by the Holy Spirit
when they walked in the fire as though in a cool place.
In them the Trinity and the Incarnation of Christ
were prefigured in a mystical manner.
By their wisdom and faith
they overcame the power of fire.
As for the just Daniel, he stopped the mouths of lions.
Through their intercession, we beseech You:
O Saviour and Lover of Mankind,
protect us from eternal fire
and make us worthy of Your heavenly Kingdom.

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

When the three holy youths stood in the flaming furnace
as if covered with dew,
they mystically prefigured Your coming from the Virgin,
giving light to us without being consumed.
And Daniel, the just and wondrous prophet,
clearly saw in a vision Your second divine coming.
He said: “I saw thrones set up and the Judge seated
and the river of fire flowing in His presence.”
Through their intercession
deliver us from this fire, O Lord.

In Tone 6, Glory…

O believers, let us give praise today
to all the fathers who lived before the Law:
Abraham who was beloved by God,
Isaac who was born according to the promise,
Jacob and the Twelve Patriarchs,
the very meek David and the favoured prophet Daniel.
Let us also glorify with them the three youths
who changed the fiery furnace into a place of refreshing dew.
Let us beg forgiveness of our sins from Christ our God
who is glorified in His Saints.

In Tone 5, Now…

A symbol of the undefiled Virgin and bride
was revealed in the Red Sea.
There, Moses divided the waters;
here, Gabriel is the messenger of the miracle.
There, the Israelites crossed the deep and their feet were not even wet;
here, the Virgin gives birth to Christ without human seed.
There, the sea remained uncrossed after the passing of Israel;
here, the immaculate remained incorrupt after giving birth to Emmanuel.
Therefore, O immortal God, who appeared in the flesh as true Man,
have mercy on us!

Aposticha

In Tone 5

O Christ our Saviour,
we lift up our voices to glorify You.
For, in Your love for mankind,
You became incarnate without leaving heaven;
You accepted the Cross and death;
You cast down the gates of Hades;
and on the third day You arose from the dead
for the salvation of our souls.

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

O Giver of Life,
streams of forgiveness, life, and salvation
poured forth from Your pierced side upon us all.
By accepting physical death, You granted us immortality;
by lying in the tomb, You freed us from Hades,
and as God, by rising from the dead,
You raised us with Yourself in glory.
Therefore, we cry out to You:
O Lover of mankind, glory to You!

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

O Lover of mankind,
Your crucifixion and descent into Hades are most wondrous.
For, as God, You thereby conquered the power of Hades,
and raised up in glory, with Yourself, those who were long imprisoned there.
You reopened Paradise and enabled them to enter.
Grant forgiveness of sins to us
who glorify Your Resurrection on the third day,
for You alone are all-merciful.

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

O Lover of mankind,
You accepted suffering in the flesh
and rose from the dead on the third day.
Therefore, heal the passions of our flesh,
raise us from our dreadful iniquities, and save us.

In Tone 3, Glory…

Come, O lovers of the feast,
let us sing a hymn of praise to the assembly of the Forefathers:
Adam, the father of mankind,
Enoch, Noah, Melchizedek, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Let us also honour those who came after the Law:
Moses, Aaron, Joshua, Samuel, and David;
together with Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel,
Daniel, and the twelve minor prophets;
likewise Elijah, Elisha, and all the others;
also Zechariah and the Baptist,
and all those who preached Christ, the Life and Resurrection of our race.

Now…

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

Troparia

In Tone 5
Let us, the faithful, acclaim and worship the Word* co-eternal with the Father and the Spirit,* and born of the Virgin for our salvation.* For He willed to be lifted up on the cross in the flesh,* to suffer death and to raise the dead,* by His glorious Resurrection.

In Tone 2, Glory… Now…
By faith you justified Your ancestors* and through them in advance you betrothed the Church taken from the nations.* The saints exult in glory;* from their seed comes the blessed fruit, the one who bore You without seed.* By their prayers, O Christ our God, have mercy on us.

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 5: Let us, the faithful, acclaim and worship the Word* co-eternal with the Father and the Spirit,* and born of the Virgin for our salvation.* For He willed to be lifted up on the cross in the flesh,* to suffer death and to raise the dead,* by His glorious Resurrection.

Troparion, Tone 2: By faith You justified Your ancestors* and through them in advance You betrothed the Church taken from the nations.* The saints exult in glory;* from their seed comes the blessed fruit, the one who bore You without seed.* By their prayers, O Christ our God, have mercy on us.

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

Kontakion, Tone 6: Armed by the Being that defies description,* you defied the man-made idol, O thrice blessed youth.* In the midst of the unbearable flames you stood and cried out to God:* “In Your mercy, O gracious One, hasten and come to our aid,”* for You can do whatever You will.

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
Blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers,* and praised and glorified is Your Name forever.
verse: For You are righteous in everything that You have done to us. (Daniel 3:26,27)

Epistle
Colossians 3:4-11

Alleluia, Tone 4
verse: Moses and Aaron are among His priests and Samuel among those who call upon His name.
verse: They called on the Lord and He heard them. (Psalm 98:6)

Gospel
Luke 14:16-24

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 (Psalm 32:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Tone 2, Glory…

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

Now…

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

Readings
(1) Genesis 28:10-17; (2) Ezekiel 43:27-44:4; (3) Proverbs 9:1-11

Litiya

In Tone 1

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

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

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

Glory… Now…

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

Aposticha

In Tone 5

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

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

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

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

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

In Tone 2, Glory… Now…

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

Troparia

In Tone 1
Rejoice, Virgin Mary, Mother of God, full of grace!* The Lord is with you.* Blessed are you among women,* and blessed is the fruit of your womb.* For you have given birth to Christ, the Deliverer and Saviour of our souls. (2)

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

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DIVINE LITURGY

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

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

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

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

Epistle
Galatians 4:22-31

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

Gospel
Luke 8:16-21

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

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

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Tone 6, Glory…

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

Now…

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

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

Aposticha

In Tone 5

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

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

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

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

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

In Tone 8, Glory…

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

Now…

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

Troparia

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

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

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DIVINE LITURGY

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

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

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

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

Epistle
Galatians 5:22-6:2

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

Gospel
Matthew 11:27-30

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

GREAT VESPERS

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

At Psalm 140

In Tone 4

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

We never cease to adore Your life-giving Cross, O Christ our God,
And we glorify Your resurrection on the third day.
For You, Almighty One, have thereby restored the corrupted nature of all
and reopened the way to heaven,
since You alone are gracious and You love mankind.

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

O Saviour, You have absolved the penalty of disobedience,
committed through the tree of Eden,
by willingly being nailed to the tree of the Cross.
As Almighty God, You descended into Hades
and broke asunder the bonds of death.
We, therefore, venerate Your resurrection from the dead,
and joyfully cry out to You:
Almighty Lord, glory to You!

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

O Lord, You have battered down the gates of Hades,
and by Your death You have dissolved the realm of death.
You have freed mankind from corruption,
bestowing life, incorruption, and Your great mercy upon the world.

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

Come, all you people,
let us sing the praises of our Saviour’s resurrection on the third day.
For we have, thereby, been delivered from the invincible bonds of Hades,
and we have received incorruption, together with eternal life.
Therefore, we cry out to You
after Your crucifixion, burial, and resurrection:
Save us by Your resurrection, for You love mankind.

In Tone 2

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

When Julianna saw the blessed martyr Barbara during her terrible trial
suffering from her many wounds,
her body painfully torn in many places,
she cried out with tears of compassion:
Word of God and Lover of mankind
grant this day that I may be her companion in martyrdom!

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

Saints Barbara and Julianna,
you are of those who alone have a true vocation for righteous living,
for you attacked the enemy and gravely wounded him!
Thus you are worthy of glorification by Christ God
for you trampled underfoot the destroying passions and their evil,
giving the means of healing to all the faithful!

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

Most pure martyr Barbara,
when you were sentenced to die you faced sweet death with joy!
You swiftly fulfilled the act of martyrdom slain by the hand of your most evil parent.
You were offered up as fruit to God!
Therefore with the wise virgins you truly rejoice
as you behold the light of Christ, your Bridegroom!

In Tone 8

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

What shall we call you, holy theologian John?
Another David, for your hymns are as the psalms for us?
You are the temple of the Spirit and the pipe of the Good Shepherd.
You sweeten our ears and gladden our minds.
You cause the ranks of the Church to rejoice!
Your teachings are a river of honey, flowing to the ends of the earth.
Pray that our souls may be saved!

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

What shall we call you, Father John, the messenger of God?
Shining star of the Holy Trinity?
You enlighten our eyes with delightful teaching.
You have entered into the cloud of divine knowledge
Like Moses you behold mysteries beyond words or speech.
You proclaim the music of His wisdom.
Pray that our souls may be saved!

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

What shall we call you, blessed one?
A shining lampstand? A faithful minister of divine mysteries?
A joyful star for the Church, enlightening those who dwell in darkness?
A well-tuned organ and sweet-sounding harp?
Pray that our souls may be saved!

In Tone 6, Glory…

You abandoned your home, your people and earthly riches.
You fled the hatred of an evil father, Barbara;
you were wedded to God in a bond of love,
therefore He took you to Himself rejoicing.
Pray that he may save our souls.

In Tone 4, 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.

Aposticha

In Tone 4

In being lifted upon the Cross, O Lord,
You abolished the curse which we had inherited from our ancestors.
By going down into Hades,
You freed from eternal captivity those imprisoned there,
and granted incorruption to the human race.
We, therefore, praise Your life-giving and redeeming resurrection.

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

By hanging on the Cross, O Almighty One,
You shook the whole creation to its foundations.
When You Yourself were laid in the grave,
You raised to life those who had been lying in the graves,
and You granted life and incorruption to mankind.
We, therefore, praise and glorify Your resurrection on the third day.

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

O Christ, the lawless people showed their ingratitude to You, their Benefactor,
by delivering You to Pilate who condemned you to be crucified.
But You willingly suffered death and burial;
and, as God, You rose by Your own power on the third day,
granting us everlasting life and great mercy.

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

The women, shedding bitter tears, came to see You in Your tomb;
and not finding Your body, they lamented, saying:
O Saviour and King of All, how were You stolen?
What place holds Your life-bearing body?
An angel answered them, saying:
Do not weep, but go and proclaim that the Lord is risen,
filling our hearts with joy;
for He alone is most compassionate.

In Tone 6, Glory…

The sound of your teachings has gone out into all the earth, venerable father John!
Therefore you have found the reward of your labours in the heavens.
You destroyed the hosts of demons and reached the ranks of angels
whose life you blamelessly followed!
Since you have boldness before Christ our God,
entreat peace for our souls!

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 4
When the disciples of the Lord learned from the angel* the glorious news of the resurrection* and cast off the ancestral condemnation,* they proudly told the apostles:* “Death has been plundered!* Christ our God is risen,*granting to the world great mercy.”

In Tone 8
Let us honour the holy martyr Barbara,* for as a bird she escaped the snares of the enemy,** and destroyed them through the help and defense of the cross!

In Tone 8, Glory…
Champion of orthodoxy, teacher of purity and of true worship,* the enlightener of the universe and the adornment of the hierarchs:* all-wise father John, your teachings have gleamed with light upon all things.** Intercede before Christ our God to save our souls!

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

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 4: When the disciples of the Lord learned from the angel* the glorious news of the resurrection* and cast off the ancestral condemnation,* they proudly told the apostles:* “Death has been plundered!* Christ our God is risen,* granting to the world great mercy.”

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

Kontakion, Tone 4: My Saviour and Deliverer from the grave* as God raised out of bondage the children of the earth* and shattered the gates of Hades;* and as Master, He rose on the third day.

Now and for ever and ever. Amen.

Theotokion, Tone 4: By your birth, O immaculate one,* Joachim and Anna were freed from the reproach of childlessness,* and Adam and Eve* from the corruption of death.* And your people, redeemed from the guilt of their sins,* celebrate as they cry out to you:* “The barren one gives birth to the Mother of God* and nourisher of our life.”

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
How great are Your works, O Lord* You have made all things in wisdom.
verse: Bless the Lord, O my soul: O Lord my God, You are exceedingly great. (Psalm 103:24,1)

Epistle
Colossians 1:12-18

Alleluia, Tone 4
verse: Poise yourself and advance in triumph and reign in the cause of truth, and meekness, and justice.
verse: You have loved justice and hated iniquity. (Psalm 44:5,8)

Gospel
Luke 17:12-19

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

GREAT VESPERS

Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man” is sung.

At Psalm 140

In Tone 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glory…

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

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

Aposticha

In Tone 5

Rejoice, O heaven!
Proclaim everywhere the glory of God!
Today the first-called apostle stands in our midst.
He was the first to obey the Lord with fervour!
United to Him, he was enkindled by His love.
He is the reflection of the Saviour’s love for mankind,
for his rays enlighten those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death!
We rejoice in his holy memory,
for through his prayers health and blessing are given to us!

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

Rejoice, Andrew, the first-called apostle!
You are the imitator of the passion of Christ.
With the cross as your hook you drew us up from the sea of ignorance,
offering us to the Lord of glory.
Therefore we the faithful, delivered from evil, cry out to God:
merciful Lord, through the prayers of Your apostle,
grant peace to our lives and salvation to our souls!

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

Your preaching gives light to godless nations,
glorious vessel of the ruler of the sea!
Your wisdom calms the stormy waves.
You are the salt of the earth, seasoning us with incorruption,
silencing the ravings of clever orators!
By his prayers, deliver us from the proud ones of the earth, O Lord,
grant purity to our hearts and salvation to our souls.

In Tone 3, Glory…

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

Now…

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

Troparia

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

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

 

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FESTAL MATINS

Hexapsalm

Great Ekteny

The Lord is God, Tone 4

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

Glory… Now…

The mystery hidden from eternity and unknown to the angels* is manifested to those on earth through you, O Theotokos!* God being incarnate of you by union without confusion,* and of His own will freely enduring the cross for us,* and raising the first-formed man,* has saved our souls from death!

Kathisma & Little Ekteny

Sessional Hymn I, Tone 1
As a godly Disciple and First-called of all the Disciples of Christ,* with love we praise you, Apostle Andrew,* and faithfully we cry out to you:* Deliver your flock, with which you were entrusted by God,* from every tribulation, from constraints and stumblings, and every evil.

Glory…
As a godly Disciple and First-called of all the Disciples of Christ,* with love we praise you, Apostle Andrew,* and faithfully we cry out to you:* Deliver your flock, with which you were entrusted by God,* from every tribulation, from constraints and stumblings, and every evil.

Now…
As you now stretch out your hands in pity, holy Lady,* grant us your help from the Holy Place,* and may they complete their lives without danger,* those who glorify your all-holy Offspring,* and claim you, Lady and Maiden,* as their hope and boast.

Kathisma & Little Ekteny

Sessional Hymn II, Tone 3
Christ found you first, blest Andrew, as you came, a noble initiate,* and one who proclaimed his commandments clearly to the inhabited world like a soaring bird,* illumining the companies of the nations.* Implore him as God to grant us his great mercy.

Glory…
Christ found you first, blest Andrew, as you came, a noble initiate,* and one who proclaimed his commandments clearly to the inhabited world like a soaring bird,* illumining the companies of the nations.* Implore him as God to grant us his great mercy.

Now…
You became the divine tabernacle of the Word, Mother of God alone all-pure,* surpassing the Angels in purity.* With the divine waters of your prayers purify me,* who am befouled more than all by offences of the flesh,* granting me God’s great mercy.

Polyeleos

Exaltation
We extol you,* O first-called Apostle, Andrew,* and we venerate the pain and labour of your work* to spread the Gospel of Christ!

verses:
From the rising of the sun to its setting the Name of the Lord is to be praised!
Glory…Now…
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to You, O God! (3 times)

Sidalen, Tone 5
Let us all sing the praise of the Apostle as eye-witness and godlike herald of the Word,* and truly spiritual fisher of nations;* because Andrew inspired of God brought us to knowledge of Christ,* and now he intercedes without ceasing that our souls may be saved.

Glory… Now…

Immaculate Virgin, you are the protection of those who have their hopes unquestioningly in you.* Free us from trials of every kind, calamities and dire troubles,* as with the Apostles you intercede with your Son,* and save all who sing your praise.

Gradual Hymn
Tone 4, Antiphon 1

Prokeimenon, Tone 4
His sound has gone out into all the earth; and his words to the end of the world.
verse: The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims the work of his hands.

Let Everything That Has Breath, Tone 4

Gospel
Matthew 4: 18-24

After Psalm 50
In Tone 6, Glory…
Through the prayers of the apostle Andrew, O merciful One, blot out the multitude of our transgressions!

Now…
Through the intercession of the Mother of God, O Merciful One, remit our many sins..

In Tone 1, Have mercy on me, God, in your kindness. In your compassion, blot out my offense.
The First-called Disciple and imitator of your passion,* the Apostle Andrew, conformed to you, O Lord,* having drawn out with the fish-hook of your Cross* those once gone astray in the deep of ignorance, brought them to you.* At his prayers, O supremely Good, make our lives peaceful and save our souls.

Canon

ODE 1

Irmos Guiding Israel with a pillar of fire and of cloud, as God He divided the sea and overwhelmed the chariots of Pharaoh in the deep! Let us sing a hymn of victory, for He alone is glorified!

Refrain: Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us!

You fished with the rod of the Gospel, all-praised Andrew, drawing men out from the sea of falsehood, as Christ promised. He taught you to seek men instead of fish!

The divinely inspired Andrew, the pillar of the faith and seat of the true teachings of Christ, today summons all the ends of the earth to celebrate his yearly festival. Faithful, let us quickly gather!

You pursued the seamonster with nets; with the skill of a fisherman you fish for nations tribes and peoples with the net of the Spirit! You openly and plainly show us through that same Spirit, great heights and depths, most wondrous one!

You solemnized the mysteries of heaven and were an eyewitness and preacher of the ineffable knowledge of Christ. You received the Holy Spirit from on high who teaches and dwells among the nations distributing gifts with fire. Pray, Andrew, that we may be saved.

Glory…

I worship in faith the supernatural unity of the all-unoriginate Trinity, not dividing the divinity. For it is of a single substance, simple and indivisible. I unite it by essence and distinguish by faith the three Persons.

Now…

God is born to the Virgin as an infant and He renews that which through Adam, had become corrupt. He breaks down the dividing wall and chamber of enmity with His flesh. Coming forth from His all-pure Mother, He abolishes the curse of eve.

Katavasia Christ is born, glorify Him; Christ is from heaven, receive Him! Christ is on earth, be lifted up. Sing to the Lord all the earth and praise Him with joy all people, for He has been glorified!

 

ODE 3

Irmos May my heart be made steadfast in your will, O Christ God, who established the second heaven upon the deeps and founded the earth upon the waters, almighty one!

Refrain: Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us!

Cephas and Andrew immediately followed Christ, who called them, saying: come, follow me! They left their father, their boat and their nets, for they were given a vision of the faith.

Transforming pagan temples into churches, most honoured one, you sanctified there the sons of baptism whom grace had renewed through water and the spirit.

You mystically set before the world the pearl of great price which was hidden within the field of your heart, apostle. The gentiles found it and treasured it with faith!

Taking up the gospel in your hands as a treasure, greatly praised one, you enriched all the earth with your divine preaching. Therefore, it honors your memory and your sufferings.

Glory…

Let us all sing hymns in an orthodox manner to the one power of the unoriginate, uncreated God, in Trinity, consubstantial and equally enthroned, three in persons and in lights!

Now…

Every mother that bears a child can no longer be a virgin, but you, Virgin Mother, remained so, after giving birth to Christ, nourishing our life with milk and remaining pure!

Katavasia To the Son, begotten of the Father, before all ages and incarnate of the Virgin without seed in these latter days – let us cry out to Christ our God: you have raised our horn; holy are you, O Lord!

 

LITTLE EKTENY

SESSIONAL HYMN
(Tone 8) We fittingly honour you, apostle Andrew, as the first-called of all the disciples;* an eyewitness and minister of the Word.* You followed the Lamb that takes away the sins of the world with fervor and unwavering faith!* You later showed yourself to be a sharer in the sufferings of Him who willingly endured death for our sake.* Therefore we cry to you: pray to Christ our God, that He may grant remission of sins to those who celebrate your holy memory with love!

Glory…

Destroying the boldness of the idols and yearning for the sufferings of Christ,* you revealed yourself to be an apostle, blessed one,* raining down wonders from heaven and teaching the nations, most blessed one!* Therefore, fittingly honouring your memory in hymns,* we glorify and magnify you, apostle of the Lord, in faith.* Pray to Christ God that He may grant remission of sins to those who celebrate your holy memory with love!

Now…

Rejoice, fiery throne of God! Rejoice, O Maiden!* The royal seat and richly provided couch, the chamber hung with gold-embroidered purple,* the cloak of scarlet, adorned temple and light-bearing chariot!* Rejoice, most radiant candlestick, the twelve-walled city, the gate cast of God,* the radiant bridal chamber, magnificent banquet hall and divinely adorned tabernacle!* Rejoice, glorious bride, radiant as the sun!* Rejoice, the only splendour of my soul!

 

ODE 4

Irmos Habbakuk the prophet, you foresaw in spirit the incarnation of the Word and you prophesied, crying out: when the years draw near, you shall be acknowledged! When the season comes, you shall be revealed! Glory to Your power, O Lord!

Refrain: Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us!

You cast aside your nets and took up the cross; you followed after Christ who called you. Stretching out the net of the Spirit, you caught men instead of fish. Glory to Him who gave you the Spirit!

You received the fiery tongue of the Spirit and became a man well-pleasing to God, apostle. You traversed the glories of the heavens recognizing their spiritual beauty and revealing it to us.

You watered the parched desert with your divine words and showed it to be fertile, O wise one, bearing fruit, the children of the church, through the spreading of the seed. Glory to Him who gave you the Sspirit!

Perceiving your ineffable goodness, O Jesus, Andrew summoned his kinsman, saying to Peter: my blood kinsman, we have found the Messiah who was proclaimed in the Law and the Prophets! Come, let us truly join ourselves to life!

Glory…

Faithful, let us hymn the Trinity in unity, the Father, Son and Divine Spirit, one in divinity, essence and nature, indivisible, inseparable and undivided, for He is one God in three Persons.

Now…

You ineffably conceived one of the Trinity in your womb; you gave birth to Him without corruption as a Son, yet the Trinity was never added to in time! As you were pure before you gave birth, you were kept whole, O Mother of God!

Katavasia Rod of the stem of Jesse and flower that budded from a Virgin, O most lauded Christ! From the mountain covered with darkness You have come, made flesh from her that knew no wedlock. O God not formed from matter, glory to Your might, O Lord!

 

ODE 5

Irmos Enlighten our minds with the light of Your commandments and with the splendour of Your grace, O God. Grant us Your mercy, for Your precepts are light and peace, O Good One!

Refrain: Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us!

You yearned for the cross, disciple of Christ, and through your cross you obtained the incorruptible kingdom into which you draw all the initiates of God with the cross. As we proclaim God’s own words about the cross, you grant an inheritance to us!

You truly sought for Christ our life, and having searched, you were the first to find Him. Having found Him, you mystically embraced Him! You received incorruptible life from the giver becoming a treasury of this life.

The proclamation of your divine thunder went out and encompassed all the ends of the earth! As David said, your lightning has appeared to all the world.

Remember us, disciple of Christ, as we celebrate your memory and venerate your relics. Ever pray with fervour on behalf of the flock which you have preserved and saved from the beginning!

Glory…

Faithful, let us together glorify God: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, the indivisible Trinity, the tri-personal Kingdom, glorifying Him in faith with eternal theology.

Now…

You gave birth to the Light beyond understanding; you bear the Lamp of the Light of the Sun! You were a new tabernacle of divine Light, sending rays of divine knowledge out to all the world.

Katavasia God of peace and Father of mercies, You have sent us the angel of great council who grants us peace. So we are guided to the light of the knowledge of God. Waking early from the night, we praise You, O Lover of mankind!

 

ODE 6

Irmos I reflect the prophet Jonah and I cry out: free me, Good One, from corruption! Saviour of the world, save me as I cry out: glory to You, O God!

Refrain: Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us!

The one who was called from Bethsaida summons us to keep the feast! He sets before us in splendour the commemoration of his struggles.

By trade a fisherman, by faith a disciple, he plumbed the depths of the heart of the faithful. He lowers the hook of the word and catches us!

Spreading the fire of the love of Christ within your heart, you went out to the gentiles, disciple. Your flame burns for Christ, who has truly appeared!

You seasoned your mind with the salt of Christ; your wages have sweetened the heavenly teachings bringing us unfading delight.

Glory…

Faithful, let us worship the Father, Son and true Spirit, the tri-personal, indivisible Essence. Let us cry out: glory to God in Trinity!

Now…

The Son was incarnate in your womb, O Pure One, by the good pleasure of the Father and through the Holy Spirit. He openly saved mankind that had been created in his image.

Katavasia The seamonster cast out Jonah unharmed as it had received him, like a babe from the womb. And when the Word came to dwell in the Virgin and was made flesh, He came forth preserving her incorrupt, for He Himself was not subject to decay and He kept His mother free from harm!

 

KONTAKION
(Tone 2) Let us praise for his courage the divinely inspired Andrew,* the first apostle of the Saviour and brother of Peter,* for as he drew his brother to Christ, he is crying out to us:* come, for we have found the One whom the world desires!

IKOS
In days of old, David, a sinner like myself, was compelled to declare the maxims of God with honour. And again, He teaches and proclaims with many tears: today, if you will hear His voice, harden not your hearts as Israel was once embittered. And He leads all in psalmody: sing hymns to the Lord, all lands! Come, for we have found the One whom the world desires!

 

ODE 7

We the faithful perceive you to be a spiritual furnace, O Theotokos, for as the highly exalted one saved the three children, the praised and most glorified God of our fathers has wholly renewed the world in your womb!

Refrain: Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us!

The fire of the Holy Spirit, descending from on high, commanded you, apostle of Christ, to proclaim His mighty works in new languages which you had never spoken before to the ends of the earth!

Initiates of the mysteries of Christ and beholders of exalted things, as the Twelve, you have enlightened the darkness of the earth, astonishing the minds of all by the proclamation you trumpeted out to all the world!

Wondrous was your grace, O Master Christ, in Your divinely wise disciples. As simple and humble men, they travelled through all the ends of the earth!

Who taught you to speak as you do, apostle? Who enlightened your mind to behold clearly the radiance of unapproachable glory which shines the light of truth into our hearts?

Glory…

Faithful, let us sing hymns to the Trinity, glorifying the unoriginate Father, the Son and the righteous Spirit: the single Essence! Let us chant: holy, holy, holy are You forever!

Now…

We glorify you, O Christ, as one of the Trinity, for without change, You were incarnate of the Virgin. Jesus, You bore all things as a man, united to us, without departing from the essence of the Father!

Katavasia The children brought up together in godliness, despising the unrighteous command, were not afraid of the threat of fire, but standing in the midst of the flames they sang: blessed are you, O God of our fathers!

 

ODE 8

Irmos God who preserved the bush which burnt on Sinai unconsumed and delivered the youths in the midst of the burning flame: let us hymn, bless and highly exalt You forever!

Refrain: Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us!

You drew fish from the sea, most wise one, by the craft of fishing. Now by faith, you draw men to Christ from the deception of the enemy! For deception is an abyss drowning the nations in a storm of impiety.

You sailed the spiritual sea of life by faith in Christ and were not capsized, O apostle. You were propelled by the sail of the spirit and rejoicing, you have reached the eternal harbour of life!

After the spiritual Sun set of His own will upon the tree, the great Andrew, the lamp of the Church and beacon of the Sun, sought to end his own life with Christ and set in Him. He, too, was hung upon the wood of a cross.

Disciple and beloved friend of Christ and one of his apostles: when the Judge sits upon His throne with you, His Twelve, to give judgment as He has promised, be a fortress for us of love for mankind.

Let us bless the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, the Lord!

Let us glorify the three-fold radiance of Unity, the equally enthroned Trinity. Let us not separate It, but unite it consubstantially, as one Essence, united in three Persons without confusion!

Now…

Pure One, you conceived and gave birth to one of the Trinity, who, incarnate of you, renews the laws of nature by your childbearing! Theotokos, never cease to pray to Him as God on our behalf.

We praise, bless and worship the Lord, singing and exalting Him throughout all ages!

Katavasia The furnace moist with dew was the image of a wonder beyond nature, for it did not burn the children whom it had received! Just as the fire of divinity did not consume the Virgin’s womb when it entered there. So, let us raise the song: let the whole creation bless the Lord and exalt Him above all forever!

MAGNIFICAT

ODE 9

Irmos Let us all magnify the radiant cloud upon whom the unoriginate Master of all descended like dew on the fleece, the pure Mother of God from whom He was incarnate, becoming man for our sake!

Refrain: Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us!

You spread out the net of the mystical knowledge of God. You caught fish with the beauties of heavenly thoughts! Entreat the holy Trinity, holy one, to pour out a cleansing stream on us.

The nations who are enlightened by you and led up from earth to heaven, give thanks to you, for wrested from the service of the enemy, they have become companions of the holy angels and partakers of the glory of the Lord!

Apostles and witnesses of ineffable things and ministers of the Word, performers of the mysteries and beholders of hidden things, pray that we may become heirs of the kingdom of Christ and partakers of His divinity.

You received the power from Christ to bind and loose: free us all from the bonds of our many transgressions when Christ shall come and you Twelve will be seated upon thrones to judge all the tribes of Israel!

Glory…

We unceasingly glorify in heaven and on earth the incomprehensible Trinity: the tri-personal Essence, the indivisible Glory hymned in one divinity. With devotion, we worship the Father, Son and Holy Spirit!

Now…

We run with faith to your loving kindness, worshiping your son with devotion, Virgin Theotokos! Entreat Him as the God and Lord of the world, that He may deliver us from corruption, misfortune and all temptation.

Katavasia I behold a strange, most glorious mystery! Heaven — the cave! The cherubic throne — the Virgin! The manger — the place where Christ lay, the uncontainable God whom we magnify in song!

 

Hymn Of Light, Tone 3
The Word without beginning having found you, O all-blessed,* declared you the First-called of all the Apostles, revered Andrew;* and following in his footsteps you were revealed as guide of those who had gone astray,* bringing up the divine path to heaven.

Glory…

Let us give glorious praise to Peter’s brother, the first-called of the Disciples,* who became an eye-witness and servant of the Word, the Apostle Andrew;* for he enlightened the nations, and was crucified, dying like a Disciple of the Master.

Now…

All-blameless Virgin, implore God, to whom you gave birth,* for all who devoutly honour you, with the glorious Apostle,* to obtain the divine radiance of your Son* and the place of the elect and of the Saints;* for you have strength to do whatever you wish.

 

At The Praises, Tone 1
Bethsaida now be glad;* for in you there flowered from a mystic pool two sweet scented lilies, Peter and Andrew,* who spread the fragrant proclamation of the faith to the whole world by the grace of Christ,* whose sufferings too they imitated.

Andrew rejoice and leap for joy,* because in the radiance of the Word you clearly received the Sun of glory, Christ the giver of life,* whom you held fast and by the faith proclaimed;* implore him without ceasing on behalf of us* who sing your praise with faith.

Chosen initiate of the divine dispensation of Christ,* chosen first of all to be a disciple of the Word,* Andrew who saw God cried out and said, when he saw his brother Peter,* ‘We have found the Messiah* whom the Scripture and Prophets proclaimed of old’.

The city of Patras has gained you as Shepherd and divine defender,* deliverer from dangers of every kind and guardian, wise Andrew,* as with thanksgiving it honours you.* But implore without ceasing that it may be preserved unharmed.

In Tone 8, Glory…
Let us all sing the praise of Andrew, the herald of the faith and servant of the Word;* for he fishes men from the deep,* grasping in his hands the Cross for a rod,* and lowering power like a line he brings souls up from the error of the foe* and offers them as an acceptable gift to God.* Let us the faithful ever sing his praise with the choir of Christ’s Disciples,* that he may intercede with him so that he may be merciful to us* on the day of judgement.

Now…
Bethlehem receive the Mother City of God;* for she has come to give birth in you to the unwaning Light.* You Angels, marvel in heaven; mankind give glory upon earth,* Magi from Persia bring your triple glorious gift,* Shepherds abiding in the fields sing the thrice-holy hymn.* Let everything that has breath praise the Maker of all.

Troparion

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

 

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DIVINE LITURGY

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

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

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

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

Epistle
1 Corinthians 4:9-16

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

Gospel
John 1:35-51

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