Event Information:
-
Sun29Dec2024
Sunday after the Nativity of Christ. Octoechos Tone 7. Commemoration of the Holy and Righteous Joseph the Betrothed, David the King, and James, Brother of the Lord. The Holy Children who killed for Christ in Bethlehem; Our Venerable Father Marcellus, Hegumen of the Monastery of the Sleepless Ones.
GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING
Kathisma Reading
Blessed is the man... is sung.
At Psalm 140
Tone 7
Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name.
Come, let us rejoice in the Lord,* who destroyed the power of death* and enlightened the human race;* and let us cry out with the angels:* Glory to You, our Creator and Saviour!
The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me.
O Saviour, for our sake You suffered crucifixion and burial;* and, as God, You destroyed death by Your death.* Therefore, we adore Your resurrection on the third day* and we sing: Glory to You, O Lord!
Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!
On seeing the resurrection of the Creator,* the apostles were amazed,* and they sang an angelic hymn of praise:* This is the glory of the Church,* this is the richness of the Kingdom!* O Lord, who suffered for our sake, glory to You!
Tone 2
Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.
Come, let us greatly rejoice in the Lord* as we tell of this present mystery.* The middle wall of partition has been destroyed;* 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 express Image of the Father, the Imprint of His eternity,* takes the form of a servant,* and without undergoing change He came 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.* Unto Him let us cry aloud:* God born of a Virgin, have mercy on us.
If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.
When the Lord Jesus was born of the holy Virgin,* all the world was enlightened.* The shepherds watched in the fields,* the Magi adored and the angels praised in song;* but Herod was troubled:* for God has appeared in the flesh,* the Saviour of our souls.
I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted 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 made the whole creation shine with joy.* All that has breath praises You, the Image of the glory of the Father.* O God who are, and who have ever been,* who have shone forth from a Virgin,* have mercy on us.
From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.
What shall we offer You, O Christ,* who for our sakes has appeared on the earth as man?* Every creature made by You offers You thanks.* 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.
Tone 1
For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.
Let us praise David the King, the ancestor of God,* because from him came forth the branch who is the Virgin.* From her bloomed the Flower, Christ,* Who summoned Adam and Eve from corruption.* He is compassionate towards all.
Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.
In his advanced years,* Joseph clearly saw the prophecies fulfilled.* It was truly a strange betrothal;* and he received a revelation from the angels who cried out:* Glory to God Who sent down peace upon the world.
Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.
Let all of us praise the relative of the Lord, James the Apostle,* who bravely suffered martyrdom as a bishop.* By his prayers, O Christ our God,* Who was wrapped in swaddling clothes in the cave,* save all those who extol You.
Tone 6, Glory…
We are commemorating the noble David and James:* the king and prophet, the apostle and first bishop;* because by their teachings we have been delivered from error.* Let us sing the praises of Christ* Who came forth from the Virgin* and became incarnate to save our souls.
Tone 7, Now...
Immaculate Mother of God,* you became a mother outside the laws of nature,* remaining a virgin in a way that exceeds all description* and human understanding.* The wonder of your birth-giving could not be told in human language,* for your conception of Christ blinded intelligence,* and your birth-giving exceeded understanding:* for whenever God so desires, the laws of nature are broken.* Wherefore, we all firmly believe that you are the Mother of God,* and we eagerly beseech you to intercede for the salvation of our souls.
Prokeimenon, Tone 6
The Lord reigns,* He is clothed in majesty.
verse: Robed is the Lord and girt about with strength.
verse: For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved.
verse: Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days.
Aposticha
Tone 7
O Saviour of the world, You arose from the grave,* and together with Your own flesh You raised up mankind.* O Lord, glory to You!
The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength.
Come, let us worship Christ who arose from the dead* and enlightened all creation.* For by His resurrection on the third day,* He set us free from the oppression of Hades,* granting us life and His great mercy.
For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved.
O Christ, Lover of mankind,* You descended into Hades and destroyed death.* Then You arose on the third day;* and, together with Yourself You lifted up all of us* who glorify Your mighty resurrection.
Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days.
O Lord, what a fearful sight it was to see You lying in the tomb as if asleep.* Yet on the third day You arose in great power,* and at the same time You raised up Adam who joyfully cried out:* Glory to Your resurrection, O Lover of mankind!
Tone 6, Glory…
The remembrance of Your Nativity* brings happiness to priests and might to kings.* Let us also boast of it and say:* Our Father, Who art in heaven,* hallowed be Thy Name, O Lover of mankind.
Now…
Today the invisible nature is united with our visible nature through the Virgin.* Today the infinite Essence is wrapped in swaddling clothes in Bethlehem.* Today God is guiding the Magi by a star* so that they might worship Him.* With the gold, frankincense, and myrrh,* He is foretelling His three-day burial.* Let us cry out to Him:* Having become incarnate from the Virgin,* save our souls, O Christ God.
Troparia
Tone 7
By Your cross You destroyed death;* You opened Paradise to the thief;* You changed the lamentation of the myrrh-bearers to joy,* and charged the apostles to proclaim* that You are risen, O Christ our God,* offering great mercy to the world.
Tone 2, Glory…
O Joseph, announce to David, the ancestor of God, the news of the miracle:* You saw a virgin giving birth.* With the shepherds, you gave praise and with the Magi you worshipped;* they too were warned by an angel.** Pray to Christ our God to save our souls.
Tone 4, Now…
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 You, the Dawn from on high.* Glory to You, O Lord.
GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING
Usual Beginning
Hexapsalm
Great Litany
God the Lord, Tone 7
Troparia, Tone 7
By Your cross You destroyed death;* You opened Paradise to the thief;* You changed the lamentation of the myrrh-bearers to joy,* and charged the apostles to proclaim* that You are risen, O Christ our God,* offering great mercy to the world. (2)
Tone 2, Glory…
O Joseph, announce to David, the ancestor of God, the news of the miracle:* You saw a virgin giving birth.* With the shepherds, you gave praise and with the Magi you worshipped;* they too were warned by an angel.** Pray to Christ our God to save our souls.
Tone 4, Now…
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 You, the Dawn from on high.* Glory to You, O Lord.
Psalter Reading
Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10
Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13
Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16Small Litany
Sessional Hymn I, Tone 7
When Life was laying in the tomb* and a seal laid upon the stone,* the soldiers guarded Christ as a sleeping King* and the Angels glorified Him as immortal God;* while the women cried aloud:* The Lord is risen, granting the world great mercy.
Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end.
By Your burial for three days You despoiled death,* and by Your life-bearing Arising* You raised corrupted mankind, O Christ Lord,* as the Lover of mankind. Glory be to You!
Glory… Now…
O Virgin Theotokos unceasingly entreat Christ our God,* who was crucified for us* and arose again destroying the dominion of death,* that He save our souls.
Psalter Reading
Stasis I: Psalm 17
Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20
Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23Small Litany
Sessional Hymn II, Tone 7
While the grave was sealed, O Christ God,* You, the Life, shone forth from the tomb;* and while the doors were shut, You, the Resurrection of all,* appeared to Your Disciples,* and through them renewed a right Spirit within us,* according to Your great mercy.
I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders.
Bringing sweet spices with their tears, the women ran to the tomb,* and while the soldiers guarded You, the King of all,* they spoke one to another:* Who will roll away the stone for us?* The Angel of great Counsel has risen, trampling down death.* O All-powerful Lord, glory be to You!
Glory… Now…
Rejoice Virgin Theotokos, full of grace,* haven and protection of the race of mankind,* for from you the Redeemer of the world has taken flesh,* for you alone are a Mother and Virgin,* ever blessed and exceedingly glorified;* intercede with Christ God to grant peace to all the world.
Polyeleos
Evlogitaria
Small Litany
Hypakoe, Tone 7
O Christ God, who took upon Yourself our form* and endured the Cross in the body,* save me by Your Resurrection,* as You alone love mankind.
Hymn of Ascent, Tone 7
Antiphon 1
Having turned back the captivity of Sion from error,* quicken me also O Saviour,* and deliver me from slavery to the passions.
He who sows tribulations in the south with tears of fasting,* will reap with joy the sheaves of nourishment* of eternal life.
Glory… Now…
In the Holy Spirit is the source of divine treasures,* from Him comes wisdom, intelligence, and fear;* and to Him belongs* praise, glory, honour and worship.
Antiphon 2
Unless the Lord builds the house of the soul,* in vain do we labour;* for without Him no deed or word can be perfected.
Of the fruit of the womb the Saints,* moved by the Spirit,* sprout forth the Father’s teachings of filial adoption.
Glory… Now…
By the Holy Spirit all things have their being;* in the presence of all He is God,* the sovereign of the universe,* Light unapproachable, Life of all.
Antiphon 3
Those who fear the Lord and find the ways of life,* now and always are blessed* with immortal glory.
As you behold your offspring like shoots around your table,* rejoice, and be glad, bringing them to Christ* the Chief Shepherd of all.
Glory… Now…
In the Holy Spirit there be an abundance of grace,* riches of glory and a great depth of judgments;* for He is to be served as identical in glory and honour* with the Father and the Son.
Prokeimenon, Tone 7
Arise then, Lord,* lift up Your hand.* O God, do not forget the poor!
verse: I will praise You, Lord, with all my heart; I will recount all Your wonders.
Let everything that lives, Tone 7
Gospel
John 21:1-14
Hymn of Resurrection
Psalm 50
Verses at Psalm 50
Canon, Tone 7
Ode 1
Irmos: At a sign from you, O Lord, the nature of water was changed,* once free and flowing now it became as a wall, hard as the earth;* thus Israel walked dryshod* and sang you a song of victory.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
When you were condemned to an unjust death, O Lord, then the tyranny of death was judged by a tree; the prince of darkness could not prevail against you and was justly cast out.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
Hell approached you with teeth which lacked the strength to crush your body and broke his jaws. Thus, O Saviour, you loosed the pains of death and on the third day rose again.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
The pains of Eve, first mother, are undone, for your child-bearing was without pain, without knowledge of man. Therefore, All-pure, clearly seeing you to be the Mother of God, we give you glory.
Irmos: I shall sing to You, O Lord my God, for You lead Your people forth from the bondage of Egypt* and overwhelmed the chariots of Pharaoh and his might.
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
As many as celebrate the natal festivities of Him that became incarnate for our sake, let us hymn with joy James, the brother of God, and David, the forefather of God.
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
The choirs of angels stood before Joseph in Bethlehem, saying: Glory to God in the highest! With them let us hymn Him Whose good pleasure it was to become incarnate.
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
O David, forefather of God, calling the righteous James, with harps hymn the Lord, Who is incarnate of the root of Jesse.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
To You shall I sing, O Lord my God, for You were born of the holy Virgin Mother and have shown her to be the hope of our souls.
Irmos: Christ is born; let us glorify Him.* Christ comes down from heaven; let us go out to meet Him.* Christ lives on earth; let us exalt in joy.* All you faithful, sing to the Lord, for He has been glorified.
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
Although created in the image of God, mankind fell from the divine and higher life, and through transgression became entirely subject to corruption and decay. But now the all-good Creator fashions human nature anew; for this reason, we glorify Him.
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
When the Creator saw the one whom He had created with his own hands perishing, He lowered the heavens and came down; He took upon Himself human nature from the most holy and pure Virgin, truly becoming flesh; for this reason we glorify Him.
Glory… Now…
Christ our God is the Son and the Brightness of the Father; He is Wisdom, Word, and Power. And unknown to the heavenly hosts and those upon the earth, He became man and has won us back again; for this reason, we glorify Him.
Katavasia: Christ is born; let us glorify Him.* Christ comes down from heaven; let us go out to meet Him.* Christ lives on earth; let us exalt in joy.* All you faithful, sing to the Lord, for He has been glorified.
Ode 3
Irmos: Lord and Saviour, who in the beginning* established the heavens and every power of them,* by your almighty Word and the divine and all-effecting Spirit:* establish me firmly on the immovable rock of confession of you.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
Of your own will for our sake ascending the cross to suffer the pain, O Saviour compassionate, you bear the stripes which are the cause of salvation and peace for all believers. Through it, O Merciful, we are all reconciled to your Father.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
You cleansed me, wounded in soul by the serpent’s bite, O Christ, and showed me light when long ago I lay in darkness and corruption. For, by your cross, you came down into Hell and raised me up with yourself.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
By the prayers of your Mother who knew no man, O Saviour, grant peace to your world, give victory over his enemies to the king; and make those who praise you worthy of your ineffable glory.
Irmos: O Christ God, confirmation of them that hope on You,* make us steadfast in Your orthodox faith, for You are the Lover of mankind.
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
With the angels let us all hymn Christ God, Who, without seed, has been born in the flesh of the Virgin, crying aloud: Glory to God in the highest!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
O you faithful, with David and James let us honour with hymns, as is meet, the most jubilant feast of Him that emptied Himself for our sake.
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Like a bridegroom from a bridal chamber will the Lord come forth from His Mother’s womb! Thus said David, whom, with James, let us now hymn.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
Let us honour Mary, the Theotokos unwedded, for the Sun of righteousness has shone forth upon us for her sake.
Irmos: To Christ our God,* who is the only-begotten Son of the Father from before all ages,* and in these latter times* has become flesh of the Virgin without seed,* let us cry aloud:* You are our strength; glory to You, O Lord!
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
Although Adam was formed from the clay of the earth, he shared in God’s life; yet through the tempting of a woman, he sunk and fell into corruption. But now when he sees Christ born of a woman, he cries aloud: For my sake, You have become as I am; glory to You, O Lord!
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
You made Yourself, O Christ, a creature in the form of clay, and even took on our flesh, thereby making us partakers in Your divine nature. You have become a mortal, yet still remain God. You are our strength; glory to You, O Lord!
Glory… Now…
Rejoice, O Bethlehem, for you are the Queen among the princes of Judah; because from you comes forth, in the sight of all, Christ himself, the Shepherd who watches over Israel, and He that is seated upon the Cherubim. He is our strength and reigns over all.
Katavasia: To Christ our God,* who is the only-begotten Son of the Father from before all ages,* and in these latter times* has become flesh of the Virgin without seed,* let us cry aloud:* You are our strength; glory to You, O Lord!
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.
Ikos
Bethlehem has opened up Eden for us. Come and let us see the delights that we have found there in secret. Come and let us gather the fruits of Paradise that are within the cave. There, the unwatered Root has manifested itself, and It has sprouted forgiveness. There, the undug Well, of which David yearned to drink, is found. There, the Virgin, who gave birth to the Infant, immediately quenched the thirst of Adam and David. Therefore, let us hasten to the place where the young Infant, the Eternal God, is born.
Sessional Hymn, Tone 3
Right fittingly let us hymn the righteous Joseph,* the betrothed of the Virgin, with James and David;* for, having trod the righteous path, they have attained unto the mansions of heaven,* and joining chorus with the angels as is meet,* they beg remission of sins for us.
Glory…
The Virgin has given birth to the Creator of all things,* and the Magi come to worship Him in the flesh.* Men and angels render glory; the cave and the manger offer gifts,* lauding Him Who has been newly born as a babe, the pre-eternal God!
Now…
The choir of prophets divinely celebrates the wonder which took place within you, O Virgin;* for you gave birth to God incarnate upon earth.* Wherefore, angels and shepherds chant,* and the Magi and Joseph sing of the wonders to David, the forefather of God.
Ode 4
Irmos: Leaving not the deep recesses of the Father,* yet you came to earth, Christ God;* I have heard of the mystery of your dispensation* and I glorify you, Lover of man.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
He who was made flesh of the Virgin gave his own back to the scourging, the innocent Master was maltreated for the sinning servant and annulled the charges against me.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
The Maker of man, judging as God the whole earth in righteousness, stands before the seat of lawless judges as one called to account and convicted, and is struck by an earthly hand.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
All-blameless One, as truly Mother of God entreat your Son and Maker to guide me to the safe harbour of his glorious will.
Irmos: Proclaiming the approach of You appearance on earth, O Christ God,* the prophet cried aloud with joy: Glory to Your power, O Lord!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
With the Magi let us worship Him that has been born; and with the angels and Joseph let us join chorus, crying aloud in godly manner: Glory to Christ God in the highest!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Christ, Who reigns over all kings and Who has been born in the flesh of the seed of David, has accepted James, His chosen brother, as it was His good pleasure so to do.
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
The Lord God, Who appeared in the flesh through the Virgin, has glorified your memorials together, O James, chosen of the apostles, and David most blessed, O holy ones.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
Rejoice, O Theotokos unwedded, you who surpass the ranks of the cherubim, having given birth in the flesh to God Who is borne upon your arm.
Irmos: O Christ, You have come forth from the Virgin* as the rod of the root of Jesse and the flower that blossomed from his stem.* You became flesh from her that knew not wedlock,* from the Mountain overshadowed by the forest;* O God, You are not formed from created substance.* Glory to Your power, O Lord!
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
In the days of old, Jacob foretold You, O Christ, calling You the Expectation of the nations. You have come forth from the tribe of Judah and have overcome the might of Damascus and the spoils of Samaria, turning their idolatry into faith pleasing to God. Glory to Your power, O Lord!
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
Rising as a Star out of Jacob, O Master, You have brought joy to the Magi who interpreted wisely the words of Salaam, the prophet of old. They were led to You as the first fruits of the Gentiles, and You graciously received them as they brought You pleasing gifts. Glory to Your power, O Lord!
Glory… Now…
You have descended, O Christ, into the womb of the Virgin as dew upon the fleece and as drops of rain that shower the earth. Ethiopia, Tarshish, and the Isles of Arabia; the kings of Saba, of the Medes, and those of power, O Lord!
Katavasia: O Christ, You have come forth from the Virgin* as the rod of the root of Jesse and the flower that blossomed from his stem.* You became flesh from her that knew not wedlock,* from the Mountain overshadowed by the forest;* O God, You are not formed from created substance.* Glory to Your power, O Lord!
Ode 5
Irmos: Night is without light to unbelievers, O Christ,* but to the faithful it is enlightenment in the delight of your divine words.* And so I rise early to you* and praise your Godhead.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
O Christ, you are sold on behalf of your servants, you endure the scourging, bringing freedom to those who sing to you; early I rise to you and sing the praises of your divinity.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
By your divine power, O Christ, by means of the weakness of the flesh, you have overthrown the strong one, and through your resurrection, O Saviour, you have revealed me as a conqueror of death.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
Pure Mother, all-praised, fittingly you brought forth God, made flesh of you, for without knowledge of man but by the Holy Spirit you conceived.
Irmos: Glory to You! Glory to You, O Jesus, Son of God,* Who have shone forth the light, have illumined the morning and made manifest the day!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Glory to You! Glory to You, a God incarnate, Whose good pleasure it was to take flesh of the pure Virgin! did Joseph cry aloud.
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Glory to You! Glory to You, O Jesus, Son of God, Who was born of the Virgin and have rendered the memory of David and James illustrious!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Jesus, the Son of God, Whom the prophet David, by divine inspiration, called rain upon the fleece, has James preached.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
Unable to keep silent, creation offers you the angel’s salutation, O Virgin: Rejoice, O pure Mother of Jesus, the Son of God!
Irmos: Since You are a God of peace and a Father of mercies,* You have sent your angel of great counsel to us to bring us peace.* Thus, we are directed towards the light of the knowledge of God,* and at the night vigil we glorify You, O Lover of mankind.
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
In obedience to the decree of Caesar, O Christ, You were registered among his servants; and You have set us free from being enslaved to the enemy and sin. Completely sharing in our poverty, You made our nature godlike by uniting Yourself to us and by participating in our nature.
Glory… Now…
As it was prophesied in times past, behold, the Virgin has conceived in her womb and has given birth to God in the flesh and still remained a virgin. Through her we are reconciled to God; let us sinners sing her praises, for she is truly the Mother of God.
Katavasia: Since You are a God of peace and a Father of mercies,* You have sent your angel of great counsel to us to bring us peace.* Thus, we are directed towards the light of the knowledge of God,* and at the night vigil we glorify You, O Lover of mankind.
Ode 6
Irmos: Sick on the rolling swell of the cares of this life,* thrown overboard by the sins that sail with me* and hurled to the soul-destroying beast,* as Jonah I cry to you:* O Christ, lead me up* from these death-dealing deeps.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
The souls of the righteous imprisoned in Hell and forsaken had remembered you and were praying for your salvation; and you granted it, Christ, through your cross when you, the Compassionate, went down to the deepest parts of the earth.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
The band of the apostles despaired of seeing you again, the living temple not made with human hands and destroyed by all that befell it. But worshipping beyond all hope, they everywhere proclaimed you risen from the dead.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
Virgin Bride of God, who of mankind can explain the all-spotless manner of your ineffable child-bearing for our sakes? For the Word being united to you, the uncircumscribed God became flesh.
Irmos: Prefiguring Your three-day burial, within the whale the prophet Jonah cried out, praying:* Deliver me from corruption, O Jesus, King of hosts!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Awe-struck, the heavenly hosts stood before the cave and, unable to keep silent, hymned Your most pure nativity, chanting: Glory in the highest to the newborn God!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Upon Your throne have You sat, as You swore to the prophet David, O Master, Who came forth from the fruit of his loins; and to James did You commit the throne of the Church, O Christ.
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
David the king is shown to be a wondrous prophet and forefather of the incarnation of God; and James, the disciple of Jesus, is shown forth as the first bishop.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
We beseech you, O Virgin Theotokos: In behalf of your servants entreat Him that was incarnate of you, for we know you to be our sole intercessor.
Irmos: Jonah had dwelt like a babe in the womb before the sea monster spew him forth;* the Word dwelt in the womb of the Virgin, taking flesh from her.* Although born from her, He kept her all-pure.* Since Christ Himself was not subject to incorruptibility, He kept His Mother free from the same.
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
Christ our God, begotten from the Father before the morning star, appears in the flesh; He, who directs the armies of heaven, is laid in a manger of dumb beasts. He, who frees the twisted bonds of sin, is wrapped in swaddling clothes.
Glory… Now…
A young child, a Son is born from the race of Adam and is given to the faithful. He is the Father and Prince of the World to come; He is the all-powerful God who rules over all creation; He is called the Angel of great counsel.
Katavasia: Jonah had dwelt like a babe in the womb before the sea monster spew him forth;* the Word dwelt in the womb of the Virgin, taking flesh from her.* Although born from her, He kept her all-pure.* Since Christ Himself was not subject to incorruptibility, He kept His Mother free from the same.
Kontakion, Tone 3
Today the divine David is filled with gladness,* and Joseph offers praise with James.* They rejoice, receiving a crown through their kinship with Christ;* and they laud Him that has ineffably been born on earth,* and cry aloud: O Compassionate One, save them that honour You!
Ikos
The Incorporeal One is, through the ineffable Counsel, born in the flesh; He that is uncontainable is now contained in a body and preserves both essences immutably; He that is without beginning and Who alone is beyond time takes on a beginning; an Infant of surpassing perfection is beheld; He that bears all things is borne in arms. Wherefore, as God, He crowns through His birth them that are honoured by their kinship with Him, and, glorifying them with faith, we cry out unceasingly: O Compassionate One, save them that honour You!
Ode 7
Irmos: The young men of old have shown us a blazing furnace* cool with the gently falling dew,* and themselves singing the praise of the one God and saying:* The most highly exalted, God of our fathers, glorious above all is he.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
A dam of his own will worked disobedience and was slain by a tree; Christ’s obedience formed him anew; for the Son of God was crucified for me, glorious above all is he.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
The whole creation hymns you, Christ, rising from the tomb, for you have caused life to blossom for those in Hell, resurrection for the dead and light for those in darkness. Glorious above all is he.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
Hail, daughter of the corrupted Adam! Hail, sole bride of God! Hail, you who gave birth to God and through whom corruption has been banished! Pray to him, Pure One, to save us all.
Irmos: Once, in Babylon, the children of Abraham trod down the flame of the furnace,* crying aloud in hymns: O God of our fathers, blessed are You!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Amazed beyond words by the birthgiving of Mary, the Theotokos, the angelic choirs cried out to Joseph: Glory in the highest, and on earth peace!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
David, the leader of the bride, and James, who was the chamberlain of the divine Church, did say: O God, Who has become incarnate for our sake, blessed are You!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
O you that was a king among prophets and a prophet among kings, chant with the divinely wise James and lift your voice in song for us: O Christ, Who was incarnate for our sake, blessed are You!
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
Prefigured in the unconsumed bush and in the bedewed furnace, O Mother most pure, you bore without seed God incarnate, O ever blessed one.
Irmos: The youths who had been raised to fear God were not threatened by the fiery torments.* They denounced the wicked decree of the tyrant,* and standing in the midst of the flames,* they sang: Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers.
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
An angel of the Lord appeared to the shepherds keeping night watch over their flocks. The shepherds were frightened as they saw the glory of the Lord around the angel and heard him say: Rejoice, for Christ is born. Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers.
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
At the word of the angel, the heavenly hosts cried aloud: Glory to God in the highest and on earth, peace and good will to all; Christ has shone forth . Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers.
Glory… Now…
When the angel had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another: Let us go and see this event which the Lord has made known to us. They hastened to Bethlehem and worshiped with Mary the One whom she had borne. They cried out: Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers.
Katavasia: The youths who had been raised to fear God were not threatened by the fiery torments.* They denounced the wicked decree of the tyrant,* and standing in the midst of the flames,* they sang: Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers.
Ode 8
Irmos: Burning yet unconsumed, the bush in Sinai made God known to Moses,* slow of tongue and hard of hearing.* And the burning zeal for God revealed the three young men unharmed in the fire and singing:* Praise the Lord, all his works,* and highly exalt him throughout all the ages.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
The undefiled and reasonable Lamb, in sacrifice slain for the world, brought to an end the offerings according to the law and as God, apart from transgressions, cleansed the law now crying out: Praise the Lord, all his works, and highly exalt him throughout all the ages.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
The flesh the Maker took from us before his Passion was not incorruptible; but after Passion and Rising, it was rendered inaccessible to corruption and re-makes mortal men, who cry: Praise the Lord, all his works, and highly exalt him throughout all the ages.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
Your purity, your total spotlessness, O Virgin, has cleansed the sordid and polluted things of our world, and you, All-pure, have become for us a cause of reconciliation with God. Therefore, O Virgin, we bless and highly exalt you throughout all the ages.
Irmos: Christ the King did the captive children confess,* proclaiming with a loud voice in the furnace:* All you works of the Lord,* hymn and exalt Him supremely for all ages!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Christ incarnate, Whom the hosts of heaven have glorified, Joseph the betrothed unceasingly hymns, chanting: All you works of the Lord, hymn and exalt Him supremely for all ages!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Christ incarnate, Whom David the forefather of God foretold, James preached to the people, crying out: All you works of the Lord, hymn and exalt Him supremely for all ages!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Christ, Who was born of the Virgin and Who has exalted the sacred memory of David and James, in that they are His friends, hymn, all you works of the Lord, and exalt supremely for all ages!
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
Christ the King, to Whom Mary the Theotokos has given birth for us, remaining a pure Virgin even after her birthgiving, hymn, all you works of the Lord, and exalt supremely for all ages!
Irmos: The dew-moistened furnace was the image of an incomprehensible wonder.* It did not burn the youths entrapped there,* just as the fire of the Godhead did not consume the Virgin’s womb in which He dwelt.* Therefore, let us praise God, saying: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him above all forever.
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
The children of David were once led captive from Sion by the daughter of Babylon through the strength of the sword; now, the Magi bringing gifts, are sent by her to beseech the Daughter of David in whom God took flesh. Therefore, let us praise God, saying: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him above all forever.
Glory to Your holy Nativity, O Lord!
As captives, the children of Sion did not play upon their lyres; Christ, shining forth in Bethlehem, quiets all the iniquity of Babylon as well as the music of her harps. Therefore, let us praise God, saying: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him above all forever.
Glory… Now…
Babylon plundered Sion, the Queen, and seized all her riches. But Christ, by a guiding star, attracted to Sion the wealth of Babylon with her kings who studied the stars. Therefore, let us praise God, saying: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him above all forever.
We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever.
Katavasia: The dew-moistened furnace was the image of an incomprehensible wonder.* It did not burn the youths entrapped there,* just as the fire of the Godhead did not consume the Virgin’s womb in which He dwelt.* Therefore, let us praise God, saying: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him above all forever.
Magnificat
Ode 9
Irmos: Conceiving without taint of corruption,* lending your flesh to the Word, the Deviser of all,* Mother knowing no man, Virgin, Godbearer,* vessel receiving the illimitable* and dwelling for your infinite Maker:* we magnify you.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
Be silent, you minds estranged, who fit suffering to the divinity; for we magnify the Lord of glory, crucified in the flesh but not crucified in the divine nature: one person in two natures.
Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord.
All you who deny the body’s resurrection, go to the tomb of Christ and learn that the flesh of the giver of life was put to death and rose again in assurance of the final resurrection; for this we hope.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
As we worship not a trinity of Godheads but of persons, not oneness of persons but of Godhead, we part from those who divide and confound those who dare to confuse the Trinity whom we magnify.
Irmos: On the mountain did Moses behold the unconsumed bush;* and in the cave did Joseph hear the ineffable birth.* O Theotokos, Virgin undefiled, Mother without husband,* you do we magnify in hymns!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
With trembling all creation ministers to Him that has been born of the Virgin: the heavens with a star; the earth with a manger; the mountain with a cave; the Magi with gifts; the shepherds with wonder; and the angels with the hymn, Glory to God in the highest!
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Of old was David chosen king from among the shepherds; and from the royal tribe of Judah are you, O James. You are shown to be a shepherd of the flock of the Incarnate One, the Lamb, the Son of God Most High.
Holy Just Joseph, King David, and James, brother of the Lord, pray to God for us!
Be glad now, O Bethlehem, having become the city of the new David! O Zion, citadel of the Churches, exult now, taking up the common celebration of the King of all and His favoured ones.
Most holy Theotokos, save us!
The assemblies of angels glorify you, O Theotokos, and the human race unceasingly honours you with hymns, for by your divine birthgiving have you united the earthly to the heavenly. Wherefore, we do you honour.
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.
O my soul, extol our God, born in the flesh from the Virgin.
Observing the unusual path of a mysterious and newly shining star which was brighter than any other heavenly light, the Magi learned that Christ the King was born on earth in Bethlehem for our salvation.
O my soul, extol our God, born in the flesh from the Virgin.
The Magi asked of Herod: Where is the new-born King whose star we have seen? We have come to worship Him. The enemy of God was troubled and irrationally schemed how to kill Christ.
O my soul, extol the pure Virgin, who has given birth to Christ the King.
Herod asked the Magi, who had come to Bethlehem to worship Christ with their gifts, when they had first seen the star which directed them. But the Magi returned to their own country by the same star, thereby deceiving Herod, the killer of the Innocents.
Katavasia: 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.
Small Litany
Holy is the Lord
Hymn of Light
The two sons of Zebedee, with Peter, Nathaniel, and Thomas,* and two others were fishing in the Lake of Tiberias.* By the command of Christ, they cast the net on the right side* and drew out many fish.* Peter, recognizing Christ, came swimming toward Him.* This was the third appearance of the Lord after His resurrection.* Then He shared with them bread and fish from the fire.
Glory…
Let us hymn David, the forefather of God, and divine Joseph, the betrothed of the Theotokos, with James, the glorious brother of God, for, with the angels, the Magi and the shepherds, they ministered in godly manner at the divine nativity of Christ in the city of Bethlehem, chanting a hymn to Him as God and Master.
Now…
From on high our Savior, the Dayspring of the East has visited us and we who are in darkness and shadow have truly found Him; for the Lord has been born of the Virgin.
Praises
Stichera of the Praises, Tone 7
Christ is risen from the dead,* loosing the bonds of death;* O earth! proclaim the good tidings of great joy; and you heavens praise the glory of God.
Having seen the Resurrection of Christ,* let us worship the holy Lord Jesus, the only sinless one.
We cease not to worship the Holy Resurrection of Christ,* for He has saved us from our iniquities,* Holy is the Lord Jesus* who has shown us the Resurrection.
What shall we render to the Lord for all that He has rendered unto us?* For our sake God dwelled among us;* for our corrupted nature the Word became flesh and dwelled within us;* to the ungrateful He is the Benefactor;* to prisoners He is the Liberator;* to those in darkness He is the Sun of justice;* the path to the Cross;* the Light to Hades; Life to death;* Resurrection for the fallen:* to Him we cry aloud: Our God, glory be to You!’
Tone 4
O holy ones, be happy;* O heavens, be glad; and all you mountains, sing with joy* because Christ our God today is born.* Behold, the Virgin is enthroned like the Cherubim,* holding in her arms the incarnate Word of God.* The shepherds glorify with hymns the new-born Babe;* the Magi offer gifts to their Master;* and the angels sing praises and say:* O incomprehensible Lord, glory to You!
O Virgin Theotokos, you gave birth to the Savior.* You overthrew the ancient curse of Eve.* As a mother you were the benevolence of the Father.* You bore in your womb the incarnate Word of God.* We cannot understand this mystery,* but we glorify it with one faith.* We also join you in praise to say:* O Ineffable Lord, glory to You!
Come, all you peoples,* let us praise the Mother of our Saviour,* for she remained a virgin after childbirth.* Rejoice, O holy city of our King and God.* The Saviour has chosen to live in you,* and in you He has worked out our salvation.* With Gabriel, we sing your praises;* and with the shepherds we glorify you, saying:* O Mother of God, implore Him who became incarnate from you,* that He may save our souls.
By the will of the Father, the Word became flesh.* The Virgin gave birth to the Incarnate God.* The star proclaims and the Magi adore;* the shepherds are amazed and all creation rejoices.
Tone 8, Glory…
Blood and fire and clouds of smoke are the wonders which Joel foresaw on earth.* The blood is the Incarnation; the fire is the Godhead;* the clouds of smoke are the Holy Spirit, Who descended upon the Virgin* and has made the world fragrant.* Great is the mystery of Your Incarnation!* O Lord, glory be to You!
Tone 2, Now…
You are truly most blessed, O virgin Mother of God.* Through the One who was incarnate of you,* Hades was chained, Adam revived, the curse wiped out,* Eve set free, Death put to death,* and we ourselves were brought back to life.* That is why we cry out in praise;* Blessed are You, O Christ our God,* who finds in this your good pleasure. Glory to You!
Great Doxology
Trisagion Prayers
Troparion, Tone 2
Today salvation has come to the world.* Let us sing to Him who is risen from the tomb,* the Author of Life who has crushed Death by his death* and bestowed on us victory and great mercy.
Insistent Litany
Litany of Supplication
Great Dismissal
DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING
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
Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour.
Son of God, born of a Virgin, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms.
Son of God, born of a Virgin, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth.
Son of God, born of a Virgin, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
Entrance
Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ.
Son of God, born of a Virgin, save us who sing to You: Alleluia.
Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 7: By Your cross You destroyed death;* You opened Paradise to the thief;* You changed the lamentation of the myrrh-bearers to joy,* and charged the apostles to proclaim* that You are risen, O Christ our God,* offering great mercy to the world.
Troparion, Tone 4: 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 You, the Dawn from on the high.* Glory to You, O Lord.
Troparion, Tone 2: O Joseph, announce to David, the ancestor of God, the news of the miracle:* You saw a virgin giving birth.* With the shepherds, you gave praise and with the Magi you worshipped;* they too were warned by an angel.* Pray to Christ our God to save our souls.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Kontakion, Tone 3: Today the divine David is filled with gladness;* Joseph along with James offers praises* for having received a crown through their kinship with Christ they rejoice* and sing of the One who inexpressibly was born on earth,* crying out, “O Gracious One, save those who worship You.”
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.
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 1:11-19
Alleluia, Tone 4
verse: Lord, remember David and all his meekness.
verse: How he swore an oath to the Lord, and vowed to the God of Jacob. (Psalm 131:1,2)
Gospel
Matthew 2:13-23
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
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.
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)