Liturgical Texts and Music

Feb 10, 2025 - The Holy Martyr Charalampius.

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 10, 2025 Fast-free week. VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. I weep and am downcast, envisioning the dread sentence of the Word,* for which I, a wretch, have not the least reply for my guilt.* Wherefore, I pray: Before the unseemliness of my end overtake me,* before I am mowed down by death,* before I must needs be condemned to the place* where the fire is unquenchable and the darkness is absolute,* where are the worm and gnashing of teeth, and sinners are consumed,* О my Christ, grant me great mercy and deliverance from my offenses. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Disdaining Your laws and the Scriptures, wretch that I am,* I have rejected Your commandments, О God my Creator.* How will I ever avoid the torment which is to come, О Saviour!* Wherefore, before my end grant me forgiveness and a shower of tears,* imparting true compunction to me, О Saviour.* As You are the supremely good God,* drive far from me the hordes of the demons* who seek to drag me down into the abyss of Hades, for I entreat You:* Take not Your almighty hand from me! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Woe is me! How have I been darkened in mind?* How have I withdrawn from You and, wretch that I am, enslaved myself to sin;* and, enslaved to the passions, given myself wholly over to carnal pleasure* which lives within me, who am passion-fraught?* Now I await my departure from this life and the coming reckoning.* О supremely good Lord, grant me tearful repentance* and release from my countless transgressions,* for with faith I beseech You who grants the world great mercy. Tone 6 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Having set yourself wholly aside for the Master from your youth,* you desired Him, and followed in His steps;* and having been cleansed of all the defilement of the passions,* you were enriched with divine grace,* that you might work healings and perform most glorious miracles;* and you became a martyr, remaining unmoved by all the assaults of the torments,* through the power of Him who was slain upon the Cross.* Earnestly entreat Him in behalf of our souls. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Though your blessed, enduring and invincible body was pierced with nails, O athlete Charalampius,* you kept your soul steadfast and your mind inviolate;* for divine desire richly enkindled you, O glorious one,* and exhorted you to endure all manner of torment, O passion-bearing martyr,* who shared in the sufferings of Christ.* Entreat Him with boldness in behalf of our souls. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Having suffered, you inherited all-radiant joy, and ineffable glory,* and everlasting rejoicing, O venerable priest, honoured athlete, valiant warrior,* who with the streams of your blood* manifestly drowned the armies and hosts of the serpent,* and by grace and divine prayer you truly raised the dead,* praying with boldness in behalf of our souls. Tone 6, Glory… Now… O most immaculate one, quickly visit me* who have been wounded by the robbers’ assaults of the demons* and who lie, wholly unable to move,* on the ever-shifting path of this life, in need of mercy;* and pour wine and oil upon my incurable wounds, and restore me to health;* that I may glorify you and lovingly hymn your mighty works, as is meet,* O Mother and Virgin, who alone are pure. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 5 O Lord, I cease not to sin,* nor do I perceive Your love for mankind which You have granted me.* Vanquish my lack of discernment, O You who alone are good,* and have mercy upon me. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. O Lord, from reverent fear of You I tremble,* yet I cease not from committing sins.* Who, when called to trial, does not fear the judge?* Or who, desiring to be healed, angers the physician, as I do?* O longsuffering Lord, have compassion upon my weakness,* and have mercy upon me. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Not caring for all earthly things, and manfully braving tortures,* you were not disappointed in your goodly hopes,* but became inheritors of the kingdom, of heaven, О all-praised martyrs.* Having boldness before God the Lover of mankind,* ask peace for the world and great mercy for our souls. Glory… Now… O strange, awesome and great mystery!* The Uncircumscribable One has made His abode within a womb,* and a Mother remains a Virgin even after birthgiving,* for from her she gave birth to God Incarnate.* To Him, then, let us cry aloud,* to Him let us raise a hymn, chanting with the angels:* Holy are You, O Christ God, who was incarnate for our sake!* Glory be to You! Troparia Tone 4 Your martyr, Charalampius, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, save our souls. Glory… Now… To the One who was reared in the Temple,* close to the Holy of Holies,* and who was full of faith, wisdom, and perfect virginity,* Gabriel, the captain and leader,* offered esteem and greetings from heaven when he said:* Rejoice, O blessed One! Rejoice, O glorified One!* The Lord is with you. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Your martyr, Charalampius, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, 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 2: As a bright and unerring star you appeared to the world* proclaiming with your rays the Sun, that is, Christ, O martyr, Charalampius,* and you have extinguished all error.* But to us you give light, praying without ceasing for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle 2 Peter 1:20-2:9 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just man shall flourish like the palm tree; and he shall grow like the cedar in Lebanon. verse: They who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish the courts of our God. (Psalm 91:13,14) Gospel Mark 13:9-13 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Feb 9, 2025 - Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee; Octoechos Tone 5; Leave-taking of the Encounter of our Lord; The Holy Martyr Nicephorus.

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 9, 2025 GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 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 sin,* and have saved us from the gates of death.* We, therefore, glorify You, O only-begotten Son of God. 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! 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. Tone 1 Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Brethren, let us not pray as the Pharisee:* for he who exalts himself shall be humbled.* Let us humble ourselves before God,* and with fasting cry aloud as the Publican:* God be merciful to us sinners. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Brethren, let us not pray as the Pharisee:* for he who exalts himself shall be humbled.* Let us humble ourselves before God,* and with fasting cry aloud as the Publican:* God be merciful to us sinners. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. A Pharisee, overcome with vainglory, and a Publican, bowed down in repentance,* came to You the only Master.* The one boasted and was deprived of blessings,* while the other kept silent and was counted worthy of gifts.* Confirm me, O Christ our God,* in these his cries of sorrow,* for You love mankind. Tone 1 From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Simeon, tell us whom you are joyfully carrying into the Temple.* To whom are you saying:* Now You may dismiss Your servant, O Lord,* because my eyes have seen my Saviour.* He is the child born of the Virgin.* He is the Word and God of God.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and saved the world,* to You we bow in worship. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O Simeon, tell us whom you are joyfully carrying into the Temple.* To whom are you saying:* Now You may dismiss Your servant, O Lord,* because my eyes have seen my Saviour.* He is the child born of the Virgin.* He is the Word and God of God.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and saved the world,* to You we bow in worship. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O Simeon, now receive the One* Whom Moses the lawgiver had foreseen through the cloud on Sinai.* He has become a child and submits Himself to the Law.* This is He who spoke through the Law and whom the prophets foretold.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and saved the world,* to You we bow in worship. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O faithful, come let us welcome Christ* and receive Him with hymns of praise and glory.* He is the salvation Simeon has seen.* He is the One whom David foretold* and of whom the prophets have spoken.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and inspired the Law,* to You we bow in worship. Tone 8, Glory… Almighty Lord, I know how great is the power of tears.* For they led up Hezekiah from the gates of death;* they delivered the sinful woman from the transgressions of many years;* they justified the Publican above the Pharisee.* And with them I also pray:* Have mercy upon me. 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! 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 5 O Christ our Saviour,* we lift up our voices in song 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. Tone 5, Glory… My eyes are weighed down by my transgressions,* and I cannot lift them up and see the height of heaven.* But receive me, Saviour, in repentance as the Publican* and have mercy on me. Tone 8, Now… He who rides on the Cherubim and is praised by the Seraphim* is now being brought into the holy Temple according to the Law.* He is sitting in the arms of an old man as though upon a throne.* From Joseph He receives God-pleasing gifts, a pair of turtle doves,* and from the newly-chosen people of the Gentiles, and undefiled Church.* the two doves indicate that He is the head both of the Old and New Testaments.* As for Simeon, when he saw what had been revealed come to pass,* he received the child and blessed the virgin Mother of God,* pointing out to her the sufferings that she would bear.* He asked the Lord to be released from life, saying:* Now You may dismiss me, O Lord, as You have promised;* for my eyes have seen You, the eternal Light,* the Lord and Saviour of all Christian people. Troparia 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. Tone 1, Glory... Now... Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 5 Troparia, 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. (2) Tone 1, Glory... Now... Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 5 Let us celebrate the Cross of the Lord,* let us honour His holy Burial with hymns,* and let us exulting, glorify His Resurrection.* For with Himself He has raised the dead from their graves,* and as God having despoiled the dominion of death* and the might of the devil,* He has shone forth light upon those in Hades. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high; forget not Your poor to the end. O Lord, You who put death to death, was called dead;* You who have emptied the tombs was placed in a tomb;* above, the soldiers stood guarding the grave,* below, You raised the dead from all ages.* O Lord, All-powerful and Incomprehensible,* glory be to You! Glory… Now… Rejoice holy mountain upon which God has walked;* Rejoice! living bush unconsumed by fire;* Rejoice! O only bridge of creation to God, who leads mortals to eternal life;* Rejoice! Maiden undefiled, who has born without wedlock* the salvation of our souls. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 5 O Lord, after Your Resurrection on the third day,* and after the worship of the Apostles, Peter cried to You;* The women had courage, and I was afraid;* the Thief confessed You as God, and I denied You:* will You no longer call me a disciple,* or will You once again declare me a fisher of the deep?* Receive me in my penitence, O God, and save me!’ I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart, I will tell of all You wonders. O Merciful Lord, the lawless Ones nailed You between two condemned thieves* and pierced Your side with a lance,* but You, who destroyed the gates of Hades,* suffered burial and arose on the third day;* The women ran to see You and announced the Resurrection to Your Apostles.* O supremely exalted Saviour whom the Angels hymn,* O blessed Lord, glory be to You. Glory… Now… The Bride who knew not wedlock, the Birthgiver of God,* who turned Eve’s grief to joy,* we the faithful hymn and worship,* for you have redeemed us from the ancient curse.* And now, O All-hymned most holy one,* cease not to make intercession for the salvation of our souls. Polyeleos Evoglitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 5 The Myrrh-bearing women, amazed in their minds by the vision of the Angel* yet enlightened in their souls by the divine Resurrection,* announced the glad tidings to the Apostles:* Proclaim among the nations the Resurrection of the Lord,* who works in us through wonders,* and who grants us great mercy. Gradual Hymns, Tone 5 Antiphon 1 When I am troubled I sing to You like David,* O my Saviour:* Deliver my soul from a deceitful tongue. Blessed is the life of those* who dwell in the desert places,* Divine love gives them wings. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit all things are unshaken,* both visible and invisible;* for He has sovereign power,* being undeniably one of the Trinity. Antiphon 2 Lift up yourself to the mountains,* O my soul;* go to that place from whence comes our help. Let Your right hand hover over me,* O Christ,* and guard me from every misfortune. Glory… Now… Let us sing to the Holy Spirit, as we contemplate God:* You are God, life, love, light, and intellect,* You are goodness,* and You reign to the ages. Antiphon 3 Filled with great joy at the words of those who say to me:* “Let us go into the courts of the Lord,”* I offer up my prayers. Fearful things are accomplished in the house of David;* for a fire is found there,* burning every shameful thought. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit belongs the lordship of life,* for from Him every living being hath its breath,* as also from the Father* together with the Son. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 Arise, O Lord my God, lift up Your hand*, for You shall reign forever. verse: I will confess to You, O Lord, with my whole heart, I will recount all Your marvellous works. Let everything that lives, Tone 5 Gospel Luke 24:12-35 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Tone 8, Glory… Open to me the doors of repentance, O Giver of Life.* As we worship in Your temple this morning,* teach us how to purify the temples of our bodies,* and in Your compassion, purify me by the goodness of Your mercies. Now… Lead me to the paths of salvation, O Mother of God,* for I have condemned myself with shameful sins* and have wasted all my life in slothfulness.* By your intercession purify me from all sinfulness. Tone 6 Have mercy on me, God, in Your kindness. In Your compassion blot out my offense. When I think upon the multitude of my evil deeds,* I tremble for the terrible day of judgment.* But trusting in the compassion of Your mercy, O Lord,* I cry to You like David:* Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your great mercy. Canon, Tone 5 Ode 1 Irmos: Christ, who breaks the battles,* with uplifted arm shook horse and rider into the Red Sea,* but Israel he saved,* singing a song of victory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The congregation of the Hebrews preserved no mother’s love for you who gave them every good; they crowned you with thorns, O Christ, you who had loosed from the punishing thorns the first ancestor of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Giver of life, you bent down to the pit without danger of falling and raised me up who had fallen; you bore with my evil-smelling corruption, O Christ, yourself untouched, and made me fragrant with the sweet oil of the divine nature. Most holy Theotokos, saves us! The curse is lifted, sorrow has ceased; O blessed one and full of grace, you have caused joy to spring up for the faithful for from you Christ has flowered, our blessing for ever. Irmos: When Israel walked on foot in the sea as on dry land,* on seeing their pursuer Pharaoh drowned,* they cried: Let us sing to God* a song of victory. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. By parables Christ has led all mankind to a life of amendment: Raising up the Publican from humbleness, he showed the Pharisee who exalted himself to be humbled. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. From humility cometh an exalted honour, but from pride we see a grievous fall; let us, then, strive to emulate the good actions of the Publican, and hate the evil ones of the Pharisee. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Every good deed is rendered useless through pride, while every evil is cleansed by humility. Wherefore, let us in faith embrace humility, and utterly abhor the ways of vainglory. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. The King of all, wishing His own disciples to be humble-minded, taught them to emulate the sighing of the Publican and his humility. Glory… I groan as did the Publican, and with never-silent lamentations O Lord I now draw near to Your loving compassion, be merciful to me who now passes through life in humility. Now… O lady, I dedicate to you my understanding and my counsel, my expectation, my body, soul and spirit. From grievous adversaries and temptations, and from every threat to come, deliver and save me. Katavasia: I shall open my mouth, and be filled with the Spirit,* and utter discourse to the Queen and Mother;* and be seen radiantly keeping festival,* joyfully praising her wonders. Ode 3 Irmos: Your command fixed firm the earth upon nothing* and sovereignty poised its vast bulk;* make firm your Church on the immovable rock of your commandments,* O Christ, alone good and Lover of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Those who sucked honey from the rock brought you gall for your wonders in the wilderness, O Christ. Vinegar for manna the ungrateful sons of Israel gave you in exchange for your deeds of goodness. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Covered of old by a light-radiant cloud they laid life, O Christ, in the grave: but, you rose of your own power, and you granted mystically to all the faithful the Spirit’s overshadowing shining from above. Most holy Theotokos, saves us! Mother of God, virginally and without a mother’s pain you bore him, the outshining of the untouched Father; therefore, since you conceived the Word made flesh, in true faith we proclaim you Bearer of God. Irmos: There is none as holy as You, O Lord my God,* who has exalted the horn of the faithful O good One,* and strengthened us upon the rock* of Your confession. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. From the dunghill of the passions the humble are lifted up on high, while from the height of the virtues the high-minded suffer a grievous fall: let us flee such an image of wickedness. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Vainglory nullifies the riches of righteousness, whereas humility scatters a multitude of passions; bestowing this upon us, show us to be like the Publican O Saviour. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Like the Publican let us also beat our breasts and cry out in compunction, “O God cleanse us sinners,” that like him we may receive forgiveness. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Zealously, O you faithful, let us increase in meekness, and with humility let us live out the days of our lives in suffering of the heart, weeping and prayer, that we may receive forgiveness from God. Glory… Let us cast away, you faithful, the high-minded boasting and hurtful pride of the Pharisee, and his most wicked, repugnant to God, malice. Now… In you, my only refuge, have I set my trust: let me not fall away from my good hope, but grant me your protection, O pure One, and deliver me from every evil snare of my wicked enemies. Katavasia: O Theotokos, living and plentiful fount,* establish in spiritual fellowship those who sing hymns to you,* and in your divine glory* grant them crowns of glory. Kontakion, Tone 4 Let us flee from the proud-speaking of the Pharisee* and learn from the Publican the loftiness of words of humility,* and with penitential lamentation let us cry aloud: “O Saviour of the world* be merciful to us, and cleanse us You servants’. Ikos Let us all humble ourselves, brethren; sighing and lamenting, beating our conscience, that at the eternal judgment we may be numbered with the faithful and the righteous, and receive forgiveness. Let us pray that we behold the place truly peaceful, where there is neither pain, nor sorrow, nor sighing from the soul, in the wondrous Eden fashioned by Christ, for He is God coeternal with the Father. Sessional Hymns, Tone 4 Humility exalted the Publican who was overcome with shame at his evil deeds,* when he cried to the Creator, “Be merciful:”* but exaltation brought down from righteousness the wretched Pharisee who spoke boastfully.* Therefore let us earnestly desire that which is good* and avoid that which is evil. Glory… Of old humility exalted the Publican who cried aloud with tears,* “Be merciful,” and he was justified.* Let us all follow his example,* for we have fallen into the depths of evil.* Let us cry to the Saviour from the depths of our hearts:* We have sinned, be merciful, O You who alone loves mankind. Now… Be swift to receive our prayers, O Lady,* and bring them to your Son and God, all-immaculate Sovereign Lady.* Deliver from tribulations those who flee to you.* Destroy the wiles and subdue the arrogance* of those who godlessly war against your servants, O most pure One. Ode 4 Irmos: Habakkuk in prophecy, O Christ, apprehending your divine emptying, in trembling awe cried out to you: For the salvation of your people, to make safe your anointed, you have come. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Good One, the most bitter streams of Meribah you sweetened by a tree, and thus in sign prefigured your pure cross which slays the bitter taste of sin. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You accepted a cross for the tree of knowledge, my Saviour, gall for sweet food, and for the corruption of death you shed the blood of God. Most holy Theotokos, saves us! Untouched, you conceived incorruptibly in your womb; a Virgin, guarded to bring forth God in the flesh, you bore a child without pain and were virgin after the birth. Irmos: Christ is my power, my God and my Lord,* the holy Church divinely sings,* crying with a pure mind,* keeping festival in the Lord. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. The Word, set an example showing that the path to exaltation is humility, having humbled Himself even unto taking the form of a servant, thereby instructing all, that he who humbles himself shall be exalted on high. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. The righteous Pharisee exalted himself and fell, wickedly rejecting humility, but through humility the Publican was exalted and justified. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. He who was without need of virtue was deprived of them, and shown to be foolish. Yet the riches of humility justified him who was in most need of them, whose humility let us emulate. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. O Lord, You did forewarn all that You resist the high-minded, but grant Your grace to the humble. O Saviour send down now Your grace upon us, for we have humbled ourselves. Glory… The Saviour and Master, ever leading us to blessed exaltation, has shown us that it is humility that raises one on high, for with His own hands He washed the feet of the disciples. Now… O Virgin, who has given birth to the unapproachable Light, by your light-giving effulgence disperse the darkness of my soul, and taking me by the hand, guide my life into the path of salvation. Katavasia: He who sits in glory upon the throne of the Godhead, Jesus the true God,* is come in a swift cloud* and with His sinless hands he has saved those who cry:* Glory to Your power, O Christ. Ode 5 Irmos: To you, clothed with light as a garment,* early I rise and cry out.* Lighten my darkened soul,* O Christ, only compassionate. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. In dishonour and inglorious form, of his own will the Lord of glory hung upon the cross, and inconceivably thus procured for me divine glory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You have changed my clothing for the garment of incorruption, O Christ, for uncorrupted you tasted the corruption of death in the flesh, and on the third day rose from the tomb. Most holy Theotokos, saves us! Mother of God, you set free our first father’s nature from the curse, for without seed you gave birth to Christ our righteousness and redemption. Irmos: Illumine with Your divine light, I pray, O Good One,* the souls of those who with love rise early to pray to You,* that they may know You, O Word of God, as the true God,* Who recalls us from the darkness of sin. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Let us make haste to follow the Pharisee in his virtues and to emulate the Publican in his humility, and let us hate what is wrong in each of them: foolish opinion and the fall into self-destruction. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. The righteousness of the Pharisee proved to be vain and was condemned, for it was yoked to prideful opinion; However, the Publican became a co-companion of humility, the virtue which exalts one on high. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. The Pharisee thought to drive swiftly in the chariot of the virtues; but the Publican outran him on foot, for he had yoked humility to compassion. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Pondering with our minds the parable of the Publican, let us all emulate him with tears, offering to God a contrite spirit, seeking the remission of our sins. Glory… Let us cast far away the wicked haughtiness and boasting of the Pharisee, that we may not be stripped of divine grace. Now… A staff of strength grant to all, O good one, who flee to you, grant them victory in the midst of all enemies and deliver them from every evil circumstance. Katavasia: All creation stands in awe of you divine glory;* for you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock, contained within your womb the God of all,* and gave birth to the timeless Son,* bestowing peace, upon all who hymn you. Ode 6 Irmos: Lord Christ, calm the soul-destroying waves of the raging sea of passions* and, O compassionate, lead me up from corruption. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Our first ancestor fell into corruption, Lord Christ, tasting forbidden fruit; and he was brought back to life by your Passion. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You, the life, came to Hell and to the corrupter became corruption; thus, Lord Christ, through corruption you brought, as fountain springing, resurrection. Most holy Theotokos, saves us! The Virgin bore a child and after bearing still was pure; holding him up in her arms who supports the whole creation she is truly Virgin Mother. Irmos: Beholding the sea of life surging with the tempest of temptations,* I run to Your calm haven, and cry to You:* Raise up my life from corruption,* O greatly Merciful One. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. The Publican along with the Pharisee ran the race of life, but the one was overcome by high-mindedness and shipwrecked, while the other was saved by humility. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Changing to a humble course of life, let us emulate the fervent wisdom of the Publican and flee the deadening conceit of the Pharisee; and we shall live. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Let us fervently follow the ways of Jesus the Saviour and His humility, if we desire to reach the tabernacle of everlasting joy and to dwell in the land of the living. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. O Master, You have shown to Your disciples the humility that raises men on high, for girding Your loins with a towel, and washing their feet You prepared them to follow Your example. Glory… The Pharisee passed his life in virtue and the Publican in sin; but the former was brought low by his pride, while the latter was raised on high by his humble-mindedness. Now… I was formed naked in innocence and simplicity; but the enemy hath clothed me in the raiment of transgressions and the grossness of the flesh. But by your intercessions, O Maiden, I have been saved. Katavasia: Celebrating the divine and solemn feast of the Mother of God* O you divinely wise, let us come, clapping our hands,* and glorify God who was born of her. Kontakion, Tone 5 You, my Saviour, descended to Hades,* and as the Almighty, You shattered its gates.* With Yourself You, as the Creator, raised the dead and shattered the sting of death,* and delivered Adam from the curse, O Lover of Mankind.* And so we cry out: “Save us, O Lord.” Ikos The women heard the angel’s words, shed their lamentations, changed to gladness, trembling, saw the resurrection. And Christ drew near in greeting: Joy to you, take courage, I have overcome the world, and set the prisoners free. Run to the disciples and ay: I go before you into Galilee to pr claim the good news. Therefore we all cry out to you: Save us, O Lord. Ode 7 Irmos: The Lord of the fathers, most highly exalted,* quenched the fire and rained his dew* on the young men in unison singing:* Blessed are you, O God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Clothed with flesh as bait for the hook, by your divine power you dragged the serpent down, and brought back those who cried: Blessed are you, O God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He, the unbounded, who brought into being and knitted together the boundless immensities of earth, in the flesh was concealed in the grave; and we sing to him: Blessed are you, O God. Most holy Theotokos, saves us! All-holy, you bore one person in two natures, God has taken bodily form and we sing to him: Blessed are you, O God. Irmos: An Angel made the furnace bedew the holy Children.* But the command of God consumed the Chaldeans* and prevailed upon the tyrant to cry:* O God of our fathers, blessed are You. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Exalted by the works of self-justification, the Pharisee was grievously snared in the nets of vainglory, boasting madly; but the Publican was lifted on high on the light wings of humility, and drew near to God. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Using humility as a ladder, the Publican was raised on high to the heights of heaven; but by the putrid foolishness of pride the wretched Pharisee fell into the abyss of Hades. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. The enemy catches the righteous and despoils them through vainglory, blinding sinners in the nets of despair. But let us emulate the Publican and hasten to escape from both these evils. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. In our prayer before God, let us fall down with tears and fervent sighs, emulating the Publican in his lofty humility; and singing in faith: “O God of our fathers, blessed are You”. Glory… You have forewarned Your disciples, O Master, teaching them not to be lofty of wisdom, but to be numbered with those who are humble-minded. Therefore, O Saviour, in faith we cry aloud to You: O God of our fathers, blessed are You. Now… O you beauty of Jacob, divine Ladder which of old he beheld stretching from earth to heaven, you holy Virgin, who have brought down from on high God made flesh, and bring mortal man up to heaven. Katavasia: Refusing to worship created things in place of the Creator,* the divinely wise youths bravely trampled down the threatening fire* and rejoicing they sang aloud:* O supremely hymned Lord and God of our Fathers, blessed are You. Ode 8 Irmos: The young men in the furnace devised a chorus of all creation for you, the Creator of all,* and in song they proclaimed it:* All you his works, sing to the Lord,* and highly exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As if it were against your will, of that so longed for cup of your saving Passion you prayed that it might not be: two wills to two natures corresponding you bear, O Christ, throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. At your descent, Creator of all, Hell the fool gave up all those who of old had been slain by deceit, and who now, O Christ, highly exalt you throughout all the ages. Most holy Theotokos, saves us! O Virgin, beyond thought, in divine and human manner, by the word you bore the Lord, while remaining virgin; we, his creatures, bless and highly exalt you throughout all the ages. Irmos: You made flame bedew the holy children,* and didst burn the sacrifice of a righteous man with water.* For Thou alone, O Christ, do all as You will,* we supremely exalt You throughout all ages. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. The humble-minded sighing of the Publican found the mercy of the Lord, and he was saved; but by the evil tongue of boasting, the Pharisee fell from righteousness. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. O you faithful, let us avoid the self-will of the Pharisee; who called himself pure, rather let us strive to emulate the Publican’s goodness, who gained forgiveness with humility. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. O you faithful, let us utter the words of the Publican in the holy temple, “God be merciful,” that with him we may obtain forgiveness, and be delivered from the vile boasting of the Pharisee. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Let us all emulate the sighing of the Publican and, speaking to God with warm tears, let us cry out: “O Lover of mankind, we have sinned, but in Your merciful compassion, cleanse and save us.” Glory… God accepted the groaning of the Publican and having justified him, has shown to us all, that He is quickly turned to compassion by the sighings and tears of those who ask for the forgiveness of sins. Now… I know of no other intercessor save you; I offer you, O pure and all-immaculate One, as my mediator before Him whom you bore. Show me to be free from all that grieves me. We praise, bless, and worship the Lord, chanting and supremely exalting Him throughout all ages. Katavasia: The Offspring of the Theotokos saved the holy children in the furnace.* He who was then prefigured has now been born on earth,* and He gathers all creation to hymn you:* all you works praise the Lord and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: Rejoice and sing, Isaiah,* the Virgin has conceived and bears a son, Emmanuel,* God and man, his name the Dayspring;* we magnify him and we call the Virgin blessed. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Fallen man, Lord Christ, you assumed; wholly joined to him in a virginal womb, sin alone excepted, wholly you have freed him from corruption by your pure sufferings. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your pure and life-giving side, Lord Christ, was emptied of the blood which flowed from God, and sacrifice to idols ceased; and all we of the earth bring to you the sacrifice of praise. Most holy Theotokos, saves us! Not God bodiless, nor yet mere man, the pure and honourable Maid bore to us, but perfect man and perfect God, in very truth; we magnify him, together with the Father and the Spirit. Irmos: It is impossible for mankind to see God* upon Whom the orders of Angels dare not gaze;* but through you, O all-pure one, did the Word Incarnate become a man* and with the Heavenly Hosts we magnify Him and we call you blessed. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Christ has set before us as a path to exaltation and an image of salvation, the humility of the Publican: which, let us strive after by rejecting disdainful pride and gaining God’s mercy through humble-mindedness. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Let us cast away pride and learn the righteousness of the humble-minded; let us not seek to justify ourselves, but rather let us abhor the delusion of vainglory, and with the Publican let us pray to God. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Let us offer the Creator entreaties for mercy, as did the Publican,. Let us avoid the ungrateful prayers of the Pharisee and the boastful words with which he judged his neighbour, that we may gain God’s mercy and light. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. Weighed down by a great multitude of sins, I have surpassed the Publican in an excess of evil, having embraced the self-adulating madness of the Pharisee, wherefore I am utterly devoid of all that is good: O Lord, spare me. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me. O Lord, grant blessedness to those who for Your sake are poor in spirit, and who follow Your teachings, bringing to You a contrite heart. Receive and save them who worship You. Glory… May we never pray to You as did the Pharisee, may we enter the Temple justified by sighing and tears, with a heart that is broken and humbled, laying aside the heavy yoke of sin and thus be cleansed. Now… Grant us to hymn, glorify, and bless you, to worthily honour you, O most pure one; glorifying your birth-giving, O only-blessed one, for you are the praise of Orthodox Christians, and their divinely-acceptable intercessor before God Katavasia: Let every mortal born on earth, radiant with light, in spirit leap for joy;* and let the host of the angelic powers celebrate and honour the holy feast of the Mother of God,* and let them cry aloud:* Rejoice! O Theotokos, pure Ever-Virgin. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light Christ our Way and our Life,* after His resurrection from the dead,* accompanied Luke and Cleopas,* who had recognized Him at Emmaus in the breaking of the bread.* Their hearts and souls were inflamed as He spoke to them on the way,* explaining to them all the Scriptures that pertained to Him.* Let us, therefore, shout with them, saying:* Truly, the Lord is risen and has appeared to Peter. Glory… Let us flee from the wicked boasting of the Pharisee,* and learn the noble humility of the Publican,* that we may be exalted and cry aloud with him to God:* Be merciful to You servants, O Christ our Saviour,* Who was willingly born from a Virgin,* who has endured the Cross and with Yourself raised up the world* by Your divine power. Now… Inspired by the Spirit, the Elder Simeon came to the Temple.* He received in his arms the Master of the Law and cried out: O Lord, release your servant from the bonds of the flesh* according to your word, in peace;* because my eyes have seen your revelation,* who is a light to the Gentiles and the salvation of Israel. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 5 You came forth from the grave, O Lord, which had been sealed by the transgressors of the law,* just as You were born of the Theotokos.* For the bodiless angels did not know how You were incarnate.* Likewise, the guardian soldiers did not see the moment of your Resurrection;* for these two marvels were concealed from the curious minds* but were revealed to those who worshiped the mystery in faith.* Therefore, grant joy and great mercy to us who offer You praise. O Lord, You demolished the gates of everlasting damnation,* and You broke asunder the chains of the grave.* You rose from the tomb leaving your wrappings in the grave* in testimony of your three-day burial;* and leaving the guards watching at the tomb,* You preceded your disciples into Galilee.* Great is your mercy, O Lord whom the whole world cannot contain.* O Saviour, have mercy upon us. O Lord, who suffered for us,* the women hastened to your tomb to behold You.* When they arrived, they saw an angel sitting on the stone of the grave.* He said to them: The Lord is risen!* Go and tell the disciples that the Saviour of our souls is risen from the dead. O Lord and Saviour,* You came into the midst of your disciples though the doors were closed* just as You came out of the sealed tomb,* showing the sufferings of the flesh which You accepted;* for You submitted to suffering patiently since You are of the seed of David.* But since You are the Son of God, You saved the world.* Great is your mercy, O Lord whom the whole world cannot contain.* O Saviour, have mercy on us. In fulfilment of the Law,* the Lover of Mankind now is brought to the Temple.* Simeon takes Him in his aged arms and cries out:* Now let me depart to the blessedness of the world to come;* for I have beheld on this day, clothed in mortal flesh,* the One who is Lord of life and Master of death. In fulfilment of the Law,* the Lover of Mankind now is brought to the Temple.* Simeon takes Him in his aged arms and cries out:* Now let me depart to the blessedness of the world to come;* for I have beheld on this day, clothed in mortal flesh,* the One who is Lord of life and Master of death. As a light of revelation to the Gentiles,* You manifested yourself, O Lord.* The Sun of Justice sits upon a light cloud.* You fulfilled the shadow of the Law* and showed the beginning of the new grace.* Therefore, beholding You, Simeon cried out:* Release me from corruption, for I have seen You today. When You became incarnate as You willed,* You did not separate yourself from the bosom of the Father.* You uphold the whole world with your hand,* yet You were held in the arms of the ever-Virgin,* and You were handed over to the arms of Simeon, the servant of God.* Therefore, he cried out with joy:* Now You may dismiss your servant in peace, O Lord, for I have seen You. Tone 8, Glory… O Lord, You have condemned the Pharisee* who justified himself by boasting of his works,* and You have justified the Publican who humbled himself and with cries of sorrow begged for mercy.* For You rejected proud-minded thoughts, but do not despise a contrite heart.* Therefore humbled we fall down before You who have suffered for our sake:** Grant us forgiveness and great mercy. 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 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 1: Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 3: Let us bring sighs of sorrow to the Lord as did the Publican* and approach the Master as sinners,* for He desires salvation for everyone.* He grants forgiveness to all who repent.* For as God, the One-who-is, co-eternal with the Father, He became flesh for us. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 1: By Your birth, You sanctified a virgin womb* and fittingly blessed the hands of Simeon.* You have come also now and saved us, O Christ our God;* give peace to Your community in time of war,* and strengthen its rulers, whom You love,* for You alone,* are the Lover of mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 You, O Lord, will guard us and will keep us* from this generation and for ever. verse: Save me, O Lord, for there is no longer left a just man. (Psalm 11:8,2) Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord,* and my spirit has rejoiced in God, My Saviour. Epistle 2 Timothy 3:10-15 Alleluia, Tone 5 verse: Your mercies, O Lord, I will sing for ever; from generation to generation I will announce Your truth with my mouth. verse: For You have said: Mercy shall be built up for ever; in the heavens Your truth shall be prepared. (Psalm 88:2,3) verse: Now, O Master, You dismiss Your servant in peace according to Your word. (Luke 2:29) Gospel Luke 18:10-14 Hymn to the Mother of God O God-bearing Virgin, hope of Christians, protect and guard and save all those who put their trust in you. and the Irmos, Tone 3: In the law, the shadow, and the scriptures, we the faithful see a figure: every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God. Therefore do we magnify the first-born Word and Son of the Father who is without beginning, the first-born Child of a Mother who had not known man. Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* I will take the chalice of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 116:13):

Feb 8, 2025 - 🕃 The Holy Great-Martyr Theodore the General; The Holy Prophet Zechariah.

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 8, 2025 Post-feast of the Encounter. Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. You were shown to be by the Holy Spirit a courageous athlete, an invincible warrior,* having cast down the adversary with the wisdom of your words, O wise one,* and the enduring testimony of your deeds.* You have received the crown of victory* and have been joined to the choirs on high,* O great martyr Theodore. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You were shown to be a pillar of godly piety, O you that are most rich;* for, abhorring the temples of the impious,* you were brought as a most perfect lamb and a right acceptable sacrifice,* to Him that was unblameably sacrificed for your sake,* who has glorified your holy memory, and has given you to them that are in the world* as a treasury of miracles, O Theodore. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Lifted up upon a cross, your flesh lacerated, wounded with sharp arrows,* tormented by all the crafty art of torture, and beheaded by the sword,* you were shown to be steadfast and invincible* through the power of Him that was nailed to the Cross,* O Theodore, glory of the martyrs. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Possessed of a life equal to that of the angels,* you plainly conversed with angels, O divinely manifest one,* illumining your mind with things that pass understanding:* the purity of wondrous images, the revelation of great mysteries,* prophetic proclamation, and spiritual renewal.* Pray that our souls be saved. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You were shown to be an earthly angel, having, while on earth, heavenly companions,* for you were a beholder of heavenly visions,* a noetic beacon, and a radiant light, a fruitful olive tree, as the Psalm says, which in godly fashion pours forth oil upon the pious.* Pray that our souls be saved. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Enjoying the longed-for deification,* clearly partaking of everlasting delight, and beholding ineffable glory,* adorned with crowns of comeliness, as a most true prophet of God* pray in behalf of them that earnestly hymn you, O you that are pleasing to God,* that our souls be saved. Tone 4, Glory… 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. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 2 Open wide, O gates of heaven,* for Christ is borne into the temple as a Babe* by the Virgin Mother to God His Father. Now You may dismiss your servant, O Lord, according to your word, in peace. Christ, the coal of fire which appeared to the holy Isaiah,* now rests in the arms of the Theotokos as in a pair of tongs,* and He is given to the elder. A light of revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people, Israel. In fear and joy Symeon held the Master in his arms,* and asked for his release from life,* singing the praises of the Mother of God. Tone 5, Glory… Today hath the honoured memory of Christ’s athlete* shone forth more brightly than the morning star,* invisibly illumining the hearts of the faithful and dispelling gloom from their souls* by the activity of the grace of the Holy Spirit.* O you that love the martyrs, to him let us cry out:* Rejoice, O blessed Theodore,* for you have been revealed to the faithful as a God-given grace,* showering a multitude of miracles upon them that flee to you.* And unceasingly entreating Christ,* do not fail to obtain eternal blessings for them* that celebrate your holy memory with faith. Now… The Ancient of Days, having become a Babe in the flesh,* was borne into the temple by His Mother the Virgin,* fulfilling the ordinance of His own Law;* and, receiving Him, Symeon said:* Now let Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word;* for my eyes have seen Your salvation, O Holy One! Troparia Tone 4 Recruited by the truth, passion-bearer Theodore,* you proved yourself a capable general for heaven’s King.* You equipped yourself wisely with the arms of faith* and conquered the legions of demons!* Because you showed yourself a victorious athlete, we ever bless you in faith! Tone 2, Glory… Celebrating the memory of your prophet Zechariah, O Lord,* we beg You to save our souls through his intercession. Tone 1, Now… Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. Troparion, Tone 4: Recruited by the truth, passion-bearer Theodore,* you proved yourself a capable general for heaven’s King.* You equipped yourself wisely with the arms of faith* and conquered the legions of demons!* Because you showed yourself a victorious athlete, we ever bless you in faith! Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 2: You put on the whole armour of faith with courage* and took the Word of God as a spear in your hand.* You conquered the enemy, Theodore, great among martyrs!* Together with them, never cease to pray to Christ God for the sake of us all! Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 1: By Your birth, You sanctified a virgin womb* and fittingly blessed the hands of Simeon.* You have come also now and saved us, O Christ our God;* give peace to Your community in time of war,* and strengthen its rulers, whom You love,* for You alone,* are the Lover of mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord,* and my spirit has rejoiced in God, My Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46,48) Epistle 2 Timothy 2:1-10 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Now, O Master, You dismiss Your servant in peace according to Your word. verse: For my eyes have seen Your salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people, Israel. (Luke 2:29,32) Gospel Matthew 10:16-22 Hymn to the Mother of God O God-bearing Virgin, hope of Christians, protect and guard and save all those who put their trust in you. and the Irmos, Tone 3: In the law, the shadow, and the scriptures, we the faithful see a figure: every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God. Therefore do we magnify the first-born Word and Son of the Father who is without beginning, the first-born Child of a Mother who had not known man. Communion Hymn I will take the chalice of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 116:13):

Feb 7, 2025 - Our Venerable Father Parthenius, Bishop of Lampsacus; Blessed Hieromartyr Petro Verhun, presbyter.

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 7, 2025 Post-feast of the Encounter. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The prescribed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. In fulfilment of the Law, the Lover of mankind now is brought to the Temple.* Symeon takes Him in his aged arms and cries out:* Now let me depart to the blessedness of the world to come;* for I have beheld on this day, clothed in mortal flesh,* the One who is Lord of life and Master of death. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. As a light of revelation to the Gentiles, You manifested yourself, O Lord.* The Sun of Justice sits upon a light cloud.* You fulfilled the shadow of the Law and showed the beginning of the new grace.* Therefore, beholding You, Symeon cried out:* Release me from corruption, for I have seen You today. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. When You became incarnate as You willed,* You did not separate yourself from the bosom of the Father.* You uphold the whole world with your hand, yet You were held in the arms of the ever-Virgin,* and You were handed over to the arms of Symeon, the servant of God.* Therefore, he cried out with joy:* Now You may dismiss your servant in peace, O Lord, for I have seen You. 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. The namesake of virginity, the beacon of Lampsacus,* the radiant morning-star of miracles,* the great Parthenius calls us all together by his memorial,* that we who hymn Christ the Saviour* may keep spiritual festival. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Bearing God within yourself from childhood,* with the fire of your prayers, O all-blessed and wise one,* you burned up legions of the demons* and guided the flock of Lampsacus;* for, casting down the temples of the idols,* you renewed yourself for God. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The fish which was cast forth, a breathless thing which yet imparted life,* proclaimed your wonder, as did the fruit of the barren field and vineyard* and the generous rain promised to those who wept.* Wondrous are your works, O performer of sacred rites!* Pray that we be saved. Tone 6, Glory… Now… Invoked this day, O Christ God whose good pleasure it was* to lower Yourself to be held in the arms of the elder as in the chariot of the cherubim,* deliver from the tyranny of the passions us who hymn you,* and save us, as You love mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 6 Receive in your arms, O Symeon, the Creator of all things!* O elder, take up Christ, to whom the Virgin Maiden gave birth without seed,* to the joy of our race. Now You may dismiss your servant, O Lord, according to your word, in peace. Assembling, O people, let us hymn God, the Creator of the law,* before whom the multitudes of angels tremble, the only Benefactor and Bestower of the law,* for the salvation of our souls. A light of revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people, Israel. Now let Your servant depart in peace, O Master, as You said;* for I have beheld You, the pre-eternal Light of revelation for the nations and Israel, O Christ,* and of my bodily union. Tone 6, Glory… Now… Let the portal of heaven be opened today,* for the unoriginate Word of the Father,* receiving a beginning in time without being separated from His divinity,* is of His own will borne as a forty-day old babe* into the temple of the law by the Virgin;* and the elder receives Him in his arms, crying:* Let Your servant depart, O Master;* for my eyes have beheld Your salvation!* O Lord who has come into the world to save the race of man,* glory to You! Troparia Tone 4 O God of our fathers,* You always deal with us according to your everlasting compassion,* take not your mercy away from us;* but through the prayers of our fathers,* guide our lives along the ways of peace. Tone 1, Glory… Now… Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. Troparion, Tone 4: The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop, Parthenius.* Intercede with Christ, our God,* for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 2: O thunder of justice, spiritual trumpet,* planter of faith and destroyer of heresies,* servant of the Trinity, great hierarch Parthenius,* forever standing in the company of the angels,* pray without ceasing for all of us. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 1: By Your birth, You sanctified a virgin womb* and fittingly blessed the hands of Simeon.* You have come also now and saved us, O Christ our God;* give peace to Your community in time of war,* and strengthen its rulers, whom You love,* for You alone,* are the Lover of mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord,* and my spirit has rejoiced in God, My Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46,48) Epistle 2 Peter 1:1-10 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Now, O Master, You dismiss Your servant in peace according to Your word. verse: For my eyes have seen Your salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people, Israel. (Luke 2:29,32) Gospel Mark 13:1-8 Hymn to the Mother of God O God-bearing Virgin, hope of Christians, protect and guard and save all those who put their trust in you. and the Irmos, Tone 3: In the law, the shadow, and the scriptures, we the faithful see a figure: every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God. Therefore do we magnify the first-born Word and Son of the Father who is without beginning, the first-born Child of a Mother who had not known man. Communion Hymn I will take the chalice of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 116:13):

Feb 6, 2025 - Our Venerable Father Boucolus, Bishop of Smyrna; The Holy Hieromartyr Sylvanus, Bishop of Emessa and those with him.

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 6, 2025 Post-feast of the Encounter. VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The Creator of all things, and our God,* is being brought into the Temple by the virgin Mother.* The aged Simeon receives Him and cries out with joy:* Now You may dismiss your servant in peace,* according to your will, O good One. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Receiving from the Virgin the One begotten before all ages,* Simeon took Him in his arms and cried out:* I have seen the Saviour,* the Illumination of your glory to the ends of the earth.* Now You may dismiss your servant in peace, O good One,* since I have seen You today. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Near the end of his long life,* Simeon carried in his arms the Saviour* who was born for the salvation of all* Rejoicing, he cried out:* I have seen the Light of the Gentiles and the Glory of Israel.* Now You may dismiss your servant from here, O God,* according to your command. Tone 6 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You glistened with the light of sanctifying virtues, O priestly one.* You mystically placed the light on the lampstand of the divine Church.* You illuminate it by your sacred teachings, O Father. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. The Holy Spirit sanctified you, O priestly Bucolus.* Through you, O Godbearer,* He gives sanctity, enlightenment, and deliverance* to all those who approach through faith. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Preaching the utter goodness of our God,* you bless the afflicted, O wise one.* Since you are a very holy priest,* you lead the people to the Saviour through grace. Tone 5, Glory… Now… Search the Scriptures as Christ our God said in the Gospels;* for in them we find Him who was born and wrapped in swaddling clothes,* the One laid in a manger and fed upon milk,* who received circumcision and was carried by Simeon.* Not in fancy nor in imagination,* but in very truth has He appeared to the world.* Let us cry out to Him:* Glory to You, O pre-eternal God! Aposticha Tone 2 The immaculate and most pure Virgin* is carrying the Creator and Master* as an infant in her arms,* and she is entering the Temple today. Now You may dismiss your servant, O Lord, according to your word, in peace. O Simeon, receive the Lord of glory,* as it was made known to you by the Holy Spirit.* Behold, He now comes into the Temple. A light of revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people, Israel. My eyes have seen You, the Promised One.* Quickly release me, your servant,* O Gracious God and Lover of Mankind. Tone 5, Glory… Now… He who is ancient of days and young in the flesh* is being brought to the Temple by his virgin Mother.* He fulfils the promise of his own law.* Simeon receives Him and says:* Now You may dismiss your servant, according to your word, in peace,* for my eyes have seen your salvation, O Lord. Troparia Tone 4 The sincerity of your deeds has revealed you to your people* as a teacher of moderation,* a model of faith, and an example of virtue.* Therefore, you attained greatness through humility,* and wealth through poverty.* O Father and Archbishop Bucolus,** ask Christ our God to save our souls. Tone 1, Glory… Now… Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,** who grants is resurrection. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. Troparion, Tone 4: Having shared the way of life of the apostles,* and having become a successor to their thrones,* labouring you found the divinely inspired way to contemplation.* Therefore, forthrightly ministering the word of truth,* you shed your blood for the faith, O hieromartyr, Boucolus.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 4: Having piously lived among the hierarchs,* and having trod the path of suffering,* you extinguished the sacrifices to idols* and were a defender for your flock, O godly one.* Therefore, venerating you, we sincerely cry to you:* “Rescue us from dangers by your prayers, O our father, Boucolus. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 1: By Your birth, You sanctified a virgin womb* and fittingly blessed the hands of Simeon.* You have come also now and saved us, O Christ our God;* give peace to Your community in time of war,* and strengthen its rulers, whom You love,* for You alone,* are the Lover of mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord,* and my spirit has rejoiced in God, My Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46,48) Epistle 1 Peter 4:12-5:5 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Now, O Master, You dismiss Your servant in peace according to Your word. verse: For my eyes have seen Your salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people, Israel. (Luke 2:29,32) Gospel Mark 12:38-44 Hymn to the Mother of God O God-bearing Virgin, hope of Christians, protect and guard and save all those who put their trust in you. and the Irmos, Tone 3: In the law, the shadow, and the scriptures, we the faithful see a figure: every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God. Therefore do we magnify the first-born Word and Son of the Father who is without beginning, the first-born Child of a Mother who had not known man. Communion Hymn I will take the chalice of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 116:13):

Feb 5, 2025 - The Holy Martyr Agatha.

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 5, 2025 Post-feast of the Encounter. VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let us now celebrate the saving grace of the ineffable manifestation of God;* for Christ God, becoming immutably a child through the Virgin Maiden,* is now borne by His Mother to God the Father in the temple;* and Symeon, receiving Him in his arms, embraces Him. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You were seen by the prophets, O Jesus,* for of old they beheld You as far as they were able;* but now, O Word of God, of Your own will You have appeared in the flesh, through the Virgin Mary, to all the world* and have revealed Your salvation to all those descended from Adam,* in that You love mankind. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Christ who of old ordained the law of Mount Sinai,* fulfilling the provisions of the law now on Mount Sion* You have desired to be borne into the temple,* a babe in the flesh,* in the arms of the Theotokos, with the whole-burnt offerings;* and were given into the arms of Symeon. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You preserved your body uncorrupted for Christ thy Bridegroom,* adorned with the beauties of virginity, O Agatha, bride of God;* and, luminous with the splendours of martyrdom,* you have made your abode in the bridal chamber of God.* Wherefore, we celebrate your universal triumph,* glorifying the Saviour who ever glorifies you. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You endured the severing of your breasts,* the burning of fire and the laceration of your body, O glorious one,* gazing with the eyes of thy heart toward thine eternal rewards,* the blessedness which comes therefrom* and the imperishable crown, which has now been given you by Christ,* for whom you suffered, O much suffering athlete. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The uncontrollable raging of the savage fire you halted by your supplications,* O you of goodly renown,* and you saved the city which venerates your precious relics, O martyr,* from whence it receives rivers of healings through the divine Spirit.* For, suffering therein, you brought low the enemy* and received the crown of victory, O most lauded one. Tone 8, Glory… An all-glorious miracle took place during the martyrdom of the most glorious Agatha,* the martyr of Christ God, like that of Moses.* For, obtaining the law of the people, on the mountain* he received letters inscribed by God on tablets;* but here an angel from heaven, an intelligence venerable and acting freely,* brought an inscribed scroll to her grave,* showing forth honour from God* and deliverance for her native land. Now… He who is borne upon the cherubim and is hymned by the seraphim,* borne into the temple of God today in accordance with the law,* sits in the arms of the elder as on a throne,* and as God receives gifts from Joseph:* a pair of turtle-doves — the undefiled Church and the people newly-chosen from among the gentiles;* and two young pigeons — the beginning of the Old and the New.* And Symeon, finally receiving the fulfilment of the promise made to him* and blessing the Virgin Mary, the Theotokos,* foretold in imagery the sufferings she would endure* and asked from God deliverance, crying out:* “Now let me depart, O Master, as You told me before;* for I have seen You, the pre-eternal Light,* the Saviour and Lord of the Christian people!” Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 6 Receive in your arms, O Symeon, the Creator of all things!* O elder, take up Christ, to whom the Virgin Maiden gave birth without seed,* to the joy of our race. Now, O Master, You have kept Your promise; let Your servant go in peace. Assembling, O people, let us hymn God, the Creator of the law,* before whom the multitudes of angels tremble,* the only Benefactor and Bestower of the law,* for the salvation of our souls. A light to reveal You to the gentiles, and the glory of Your people, Israel! Now, O Master, let Your servant go in peace, as You said;* for I have beheld You, the pre-eternal Light of revelation for the nations and Israel, O Christ,* and of my bodily union. Tone 2, Glory… Now… Him Whom the ministers on high entreat with trembling* has Symeon now received in his material arms;* and he announced that God had united Himself to men.* And, seeing God as a heavenly man, transported from the things of the earth, he cried out with joy:* “O Lord who reveals the never-waning light to those in darkness,* glory be to You!” Troparia Tone 4 Your lamb Agatha, Jesus, calls out to You in a loud voice:* I love You, my Bridegroom,* and in seeking You I endure suffering.* In baptism I was crucified so that I might reign in You,* and died so that I might live with You.* Accept me as a pure sacrifice, for I have offered myself in love!* By her prayers, save our souls, since You are merciful! Tone 1 Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. Troparion, Tone 4: Your lamb Agatha, Jesus, calls out to You in a loud voice:* I love You, my Bridegroom,* and in seeking You I endure suffering.* In baptism I was crucified so that I might reign in You,* and died so that I might live with You.* Accept me as a pure sacrifice, for I have offered myself in love!* By her prayers, save our souls, since You are merciful! Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 4: May the Church cry out, robed today in a garment of precious porphyry,* made of the blood of the pure martyr Agatha:*Rejoice, Agatha, pride of Sicily! Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 1: By Your birth, You sanctified a virgin womb* and fittingly blessed the hands of Simeon.* You have come also now and saved us, O Christ our God;* give peace to Your community in time of war,* and strengthen its rulers, whom You love,* for You alone,* are the Lover of mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord,* and my spirit has rejoiced in God, My Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46,48) Epistle 1 Peter 4:1-11 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Now, O Master, You dismiss Your servant in peace according to Your word. verse: For my eyes have seen Your salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people, Israel. (Luke 2:29,32) Gospel Mark 12:28-37 Hymn to the Mother of God O God-bearing Virgin, hope of Christians, protect and guard and save all those who put their trust in you. and the Irmos, Tone 3: In the law, the shadow, and the scriptures, we the faithful see a figure: every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God. Therefore do we magnify the first-born Word and Son of the Father who is without beginning, the first-born Child of a Mother who had not known man. Communion Hymn I will take the chalice of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 116:13):

Feb 4, 2025 - Our Venerable Father Isidore of Pelusium.

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 4, 2025 Post-feast of the Encounter. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. He who loves mankind, fulfilling the law of the Scriptures,* is now born into the temple;* and the elder Symeon receives Him in his arms, crying:* Now You let me depart to Your blessedness,* for today I have seen clad in mortal flesh* He who has dominion over life* and mastery over death! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You showed Yourself to be the Light of revelation,* the Sun of righteousness seated upon a light cloud,* fulfilling the shadow of the law,* and revealing the beginning of the new grace.* Symeon, seeing You, cried out: Set me free of corruption,* for I have seen You today! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Without being separated from the bosom of the Father in Your divinity,* incarnate, as You so willed,* You were held in the embrace of the ever-Virgin,* and were given into the arms of Symeon the God-receiver,* O You who hold all things in Your hands.* He cried aloud with joy:* Now You let me, Your servant, depart in peace,* for I have seen You, O Master! Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Elevating yourself to God by your vision and activity,* you perfected your life, O most wise one;* and, setting the ascent of vision as your activity,* you loved the ultimate Desire, O wise one.* And harbouring desire for Him within yourself,* you have now been counted worthy of a blessed end* and the radiance of the threefold Sun. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. With the flood of grace and the outpouring of your words* you watered all the divinely wise;* and, placing your mouth to the cup of the uttermost wisdom,* you drew forth in abundance as from a well-spring,* and have shed beams of doctrines in every direction,* sending forth epistles and teaching* and instructing, O right wondrous one. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. By abstinence you mortified the wisdom of the flesh,* arraying yourself in life-bearing mortality;* and, manifestly expanding the state of your soul, O venerable one,* you made yourself a receptacle of the gifts of the Spirit* and became the habitation of divinely inspired doctrines* and dwelling-place of wisdom which passes understanding. Tone 2, Glory… Now… Today Symeon receives in his arms the Lord of glory,* whom Moses beheld before in the darkness, and who gave him the tablets on Mount Sinai.* He is the Creator of the law, who speaks in the prophets.* He it is who fills all with awe, whom David proclaims,* and has great and rich mercy. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 2 Receive, O Symeon, the Lord of glory* as you were told by the Holy Spirit.* For, lo! He is come. Now You may dismiss your servant, O Lord, according to your word, in peace. Bearing the Creator and Master as a Babe in her arms,* the pure and all-pure Virgin* enters the temple. A light of revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people, Israel. Great and awesome and strange is the mystery of God’s dispensation:* He who embraces all things and creates infants* is born in arms as a Babe. Glory… Now… The sacred Virgin brought the Sacred One to the high priest in the temple,* and Symeon, stretching forth his hands,* received Him, rejoicing, and cried out:* Now let Your servant depart in peace, O Lord, according to Your word! Troparia Tone 8 The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O father,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh, which passes,* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* and so, O Venerable Isidore,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Tone 1, Glory… Now… Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. Troparion, Tone 8: The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O father,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh, which passes,* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* and so, O Venerable Isidore,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 2: Divinely armed with purity of spirit* and mightily wielding the lance of unceasing prayers,* you overcame the powers of demons,* Venerable Isidore, pray without ceasing for all of us.Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 1: By Your birth, You sanctified a virgin womb* and fittingly blessed the hands of Simeon.* You have come also now and saved us, O Christ our God;* give peace to Your community in time of war,* and strengthen its rulers, whom You love,* for You alone,* are the Lover of mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord,* and my spirit has rejoiced in God, My Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46,48) Epistle 1 Peter 3:10-22 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Now, O Master, You dismiss Your servant in peace according to Your word. verse: For my eyes have seen Your salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people, Israel. (Luke 2:29,32) Gospel Mark 12:18-27 Hymn to the Mother of God O God-bearing Virgin, hope of Christians, protect and guard and save all those who put their trust in you. and the Irmos, Tone 3: In the law, the shadow, and the scriptures, we the faithful see a figure: every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God. Therefore do we magnify the first-born Word and Son of the Father who is without beginning, the first-born Child of a Mother who had not known man. Communion Hymn I will take the chalice of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 116:13):

Feb 3, 2025 - 🕃 The Holy and Just Simeon who received God and Anna, Prophetess.

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 3, 2025 Post-feast of the Enounter. Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms for this evening. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The Creator of all things, and our God,* is being brought into the Temple by the virgin Mother.* The aged Simeon receives Him and cries out with joy:* Now You may dismiss your servant in peace,* according to your will, O good One. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Receiving from the Virgin the One begotten before all ages,* Simeon took Him in his arms and cried out:* I have seen the Saviour,* the Illumination of your glory to the ends of the earth.* Now You may dismiss your servant in peace, O good One,* since I have seen You today. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Near the end of his long life,* Simeon carried in his arms the Saviour* who was born for the salvation of all.* Rejoicing, he cried out:* I have seen the Light of the Gentiles and the Glory of Israel.* Now You may dismiss your servant from here, O God,* according to your command. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You are righteous, perfected, and glorified beyond everyone,* O God-inspired Simeon.* You took into your hands the incarnate and only perfect God.* He came into the world in order to justify it,* and that you might be released from the body which cried out to Him:* Now You may dismiss your servant in peace, O Lover of Mankind,* since I have seen You today. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. While remaining young in spirit, you became old in body, O Simeon.* You received the promise not to see death until you had seen the young infant.* He was of God the Father before all ages,* yet He humbled himself through the flesh.* You beheld Him and danced for joy* and asked for release from the flesh.* Then you joyfully passed to the heavenly abode. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The God-inspired Anna and the wealthy Simeon shone with prophecy.* They manifested themselves as spotless in the Law.* They saw the Giver of the Law revealing himself* as an infant according to our nature.* Therefore, let us joyfully celebrate today* and glorify Christ, the Lover of Mankind. Tone 5, Glory… Now… He who is ancient of days and young in the flesh* is being brought to the Temple by his virgin Mother.* He fulfils the promise of his own law.* Simeon receives Him and says:* Now You may dismiss your servant, according to your word, in peace,* for my eyes have seen your salvation, O Lord. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 1 Now we are celebrating the saving grace* of the ineffable manifestation of God* because Christ our God became man without change from the Virgin Maiden.* He is now being brought into the Temple* and offered to God the Father by his mother.* Simeon receives Him and takes Him into his arms. Now You may dismiss your servant, O Lord, according to your word, in peace. Of old You were seen in the prophets, O Jesus,* as much as it was possible to see You.* But now, O Word of God, by your will,* You manifest yourself to the whole world.* O Christ, You took flesh from the Virgin Mary.* Since You are the Lover of Mankind,* You manifested your salvation to all those who come from Adam. A light of revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people, Israel. Of old You established the Law on Mount Sinai.* Now in the city of Sion* You fulfil the prescriptions of the Law.* You wished to be brought into the Temple as an infant in the flesh.* O Christ, You were carried in the arms of the Theotokos,* in order to be an offering in the arms of Simeon. Tone 1, Glory… Now… He, who once gave the Law to Moses on Sinai,* today submits himself to the prescriptions of the Law.* In his compassion He has become like us for our sakes.* Now the pure God, as a holy infant having opened a pure womb,* is being offered as God to himself.* He is freeing us from the curse of the Law* and granting light to our souls. Troparia Tone 4 The elderly Simeon is filled with happiness today,* receiving the eternal God as an infant into his arms.* He begs to be released from the bonds of the flesh,* for he cries: My eyes have seen* Your salvation for the world. Tone 1, Glory... Now... Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. Troparion, Tone 4: The elderly Simeon is filled with happiness today,* receiving the eternal God as an infant into his arms.* He begs to be released from the bonds of the flesh,* for he cries: My eyes have seen* Your salvation for the world. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 4: The elderly Simeon prayed to be released* from the bonds of this passing life.* He received the Creator and Lord of all into his arms.* He found release and departed to life everlasting. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 1: By Your birth, You sanctified a virgin womb* and fittingly blessed the hands of Simeon.* You have come also now and saved us, O Christ our God;* give peace to Your community in time of war,* and strengthen its rulers, whom You love,* for You alone,* are the Lover of mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord,* and my spirit has rejoiced in God, My Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him. Epistle Hebrews 9:11-14 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Now, O Master, You dismiss Your servant in peace according to Your word. verse: For my eyes have seen Your salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people, Israel. (Luke 2:29,32) verse: Moses and Aaron are among His priests and Samuel among those who call upon His name. (Psalm 96:11) Gospel Luke 2:25-38 Hymn to the Mother of God O God-bearing Virgin, hope of Christians, protect and guard and save all those who put their trust in you. and the Irmos, Tone 3: In the law, the shadow, and the scriptures, we the faithful see a figure: every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God. Therefore do we magnify the first-born Word and Son of the Father who is without beginning, the first-born Child of a Mother who had not known man. Communion Hymn I will take the chalice of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord (Psalm 116:13).* The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear (Psalm 111:6). Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Feb 2, 2025 - Sunday of Zacchaeus; Octoechos Tone 4; 🕀 The Encounter of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 2, 2025 Feast of our Lord. Holy Day of obligation. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 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. 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! 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. Let Your 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. Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O Simeon, tell us whom you are joyfully carrying into the Temple.* To whom are you saying:* Now You may dismiss Your servant, O Lord,* because my eyes have seen my Saviour.* He is the child born of the Virgin.* He is the Word and God of God.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and saved the world,* to You we bow in worship. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O Simeon, tell us whom you are joyfully carrying into the Temple.* To whom are you saying:* Now You may dismiss Your servant, O Lord,* because my eyes have seen my Saviour.* He is the child born of the Virgin.* He is the Word and God of God.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and saved the world,* to You we bow in worship. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Simeon, now receive the One* Whom Moses the lawgiver had foreseen through the cloud on Sinai.* He has become a child and submits Himself to the Law.* This is He who spoke through the Law and whom the prophets foretold.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and saved the world,* to You we bow in worship. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O Simeon, now receive the One* Whom Moses the lawgiver had foreseen through the cloud on Sinai.* He has become a child and submits Himself to the Law.* This is He who spoke through the Law and whom the prophets foretold.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and saved the world,* to You we bow in worship. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O faithful, come let us welcome Christ* and receive Him with hymns of praise and glory.* He is the salvation Simeon has seen.* He is the One whom David foretold* and of whom the prophets have spoken.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and inspired the Law,* to You we bow in worship. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O faithful, come let us welcome Christ* and receive Him with hymns of praise and glory.* He is the salvation Simeon has seen.* He is the One whom David foretold* and of whom the prophets have spoken.* O Lord, who for our sake was incarnate and inspired the Law,* to You we bow in worship. Tone 6, Glory… Now… Today the gates of heaven swing open,* for the Word of the Father who has no beginning* has received beginning in time* without any loss to His divinity.* As a child of forty days He is offered by a virgin Mother* in the Temple according to the Law.* The Elder Simeon receives Him in his arms and cries out:* Dismiss me, O Master, for my eyes have seen Your salvation;* O Lord, who came into the world to save us, glory to You! 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. Readings (1) Exodus 13:1-3, 11-12, 14-16; (2) Isaiah 6:1-12; (3) Isaiah 19:1-5, 12, 19-21 At the Lytia Tone 1 The Ancient of Days, who of old gave the Law to Moses on Sinai* appears this day as an infant.* The Creator of the Law fulfils the Law.* He is brought into the Temple* and is given over to the Elder.* The just Simeon receives Him,* and beholding the fulfilment of the divine promise, joyfully cries out:* My eyes have seen the mystery hidden from all eternity.* It has been revealed in these latter days.* The Light has radiated the darkness of unbelieving Gentiles* and gives glory to the newly chosen Israel.* Therefore, let Your servant depart from the bonds of this flesh* to the wondrous unending life that knows no age.* And we pray You to grant great mercy to the world. He, who once gave the Law to Moses on Sinai,* today submits Himself to the prescriptions of the Law.* In His compassion He has become like us for our sakes.* Now the pure God, as a holy infant having opened a pure womb,* is being offered as God to Himself.* He is freeing us from the curse of the Law* and granting light to our souls. Tone 2 Simeon now receives below in his earthly arms* the One whom the ministers at the liturgy on high entreat with trembling,* and who was prophesied to become incarnate.* Seeing the heavenly God as mortal man,* he is ready to withdraw from earthly things and joyfully cries out:* Glory to You, O Lord, the unsetting Light,* that uncovers those in darkness. Today Simeon takes in his arms the Lord of Glory,* the One whom Moses formerly saw in the darkness* when he received the tablets of the Law on Mount Sinai.* This is He who speaks through the prophets;* He is the Creator of the Law.* This is He whom David announced.* He is awesome to all, yet He has great and abundant mercy. The pure Virgin brings the Sacred One* into the sanctuary to the holy priest.* Simeon extends his hands,* receives Him joyously in his arms, and cries out:* O Master, now You let Your servant go in peace,* according to Your word, O Lord. The Creator of heaven and earth is carried today* in the arms of the Elder Simeon.* Inspired by the Holy Spirit, he cried out:* Now I am set free, for I have beheld my Saviour. Today, Simeon the Elder enters the Temple, rejoicing in spirit,* to receive in his arms the One who gave the Law to Moses,* the One who fulfils the Law in Himself.* For Moses was counted worthy to see God,* although in darkness and sounds that were not clear;* and with covered face he rebuked the unbelieving people.* But Simeon carried the pre-eternal Word of the father in bodily form,* and he revealed the Light of the Gentiles, the Cross, and the Resurrection.* Anna was shown to be a prophetess,* announcing the Saviour and Deliverer of Israel.* Unto Him let us cry aloud:* Through the Theotokos have mercy on us, O Christ our God. Tone 4 Today, the holy Mother who is higher than any temple* has herself come into the Temple* to show the world the Creator and Giver of the Law.* Simeon the Elder receives Him in his arms;* he venerates Him and cries aloud:* Now let Your servant depart in peace,* for I have seen You, the Saviour of our souls. Tone 5, Glory… Search the Scriptures as Christ our God said in the Gospels;* for in them we find Him who was born and wrapped in swaddling clothes,* the One laid in a manger and fed upon milk,* who received circumcision and was carried by Simeon.* Not in fancy or imagination,* but in very truth has He appeared to the world.* Let us cry out to Him:* Glory to You, O pre-eternal God! Now… He Who is Ancient of Days and young in the flesh* is being brought into the Temple by His virgin Mother.* He fulfils the promise of His own Law.* Simeon receives Him and says:* Now You may let Your servant go in peace,* for my eyes have seen Your salvation, O Lord. Aposticha Tone 4 In being lifted upon the cross, O Lord,* You abolished the curse which we had inherited from our fathers.* By going down into Hades,* You freed from eternal captivity those imprisoned there,* and granted incorruption to mankind.* 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. Tone 8, Glory… Now… He who rides on the Cherubim and is praised by the Seraphim* is now being brought into the holy Temple according to the Law.* He is sitting in the arms of an old man as though upon a throne.* From Joseph He receives God-pleasing gifts, a pair of turtle doves,* and from the newly-chosen people of the Gentiles, and undefiled Church.* the two doves indicate that He is the head both of the Old and New Testaments.* As for Simeon, when he saw what had been revealed come to pass,* he received the child and blessed the virgin Mother of God,* pointing out to her the sufferings that she would bear.* He asked the Lord to be released from life, saying:* Now You may dismiss me, O Lord, as You have promised;* for my eyes have seen You, the eternal Light,* the Lord and Saviour of all Christian people. Troparion Tone 1 Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. (3) GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 4 Troparia, Tone 1 Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. (2) Glory... Now... Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 Looking into the entrance of the tomb,* the Myrrh-bearing women were unable to endure the bright radiance of the Angel,* trembling in awe they said;* How is it that He who has opened Paradise to the Thief hath been stolen?* How is it that He who before His passion proclaimed His Arising has been raised?* Truly Christ God has arisen, granting those in Hades life and resurrection. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. Mortal men laid in a new tomb* the One who through a word established the ends of earth,* for You, O Saviour, willingly endured the Cross,* whereby You conquered the adversary, and despoiled death,* for which cause all those in Hades extol Your life-giving Arising saying* Christ, the giver of life, has arisen and abides to the ages. Glory… Now… As he contemplated that which was beyond nature* Joseph was struck with wonder, O Theotokos, at you conception without seed.* He contemplated the mysterious dew upon the fleece,* the bush unburnt by fire,* Aaron’s rod which budded.* Thus your Betrothed and guardian bore witness and cried to the priests saying:* A Virgin bears a child,* and after child-birth remains yet a virgin. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 O Saviour, You arose from Hades as immortal,* raising the world together with You by Your might, O Christ our God.* With strength You have overthrown the dominion of death,* revealing the Resurrection to all, O Merciful one.* Wherefore we also glorify You, O only Lover of mankind. I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. Gabriel radiant in white vestments descended from the heights above,* and approaching the rock upon which the Rock of life was lying,* cried to the weeping women saying:* Cease your cries of lamentation;* for you have now obtained merciful compassion.* Take courage, for the One you seek is truly risen.* Therefore, cry to the Apostles telling them that the Lord has arisen,* to worship the risen One;* and having received gladness, to take courage, together with Eve. Glory… Now… All the choirs of Angels were struck with wonder, O Pure Virgin,* at the awesome mystery of your conception.* How can the One who holds all things in place with only a nod,* now be held in your arms as a man?* How can the Eternal accept a beginning?* How can the One who nourishes everything that has breath by His ineffable goodness,* be suckled at your breast?* And upon seeing these things, with hymns they glorify you* as truly the Mother of God. Polyeleos Exaltation We extol You,* O Christ the Giver of Life,* and we venerate your most pure Mother,* who according to the Law brought You this day into the Temple of the Lord. verse: The Lord is in His holy temple, the Lord whose throne is in heaven. verse: My heart overflows with noble words. To the King I must speak the song I have made. verse: May this song make your name forever remembered. May the peoples praise you from age to age. verse: Holiness is fitting to Your house, O Lord, until the end of time. Glory… Now… Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to You, O God! (3) Evoglitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 4 The Myrrh-bearing women hastened to proclaim to the Apostles* the news of Your wondrous Rising, O Christ:* that as God You have arisen,* granting the world great mercy. Sessional Hymn I, Tone 1 Let the heavenly hosts marvel at this mystery,* and let those on earth praise in song • as we behold the ineffable condescension of God.* He is now embraced in aged arms,* the One before whom the powers of heaven tremble,* the One who alone loves all. Glory... The One who is with the Father upon the holy throne* has come to earth and has been born of a Virgin.* The One, whose years are incomprehensible, becomes a babe.* Simeon received Him in his arms and cried out, rejoicing:* Now, O merciful Lord, let me depart in peace,* for You have brought joy to Your servant. Tone 4, Now... The Ancient of Days becomes a child for my sake.* The most holy God is purified* in order to confirm the reality of the human flesh* which He received from the Virgin.* Simeon, upon beholding this mystery,* acknowledged Him as God revealed in the flesh.* The Elder greeted Him as Life,* and, rejoicing, cried out in his old age:* Let me depart, for I have seen You, the Life of all. Gradual Hymns, Tone 4 Antiphon 1 From my youth do many passions war against me;* but do You Yourself defend* and save me, O my Saviour. You haters of Sion shall be shamed by the Lord;* for like grass, by the fire* shall you be withered. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit, every soul is quickened,* and, through cleansing, is exalted* and made radiant* by the Triple Unity in a hidden sacred manner. Antiphon 2 From the depths of my soul* I have cried to You fervently, O Lord;* let Your divine ears be attentive to me. Everyone who has set their hope in the Lord,* is higher than all those* who mourn. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit* the streams of grace swell up;* watering all creation* engendering life. Antiphon 3 Let my heart be raised to You, O Lord;* and let none of the pleasures of the world lure me* to weakness. As one that has tender love for one’s mother;* so should we have even more fervent love* for the Lord. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit comes an abundance of divine knowledge,* contemplation and wisdom;* for by Him the Word unveils* all the Father’s teachings. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 May this song make your name forever remembered. May the people praise You from age to age. verse: My heart overflows with noble words. To the King I must speak the song I have made. Let Everything that has Breath, Tone 4 Gospel Luke 2:25-32 After Psalm 50 Tone 6, Glory… Through the prayers of the Theotokos,* O merciful Lord,* cleanse me from the multitude of my transgressions. Now… Through the prayers of the Theotokos,* O merciful Lord,* cleanse me from the multitude of my transgressions. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your loving kindness, according to the multitude of Your tender mercies blot out my transgressions Today the gates of heaven swing open,* for the Word of the Father who has no beginning* has received beginning in time* without any loss to His divinity.* As a child of forty days He is offered by a virgin Mother* in the Temple according to the Law.* The Elder Simeon receives Him in his arms and cries out:* Dismiss me, O Master, for my eyes have seen your salvation;* O Lord, who came into the world to save us, glory to You! Canon, Tone 4 Ode 1 Irmos: Through the Red Sea, as on the dry land,* old Israel passed on with unmoistened foot;* crosswise, in the wilderness, Moses held up his arms* and they routed Amalek’s might. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As good and all-powerful, O Lord, you were lifted up on the immaculate tree of your cross, healing by the tree our utter destruction, setting right our defection. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. In your body in the tomb, as God with your soul in Hell, with the Thief in Paradise, you were yet, O Christ, on the throne with the Father and the Spirit, all things filling, and infinite. Most holy Theotokos, save us! You conceived the Son of God without seed, by the Father’s purpose, from the divine Spirit; you bore in flesh the one from the Father without mother: through us, out of you, without father. Irmos: The sun shed its rays upon dry land In the middle of the sea. The water on both sides stood firm as a wall while Israel walked across. They sang this hymn pleasing to God: Let us praise the Lord, for He has been greatly glorified. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O clouds, send down rain; for Christ the Sun, riding upon a swift cloud, is offered by pure hands as an infant into the Temple. Therefore, let us, the faithful, sing out: Let us praise the Lord, for He has been greatly glorified. Most holy Theotokos, save us! May the feeble hands of Simeon be strengthened, and his weakened legs be made firm so that he may run quickly to meet Christ. Let us join with the heavenly choirs and sing praise to the Lord, for He has been greatly glorified. Glory… Now… Sing out, O heavens, and rejoice, O earth; for Christ the Creator, who existed from all eternity as one of the Trinity, is now offered in the Temple to God the Father as a newborn infant by is virgin Mother. Let us praise the Lord, for He has been greatly glorified. Katavasia: The sun shed its rays upon dry land In the middle of the sea. The water on both sides stood firm as a wall while Israel walked across. They sang this hymn pleasing to God: Let us praise the Lord, for He has been greatly glorified. Ode 3 Irmos: Your Church, O Christ, makes merry in you, crying aloud:* You are my strength, O Lord, my refuge, my firm foundation. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The tree of life, the true and intellectual vine, hangs upon the cross pouring forth to all the elixir of life. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As a great one and fearful, demolishing utterly the insolence of Hell, as God incorruptible, now you have risen in the flesh. Most holy Theotokos, save us! You only, O Mother of God, are the friend who procures the good things beyond nature for those upon earth and therefore we bring to you our “Hail.” Irmos: O Lord, the solid rock of those that place their trust in You, strengthen the Church which You have purchased with your precious blood. Most holy Theotokos, save us! The only-begotten of the Father before all ages comes forth from the all-pure Virgin as a firstborn child, and He extends his hands to Adam. Most holy Theotokos, save us! God the Word appeared as a child to raise up Adam from his childishness into which he had fallen through deception. Glory… Now… Having become an infant without undergoing any change, the Creator has refashioned into his divinity our nature which was taken from the earth and will return to it again. Katavasia: O Lord, the solid rock of those that place their trust in You, strengthen the Church which You have purchased with your precious blood. Kontakion, Tone 1 By Your birth, You sanctified a virgin womb* and fittingly blessed the hands of Simeon.* You have come also now and saved us, O Christ our God;* give peace to Your community in time of war,* and strengthen its rulers, whom You love,* for You alone,* are the Lover of mankind. Ikos Let us run to meet the Theotokos, desiring to behold her Son whom she offered to Simeon. The angelic hosts were filled with awe as they beheld Him from their dwelling place and said: Now we see amazing and extraordinary wonders beyond comprehension and expression. The One who created Adam is carried as babe. The One who cannot be contained is held in the arms of the Elder. The One who is infinite in the bosom of the Father voluntarily takes on flesh in a finite manner, for He alone loves all people. Ode 4 Irmos: Seeing you the Sun of Righteousness* lifted high on the cross,* with good reason your Church stood still in her course and exclaimed:* Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You went up on the Cross, to the Passion of your pure flesh worn of your own will, thus healing my passions. Therefore we cry to you: Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Lord, death tasted of your life-giving, sinless flesh and deservedly was slain. But we cry to you: Glory to your power, O Lord. Most holy Theotokos, save us! You bore a child, O Virgin, without a man, and after the birth you were discerned as still a virgin; therefore in faith unwavering we cry in never silent voices: Hail to you, our Lady. Irmos: O Christ, Your virtue has filled the heavens. You were born from an all-pure Mother, the Ark of Your majesty, and You now enter the Temple of your glory as an infant in arms; and the entire universe is filled with Your glory. Most holy Theotokos, save us! The Theotokos spoke out: O Simeon, having witnessed mysteries beyond expression, rejoice and take in your arms Christ the Word who has become an infant. This mystery was foretold to you by the Holy Spirit. Now sing out to Him: The entire universe is filled with Your glory. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Receive with joy, O Simeon, the infant Christ was is the consolation of Israel and the One for whom you hoped. He is the Maker and Master of the Law who Himself fulfils it. Cry out to Him: The entire universe is filled with Your glory. Glory… Now… Simeon marvelled to behold in the flesh, as an infant, the Word who is without beginning, the Source of all creation who is carried by the Virgin as on the throne of the Cherubim. The Elder cried out to Him: The entire universe is filled with Your glory. Katavasia: O Christ, Your virtue has filled the heavens. You were born from an all-pure Mother, the Ark of Your majesty, and You now enter the Temple of your glory as an infant in arms; and the entire universe is filled with Your glory. Ode 5 Irmos: Lord, my light, you have come into the world;* O holy light, turn from the darkness of ignorance all who sing to you in faith. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. In compassion, O Lord, you came down to the earth; hanging upon the tree you raised up the fallen nature of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Christ, you bore yourself the reproach of my sins; you loosed the pangs of death, Compassionate, in your holy resurrection. Most holy Theotokos, save us! We thrust you forward as an unbreakable shield in face of our enemies; we have gained you, Bride of God, as anchor and hope of our salvation. Irmos: In a vision Isaiah saw the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne, surrounded by angels, and he cried out: Woe is me! For I have seen in advance the Incarnate One, the Lord of the light that knows no evening, and the King of peace. Most holy Theotokos, save us! When Simeon the Elder beheld the Word carried in the arms of his Mother, he recognized Him as the Glory revealed to the prophet. He cried out: Rejoice, O holy Lady, for you are the throne who carries God, the Lord of the light that knows no evening, and the King of peace. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Simeon bent down and reverently touched the footprints of the virgin Mother of God, saying: O pure Lady, I am afraid to hold in my arms the infant God, but you carry Him, the unconsumed Fire, the Lord of the light that knows no evening, and the King of peace. Glory… Now… Simeon spoke to the Mother of God, saying: One of the Seraphim purified the lips of Isaiah with a burning ember. You fill me with light as you entrust to me, with your hands as with tongs, the One whom you hold, the Lord of the light that knows no evening, and the King of peace. Katavasia: In a vision Isaiah saw the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne, surrounded by angels, and he cried out: Woe is me! For I have seen in advance the Incarnate One, the Lord of the light that knows no evening, and the King of peace. Ode 6 Irmos: I will sacrifice to you, O Lord, with the voice of praise:* so cries your Church to you,* purified from demons’ gore* through the blood which flows in pity from your side. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Girded with power you went up on the cross and came to grips with the tyrant and as God you dashed him down from the heights and raised up Adam with your invincible hand. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You are risen, O Christ, from the tomb in dazzling beauty of lightning flash, scattering to the winds by your power divine every one of your enemies. As God you have filled all things with gladness. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O wonder of all wonders, newest and strangest, that a virgin, knowing no man, conceived in the womb him who holds the whole universe in his hands and suffered no straitening. Irmos: When Simeon beheld with his own eyes the salvation which was to come to the people, he cried out to God: O Christ who comes from God, You are truly my God. Most holy Theotokos, save us! You are a stumbling stone and an obstacle for the disobedient in Sion, but You are the salvation for the faithful whom you will not let be put to shame. You are truly the image of the Father, begotten before all ages; now in your compassion You have put on the limitations of flesh. Glory… Now… Now You may dismiss in peace the servant who worships You as Son of the Most High, and Son of the Virgin, God who has become a child. Katavasia: When Simeon beheld with his own eyes the salvation which was to come to the people, he cried out to God: O Christ who comes from God, You are truly my God. Kontakion 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. Ikos Today Christ, the giver of life, has risen from the dead, come after three days from the tomb; by his might he has smashed the doors of death, put Hell to death and crushed death’s sting and Adam with Eve set free. Let all of us born of the earth sing to him, in thankfulness fervently cry out his praise. For he, the lone strong One, on the third day as God and as Lord has risen. Ode 7 Irmos: In a Persian furnace three children of Abraham were set on fire* but more than in the flames they blazed in loving desire to God, and cried:* Blessed are you, O Lord,* in the temple of your glory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Washed in Christ’s divine blood, mankind has been called to incorruption and sings in thanksgiving: Blessed are you, O Lord, in the temple of your glory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your tomb, O Christ, declares itself life-bearing, fairer far than Paradise, more radiant than any kingly hall, fount of our resurrection. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Hail, tabernacle of the Most High, hallowed and sacred. Joy is given through you, O Mother of God, to those who cry to you: Blessed are you amongst women, All-holy Lady. Irmos: We praise with fervour the Word of God who sent down dew upon the youths in the furnace as they spoke about heavenly things and who has now taken flesh from the pure Virgin. We sing to Him: Blessed are You, 0 God of our Fathers. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Simeon cried out: I leave this earth to declare the good tidings to Adam and Eve dwelling in Hades; and with the prophets he sang joyfully: Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers. Most holy Theotokos, save us! God descended into Hades to deliver those imprisoned there; He gives freedom to all the captives and sight to the blind, and He enables the speechless to cry aloud: Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers. Glory… Now… Simeon foretold to the Mother of God: A sword shall pierce your heart, O all-pure Virgin, when you see your Son upon the Cross. He is the One to whom we sing out: Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers. Katavasia: We praise with fervour the Word of God who sent down dew upon the youths in the furnace as they spoke about heavenly things and who has now taken flesh from the pure Virgin. We sing to Him: Blessed are You, 0 God of our Fathers. Ode 8 Irmos: Daniel, with hands outspread in the den,* stopped the gaping jaws of the lions;* the three children, lovers of God,* clothed in the virtue of godliness,* quenched the power of the fire and sang aloud:* Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. With hands outspread on the cross, O Lord, you gathered together the nations and showed them to be one Church praising you, with those on earth and those in heaven in harmony singing: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As lightning flashing, in the unapproachable light of the resurrection, the white-robed angel appeared to the women and cried: Why do you seek the living in the tomb as dead? Christ is risen indeed and we cry to him: All you his works, sing praises to the Lord. Most holy Theotokos, save us! You alone, among all the families of the earth, are revealed as Mother of God; wholly without stain, unharmed by the fire of the unapproachable light, you became the dwelling-place of the Godhead. We all bless you, therefore, Mary, God’s bride. Irmos: Standing together in the unbearable fire, yet not harmed by the flame,* the children, champions of godliness, sang a divine hymn:* O all you works of the Lord,* bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O Israel as you behold your glory, Emmanuel, the Child of the Virgin, now offered before the Ark of God, dance and sing together: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and glorify Him above forever. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Simeon said: Behold the Child who is God; He shall be a sign of contradiction. Let us sing to Him in faith: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and glorify Him above all forever. Glory… Now… God the Word, the Source of Life, now becomes a little child; He shall be the downfall of the disobedient and the rising of those who sing to Him in faith: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and glorify Him above all forever. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: Standing together in the unbearable fire, yet not harmed by the flame,* the children, champions of godliness, sang a divine hymn:* O all you works of the Lord,* bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: From you, O Virgin, the mountain unhewn,* is taken the stone uncut by human hands:* Christ the cornerstone, disparate natures joining together.* Therefore, we rejoice and magnify you, Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Wholly you have taken me up entire into union without confusion through your great mercy, my God, giving me salvation in full through your suffering endured on the cross in the flesh. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Gazing upon your opened tomb and upon the linen clothes, within which God had lain, left empty by your resurrection, your disciples said with the angel: The Lord is risen indeed. Most holy Theotokos, save us! All we the faithful worship the one divine nature but Trinity of persons; persons unconfounded, equal in power and equal in honour, we reverently magnify. O God-bearing Virgin, hope of Christians, protect and guard and save all those who put their trust in you. Irmos: In the shadow and the letter of the Law, let us, the faithful, discern a figure:* every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God.* Therefore do we magnify the firstborn Word and Son of the Father without beginning,* the firstborn Child of a Mother who has not known a man. O Virgin Mother of God, Hope of Christians, protect, watch, and save those who have placed their hope In you. Irmos: In the shadow and the letter of the Law, let us, the faithful, discern a figure:* every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God.* Therefore do we magnify the firstborn Word and Son of the Father without beginning,* the firstborn Child of a Mother who has not known a man. O Virgin Mother of God, Helper of the world, protect and preserve us from every care and worry. Irmos: We, the faithful, see the figure of Christ in the shadow and the letter of the law which says: Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord. Therefore, we extol the firstborn of the Eternal Father and the Virgin Mother. O God-bearing Simeon, come and raise up Christ to whom the Virgin gave birth. Irmos: We, the faithful, see the figure of Christ in the shadow and the letter of the law which says: Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord. Therefore, we extol the firstborn of the Eternal Father and the Virgin Mother. Simeon the Elder receives in his arms the Maker of the Law and Master of all. Irmos: We, the faithful, see the figure of Christ in the shadow and the letter of the law which says: Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord. Therefore, we extol the firstborn of the Eternal Father and the Virgin Mother. O mystical Tongs, how do you carry the Coal? How do you nourish Him who gives food to all? Irmos: In ancient times the people offered a pair of doves and two young pigeons. Now the holy Simeon and Anna the prophetess, filled with faith, ministered and glorified the Child of the Virgin, the only-begotten Son of the Father as He was brought into the Temple. O daughter of Phanuel, come and stand with us, giving thanks to Christ our Saviour, the Son of God. Irmos: In ancient times the people offered a pair of doves and two young pigeons. Now the holy Simeon and Anna the prophetess, filled with faith, ministered and glorified the Child of the Virgin, the only-begotten Son of the Father as He was brought into the Temple. The wise Anna, calm in spirit, awesomely speaks out, acknowledging Christ as the Creator of heaven and earth. Irmos: In ancient times the people offered a pair of doves and two young pigeons. Now the holy Simeon and Anna the prophetess, filled with faith, ministered and glorified the Child of the Virgin, the only-begotten Son of the Father as He was brought into the Temple. O Christ, the King of all, grant the faithful victory over their enemies. Irmos: In ancient times the people offered a pair of doves and two young pigeons. Now the holy Simeon and Anna the prophetess, filled with faith, ministered and glorified the Child of the Virgin, the only-begotten Son of the Father as He was brought into the Temple. O pure virgin Mother, the great things done for you are incomprehensible to angels and mortals. Irmos: Simeon cried out: You have granted me the boundless joy of your salvation, O Christ. Now take me, your servant, who is weary of the shadow, and make me a new preacher of the mystery of grace, as I extol You with praise. The pure Dove, the unspotted Lamb, carries the Lamb and Shepherd into the Temple. Irmos: Simeon cried out: You have granted me the boundless joy of your salvation, O Christ. Now take me, your servant, who is weary of the shadow, and make me a new preacher of the mystery of grace, as I extol You with praise. O Christ, King of all, grant me the gift of tears that I may weep for my soul, lost in evil. Irmos: Simeon cried out: You have granted me the boundless joy of your salvation, O Christ. Now take me, your servant, who is weary of the shadow, and make me a new preacher of the mystery of grace, as I extol You with praise. Let us devoutly praise the Divinity, the three Persons who shine with a threefold light. Irmos: Simeon cried out: You have granted me the boundless joy of your salvation, O Christ. Now take me, your servant, who is weary of the shadow, and make me a new preacher of the mystery of grace, as I extol You with praise. O Virgin Mary, enlighten my soul which is grievously darkened by the passions of life. The holy Anna, noble in faith and having the wisdom of years, reverently acknowledged the Master in the Temple; she extolled the Mother of God and praised her before everyone present. Katavasia: In the shadow and the letter of the Law, let us, the faithful, discern a figure:* every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God.* Therefore do we magnify the firstborn Word and Son of the Father without beginning,* the firstborn Child of a Mother who has not known a man. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light Resplendent with virtues* let us behold the men standing in brilliant clothes inside the grave,* giving life to the saddened myrrh-bearing women.* Let us learn of the resurrection of the Lord of heaven* and hasten with Peter to the tomb of life.* Let us stand before His wondrous resurrection* and contemplate the marvels of Christ. Glory… Now… Inspired by the Spirit, the Elder Simeon came to the Temple.* He received in his arms the Master of the Law and cried out: O Lord, release your servant from the bonds of the flesh* according to your word, in peace;* because my eyes have seen your revelation,* who is a light to the Gentiles and the salvation of Israel. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 4 O all-powerful Lord,* Who endured the Cross and death,* and arose from the dead,* we glorify Your Holy Resurrection. By Your Cross, O Christ, You have delivered us from the ancient curse,* and by Your death You have conquered the devil who tyrannized our nature.* By Your arising You have filled all things with joy,* wherefore we cry to You:* O Lord risen from the dead, glory be to You! O Christ the Saviour,* with Your Cross, guide us to Your truth,* and deliver us from the snares of the enemy;* O You who are risen from the dead* raise us also who have fallen through sin,* by the stretching out of Your hand,* O Lord, at the behest of the prayers of Your Saints. Without departing from Your Father’s bosom,* in Your tender compassion, You descended to earth,* O Only-begotten Word of God,* without change becoming man.* While You are impassible in Your divinity,* You suffered the Cross and death in the flesh;* and rising from the dead You have granted immortality to the race of mankind,* as You alone are all-powerful. In fulfilment of the Law,* the Lover of Mankind now is brought to the Temple.* Simeon takes Him in his aged arms and cries out:* Now let me depart to the blessedness of the world to come;* for I have beheld on this day, clothed in mortal flesh,* the One who is Lord of life and Master of death. In fulfilment of the Law,* the Lover of Mankind now is brought to the Temple.* Simeon takes Him in his aged arms and cries out:* Now let me depart to the blessedness of the world to come;* for I have beheld on this day, clothed in mortal flesh,* the One who is Lord of life and Master of death. As a light of revelation to the Gentiles,* You manifested yourself, O Lord.* The Sun of Justice sits upon a light cloud.* You fulfilled the shadow of the Law* and showed the beginning of the new grace.* Therefore, beholding You, Simeon cried out:* Release me from corruption, for I have seen You today. When You became incarnate as You willed,* You did not separate yourself from the bosom of the Father.* You uphold the whole world with your hand,* yet You were held in the arms of the ever-Virgin,* and You were handed over to the arms of Simeon, the servant of God.* Therefore, he cried out with joy:* Now You may dismiss your servant in peace, O Lord, for I have seen You. Tone 6, Glory… Now… O Christ our God, this day You have been pleased* to rest in the arms of the Elder* as You sit upon the throne of the Cherubim.* Deliver us, who sing your praises, from the force of passions,* and grant salvation to our souls. 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING Entrance The Lord has made known His salvation;* He has revealed His truth before the nations. 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.” Troparion, Tone 1: Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Mother of God!* From you there dawned the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God,* who enlightens those who dwell in darkness.* And you, O righteous Elder, be glad!* You received in your embrace* the Liberator of our souls,* who grants us resurrection. 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. Kontakion, Tone 1: By Your birth, You sanctified a virgin womb* and fittingly blessed the hands of Simeon.* You have come also now and saved us, O Christ our God;* give peace to Your community in time of war,* and strengthen its rulers, whom You love,* for You alone,* are the Lover of mankind. 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) Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord,* and my spirit has rejoiced in God, My Saviour. Epistle 1 Timothy 4:9-15; Hebrews 7:7-17 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) verse: Now, O Master, You dismiss Your servant in peace according to Your word. (Luke 2:29) Gospel Luke 19:1-10; Luke 2:22-40 Hymn to the Mother of God O God-bearing Virgin, hope of Christians, protect and guard and save all those who put their trust in you. and the Irmos, Tone 3: In the law, the shadow, and the scriptures, we the faithful see a figure: every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God. Therefore do we magnify the first-born Word and Son of the Father who is without beginning, the first-born Child of a Mother who had not known man. Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* I will take the chalice of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 116:13):

Feb 1, 2025 - 🕃 Pre-feast of the Encounter of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ; The Holy Martyr Tryphon.

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feb 1, 2025 Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The honoured temple prepares to receive within herself* the Lord who comes as an Infant.* With grace she spiritually illumines the faithful and God-loving assembly. * She cries out: You are my glory, my boast and the adornment of my fullness,* Word who became an Infant in the flesh for my sake! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. The most splendid bridal-chamber,* the all-honourable tabernacle,* the holy and spacious temple* bears the Lord within the chambers of the Temple.* She betroths Him beforehand to His honoured Church.* She prays to Him that those who fittingly glorify her as the Theotokos* may be delivered from corruption and dangers. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Let us now offer to Christ the praise of the prefeast,* glorifying His condescension!* For He is brought as an Infant in the Virgin's arms.* He comes to lie in the arms of Simeon* who prophesies to all mankind* that as Benefactor and Lord He makes their nature divine! Tone 3 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Having endured wounds, fetters and diverse tortures, suffering mightily,* the valiant martyrs were brought to their divine inheritance which is truly devoid of pain,* the heritage of their pangs. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. О holy hierarchs of the Lord, who gave utterance to the divine discourse of piety,* you refuted all the arguments of the heretics* and showed yourselves to be paragons for all the faithful;* wherefore, you are honoured. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. While in your material bodies,* you emulated the ranks of the immaterial and incorporeal beings, О God-bearing fathers,* most gloriously exhibiting their manner of life;* wherefore, you dwell in their habitations. Tone 3, Glory… Now… O Lady most honourable,* how could we but be rapt in wonder* at your giving birth to the Incarnate God* who, without a mother, was born of a Father before all ages?* You gave Him birth in the flesh without a father,* without a man’s instrumentality.* He is God and man whose two natures are intact,* neither one losing any of its properties.* Therefore, O Virgin Mother,* intercede with Him to save the souls* of those who believe and profess in true faith* that you are the Mother of God. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 6 The Light that knows no evening is made manifest,* shining forth from the Virgin in the fullness of time.* He has revealed all things hidden in darkness,* by the lightning of His divinity! Lord, now let Your servant depart in peace, according to Your Word, for my eyes have seen Your salvation! Through the transgression of Adam,* corruption reigned among mortals.* Now Christ is made manifest and we are healed,* without change the Child of the Virgin is born! A light to enlighten the Gentiles and the glory of Your people Israel! The Lord and Giver of the law,* a divine Child born of a Virgin Mother,* today is brought to the Temple of the law, fulfilling the scriptures. Tone 2, Glory… Now… The holy Lord is brought to the Temple, offered by the Virgin.* Simeon received Him in his outstretched arms with exceeding joy.* He cried out: Lord, now let Your servant depart in peace,* for my eyes have seen Your salvation! Troparia Tone 1 The heavenly choir of angels* has come down to the earth* to behold the First-born of creation* born from an unwedded Mother* brought to the Temple as an Infant,* as the angels join us in our expectant song. Glory… Now… O Holy Tabernacle, when Gabriel cried out to you:* Rejoice O Virgin, full of grace,* the Lord of all became incarnate of you,* as the righteous David had foretold.* In bearing your Creator, you have shown yourself to surpass the vastness of the heavens.* We, therefore, cry out: Glory to Him who dwelt in you!* Glory to Him who came forth from you!* Glory to Him who has set us free through your life-giving birth! DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion: Tone 1: The heavenly choir of angels* has come down to the earth* to behold the First-born of creation* born from an unwedded Mother* brought to the Temple as an Infant,* as the angels join us in our expectant song. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 6: The Word invisible with the Father is now beheld in the flesh.* He is born ineffably of the Virgin* and given to the high priest on the arms of the elder.* Let us worship Him as our true God! Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle Romans 8:28-39 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just man shall flourish like the palm tree; and he shall grow like the cedar in Lebanon. verse: They who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish the courts of our God. (Psalm 91:13,14) Gospel Luke 10:19-21 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 31, 2025 - 🕃 The Holy Wonderworkers and Unmercenaries Cyrus and John; Venerable Father John Bosco.

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 31, 2025 Saint with Six Stichera. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The prescribed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Illumining the whole world with rays of miracles,* O Cyrus and John, all radiant beacons,* you were like to the heavens in grace,* displaying like stars* the virtues of your exalted life. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Illumining the whole world with rays of miracles,* O Cyrus and John, all radiant beacons,* you were like to the heavens in grace,* displaying like stars* the virtues of your exalted life. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O martyrs of the Lord, O rain-bearing clouds* who excelled in manifold miracles of grace,* you water the whole world noetically,* prevailing upon the healthy* to offer hymnody to God. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Truly receiving from God the skill to heal the sufferings of soul and body,* O martyrs of the Lord, you supernaturally heal all* not by means of human medicines,* but by the inspiration of God. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Surrounded by the hosts of heaven,* O radiant luminaries Cyrus and John, O valiant athletes,* you heal the bodies of those on earth and wounded souls for Christ’s sake.* Entreat Him, that He save us. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Following Christ, the Fountain of glory,* you have been shown to all as wellsprings of immortality,* and pour forth sweet streams which cure and heal men’s bodies and souls;* for you zealously shed streams of blood for Christ. Tone 8, Glory… Two martyrs have shone forth upon us today, healing the pangs of our souls:* Cyrus and John, the wonder-workers.* The one, embracing the angelic life and living it to the end,* united himself to Christ by the blood of martyrdom;* and the other, shining forth among the military ranks,* is now enrolled in the armies of heaven.* Wherefore, they impart healing to those who with faith celebrate their memory,* praying for our souls. Now… “I cannot bear to see You, O my Child,* Who gives vigilance to all,* asleep upon the Tree,* that You may bestow divine and saving wakefulness* upon those who of old fell into the sleep of perdition* by eating the fruit of disobedience!” the Virgin said, weeping.* Her do we magnify. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 3 I bow down, О Christ, before Your precious Cross:* the guardian of the world, the salvation of us sinners,* the great purification and boast of the whole world. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Lifting up his arms in the form of the Cross on the mountain, Moses vanquished Amalek;* and You, О Saviour, stretched out upon the precious Cross, embraced me,* saving me from slavery to the enemy,* and gave it to me as the sign of life,* enabling me to evade the arrows of my adversaries.* Wherefore, О Word, I bow down before Your precious Cross. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Great is the power of Your Cross!* For it was planted in one place, yet works throughout the world;* and it made apostles of fishermen and martyrs of the heathen,* that they might pray on behalf of our souls. Tone 2, Glory… Come, O assembly of the faithful,* and with hymns let us crown Cyrus and John today:* the soldiers of grace and most generous fulfillers of petitions;* for in manifold ways they have been shown to all as most splendid physicians.* Wherefore, they pray for our souls. Now… When you beheld the most ripe Cluster,* Who you produced in your womb without cultivation, O pure one,* hanging upon the Tree, you exclaimed, lamenting, and cried out:* “O my Child, let fall a drop of sweetness,* whereby all the drunkenness of the passions may be banished!* O Benefactor, be entreated in Your loving-kindness* for the sake of me who gave You birth!” Troparia Tone 5 Christ our God, You have granted us the miracles of Your holy martyrs, Cyrus and John,* as a stronghold and protection.* Through their prayers, strengthen those in authority in every good deed,* for You alone are merciful and the Lover of mankind! Glory… Now… Since you are all-pleasing to God,* may the error of idol worship be destroyed,* and may the power of demons be trodden underfoot* by the might of your Son’s cross.* Therefore, we the faithful always sing to you in humility;* we bless you and we exalt you,* professing that you are truly the Mother of God. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 5: Christ our God, You have granted us the miracles of Your holy martyrs, Cyrus and John,* as a stronghold and protection.* Through their prayers, strengthen those in authority in every good deed,* for You alone are merciful and the Lover of mankind! Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 3: Holy ones, you received as a grace the power of miracles:* Do not cease to pour out your wonders on us.* By spiritual skill, cut out our passions, two great physicians,* divinely inspired Cyrus and holy John! Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land,* the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord always in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. Epistle 1 Peter 1:1-2, 10-12; 2:6-10 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together. verse: For the Lord confers His blessing and life for ever. (Psalm 132:1,3) Gospel Mark 12:1-12 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Jan 30, 2025 - 🕁 The Three Holy and Great Hierarchs Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom; The Holy Hieromartyr Hippolytus.

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 30, 2025 All-Night Vigil Feast. A day when the faithful are highly encouraged to participate in the Divine Liturgy. GREAT VESPERS WITH LYTIA ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is taken. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Let us glorify the three great preachers of the Trinity,* the instruments of grace and harps of the Spirit,* renowned trumpets of divine preaching* who thundered awesome wonders which were revealed from on high.* John, Basil, and Gregory made known the glory of God* to the ends of the earth. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Let us worthily venerate the defenders of the Trinity.* They are the three apostles added to the Twelve.* They are rivers which overflowed living waters out of Eden.* They nourished the face of the earth with life-giving divine waters .* They are the basic elements of nature,* fashioning not creation but the true faith. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The prophet spoke of them, saying:* No one who lives or speaks has not heard their voices,* for the famous and excellent works of these sublime and wise teachers* have spread through all the earth and sea.* By their divine laws the ends of the earth are joined together* and preserved in the one true faith. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Let us, who follow their teachings,* loudly sing and praise these instruments of the Holy Spirit.* They are the true trumpets and orators of the Word.* Let us pray to them since they find favour with the Lord,* that He may grant a strong and lasting universal peace* and forgiveness to all of us. Tone 2 From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. With what praiseworthy crowns shall we crown the teachers,* distinct in body but joined together in the Spirit?* They are the God-bearing defenders of the Trinity, the triad of ministers,* the luminaries who enlighten the world, and pillars of the Church.* Because they conquered all,* Christ our God mercifully gave them crowns of glory. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. With what songs of joy shall we crown the God-bearing mystics and preachers?* They were the most outstanding theologians of the true faith:* Basil the Great who revealed truths about God;* the sublime theologian Gregory, and John the Golden-mouthed.* They are fittingly glorified by the Trinity,* the Lord who grants His great mercy. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. With what praiseworthy words shall we honour the holy bishops?* They were comparable to the apostles in rank and gifts through grace.* They defeated heresy and were sanctifiers by word and deed.* They were Christ-like shepherds in the faith.* They were earthly angels and heavenly men.* They were honoured by the Lord of glory,* by Christ who grants His great mercy. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. With what praiseworthy crowns* shall we crown John the Golden-mouthed, Basil, and Gregory?* They are precious vessels of the Spirit* and firm defenders of the faith,* pillars of the Church, the foundation of the faithful, and comfort of sinners.* We honour them as wellsprings which overflow,* refreshing our souls with water.* They ask forgiveness for our sins and great mercy for us. Tone 6, Glory… Let us extol today those mystical trumpets of the Spirit,* the God-mantled Fathers,* who, speaking of divine things,* sang a unifying hymn in the midst of the Church:* teaching that the Trinity is One,* not differing in substance or Godhead;* refuting Arius and contending for the true faith;* and who always intercede with the Lord* to have mercy on our souls. Now… Who would not 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 have mercy on our souls. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Readings (1) Deuteronomy 1:8-11, 15-17; (2) Deuteronomy 10:14-21; (3) Wisdom 3:1-9 Lytia Tone 2 Come, let us praise the earthly trinity of holy bishops* who are ministers of the heavenly Trinity:* Basil, whose name means the kingdom;* Gregory, called the Theologian; and John, the Golden-mouthed.* They are the abyss of those who searched into the wisdom of the Spirit.* They are likened to ocean currents* and ever-flowing wellsprings of leaping and living water.* They are known as elegant pearls and earthly beacons,* the rudders of the Church and trees that produce the most splendid fruit,* the stewards of grace and mouth of Christ.* They are defenders of the Trinity* by whom they were directly enlightened.* They pray unceasingly for our souls. Let us faithfully praise the flaming coals of the divine Fire,* for we have been illumined by them.* They became inflamed by being united to Him,* and they became luminaries for the world.* They showed themselves to be living strength for the lowly.* In faith they devoutly preached the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.* Let us also cry out to them:* Rejoice, O three preachers of the Trinity. Tone 6 O Holy Trinity, worthy of adoration,* glory to Your wise plan of salvation,* for You have given three great luminaries to us.* They enlighten us by the light of their knowledge of You,* they inspire us by their teachings,* and they shine with the radiance* of your precious desires for our salvation.* Through them the whole world has been enriched with the light of understanding;* it radiates with Your glory and hastens to Your blessed kingdom.* Since You are an all-generous God, O Holy Trinity,* be attentive to their prayers in our behalf* and save our souls, O Lord and Lover of mankind. Glory… Having come together with songs of praise, O lovers of feasts,* let us praise the bishops of Christ* and the glory of the Fathers,* the pillars of the faith,* the teachers and defenders of the faithful.* Let us cry out to them:* Rejoice, O luminary of the Church and immutable pillar, O wise Basil.* Rejoice, O heavenly mind and great hierarch, Gregory the Theologian.* Rejoice, O golden-voiced John, splendid preacher of penance.* O thrice-blessed Fathers, never cease to pray to Christ* in behalf of those who with faith and love* observe your sacred and sublime feast. Now … Having come together with songs of praise, O lovers of feasts,* let us extol the boast of virgins and the joy of angels,* the only Theotokos and the strength of believers.* Let us all cry out to her:* Rejoice, O pure virgin Mother,* splendorous luminary and gate of heaven.* Rejoice, O sacred tabernacle and all-pure One* who contained God with your womb.* Rejoice, for without exception you are higher than all the heavenly powers.* Therefore, O Lady and virgin Mother,* do not cease to protect your servants* who in faith and love extol you at all times,* and who bow down to your holy and pure birth-giving. Aposticha Tone 1 Today, let us worthily praise the triad of spiritual mystics,* the speaking trumpets and mirrors of God:* the great Basil and the sublime Gregory inspired with zeal* and the truly golden-mouthed John.* Their teachings pour out a stream of gold for us. Precious in the sight of the Lord is he death of His faithful. Let us worthily sing the praises of the foundation of the faith,* the sublime and courageous mind,* the stream that flows with Gold,* the very splendid and precious luminaries* and defenders of the Trinity,* the receptacles of the grace of the Spirit* and unshakeable pillars. Your priests shall be clothed with holiness; your faithful shall ring out their joy. O instruments of the Spirit and trumpets of the divine thunder,* O brilliant lights of preaching,* O golden, light-bearing, resplendent lamps of God,* O most blessed Basil, most wise Gregory, and most precious John,* implore Christ our God to save those who honour you. Tone 2, Glory… Today the souls of mortals are elevated above earthly things.* Today they become heavenly beings as the commemorate the saints.* The gates of heaven are opened for us,* and the ways of the Lord are made known to us.* Tongues extol His miracles* and proclaim the words of the Word.* Let us also cry out to the Saviour:* Glory to You, O Christ God,* because through them there has been peace for the faithful. Now… Today, Christ is being carried into the temple as an infant.* Today, He who gave the Law to Moses comes under the Law.* The angelic hosts were amazed when they saw Him, who supports all things,* being held in the arms of an aged man.* Simeon, filed with reverence, joyfully cried out:* Now dismiss me, O Saviour, from the temporal life* and let me enter the repose which never grows old,* for I have seen You and I now rejoice. Troparia Tone 4 As equals to the apostles in the way you lived* and teachers of the whole world* intercede with the Master of all to grant peace to the world,* and, to our souls, great mercy. (2) Tone 1 Rejoice, Mother of God, Virgin Mary full of grace!* The Lord is with you.* Blessed are you among women,* and blessed is the fruit of your womb.* For you have borne Christ, the Saviour and Redeemer of our souls. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: As equals to the apostles in the way you lived* and teachers of the whole world,* intercede with the Master of all* to grant peace to the world,* and to our souls great mercy. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: You received Your inspired and steadfast preachers, Your chief teachers* into the enjoyment of Your good things and into repose.* You who alone glorify Your saints,* accepted their labours and death* more gladly than any holocaust. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world. verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hand. (Psalm 19:5,2) Epistle Hebrews 13:7-16 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The heavens shall confess Your wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints. verse: God is glorified in the assembly of the saints. (Psalm 89:6,8) Gospel Matthew 5:14-19 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Jan 29, 2025 - 🕃 The Transfer of the Relics of the Great-Martyr Ignatius the God-bearer.

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 29, 2025 Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 3 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Creation was transformed by Your crucifixion, О Word:* the sun withdrew its rays in fear and the veil of the temple was rent in two;* and every one of the faithful was saved.* Wherefore, we glorify Your infinite riches. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. God the Master, who in His compassion assumed our flesh, was nailed to the Tree;* and when He was lifted up bodily, as He was well-pleased,* in the tender compassion of His mercy* He raised us up who were cast down. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The world was renewed by the drops of divinely shed blood and water* which flowed from Your side, О Lord;* wherefore, in that You are compassionate,* with water You wash away the sins of all,* and by Your blood You give us forgiveness to drink. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You were the last successor of John the Theologian* and you followed in his steps!* You rose from the east, but appeared in the west,* illumining all with the lighting flashes of godly preaching.* There you departed from the world, most wise one,* shining out to God, crowned with the splendour of grace! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Most wise bearer of God,* your relics were given to your city in a holy way.* They were hallowed in splendour by your suffering,* illumining us with grace by their return.* They have become the cause of our solemn feast,* filling with gladness inspired by God* and delighting with sweet fragrance* those who honour you with devotion! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Before, you shone from the east upon the lands of the west* more brightly than the morning star.* Now, in the return of your divine relics,* you have spread beams of light upon the earth from the evening sky.* You entreat Christ to deliver from corruption and misfortune* those who celebrate your most honoured memory with faith! Tone 3, Glory… Now… A sword pierced thy heart, O most pure one,* when you beheld your Son upon the Cross;* whereupon you cried aloud: “Show me not to be childless, O my Son and my God,* O You who have kept me a Virgin even after birthgiving!” Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 3 I bow down, О Christ, before Your precious Cross:* the guardian of the world, the salvation of us sinners,* the great purification and boast of the whole world. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. The tree of disobedience put forth death for the world;* but the Tree of the Cross put forth life and incorruption.* Wherefore, we worship the crucified Lord, crying:* Let the light of Your countenance be signed upon us! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. The prophets, the apostles of Christ and the martyrs* enlightened and taught the erring nations to hymn the consubstantial Trinity,* and made the children of mankind companions of the angels. Tone 3, Glory… Now… When Your Mother, the unblemished Ewe-lamb who gave You birth,* saw You lifted up upon the Cross, О my Christ,* she lamented and cried out, weeping: “Show me not to be childless,* whom You preserved pure even after giving birth!” Troparia Tone 4 Having offered yourself as a sanctified gift to God,* you were thrown to the ravenous animals.* You received the crown of victory from God for this.* Save those who honour you as a pastor for Christ,* a teacher and a companion of martyrs. Glory… Now… O Virgin, all immaculate Mother of Christ God,* a sword pierced your all-holy soul* when you saw your Son and God willingly crucified.* Therefore, O blessed One,* never cease to pray to Him* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Having offered yourself as a sanctified gift to God,* you were thrown to the ravenous animals.* You received the crown of victory from God for this.* Save those who honour you as a pastor for Christ,* a teacher and a companion of martyrs. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Rising in the east today* and enlightening all the world by your teachings,* you were graced with martyrdom, O heavenly Ignatius. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The venerable ones will exult in glory* and they shall be joyful in their beds. verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; let His praise be in the assembly of the venerable ones. (Psalm 149:5,1) Epistle James 3:11-4:6 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Your priests shall clothe themselves with justice, and Your venerable ones shall rejoice. verse: For the Lord has chosen Sion; He has chosen it for His dwelling. (Psalm 131:9,13) Gospel Mark 11:23-26 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 28, 2025 - 🕃 Our Venerable Father Ephrem the Syrian.

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 28, 2025 Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Looking toward the beauties of paradise,* and richly delighting in meadows of incorruption,* you blossomed forth the knowledge of God for the world;* and partaking thereof with spiritual love, O venerable one,* we grow spiritually in soul. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Looking toward the beauties of paradise,* and richly delighting in meadows of incorruption,* you blossomed forth the knowledge of God for the world;* and partaking thereof with spiritual love, O venerable one,* we grow spiritually in soul. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Having written of the coming of the Judge with streams of tears,* you teach all to light the lamps of their souls,* announcing the arrival of the Bridegroom,* that we may all clothe ourselves with splendid vesture* to greet Christ the Bridegroom. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Having written of the coming of the Judge with streams of tears,* you teach all to light the lamps of their souls,* announcing the arrival of the Bridegroom,* that we may all clothe ourselves with splendid vesture* to greet Christ the Bridegroom. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Protecting your body with abstinence,* you mortified the movements of the passions, O father,* by prayers and vigils. The power of the Spirit which dwelled within you* has shown you to be a spiritual beacon* for the whole world. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Protecting your body with abstinence,* you mortified the movements of the passions, O father,* by prayers and vigils. The power of the Spirit which dwelled within you* has shown you to be a spiritual beacon* for the whole world. Tone 6, Glory… Having resolved to forsake the tumults of life, O ever-memorable Ephrem,* you attained to the desert with love of stillness;* and thereby led actively to God,* you shone forth as a lamp upon the world,* and poured forth the words of life upon men.* Never cease to make us steadfast by your prayers, O venerable father,* that our souls may be delivered from the alien foe. Tone 6, Now… О most holy Virgin, show forth upon me, the wretched one,* the depths of your love for mankind,* the abyss of your tender compassion, and the countless compassions of thy goodness.* Mow down the stubble of sin, granting me chastity,* and preserve my body and soul undefiled,* О you who have given birth to the Saviour. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 3 Our evening hymn do we bring to You, O Christ,* with incense and spiritual songs,* have mercy on us and save our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Save me, O Lord my God for You are the salvation of all:* The storm of the passions disquiets me,* and the yoke of my transgressions weighs heavily upon me.* Stretch out Your helping hand and lead me up to the light of compunction,* for You alone are compassionate and the Lover of mankind. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Great is the power of Your martyrs, О Christ;* for while lying in their graves they drive evil spirits away;* and, having struggled for piety with their faith in the Trinity,* they abolished the authority of the enemy. Tone 4, Glory… Making your couch wet with your tears, as did the prophet,* and achieving repentance by instruction of life,* by your works and discourses you have shown us the fear of judgment;* and, assembling, we all honour your memory, O most blessed one,* doer of all-glorious deeds of the Lord, O ever-memorable Ephrem.* We entreat you now: pray to Christ God in behalf of our souls. Tone 43, Now… Deliver us from our needs, O Mother of Christ God,* you who have given birth to the Creator of all,* that we all may cry out to you:* Rejoice, O you who alone are the intercessor for our souls! Troparia Tone 8 Your abundant tears made the wilderness bloom,* and your sufferings made your labours fruitful a hundredfold;* you became a shining torch over the world.* O venerable father Ephrem,* pray to Christ our God that He may save our souls. Glory… Now… With hymns of praise let us, the faithful, exalt the Mother of God,* the solid foundation of our faith* and the precious gift to our souls:* Rejoice, O woman who contained in your womb the Rock of life!* Rejoice, O hope of the world and helper of those who are in trouble!* Rejoice, O bride and Virgin forever! DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: Your abundant tears made the wilderness bloom,* and your sufferings made your labours fruitful a hundredfold;* you became a shining torch over the world.* O venerable father Ephrem,* pray to Christ our God that He may 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 82: Ever conscious of the hour of judgment,* you shed tears of bitter lament, O Ephrem.* You actively embraced the life of silence which you loved so dearly.* By your actions you have taught us.* You have spurred the lazy to repentance. 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 115:15,12) Epistle James 3:1-10 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 Mark 11:11-23 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 27, 2025 - 🕂 The Transfer of the Precious Relics of our holy Father John Chrysostom.

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 27, 2025 Polyeleos Feast. GREAT VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Let us joyfully sing the praises of Chrysostom, the golden trumpet,* the divinely-inspired organ, the inexhaustible sea of doctrine,* the pillar of the Church, the heavenly mind,* the abyss of wisdom, the gilded vase.* He pours forth sweet streams of dogma like honey* for the refreshment of the world. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Let us joyfully sing the praises of Chrysostom, the golden trumpet,* the divinely-inspired organ, the inexhaustible sea of doctrine,* the pillar of the Church, the heavenly mind,* the abyss of wisdom, the gilded vase.* He pours forth sweet streams of dogma like honey* for the refreshment of the world. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let us joyfully sing the praises of Chrysostom, the golden trumpet,* the divinely-inspired organ, the inexhaustible sea of doctrine,* the pillar of the Church, the heavenly mind,* the abyss of wisdom, the gilded vase.* He pours forth sweet streams of dogma like honey* for the refreshment of the world. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Let us worthily honour John Chrysostom,* he is the ever-shining star all nations with the rays of true teaching.* He is the preacher of repentance;* the golden sponge wiping away the despair of sadness.* His words are a refreshing dew* reviving hearts which are worn by sin. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Let us worthily honour John Chrysostom,* he is the ever-shining star all nations with the rays of true teaching.* He is the preacher of repentance;* the golden sponge wiping away the despair of sadness.* His words are a refreshing dew* reviving hearts which are worn by sin. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Let us worthily honour John Chrysostom,* he is the ever-shining star all nations with the rays of true teaching.* He is the preacher of repentance;* the golden sponge wiping away the despair of sadness.* His words are a refreshing dew* reviving hearts which are worn by sin. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. With joyful hymns let us praise Chrysostom:* an earthly angel and a heavenly man.* He is a sweet and well-tuned harp, a treasury of virtues;* an immovable rock, a model of the faithful,* an imitator of the martyrs, a dweller with the holy angels,* and a companion of the apostles. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. With joyful hymns let us praise Chrysostom:* an earthly angel and a heavenly man.* He is a sweet and well-tuned harp, a treasury of virtues;* an immovable rock, a model of the faithful,* an imitator of the martyrs, a dweller with the holy angels,* and a companion of the apostles. Glory… The Church, enriched by your radiant teachings, cries out to you, Chrysostom,* I am nourished by your golden pastures;* I feed at the sweet streams of your words,* by your example, I am led from action to contemplation.* I am united to Christ my bridegroom and reign with him.* Now we, assembled in your memory, cry out to you,* cease not to pray that our souls may be saved. Now… O Mother of God, because of You David the Prophet* became an ancestor of God;* he foretold and sang a joyous hymn of praise* and cried out to Him who worked wonders in you:* “The Queen stood at your right hand.”* God revealed you as a life-giving mother,* when He chose to be incarnate of you without a father.* He renewed in man His image which the passions had corrupted.* He found the lost sheep in the mountains, carried it on His shoulders,* offered it to the Father, generously numbered it among the powers of heaven,* and saved the whole world, since He is Christ of great and rich mercy. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Readings (1) Proverbs 10:6-8; 8:6-21; (2) Wisdom 8:17-21; 9:1-4; (3) Wisdom 4:1, 6-20 Aposticha Tone 5 Grace is poured out on your lips, holy father Chrysostom.* The Lord anointed you to be a priest of his people,* to feed his flock in holiness and justice.* Armed with the sword of strength, you cut off the confusion of error:* cease not to pray for peace for the world* and salvation for our souls. My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart understanding! Rejoice, father of orphans, sufferer of unjust banishment,* treasury of the poor, food of the hungry,* converter of sinners, skilled physician of souls,* interpreter of holy Scripture, living law of the Holy Spirit:* pray to Christ our God, that He may have mercy on us. The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom and his tongue speaks justice. The world is enlightened by your words, brilliant sun,* your charity is a bright star, a shining lamp, and a beacon for all,* guiding to salvation those lost in the stormy sea of this world.* Venerable John, intercede for us. Tone 6, Glory... Holy father, as a loyal pastor you suffered unjustly,* you drank the bitter cup of tribulation and exile.* You received a blessed death, glorifying God for all things.* As a courageous soldier, you overcame the crafty enemy.* Chrysostom, offer our prayers to Christ our God,* who glorified you with the crown of victory. Now… Christ the Lord, our Creator and Redeemer,* came forth from your womb, O most pure Virgin.* He clothed Himself in our human flesh* to set us free from the original curse of Adam.* Therefore, O Mary, we praise you, without ceasing,* as the true Virgin Mother of God,* and we sing with the angels:* Rejoice, O Lady, advocate, protector, and salvation of our souls. Troparia Tone 8 The divine Church rejoices* and the whole world keeps feast with radiance* at the transfer of your relics, O venerable hierarch John Chrysostom.* Your life as a bishop was godly* and you willingly became a martyr.* Therefore we cry to you, O martyr, passion-bearer and hierarchs’ companion:* Pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved. Glory… Now… O gracious Lord, for the sake of mankind You were born of a virgin;* through Your death on the cross You conquered death;* and through Your resurrection You revealed yourself as God.* O merciful Lord, do not disdain those whom You have created with Your own hands,* but show forth Your love for mankind.* Accept the intercession which the Mother, who bore You, makes in our behalf.* O Saviour, save Your despairing people! DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: The divine Church rejoices* and the whole world keeps feast with radiance* at the transfer of your relics, O venerable hierarch John Chrysostom.* Your life as a bishop was godly* and you willingly became a martyr.* Therefore we cry to you, O martyr, passion-bearer and hierarchs’ companion:* Pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 1: The precious Church rejoices mystically* at the transfer of your holy relics* and treasuring them as costly gold* it lavishly grants to those who hymn you the grace of healing,* by your prayers, O John the Golden-mouthed. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart understanding. verse: Hear these things, all you nations; give ear all you inhabitants of the world. (Psalm 28:4,2) Epistle Hebrews 7:26-8:2 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: The mouth of the just man shall meditate wisdom and his tongue shall speak judgment. verse: The law of his God is in his heart, and his steps will not falter. (Psalm 36:30,31) Gospel John 10:9-16 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 26, 2025 - 36th Sunday after Pentecost; Octoechos Tone 3; Our Venerable Father Xenophon and his wife Maria.

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 26, 2025 GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 3 Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name. By Your cross, O Christ our Saviour,* the power of Death has been vanquished* and the deceit of the devil has been destroyed.* Therefore, mankind, saved by faith,* offers You hymns of praise forever. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me. O Lord, all creation has been enlightened by Your resurrection,* and paradise has been reopened;* therefore, all creation extols You* and offers You hymns of praise forever. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! I glorify the power of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit;* and I praise the dominion of the undivided Divinity,* the consubstantial Trinity,* who reigns forever and ever. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. We adore Your precious cross, O Christ,* and with hymns of praise we glorify Your resurrection;* for by Your wounds we have all been healed. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let us sing the praises of the Saviour,* who was incarnate of the Virgin;* for He was crucified for our sake,* and on the third day He arose from the dead,* granting us His great mercy. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Christ descended into Hades and announced to those confined there:* Take courage, for today I have conquered death.* I am the Resurrection, the One who will set you free.* I shattered the gates of the realm of death. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Christ our God, we unworthily stand in Your most pure temple,* and offer to You our evening hymns.* From the depths of our souls we cry out to You:* O Lover of mankind, who has enlightened the world* by Your resurrection on the third day,* deliver Your people from the hands of Your enemies. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Tone 2 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. The glory of your soul shone brilliantly,* for you illumined yourself with faith and almsgiving.* You rejoiced to distribute your wealth to the poor!* Your righteousness abides for ever in the unfading light* which shone out from you, Father.* There you behold your children and her that gave them birth,* dwelling in the heavenly city. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You turned away from corruptible glory* and were counted worthy of the glory that is incorruptible and divine.* Having trampled down all the pleasures of life, God-bearers,* you indeed desired greatly the all-beautiful Christ.* He saved you from the triple waves and tempest of the world* and guided you to the calm and radiant life, most wealthy ones! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You killed the passions of the flesh * and clothed yourselves in the garments of dispassion* woven from the purity of your life.* While yet in the body you manifested a life equal to the angels!* You were great in wisdom* and have been counted worthy of the glory of the angels on high,* where you delight in the radiance of God! Tone 3, Glory… Now… O Lady most honourable,* how could we but be rapt in wonder* at your giving birth to the Incarnate God* who, without a mother, was born of a Father before all ages?* You gave Him birth in the flesh without a father,* without a man’s instrumentality.* He is God and man whose two natures are intact,* neither one losing any of its properties.* Therefore, O Virgin Mother,* intercede with Him to save the souls* of those who believe and profess in true faith* that you are the Mother of God. Aposticha Tone 3 O Christ, who darkened the sun by Your passion* and enlightened all creation by Your resurrection,* accept our evening prayer; for You love mankind. The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength. O Lord, Your life-giving resurrection has enlightened the entire universe* and has revived Your creation which lay in corruption.* Therefore, we, who have been released from the curse of Adam, cry out to You:* Almighty Lord, glory to You! For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved. O God, although in Your divine nature You are unchangeable,* yet in Your human nature You underwent change by suffering in the flesh.* All creation was prostrate with fear* when it saw You hanging on the cross,* and it groaned in sorrow as it sang the praises of Your long-suffering.* But You descended into Hades and arose on the third day,* granting life and great mercy to the world. Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days. You suffered death, O Christ, to deliver mankind from death.* And when You arose from the dead on the third day,* You enlightened the world* and resurrected all who acknowledge You as God. Glory… 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 Tone 3 Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world. Tone 4, Glory… O God of our fathers,* You always deal with us according to your everlasting compassion,* take not your mercy away from us;* but through the prayers of our fathers,* guide our lives along the ways of peace. 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,* and saved our souls from death. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 3 Troparia, Tone 3 Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world. (2) Tone 4, Glory… O God of our fathers,* You always deal with us according to your everlasting compassion,* take not your mercy away from us;* but through the prayers of our fathers,* guide our lives along the ways of peace. 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,* and saved our souls from death. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 3 Christ has arisen from the dead, the first fruits of those that sleep.* The First-born of creation and Creator of all that has come to be,* has renewed in Himself the corrupted nature of our race.* Death, no longer is your lord,* for the Master of all things has destroyed your dominion. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. Having tasted death in the flesh, O Lord,* You have blotted out the bitterness of death by Your arising* strengthening mankind against it, and announcing the abolition of the ancient curse.* Defender of our lives, O Lord, glory be to You! Glory… Now… Awed by the beauty of your virginity* and the exceeding radiance of your purity,* Gabriel called out to you, O Theotokos:* What worthy hymn of praise can I offer to you?* And what shall I name you?* I am in doubt and stand in awe.* Wherefore as commanded, I cry to you:* Rejoice, O Full of Grace. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 3 Awed by Your immutable Godhead* and by Your voluntary passion, O Lord,* Hades lamented: I tremble at Your body’s essence, which remains incorrupt.* I behold You, the One who is invisible, mystically making war against me;* wherefore those whom I hold cry out:* ‘Glory, O Christ, to Your Resurrection!’ I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. We the faithful contemplate an ineffable mystery:* Your incomprehensible Crucifixion and Your inexplicable Arising.* For today Death and Hades have been despoiled,* but mankind has been clothed in incorruption.* Wherefore with thanksgiving we cry aloud to You:* Glory, O Christ, to Your Resurrection! Glory… Now… Mystically did you contain in your womb* the Incomprehensible and Uncircumscribed One,* consubstantial with the Father and the Spirit;* and we acknowledge in your Offspring one unconfused energy of the Trinity Who is glorified in the world.* And so with thanksgiving we cry to you, ** ‘Rejoice, O full of grace!’ Polyeleos Evlogitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 3 A Cause of amazement by his appearance,* and source of refreshment by his speech,* the radiant Angel spoke to the myrrh-bearing women saying:* Why do you seek the living in a grave?* He has arisen, emptying the graves.* Know that the unchangeable One has changed corruption.* Wherefore cry to God saying,* ‘How fearful are Your works!* For You have saved mankind.’ Hymn of Ascent, Tone 3 Antiphon 1 You, O Word, delivered the captivity of Sion from Babylon,* Deliver me also* from the passions to life. Those who sow in the South* with tears inspired by God,* shall in joy reap sheaves of everlasting life. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit,* together with the Father and the Son* shines forth the reflection of every good gift,* In Him all things live and have their being. Antiphon 2 Except the Lord build the house of the virtues,* in vain do we labour.* While He protects our soul no one lays waste our city. The Saints, O Christ, fruits of the womb,* are by the Spirit, always sons to You,* as You are to the Father. Glory… Now… The Holy Spirit is the inspiration of all that is holy and wise;* for He quickens every creature.* Let us worship Him* together with the Father and the Son, for He is God. Antiphon 3 Those who fear the Lord are blessed* as they walk along the paths of His commandments;* for they partake of the life-giving fruit. Be glad, Chief Shepherd,* beholding Your offspring around Your table* bearing the branches of good works. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit is a superabundance of glory;* for from Him proceeds forth grace and life* into all creation;* wherefore He is praised together with the Father and the Word. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 Proclaim to the nations: God is king. The world He made firm in its place. verse: O sing a new song to the Lord, sing to the Lord all the earth. Let everything that lives, Tone 3 Gospel Mark 16:9-20 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 3 Ode 1 Irmos: In time past by his divine command he gathered the waters into one heap* and divided the sea for the people of Israel:* this is our God, he is glorious,* to him alone we sing, for he is glorified. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He condemned the earth to bring forth thorns, fruit of the transgressor’s sweat; he received in the flesh a crown of thorns from the hands of lawless men : this is our God, he has done away with the curse, he is glorified. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He whom death smote is declared the conqueror who won the victory over death; for taking living flesh subject to suffering, he wrestled with the tyrant and raised up all with himself: he is our God, he is glorified. Glory… Now… All nations glorify you, true Mother of God, who seedlessly bore your child; for he, our God, stole down into your hallowed womb and, invested with our being, God and man was born of you. Katavasia: The Sun once shone with its rays upon dry land* in the midst of the deep.* For the water on both sides became firm as a wall* while the people crossed the sea on foot,* offering this song acceptable to God:* Let us sing to the Lord; for gloriously is He glorified. Ode 3 Irmos: Almighty Lord,* you brought all things from nothing into being,* created by the Word, perfected by the Spirit.* Make me firm in your love. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The ungodly man was brought to shame by your cross; he dug a pit and opened it up and fell into it himself; the horn of the lowly, O Christ, is lifted up in your resurrection. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The proclamation of righteousness to the nations as water has covered the seas, O Lover of man, for you have risen from the grave and revealed the splendour of the Trinity. Glory… Now… Glorious things are spoken of you, the living city of the King who reigns for ever. For through you, O Lady, God dwelt among those on earth. Katavasia: O Lord, the firm foundation of those that put their trust in You,* confirm the Church, which You have purchased with Your precious blood. Ode 4 Irmos: A mighty love you have shown to us, O Lord,* for you have given over to death for us your only-begotten Son;* therefore we thank you and cry to you:* Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Scars and bruises compassionately bearing, insult of blows enduring, long-patient under the spitting, O Christ; through these you have wrought my salvation. Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Life in mortal body, you conversed with deatiaor the sake of the misery of the poor and the sighing of the needy; and. destroying the destroyer, O glorified One, you raised up all with yourself, only Lover of man. Glory… Now… Remember, O Christ, your flock won by your Passion: visit the afflicted, accept the compassionate prayers of your Mother glorified and save it, O Lord, by your power. Katavasia: Your virtue, O Christ, has covered the heavens,* for proceeding forth from the Ark of Your sanctification, from Your undefiled Mother,* You have appeared in the temple of Your glory as an infant in arms,* and the whole world has been filled with Your praise. Ode 5 Irmos: Early I wake to you the Creator of all* and the peace which passes all understanding:* guide me in your ordinances,* for they are light. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Through the envy of the Jews handed over to an unrighteous judge, you, the all-seeing who judges all the earth in righteousness, delivered Adam from the ancient condemnation. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Christ, risen from the dead, grant peace to your churches in the invincible power of your cross, and save our souls. Glory… Now… You alone, the Ever-virgin who received the Word of God unbounded by the whole creation, are declared the holy tabernacle wider than the heavens. Katavasia: In a figure Isaiah saw God upon a throne,* lifted up on high and borne in triumph by angels of glory;* and he cried: “Woe is me! For I have seen beforehand God made flesh,* Lord of the light that knows no evening and King of peace.” Ode 6 Irmos: The deepest abyss of sins has surrounded me* and my spirit fails me;* but stretch out your mighty arm, O Lord my pilot, as to Peter,* and save me. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The abyss of mercy and pity has surrounded me in your tender descent, O Lord, for, made flesh and taking the form of a servant, you made me as God and glorified me with yourself. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The one who dealt death has undergone death through seeing the One put to death now brought to life: these things are the tokens of your Resurrection, O Christ, and the rewards of your pure Passion. Glory… Now… Only All-pure, beyond understanding you were mediator between the Creator and man, pray to your merciful Son for your stumbling servants and be our defender. Katavasia: The Elder, having seen with his eyes the salvation that was to come to the peoples,* cried aloud to You: ‘O Christ that comes from God, You are my God.’ Kontakion, Tone 3 You rose from the tomb, O compassionate Lord,* and led us out from the gates of death.* Today Adam exults and Eve rejoices,* and the prophets together with the patriarchs* unceasingly acclaim the divine might of Your power. Ikos Let heaven and earth dance together today and with one mind sing to Christ God for he has raised from the graves those held in bonds. All creation rejoices together and brings to our Creator and Redeemer of all its fitting songs. For today, as giver of life, with himself he drew mortal man from Hell and lifts him up to heaven, he dashes down the pride of the enemy and breaks in pieces the gates of Hell by the divine might of his authority. Ode 7 Irmos: As, long ago, your dew refreshed the three godly children in the Chaldean flames,* so shine with the enlightening fire of your Godhead* upon us who cry to you:* Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The fair veil of the temple was rent in the cross of the Creator, clearly announcing the hidden truth in the scriptures to the faithful who cry to you: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. When your side was pierced, O Christ, drops of your life-giving blood, flowing from God by divine dispensation, distilled upon the earth and re-made those born of the earth who cry to you: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory… Now… Let us the faithful glorify the Good Spirit with the Father and the only-begotten Son, one in three, as we worship the first cause and one Godhead, crying: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Katavasia: O Word of God who in the midst of the fire* has dropped dew upon the children as they discoursed on things divine,* and who has taken up Your dwelling in the pure Virgin:* we praise You with piety we sing: O God of our fathers, blessed are You. Ode 8 Irmos: In the unbearable fire, unharmed by the flames,* the young men, famed for their fear of God, stood as one and sang the divine hymn:* Bless the Lord, all you his works,* and exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The brightness of the temple was rent when your cross was set on Golgotha: all creation bowed down together and raised the song: Bless the Lord, all you his works, and exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You have risen, Christ, from the grave, by the divine power of the cross you have raised man overthrown by treachery and set him straight again, crying out and saying: Bless the Lord, all you his works, and exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory… Now… You are declared to be the temple of God, living resting-place and ark, for you, pure Mother of God, have reconciled the Creator to mortal man and fittingly we his works sing your praises and exalt you throughout all the ages. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: Standing together in the unbearable fire, yet not harmed by the flame,* the children, champions of godliness, sang a divine hymn:* O all you works of the Lord,* bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: Marvel new and meet for God!* Through the shut gate of the Virgin the Lord surely passes through.* Unclothed in the entering, flesh-bearing in the coming forth* God has appeared and the gate remains fast closed.* We magnify her beyond utterance* the Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Word of God, awful it is to see you, the Creator, hanging on the tree, God suffering in human fashion for the sake of his servants; while lying lifeless in the tomb you yet had loosed the dead from Hell; for this, O Christ, we magnify you as almighty. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Laid dead in the grave, O Christ, you saved our forefathers from the corruption of death; you raised the dead and made life to blossom and, leading mortal nature by the hand to the light, you clothed it with divine incorruptibility; for this we magnify you, fountain of everliving light. Glory… Now… Temple and throne of God you are declared to be, All-pure, wherein he who dwells in the highest took up his abode, born without man and guarding entire the doors of your flesh. Holy One, by your unceasing prayers bring swiftly the nations in final subjection to our king. Katavasia: In the shadow and the letter of the Law, let us, the faithful, discern a figure:* every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God.* Therefore do we magnify the firstborn Word and Son of the Father without beginning,* the firstborn Child of a Mother who has not known a man. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light Truly Christ is risen.* Let no one doubt or be suspicious.* For He appeared to Mary and then to those who went fishing.* Then He appeared to His eleven apostles as they were eating.* He sent them forth to baptize the whole world;* then He ascended to heaven from which He had descended,* confirming His divine message by a multitude of miracles. Glory… Now… O Sun that has risen from the tomb on this day* as a groom from His bridal chamber,* You led Hades captive and trampled Death.* By the intercession of Your Mother,* send us light to enlighten our hearts and souls* and lead us that we may all walk* in the way of Your commandments and in the paths of peace. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 3 Come all you nations,* acknowledge the power of the dread mystery;* for Christ our Saviour, the beginningless Word,* was crucified for us and was willingly buried* and arose from the dead to save the whole universe.* Let us worship Him. You guards recounted all the marvels, O Lord,* but, by filling their right hands with money,* the Sanhedrin of folly thought to conceal Your Resurrection,* which the world glorifies;* have mercy upon us. All things have been filled with joy on receiving proof of the Resurrection.* For Mary Magdalene having come to the tomb,* found an Angel seated upon the stone,* radiant in shining raiment, saying:* Why do you seek the living among the dead?* He is not here, but He has arisen, as He foretold,* and goes before you into Galilee. In Your light, O Master and Lover of mankind,* shall we see light.* For arose from the dead,* granting salvation to the race of mankind,* wherefore all creation glorifies You, the only sinless one;* have mercy upon us. As a morning hymn, O Lord,* the Myrrh-bearing Women offered You their tears.* For bringing perfumes of sweet fragrances, they came to Your grave, eager to anoint Your most pure Body.* An angel seated upon the stone declared to them the good tidings:* Why do you seek the living among the dead?* For He has trampled down death, He has arisen as God,* granting to all His great mercy. A radiant Angel seated by You life-giving tomb* spoke to the Myrrh-bearing women saying:* The Redeemer has emptied the tombs,* He has despoiled Hades* and has arisen on the third day as alone God and all-powerful. On the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb seeking You.* When she did not find You, she lamented and cried out with grief:* Alas, my Saviour, how have You, the King of all, been stolen?* But a pair of radiant Angels from within the sepulchre cried out:* Why do you weep, woman?* I weep, she said, because they have taken my Lord from the tomb* and I know not where they have laid Him.* Whereupon, turning back and seeing You, she at once cried out:* My Lord and my God, glory be to You! The Hebrews shut Life within the tomb;* but the Thief opened the Paradise of pure delight with his voice when he cried aloud saying:* The One who was crucified with me and who was hung with me upon the tree* also appears to me seated upon a throne together with the Father.* For He is Christ our God, who has great mercy. Tone 3, Glory… The disciples were rebuked for the hardness of their hearts* because they doubted when Mary Magdalene proclaimed to them* the resurrection of the Saviour and His appearance to her.* But when they were strengthened with miracles and wonders,* they were sent out to preach.* And when You, O Lord, ascended to Your Father, the Source of all light,* the disciples preached throughout the world* verifying their words with wonders and miracles.* Therefore, we who were enlightened by them,* glorify Your resurrection from the dead, O Lover of mankind. 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 Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 3: Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 3: You rose from the tomb, O compassionate Lord,* and led us out from the gates of death.* Today Adam exults and Eve rejoices,* and the prophets together with the patriarchs* unceasingly acclaim the divine might of Your power. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 3: Today the Virgin stands before us in the church* and together with the choirs of saints invisibly prays to God for us.* Angels are worshipping with hierarchs,* Apostles exult with prophets,* for the Mother of God prays in our behalf to the eternal God. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 Sing to our God, sing; sing to our King, sing. verse: Clap your hands, all you nations; shout unto God with the voice of joy. (Psalm 46:7,2) Epistle 1 Timothy 1:15-17 Alleluia, Tone 3 verse: In You, O Lord, have I hoped that I may not be put to shame for ever. verse: Be a protector unto me, O God, and a house of refuge to save me. (Psalm 30:2,3) Gospel Luke 18:35-43 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Jan 25, 2025 - 🕂 Our Holy Father Gregory the Theologian, Archbishop of Constantinople.

Sat, 25 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 25, 2025 Polyeleos Feast. GREAT VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! By your words of wisdom, Gregory the theologian,* you have glorified Him who is worshipped in Trinity:* the consubstantial Godhead: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit!* You have withered the vanity of false philosophers,* boldly proclaiming the truth with your godly preaching. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. By your words of wisdom, Gregory the theologian,* you have glorified Him who is worshipped in Trinity:* the consubstantial Godhead: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit!* You have withered the vanity of false philosophers,* boldly proclaiming the truth with your godly preaching. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let us sing the praises of the prince of bishops,* the great teacher of the church of Christ,* the mighty organ of the Spirit of God;* the well-tuned lyre, the sweet-sounding harp:* rejoice, depth of divine grace!* Rejoice, heavenly and exalted mind:* Gregory, father and theologian! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You ascended the mountain of virtue, renouncing all earthly cares.* With dead works you held no fellowship;* as Moses received from the hand of God the tables of the law of life,* so you were given the pure dogmas of your theology,* by which you teach us heavenly mysteries,* Most wise father Gregory. Tone 1 From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The grave, the means of forgetfulness, did not close your mouth, father Gregory,* for you have been revealed as the voice of theology,* declaring now to the whole world the teachings of the faith!* Pray that peace and great mercy may be granted to our souls! For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. The grave, the means of forgetfulness, did not close your mouth, father Gregory,* for you have been revealed as the voice of theology,* declaring now to the whole world the teachings of the faith!* Pray that peace and great mercy may be granted to our souls! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You wisely turned from the hostile and treacherous flesh,* and mounting the heaven-bound chariot, father Gregory,* you were drawn by the virtues as by four horses!* You soared aloft into ineffable beauty!* Now as you delight in it,* grant our souls peace and great mercy! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Through grace you were a faithful mediator between God and men.* Now, as you brought Christ, mercifully turned toward us, father Gregory,* by your bold prayers, never cease to pray to Him, venerable one,* that He may grant our souls peace and great mercy! Tone 6, Glory… Faithful, let us assemble!* Let us celebrate in spiritual songs the prince of bishops and the glory of patriarchs,* the interpreter of the words and thoughts of Christ.* Let us honour him whom God exalted with a heavenly mind:* rejoice, fountain of theology and river of wisdom;* the abyss of divine contemplation!* Rejoice, brilliant star, enlightening the world with true doctrine!* Rejoice, fearless opponent of error and powerful defender of truth!* Most wise Gregory the theologian, never cease to pray to Christ our God* for those who celebrate your God-pleasing and honourable memory* with faith and love! Now… Who would not call you blessed, O Virgin most holy?* Who would not sing a hymn of praise* to the glory of your giving birth without pain or travail?* The Only-begotten Son Himself,* begotten of the Father before all ages,* was made flesh out of you in a manner* that cannot be explained, O Woman most pure!* And for our sake, He Who is God by nature* assumed the nature of a man.* He is not divided into two persons;* He is understood to have two natures* without commixion or confusion.* O noble and blessed Woman,* intercede with Him that He may mercy on our souls. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Readings (1) Proverbs 10:6-8; 8:6-21; (2) Wisdom 8:17-21; 9:1-4; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15 Aposticha Tone 5 Opening your mouth, directed by the Word of God,* you have partaken of the Spirit of Wisdom:* full of grace, you proclaimed divine doctrine, thrice-blessed Gregory.* You have imitated the ceaseless worship of the angelic host,* preaching on earth the triune and undivided Light.* Illumined by your divine teaching we confess the one Godhead in Trinity,* pray for the salvation of our souls. My mouth shall speak wisdom; and the meditation of my heart shall be understanding. With your tongue of fire, divinely-inspired Gregory,* you burned to ashes the false teachings of the enemies of God.* You have appeared to us as a man with divine words,* speaking in the spirit of the mighty works of God,* writing for us of the hidden mystery of the Trinity of Persons,* equal in power and one in essence.* You have enlightened the ends of the earth as a radiant sun:* never cease to pray for the salvation of our souls. The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice. Rejoice, river of God, full of the waters of grace,* gladdening the ransomed people of Christ the King with divine teaching:* rejoice, torrent of delight and inexhaustible sea of truth,* faithful and just guardian of doctrine, undefeated warrior of the holy Trinity,* organ of the Holy Spirit and ever-vigilant mind,* your words explain the deep mysteries of the Scriptures:* pray to Christ, that He may grant our souls great mercy! Tone 8, Glory... You have cultivated the hearts of believers by your words, Gregory:* you have yielded abundant fruit for God:* an ever-green pasture of righteousness.* You have torn out by the roots the thorns of heresy,* cleansing the world by your divine reasoning.* We faithful in joy offer praise to you:* inspired lyre and ever-vigilant mind,* faithful shepherd of the flock of Christ,* never cease to pray to the Word, theologian,* that He will deliver from the wolf all those who honour your memory. Now… O Virgin, You have never known wedlock,* Yet You conceived God in the flesh* in a manner which words can never describe.* You thus became the Mother of God on high.* O Immaculate Lady, receive the supplication of your servants* and grant us the cleansing of our sins.* Accept now our prayers and beseech God to save all of us. Troparia Tone 1 Like a shepherd’s flute, O Father Gregory* your theology vanquished the trumpets of orators,* for searching the depths of the spirit,* beauty of speech was increased in you.* Pray Christ God that our souls may be saved. Glory… Now… O Holy Tabernacle, when Gabriel called out to you:* Rejoice, O Virgin, full of grace,* the Lord of All became incarnate of you,* as the righteous David had foretold.* In bearing your Creator, you have shown yourself to surpass the vastness of the heavens.* We, therefore, cry out: Glory to Him Who dwelt in you!* Glory to Him Who came forth from you!* Glory to Him Who has set us free* through your life-giving birth! DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Like a shepherd’s flute, O Father Gregory* your theology vanquished the trumpets of orators,* for searching the depths of the spirit,* beauty of speech was increased in you.* Pray Christ God that our souls may be saved. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 3: O glorious saint, your tongue, versed in theology,* loosed the webs of vain philosophers;* you adorned the Church with a robe of true belief woven on high.* Wearing it she cries with us, your children:* Rejoice, O Father, highest mind of theology. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 My mouth shall speak wisdom* and the meditation of my heart understanding. verse: Hear these things, all you nations; give ear all you inhabitants of the world. (Psalm 48:4,2) Epistle 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Give heed, O my people, to my law, incline your ears to the words of my mouth. verse: I will open my mouth in parables, and proclaim secrets from of old. (Psalm 77,1-2) Gospel John 10:9-16 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 24, 2025 - Our Venerable Mother Xenia the Roman.

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 24, 2025 Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Like spiritual rivers issuing forth separately from Eden, О wise ones,* you have watered the whole earth and, having ploughed it,* have sown the preaching of salvation and reaped right fruitful grain, the souls of the saved,* laying them up in the noetic granaries like riches of great price,* О disciples of the Lord. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. From the darkness of passions and pleasures free my heart,* which is sorely distressed by the passions,* О you who are luminaries of the noetic East, most radiant heralds of the Sun,* who announce to all Him who has banished the night of unbelief.* Him do you entreat, that He enlighten also our minds,* in that you were eyewitnesses to Him. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Bearing the saving Word* which was written by the Spirit through the finger of the Father,* you were truly shown to be divinely inscribed tablets of the new grace,* initiates of His mysteries and animate scrolls;* wherefore, you traversed all the ends of the earth,* manifestly showing all mankind the orthodox faith* and the path which leads to the heavens. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. First, you transformed your love:* You made yourself faithful by the higher action of your mind.* You departed from the crookedness of pleasure's vanity* and becoming a stranger, blessed one,* you rightly walked by the hard ascent of virtue. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You hastened to the godly haven,* calmly passing through the waves of the storm of life.* You steered the ship of your soul without foundering* through the bitterness of pleasures, most honoured one,* loaded with spiritual cargo! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You became a stranger in godly emulation* of Him Who for our sake came from on high to raise up the fallen. * Unknown, you lived among your relatives, wise one!* You ever pray to God, Xenia, on behalf of the faithful. Tone 2, Glory… Now… Like a great Sun, the Word, who is equal in honour with the Father and the Spirit,* and who in latter times shone forth upon the earth through the divine Virgin Maiden,* emitted you, О glorious apostles,* like rays illumining with the light of Faith all mankind* which languishes in the darkness of delusion,* leading them to Him with divine teachings. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 2 Throughout the whole world You magnified the names of Your preeminent apostles, О Saviour,* for they learned heavenly things and imparted ineffable healings to mortals.* They who were fishermen healed diseases by their handkerchiefs alone;* they who were Jews theologized the doctrines of grace.* For their sake, О You who are full of loving-kindness,* grant us great mercy. In the morning, fill us with Your love; we shall exult and rejoice all our days. Give us joy to balance our affliction for the years when we knew misfortune. Show forth Your work to Your servants; let Your glory shine on their children. We, who are ever assailed by the actions of the unrighteous,* yet truly find refuge in You, who are God,* offer to You the voice of Your disciples, saying:* Save us, О our Instructor, for we are perishing!* And we pray: Show now to our enemies that You protect and save from misfortunes* those who have recourse to the supplications of the apostles,* overlooking their sins in Your great goodness.* О Lord, glory be to You! Let the favour of the Lord be upon us: give success to the work of our hands, give success to the work of our hands. Great is the glory you have acquired by faith;* for you not only vanquished the enemy in your sufferings,* but in death you drive away evil spirits and heal the infirm, О physicians of souls and bodies.* Pray to the Lord, that our souls may find mercy. Tone 2, Glory… Now… Like a fruitful olive tree,* the Virgin brought You forth as the Fruit of life,* bearing to the world, the fruit of rich and great mercy. Troparia Tone 8 The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O mother,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh which passes* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* And so, O venerable woman, Xenia,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Glory… Now… When the Mother beheld upon the cross* the Lamb, the Shepherd, and the Saviour of the world,* she exclaimed tearfully:* The world rejoices at the sight of its redemption,* but my heart is afire as I see Your pain on the cross,* which You accept for the sake of all, O my Son and my God! DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O mother,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh which passes* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* And so, O venerable woman, Xenia,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: For love of the Lord, O venerable woman,* you scorned the desire for rest and enlightened your soul through fasting,* for you have mightily conquered the beasts.* Through your prayers thwart the rage of fiends. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 God is wonderful in His saints,* the God of Israel. verse: Bless God in the churches, the Lord from the fountains of Israel. (Psalm 67:36,27) Epistle James 2:1-13 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: With expectation I have waited for the Lord, and he was attentive to me, and He heard my prayer. verse: He brought me out of the pit of misery and the mud of the swamp. (Psalm 39:2,3) Gospel Mark 10:23-32 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 23, 2025 - Blessed Martyrs of Pratulyn: Vincent, Nykyta, Ivan, Constantine, Michael, Onuphriy, Philip, Maxim, Daniel, Constantine, Bartholomew, Luke, and Ignatius; The Holy Hieromartyr Clement, Bishop of Ancyra; The Holy Martyr Agathangel.

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 23, 2025 A day when the faithful are highly encouraged to participate in the Divine Liturgy. VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Blessed martyrs, you defeated the enemy by the power of your spirit,* courageously standing in the holy faith, and laying down your lives for it,* now you stand before the Most High,* asking of Him for peace to our country,* and great mercy to 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. Shining like the sun, in the land of darkness and violence,* showing the light of the Catholic faith, for which you suffered,* perishing from steel bullets, giving your souls,* you gave yourselves into the hands of the Almighty Lord. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Neither hunger nor trouble, nor the atrocities of enemies,* nor a truly blessed death, could separate you from the love of God,* and like lambs to the slaughter,* you followed Your shepherd,* for this you received heavenly crowns,* pray unceasingly for our souls. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. How shall we call you blessed, O warriors of the great King and God,* who bravely defeated impiety,* which could not force you to renounce the faith of your parents,* from Him you have received an eternal reward,* so pray to Him that our souls may be saved. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. How shall we glorify you, O blessed Nykyta, Vincent, Ivan and Constantine,* Michael, Onufriy, Philip the glorious,* who shone with divine light in the darkness that enveloped our land,* and now you enlighten us, keeping us in peace and unity,* pray without ceasing that our souls may be saved. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. How do you enlighten us, O long-suffering Maxim, Danylo and Constantine,* Bartholomew, Luke and Ignatius,* so that we do not go astray, and do not follow the enemy of our souls,* you have defeated him, O ascetics of the holy faith,* so pray that our souls may be saved. Tone 6, Glory… Rejecting ungodly counsel, enduring courageously in temptation,* and accepting the martyr’s crown,* O glorious martyrs, you glorified the Lord Christ,* with whom you now reign forever,* pray to him unceasingly for all of us,* who honour your memory with faith. 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 have mercy on our souls. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Readings (1) Isaiah 43:9-14; (2) Wisdom 3:1-19; (3) Wisdom 5:15-6:3 Aposticha Tone 8 O thirteen most glorious martyrs,* you had a terrible death for nothing,* bravely standing in the defence of the holy faith,* clothed with heavenly glory, you are counted among the righteous,* with whom we glorify you. The just cried out, and the Lord heard them. O thirteen most glorious martyrs,* accepting the cup of patience,* you invoked the divine name, God Almighty,* who gave you strength to endure,* and graced you with glory and eternal light, O God-seers. Many are the trials of the just,* but out of them all, the Lord will save them. O thirteen invincible martyrs,* you voluntarily gave yourselves to death,* sanctifying your native land with your blood,* in which your descendants followed this path of martyrdom,* therefore, today, celebrating your memory, we ask you:* ask Christ for great mercy for our people. Tone 3, Glory… Let us come today and glorify our martyrs* who met their enemies without hatred,* who came with their ungodly intentions,* to persuade them to apostatize from their faith,* they gave up their lives for this,* and the Lord accepted their sacrifice,* so now crowned with a heavenly crown, pray for our souls. 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 Tone 1 Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory… Now… You have borne the fire of the Godhead without being burned;* you have given birth to the Lord, the Source life,* O Mother of God and woman full of grace,* save all those who exalt you. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle James 1:19-27 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Mark 10:17-27 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Jan 22, 2025 - The Holy Apostle Timothy; The Holy Venerable-Martyr Anastasius the Persian.

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 22, 2025 VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Manifestly illumined by the rays of the Spirit,* O divinely revealed Timothy,* you were shown to be a most radiant beacon,* passing over all the earth and enlightening it with grace.* Pray now, that our souls be granted peace* and great mercy. 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 Timothy,* you drank of the torrent of sweetness* and, emulating Christ, with godly wisdom have given drink* to those who fervently desire the understanding of God.* To Him have you now joyously departed,* contemplating the all-radiant glory of the Trinity* and infinitely powerful peace. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Placing yourself in submission to Paul,* conversing with the Spirit through writing,* you became wholly radiant with light,* a generous husbandman, and an earnest favorite of the Lord,* living in chastity and piety, O divinely wise Timothy;* and you have been vouchsafed crowns of victory* as a lawful athlete. 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. O most blessed Anastasius, boast of the martyrs,* who achieved splendid victories over falsehood,* you bear in your name a standard of fame,* being borne aloft everywhere as a steadfast victor.* And now do you raise up from sinful falls* those who honor your memory with faith. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O martyr Anastasius,* achieving a splendid victory over falsehood,* you received a twofold crown for your ascetic struggle* and your steadfast contest, and your opposition, even unto death.* And Christ the Master has given you* the ability to work miracles, as is meet. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The ends of the world now hymn your miracles,* O wonder-worker Anastasius;* for Christ has adorned you,* rewarding with miracles you who endured tortures for His sake;* and after your death you were counted worthy* of immortal glory and blessedness. Tone 8, Glory… Chosen by God before to be the disciple of the wise Paul,* you learned things divine;* and having lived in goodness and preserved the Faith unadulterated* even unto the shedding of your blood,* you were shown to be a faithful hierarch, O Apostle Timothy.* Therefore, you denounced the idolaters* and, wounded by staves and stones,* received the crown of martyrdom.* Wherefore, O most blessed one, pray for us who celebrate* your most honored memory with faith. Tone 8, Now… When the most pure one beheld You led to the slaughter,* following You with tears she cried aloud:* Where have You gone, O my Son?* I can no longer bear not beholding You* O my abundantly merciful Jesus.' Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 2 О Christ God my Saviour, who saved Peter in the sea,* save me by the power of the Cross,* and have mercy on me. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Those who ever enjoyed Your gifts cried out, “Crucify Him!”;* those who slew the righteous ones asked that a malefactor be given to them in place of the Benefactor.* But You kept silence, О Christ,* enduring their savagery, desiring to suffer and thus save us,* in that You love mankind. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. The choirs of the martyrs opposed the tyrants, saying:* “We fight for the King of hosts!* And even if you have subjected us to fire and tortures,* we will not reject the power of the Trinity!” Tone 2, Glory… O Christ, You magnified the power of the precious Cross* in Judea and in Babylon,* for because of it they came to know* the feast of Your life-creating resurrection:* And now the right laudable and glorious athlete Anastasius,* a martyr of countless miracles,* has become for them a liberator* from the captivity of the madness of idolatry,* joining chorus with the angels and praying for our souls. Now… Having endured many pangs during the crucifixion of thy Son and God, O most pure one, * you groaned, weeping and crying aloud:* “Woe is me, O my sweet Child!* How is it that you suffer unjustly,* desiring to deliver the mortal descendants of Adam?”* Wherefore, O most pure Virgin, we entreat you with faith:* Render Him merciful to us! Troparia Tone 4 Having learned goodness and maintaining continence in all things,* you were divinely arrayed with a good conscience as befits a priest* and you drew ineffable truths from the chosen vessel.* You have kept the faith* and completed a course equal to his, bishop and martyr Timothy.** Pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved! Tone 4, Glory… Your holy martyr Anastasius, O Lord,* through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God!* For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,* and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.** Through his intercessions, save our souls! Now… O Virgin, all immaculate Mother of Christ God,* a sword pierced your all-holy soul* when you saw your Son and God willingly crucified.* Therefore, O blessed One,* never cease to pray to Him* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Having learned goodness and maintaining continence in all things,* you were divinely arrayed with a good conscience as befits a priest* and you drew ineffable truths from the chosen vessel.* You have kept the faith and completed a course equal to his, bishop and martyr Timothy.* 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 1: Let us the faithful praise the holy apostle Timothy,* the companion of Paul in his travels* and together with him let us honour the wise Anastasius,* who came as a star from Persia for the healing of our souls’ passions and our bodies’ disease! Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hands. (Psalm 18:5,2) Epistle James 1:1-18 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 Mark 10:11-16 Communion Hymn Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5):

Jan 21, 2025 - Our Venerable Father Maximus the Confessor; The Holy Martyr Neophytus; The Holy Martyrs Eugene, Candidus, Valerian, and Aquilas

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 21, 2025 VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O venerable Maximus, you preached Him who, in His loving-kindness,* became man in His good pleasure,* who is known as having two wills and activities;* and you have stopped the gaping mouths of the abominable ones* who, by the temptation of the devil, the author of evil,* worship Him as having a single will and activity. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. With the cords of your doctrines, O father Maximus,* you strangled Pyrrhus, the evil-minded trifler,* and endured persecution and tribulations,* O ever-memorable one, cruelly wounded, your tongue cut off,* and the divine hand, which is ever stretched forth to God,* by writing you have wrought exalted words. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O blessed one, your tongue was holy, sharpened by the Spirit* like the pen of scribe, inscribing the law of the divine virtues* with comely letters of grace upon the tablets of our hearts* and imparting by your doctrine the incarnation for men, in two essences,* of Him who desired to appear in a single Hypostasis. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O all-glorious wonder!* The dove which came from on high converses with the martyr Neophytus in human speech!* He is resplendent in the angelic life* by which he suffered mightily, though but a youth.* O, the godly works of the martyr tortured in five ways!* By his supplications save our souls, O Christ,* as You are compassionate. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O all-glorious wonder!* Neophytus of perfect wisdom, from earliest infancy* performs miracles through the activity of the Spirit:* by his entreaties he causes water to pour forth from a rock,* and raises up the dead woman, whose offspring he was.* O, the godly works of the martyr tortured in five ways!* By his supplications save our souls, O Christ,* as You are compassionate. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O all-glorious wonder!* The thrice-blessed Neophytus suffered for Christ,* put to fright the enemy with his excellent visions,* quenched the fire when he was cast therein,* and shows savage beasts to be terrified.* O, the invincible might wherein the athlete causes all to marvel!* By his supplications save us, O God! Tone 6, Glory… O venerable father, word of your corrections has gone forth into all the earth.* You have found the reward of your labours in the heavens,* have destroyed hordes of the demons, and attained to the ranks of the angels,* whose life you blamelessly emulated.* As you have boldness before Christ, ask peace for our souls. Now… О most holy Virgin, show forth upon me, the wretched one,* the depths of your love for mankind,* the abyss of your tender compassion, and the countless compassions of thy goodness.* Mow down the stubble of sin, granting me chastity,* and preserve my body and soul undefiled,* О you who have given birth to the Saviour. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 2 Like the prodigal son I have sinned against You, О Saviour.* Accept me who am penitent, О Father.* Have mercy upon me, О God! I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. With the cry of the publican I cry out to You, О Christ my Saviour:* Cleanse me as You did him,* and have mercy on me, О God! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. When the holy martyrs pray for us and hymn Christ,* all delusion ceases, and the race of mankind is saved by faith. Tone 8, Glory… We honour you as the instructor of a multitude of monks, O Maximus our father;* for by your steps have we truly learned to walk aright.* Blessed are you who, serving Christ, denounced the power of the enemy,* O converser with the angels, companion of the venerable and the righteous.* With them beseech the Lord, that our souls find mercy. Now… Rejoice, praise of the universe!* Rejoice, temple of the Lord!* Rejoice, mountain overshadowed!* Rejoice, refuge of all!* Rejoice, golden candlestick!* Rejoice, honoured glory of the Orthodox!* Rejoice, Mary, Mother of Christ God!* Rejoice, paradise! Rejoice, divine table!* Rejoice, tabernacle! Rejoice, golden jar!* Rejoice, hope of all! Troparia Tone 8 Guide of orthodoxy, teacher of piety and purity,* luminary of the world, inspired adornment of monks, O wise Maximus,* you have enlightened all by your teachings, O spiritual trumpet.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Tone 4, Glory… O Lord our God, your holy martyr Neophyte* has deserved the crown of immortality* on account of his good fight.* Armed with Your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through his supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Now… Let us poor sinners hasten with fervour to the Mother of God;* let us humbly kneel before her and say from the depth of our hearts:* O Lady, be kind to us and help us.* Hasten, for we are perishing under a multitude of sins.* Do not turn away your servants empty-handed,* for you are their only hope and protection. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: Guide of orthodoxy, teacher of piety and purity,* luminary of the world, inspired adornment of hierarchs (or: monks), O wise Maximus,* you have enlightened all by your teachings, O spiritual trumpet.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: You took delight in self-control, O wise one,* and you put the desires of the flesh to sleep.* You were seen to have grown in faith;* and, like the Tree of Life in Paradise, you flourished, O holy father, Maximus. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The venerable ones will exult in glory* and they shall be joyful in their beds. verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; let His praise be in the assembly of the venerable ones. (Psalm 149:5,1) Epistle Hebrews 12:25-26; 13:22-25 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 Mark 10:2-12 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Jan 20, 2025 - Our Venerable and God-bearing Father Euthemius the Great.

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 20, 2025 Polyeleos Feast. GREAT VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is taken. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! A heavenly angel was sent beforehand to announce your birth, father Euthymius.* Like John, you came from the womb of a barren woman* and you showed yourself to be his follower.* You were a homeless one who spurned possessions,* sharing his way of life.* Like the Baptist, you sustained yourself in the mountains,* shining forth with boundless miracles! Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. A heavenly angel was sent beforehand to announce your birth, father Euthymius.* Like John, you came from the womb of a barren woman* and you showed yourself to be his follower.* You were a homeless one who spurned possessions,* sharing his way of life.* Like the Baptist, you sustained yourself in the mountains,* shining forth with boundless miracles! If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. You brought forth fruit from barrenness, father Euthymius.* You were shown to have many children indeed,* for the desert that once was trackless was filled with monastics,* your spiritual offspring.* Pray now that our souls may be granted peace and great mercy! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for You excelled in your life, father Euthymius,* and your faith was truly orthodox.* Through activity you reached the highest vision* and became a dwelling of wisdom.* You worshipped Christ in two natures as one of the Trinity.* Pray to Him on our behalf! it has trusted in the Lord. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. You shared in the sufferings of Him* who was stretched upon the cross, father Euthymius.* Through asceticism you conformed yourself indeed to His resurrection and glory!* Entreat Him now that he may grant our souls* peace and great mercy! Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You were sanctified from your mother's womb* when the eye of Him who sees all things perceived* your purpose and desire ever leading towards higher things.* Most blessed one, He declared you to be a gift of God,* the namesake of good courage.* He loosed the sorrow of your parents.* You advanced from infancy pleasing God, our Benefactor.* Beseech Him that He may save and enlighten our souls! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Christ found you to be a clear mirror of divine revelations.* He enlightened you with the radiant splendour of His light.* He filled you with divine gifts, father.* You were revealed to be a source flowing with healings,* a feeder of the hungry,* watering with rains the desire of those who thirst.* Looking upon souls as pledges, wise one,* by your teaching, you helped them towards God.* Entreat Him that He may save and enlighten our souls! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Your angelic life shone with vision and activity* as a standard and excellent model of virtue* for those who desire to worship God in perfection!* Your divinely-wise teaching, Euthymius,* taught all to worship the Trinity,* that Christ is known to be one in two natures* and that the councils were equal in number to Christ's four gospels.* Entreat Him that He may save and enlighten our souls! Tone 3, Glory… As another Samuel, father Euthymius,* you were dedicated to God from your mother's womb.* Indeed, you were fittingly called by your name,* for you are good courage to all believers,* a foundation and pillar of the monastic way,* a sanctified temple of the Holy Spirit.* Pray for us who honour you,* that we may be granted great mercy! Now… O Lady most honourable,* how can we but be rapt in wonder* at you giving birth to the Incarnate God* who, without a mother, was born of the Father before all ages?* You gave Him birth in the flesh without a father,* without a man instrumentality.* He is God and man whose two natures are intact,* neither one losing any of its properties.* Therefore, O Virgin Mother,* intercede with Him to save the souls* of those who believe and confess in true faith* that you are the Mother of God. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Readings (1) Wisdom 3:1-9; (2) Wisdom 5:15-6:3; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15 Aposticha Tone 5 Rejoice, venerable father,* for you are the cause of good courage for the Church!* By your birth all the assaults of heretics were repelled by the providence of God!* Therefore he named you Euthymius, or good courage.* You filled the ranks of heavenly beings with joy by the brilliance of your life!* Now as you make your dwelling with them, filled with light,* and enjoy the most blessed and divine radiance,* entreat Christ that He may grant great mercy to our souls. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints! Made firm by the staff of the cross,* you dried up the sea of iniquity.* Spiritually watered by the stream of divine sweetness and the rivers of paradise,* you revealed springs of salvation in the desert!* You were watered like a palm tree with streams of the divine Spirit.* You hastened to the heights of heaven, venerable one,* showing yourself a fiery pillar of light-bearing radiance.* Therefore, divinely wise one,* entreat Christ that He may grant great mercy to our souls! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; who greatly delights in is commandments! You have passed over indeed with joy and gladness of soul* to the wonderful tabernacle, the house of God.* There, most blessed father, you listen to the beautiful voices,* the sweet hymns and ineffable delight of those who keep the feast.* You share in their beauty, Euthymius.* This alone you desired as you crucified your flesh and you reached it,* adorned with the righteousness of God.* Entreat Christ that He may grant the world great mercy! Glory... You gave your eyes no sleep, righteous father,* nor your eyelids slumber, until you freed your soul and body of passions.* You prepared yourself to be the dwelling of the Holy Spirit,* for you became the companion of the consubstantial Trinity,* for Christ who alone shows us the Father,* came to live in you, all-praised Euthymius.* Pray to Him that our souls may be saved! Now… We faithful bless you, Theotokos;* we fittingly glorify you, the unshaken city, the fortified wall,* the fervent intercessor and protector of our souls! Troparia Tone 4 Be glad, O barren desert;* take heart, you who have never known labor.* For a man of the desires of the Spirit* has multiplied your children.* He planted them in godliness* and reared them with self-mastery to perfection in virtues.* By his prayers, Christ God, grant peace to our lives. Glory… Now… O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created man,* and saved our souls from death. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Be glad, O barren desert;* take heart, you who have never known labour.* For a man of the desires of the Spirit* has multiplied your children.* He planted them in godliness* and reared them with self-mastery to perfection in virtues.* By his prayers, Christ God, grant peace to our lives. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 8: Creation found joy in your precious birth* and in your divine memorial it takes courage from your many miracles.* Grant a rich share of your wonders to our souls, O Venerable Father,* and cleanse the stains of sin that we may sing: Alleluia. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His venerable ones. verse: What shall I render to the Lord for all the things He has rendered to me? (Psalm 115:15,12) Epistle Hebrews 13:17-21 Alleluia, Tone 6 verse: Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; he shall delight exceedingly in His commandments. verse: His posterity shall be mighty upon the earth. (Psalm 111:1,2) Gospel Luke 6:17-23 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 19, 2025 - 35th Sunday after Pentecost; Octoechos Tone 2; 🕃 Our Venerable Father Macarius of Egypt.

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 19, 2025 Saint with Six Stichera. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name. Come, let us adore God the Word,* who was born of the Father before all ages,* and was incarnate of the Virgin Mary;* for of His own free will He suffered the Cross* and submitted Himself to burial,* and arose from the dead to save me, a sinful one. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me. Christ our Saviour cancelled the decree that was written against us,* by nailing it to the Cross;* and He abolished the dominion of Death.* Let us glorify His resurrection on the third day. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Let us, together with the archangels, sing of Christ’s resurrection;* for He is the Redeemer and Saviour of our souls.* He will come again in awesome glory and mighty power* to judge the world which He has fashioned. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Although You died and were buried,* the angel yet declared You as Master.* He said to the women: Come and see where the Lord was placed;* for He is risen as He foretold,* because He is almighty.* Therefore, we worship You, the only Immortal One,* and we beseech You to have mercy on us, O Giver of Life. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O Christ, You have abolished the curse of the tree by Your Cross;* You have destroyed the power of death by Your burial,* and You enlightened the human race by Your resurrection.* Therefore, we cry out to You:* O God and Benefactor, glory to You! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O Lord, the gates of death opened before You in fear,* and the gatekeepers of Hades were filled with dread at the sight of You.* You smashed the gates of brass and crushed the posts of iron.* Then You burst our chains asunder,* and led us out from the darkness, away from the shadow of death. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Let us all come and prostrate ourselves in the house of the Lord,* singing this hymn of salvation:* O Christ, You were crucified on the tree and rose from the dead;* and You now abide in the bosom of the Father.* Please cleanse us of our sins. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Reaching out, inspired one,* for blessedness surpassing thought,* you took abstinence for luxury;* poverty for wealth,* lack of possessions as true abundance* and humility for glory!* As you intended, you reached your heart's desire, Macarius:** Now you dwell in the mansions of the saints! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You completed the course of ascetic life without wavering,* and you kept the faith, Father!* Thus you gained a crown of righteousness prepared for you by Christ,* Who grants the prizes of victory,* bestowing the gifts and rewards of labours.** Pray now, God-bearing one, that we also may run this course! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You denied yourself every pleasure,* divinely-wise one:* You pummelled your body and embittered your senses* through labours of hardship and abstinence,* through long-suffering in temptations and patience in adversities.* In their place you have received unending joy,**everlasting delight and ineffable glory! Tone 8, Glory… Rejoice, Egypt! You blossomed forth a great protector:* Macarius, the blessed!* He shone with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit,* transcending all asceticism with his virtuous way of life.* We offer him as mediator, beseeching him** that he may intercede with Christ that our souls may be saved! Tone 2, 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. 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 2 Your Resurrection, O Christ our Saviour,* has enlightened the whole universe;* and, through it, You call back to Yourself all Creation.* Almighty God, glory to You! The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength. By the wood of Your Cross, O Saviour,* You have abolished the curse of the tree;* by Your burial You have destroyed the power of death;* and by Your resurrection You enlightened the human race.* We, therefore, cry out to You:* O Christ our God, Giver of Life, glory to You! For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved. O Christ, when You were nailed to the Cross,* the distorted nature of creation was made manifest.* The soldiers showed their inhumanity by piercing Your side with a lance,* and the people showed their ignorance of Your power* by asking that Your tomb be sealed.* But, in Your mercy, You accepted burial* and then arose on the third day.* O Lord, glory to You! Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days. O Christ, Giver of Life,* You freely endured the Passion for the sake of mortals.* In Your power You descended into Hades;* and snatching, as from a mighty monster, the souls of those who awaited Your coming,* You placed them in Paradise.* Therefore, show Your great mercy to us who glorify Your resurrection,* and cleanse our souls. Glory… 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 a mother to hold in her arms the Source of all Creation?* It was God’s own will to be born in this manner;* and you, O most pure 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 Tone 2 When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” Tone 1, Glory… Dweller of the wilderness and angel in the body!* You were a wonder-worker, our God-bearing father Macarius!* You received heavenly gifts through fasting, vigil, and prayer:* Healing the sick and the souls of those drawn to you by faith:* Glory to Him Who gave you strength!* Glory to Him Who granted you a crown!* Glory to Him Who through you grants healing to all! Now… O Holy Tabernacle, when Gabriel cried out to you:* Rejoice O Virgin, full of grace,* the Lord of all became incarnate of you,* as the righteous David had foretold.* In bearing your Creator, you have shown yourself to surpass the vastness of the heavens.* We, therefore, cry out: Glory to Him who dwelt in you!* Glory to Him who came forth from you!* Glory to Him who has set us free through your life-giving birth! GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 2 Troparia, Tone 2 When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” (2) Tone 1, Glory… Dweller of the wilderness and angel in the body!* You were a wonder-worker, our God-bearing father Macarius!* You received heavenly gifts through fasting, vigil, and prayer:* Healing the sick and the souls of those drawn to you by faith:* Glory to Him Who gave you strength!* Glory to Him Who granted you a crown!* Glory to Him Who through you grants healing to all! Now… O Holy Tabernacle, when Gabriel cried out to you:* Rejoice O Virgin, full of grace,* the Lord of all became incarnate of you,* as the righteous David had foretold.* In bearing your Creator, you have shown yourself to surpass the vastness of the heavens.* We, therefore, cry out: Glory to Him who dwelt in you!* Glory to Him who came forth from you!* Glory to Him who has set us free through your life-giving birth! Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 2 The noble Joseph having taken down You most pure Body from the tree,* wrapped it in a fine linen shroud* covering it with fragrant spices* and placed it in a new sepulchre;* but on the third day You arose, O Lord,* granting the world great mercy. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. The Angel standing by the tomb cried to the myrrh-bearing women,* ‘Myrrh is fitting for the dead,* but Christ has been revealed a stranger to corruption.* rather cry aloud: The Lord is risen,* granting the world great mercy!’ Glory… Now… You are highly glorified, O Virgin Theotokos,* and we sing your praise,* for through the Cross of your Son Hades has been overthrown,* Death has been slain,* and we who were dead have arisen and been granted life.* We have received Paradise, our ancient delight,* therefore with thanksgiving we glorify Christ our God* as mighty and alone plenteous in mercy. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 2 You did not prevent the grave stone from being sealed,* and having arisen You granted to all the rock of the Faith.* O Lord, glory be to You! I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. The choir of Your Disciples rejoices in harmony with the Myrrh-bearing women;* for with them we celebrate a common feast to the glory and honour of Your Resurrection.* Through them, O Lord who loves mankind,* grant Your people Your great mercy. Glory… Now… You are highly blessed, O Virgin Theotokos,* for through Him who was incarnate of you* Hades has been taken captive, Adam recalled, the curse slain, and Eve set free,* death has been put to death and we have been given life;* therefore with hymns we cry to you:* Blessed are You O Christ our God who has been thus well-pleased, glory be to You! Polyeleos Evlogitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 2 The women coming to Your grave after the Passion* to anoint Your body, O Christ God,* saw Angels in the tomb and were frightened,* for they heard a message from them:* The Lord has arisen, granting the world His great mercy. Hymn of Ascent, Tone 2 Antiphon 1 I raise the eyes of my heart to You in heaven, O Saviour.* Save me by Your radiance. Have mercy, O my Christ, on us who fail You every hour and in many ways,* and grant to us the means to return to You* in repentance before the end. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit belongs sovereignty,* sanctification and the quickening of creation,* for He is God, one in essence with the Father* and the Word. Antiphon 2 If the Lord was not among us,* who could be kept safe from the one* who is both our foe and a manslayer? Do not hand Your servant over to destruction, O my Saviour.* For like a lion they come up against me,* they who are my foes. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit belongs the source of life and its honour,* for, being God, He preserves all creation* by His power* in the Father through the Son. Antiphon 3 Those who trust in the Lord are like the holy mountain:* they are utterly unshaken* by the assaults of the enemy. Let not those who live for God* stretch out their hands in iniquity;* for with the rod of His word Christ forbids such things. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit all wisdom flows forth,* grace to the Apostles,* crowns to the Martyrs,* and to the Prophets, prophetic vision. Prokeimenon, Tone 2 Lord, rise up in Your anger, rise against the fury of my foes; my God, awake! You will give judgment. Let the company of nations gather round You. verse: Lord God, I take refuge in You. From my pursuers save me and rescue me. Let everything that lives, Tone 2 Gospel Mark 16:1-18 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 2 Ode 1 Irmos: Once his overwhelming power overturned the whole of Pharaoh's army in the deep;* but the Word made flesh, the Lord of glory, blotted out the wholly wretched sin. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The prince of this world in whose books we, who disobeyed your commands, were inscribed, O Good One, has been judged by your cross; attacking you as a mortal, he fell back from the power of your might and was exposed in his weakness. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Deliverer of the race of mortal men and author of incorruptible life, you came into the world: for you tore in pieces the grave clothes of death in your resurrection, and this we glorify. Gloriously he is glorified. Glory… Now… O pure one, and ever-Virgin, you are shown to be higher than all creatures seen and unseen; for you bore the Creator since he willed to take flesh in your womb; with boldness pray to him to save our souls. Katavasia: The Sun once shone with its rays upon dry land* in the midst of the deep.* For the water on both sides became firm as a wall* while the people crossed the sea on foot,* offering this song acceptable to God:* Let us sing to the Lord; for gloriously is He glorified. Ode 3 Irmos: The desert, the barren Church of the nations, has blossomed as a lily at your coming, O Lord;* in this my heart is made firm. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Creation at your Passion was put to confusion to see you in mean disguise and mocked by the lawless, you whose lightest nod had established the universe. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You fashioned me with your hands from the dust in your image; and when, through sin, I was crushed again into the dust of death, you, O Christ, went down with me to Hell and raised me up with yourself. Glory… Now… The ranks of angels were amazed and the hearts of men trembled, All-pure, at your giving birth; wherefore we reverence you in faith, O Mother of God. Katavasia: O Lord, the firm foundation of those that put their trust in You,* confirm the Church, which You have purchased with Your precious blood. Ode 4 Irmos: You came forth from the Virgin,* not an ambassador, not an angel,* but the Lord himself made flesh,* and saved my whole humanity. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You were standing, my God, before the judgment seat as one judged, not crying out, bringing, O Lord, judgment upon the nations. Thus, through your Passion, O Christ, you wrought salvation for the world. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. By your Passion the weapons of the enemies failed, by your descent into Hell the cities of the foe were destroyed and the insolence of the tyrant overthrown. Glory… Now… All we the faithful know you a haven of salvation, a fortified city unshaken, Lady Mother of God; for by your prayers you deliver our souls from danger. Katavasia: Your virtue, O Christ, has covered the heavens,* for proceeding forth from the Ark of Your sanctification, from Your undefiled Mother,* You have appeared in the temple of Your glory as an infant in arms,* and the whole world has been filled with Your praise. Ode 5 Irmos: Christ God, you are mediator between God and man:* through you, O Lord, we have access from the night of ignorance to your Father, the author of light. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You broke as the cedars, O Christ, the insolence of the enemy when, of your own will, O Lord, you were pleased to be lifted up in the flesh on the cypress, the pine and the cedar. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. They laid you in the lowest pit, O Christ, dead, without breath; but with your stripes you raised with yourself, O Saviour, the wounded and forgotten who slept in the graves. Glory… Now… Pray to your Son and Lord, pure Virgin, to grant deliverance to prisoners and peace from the hostile forces surrounding those who trust in you. Katavasia: In a figure Isaiah saw God upon a throne,* lifted up on high and borne in triumph by angels of glory;* and he cried: “Woe is me! For I have seen beforehand God made flesh,* Lord of the light that knows no evening and King of peace.” Ode 6 Irmos: Engulfed in sin's unfathomed depths* I cry to the fathomless deeps of your tender compassion;* God has brought me up* from corruption. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The righteous was judged as a criminal and nailed to the tree with the lawless with his own blood granting forgiveness to the guilty. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As by one man, the first Adam, death came of old to the world, so by one, the Son of God, resurrection has been revealed . Glory… Now… You knew no man, O Virgin, you bore a child and remained for ever virgin, revealing thus the signs of true divinity of your Son and God. Katavasia: The Elder, having seen with his eyes the salvation that was to come to the peoples,* cried aloud to You: ‘O Christ that comes from God, You are my God.’ Kontakion, Tone 2 You rose from the tomb, O almighty Saviour;* and Hades, seeing this wonder, was stricken with fear; and the dead arose.* Creation saw and rejoices with You, and Adam exults.* And the world, my Saviour, sings Your praises for ever. Ikos Light you are to those endarkened, resurrection you are to all and life to mortal man; and when you, the Saviour, raised up all with yourself and despoiled the might of death, when you, O Word, shattered the gates of Hell, the dead saw it and marvelled at the marvel and all creation rejoiced together in your resurrection, O Lover of man. For all of this we glorify and sing your coming down to us and all the universe, my Saviour, hymns you for ever. Ode 7 Irmos: The godless decree of the lawless tyrant* re-kindled the soaring flames,* Christ let fall on the God-fearing children the dew of the Spirit.* He is blessed and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your tender compassion, O Lord, would not allow you to see mankind beneath the sway of death but you came and saved him by your own blood, becoming man. He is blessed and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Seeing you clothed in the robe of vengeance, O Christ. Hell’s doorkeepers cowered in fear for you came to master, O Lord, the slave, the reasonless tyrant. He is blessed and glorious above all. Glory… Now… We know you the Holy of Holies, Virgin unspotted, Mother unwedded, for you alone bore the unchangeable God: by your divine giving birth you have shed incorruption on all the faithful. Katavasia: O Word of God who in the midst of the fire* has dropped dew upon the children as they discoursed on things divine,* and who has taken up Your dwelling in the pure Virgin:* we praise You with piety we sing: O God of our fathers, blessed are You. Ode 8 Irmos: Once in Babylon by divine command* the blazing furnace divided its work,* the Chaldaeans consuming, the faithful bedewing,* who sang: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The ranks of angels saw the garment of your flesh empurpled with your blood, in trembling amazement at the magnitude of your longsuffering, crying: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Through your rising, O Merciful, you have clothed my mortality with deathlessness; therefore in glad thanksgiving your chosen people raise to you a song of praise, crying: Truly death is swallowed up in victory. Glory… Now… The One inseparable from the Father and humanly, divinely, dwelling in your womb, you conceived without seed and brought forth inexpressibly, Birth-giver of God, all-pure. By this we know you the salvation of us all. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: Standing together in the unbearable fire, yet not harmed by the flame,* the children, champions of godliness, sang a divine hymn:* O all you works of the Lord,* bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: The Son of the unbegun Begetter, God and Lord, made flesh of the Virgin,* has appeared among us to bring light to the darkened places* and to gather the scattered together.* Therefore, we magnify the all-praised Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. On Golgotha, as in Paradise, there was planted, O Saviour, the thrice-happy tree of your pure cross, nourished by your blood divine and water; so from the wellspring of your holy side, O Christ, life has blossomed for us. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The crucified, the all-powerful, laid low the strong man armed, and the nature of man, lying below in the dungeon of Hell, he raised and placed on the Father's throne; coming in the midst of which we, worshipping, magnify you. Glory… Now… In the true faith singing, let us the faithful glorify the Trinity, three in number, one in substance, indivisible nature, supremely divine, triply shining light and never-setting radiance, the only uncompounded shedding light upon all. Katavasia: In the shadow and the letter of the Law, let us, the faithful, discern a figure:* every male child that opens the womb shall be sanctified to God.* Therefore do we magnify the firstborn Word and Son of the Father without beginning,* the firstborn Child of a Mother who has not known a man. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light When the myrrh-bearing women saw the stone rolled away, they rejoiced;* for they saw a young man sitting at the grave who said to them:* Behold, Christ is risen!* Say to Peter, the disciple of the Lord:* Hasten to the mountain in Galilee;* there you shall see Christ* as He had said to His friends. Glory… Now… At the time of Your conception, O Lord,* an angel said to the Virgin: Rejoice!* At the time of Your resurrection* an angel also rolled the stone away from Your glorious tomb.* Instead of sadness and death one proclaimed signs of joy;* the other announced You as the Source of life* extolling Your resurrection to the disciples and the women. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 2 Everything that breathes and every creature glorifies You, O Lord,* for through Your Cross You destroyed death* and thus shown the multitude of peoples Your Resurrection from the dead,* as You alone love mankind. Let the Jews tell how the soldiers lost the King they were guarding.* Why then did the stone not guard the rock of life?* Either let them give up the one who was buried or adore Him as risen,* exclaiming together with us:* Glory to the multitude of Your mercies:* O Saviour, glory be to You! Rejoice O peoples and be glad!* for an Angel sat upon the grave stone* and gave us good tidings saying:* Christ is risen from the dead* and has filled the universe with sweet fragrance.* Rejoice O peoples and be glad!' Before Your conception, O Lord,* an Angel brought the greeting ‘Rejoice’ to the one full of grace:* at Your Resurrection an Angel rolled away the stone from Your glorious grave.* The one revealed the signs of joy instead of sorrow;* the other instead of death has proclaimed to us the Master, and giver of life.* Wherefore we cry to You:* O Benefactor of all mankind,* Lord, glory be to You! The women sprinkled sweet spices* mingled with their tears upon Your grave,* but their mouths were filled with joy as they exclaimed,* The Lord hath arisen! Let the nations and the peoples praise Christ our God,* who willingly endured the Cross for us and suffered three days in Hades;* let them worship His Resurrection from the dead,* through which all the ends of the world have been enlightened. You were crucified, and Thou were buried, O Christ,* as You willed;* You have despoiled death as God and Master,* granting the world eternal life and Your great mercy. In truth, O wicked ones,* by sealing the tomb you have granted us a greater wonder;* for the guards having complete knowledge of that which took place were compelled by you to say* “while we slept the Disciples came and stole him.”* And who would steal a corpse, especially one that is naked?* But He has arisen by His own authority as God,* leaving behind His grave-clothes in the tomb.* Come, O Jews,* see that He did not burst the seals,* the One who has trampled on death* and granted mankind life without end* and His great mercy. Tone 2, Glory… They who were with Mary came and brought ointments,* but they wondered how they would achieve their goal.* However, they saw that the stone had already been rolled away,* and a divine angel appeared and gave peace to their troubled souls.* He said: The Lord Jesus has risen.* Therefore, proclaim to His disciples* that they should hasten to Galilee and behold Him risen from the dead;* for He is the Lord, the Giver of life. 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 2: You rose from the tomb, O almighty Saviour;* and Hades, seeing this wonder, was stricken with fear; and the dead arose.* Creation saw and rejoices with You, and Adam exults.* And the world, my Saviour, sings Your praises for ever. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 2: The tomb and death could not hold the Mother of God,* unceasing in her intercession and an unfailing hope of patronage,* for as the Mother of Life she was transferred to life* by Him Who had dwelt in her ever-virgin womb. Prokeimenon, Tone 2 The Lord is my strength and my song of praise, and He has become my salvation. verse: The Lord has indeed chastised me, but He has not delivered me to death. (Psalm 117:14,18) Epistle Colossians 3:12-16 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: The Lord will hear you in the day of tribulation; the name of the God of Jacob will shield you. verse: Lord, grant victory to the king and hear us in the day that we shall call upon You. (Psalm 19:2,10) Gospel Luke 18:18-27 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Jan 18, 2025 - 🕃 Our Holy Fathers and Archbishops of Alexandria Athanasius and Cyril.

Sat, 18 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 18, 2025 Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted tonight. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. You braved dangers and patiently suffered persecution,* righteous Athanasius, divine orator.* You exposed the wicked lies of Arius and his followers;* you proclaimed the doctrine of the true faith:* the Son and Spirit are one essence with the Father,* most blessed priest! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. The lightning-flash of your teaching* enlightens those in darkness.* You chase away all false doctrine.* You bore the brunt of battle for the faith,* Athanasius, uncompromised rock!* True shepherd and unshaken fortress of Christ's holy Church!* Therefore we assemble in your honour,* rejoicing to magnify you, all-praised one! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. You persistently advance in all virtue, God-inspired one;* consecrated priest,* divinely instructed and anointed by the Holy Spirit,* shepherd of truth and warrior of faith.* All the Church glorifies your memory;* through you she is perfected in holiness and glorifies the Saviour! For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. By the fire of your teachings, wise one,* the dry wood and chaff of heresy is burned away.* The host of the impious are drowned;* the faithless sink in the abyss of your teachings.* By your doctrine, blessed Cyril,* every member of the believing Church is adorned,* and with a mighty voice honours you. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Cyril, by the eloquence of your words, * the whole Church is adorned with piety.* Honouring the fruits your teaching has borne,* she glorifies your memory,* leader of the right-believing Fathers,* who defended the all-holy Theotokos as a champion at the council! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Cyril, using the staff of your teachings, * you chased the spiritual wolves from the Church.* You encircled her with the retaining wall of your words,* presenting her to Christ with unblemished doctrine.* Beseech Him to deliver us now from persecution and corruption* as we celebrate your honourable memory. Tone 6, Glory… Assemble, lovers of feasts!* Praise your leaders with spiritual songs!* They are our exalted patriarchs,* the all-radiant enlighteners of the world!* They have revealed the mystery of Christ to us.* Let us cry out to them:* Rejoice, wise Athanasius!* Your name means the immortal one.* Drawing a string from the lyre of your inspired doctrine,* you made a sling to drive Arius the wolf from the flock of Christ.* Rejoice, bright star, all blessed Cyril!* Champion of the ever-Virgin one!* In the midst of the council at Ephesus,* you defended the Theotokos with a roaring voice!* Rejoice, fountains of theology!* ever-flowing rivers of divine wisdom,* flooding your banks with knowledge of God.* Never cease to beseech Christ, thrice-blessed Fathers,* for those who keep your holy memory with faith and love! Tone 1, Now… Let us sing a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary,* glory of the whole world!* She was herself formed by human seed,* yet she became the Mother of the Master, the Gate of heaven,* the theme of the angels’ hymn and beauty of the faithful.* She was seen as being heavenly* and the Tabernacle of the Godhead.* She indeed tore down the wall of enmity between God and man,* and brought peace in its place.* She opened up the kingdom of heaven.* Let us therefore cling fast to her for she is the anchor of faith,* and let us receive as our stronghold the Lord Who was born of her.* Be of good cheer, then, and have confidence, O people of God,* for He will fight our enemies for us,* He is all-powerful! Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 1 O all-praised martyrs, you were not buried in the earth,* yet heaven has received you;* the gates of Paradise were opened to you,* and entering within you have partaken of the tree of life.* Pray to Christ that He grant peace* and great mercy to our souls. Blessed are they whom You have chosen* and taken to Yourself, О Lord. What pleasure in this life remains unmarked by sorrow?* What glory can endure upon this earth unchanged?* All is feebler than a shadow,* more deceptive than a dream;* for death in a single moment takes away all things.* But in the light of Your countenance, O Christ,* and in the joy of Your beauty,* grant rest to those whom You have chosen,* for You are the Lover of mankind. Their souls shall dwell* amid good things. No man is free from sin,* none save You, who alone art immortal.* Therefore, O compassionate God,* grant to Your servants a dwelling-place in the Light,* with the choirs of Your angels.* In Your loving-kindness overlook their transgressions,* and grant them forgiveness. Glory… Now… Truly wondrous beyond understanding* are the mighty works of your birthgiving, O Bride of God,* of which all the prophets proclaimed,* and your conception and birth giving are most glorious, O all-hymned one,* whereby your Offspring has incomprehensibly and ineffably saved the world,* in that He is merciful. Troparia Tone 4 God of our fathers, You always treat us fairly.* Deprive us not of Your mercy,* but by their prayers direct our lives in peace. 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,* and saved our souls from death. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: God of our fathers, You always treat us fairly.* Deprive us not of Your mercy,* but by their prayers direct our lives in peace. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 8: As teachers of virtue and the adornment of hierarchs,* the church sings your praises:* By your prayers grant to those who venerate you with love* the achievement of virtues and deliverance from temptations,* for you are invincible. 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 115:15,12) Epistle Ephesians 5:1-8 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Your priests shall clothe themselves with justice, and Your venerable ones shall rejoice. verse: For the Lord has chosen Sion; he has chosen it for His dwelling. (Psalm 131:9,13) Gospel Luke 14:1-11 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 17, 2025 - 🕂 Our Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great.

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 17, 2025 Polyeleos Feast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. GREAT VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading “Blessed is the man...” is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Burning with divine love and radiant with the Spirit,* your soul rose to desire truly infinite love!* You despised flesh and blood, and lived apart from the world,* yet you were united to it by great silence and abstinence.* Therefore you were fulfilled as you desired,* and as a star radiant with blessings, Anthony, you illumine our souls! Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Burning with divine love and radiant with the Spirit,* your soul rose to desire truly infinite love!* You despised flesh and blood, and lived apart from the world,* yet you were united to it by great silence and abstinence.* Therefore you were fulfilled as you desired,* and as a star radiant with blessings, Anthony, you illumine our souls! If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Burning with divine love and radiant with the Spirit,* your soul rose to desire truly infinite love!* You despised flesh and blood, and lived apart from the world,* yet you were united to it by great silence and abstinence.* Therefore you were fulfilled as you desired,* and as a star radiant with blessings, Anthony, you illumine our souls! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Anthony, you were radiant with divine light* by the grace of the Holy Spirit;* you shattered the flying weapons of the demons;* by your godly teachings you exposed their evil snares.* You were a radiant light for monks: the first to adorn the desert;* a prayerful and skilled physician of the sick,* and the first clear example of the ascetic life. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Anthony, you were radiant with divine light* by the grace of the Holy Spirit;* you shattered the flying weapons of the demons;* by your godly teachings you exposed their evil snares.* You were a radiant light for monks: the first to adorn the desert;* a prayerful and skilled physician of the sick,* and the first clear example of the ascetic life. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Anthony, you were radiant with divine light* by the grace of the Holy Spirit;* you shattered the flying weapons of the demons;* by your godly teachings you exposed their evil snares.* You were a radiant light for monks: the first to adorn the desert;* a prayerful and skilled physician of the sick,* and the first clear example of the ascetic life. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Anthony, pure in heart and soul;* an earthly angel, a heavenly man!* A teacher of chastity, a clear measure of abstinence!* Now you live with your Master, blessed saint.* As you offer Him unceasing praise* with the angels, all holy monastics and martyrs,* set free from sin and danger* those who ever keep your holy memory. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Anthony, pure in heart and soul;* an earthly angel, a heavenly man!* A teacher of chastity, a clear measure of abstinence!* Now you live with your Master, blessed saint.* As you offer Him unceasing praise with the angels, all holy monastics and martyrs,* set free from sin and danger hose who ever keep your holy memory. Tone 6, Glory... You set your mind as master over the disturbing passions,* keeping the image unharmed through the ascetic life.* Thus you rose into the perfect likeness,* for bravely curbing nature,* you hastened to subject what is lower to that which is above:* you 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 hasten to you,* a perfect example of virtue.* Now the image has been broken, Anthony,* 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. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Readings (1) Wisdom 3:1-9; (2) Wisdom 5:15-6:3; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15 Aposticha Tone 5 Rejoice, Anthony, as you dwell on high with the angelic choirs!* For you truly learned their virtue, blessed saint.* You lived on earth, and appeared as a clear, undefiled image;* as a glass which received the brilliant lights of the Holy Spirit.* Thus enlightened, you saw what was to come,* foretelling all things taught by the divine manifestations of the light of Christ.* entreat Him to grant our souls great mercy. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints! Rejoice, leader of ascetics and their unconquered champion!* For cutting down passions to the root and opposing the attempts of devils,* you bravely laid bare their weakness and soul-destroying error.* You made plain the invincible power and might of the Saviour's cross.* Girded with it, you defeated all who reject* the divine appearance of Christ in the flesh.* Entreat Him to grant our souls great mercy. Blessed is the man who fears the lord. He has great delight in His commandments. You were an overshadowing cloud,* strengthened as a shining pillar of virtues,* leading those in the desert from earth to heaven.* Thus you were a seer of God!* With the staff of the cross you destroyed the sea of the passions,* and having defeated the reasoning of Amalek,* you easily found the way into heaven, blessed one of God,* and an incorruptible inheritance.* Rejoicing, you stand with the angels beside the throne of Christ.* Entreat Him to grant our souls great mercy. Tone 8, Glory... We honour you, Anthony our father,* the instructor of a multitude of monks!* We have indeed learned to walk rightly in your footsteps!* You are blest, for having laboured for Christ,* you denounced the power of the enemy!* Conversor with the angels, companion of Paul of Thebes!* Together with them, entreat the Lord that He may grant mercy to our souls! Now... O Virgin, You have never known wedlock,* Yet You conceived God in the flesh* in a manner which words can never describe.* You thus became the Mother of God on high.* O Immaculate Lady, receive the supplication of your servants* and grant us the cleansing of our sins.* Accept now our prayers and beseech God to save all of us. Troparia Tone 4 By your life you imitated the zealous Elias* and by following straight paths you emulated the Baptist, John.* O Father Anthony,* you peopled the desert and strengthened the world by your prayers;* intercede with Christ God to save our souls. Glory… 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! DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: By your life you imitated the zealous Elias* and by following straight paths you emulated the Baptist, John.* O Father Anthony,* you peopled the desert and strengthened the world by your prayers;* intercede with Christ God to save our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: You rejected earthly worries* and finished your life in silence imitating the Baptist in every way* and so with him we honour you,* O Anthony, most venerable, first of the Fathers. 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 115:15,12) Epistle Hebrews 13:17-21 Alleluia, Tone 6 verse: Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; he shall delight exceedingly in His commandments. verse: His posterity shall be mighty upon the earth. (Psalm 111:1,2) Gospel Luke 6:17-23 Hymn to the Mother of God Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 16, 2025 - 🕃 The Veneration of the Precious Chains of the Holy and All-praiseworthy Apostle Peter.

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 16, 2025 Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted tonight. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. О glorious apostles, divinely chosen disciples of Christ, teachers of the whole world,* who found the Lord God, who is the Mediator between God and mankind:* to Him did you cleave in godliness,* and throughout the world you manifestly preached Him as God* and as a supremely perfect man. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O most wise apostles, divinely chosen disciples of Christ, teachers of the whole world:* By your prayers strengthen me, that I may obey the teachings of God;* and ever help me to walk the narrow path,* that I may achieve a most spacious rest in paradise. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. I hymn as eyewitnesses and preachers of the Word* Peter the first enthroned, Paul, and James,* Andrew and Philip, Simon, Bartholomew and Thomas,* Matthew and John, and Mark and Luke who recorded the Gospels,* who with the seventy others* are the divinely chosen choir. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Bound to the Lord, you were imprisoned in a dungeon.* Thus you bound falsehood, Apostle.* Therefore we honour you with love and kiss your chains with faith.* From them we draw healing of body and salvation of our souls.* We fittingly praise you, god-seer and conversor with the angels. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Those who are bound by ignorance, receive understanding through you.* The peoples of the Gentiles who first were scattered* were shown to you in an image let down from on high* as a sheet containing every living creature.* Therefore, Apostle, every generation glorifies you,* venerating the chains which you bore with diligence for Christ! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The One whom you denied at His condemnation,* you hymned when He rose from the dead.* You preached Him to the ends of the earth, Apostle,* as the God and Man who in His great goodness* entered into fellowship with humankind!* Therefore, we bless you with love, all-glorious Peter,* venerating the chains which you bore with diligence for Christ! Tone 6, Glory... Today Peter, the rock of faith, the foundation of the Church,* appoints his precious chains for the devotion of our souls.* Come and let us kiss them, crowning him with songs of praise and chanting:* rejoice, fervent champion of the faith,* for with ardent knowledge and great boldness you confessed Christ, the Son of God!* Rejoice, joy of the universe, keeper of the keys of the kingdom of heaven,* for you give grace to those who honour you with love* and venerate your precious chains with longing!* As you stand before the throne of Christ, the King of all,* ever pray for us who celebrate your memory! Tone 1, Now… Tempest-tossed on the abyss of transgressions,* fleeing to the calm haven of your most pure supplication,* I cry out to you, O Theotokos:* Save me, O all-immaculate one, extending your mighty right hand* to your servant! Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 1 The harmonious harp of the apostles, played by the Holy Spirit,* abolished the abominable sacrifices of the demons;* and, proclaiming the one Lord,* it has delivered the nations from the delusion of idolatry,* and taught them to worship the consubstantial Trinity. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Together let us praise Peter and Paul,* Luke and Matthew, Mark and John,* Andrew and Thomas,* Bartholomew and Simon the Canaanite, James and Philip;* and let us laud the whole choir of the disciples,* as is meet. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. О all-praised martyrs, the earth did not hide you,* but heaven received you,* and to you were opened the gates of paradise.* And since you have entered therein, you delight in the tree of life.* Pray to Christ, that He grant our souls peace and great mercy. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Rejoice, O Virgin, joy of the forefathers,* gladness of the apostles and martyrs,* and protection of us your servants! Troparia Tone 4 You came to us without leaving Rome by the precious chains which you wore.* First-enthroned of the Apostles* we bow down to them in faith and pray:** by your prayers to God grant us great mercy. Glory… Now… O Virgin Mother of God,* we acknowledge that the Word of the Father, Christ our God,* was incarnate of you, the only pure one and the only blessed one.* Therefore, we sing to you a hymn of praise and we exalt you. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: You came to us without leaving Rome* by the precious chains which you wore.* First-enthroned of the apostles* we bow down to them in faith and pray:* By your prayers to God grant us 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: Christ the rock, who greatly glorified the first among apostles,* calling him Peter, the rock of faith,* calls us now to honor the miracles wrought through Peter’s chains,* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hands. (Psalm 18:5,2) Epistle Hebrews 10:35-11:7 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 Mark 9:10-16 Communion Hymn Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5):

Jan 15, 2025 - 🕃 Our Venerable Fathers Paul of Thebes and John the Hut-Dweller.

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 15, 2025 Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. When by divine inspiration you wisely left the cares of life* and set out on the labours of asceticism,* you went out with joy into the inaccessible wilderness,* inflamed with love of the Lord.* Having overcome the passions,* you lived like an angel by your perseverance in the good, O holy father. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Having renounced all human companionship from your youth, O holy father,* you were the first to seek the absolute solitude of the wilderness.* You surpassed all hermits, O holy Paul,* remaining unknown throughout your whole life.* But at the command of God, Anthony found you like a hidden treasure* and made you known throughout the world. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O holy Paul, as you lived your earthly life,* you dwelt with the wild beasts* and were served by a bird at the command of God.* Seeing this when he found you,* Anthony the Great was filled with amazement,* and he ceaselessly magnified the divine Providence of the Master of all. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O blessed Father, when by divine inspiration* you joyfully fled from the pleasures of this world,* you renounced the broad way and chose the narrow, straight, and rugged road.* You went into a spiritual refuge where you put on the divine habit,* denying yourself and stripping yourself of all passions. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You conceived the amazing plan of your life,* your wondrous behaviour, in your love for Christ,* whose ineffable poverty you cherished.* Without a home, living before the threshold of your parents* you endured need and tribulations.* But you were filled with divine graces and you inherited heaven* and the treasure which no one can ever take away. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Having the Holy Gospel before you, O father John,* you fulfilled It when you renounced your family inheritance* and spent your whole life in hardship and repentance.* Thus you now rejoice, O venerable father, since God has glorified you* with divine consolation and endless happiness. Tone 2, Glory… Renouncing the world and all it contains, O venerable father,* you took up the Gospel of Christ and lived it completely.* In the hut where you dwelt as though in a mystic paradise,* treating your body with the utmost severity,* you put to death the murderous dragon.* Now you dwell in heaven, O holy John:* ask great mercy for us. Tone 1, Now… Of old, when you beheld your Son and Master* stretching forth His hands upon the Cross,* His side pierced by the spear,* О pure Mother, you cried out, lamenting:* “Woe is me! How is it that You suffer, ridding men of their suffering,* О Lover of mankind?” Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 1 The Cross was set up on Golgotha,* and has blossomed forth immortality for us from the ever-flowing fountain* of the Saviour’s side. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. The precious Cross of the Saviour is for us an indestructible rampart;* for, placing our trust therein,* we all are saved. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. О how good was your barter, О saints!* For you traded your blood and inherited heavenly things;* and having undergone trials for a time, you rejoice everlastingly.* Of a truth your commerce was good!* For, having forsaken corruptible things, you received those things which were incorrupt;* and joining chorus with the angels, you unceasingly hymn* the consubstantial Trinity. Glory… Now… Upon beholding the Lamb lifted up upon the Cross,* the immaculate Virgin cried aloud, weeping:* “O my Child most sweet, what is this new and most glorious sight?* How is it that You who hold all things in Your hand* have been nailed to the Tree in the flesh?” Troparia Tone 4 God of our fathers, You always treat us fairly.* Deprive us not of Your mercy,* but by their prayers direct our lives in peace. Glory… Since your early youth, you have longed with fervour for the things of the Lord:* leaving the world and its pleasures, you became an example of the monastic life.* John most blessed, you built your hut at the door of your parents' house* and overcame the devil’s guiles.* Wherefore Christ Himself has glorified you as you deserve. Now… O Virgin, all immaculate Mother of Christ God,* a sword pierced your all-holy soul* when you saw your Son and God willingly crucified.* Therefore, O blessed One,* never cease to pray to Him* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O fathers,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh, which passes,* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* and so, O Venerable Paul and John,* your spirits rejoices with the angels. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Divinely armed with purity of spirit* and mightily wielding the lance of unceasing prayers,* you overcame the powers of demons,* Venerable Paul and John, pray without ceasing for all of us. 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 115:15,12) Epistle Hebrews 10:1-18 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 Mark 8:30-34 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 14, 2025 - Our Venerable Fathers Massacred in Sinai and Rhaithu; Repose of the Holy Equal-to-the Apostles Nina, Enlightener of Georgia.

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 14, 2025 Leave-taking of Theophany. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. When the Forerunner saw our Enlightener,* who enlightens all mankind,* draw near to be baptized,* 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. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. When the Forerunner saw our Enlightener,* who enlightens all mankind,* draw near to be baptized,* 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. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust 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:* “The One on 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. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. 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:* “The One on 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. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. The streams of the Jordan received You, the Fountain,* and the Advocate descended in the form of a dove.* He who bowed the heavens, bowed His head,* and the clay cried out to the One who formed him:* “Why do You order me to do what is beyond my power?* For I need to be baptized by You.”* O sinless Christ our God, glory to You. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Wishing to save the human race that had gone astray,* You did not disdain 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 sake.* For You, O Deliverer, were baptized in the flesh, making us worthy of forgiveness.* Therefore we cry out to You:* O Christ our God and Benefactor, glory to You. Glory… Now… You bowed Your head before the Forerunner* and crushed the heads of the dragons.* You descended into the waters* and gave light to all things,* that they may glorify You, O Savior,* our souls’ Enlightenment. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 2 Seeing You, Christ our God,* draw near to him in the river Jordan, * John said: Why have You, the undefiled One,* come to Your servant, Lord? * In whose name shall I baptize You?* Of the Father? But You bear Him in Yourself. * Of the Son? But You are Yourself this Son made flesh.* Of the Holy Spirit? But You know that through Your own mouth You give Him to the faithful.* O God, You have appeared! Have mercy on us. The sea looked and fled; Jordan was driven back! The waters saw You, O God,* The waters saw You and were afraid!* For the cherubim cannot lift their eyes upon Your glory, * nor can the seraphim gaze on You:* But standing by You in fear,* the one carries You, and the other gives Glory to Your might.* With them, merciful Lord, we proclaim Your praises and say:* O God, You have appeared! Have mercy on us! What ails you, sea, that you flee? Jordan, that you turn back? Today the maker of heaven and earth * comes in the flesh to the Jordan. * He who is sinless asks for baptism, * that He may cleanse the world from the error of the enemy.* He who is the Master of all is baptized by a servant, * and He gives mankind cleansing through water. * Let us cry aloud to Him:* O God You have appeared to us! Glory to You. Tone 6, Glory… Now… When John, the bright light that was born of a barren mother,* perceived that Christ, the Sun who had risen from a virgin,* was now asking for baptism in the Jordan* he cried out with joy:* O Lord, sanctify me by your Theophany. 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. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Antiphon 1 When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course? Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Glory… Now… Only-Begotten Son… Antiphon 3 Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Entrance Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light. Prokeimenon, Tone 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 Hebrews 9:8-10,15-23 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 Mark 8:22-26 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 “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):

Jan 13, 2025 - The Holy Martyrs Hermylus and Stratonicus.

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 13, 2025 Post-feast of Theophany. VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted tonight. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. He who covers Himself with light as with a garment* has granted for our sakes to become as we are.* Today He is covered by the streams of the Jordan,* though He has no need to be cleansed by them:* But through the cleansing that He Himself receives –* Wonder! He bestows regeneration on us!* He refashions without shattering,* and without fire, He casts anew,* and He saves those who are enlightened in Him,* Christ our God, 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. John the Baptist saw You draw near,* Who cleanse the sin of the world by Spirit and by fire.* He cried aloud in fear and trembling, and said:* I dare not touch Your immaculate head.* Sanctify me, Master, by Your epiphany,* only Lover of mankind! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Come, like the wise virgins,* let us go and meet the Master Who has appeared:* For as a Bridegroom He has come forth to John.* The Jordan, seeing You, was driven back in fear;* John cried out: I dare not touch Your immortal head.* The Spirit came down in the form of a dove, hallowing the waters,* and a voice called from on high:* This is my Son Who has come into the world to save mankind.* O Lord, Glory to You. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. The glorious Hermylus and the God-wise Stratonicus* were a wondrous pair who professed the uncreated Trinity.* After many wounds and sufferings* they conquered the error of worshipping many gods.* They have been crowned with the crown of victory,* and they pray for peace and great mercy for the whole world. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O Martyr, you were a servant of the Word.* O Hermylus, you were chosen as a deacon by the Divine Spirit.* The sacred and splendid robes of your diaconate* were coloured by the flowing of your blood;* having perfected your ministry,* you now pass over into the spiritual kingdom,* and you pray fervently for those who venerate you. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Having suffered stoning at the command of the torturer,* you were thrown into a basket and were drowned.* Through your blessed death you drown the most evil enemy.* Now you are living joyously in heaven,* and you pray for everyone, O courageous martyrs. Tone 8, Glory… O venerable and holy fathers,* having meditated day and night on the law of the Lord,* you were made worthy to be partakers in the delights of the living Tree.* You blossomed with fruit, the crowns of your martyrdom.* You had confidence in God, the witness of your struggles.* Now obtain for us both forgiveness and great mercy. Now… Today the creation is enlightened!* Today all nature is glad:* Things of heaven, and things on earth.* Angels and men come together,* for where the King is present, there also his army goes.* Let us run, then, to the Jordan;* let us all see how John baptizes a sinless and uncreated Head!* And therefore let us together cry aloud,* echoing the voice of the apostle:* The grace of God bringing salvation to all men has appeared,* shining upon the faithful and granting them great mercy! Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha See the reflection of the Father’s glory* come to Jordan’s bank* to purge by baptismal washing the filth of our souls. The sea looked and fled; Jordan was driven back! John the prophet, receive the world’s Redeemer!* As His chosen servant, baptize the Creator* for the regeneration of mankind! What ails you, sea, that you flee? Jordan, that you turn back? Enlightenment approaches!* Redemption shines in Jordan!* Come, let us assemble to be cleansed of sin,* singing the hymns of the feast! Tone 8, Glory… O venerable fathers, through the pains of your fastings* You lived a life of the angels.* Having become master of your body by self-discipline,* you subjected it to the Spirit.* You kept the law of the Lord* and preserved the original beauty of the likeness.* After spending your life in great fasting,* you entered the struggles of the martyrs,* and were adorned with eth two-fold crown.* Implore the Saviour to save our souls. Now… Today the armies of angels are amazed,* seeing You stand naked in Jordan’s waters, Saviour,* bowing Your pure head to be baptized by John!* By Your voluntary poverty* You have filled the universe with riches!* O Lord, glory to You! Troparia Tone 4 O Lord our God, you holy martyrs,* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Tone 1, Glory… Now… At Your Baptism in the Jordan river, O Christ,* the worship due to the Holy Trinity was made manifest,* for the voice of the Father bore You witness by calling You “Beloved Son”* and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove,* confirmed the immutability of this declaration.* O Christ God, who came forth and filled the world with light: * Glory to You! DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Antiphon 1 When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course? Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Glory… Now… Only-Begotten Son… Antiphon 3 Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Entrance Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light. Prokeimenon, Tone 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 Hebrews 8:7-13 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 Mark 8:11-21 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 “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):

Jan 12, 2025 - Sunday after Theophany; Octoechos Tone 1; The Holy Martyr Tatiana.

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 12, 2025 GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name. Accept our evening prayer, O holy Lord,* and grant us forgiveness of sins,* for You alone manifested the resurrection* to the world. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me. O you people, walk around Sion and encompass her.* And there give glory to Him who is risen from the dead.* For He is our God* who delivers us from our sins. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Come you people, praise and worship Christ.* Glorify His resurrection from the dead;* for He is our God who delivered the world* from the deceit of the enemy. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Rejoice, O you heavens;* sound the trumpets, you foundations of the earth;* cry out with joy, O you mountains.* For behold, Emmanuel has nailed our sins to the Cross;* the Giver of Life has put Death to death;* and the Lover of mankind* has raised up Adam. Tone 8 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O Lord and sinless One,* although You allowed Yourself to be baptized in the flesh* to free the world from sin,* nevertheless we glorify You, knowing that You are God;* for You were baptized and delivered our souls from slavery. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O Lord, when You became incarnate* and came into the currents of the Jordan* in order to sanctify the water by Your glorious baptism,* You condescended to bow your head to John,* and You were baptized by a servant* in order that You might save our souls. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Lord, You desired to save from error* the whole world which You created,* and You deigned to become incarnate from an inviolate virgin.* As the Lover of Mankind, You saved Adam from corruption.* You were baptized and bestowed enlightenment on our souls. Tone 2 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. When you begin to glow richly with the light of the Spirit,* you left riches behind and loved only that which was heavenly.* You clothed yourself with the strength of a martyr,* and you endured pain beyond measure.* Thus you took away the power of the torturer,* and you wove a crown of victory,* O Martyr and most glorious sufferer of the passion. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. When you extinguished the evils of the flesh* and the flames of sin, O precious one,* by means of the dew of the Divine Spirit acting in you,* you closed the mouths of the ferocious beasts in the arena.* You courageously handed your body over to suffering,* thus weaving for yourself a crown of victory.* O Tatiana, you are blessed by God. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Neither sword nor fire, nor tribulations, nor hunger,* nor any form of torture dulled your yearning for the Lord,* because you sought Him with your heart;* and you completely turned away from evil things, O Martyr.* You took up your abode inside the bridal chamber of God* and became the betrothed of the King of all. Tone 5, Glory… Now… Seeing You, the Creator, naked in the waters* and asking for baptism,* every creature on earth was seized with fear and wonder.* All were spellbound by the trembling of the Forerunner;* he did not dare to approach You.* Seeing You, the sea fled, and the streams of the Jordan turned back;* the mountains leaped, and the angelic powers were astonished and said:* O wonder! The Saviour is naked* and desires to clothe humanity with renewal and salvation. Tone 1, Glory… Now... Let us sing a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary,* glory of the whole world!* She was herself formed by human seed,* yet she became the Mother of the Master, the Gate of heaven,* the theme of the angels’ hymn and beauty of the faithful.* She was seen as being heavenly* and the Tabernacle of the Godhead.* She indeed tore down the wall of enmity between God and man,* and brought peace in its place.* She opened up the kingdom of heaven.* Let us therefore cling fast to her for she is the anchor of faith,* and let us receive as our stronghold the Lord Who was born of her.* Be of good cheer, then, and have confidence, O people of God,* for He will fight our enemies for us,* He is all-powerful! 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 1 O Christ, by Your passion we have been freed from suffering;* and by Your resurrection we have been delivered from corruption.* O Lord, glory to You! The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength. Let all creation rejoice, let the heavens be glad,* let the nations clap their hands with joy.* For Christ our Saviour, in His love for mankind,* has nailed our sins to the Cross;* He has put Death to death,* and by raising our fallen forefather, Adam,* He has given life to all mankind. For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved. O God, You are above all understanding;* You are King and Lord of heaven and earth.* Yet of Your own free will,* You allowed Yourself to be crucified because of Your love for mankind.* When You descended below,* Hades was filled with bitterness as You confronted it;* but the souls of the just received You with great joy.* Adam arose when he saw You, his Creator, down in the depths.* What a wonder this is!* You are the life of all and have tasted death* in order to dispel the darkness of the world with Your light.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory to You! Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days. The myrrh-bearing women were filled with grief* as they hastened with spices to Your tomb;* but they did not find Your most pure body.* Instead, they found an angel* who proclaimed Your unique and glorious resurrection,* and commanded them to announce to Your apostles:* The Lord is risen,* granting great mercy to the world. Tone 6, Glory… Now… O faithful, let us praise the great plans of God who works in our behalf,* for the only pure and spotless One* became Incarnate on account of our fall* and purifies us in the Jordan River.* He sanctifies us together with the waters* and crushes the heads of serpents in this water.* O believers, let us therefore draw water with joy,* for those who draw it in faith* shall be invisibly endowed with the grace of the Spirit* through the presence of Christ our God, the Saviour of our souls. Troparia Tone 1 Though the stone was sealed by the Judeans* and soldiers guarded Your most pure body,* You arose, O Saviour, on the third day* and gave life to the world.* And so the heavenly powers cried out to You, O Giver of Life:* Glory to Your Resurrection, O Christ!* Glory to Your Kingdom!* Glory to Your saving plan!* O only Lover of mankind. Tone 4, Glory… Your lamb, Tatiana, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy save our souls. Tone 1, Now… At Your Baptism in the Jordan river, O Christ,* the worship due to the Holy Trinity was made manifest,* for the voice of the Father bore You witness by calling You “Beloved Son”* and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove,* confirmed the immutability of this declaration.* O Christ God, who came forth and filled the world with light: * Glory to You! SUNDAY MATINS Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 1 Troparia, Tone 1 Though the stone was sealed by the Judeans* and soldiers guarded Your most pure body,* You arose, O Saviour, on the third day* and gave life to the world.* And so the heavenly powers cried out to You, O Giver of Life:* Glory to Your Resurrection, O Christ!* Glory to Your Kingdom!* Glory to Your saving plan!* O only Lover of mankind. (2) Tone 4, Glory… Your lamb, Tatiana, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy save our souls. Tone 1, Now… At Your Baptism in the Jordan river, O Christ,* the worship due to the Holy Trinity was made manifest,* for the voice of the Father bore You witness by calling You “Beloved Son”* and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove,* confirmed the immutability of this declaration.* O Christ God, who came forth and filled the world with light: * Glory to You! Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 1 While watching Your grave, the soldiers became as dead men* from the lightning flash of the Angel* who appeared and proclaimed to the women the Resurrection.* We glorify You, the destroyer of corruption;* we fall down before You, who has risen from the grave* and who alone are our God. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. You were willingly nailed to the Cross, O Compassionate one,* and laid in a tomb as a mortal, O Giver of life.* By Your death, O Powerful one,* You have smashed its might;* for gatekeepers of Hades trembled before You;* You have raised with You the dead from every age,* for You alone love mankind. Glory… Now… All we who with love flee for refuge to your goodness* know you to be the Mother of God* and after childbirth still truly Virgin;* for we sinners have you as our protection;* we have you as our salvation in misfortunes,* as the only All-immaculate one. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 1 The women came to Your tomb at dawn* and seeing a vision of an Angel they trembled;* the tomb became resplendent with life;* and amazed by the miracle, they returned to the disciples and proclaimed the Resurrection:* for Christ has despoiled Hades,* as alone almighty and all powerful,* raising up those in corruption,* dispelling the fear of condemnation* by the power of the Cross. I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. O Life of all, You were nailed to the Cross;* O immortal Lord, You were numbered among the dead,* arising on the third day, O Saviour,* raising Adam from corruption;* wherefore the heavenly Powers cried out to You:* O Giver of life, Glory to Your sufferings, O Christ;* glory to Your Resurrection;* glory to Your condescension,* O only Lover of mankind’. Glory… Now… O Mary, holy tabernacle of the Master,* raise us up who have fallen into the pit of wicked despair, of transgressions and afflictions;* for you are the salvation,* the help and the mighty protection of sinners,* and you save your servants. Polyeleos Evlogitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 1 The Thief’s repentance plundered Paradise,* but the Myrrh-bearers’ lamentations announced the joy that You have risen, O Christ God,* granting the world great mercy. Hymn of Ascent, Tone 1 Antiphon 1 When I am afflicted,* I cry to You, O Lord,* hearken to my pains. For those who dwell in the desert* the longing for God never ceases,* for they are far from the vanity of this world. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit, as to the Father and the Son,* are due honour and glory;* thus let us sing to the Trinity,* a single power. Antiphon 2 Having lifted me up to the summit of Your laws,* make me shine with virtues, O God,* that I may sing Your praises. Take me with Your right hand, O Word,* guard me and keep me,* lest the fire of sin scorch me. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit all creation is made new* and hastens back to its original condition;* for He is equal in strength* to the Father and the Word. Antiphon 3 With those who said to me:* Let us journey to the courts of the Lord,* my Spirit was gladdened and my heart rejoices. In the house of David is great fear;* for when the thrones are set therein,* all the tribes and nations of the earth will be judged. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit must be offered honor, adoration, glory, and power,* as befits also the Father and the Son;* for the Trinity is a Unity,* one in essence, but not in Hypostases. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 I myself will arise, says the Lord.* I will grant them the salvation for which they thirst. verse: The words of the Lord are words without alloy. Let everything that lives, Tone 1 Gospel Matthew 28:16-20 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 1 Ode 1 Irmos: Your warrior hand is glorious in strength, O deathless one!* All-powerful, in manner fit for God,* it broke the enemy in pieces,* and devised for Israel a strange, new way through the deep. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He, who with pure hands divinely working in the beginning formed me from the earth, spread out those hands upon the cross, and from the earth recalled my corruptible body which he had received from the Virgin. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He, who divinely breathing into me implanted within me a soul, suffered dissolution for me, and delivered his soul to death; loosing the age-old bonds and raising me with himself, he made me glorious in incorruption. Most holy Theotokos, save us Hail, fount of grace! Hail, ladder and gate of heaven! Hail, bearer of the light, vessel of gold, mountain unhewn and bearer of Christ, the giver of life to the world! Irmos: The Lord mighty in battle uncovered the foundation of the deep* and led His servants on dry ground;* but He covered their adversaries with the waters,* for He has been glorified. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The Lord, the King of the ages, restores corrupted Adam with the streams of the Jordan and crushes the heads of the serpents who make their nest therein, for He has been glorified. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The Lord who became incarnate of the Virgin, clothing material flesh in the immaterial fire of the Godhead, wraps Himself in the water of the Jordan, for He has been glorified. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! He who washes away the defilement of men, cleanses Himself for them in the Jordan, desiring to make Himself like to them, yet remaining as He was before, the Lord who enlightens those in darkness, for He has been glorified. Glory… Now… O Maiden who gave birth to the Well-spring of dispassion, heal me who have been wounded by the passions, and rescue me from everlasting fire, O you who alone are full of the grace of God. Katavasia: The Lord mighty in battle uncovered the foundation of the deep* and led His servants on dry ground;* but He covered their adversaries with the waters,* for He has been glorified. Ode 3 Irmos: You alone, knowing the frailty of mortal man, tenderly took its form;* gird me with power from on high, crying to you:* Holy is the living temple of your pure glory,* O Lover of man! Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Good One, you are my God, in pity for the fallen you determined to come down to me; you have raised me up by your crucifixion, crying to you: Holy is the Lord of glory, in goodness beyond compare! Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Christ divinely existing life as God compassionate you clothed yourself with me, corrupted one; coming down to the dust of death, O Lord, you broke the chains of man’s mortality and on the third day, rising, clothed the dead with incorruption. Most holy Theotokos, save us When by the all-holy Spirit, O Virgin, you conceived God in your womb, you remained unconsumed by the fire; for to Moses the lawgiver, the bush burning yet unconsumed clearly foretold you who received the fire unendurable. Irmos: The Lord who grants strength to our kings,* and exalts the horn of His anointed,* is born of a Virgin and comes to baptism.* Therefore let us, the faithful, cry aloud:* None is holy as our God* and none is righteous save You, O Lord. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! O Church of Christ, who of old was barren and grievously childless, be glad today; for by water and the Spirit children have been born to you, who cry out with faith: There is none as holy as our God! Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! In the wilderness the forerunner cries out with a loud voice: “Prepare the ways of Christ and make straight the paths of our God, crying out·with faith: There is none as holy as our God!” Glory… Now… Your conceiving and birthgiving are beyond description, for at the word of Him who created time you gave birth to Him who has delivered the ends of the earth from irrationality, O Maiden who knew not man. Ever beseech Him that He save us. Katavasia: The Lord who grants strength to our kings,* and exalts the horn of His anointed,* is born of a Virgin and comes to baptism.* Therefore let us, the faithful, cry aloud:* None is holy as our God* and none is righteous save You, O Lord. 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. Ikos Upon Galilee of the Gentiles, upon the land of Zabulon and the land of Nephthalim, as the prophet said, a great light has shone, even Christ. To those that sat in darkness a bright dawn has appeared as lightning from Bethlehem. The Lord born from Mary, the Sun of Righteousness, sheds His rays upon the whole inhabited earth. Come then, naked children of Adam, and let us clothe ourselves in Him, that we may warm ourselves. You who are a protection and veil to the naked, a light to those in darkness, You have come, You are made manifest, the Light that no one can approach. Ode 4 Irmos: Habbakuk with the foreseeing eyes apprehended you,* the mountain by divine grace overshadowed,* and proclaimed the Holy One of Israel to come forth from you* for our salvation and remaking. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Who is this Saviour that comes from Edom, crowned with thorns, with garments reddened, hanging on a tree? He is the Holy One of Israel for our salvation and remaking. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. See, disobedient people, and be ashamed! He, whom you, as an evildoer, madly begged Pilate to hang upon the cross, he, as belongs to God, has dissolved the power of death and risen from the tomb. Most holy Theotokos, save us O Virgin, we know you as a tree of life, for there sprang from you not the death-bearing fruit of food for mortal men but fruition of life eternal for the salvation of us who sing to you. Irmos: He whom You have called, O Lord, ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness,’* heard Your voice when You had thundered upon many waters, bearing witness to Your Son.* Wholly filled with the Spirit that had come, he cried aloud:* ‘You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.’ Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! “Who has ever seen the sun cleansed, which is most bright by nature?” the herald cries out. “Am I then to wash with water You, the Effulgence of glory, the Image of the ever-existent Father? Am I, who am grass, to touch Your divinity? For You are Christ, the Wisdom and Power of God!” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! “When he happened upon You, Moses showed the divine reverence he felt, for he understood that it was You who spoke out of the bush; and he straightway averted his face. How, then, can I gaze directly at You? How can I touch You with my hand? For You are Christ, the Wisdom and Power of God!” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! “Wisely doing what is spiritual, and being honoured with speech, yet am I in awe before inanimate things. For if I baptize You, the mountain which smoked with fire, the sea which parted in two and this Jordan which turned back will be my accusers. For You are Christ, the Wisdom and Power of God!” Glory… Now… Guide me to the calm haven, O most holy Bride of God; for the tempest and tumult of sin cruelly assail me, and I am shaken by the winds of the wicked demons who oppress me. Katavasia: He whom You have called, O Lord, ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness,’* heard Your voice when You had thundered upon many waters, bearing witness to Your Son.* Wholly filled with the Spirit that had come, he cried aloud:* ‘You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.’ Ode 5 Irmos: O Christ, you have illumined the ends of the earth* by the brightness of your coming and made them radiant with joy by your cross;* enlighten with the light of the knowledge of you* the hearts of those who with right belief sing your praise. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The Jews put to death on the tree of the cross the great shepherd of the sheep and the Lord; but he rescued the dead from the power of death, terrified sheep in Hell. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. When you announced the glad tidings of peace by your cross and proclaimed deliverance to the captives, my Saviour, then, O Christ, you put to shame him who held them in thrall and by your divine rising showed him naked and destitute. Most holy Theotokos, save us All-praised, do not despise the prayers of those who faithfully entreat you but receive and present them, O pure one, to your Son, our God and only benefactor; for in you we have gained a protector. Irmos: Jesus, the Prince of Life,* has come to set loose from condemnation Adam the first-formed man;* and though as God He needs no cleansing,* yet for the sake of fallen man He is cleansed in the Jordan.* In its streams He slew the enmity* and bestows the peace that passes all understanding. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! When countless people went down to be baptized of John, You Yourself stood in their midst. And he announced to those present: “Who has told you, O rebellious ones, to avoid the impending wrath? Bring forth fruits worthy of Christ; for He stands before you, granting peace.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Standing in their midst, the Creator and Fashioner alone tries the hearts of all; and taking his winnowing-fan in His hand, He most wisely separates the harvest of the whole world, letting the chaff fall away; and He grants eternal life to the fruitful. Glory… Now… O splendid cloud of the Sun, who illumines me with radiance which dispels the gloom of my transgressions: extend your hand to me who have fallen into the mire of sin, and raise me up who lie therein, O you who alone are the restoration of fallen Adam Katavasia: Jesus, the Prince of Life,* has come to set loose from condemnation Adam the first-formed man;* and though as God He needs no cleansing,* yet for the sake of fallen man He is cleansed in the Jordan.* In its streams He slew the enmity* and bestows the peace that passes all understanding. Ode 6 Irmos: The deepest abyss has surrounded us, there is none to deliver,* we are counted as sheep for the slaughter;* save your people, our God,* for you are the strength and restoring of the weak. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. By the fault of the first-fashioned man, O Lord, we were grievously wounded; by your stripes, O Christ, by which for our sakes you were wounded, we are healed; for you are the strength and restoring of the weak. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You have brought us up from Hell, O Lord, you have crushed the all-devouring whale by your might and laid low his strength, O All-powerful; for you are life and light and resurrection. Most holy Theotokos, save us O pure Virgin, our forefathers rejoice in you, and regain through you that Eden which they destroyed by transgressions; for you are chaste before your bearing and after the birth. Irmos: The Voice of the Word, the Candlestick of the Light, the Morning Star and Forerunner of the Sun,* cried in the wilderness to all the peoples:* ‘Repent and be cleansed while there is yet time.* For lo, Christ is at hand,* Who delivers the world from corruption.’ Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Christ, who was begotten incorruptibly of God the Father, is incarnate of the Virgin without defilement. The forerunner teaches that it is not possible to loose the sandals, the bond between the Word and us, of Him who delivers mortals from deception. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Christ shall baptize His enemies, who do not acknowledge Him as God, with the uttermost fire; but He shall restore with the water of grace those who accept His divinity, delivering them from their transgressions. Glory… Now… The Creator chose you, the beauty of Jacob, whom He loved, from among all generations, O most immaculate one, and He appeared, shining forth from you. Katavasia: The Voice of the Word, the Candlestick of the Light, the Morning Star and Forerunner of the Sun,* cried in the wilderness to all the peoples:* ‘Repent and be cleansed while there is yet time.* For lo, Christ is at hand,* Who delivers the world from corruption.’ Kontakion, Tone 1 You arose in glory from the tomb* and with Yourself You raised the world.* All humanity acclaims You as God,* and death has vanished.* Adam exults, O Master,* and Eve, redeemed now from bondage, cries out for joy:* “You are the One, O Christ, Who offer resurrection to all.” Ikos The third day arising, gates of Hell shattering, the age-long dead raising, as God of all power to him we sing praises: to the myrrh-bearing women in loving good-pleasure appearing, to those who were foremost, saying: Rejoice, joy to the apostles proclaiming, the only giver of life. To disciples in faith then the women proclaim the tokens of victory, and Hell groans and death laments, the whole world exults, all things rejoice together, for you, O Christ, have bestowed upon all resurrection. Ode 7 Irmos: We, the faithful, discern you, Mother of God, as furnace of intellect:* for as he, the most highly exalted, kept safe the three children* so in your womb he re-fashioned man wholly,* God of our fathers, praised and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The earth shuddered with fear, the sun fled and with it the light darkened, the sacred veil of the temple was torn in two and the rocks were split; for the righteous one was fixed to the cross, God of our fathers, praised and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Of your own will for us you became as one with no help and wounded among the dead, O most highly exalted, and freed us all; and with your strong hand you raised us up with yourself, God of our fathers, praised and glorious above all. Most holy Theotokos, save us Hail, spring of ever-living water! Hail, paradise of delight! Hail, fortress of the faithful! Hail, unwedded one! Hail, joy of all the world from whom has sprung for us the God of our fathers, praised and glorious above all! Irmos: The breath of the wind heavy with dew* and the descent of the angel of God preserved the Holy Children from all harm,* as they walked in the fiery furnace.* Refreshed with dew in the flames,* they sang in thanksgiving:* ‘Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our fathers.’ Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! As in heaven, with trembling and wonder the angelic hosts stood before You in the Jordan, gazing at the extent of God’s condescension; for the God of our fathers, who holds the firmament of the waters above, stood, incarnate as man, in the waters. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The cloud and the sea of old prefigured the wonder of divine baptism, for the ancient people of the law were baptized therein when they fled Egypt. The sea was an image of the water, and the cloud was an image of the Spirit, whereby we are made perfect. And we cry out: Blessed are You, O Lord God, forever! Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! O all you faithful, in Him have we received perfection; and, theologizing continually with the angels let us glorify the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. For, lo! the consubstantial Trinity of Hypostases is the One God. To Him do we chant: Blessed are You, O Lord God, forever! Glory… Now… In giving birth for us to the hypostatic Life who has manifestly destroyed death by death, O pure one, you have mortified the passions of the flesh of us who honour you with faith as the most glorious Theotokos. Katavasia: The breath of the wind heavy with dew* and the descent of the angel of God preserved the Holy Children from all harm,* as they walked in the fiery furnace.* Refreshed with dew in the flames,* they sang in thanksgiving:* ‘Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our fathers.’ Ode 8 Irmos: In the fiery oven as in a smelting furnace* the Israelite children shone bright with the beauty of godliness purer than gold,* and they said: Bless the Lord, all his works,* praise and highly exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Word of God, maker and transformer of all by your will, changing the shadow of death into everlasting life by your Passion, we, all your works, unceasingly praise you as Lord, and highly exalt you throughout all the age ·. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Rising on the third day from the grave, O Christ, you demolished the destruction and misery within the gates and strongholds of Hell. All your works unceasingly praise you as Lord, and highly exalt you throughout all the ages. Most holy Theotokos, save us Let us sing to her who without seed and above nature brought forth Christ the precious pearl from the divine lightning, and let us say: Bless the Lord, all his works, praise and highly exalt him throughout all the ages. Irmos: The Babylonian furnace, as it poured forth dew,* foreshadowed a marvellous mystery:* how the Jordan should receive in its streams the immaterial fire,* and should encompass the Creator,* when He was baptized in the flesh.* Him do you peoples bless and exalt above all for ever. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! “Put aside all fear,” the Deliverer said to the forerunner; “Obey Me, in that I am good, and touch Me, for this have I become by nature. Submit to My commands and baptize Me who comes down.” The people bless and exalt Him supremely for all ages. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! When the Baptist heard the words of the Master, he stretched forth his hand with trembling, and as he touched the head of his Creator he cried out to Him who was being baptized: “Sanctify me, for You are my God, whom the people bless and exalt supremely for all ages!” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The Trinity was revealed in the Jordan, for the Father, the all-divine Essence Himself, announced: “This One who is baptized is my beloved Son!” And the Spirit came upon Him who was like to Him, whom the people bless and exalt supremely for all ages. Glory… Now… Save and take pity upon us, O you who in manner past description gave birth for us to God, the compassionate Saviour, removing the burning heat of fiery thoughts and passions by your supplications, O all-glorious and pure one. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The Babylonian furnace, as it poured forth dew,* foreshadowed a marvellous mystery:* how the Jordan should receive in its streams the immaterial fire,* and should encompass the Creator,* when He was baptized in the flesh.* Him do you peoples bless and exalt above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: The bush ever burning and never consumed* was the type of your pure child-bearing;* quench now for us the raging furnace of temptations, we pray you,* that we may unceasingly magnify you, Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O how the lawless and disobedient people, devising evil, made right the accursed and ungodly man and condemned the righteous, the Lord of glory, to the tree! Worthily, we magnify him! Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Saviour, innocent Lamb, taking away the sins of the world, risen on the third day, we glorify you, together with the Father and your divine Spirit; acknowledging you as God, we magnify you, the Lord of glory. Most holy Theotokos, save us Save your people, Lord, whom you purchased with your precious blood. Grant strength to the king against his enemies, Lover of man, and bestow peace on your churches through the prayers of the Mother of God. Irmos: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is due:* even a spirit from the world above is filled with dizziness,* when it seeks to sing your praises, O Theotokos.* But since you are good, accept our faith:* You know well our love inspired by God,* for you are the Protector of Christians and we magnify you. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! O David, come in spirit to the enlightened and chant, saying: “Approach God now with faith and be illumined! Lowly Adam cried out in his fall, and the Lord heard him, and, coming to the streams of the Jordan, He restored the corrupted one.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Isaiah says: “Change your ways and cleanse yourselves; leave off your wickedness in the face of the Lord! You who thirst, go to the living Water; for Christ sprinkles with water those who have recourse to Him with faith, renewing them, and He baptizes with the Spirit to life which ages not.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! By grace and the seal are we preserved, O faithful; for as of old the blood-smeared lintels permitted the Hebrews to escape the destroyer, so shall the laver of regeneration be for us a divine exodus. And henceforth we shall see the never-waning light of the Trinity. Glory… Now… Moved by the voices of those who fervently entreat you, O Mistress, only refuge of the faithful, save, take pity and preserve from harm and every invasion of the heathen, those who ever magnify you with faith and love. Katavasia: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is due:* even a spirit from the world above is filled with dizziness,* when it seeks to sing your praises, O Theotokos.* But since you are good, accept our faith:* You know well our love inspired by God,* for you are the Protector of Christians and we magnify you. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light O faithful, let us gather with the disciples on the mountain in Galilee* to behold Christ as He says to them:* I have received all power over all things on high and those below.* Let us learn how He taught them to baptize all nations* in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,* and how He promised His disciples* to be present with them to the end of the world. Glory… The Saviour, who is grace and truth,* has appeared in the streams of the Jordan,* and enlightened those that sleep in darkness and shadow.* For the Light that no man can approach* has come and is made manifest. Now… The Saviour, who is grace and truth,* has appeared in the streams of the Jordan,* and enlightened those that sleep in darkness and shadow.* For the Light that no man can approach* has come and is made manifest. Of the Gospel Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 1 We sing the praise of Your saving Passion, O Christ,* and we glorify Your Resurrection. Having endured the Cross,* and destroyed death* and risen from the dead,* grant peace to our lives, O Lord,* as You alone are All-powerful. Having despoiled Hades* and raised mankind by Thy Resurrection, O Christ, * grant that with pure hearts we may praise and glorify Thee. As we glorify Your divine condescension,* we praise You, O Christ:* For You were born of a Virgin,* yet You were not separated from the Father;* as man You suffered and willingly endured the Cross;* arising from the grave, as though coming forth from Your bridal chamber,* that You might save the world.* O Lord, glory be to You! When You were nailed to the Tree of the Cross,* then the might of the enemy was slain;* creation shook in fear of You,* and Hades was despoiled by Your might.* You raised the dead from their tombs* and opened Paradise to the Thief.* O Christ our God, glory be to You! Tone 6 As You are light, the Effulgence of the Light, O my Jesus,* You have illumined us with Your ineffable radiance,* we who of old were blinded in Eden by the serpent;* and beholding by Your light the light in the Jordan, we all chant with faith:* Blessed are You! O our God who has appeared, glory be to You! The sea beheld and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course. O forerunner, initiate and performer of awesome mysteries,* who yourself beheld joy and the Spirit,* entreat the Word who was baptized by you, as was His good pleasure,* that He ever grant us deliverance from offenses.* To Him do we chant: Blessed are You! O our God who has appeared, glory be to You. Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course? Let us lift up our hearts in understanding, O faithful!* And let us run with haste to the streams of the Jordan,* and behold the Creator baptized in the flesh by John the forerunner;* and theologizing with him, let us chant:* Blessed are You! O our God who has appeared, glory be to You. Tone 1, Glory… The Lord appeared to His disciples* who had hastened to the mountain for His ascension from here below,* and they bowed before Him.* They learned of His universal power* and were sent to all the peoples of the earth* to announce His resurrection from the dead* and His return from earth to heaven.* He also promised to be with them always,* and His word is truth;* for He is Christ our God, the Saviour of our souls. 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 When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course? Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Glory… Now… Only-Begotten Son… Antiphon 3 Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Entrance Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Though the stone was sealed by the Judeans,* and soldiers guarded Your most pure body,* You arose, O Saviour, on the third day,* and gave life to the world.* And so the heavenly powers cried out to You, O Giver of Life:* Glory to Your resurrection, O Christ!* Glory to Your kingdom!* Glory to Your saving plan,* O only Lover of mankind. Troparion, Tone 1: When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us* as we have hoped in you. verse: Rejoice in the Lord, O you just; praise befits the righteous. (Psalm 32:2,1) Epistle Ephesians 4:7-13 Alleluia, Tone 5 verse: Your mercies, O Lord, I will sing for ever; from generation to generation I will announce Your truth with my mouth. verse: For You have said: Mercy shall be built up for ever; in the heavens Your truth shall be prepared. (Psalm 88:2,3) Gospel Matthew 4:12-17 Hymn to the Mother of God O my soul, magnify Christ the King, baptized in the Jordan. and the Irmos: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you. Communion Hymn The grace of God has appeared* bringing salvation to all. (Titus 2:11)* Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 148:1) Instead of “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):

Jan 11, 2025 - Saturday after Theophany; 🕂 Our Venerable Father Theodosius, Founder of the Cenoebitic Monastic Life.

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 11, 2025 Polyeleos Feast. Post-feast of Theophany. GREAT VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! When the Forerunner saw the One who is our enlightenment,* the One who has brought light to all,* coming to be baptized,* his heart rejoiced and his hand trembled.* He pointed Him out to the people and said:* This is the Saviour of Israel who delivered us from corruption.* O Christ our God, O Sinless One, glory to You! Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. O our Saviour, the armies of angels trembled* when they saw You baptized by your servant,* and the Holy Spirit bearing witness and descending,* and when they heard the voice of the Father speaking from heaven:* This One upon whom the Forerunner lays his hands* is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.* O Christ our God, glory to You! If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. When the Jordan River received You, O Fountainhead,* the Comforter descended in the form of a dove.* Now behold the marvel:* the One who bowed the heavens bows his head to the Forerunner,* and the one made of clay cries out to his Maker:* Why do You command me to perform what is beyond my power?* It is I who need to be baptized by You.* O Christ our God, O Sinless One, glory to You! Tone 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 venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius,* you struggled valiantly in your earthly life.* With hymns, fastings, and vigils,* you were a model for your disciples.* Now you rejoice with the angelic powers.* Without ceasing, you glorify Christ, who is God of God, and the Word,* the Deliverer who bowed his head to the Forerunner* and who sanctified the nature of water.* Implore Him and pray to Him, O venerable one,* that He grant to the Church* oneness of thought, peace, and his great mercy. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius,* you struggled valiantly in your earthly life.* With hymns, fastings, and vigils,* you were a model for your disciples.* Now you rejoice with the angelic powers.* Without ceasing, you glorify Christ, who is God of God, and the Word,* the Deliverer who bowed his head to the Forerunner* and who sanctified the nature of water.* Implore Him and pray to Him, O venerable one,* that He grant to the Church* oneness of thought, peace, and his great mercy. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius,* your desire was fulfilled when your soul was found to be pure.* The grace of the all-holy Spirit dwelt in you like a most pure light.* You were splendidly adorned by its action.* Without ceasing, you glorify Christ, the one Son in two natures,* who was baptized by the hand of the Forerunner* and who was attested to by the voice of the Father.* Implore Him and pray to Him, O venerable one,* that He grant to the whole world* oneness of thought, peace, and His great mercy. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius,* your desire was fulfilled when your soul was found to be pure.* The grace of the all-holy Spirit dwelt in you like a most pure light.* You were splendidly adorned by its action.* Without ceasing, you glorify Christ, the one Son in two natures,* who was baptized by the hand of the Forerunner* and who was attested to by the voice of the Father.* Implore Him and pray to Him, O venerable one,* that He grant to the whole world* oneness of thought, peace, and His great mercy. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O venerable Father, God-bearing Theodosius, * you made yourself worthy of a blessed life by chastity and fasting.* Passing over to the life above, * you asked all the brothers to rejoice with you.* With the bodiless powers you now unceasingly glorify Christ* who ineffably received his flesh from the Virgin* and who drowned our sins by his baptism in the currents of the Jordan.* Implore Him and pray to Him, O holy one,* that He grant to the whole world* oneness of thought, peace, and His great mercy. Tone 2, Glory… O venerable Father, like a city of the living God,* the movements of the river brought joy to your soul* when the Water of Forgiveness, Christ our God, entered the Jordan* and made the word of faith gush forth for the whole world.* Implore Him, O blessed Theodosius, to save our souls. Now… You have bowed your head before the Forerunner,* and You have crushed the heads of the demons.* You have descended into the waters* and given light to all things* that they may glorify You, O Saviour,* the enlightenment of our souls. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Readings (1) Wisdom 5:15-6:3; (2) Wisdom 3:1–9; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15 Aposticha Tone 4 The Lord said: You have seen how I clothed myself with your likeness.* I humbled myself beyond comprehension.* Why is it so strange then, O friend,* if I also bow down to your right hand as an equal?* I, who am naked, clothe myself with the waters,* because in my compassion* I desire to clothe the naked with eternal incorruption. The sea fled at the sight; the Jordan turned back on its course. You revealed yourself as incarnate, O Lord,* and a womb receiving You remained unburned* as it was foretold in that furnace of long ago* which did not burn the youths.* indeed am the straw, O Master,* and I place my hand as though upon the fire,* before which the heavenly and earthly creatures tremble,* O all-powerful Jesus, the Saviour of our souls. Why was it, O sea, that you fled, that you turned back, Jordan, on your course? The Lord said: In the waters of the Jordan,* wash Me even though I am without stain.* Human nature, which was stained by the transgression of Adam,* will now be washed anew;* because when I am baptized* there will be a renewal for all* through the water and the Spirit. Tone 8, Glory… Multitudes of monks venerate you as a guide, O Father Theodosius,* because we truly learned how to walk correctly by means of your path.* Blessed are you, for you served Christ.* You have confounded the power of the enemy,* for you speak with the angels.* You share the lot of the venerable and righteous ones.* Together with them, pray to the Lord* that He show mercy to our souls. Now… O Saviour, the heavenly hosts are frightened at what they see,* for today You stand naked in the waters;* your head is bowed down in order to be baptized by John,* for You willingly become poor in order to enrich the world.* O Lord, glory to You! Troparia Tone 8 With the streams of your tears you cultivated the barren desert,* with deep sighs your toils bore fruit a hundredfold.* You became a beacon, shining throughout the world by your wonders,* our venerable Father, Theodosius.* Pray to Christ God that our souls be saved. Tone 1, Glory… Now… When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Antiphon 1 When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course? Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Glory… Now… Only-Begotten Son… Antiphon 3 Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Entrance Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: 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. Troparion, Tone 8: With the streams of your tears you cultivated the barren desert,* with deep sighs your toils bore fruit a hundredfold.* You became a beacon, shining throughout the world by your wonders,* our venerable father, Theodosius.* Pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion: Tone 8: Planted in the courts of your Lord,* you blossomed beautifully with godly virtues* and multiplied your children in the desert* watering it with the streams of your tears.* O leader of God’s divine sheepfolds,* we cry out to you: Rejoice, O Father Theodosius. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord; God the Lord has appeared to us. verse: Give thanks to the Lord for He is good for His mercy endures forever. (Psalm 117:26-27,1) Prokeimenon, Tone 7 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His venerable ones. Epistle Ephesians 6:10-17; 2 Corinthians 4:6-15 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: Bring to the Lord, you sons of God; bring to the Lord young rams. verse: The voice of the Lord is over the waters, the God of glory has thundered, the Lord reigns over vast waters. (Psalm 28:1,3) verse: Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; he shall delight exceedingly in His commandments. (Psalm 111:1) Gospel Matthew 4:1-11; Matthew 11:27-30 Hymn to the Mother of God O my soul, magnify Christ the King, baptized in the Jordan. and the Irmos: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you. Communion Hymn The grace of God has appeared* bringing salvation to all.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Titus 2:11) Instead of “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):

Jan 10, 2025 - Our Holy Father Gregory, Bishop of Nyssa; The Venerable Dometian, Bishop of Miletene; The Venerable Marcian, Presbyter and Econome of the Great Church.

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 10, 2025 Post-feast of Theophany. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Our Light that enlightens all* comes to be baptized.* The Forerunner sees Him and rejoices in His soul.* His hand trembles as he shows Him to the people:* “Behold, the Redeemer of Israel,* the One who frees us from corruption.”* O sinless One, Christ our God, glory to You! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. A servant baptized our Redeemer* and the coming of the Spirit bore witness to Him.* The hosts of angels saw this and shook with fear.* And the voice of the Father was heard from heaven:* “The One on whom the Forerunner lays his hand,* He is My beloved Son; I am well pleased in Him.”* O Christ our God, glory to You! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The streams of the Jordan received You, their Source,* and the Comforter descended in the form of a dove.* He who bowed the heavens now bows His head.* The Clay cries aloud to the Potter:* “Why do You command me to do what is beyond me;* for it is I that should be baptized by You?”* O sinless One, Christ our God, glory to You! Tone 5 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O venerable Father Gregory, you are filled with holiness,* O reed filled with the breath of the Comforter,* O clearest tongue of piety* and many-splendored luminary of the divine Splendour,* O preacher of truth and foundation of theology,* fountain of sublime doctrine and rich teachings,* you are a flute inspired by God.* You delighted the thoughts of the faithful with your inspired hymns.* O all-wise one, implore Christ and pray to Him to save our race,* for He renewed the world in the streams of the Jordan. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O venerable Father Gregory, you are most worthy of honour,* you are the axe which chops down the assaults of the heretics.* You are the two-edged sword of the Comforter.* You are the shears that prune the wild branches* and the fire which burns up the brushwood of heresies.* Truly you are the winnowing fan* that defines both the simple and the difficult teachings.* You gave clear rules for the path of salvation.* Implore Christ and pray to Him to save our race,* for He renewed the world in the streams of the Jordan. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O venerable Father and all-blessed Gregory,* your mouth is filled with blessed words* which it draws from the unfailing and divine sources of salvation.* You explain the words of prayer for everyone,* and set down rules for virtue,* and are illumined by divine contemplation.* Enlightened by the splendour of the uncreated Trinity,* you were its invincible defender.* O all-wise one, implore Christ and pray to Him to save our race,* for He renewed the world in the streams of the*Jordan. Tone 4, Glory… Having adorned your words of wisdom with spotless virtue,* you were adorned in two ways, O Gregory of Nyssa:* you filled the people with wonder by your inspired preaching,* and you delighted them with your knowledge.* You wisely explained the One God in the Trinity.* Thus by your correct teachings You conquered the alien heresy;* you re-established the authority of the faith to the ends of the earth.* With the angelic powers you now stand in the presence of Christ,* and you seek peace and mercy for our souls. Tone 4, Now… Upon touching your immaculate head,* the hand of the Baptist trembled.* The streams of the Jordan turned back,* feeling unworthy to serve You.* How could the one who stood in awe of Joshua, the son of Nun,* be unafraid to stand before the Creator of Joshua?* You have completed all that was assigned to You, O Saviour,* so that You might redeem the world by your Epiphany,* for You alone love mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 2 May all creation sing hymns of praise to Christ* who was born of the Virgin* and is baptized in the Jordan today. The sea fled at the sight; the Jordan turned back on its course. May the Forerunner and the trumpet of the prophets cry out:* Bring the fruits of your good works to the Lord,* for He is baptized in the flowing waters. Why was it, O sea, that you fled, that you turned back, Jordan, on your course? Shining brilliantly from the heavens,* the divine Spirit is now ineffably seen in the form of a dove,* and it descends upon Christ. Tone 4, Glory… O Gregory, through your heavenly life you manifested God,* and your actions were filled with light* because of your divine contemplation.* You loved wisdom with a divine yearning;* you became rich through grace from the Spirit.* The sweetness of your words was like an abundance of honey.* You always delight the Church of God with your understanding of the divinity.* Therefore, you abide in heaven as a bishop,* and you pray without ceasing for us who observe your memory. Tone 4, Now… When John the Baptist saw You approach* the One who purifies the sin of the world by fire and the Spirit,* he cried out with fear and trembling, saying:* I am unworthy to place my hand on Your immaculate head.* Therefore, O Master, purify me by Your Epiphany,* for You alone love mankind. Troparia Tone 4 O God of our Fathers,* who always deals with us according to Your everlasting compassion,* take not Your mercy away from us;* but through the prayers of our fathers,* guide our lives along the ways of peace. Tone 1, Glory… Now… When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Antiphon 1 When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course? Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Glory… Now… Only-Begotten Son… Antiphon 3 Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Entrance Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light. Prokeimenon, Tone 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 Hebrews 7:18-25 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 Luke 21:37-22:8 and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat.” 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 “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):

Jan 9, 2025 - The Holy Martyr Polyeuctus.

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 9, 2025 Post-feast of Theophany. VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 8 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. In your humanity You presented yourself* to John in the Jordan, O Lord,* although You did not leave your heavenly throne.* You were seated with the Father,* yet You were baptized for us.* Since You are generous and the Lover of mankind,* You have freed the world from slavery to the enemy. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. In your humanity You clothed yourself* in the waters of the Jordan, O Lord.* You were given witness from on high* by the descent of the Spirit;* and the voice of the Father testified that You are His Son.* Now manifest yourself to us* and grant incorruption to our souls. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Lord, from all eternity* You were begotten in a unchangeable way from the Father.* In latter times You came and received the likeness of a servant.* As the Creator You also renewed our likeness,* for in your baptism You granted incorruption to our souls. 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. O Martyr, Christ led you away from the error of idolatry* and from the mire of the earth,* just as David was led from the abyss of passion.* For He mystically placed your feet upon the rock of divine knowledge* and granted you a recognition of himself.* Implore Him that we may all be saved. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Neither the love for your wife,* nor the yearning for your children,* nor your high rank, nor the wealth of possessions and riches* shook your strength of soul away from the true faith;* for your trust is in Christ, O all-blessed Polyeuctus. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Before the grace of your martyrdom,* you truly adorned yourself with righteous deeds.* Because of them you were made worthy* to be a faithful witness of Christ;* and you were devoutly baptized in his death by your blood. Tone 1, Glory… Today the angelic hosts dance with joy* in memory of the martyr Polyeuctus;* and the human race faithfully celebrates and joyfully cries out:* Rejoice, all-praiseworthy one!* You overcame the snares of the deceitful one,* and you were crowned by Christ with the crown of victory.* Rejoice, warrior of the great King and our Saviour;* you destroyed the altars of idols.* Rejoice, O strength of martyrs!* Pray that we may be delivered from every danger,* for in faith we observe your ever-precious memory. Tone 2, Now… Today the Creator of heaven and earth* approaches the Jordan River in the flesh;* the One who is free from sin seeks to be baptized* in order to cleanse the human race from the error of the enemy;* the Master of all is baptized at the hand of the servant* in order to grant us the cleansing through water.* Therefore, let us cry out to Him:* O God who has appeared to us, glory to You! Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 6 O incomprehensible One,* You stood before everyone in the waters!* You bowed Your head to the Forerunner.* O sinless One, by Your baptism* You sanctified and delivered the world from slavery. The sea fled at the sight; the Jordan turned back on its course. The Father's voice spoke from on high and said:* This is My Beloved Son.* And the Spirit gave witness, O Christ.* The mystery of the Trinity was made known* through Him who was baptized in the Jordan. Why was it, O sea, that you fled, that you turned back, Jordan, on your course? You sanctified the waters of the Jordan, O Saviour,* as well as the nature of water.* Therefore, the human race glorifies You* and praises your divine Ephiphany. Tone 4, Glory… Now… The One who clothes himself with light as with a robe* deigned, for our sakes, to become as we are.* Today He is clothed in the streams of the Jordan* even though He has no need to be purified.* He refashions us through the cleansing that He receives.* What a marvellous wonder!* He creates anew without fire* and refashions without tearing apart;* He grants salvation to those enlightened in Him,* Christ our God, the Saviour of our souls. Troparia Tone 4 O Lord our God, your holy martyr Polyeuctus,* has deserved the crown of immortality* on account of his good fight.* Armed with Your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through his prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls. Tone 1, Glory… Now… When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the Beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ our God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Antiphon 1 When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course? Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Glory… Now… Only-Begotten Son… Antiphon 3 Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Entrance Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light. Prokeimenon, Tone 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 Hebrews 7:1-6 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 Luke 21:28-33 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 “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):

Jan 8, 2025 - Our Venerable Father George the Chosebite; Holy Emilian the Confessor. Our Venerable Mother Dominica.

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 8, 2025 Post-feast of Theophany. VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O blessed one, the citadel of your soul* was never stormed by the assaults of temptation.* As a rampart before them, you placed your ascetic perseverance,* to keep you unwounded and untouched by the devil who wars against us.* Thus you are now present before the Master of all,* crowned as a conqueror. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Neither the length of the journey nor the difficulties encountered in its course* could dampen the ardor of your pilgrimage toward God.* For, once arrived, you had the joy of living in those places* where our God had walked.* With no other concern than progressing toward the heavenly Sion,* you persevered in the labors of asceticism. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Revealing the depth of your love,* you poured forth tears of compunction to the point of bathing the earth.* With your hair, you wiped dry the place where the feet of Christ had stood.* Thinking of Him whom you loved, seeing Him as though present,* and following His footsteps in spirit,* you made your soul radiant with the purest contemplation. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Rising in the West, O blessed one,* you went to the East as a brilliant star,* radiant in your works inspired by virtue,* to enlighten the soul and spirit of believers* by your resplendent miracles.* We call you blessed and celebrate your memory,* magnifying Christ who glorified you in holiness. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Pierced by the arrows of love for Christ, O illustrious Dominica,* you followed Him, refusing passing glory* and renouncing the pleasures of the flesh and all other joys of this life.* Thus, Jesus, the Lover of mankind and Savior of our souls,* made you dwell in the radiant bridal chamber. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Reproducing in yourself the Passion of your Lord and Creator,* as a creature of the Word, endowed with reason,* you overcame the unreasonable wanderings of the passions.* Thus, O praiseworthy virgin, you restored the likeness to Him in yourself,* appearing in truth as a pure image of God. Tone 1, Glory… Now… He who covers the heavens with clouds* is Himself today covered by the streams of the Jordan.* He who takes away the sins of the world* is cleansed that I may be made clean.* The Only-begotten Son of the Most High Father* receives from above the testimony of the consubstantial Spirit.* Let us cry aloud to Him: “O Christ our God, who have been made manifest,* glory to You!” Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 6 Light shone forth from You, O Jesus,* and You enlightened all mankind in your radiance* when You were baptized in the streams of the Jordan.* Being of the same Essence as the Father,* you were resplendent with all the divine brightness.* Illumined by it, the whole creation sings to You, O Christ:* “Blessed is Your Theophany; O our God, glory to You!” The sea fled at the sight; the Jordan turned back on its course. Come, let us purify our hearts in spirit,* in order that we may be filled with divine glory.* Seeing Christ baptized in the flesh in order to crush the head of the Tempter,* let us sing to Him with all our skill:* “Blessed is Your Theophany; O our God, glory to You!” Why was it, O sea, that you fled? That you turned back, Jordan, on your course? We are all consumed by thirst for You.* You let us drink from the fountain of life, O Jesus,* in the streams of the Jordan,* because of Your compassion, O Lover of mankind.* Thus refreshed at Your immortal fountain of light, O Christ, we sing to You:* “Blessed is Your Theophany: O our God, glory to You!” Tone 2, Glory… Now… O Lord, when John saw You coming to him at the Jordan River, he cried out:* “How do You, O Lord, who have no stain, come to me Your Servant?* In whose name shall I baptize You?* In the name of the Father You possess in Yourself?* In the name of the Son, while You are the very Son in the flesh?* In the name of the Holy Spirit whom you grant to the faithful with the breath of Your mouth?”* O God made manifest, have mercy on us. Troparia Tone 4 Come, people, and piously honour the memory of George.* Sing praises for his wonderful fasting* and praise Emilian for his teachings.* Let us sing out: Save our souls, O Christ,* through the intercession of these holy monks. Tone 8, Glory… In you, O venerable mother Dominica, the faithful image of God shone forth,* for you carried you cross and followed Christ.* You taught by your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away;* and how to value the soul, for it is immortal.* Therefore, your soul is forever in happiness with the angels. Tone 1, Now… When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Antiphon 1 When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course? Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Glory… Now… Only-Begotten Son… Antiphon 3 Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Entrance Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light. Prokeimenon, Tone 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 Hebrews 5:11-6:8 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 Luke 21:5-7, 10-11, 20-24 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 “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):

Jan 7, 2025 - 🕃 Synaxis of the Holy and Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist John.

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 7, 2025 Post-feast of Theophany. Great Doxology. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no psalms appointed to be chanted this evening. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The forerunner, beholding our Enlightener,* who illumines every man, coming to be baptized,* rejoices in soul and trembles.* He points to Him with his hand and says to the people:* “This is He who delivers Israel, who frees us from corruption!* O sinless Christ our God, glory be to You!” I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. When our Deliverer was baptized by His servant* and borne witness to by the coming of the Holy Spirit,* the angelic armies, looking on, were stricken with awe;* and a voice was borne down from the Father in heaven:* “He whom the forerunner baptized with his hand is My beloved Son,* in whom I have been well-pleased!”* O Christ our God, glory be to You! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The currents of the Jordan received You, the Wellspring,* and the Comforter descended upon You in the form of a dove.* You who bowed down the heavens bows Your head,* and clay cries out to the Potter:* “What do You command me to do, O You who are greater than I?* It is I who must needs be baptized of You!* O sinless Christ our God, glory be to You!” 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. Beholding You coming to him and requesting baptism, O Christ,* the forerunner cried out with trembling:* “Why do You command me to do that which is beyond my power?* How can I touch with my hand You who holds all things in You hand, O almighty Lord?* Better would it be that You baptize Your servant!” Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. “I, who am unapproachable by nature,* have manifested Myself as wholly man, accessible to you.* I, who am rich, have impoverished Myself willingly,* that I may enrich what has become impoverished with incorruption and deliverance.* Approach, then, and baptize Me who am not subject to corruption,* but rescue the world therefrom!” Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. “I am constrained on every side!* To where I shall flee, I know not!” the forerunner said to the Creator;* “As You are the torrent of nourishment, O Compassionate One,* how, then, can the river’s streams receive You who have come,* pouring forth salvation upon those* who honour Your holy epiphany, O Word?” Tone 6, Glory… O beacon in the flesh, forerunner of the Saviour,* offspring of a barren woman, friend of Him who came forth from the Virgin,* whom you worshipped by leaping up within your mother’s womb* and have baptized in the waters of the Jordan:* Him do you entreat, O prophet,* that we may escape the waves of tumult which are to come. Now… God the Word appeared in the flesh to the human race* and stood forth to be baptized in the Jordan.* And the forerunner said to Him:* “How can I stretch forth my hand and touch the head of You who hold all things?* Even though You are Mary’s Child, yet do I know You to be the pre-eternal God,* who are hymned by the seraphim and go about on the earth.* A servant knows not how to baptize his master.* O unapproachable Lord, glory be to You!” Great Prokeimenon, Tone 7 Our God is in heaven and on earth; all things whatsoever He has willed, He has done. verse: When Israel went out of Egypt, and the house of Jacob from among a barbarous people, Judea became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion. verse: The sea beheld and fled, the Jordan turned back. verse: What ails you, O sea, that you fled? And you, O Jordan, that you turned back? Aposticha Tone 6 When John the forerunner beheld You coming to him, O Master,* he was filled with awe,* and as a guileless servant he cried out with fear:* “What humility is this, O Saviour,* what poverty, wherein You have clothed Yourself,* lifting lowly man up in the richness of Your goodness,* in that You are compassionate,* having clothed Yourself in him?” The sea beheld and fled, the Jordan turned back. “Come to Me who am accomplishing the mystery of salvation!”* You responded to the forerunner;* and he obeyed You with fear, O Saviour of all,* and was not overcome with awe.* “For, restoring Adam, who was crushed by sin,* I am baptized as a man in the waters of the Jordan,* to which you see that I am come,* though I am undefiled by nature.” What ails you, O sea, that you fled? And you, O Jordan, that you turned back? “Who among mortals has seen the Sun cleansed?” John, answering, said,* “Him who clothes the sky with clouds stripped utterly naked,* and Him who creates the springs and rivers entering the waters?* I marvel at Your ineffable dispensation, O Master!* Burden not Your servant with fearsome commands!” Tone 6, Glory… As a lover of the Spirit,* a swallow who manifestly announces the gracious dispensation of God the King,* who shone forth brightly upon the human race* from the pure one to the restoration of men, O forerunner,* you shone forth, utterly lifting the spirits of the downcast,* and guiding aright the hearts of those who are baptized in repentance,* that they may receive everlasting life, O blessed God-pleaser. Now… Come, let us emulate the wise virgins!* Come, let us greet the Master who has appeared to us!* For He has come to John like a Bridegroom;* the Jordan, seeing You, was afraid and halted.* And John cried out: “I dare not touch the head of the Immortal One!”* The Spirit descended in the form of a dove, to sanctify the water.* And a voice was heard from heaven, saying:* “This is my Son who has come into the world to save the human race!”* O Lord, glory be to You! Troparia Tone 2 The just man is remembered with praises,* but for you the Lord’s testimony suffices, O Forerunner,* for you truly became more honourable than the prophets* and were deemed worthy to baptize the One foretold.* Then you suffered for the truth and joyfully announced to those in Hades* that God appeared in the flesh taking away the sin of the world* and offering us great mercy. Tone 1, Glory… Now… When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan,* worship of the Trinity was revealed;* the voice of the Father bore witness to You,* naming You the beloved Son,* and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the word’s certainty.* Glory to You, O Christ God,* who appeared and enlightened the world. DIVINE LTURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Antiphon 1 When Israel came forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from an alien people. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Judah became His sanctuary, Israel His dominion. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. The sea beheld this and fled,* the Jordan turned back on its course. Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Why was it, O sea, that you fled,* that you, O Jordan, turned back on your course? Through the prayers of the Mother of God,* O Saviour, save us. Glory… Now… Only-Begotten Son… Antiphon 3 Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God, our Saviour. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Let us come before His face with praise, and acclaim Him in psalms. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. For God is the great Lord, and the great king over all the earth. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Entrance Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ. Son of God, baptized by John in the Jordan, save us who sing to You: Alleluia. Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: 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. Troparion, Tone 2: The just man is remembered with praises,* but for you the Lord’s testimony suffices, O Forerunner,* for you truly became more honourable than the prophets* and were deemed worthy to baptize the One foretold.* Then you suffered for the truth and joyfully announced to those in Hades* that God appeared in the flesh taking away the sin of the world* and offering us great mercy. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 3: She who once was barren gives birth today to the Forerunner of Christ,* who will fulfil every prophecy.* In the Jordan he placed his hand upon the One Whom the prophets foretold,* and thus was shown to be the prophet, the herald,* and the Forerunner of the Word of God. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Today, You have appeared to the world* and Your light, O Lord, has been signed on us,* who with knowledge sing Your praises.* You have come, You have appeared, O unapproachable Light. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle Acts 19:1-8 Alleluia, Tone 5 verse: Light shines forth for the just and joy for the upright of heart. verse: Rejoice, you just, in the Lord; give glory to his holy name. (Psalm 96:11-12) Gospel John 1:29-34 Hymn to the Mother of God O my soul, magnify Christ the King, baptized in the Jordan. and the Irmos: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you. Communion Hymn The grace of God has appeared* bringing salvation to all. (Titus 2:11)* The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6) 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):

Jan 6, 2025 - The Holy Theophany of Our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 6, 2025 Feast of our Lord. Holy Day of obligation. GREAT VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING At Psalm 140 Tone 2 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! When the Forerunner saw our Enlightener,* who enlightens all mankind,* draw near to be baptized,* 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. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. When the Forerunner saw our Enlightener,* who enlightens all mankind,* draw near to be baptized,* 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. 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:* “The One on 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. 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:* “The One on 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. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The streams of the Jordan received You, the Fountain,* and the Advocate descended in the form of a dove.* He who bowed the heavens, bowed His head,* and the clay cried out to the One who formed him:* “Why do You order me to do what is beyond my power?* For I need to be baptized by You.”* O sinless Christ our God, glory to You. 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, the Fountain,* and the Advocate descended in the form of a dove.* He who bowed the heavens, bowed His head,* and the clay cried out to the One who formed him:* “Why do You order me to do what is beyond my power?* For I need to be baptized by You.”* O sinless Christ our God, glory to You. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Wishing to save the human race that had gone astray,* You did not disdain 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 sake.* For You, O Deliverer, were baptized in the flesh, making us worthy of forgiveness.* Therefore we cry out to You:* O Christ our God and Benefactor, glory to You. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Wishing to save the human race that had gone astray,* You did not disdain 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 sake.* For You, O Deliverer, were baptized in the flesh, making us worthy of forgiveness.* Therefore we cry out to You:* O Christ our God and Benefactor, glory to You. Glory… Now… You bowed Your head before the Forerunner* and crushed the heads of the dragons.* You descended into the waters* and gave light to all things,* that they may glorify You, O Savior,* our souls’ Enlightenment. Prokeimenon of the day Readings Genesis 1: 1-13 In the beginning God made heaven and earth. The earth was invisible and unfinished; and darkness was over the deep. The Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the water. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. God saw the light; it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day; the darkness He called Night; and there was evening and morning, one day. Then God said, “Let there be a firmament in the midst of the water, and let it divide the water from the water”; and it was so. Thus God made the firmament, and God divided the water under the firmament from the water above the firmament. So God called the firmament Heaven, and God saw that it was good; and there was evening and morning, the second day. Then God said, “Let the water under heaven be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear”; and it was so. The water under heaven was gathered into its places, and the dry land appeared. So God called the dry land Earth, and the gathering together of the waters He called Seas; and God saw that it was good. Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth the herb of grass, bearing seed according to its kind and likeness. Let the fruit tree bear fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind on earth.” It was so. Thus the earth brought forth the herb of grass, bearing seed according to its kind and likeness. The fruit tree bore fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind on earth. God saw that it was good. So evening and morning were the third day. Exodus 14: 15-18, 21-23, 27-29 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward. Now lift up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it; and let the children of Israel go on dry ground through the midst of the sea. I indeed will harden Pharaoh’s heart and all the Egyptians, and they will go in after them. So I will be glorified in Pharaoh and over all his army, his chariots, and his horses. Then the Egyptians will know I am the Lord, when I am glorified upon Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horses.” Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord carried back the sea by a strong south wind all that night and made the sea dry ground. Thus the waters were divided. So the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea on the dry ground, and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. Then the Egyptians pursued and went after them into the midst of the sea, all Pharaoh’s horses, chariots, and horsemen. So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and when the morning appeared, the sea returned to its full depth, while the Egyptians were trying to flee. But the Lord shook off the Egyptians in the midst of the sea. Then the waters returned and covered the chariots, the horsemen, and all of Pharaoh’s army that came into the sea after them. Not so much as one of them remained. But the children of Israel walked on dry ground in the midst of the sea. The waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. Exodus 15: 22- 16: 1 Moses brought Israel from the Red Sea; then they went out into the Wilderness of Shur. They went three days in the desert and found no water to drink. Now when they came to Marah, they could not drink the waters of Marah, for they were bitter. Therefore he named that place Bitterness. Then the people complained against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” So he cried to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a tree. When he cast it into the waters, the waters were made sweet. There He made a statute and an ordinance for them. There He proved him† and said, “If you diligently heed the voice of the Lord your God and do what is pleasing in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His ordinances, I will put none of the diseases on you that I brought on the Egyptians; for I am the Lord your God who heals you.” Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve fountains of water and seventy palm trees; so they camped there by the waters. Now they journeyed from Elim, and all the congregation of the children of Israel came to the Wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after they departed from the land of Egypt. 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 Lord said to Joshua, “Today I shall begin to exalt you in the sight of all the children of Israel, so they will know that I shall be with you as I was with Moses. Therefore now, command the priests who carry the ark of the covenant, saying, ‘As soon as you enter a part of the water of the Jordan, then you shall stand in the Jordan.’ “ Now when the priests who carried the ark of the covenant came to the Jordan, and the feet of the priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord dipped in part of the water of the Jordan (now the Jordan overflowed all its banks about the time of wheat harvest), then the upstream waters stopped flowing downstream, and a solid wall of water formed over a very great distance, as far as the region of Adam. The lower part came down to the Sea of Araba, the Salt Sea, until it came to a complete stop; and the people stood opposite Jericho. So the priests who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood on dry ground in the midst of the Jordan; and all the children of Israel crossed on dry ground, until all the people crossed the Jordan. The Fourth Book of Kings (2 Kings) 2:6-14 Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here, please, for the Lord sent me on to the Jordan.” But Elisha said, “As the Lord lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!” So both of them went on. Fifty men of the sons of the prophets went and stood facing them at a distance, while the two of them stood by the Jordan. Now Elijah took his mantle, rolled it up, and struck the water. The water divided this way and that, and the two of them crossed on dry ground. So it was that during the time they crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I may do for you, before I am taken away from you.” Elisha said, “Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me.” So Elijah said, “You have asked a hard thing. If you see me when I am taken up from you, it shall be so for you; and if not, it shall not be so.” Thus it came to be, as they walked and continued to talk, behold a chariot of fire appeared with horses of fire, and the fire separated them one from the other; and Elijah was taken up into heaven by a whirlwind. Then Elisha saw it and cried aloud, “Father, O father, the chariot of Israel and its horsemen!” He saw Elijah no more, and he took hold of his own clothes and tore them into two pieces. Then he raised Elijah’s mantle, which fell from Elijah and upon Elisha, and Elisha returned and stood on the bank of the River Jordan. He took Elijah’s mantle which had fallen upon him and struck the water, but it did not divide. Then he said, “Where is the Lord God of Elijah himself?” And he struck the water again, and it divided this way and that. So Elisha crossed over. The Fourth Book of Kings (2 Kings) 5:9-14 Naaman went with his horses and chariot and stood at the door of Elisha’s house. And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, “Go and bathe in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored to you, and you shall be clean.” But Naaman became furious and went away, saying, “Indeed, I told myself that Elisha would come out to greet me; that he would stand and call on the name of his God; and that he would put his hand upon the place and heal the leprosy. Are not the Abanah and the Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Can I not bathe in them and be clean?” So he turned and went away in a rage. Then his servants approached and said to him, “If the prophet were to tell you to do something great, would you not complete it? But here the prophet said to you, ‘Bathe and be clean.’ “ So Naaman went down and dipped seven times in the Jordan, according to Elisha’s instruction, and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was cleansed. Then the priest intones another Troparion in Tone 6: In the greatness of Your compassion, You have revealed Yourself, O our Saviour, 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 Thus says the Lord, “Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean. Put away the evils from your souls before My eyes. Cease from your evils. Learn to do good. Seek judgment and redeem the wronged. Defend the orphan and justify the widow. Come now, and let us reason together,” says the Lord, “although your sins are like crimson, I shall make them white like snow, and although they are as scarlet, I shall make them white like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good things of the land. But if you are unwilling and disobedient, you shall be devoured by the sword,” for the mouth of the Lord has spoken. Genesis 32:1-10 Early in the morning, Laban arose, and kissed his sons and daughters and blessed them. Then Laban departed and returned to his place. So Jacob went on his way, and saw the hosts of God encamped. When Jacob saw them, he said, “This is God’s encampment”; and he called the name of that place Encampments. Then Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother in the land of Seir, the country of Edom. And he commanded them, saying, “Speak thus to my lord Esau, ‘Thus your servant Jacob says, “I sojourned with Laban and stayed there until now. I have oxen, donkeys, sheep, and male and female servants; and I have sent to tell my lord, that I may find grace in your sight.” ‘ “ Then the messengers returned to Jacob, saying, “We came to your brother Esau, and he also is coming to meet you, and four hundred men with him.” So Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed; and he divided the people with him and the oxen and sheep into two companies. Thus Jacob said, “If Esau comes to the one company and destroys it, then the other company will escape.” Again Jacob said, “O God of my father Abraham and God of my father Isaac, the Lord who said to me, ‘Return to the land of your nativity, and I will deal well with you,’ let me be satisfied with all the righteousness and all the truth You have shown Your servant; for I crossed over this Jordan with my staff, and now I have become two companies. Exodus 2:5-10 The daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the river, and her maidens walked along the riverside; and seeing the ark among the reeds, she sent a maid to get it. So when she opened the ark, she saw the child crying, and the daughter of Pharaoh had compassion on him and said, “This is one of the Hebrews’ children.” Then his sister said to Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and call a nurse for you from the Hebrew women, that she may nurse the child for you?” So Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Go.” Then the maiden went and called the child’s mother. Pharaoh’s daughter then said to her, “Take this child and nurse him for me, and I will pay you.” So the woman took the child and nursed him. Now when the boy was grown, she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, and he became her son; and she called his name Moses, saying, “Because I drew him out of the water.” Judges 6:36-40 Gideon said to God, “If You save Israel by my hand as You said, then look, I shall put a fleece of wool on the threshing floor. If there is dew on the fleece only, and it is dry on all the ground, then I shall know that You will save Israel by my hand, as You said.” And it was so. And he rose early the next morning and wrung the fleece and from the fleece dropped enough dew to fill a pan full of water. Then Gideon said to God, “Indeed, I pray, do not let Your anger be aroused at me, and I will speak but once; I will yet make one more trial with the fleece. This time, let it be dry on the fleece, but let there be dew all over the ground.” And that night God made it so; on the fleece it was completely dry, but there was dew all over the ground. The Third Book of Kings (1 Kings) 18:30-39 Elijah said to the people, “Come near me.” So all the people came near to him. Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of Israel, for the Lord said, “Israel shall be your name.” Then he built an altar with the stones in the name of the Lord, and he repaired the altar of sacrifice that was scattered about, and around the altar he made a furrow holding two measures of seed. He piled the firewood on the altar he had made, divided the whole burnt offering, laid it on the firewood, and laid it in order on the altar. Then he said, “Bring me four pots of water, and pour it on the whole burnt offering and pour it on the unlit firewood.” They did so. Again Elijah said, “Do it a second time.” So they did it again. Again he said, “Do it a third time.” So they did it a third time. And the water ran all about the altar, and even the furrow became filled with water. After this, Elijah cried out to heaven and said, “O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, answer me, O Lord, answer me this day with fire, and let this people know You are the God of Israel, and I am Your servant; and for Your sake I do all these works. Hear me, O Lord, hear me with fire, and let these people know You are the Lord God, so as turn the heart of this people back.” Then fire fell from the Lord out of the heaven and consumed the whole burnt offering, the firewood, and the water in the furrow. The fire also licked up the stones and the soil. So all the people fell on their faces, and they said, “Truly, the Lord is God; He is God.” The Fourth Book of Kings (2 Kings) 2:19-22 The men of the city said to Elisha, “Behold, as my lord can see, this city is a pleasant place to live, but the water is bad, and the ground is barren.” So Elisha said, “Bring me a new water pitcher and put salt in it.” So they brought it to him. Then he went out to the spring of the waters and cast salt into it, and said, “Thus says the Lord: ‘I have healed these waters; from them there shall no longer be death or barrenness.’” So the water was healed by the word Elisha spoke, and so it remains today. Isaiah 49:8-15 Thus says the Lord: hear this now, you who are given to pleasures, who sit in confidence, who says in her heart, ‘I am, and there is no other; I shall not sit as a widow, nor shall I know bereavement.’ But now these two things shall come upon you in a moment, in one day: widowhood and the loss of children. They shall come upon you in a moment because of your sorcery, the great abundance of your enchanters, and your hope of evil. For you said, ‘I am, and there is no other.’ Know that your understanding of these things and your fornication will be your shame, for you said in your heart, ‘I am, and there is no other.’ Therefore destruction shall come upon you, and you shall not know the pit into which you will fall. Trouble shall come upon you, and you will be unable to be clear of it. Destruction shall come upon you suddenly, but you will not know it. Stand now with your enchantments and the multitude of your sorceries which you learned from your youth, if you will be able to profit from this. You are wearied in your counsels. Let the astrologers, the stargazers, and the monthly prognosticators stand up and save you from what shall come upon you. Behold, all these shall be burned like sticks in a fire, and they shall not deliver their soul from the flame. For you have coals of fire to sit on, and these shall be your help. You grew weary in your traffic from youth, and each man led himself astray, but there shall be no salvation for you. Small Litany Trisagion Prokeimenon, Tone 3 The Lord is my light and my Saviour* whom shall I fear (whom shall I fear). verse: The Lord is the protector of my life; of whom shall I be afraid. Epistle 1 Corinthians: 9: 19-27 A reading from the First Epistle of the Holy Apostle Paul to the Corinthians. 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 4 verse: My heart erupts with a goodly theme; I address my words to the king. verse: You are the most splendidly beautiful of men. Gospel Luke 3: 1-18 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. Triple Ekteny Deign, O Lord Ekteny of Supplication Great Blessing of the Water FESTAL MATINS ON MONDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord The Lord is God, Tone 1 Troparion, Tone 1 At Your Baptism in the Jordan river, O Christ,* the worship due to the Holy Trinity was made manifest,* for the voice of the Father bore You witness by calling You “Beloved Son”* and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove,* confirmed the immutability of this declaration.* O Christ God, who came forth and filled the world with light: * Glory to You! (2) Glory… Now… At Your Baptism in the Jordan river, O Christ,* the worship due to the Holy Trinity was made manifest,* for the voice of the Father bore You witness by calling You “Beloved Son”* and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove,* confirmed the immutability of this declaration.* O Christ God, who came forth and filled the world with light: * Glory to You! Kathisma Reading I The appointed psalms are chanted. Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 3 You have appeared, O Saviour Christ, in the Jordan* and were baptized by the Forerunner:* and testimony was borne to You, that You are the Beloved Son.* So You were revealed as co-eternal with the Father,* and the Holy Spirit descended upon You.* Enlightened by You, we cry: Glory to God in Trinity. Tone 4, Glory… Now… You have sanctified the streams of the Jordan* and crushed the power of sin, O Christ our God.* You have bowed Your head beneath the hand of the Forerunner,* and have delivered mankind from error.* Therefore we pray to You: save Your world. Kathisma Reading II The appointed psalms are chanted. Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 5 You have wrapped Yourself in the stream of the Jordan,* O You who gloriously clothe Yourself in light,* and You have renewed therein the nature of Adam,* broken by evil disobedience, O Word of God.* Therefore, we praise You and glorify Your holy Epiphany. Tone 4, Glory… Now… O river Jordan, what have you seen to be amazed?* He said, “I have seem Him naked Who cannot be seen, and I trembled.* How should I not tremble before Him and turn back?”* The angles, beholding Him, were afraid:* heaven was filled with wonder and the earth shook,* the sea and all things visible and invisible withdrew.* Christ has appeared in the Jordan to sanctify the waters. Polyeleos Exaltation We extol You,* O Christ the Giver of life,* for You were baptized for us this day in the flesh by John* in the waters of the Jordan. verse: O God, be gracious and bless us, and let Your face shine upon us, and have mercy on us. verse: The Lord thundered from heaven; the Most High made His voice resound. verse: The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the waters have lifted up their voice. verse: The waters saw You, O God, the waters saw You and were afraid. Glory… Now… Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. Glory be to You, O God. (3) Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 O you faithful, come and see where Christ was baptized,* that we may further follow Him to the river Jordan,* and so may draw near to the voice crying in the wilderness,* and behold there how the Creator of Adam suffers His head* to be touched by the hand of a servant in His ineffable loving-kindness.* And let us cry aloud to Him:* You have come and appeared in the Jordan to sanctify the waters. Glory… Now… O you faithful, come and see where Christ was baptized,* that we may further follow Him to the river Jordan,* and so may draw near to the voice crying in the wilderness,* and behold there how the Creator of Adam suffers His head* to be touched by the hand of a servant in His ineffable loving-kindness.* And let us cry aloud to Him:* You have come and appeared in the Jordan to sanctify the waters. Gradual Hymns, Tone 4 Antiphon 1 From my youth do many passions war against me;* but do You Yourself defend* and save me, O my Saviour. You haters of Sion shall be shamed by the Lord;* for like grass, by the fire* shall you be withered. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit, every soul is quickened,* and, through cleansing, is exalted* and made radiant* by the Triple Unity in a hidden sacred manner. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The sea fled at the sight;* the Jordan turned back on its course. verse: What ailed you, O sea, that you fled? And you, O Jordan, that you turned back? Let Everything That Has Breath, Tone 4 Gospel Mark 1:9-11 After Psalm 50, Tone 6 Glory… All creation* is filled with rejoicing* for Christ is baptized in the Jordan. Now… All creation* is filled with rejoicing* for Christ is baptized in the Jordan. Have mercy on me, God, in your loving kindness, according to the multitude of your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. God the Word appeared to mankind in the flesh.* Ready for baptism, He stood in the Jordan and the Forerunner said to Him:* “How shall I stretch forth my hand and touch the head of Him that rules all things?* Though You are the child of Mary,* yet I do know You to be the pre-eternal God.* You whose praises the seraphim sing walk upon the earth.* And I who am but a servant know not how to baptize the Master.”* O Lord past all understanding, glory to You. Canon Ode 1, Tone 2 Irmos The Lord mighty in battle uncovered the foundation of the deep and led His servants on dry ground; but He covered their adversaries with the waters, for He has been glorified. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The Lord, King of the ages, in the streams of the Jordan formed Adam anew, who was fallen into corruption, and He broke in pieces the heads of the dragons that were hidden there: for He has been glorified. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The Lord, incarnate of the Virgin, having clothed material flesh with the immaterial fire of His divinity, wraps Himself in the waters of the Jordan, for He has been glorified. Most holy Theotokos, save us! The Lord who purges away the filth of men was cleansed in the Jordan for heir sake, having of His own will made Himself like unto them, while still remaining that which He was; and He enlightens those in darkness, for He has been glorified. Irmos Israel passed through the storm-tossed deep of the sea, that God had turned into dry land: but the dark waters completely covered the chief captains of Egypt in a watery grave through the mighty strength of the right hand of the Master. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! When the Light of the Dawn shone forth upon mortal men, coming from the desert to the streams of the Jordan, You, the King of the Sun, have bowed Your head before him, so that you might snatch our forefather from the land of darkness, and cleanse the creation from all its filth. Glory… Now… O Word without beginning, You have buried man with You in the stream: he was corrupted by error, but You make him new again. And the Father testified to You ineffably, saying with a mighty voice: “This is My beloved Child, equal to Me by nature.” Katavasia The Lord mighty in battle uncovered the foundation of the deep and led His servants on dry ground; but He covered their adversaries with the waters, for He has been glorified. Katavasia Israel passed through the storm-tossed deep of the sea, that God had turned into dry land: but the dark waters completely covered the chief captains of Egypt in a watery grave through the mighty strength of the right hand of the Master. Ode 3, Tone 2 Irmos The Lord who gives strength to our kings and exalts the horn of His anointed, is born of a Virgin and comes to baptism. Therefore, let us the faithful cry aloud: None is holy as our God and none is righteous save You, O Lord. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Rejoice today, O Church of Christ, that before was barren and sadly childless. For through water and the Spirit sons have been born to you, who raise they cry in faith: Non is holy as our God and none is righteous save You, O Lord. Most holy Theotokos, save us! With a loud voice the Forerunner cries in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of Christ and make straight the paths for our God, raising your cry in faith: None is holy as our God and none is righteous save You, O Lord.” Irmos From the ancient snares have we all been set loose, and the jaws of the devouring lions have been broken: Let us then rejoice exceedingly and open wide our mouths, weaving with words a melody to the Word whose delight it is to bestow gifts upon us. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! He who once assumed the appearance of a malignant serpent and implanted death in the creation, is now cast into darkness by Christ’s coming in the flesh: and by assailing the Master, the Dawn that has shone forth upon us, He crushes his own hateful and loathsome head. Glory… Now… The Master draws to Himself the nature made by God, which had been overcome by the tyranny of greed. A new birth He grants to the dwellers upon earth, fashioning them afresh, thereby accomplishing a glorious work: for He has come to deliver and protect mankind. Katavasia The Lord who gives strength to our kings and exalts the horn of His anointed, is born of a Virgin and comes to baptism. Therefore, let us the faithful cry aloud: None is holy as our God and none is righteous save You, O Lord. Katavasia From the ancient snares have we all been set loose, and the jaws of the devouring lions have been broken: Let us then rejoice exceedingly and open wide our mouths, weaving with words a melody to the Word whose delight it is to bestow gifts upon us. Hypakoi, Tone 5 When You brought light to all things by Your Epiphany, the salt sea of unbelief fled and the Jordan was turned back towards its source, thereby exalting us to heaven. By the height of Your divine commandments, preserve us through the intercessions of the Theotokos, O Christ our God, and have mercy on us. Ode 4 Irmos He whom You have called, O Lord, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness,” heard Your voice when You thundered upon many waters, bearing witness to Your Son. Wholly filled with the Spirit that had come, he cried aloud: “You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! “Who has ever seen the sun that is bright by nature being cleansed?” the Preacher cried. “How then shall I wash You in the waters, You who are the Brightness of the Glory, the Image of the everlasting Father” How shall I that am grass touch with my hand the fire of Your divinity? For You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! “Moses, when he came upon You, displayed the holy reverence that he felt: perceiving that it was Your voice that spoke from the bush, he forthwith turned away his gaze. How then shall I behold You openly, how shall I lay my hand upon You? For You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.” Most holy Theotokos, save us! “Endowed with an understanding soul and honoured with the power of reason, I yet respect the things that have no soul. For is I baptize You, I shall have as my accusers the mountain that smoked with fire, the sea which fled on either side, and this same Jordan which turned back. For You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.” Irmos Cleansed by the fire of a mystic vision the Prophet sang the praises of the renewal of mortal man. Filled with the inspiration of the Spirit, he raised his voice, telling of the Incarnation of the ineffable Word, Who has shattered the dominion of the strong. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! O Word all-shining, sent forth from the Father, You come to dispel utterly the dark and evil night and the sins of mortal men, and by Your baptism to draw up with You, O blessed Lord, bright sons from the streams of the Jordan. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! When he saw in very truth the glorious Word, the Preacher cried out plainly to the creation: “This is He who was before me, though He comes after me according to the flesh. Like us in form, He has shone forth in the strength of the Godhead, to drive away our hateful sin.” Glory… Now… That He may lead us back to the life-giving pastures of Paradise, God the Word goes searching for us in the lairs of the dragons. Destroying the terrible snares which the enemy had laid for man, He makes a prisoner of him who bruised all mankind in the heel, and so He saves creation. Katavasia He whom You have called, O Lord, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness,” heard Your voice when You thundered upon many waters, bearing witness to Your Son. Wholly filled with the Spirit that had come, he cried aloud: “You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.” Katavasia Cleansed by the fire of a mystic vision the Prophet sang the praises of the renewal of mortal man. Filled with the inspiration of the Spirit, he raised his voice, telling of the Incarnation of the ineffable Word, Who has shattered the dominion of the strong. Ode 5 Irmos Jesus, the Prince of Life, has come to set loose from condemnation Adam the first-formed man; and though as God He needs no cleansing, yet for the sake of fallen man He is cleansed in the Jordan. In its streams He slew the enmity and grants the peace that passes all understanding. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! A multitude without number came to be baptized by John; and standing in their midst he raised his voice, saying: “You who are disobedient, who has warned you to shun the wrath to come? Offer worthy fruits to Christ, for He is present now and grants peace.” Glory… Now… The Husbandman and Creator stands in men’s’ midst as one of them and searches their hearts. In His hand He has taken the winnowing fan, and in the fullness of His wisdom He cleanses the threshing floor of the whole world, dividing wheat from chaff, burning the barren and granting eternal life to those that bring forth good fruit. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Irmos By the cleansing of the Spirit have we been washed from the poison of the dark and unclean enemy, and we have set out upon a new path free from error, that leads to gladness of heart past all attainment, which only they attain whom God has reconciled unto Himself. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The Maker saw in the obscurity of sin, in bonds that knew no escape, the man whom He had formed with His own hand. Raising him up, He laid him on His shoulders, and now in abundant floods He washes him clean from the ancient shame of Adam’s sinfulness. Glory… Now… In piety and eagerness let us run to the undefiled fountains of the stream of salvation, and let us look upon the Word who gives us to drink from pure waters that satisfy our holy thirst: and gently He heals the disease of the world. Katavasia Jesus, the Prince of Life, has come to set loose from condemnation Adam the first-formed man; and though as God He needs no cleansing, yet for the sake of fallen man He is cleansed in the Jordan. In its streams He slew the enmity and grants the peace that passes all understanding. Katavasia By the cleansing of the Spirit have we been washed from the poison of the dark and unclean enemy, and we have set out upon a new path free from error, that leads to gladness of heart past all attainment, which only they attain whom God has reconciled unto Himself. Ode 6 Irmos The Voice of the Word, the Candlestick of the Light, the Morning Star and Forerunner of the Sun, cried in the wilderness to all the peoples: “Repent and be cleansed while there is yet time. For lo, Christ is at hand, who delivers the world from corruption.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Christ was begotten without change from God the Father, and made flesh without defilement from the Virgin: and as the Forerunner teaches, it is not possible to lose the latchet of His shoes, the bond that joins the Word to our nature. He it is who delivers those born on earth from error. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Christ baptizes in the fire of the Last Day those who are disobedient and believe not that He is God: but through the Spirit and by the grace that comes through water He grants a new birth to all who acknowledge His divinity, delivering them from their faults. Irmos The Father in a voice full of joy made manifest His Beloved whom He had begotten from the womb. He said, “Truly this is My offspring, of the same nature as Myself: bearing light, he has come forth from mankind, My living Word, in divine providence made a mortal man.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The Prophet, mysteriously swallowed up for the space f three nights in the belly of the sea monster, came forth again, making manifest beforehand to all our regeneration at the last times and our deliverance from the dragon that slays mankind. Glory… Now… When the shining vaults of heaven were opened, He who knew the mysteries saw the Spirit, who proceeds from the Father and rests on the immaculate Word, descending in ways past speech in the form of a dove: and he commanded the multitudes to hasten to the Master. Katavasia The Voice of the Word, the Candlestick of the Light, the Morning Star and Forerunner of the Sun, cried in the wilderness to all the peoples: “Repent and be cleansed while there is yet time. For lo, Christ is at hand, who delivers the world from corruption.” Katavasia The Father in a voice full of joy made manifest His Beloved whom He had begotten from the womb. He said, “Truly this is My offspring, of the same nature as Myself: bearing light, he has come forth from mankind, My living Word, in divine providence made a mortal man.” Kontakion, Tone 4 You have appeared today to the inhabited earth,* and Your light, O Lord, has been marked upon us,* who with knowledge,* sing Your praise:* You have come, You are made manifest,* the Light that no one can approach. Ikos Upon Galilee of the Gentiles, upon the land of Zabulon and the land of Nephthalim, as the prophet said, a great light has shone, even Christ. To those that sat in darkness a bright dawn has appeared as lightning from Bethlehem. The Lord born from Mary, the Sun of Righteousness, sheds His rays upon the whole inhabited earth. Come then, naked children of Adam, and let us clothe ourselves in Him, that we may warm ourselves. You who are a protection and veil to the naked, a light to those in darkness, You have come, You are made manifest, the Light that no one can approach. Ode 7 Irmos The breath of the wind heavy with dew and the descent of the angel of God preserved the Holy Children from all harm, as they walked in the fiery furnace. Refreshed with dew in the flames, they sang in thanksgiving: “Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our fathers.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! In trembling and wonder as if in heaven, the angelic powers stood by the Jordan, watching the great condescension of God: how He who holds dominion over the waters that are above the firmament stood in the waters in bodily form, he who is the God of our fathers. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The sea and cloud in which the people of Israel were once baptized by Moses the Lawgiver, as hey journeyed from Egypt, prefigured the wonder of the baptism of God. he sea was an image of the water and the cloud an image of the Spirit, whereby we are initiated and cry aloud: Blessed are You, O God of our fathers. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O let us all, the faithful, discoursing on divine things, join the angels in never-silent hymn to glorify the God in whom we have received initiation, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the Trinity, consubstantial in Persons yet one God, to whom we sing: Blessed are You, O Lord God of our fathers. Irmos He who stilled the heat of the flame of the furnace that mounted high in the air and encircled the godly Children, burnt the heads of the dragons in the stream of the Jordan: and with the dew of the Spirit He washes away all the stubborn obscurity of sin. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The fierce Assyrian flame that prefigured You has been quenched by You, changing it to dew: and now You have clothed Yourself in water, O Christ, and so burn up the evil spoiler hidden in its depths, who calls men to follow the path that leads to destruction. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Of old the Jordan was parted in two, and the people of Israel passed over on a narrow piece of dry land, prefiguring You, O Lord most powerful, who now makes haste to bear the creation down into the stream, bringing it to a better and changeless path. Glory… Now… We know that in the beginning You brought upon the world the all-ruining flood, unto the lamentable destruction of all things, O God who reveal wonders more great and strange: and now, O Christ, You have drowned sin in the waters unto the comfort and salvation of mortal men. Katavasia The breath of the wind heavy with dew and the descent of the angel of God preserved the Holy Children from all harm, as they walked in the fiery furnace. Refreshed with dew in the flames, they sang in thanksgiving: “Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our fathers.” Katavasia He who stilled the heat of the flame of the furnace that mounted high in the air and encircled the godly Children, burnt the heads of the dragons in the stream of the Jordan: and with the dew of the Spirit He washes away all the stubborn obscurity of sin. Ode 8 Irmos The Babylonian furnace, as it poured forth dew, foreshadowed a marvellous mystery: how the Jordan should receive in its streams the immaterial fire, and should encompass the Creator, when he was baptized in the flesh. All you peoples, bless and exalt Him above all forever. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The Deliverer said to the Forerunner: “Cast aside all fear and, obedient to My command, draw near Me, for by nature I am good and full of love. Yield to My ordinance and baptize Me, who have come down in condescension, whom the peoples bless and exalt forever.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! When the Baptist heard the Master’s words, he stretched out his hand in trembling; and as he touched the head of his Creator, he cried aloud to Him who was baptized: “Sanctify me, for You are my God, whom the peoples bless and exalt above all forever.” Most holy Theotokos, save us! The Trinity was made manifest in the Jordan. For, supreme in Godhead, the Father proclaimed, saying, “He who is here baptized is My beloved Son,” and the Spirit rested upon His Equal in Godhead, whom the peoples bless and exalt above all forever. Irmos The creation finds itself free, and those in darkness are now made sons of light: alone the prince of darkness groans. Let all the inheritance of the nations, that was before in misery, now bless with eagerness Him who has wrought this change. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The three godly Children who were sprinkled with the dew of fire plainly prefigured how the Most High God, who shines with the bright rays of a threefold holiness, should mingle with mortal men, to their great blessing, consuming all deadly error in the fire of dew. Glory… Now… Let the whole earthly creation clothe itself in white, for this day it is raised up from it fall from heaven. The Word who preserves all things has cleansed it in the flowing waters: washed and resplendent, it has escaped from its former sins. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia The Babylonian furnace, as it poured forth dew, foreshadowed a marvellous mystery: how the Jordan should receive in its streams the immaterial fire, and should encompass the Creator, when he was baptized in the flesh. All you peoples, bless and exalt Him above all forever. Katavasia The creation finds itself free, and those in darkness are now made sons of light: alone the prince of darkness groans. Let all the inheritance of the nations, that was before in misery, now bless with eagerness Him who has wrought this change. Ode 9 O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honour than the hosts on high Irmos Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you. O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honour than the hosts on high Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you. O my soul, magnify Christ the King, baptized in the Jordan. O David, come in spirit to those who are now to be enlightened and sing: “Approach now to God in faith and receive enlightenment. Fallen Adam, the poor man, cried and the Lord heard him: he has come and in the streams of the Jordan He has made him new again, who was sunk in corruption.” O my soul, magnify Him who receives baptism from the Forerunner. O David, come in spirit to those who are now to be enlightened and sing: “Approach now to God in faith and receive enlightenment. Fallen Adam, the poor man, cried and the Lord heard him: he has come and in the streams of the Jordan He has made him new again, who was sunk in corruption.” O my soul, magnify Him to whom the voice of the Father bore witness. “Wash you, make you clean,” says Isaiah. “Put away the evil of your doings from before the Lord. Everyone that thirsts, come to the living waters: for Christ will sprinkle with water of renewal those who hasten to Him in faith, and He baptizes them with the Spirit unto life that grows not old.” O my soul, magnify one of the Trinity who bowed His head and received baptism. “Wash you, make you clean,” says Isaiah. “Put away the evil of your doings from before the Lord. Everyone that thirsts, come to the living waters: for Christ will sprinkle with water of renewal those who hasten to Him in faith, and He baptizes them with the Spirit unto life that grows not old.” “O Prophet, come to Me: stretch out your hand and baptize Me swiftly.” Let us the faithful, keep ourselves safe through grace and through the seal of baptism. In the past the Hebrews fled destruction by marking the doors posts with blood; so also this divine washing unto regeneration shall be our Exodus, and going hence, we shall behold the light of the Trinity that never sets. “O Prophet, come to Me: stretch out your hand and baptize Me swiftly.” Let us the faithful, keep ourselves safe through grace and through the seal of baptism. In the past the Hebrews fled destruction by marking the doors posts with blood; so also this divine washing unto regeneration shall be our Exodus, and going hence, we shall behold the light of the Trinity that never sets. Today the Master bows His head beneath the hand of the Forerunner. Irmos O most pure Bride, O blessed Mother, the wonders of your birth-giving pass all understanding. Through you we have obtained salvation in all things, and, as is right and meet, we rejoice before you our Benefactor, bearing as gift a song of thanksgiving. Today John baptizes the Master in the streams of the Jordan. O most pure Bride, O blessed Mother, the wonders of your birth-giving pass all understanding. Through you we have obtained salvation in all things, and, as is right and meet, we rejoice before you our Benefactor, bearing as gift a song of thanksgiving. Today the Master buries in the waters the sin of mortal man. Today the Master receives testimony from on high that He is the beloved Son. That which was revealed to Moses in the bush we see accomplished here in a strange manner. The Virgin bore Fire within her, yet was not consumed when she gave birth to the Benefactor who brings us light, and the streams of the Jordan suffered no harm when they received Him. Today the Master has come to sanctify the nature of the waters. Today the Master receives baptism at the hand of the Forerunner. That which was revealed to Moses in the bush we see accomplished here in a strange manner. The Virgin bore Fire within her, yet was not consumed when she gave birth to the Benefactor who brings us light, and the streams of the Jordan suffered no harm when they received Him. O my soul magnify the power of the undivided Godhead in three Persons. O King without beginning, through the communion of the Spirit, you anoint and make perfect the nature of mankind. You have cleansed it in the undefiled streams, putting to shame the arrogant force of darkness, and now You translate it unto endless life. O my soul, magnify her that has delivered us from the curse. O King without beginning, through the communion of the Spirit, you anoint and make perfect the nature of mankind. You have cleansed it in the undefiled streams, putting to shame the arrogant force of darkness, and now You translate it unto endless life. O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honour than the hosts on high Katavasia Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is your due, O Mother of God. Even a spirit from above is filled with dizziness when seeking to sing your praises. But since you are good accept our faith, for you know well our love inspired by God. For it is you who protect all Christians; therefore, we magnify you. Today the Master bows His head beneath the hand of the Forerunner. Katavasia O most pure Bride, O blessed Mother, the wonders of your birth-giving pass all understanding. Through you we have obtained salvation in all things, and, as is right and meet, we rejoice before you our Benefactor, bearing as gift a song of thanksgiving. Small Litany Exapostilarion, Tone 3 The Saviour, who is grace and truth,* has appeared in the streams of the Jordan,* and enlightened those that sleep in darkness and shadow.* For the Light that no man can approach* has come and is made manifest. (3) At the Praises, Tone 1 Light from Light, Christ our God has shone upon the world,* God made manifest:* O peoples, let us worship Him. Light from Light, Christ our God has shone upon the world,* God made manifest:* O peoples, let us worship Him. O Christ our Master, how shall we Your servants* give You worthy honour?* For You have renewed us all in the waters. You, O our Saviour, were baptized in the Jordan* and have sanctified the waters:* accepting a servant’s hand upon Your head,* You heal the passions of the world.* Great is the mystery of Your dispensation.* O Lord who loves mankind, glory to You. The true Light has appeared and bestows enlightenment on all.* Christ who is above all purity is baptized with us;* He brings sanctification to the water* and it becomes a cleansing for our souls.* That which is outward and visible is earthly,* that which is inwardly understood is higher than heaven.* Salvation comes through washing,* and through water the Spirit:* by descending into the water we ascend to God.* Wonderful are Your works, O Lord, glory to You. He who covers the heaven with clouds* is Himself covered today by the streams of the Jordan;* and He who takes away the sin of the world is cleansed,* that I may be made clean.* The Only-begotten Son of the Most High Father* receives from above the testimony of the consubstantial Spirit.* Unto Him let us cry aloud:* O Christ our God who made Yourself manifest and saved us,* glory to You. Tone 6, Glory… O Saviour who clothe Yourself with light as with a garment,* You have clothed Yourself in the waters of the Jordan;* and You who have measured heaven with a span,* have bowed Your head before the Forerunner,* so that You might turn the world back from error* and save our souls. Now… Today Christ has come to be baptized in the Jordan;* today John touches the head of the Master.* the powers of heaven are amazed* as they behold the marvellous mystery.* The sea saw it and fled;* the Jordan at the sight was driven back.* And we who have been enlightened cry aloud:* Glory to God made manifest,* who has appeared upon earth and brought light to the world. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING 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 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 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 “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):

Jan 5, 2025 - Sunday before and Eve of Theophany; Octoechos Tone 8; The Holy Martyrs Theopemptus and Theonas; The Venerable Syncletica.

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 5, 2025 Strict Fast. Abstention from meat and eggs (and, traditionally, dairy) and foods that contain these ingredients. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading “Blessed is the man...” is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 8 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. 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. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Rejoice, O holy Sion,* the Mother of Churches and the dwelling-place of God;* for you were the first to receive the forgiveness of sins* through the resurrection. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Christ the Word was begotten by God the Father before all ages;* yet in these latter times,* He freely willed to take flesh from the Virgin who did not know man.* By His death on the cross and His resurrection,* He saved mankind from the ancient curse of death. Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let us hymn the wise Theonas and Theopemptus* for, submitting to the dogmas of Christ,* and having splendidly set at nought all ungodly worship,* they worshiped the one Lord and God* in holiness, honour and goodly hope,* confessing Him right boldly before the tyrants;* and they have been crowned from on high. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Having forsaken as fleeting those things of life which drag men downwards,* delight in food and glory which fades like a flower, O most lauded ones,* you cleaved unto Christ, enkindled by His comely beauty,* and you offered yourselves to Him as sweet-smelling roses,* and have been divinely crowned with the diadem of the incorrupt kingdom. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Having hated the world you have been shown to transcend the world,* and have joined the Church of the firstborn;* and with the angels you chant incorrupt hymnody, standing together before God.* And having rejected the vile falsehood of idolatry,* as martyrs you have put to shame the mindlessness of the tyrants. 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. Having truly desired the glory of the fathers, you loved incorrupt glory;* wherefore, forsaking that which is sweet,* you gave your body over to all manner of pain.* And, reigning with Christ, you now receive the reward of your pangs. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. He Who permitted the devil when he asked to tempt Job,* desiring to try you like gold,* left thy body to the violence of the evil one;* but having put the tempter to shame by the patient endurance of infirmities,* you have been crowned with a wreath of victory. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Yearning for the comely beauty of Christ the Bridegroom,* and desiring to wed yourself to Him by all manner of good works,* you adorned yourself with the pangs of abstinence;* wherefore, you now reign with Him in His bridal-chamber. Tone 4, Glory… Make ready, O River Jordan!* For, lo! Christ God comes to be baptized by John,* that in your waters He might crush the heads of the invisible serpents by His divinity!* Rejoice, O desert of Jordan!* You mountains, leap up with gladness;* for our eternal Life comes to restore Adam!* O forerunner John, you are the voice of one crying in the wilderness:* “Prepare the ways of the Lord and make straight His paths!” 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. 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 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. Tone 6, Glory… Now… Let the desert of Jordan rejoice, and let it blossom like a lily;* for therein has been heard the voice of one crying in the wilderness:* “Prepare the way of the Lord!"* For He Who set forth the mountains with a measure* and the forested places with His scales,* Who as God fills all things, is baptized by a servant,* granting rich gifts at the beginning of His impoverishment.* Eve once heard: “In pain you shall give birth to children;”* but now the Virgin has heard:* “Rejoice, O you who are full of grace! The Lord is with you,* Who has great mercy!” Troparia Tone 8 You came down from on high, O Merciful One,* and accepted three days of burial* to free us from our sufferings.* O Lord, our life and our resurrection,* glory be to You. Tone 4, Glory... After Elijah had gone up to heaven,* Elisha threw his mantle in the Jordan River which parted,* opening a way, a dry path between two walls of water, where he could pass,* a true symbol of our baptism by which we pass through this fleeting life.* Christ has been seen at the Jordan River* to sanctify the waters. Tone 4, Now... Make ready, O Zebulon,* and prepare yourself, O Nephtali;* O river Jordan, stop and receive with joy* the Master coming to be baptized.* O Adam, rejoice with the first mother, Eve,* and do not hide yourselves as before in paradise.* For having seen you unclothed* Christ has appeared to clothe you with the first robe:* He has appeared to renew all creation. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 8 Troparia, Tone 8 You came down from on high, O Merciful One,* and accepted three days of burial* to free us from our sufferings.* O Lord, our life and our resurrection,* glory be to You. (2) Tone 4, Glory... After Elijah had gone up to heaven,* Elisha threw his mantle in the Jordan River which parted,* opening a way, a dry path between two walls of water, where he could pass,* a true symbol of our baptism by which we pass through this fleeting life.* Christ has been seen at the Jordan River* to sanctify the waters. Tone 4, Now... Make ready, O Zebulon,* and prepare yourself, O Nephtali;* O river Jordan, stop and receive with joy* the Master coming to be baptized.* O Adam, rejoice with the first mother, Eve,* and do not hide yourselves as before in paradise.* For having seen you unclothed* Christ has appeared to clothe you with the first robe:* He has appeared to renew all creation. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 8 You the Life of all, did rise from the dead,* and an Angel of light cried out to the women saying:* Cease your tears. Bring the good tidings unto the Apostles.* Cry aloud in hymns that Christ the Lord has arisen* who as God was well-pleased to save mankind. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. When You were indeed risen from the tomb* You commanded the holy women to announce the Resurrection to the Apostles, as it is written;* and Peter, having arrived quickly, stood by the grave* and seeing the light in the tomb was frightened,* observing the grave clothes lying therein, without the divine body,* and believing he cried aloud:* Glory be to You O Christ God our Saviour, who has saved us all,* for You are the radiant splendour of the Father. Glory… Now… Let us hymn the heavenly gate and ark,* the all-holy mountain, the cloud of light, the heavenly ladder,* the spiritual Paradise, the redemption of Eve,* the great treasure of the world;* because salvation for the world and forgiveness of ancient offences were wrought in her.* Therefore, we cry to her:* Intercede with your own Son and God to grant forgiveness of offences* to those who devoutly worship your most holy Offspring. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 8 Mortals have sealed Your tomb, O Saviour* and an Angel has rolled away the stone from the door.* Women saw You risen from the dead,* and announced the good tidings to Your Disciples in Sion:* The life of all has risen and the bonds of death are loosed.* O Lord, glory be to You. I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. The women having brought sweet-smelling burial spices* heard an Angel’s voice coming from the tomb:* Cease your tears and bring joy instead of sorrow.* Wherefore cry aloud in hymns that Christ the Lord is risen,* who as God was well-pleased to save the race of mankind. Glory… Now… In you, O Full of grace, does all creation rejoice,* the ranks of Angels and the race of mankind;* O all-hallowed Temple and spiritual Paradise, boast of Virgins.* For from youGod became incarnate* and He who is our God before the ages became a child.* He has made your womb a throne and rendered it wider than the heavens.* In you, O Full of grace, does all creation rejoice;* glory be to you. Evlogitaria Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 1 Be glad, O River Jordan!* For to you does the Creator come of His own will,* to receive baptism from a servant, in that He is compassionate.* Adorn yourself and dance, O Adam, and Eve our first mother!* The all-good God has come, the deliverance of all! Glory… Now… The Master, as the Torrent of delight,* comes forth to be baptized in the river’s streams,* desiring to fill me with purity through the waters;* and John, beholding Him, cried aloud:* “How can I stretch forth my hand to touch the head of You* before whom all things tremble?” Hypakoe, Tone 8 The myrrh-bearing women standing at the tomb of the Giver of life* seeking the immortal Master among the dead;* and having received the glad tidings of joy from the Angel* announced to the Apostles that Christ the Lord is risen,* granting the world great mercy. Hymn of Ascent, Tone 8 Antiphon 1 From my youth the enemy tempts me, enflaming me with the desire for pleasures;* but placing my trust in You O Lord, I put him to flight. Let those that hate Sion,* become like grass before it is tilled;* for Christ severs their necks with the sharp blade of torments. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit all things have life;* Light from Light, eminent God:* we hymn Him* together with the Father and the Word. Antiphon 2 Let my humble heart be sheltered by the fear of You;* lest it fall away from You by being conceited,* O exceedingly compassionate One. He who has his hope in the Lord* will not be afraid when the Lord judges all things* with fire and torment. Glory… Now… Everyone inspired by the Holy Spirit sees all and foretells,* working the greatest wonders, singing of one God in three Hypostases;* for though the Divinity radiates with triune light,* it rules as one. Antiphon 3 I have cried to You, O Lord, hearken to me,* bend Your ear to my supplications when I cry to You,* and cleanse me before taking me from this life. Each and every one who returns to mother earth* will depart to receive torments or rewards* in reward for their life’s actions. Glory… Now… Contemplation of God by the Holy Spirit is of a thrice-holy unity;* for the Father is beginningless, from Whom the Son was begotten before time,* and the Spirit equal in essence and majesty,* blazes forth equally from the Father. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 The Lord will reign forever, Sion’s God, from age to age. verse: My soul, give praise to the Lord; I will praise the Lord all my days. Let everything that lives, Tone 8 Gospel John 21:15-25 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 8 Ode 1 Irmos: When the wonder-working rod of Moses* smote the sea with the sign of the cross and divided it,* Pharaoh the charioteer it overthrew in the deep,* but fugitive Israel, fleeing on foot, it saved,* and he raised a glad shout* of praise to God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. How should we not wonder at the mighty power of Christ’s divinity? Freedom from passions and incorruption to all the faithful flow from his Passion; drop by drop from his holy side a deathless fountain falls; and from the grave comes life unending. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. How beautiful the angel now reveals himself to the women! Bearing the signs of innate and immaterial purity, and in his far-shining form revealing the splendour of the resurrection, he cries: the Lord is risen. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Glorious things are spoken of you, O Virgin Mother of God, from generation to generation, for, remaining undefiled, you found room in your womb for God the Word. Therefore, we honour you as our protector after God. Irmos: Delivered from bitter slavery, Israel traversed the impassable as though it were dry land;* and seeing the enemy drowned, it chanted to God* as to its Redeemer who works wonders with His upraised arm,* for He has been glorified. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Christ comes to baptism! Christ arrives at the Jordan! Christ now buries our sins in the water, in that He is good! With gladness let us chant to Him, for He has been glorified. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Let the clouds, rejoicing, let great gladness fall! Jesus Christ comes forth to drown the torrents of men’s sin in the waters of the Jordan, granting enlightenment to all. Glory… Now… Behold, the Light is revealed! Behold, purification is shown forth! Lo! the Saviour stands forth to shine rays of His divine splendour upon those in darkness! Let us joyfully embrace Him with pure thoughts. Katavasia: The Lord mighty in battle uncovered the foundation of the deep* and led His servants on dry ground;* but He covered their adversaries with the waters,* for He has been glorified. Ode 3 Irmos: In the beginning, O Christ, you established the heavens in understanding,* and founded the earth upon the waters:* establish me upon the rock of your commandments,* for none is holy but you, only Lover of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The saving suffering of your flesh, O Christ, justified Adam, condemned by the taste of sin; for as the sinless one you were shown in the trial as owing no debt to death. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Jesus , my God, shed the light of his resurrection upon those sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death; and by his divinity he bound the strong man and seized all his goods. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Higher than Cherubim and Seraphim you are declared to be, Mother of God, for you alone, undefiled, received within your womb the illimitable God. Therefore, all the faithful ever sing to you and bless you. Irmos: Let no mortal boast in his wisdom or wealth,* but rather in his faith in the Lord,* crying out to Christ God in the orthodox manner, and ever chanting:* Establish me upon the rock of Your commandments, O Master! Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Christ, who has been seated with the Father and the Spirit from before time began, and who became incarnate of the Virgin in latter times, comes to baptism, granting immortality to all through the divine font, as He knows. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Desiring, in the loving-kindness of His mercy, to bury our sins with water in the Jordan’s streams, Christ God comes forth and by baptism restores us who have become corrupt. Glory… Now… Covering the shameful nakedness of our first father Adam, You have voluntarily stripped Yourself naked, O Christ, and You cover Yourself in the streams of the Jordan, O You who alone are greatly merciful, and who cover Your chambers with waters. Katavasia: The Lord who grants strength to our kings,* and exalts the horn of His anointed,* is born of a Virgin and comes to baptism.* Therefore let us, the faithful, cry aloud:* None is holy as our God* and none is righteous save You, O Lord. Kontakion of the Forefeast, Tone 2 O most compassionate Christ who absolves our sins in the depth of Your mercy,* You came to be baptized with the water of the Jordan.* You robed me in splendor, replacing my ancient garment of evil. Ode 4 Irmos: O Lord, you are my strength and my might, you are my God and my joy;* without leaving the deep recesses of the Father, you visited our poverty;* so with Habakkuk the prophet, I cry to you:* Glory to your power, O Lover of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Merciful Saviour, you loved me much when I was at enmity with you; in strange self-emptying you came to earth, not rejecting the last recesses of my pride. While remaining still upon the heights of your ineffable glory, you glorified me, formerly so disgraced. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Who is not amazed, O Lord, at seeing death done away through sufferings, corruption take flight through a cross, Hell emptied of its possessions through a death? This is the marvellous work of the divine sovereignty of you, the Crucified One, O Lover of man. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Boast of the faithful, Bride unwed, you are the protection and refuge of Christians, city wall and harbour; for you bring our petitions to your Son and save from danger those who acknowledge you in faith and love as the pure Mother of God. Irmos: Of old, O Christ, Habbakuk heard wondrous report of You, and cried out in fear:* God shall come forth from Teman,* the Holy One out of the mountain overshadowed and densely wooded, to save His anointed ones!* Glory to Your power, O Lord! Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Draw forth the water of life! For, lo! the River of peace truly comes to dry up the turbulent waters of unbelief and to pour forth enlightenment upon those who sing to Him: Glory to Your power, O Lord! Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Be glad, O human nature, desert which before was arid with thirst! The Torrent of delight has now appeared, freeing all from the burning heat of sin with the waters of the Jordan. We chant to Him with faith: Glory to Your power, O Lord! Glory… Now… The voice of one crying forth in prophecy thundered forth to barren minds, saying: “Prepare straight ways for Christ who comes, that He might through baptism purify us who have grown old, releasing us from our primal condemnation!” Katavasia: He whom You have called, O Lord, ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness,’* heard Your voice when You had thundered upon many waters, bearing witness to Your Son.* Wholly filled with the Spirit that had come, he cried aloud:* ‘You are Christ, the wisdom and the power of God.’ Ode 5 Irmos: Why have you thrust me away from the never-setting light of your face,* so that alien darkness has covered me, most wretched one?* Turn me back, I beg you, and direct my ways* to the light of your commandments. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Before your Passion, O Saviour, you allowed yourself to be clothed in the robe of mockery, thus covering the shameful nakedness of man; and to be nailed naked to the cross while putting off the garment of death. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. When you arose from the dust of death, O Christ, you built again my beggared nature and rendered it immortal, revealing once again the kingly image, radiant with the light of incorruption. Most holy Theotokos, save us! As you possess a mother’s boldness before your Son, All-pure, do not refuse your far-seeing care for our race, we pray you. For you alone, as Christians, we present to the Lord for gracious favour and propitiation. Irmos: Shine forth Your never-waning light* upon the hearts of those who hymn You with faith, O Christ,* granting us the peace which passes understanding;* and fleeing from the night of ignorance to the day,* guided by Your light, O You who loves mankind,* we will glorify You. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! As King of peace, You have broken down the middle-wall of enmity, appearing to those on earth in the guise of the flesh; beholding Your arrival, John marvelled in fear when he was commanded to place his hand upon You. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Hastening, Christ comes now to crush the heads of the serpents in the waters, and cries out to the trembling Baptist: “Stretch forth your hand, and touch my head, and shake off your awe, doing that which you are commanded!” Glory… Now… The prophet once uttered the grace of baptism in the divine Spirit, striking the streams of the Jordan with his mantle; and they have parted, making for us a path to the divine regeneration of Christ who has appeared therein. Katavasia: Jesus, the Prince of Life,* has come to set loose from condemnation Adam the first-formed man;* and though as God He needs no cleansing,* yet for the sake of fallen man He is cleansed in the Jordan.* In its streams He slew the enmity* and bestows the peace that passes all understanding. Ode 6 Irmos: Be merciful to me, O Saviour, for many are my transgressions;* bring me up from the depths of evil, I pray you.* For I have cried out to you,* hear me, O God of my salvation. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Mightily, through a tree, the originating evil overthrew me; uplifted on the cross, O Christ, you cast him down with a greater might, putting him to shame and raising me, the fallen. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Rising from the tomb in compassion you took pity on Zion, by your divine blood bringing about the new in place of the old; and now you reign in her, O Christ, throughout the ages. Most holy Theotokos, saves us! May we be rescued from all our grievous stumblings by your prayers, pure Mother of God, and may we meet with the divine outshining of the Son of God, ineffably made flesh of you. Irmos: I am wholly stuck fast in boundless passions,* and have fallen into the sea-monster of evil;* yet lead me up from corruption, as You did Jonah, O God,* and grant me dispassion through faith, *that I may sacrifice to You in a voice of praise* and with the spirit of salvation. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Showing forth the loving-kindness of His compassions, the immutable Christ comes to a servant in the guise of a servant, asking baptism, and rescuing mankind from slavery; and marvelling at His coming, the forerunner stood in awe, held fast by fear. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! How can the river’s streams receive You, the unbearable Fire who now comes forth? How can the angels of heaven look upon Your nakedness? How can the hand of John stretch forth to touch You, O all-unoriginate Word of God, who created him on earth? Glory… Now… Fleeing, the sea is parted, disclosing for the new people a divine path which He who all-gloriously poured forth water from the rock, having come in the flesh, has made in the midst of the river. Let us glorify as God Him who has built up anew our ruination. Katavasia: The Voice of the Word, the Candlestick of the Light, the Morning Star and Forerunner of the Sun,* cried in the wilderness to all the peoples:* ‘Repent and be cleansed while there is yet time.* For lo, Christ is at hand,* Who delivers the world from corruption.’ Kontakion, Tone 6 When You rose from the tomb,* You also raised the dead and resurrected Adam.* Eve exults in Your resurrection,* and the ends of the world celebrate Your rising from the dead,* O most merciful One. Ikos My Saviour, long-suffering, Giver of life, you harrowed the kingdom of Hell and raised the dead; you met the women bringing the myrrh and for sorrow gave them joy; to the apostles you made known the signs of victory, and you shone upon your creation, O Lover of man. The whole world therefore rejoices together in your rising from the dead, O you of many mercies. Ode 7 Irmos: The fire in Babylon once was put to shame by the descent of God* and the young men danced in the furnace,* with joy in their steps, as in a grassy meadow,* and sang: Blessed are you, the God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your glorious abasement and the divine wealth of your beggary, O Christ, struck the angels with amazement when they saw you nailed to the cross to save those who cry in faith to you: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. By your divine descent the lowest depths were filled with light, and the darkness and torment of former ages driven away. Then those in age-old bonds rose up and cried: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Most holy Theotokos, save us! In accordance with orthodox doctrine, we proclaim you Lord of all, only Father of the one, only-begotten Son, and we know the one true Spirit proceeding from you, one with you in nature and co-eternal. Irmos: The children who once, for the sake of piety,* passed through the unbearable flame of the furnace as though it were a bridal-chamber,* have been manifestly shown forth as holy, and, chanting together, they sang the hymn:* O God of our fathers, blessed are You! Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Christ has revealed Himself as our salvation, granting us enlightenment. Let heaven rejoice, and let the clouds truly drop down righteousness upon those who cry: O God of our fathers, blessed are You! Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! The fleece which Gideon foresaw, the full cup of water drawn forth therefrom, manifestly foretold Your baptism, O Christ, which, having undergone it, You give to those who chant: O God of our fathers, blessed are You! Glory… Now… Elisha, in healing the barren and brackish waters, prefigured the fruitfulness of the precious font which would mystically come upon those who chant: O God of our fathers, blessed are You! Katavasia: The breath of the wind heavy with dew* and the descent of the angel of God preserved the Holy Children from all harm,* as they walked in the fiery furnace.* Refreshed with dew in the flames,* they sang in thanksgiving:* ‘Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our fathers.’ Ode 8 Irmos: The Chaldaean tyrant in fury kindled the furnace sevenfold for those who feared God;* then, as he beheld them saved alive by a mightier power than his, their Creator and Redeemer himself,* he cried: Bless him, young men, praise him, O priests,* highly exalt him, O people, throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The power supremely divine of the Godhead of Jesus has shone out in these things: on the cross he tasted death in the flesh for all men, and he brought to nothing the might of Hell. Bless him without ceasing, young men, praise him, O priests, highly exalt him, O people, throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The crucified one arose, the boastful and vainglorious fell, the fallen and the broken are restored, corruption is banished, incorruption has blossomed, for death is swallowed up by life. Bless him, young men, praise him, O priests, highly exalt him, O people, throughout all the ages. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Godhead of threefold light, in single radiance shining from one three-personed nature, Begetter without beginning, Word of the Father’s nature and Spirit consubstantial, co-reigning: bless him, young men, praise him, O priests, exalt him, O people, throughout all the ages. Irmos: Of old, the furnace of fire and dew presented an image of supernatural wonder:* for the fire did not consume the young children,* prefiguring the seedless and divine nativity of Christ from the Virgin.* Wherefore, in hymnody let us chant:* Let all creation bless the Lord* and exalt Him supremely for all ages! Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! With a loud voice let us send up praise to the Master. He has arrived! He has appeared! He who clothes the sky with clouds comes up to the waters and strips Himself naked. And He is baptized, cleansing us who chant: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages! Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Come and let us noetically go to the Jordan; and let us behold therein a great sight: for Jesus our enlightenment comes and bows His head beneath the hand of a servant, who cries out with trembling: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages! Glory… Now… Burning in the waters of the Jordan, the glowing Ember which Isaiah foresaw, has consumed all the tinder of sin and has granted restoration to the ruined. Chanting, let us sing: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages! We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The Babylonian furnace, as it poured forth dew,* foreshadowed a marvellous mystery:* how the Jordan should receive in its streams the immaterial fire,* and should encompass the Creator,* when He was baptized in the flesh.* Him do you peoples bless and exalt above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: Heaven is amazed and the ends of the earth stricken with fear* that your womb is become wider than the heavens, and God is seen bodily by men.* Therefore, O Mother of God* the ranks of angels and of men magnify you. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Word of God, simple in your nature divine and unoriginate, by giving existence to flesh and assuming it to yourself you became compound: suffering as a man you remained beyond suffering as God. Therefore, we magnify you in the two natures, indivisible and yet without confusion. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Most High, according to the divine essence you are ever one with God as your Father; but when you took the nature of man, coming down to your servants and rising from the tomb, you made him, who is by nature God and Lord, by grace Father of those born of the earth. You with him we magnify. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O Virgin Mother of God, you are seen beyond nature bearing in the body that good Word which the Father as the One Good uttered from his heart before all ages. And we understand him now as being beyond the body, yet clothed with a body Irmos: Ineffable is the mystery of the Virgin:* for she is heaven and the throne of the cherubim,* and has been shown to be the radiant bridal-chamber of Christ God Almighty.* And we piously magnify her as the Theotokos. Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! An awesome and all-glorious mystery do I behold! Jesus comes of His own will to the River Jordan, crying out to John: “Grant Me the loan of your right hand, My friend, that it may perform awesome works for the preservation of My people.” Glory to Your holy Theophany, O Lord! Let the desert of the Jordan put forth flowers! O you who lie in darkness, a great Light has revealed Itself to you! Beholding It, leap up! Coming from Galilee, Christ desires to be baptized in the flesh by a servant! Glory… Now… Be glad now and dance, O Jordan! Leap up, O John! Rejoice, all the world! Lo! Christ has appeared: He strips Himself naked and is baptized, clothing mankind in the raiment of incorruption! Katavasia: Every tongue is at a loss to praise you as is due:* even a spirit from the world above is filled with dizziness,* when it seeks to sing your praises, O Theotokos.* But since you are good, accept our faith:* You know well our love inspired by God,* for you are the Protector of Christians and we magnify you. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light After His resurrection the Lord asked Peter three times:* Do you love Me?* Then the Lord set Peter as a shepherd over His sheep.* When Peter saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following Him,* he asked the Lord: What about him?* And the Lord said: If I want him to wait until I come again,* what is that to you, O Peter, my beloved? Glory… When the Jordan beheld you naked, with trembling it said to him who was born of the barren woman: “O John, you dare not baptize the Lord, who purifies all creation with fire and the Spirit! For He has come to sanctify mortals and the nature of water!” Now… He who in the flesh shone forth from the Virgin in Bethlehem now hastens to the Jordan, to wash away the defilement of mortals, leading to the light those who are in darkness, through divine baptism. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 8 O Lord, though You stood before the judgment seat* being judged by Pilate,* yet You were seated with the Father* and were not absent from Your throne.* And risen from the dead You freed the world from slavery to the stranger,* as You are full of compassionate pity and love for mankind. O Lord, the Jews laid You as a corpse in a grave,* and soldiers guarded You as a sleeping king* sealing You with a seal as if a treasury of life;* but You arose* and grant incorruption to our souls. O Lord, You have given us Your Cross as a weapon against the devil;* for he quakes and trembles, unable to contemplate Your power;* for raised the dead and abolished death:* wherefore we worship Your Burial and Your Rising. Your Angel, O Lord, having proclaimed Your Resurrection,* filled the guards with fear,* but he cried to the women saying: Why do you seek the living among the dead?* Being God He is risen* granting life to the whole world.’ Tone 6 Do you not comprehend the dispensation which I bring to pass for the salvation of all, O Baptist?* Forsake now the things of the past and ponder that which is profitable.* Believe on God who has come down,* and, having once refused, obey Me now;* for I who am God have come to cleanse Adam of the fall in My loving-kindness.* O Jesus who takes our sins upon Your shoulders. You have come to the streams of the Jordan,* and I am filled with fear at Your awesome coming.* How then do You command me to baptize You?* You have come Yourself to cleanse me:* how then do You, who are the purification of all, ask baptism of me? I am the unapproachable Word,* though I have clothed My nature in the guise of a servant* and have come to the Jordan.* Refuse Me not, but come here and fear not.* Draw nigh to Me, setting your right hand upon My head, crying:* O our blessed God who has appeared, glory be to You! O how far beyond understanding is Your infinite self-abasement* for the sake of me who am fallen, O Word of God!* I have recognized You who in Your lovingkindness clothed Yourself in Adam* and restores the descendants of Adam,* and, obedient to Your command, with faith I cry to You:* O our blessed God who has appeared, glory be to You! Tone 6, Glory… Serving the Master with trembling, John rejoices in soul and cries out with gladness:* “Rejoice with me, all you generations of our first father!* For our Hope has arrived!* Christ has come to the Jordan to wash away all the sin of Adam,* in that He is compassionate!” 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: You came down from on high, O Merciful One,* and accepted three days of burial* to free us from our sufferings.* O Lord, our life and our resurrection,* glory be to You. Troparion, Tone 4: After Elijah had gone up to heaven,* Elisha threw his mantle in the Jordan River which parted,* opening a way, a dry path between two walls of water, where he could pass,* a true symbol of our baptism by which we pass through this fleeting life.* Christ has been seen at the Jordan River* to sanctify the waters. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: O most compassionate Christ Who absolves our sins in the depth of your mercy,* you came to be baptized with the water of the Jordan.* You robed me in splendour* replacing my ancient garment of evil. 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) Epistle 2 Timothy 4:5-8 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) Gospel Mark 1:1-8 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 148:1):

Jan 4, 2025 - Saturday before Theophany; Synaxis of the Seventy Holy Apostles; Our Venerable Father Theoctistus, Hegumen of the Cucomo Monastery in Sicily.

Sat, 04 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 4, 2025 VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O faithful, with sacred hymns let us bless Cleopas, Andronicus, Silvanus and Agabus,* Ananias and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Rufus and Sosthenes,* Linus and Stachys, Stephen, Timon, Hermas, Phlegon,* Mark, Luke, Sosipater, Jason and Gaius, Tychicus and Philemon. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. As is meet, let Narcissus and Trophimus be praised,* with Caesanus, Zenas and Aristarchus,* Mark, Silas and Gaius, Quartus, Hermes and Asyncritus,* Apollos and Cephas, Clement and Justus,* Quartus, Erastus, Luke, Onesiphorus, Carpus,* Euodias, Matthias and James, Urban and Aristobulus,* Tychicus and Aristarchus. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Let us honour the honoured preachers of God:* Prudens, Herodion and Artemas,* Philologus, Olympas and Rodion, Apelles and Amplias,* Patrobus and Mark, Tertius and Thaddeus, the wondrous Epenetus,* Achaius, Aquila, Lucius, Barnabas and Fortunatus,* and glorious Apollos and Crispus. Tone 2 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. When you wounded your soul with divine desire, O most blessed one,* rejoicing you took up your cross and followed after Christ;* and having mortified the wisdom of the flesh through abstinence,* you received the living activity of the Spirit,* enabling you to banish the winter of infirmities with the fervour of thy right acceptable prayers.* Together we bless you. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. When you cleansed the sight of your soul through earnest prayers and most steadfast fasting, O father,* you became a temple of the three-sunned Godhead;* and. receiving the divine anointing of the priesthood of God* you entered within the inaccessible, offering up in sacrifice Him that was slain for your sake,* for the sake of an ineffable companionship. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Manifest as meek and guileless, O father Theoctistus,* in wholeness of character you truly inherited the land of the meek;* and deified through communion with God, you delighted in the sustenance of true joy and gladness.* Do not cease to remember us here that ardently honour you* and celebrate your godly repose. Tone 3, Glory… Now… Splendid has the past feast been, and most glorious is the present day,* for thereon did the magi do homage to the Saviour,* and hereon a glorious servant has baptized the Master.* Then piping shepherds, beholding the Lord, marvelled;* and now the voice of the Father has proclaimed His only-begotten Son. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 8 “Why do You incline Your holy head* before me who am clay and shadow, O my Christ who are ineffable Fire,* before which the angelic hosts tremble?”* said John to his Creator, when He came to be baptized.* “Great is Your condescension, O compassionate Bestower of life!” I think of You from the country of Jordan and Mount Hermon. Lo! our enlightenment and deliverance and salvation* shall go forth into the Jordan openly to strip Himself naked* and to be clothed in the waters as in a robe,* thus clothing the nakedness of all who have been stripped naked* by the adverse counsel of the serpent. The waters saw You, O God; the waters saw You and trembled. He that is truly unbearable Fire shall go forth into the Jordan* to cleanse me who have been destroyed by the wicked violation.* In the midst of the waters shall He receive the rain of heaven* which washes away the stain of many transgressions,* in that He is compassionate and great in mercy. Tone 6, Glory… Now… Christ came to the Jordan truly to be baptized by John;* and he said to Him: “I have need to be baptized of You,* and You come to me?* I, a shadow, dare not come in contact with fire!* Sanctify me, O Master, by Your divine manifestation!” Troparia Tone 3 O holy apostles, intercede with the all-merciful God,* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. Tone 8, Glory… In you, O holy father Theoctistus, the faithful image of God shone forth,* for you carried your cross and followed Christ.* You taught by your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away;* and how to value the soul, for it is immortal.* Therefore, your soul is forever in happiness with the angels. Tone 4, Now… Make ready, O Zebulon, and prepare yourself, O Nephtali;* O river Jordan, stop and receive with joy the Master coming to be baptized.* O Adam, rejoice with the first mother, Eve,* and do not hide yourselves as before in paradise.* For having seen you unclothed Christ has appeared to clothe you with the first robe:* He has appeared to renew all creation. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: Apostles, prophets, martyrs,* bishops, venerable and righteous ones,* having finished the fight well and having kept the faith,* you now have free approach to the Saviour.* For our sake, we beseech you, entreat Him in His goodness to save our souls. Troparion, Tone 2: Remember Your servants, O Lord, because of Your goodness,* and forgive all the sins they committed in life,* for no one is sinless but You,* Who alone can give rest to the departed. Kontakion, Tone 8: To the souls of Your servants, O Christ,* grant rest among the saints,* where there is no pain, no sorrow, no mourning,* but only life without end. Kontakion, Tone 8: O Lord, Maker of nature,* the world offers You the godly martyrs as the first-fruits of nature.* By their supplications, through the Mother of God,* preserve Your Church and Your people in profound peace,* O most Merciful One. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you just. verse: Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. (Psalm 32:11,1) Prokeimenon, Tone 6 Their souls shall dwell amidst good things. (Psalm 25:13) Epistle 1 Timothy 3:14-4:5 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of all their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, but out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 34:18,20) verse: Blessed are they whom You have chosen and taken to Yourself, O Lord, and their memory be from generation to generation. (Psalm 65:5) Gospel Matthew 3:1-11 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous. (Psalm 33:1)* Blessed are they whom You have chosen and taken to Yourself, O Lord;* and their memory be from generation to generation. (Psalm 65:5)* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Jan 3, 2025 - The Holy Prophet Malachi; The Holy Martyr Gordius.

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 3, 2025 Pre-feast of Theophany. According to liturgical prescriptions, the Divine Liturgy is not celebrated today. The Royal Hours for Theophany are sung in the morning. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The feast of Christ’s birth has passed.* It shone more brightly than the sun!* The day of His manifestation is on its way.* That day will be even more radiant.* There the shepherds gave glory with the angels, worshipping God made Man;* here John’s right hand will touch the Master, as he cries out in fear:* Sanctify both me and the waters, only merciful One! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Make ready, river Jordan!* Behold, Christ God approaches to be baptized by John.* He will crush the heads of invisible dragons in your waters.* Rejoice, wilderness of Jordan!* Dance with gladness, mountains!* The eternal Life has come to recall Adam!* Voice crying in the wilderness, John the forerunner, cry:* Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Desert of Jordan, rejoice exceedingly! * Blossom as the lily!* A voice is heard within you: * Prepare the way of the Lord!* He who weighs the mountains in scales* and the wooded valleys in a balance,* who fills all things in His divinity,* approaches to be baptized by a servant.* The Giver of riches has become poor!* Eve was told in days of old:* You shall bring forth children in pain,* but now the Virgin hears:* Rejoice, full of grace, the Lord who has great mercy is with you! Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Seeing that the words of your tongue are now fully realized,* I admire the truth and bless you, O Prophet.* You are truly to be admired;* for you enlightened the world by your splendorous voice,* announcing beforehand the redemptive coming of the Lord. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You lived on earth as if your were an angel.* Likewise, you were enriched with a name signifying an angel.* You joined spiritual goodness to physical goodness,* O all-blessed Prophet, Malachi. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O Lord, I offer Your prophet to You* as an intercessor and suppliant.* Through his pleas and prayers, O generous One,* remit the sins of a hopeless soul;* for You are compassionate and kind by essence and nature. Tone 8, Glory… Now… How glorious is the marvel!* He who baptizes by fire and the Spirit is coming to the Jordan,* neither as God alone nor mere man, but in two natures;* the one, the same, and the only-begotten Son.* In His humanity He seeks baptism from a mortal,* and in His divinity He takes away the sin of the world* and grants great mercy to all. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 6 Behold the illumination of the faithful.* Behold the One who obtains pardon for us.* Christ our God desires to enter into the currents of the river* so that He may wash away the stain of our wickedness* and renew for us our broken nature. I think of You from the country of Jordan and Mount Hermon. O Lord, when Your Forerunner saw You coming to him* and asking to be baptized,* he cried out with fear:* My God and my Creator,* how is it that I baptize You,* the only-sinless One? The waters saw You, O God; the waters saw You and trembled. O faithful, let us come together in spirit* at the currents of the Jordan* so that we may clearly see the great miracle;* for the Creator of all has manifested Himself* and has come to be baptized. Tone 5, Glory… Now… Christ our God is coming to the Jordan River to be baptized.* He desires to cleanse us of our sins by His Theophany,* for He alone is gracious and the Lover of mankind. Troparia Tone 2 O divinely inspired Malachi, you announced the coming of Christ,* and you spoke of His dominance over the Law.* How clearly you informed us:* The Lord is surely coming; seek Him in the temple with joy.* Beg Him now to save our souls. Tone 4, Glory… O Lord our God, Your holy martyr Gordius,* has deserved the crown of immortality* on account of his good fight.* Armed with Your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors* and crushed Satan's dreadful might.* Through his supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Tone 4, Now… Make ready, O Zabulon,* and prepare yourself, O Nephtali;* O river Jordan, stop and receive with joy* the Master coming to be baptized.* O Adam, rejoice with the first mother, Eve,* and do not hide yourselves as before in paradise.* For having seen you unclothed* Christ has appeared to clothe you with the first robe:* He has appeared to renew all creation.:

Jan 2, 2025 - Our Holy Father Sylvester, Pope of Rome.

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 2, 2025 Pre-feast of Theophany. VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let us piously sing the prefestive hymns* of the honourable baptism of our God.* Behold, He desires to come in the flesh to His own Forerunner,* and to ask for the baptism of salvation* for the re-creation of those who are enlightened through the faith* and who are partakers of the Spirit. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Christ is revealed and God appears, as it is written;* He comes to His servant to be baptized.* O River Jordan, O land and sea, O mountains and hills,* be filled with happiness;* O hearts of the faithful,* joyfully celebrate and receive the great Light. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O all-powerful Lord,* how will the streams of the river receive You?* As it is written, You are the river and the stream of peace;* how will You enter the stream without a garment?* For You are the One who covers the heavens with clouds;* You are the One who stripped away all evil of the enemy* and who clothed the human race with immortality. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O holy Father Sylvester, bishop of God,* through the light of the priesthood you were enlightened.* You have illumined the faithful through your clear teachings* in order to honour the dwelling of the three Persons in one nature;* you also cast away the darkness of heresies.* For this reason, we rejoice today* and gloriously celebrate your light-bearing memory. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O holy Father Sylvester, bearer of God,* you revealed yourself to be a pillar of fire.* You convoked a sacred council and were the cloud which gives shade.* You led the faithful away from the Egyptian heresy* and always brought them to the divine land by your true teaching.* Therefore, we venerate your blessed and all-holy memory. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O holy Father Sylvester, herald of God,* by the streams of your prayers you firmly silenced the many-faced serpent.* We are amazed at your priestly work.* You brought a multitude of pagans to God;* you quieted the harshness of the heretics;* you publicly performed great miracles before them.* Therefore, we venerate you and call you blessed. Tone 6, Glory… Now… Christ the Truth is coming to the Jordan* to be baptized by John,* and the Baptizer says to Him:* I should be baptized by You, but You are coming to me.* I do not dare to put straw to the fire.* O Master, sanctify me by your divine Theophany. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 1 Radiant was the feast that has just passed;* but more brilliant, O Saviour, is the one approaching.* The first had an angel as a herald;* this one has John the Forerunner.* The first had blood spilled and had Bethlehem lament as one who was childless;* the second has blessed waters recognized to be a bath having many children.* Before, the star proclaimed to the Magi;* now, the Father shows You to the world,* that You are incarnate and are openly coming again.* O Lord, glory to You! Tone 2 I think of You from the country of Jordan and Mount Hermon. Again Jesus cleanses himself in the Jordan.* Above all, He cleanses our sins* because He is coming to wash away the decree written against Adam.* The Lord says to John:* O Baptizer, come and serve the Fountainhead of the wondrous mystery.* Come, extend your hand quickly* and touch the head of Him who crushed the head of the serpent,* the One who opened up Paradise,* which, by the tasting of the fruit of the tree,* was closed through the guile of the serpent. Tone 3 The waters saw You, O God; the waters saw You and trembled. Resplendent is the feast which has passed;* but more glorious is the present day.* On that day the Magi adored the Saviour;* on this, the glorious servant baptizes the Master.* There, the shepherds sang in amazement;* here, the voice of the Father proclaims Him to be the Only-begotten Son. Tone 3, Glory… Now… O come all you faithful ones.* Leaving the regions of Judea, we shall cross the wilderness of the Jordan;* and today we shall see Him who revealed himself in the flesh for our sake.* In the streams of the Jordan,* He is asking the Forerunner for baptism.* John refuses and cries out in fear:* I do not dare to touch the divine Fire with my hand of clay.* The Jordan and the sea fled, O Saviour, and then returned.* And I, how shall I place a hand on your head which even the Seraphim fear?* The Jordan fled when Elisha received the mantle of Elijah;* how will it not go into the Abyss* and into the depths when it sees You unclothed in the stream?* How will the Jordan not burn me when I touch the fire?* The Jordan then cries out to John:* Why do you hesitate to baptize my Lord?* Why do you delay the purification of so many people?* He has already sanctified all creation.* Let me also be sanctified together with the nature of the waters.* For this reason, He has come into the world. Troparia Tone 4 The sincerity of your deeds has revealed you to your people* as a teacher of moderation,* a model of faith, and an example of virtue.* Therefore, you attained greatness through humility,* and wealth through poverty.* O Father and Archbishop Sylvester,* ask Christ our God to save our souls. Glory… Now… Make ready, O Zabulon,* and prepare yourself, O Nephtali;* O River Jordan, stop and receive with joy* the Master coming to be baptized.* O Adam, rejoice with the first mother, Eve,* and do not hide yourselves as before in Paradise.* For, having seen you unclothed,* Christ has appeared to clothe you with the first robe;* He has appeared to renew all creation. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Make ready, O Zebulon,* and prepare yourself, O Nephtali;* O river Jordan, stop and receive with joy* the Master coming to be baptized.* O Adam, rejoice with the first mother, Eve,* and do not hide yourselves as before in paradise.* For having seen you unclothed* Christ has appeared to clothe you with the first robe:* He has appeared to renew all creation. 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 the Lord stood in Jordan’s current telling John:* Do not be afraid to baptize Me,* for I have come to save Adam, the first man. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart understanding. verse: Hear these things, all you nations; give ear all you inhabitants of the world. (Psalm 28:4,2) Epistle Titus 1:5-2:1 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: The mouth of the just man shall meditate wisdom and his tongue shall speak judgment. verse: The law of his God is in his heart, and his steps will not falter. (Psalm 36:30,31) Gospel Luke 20:9-18 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Jan 1, 2025 - 🕀 The Circumcision of our Lord, God and Saviour Jesus Christ; Our Father Among the Saints Basil the Great, Archbishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia.

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Jan 1, 2025 Feast of our Lord. A day when the faithful are highly encouraged to participate in the Divine Liturgy. GREAT VESPERS WITH LYTIA ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 8 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! 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! Let Your 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! If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. 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! 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! Tone 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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! Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Readings (1) Genesis 17:1-14; (2) Proverbs 8:22-30; (3) Proverbs 10:31-11:12 Lytia 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. 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. 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 Tone 1 You were like a divine and noble bee of the Church of Christ, all-blessed Basil.* When you armed yourself with the sting of divine love,* you wounded the blasphemers of God-transgressing heresies,* and you stored up the sweetness of true worship in the souls of believers.* Now that you have attained the delights of the divine presence,* remember us before the consubstantial Trinity. My lips will speak words of wisdom; my heart is full of insight. You have acquired the virtues of all the saints, O Father Basil:* the meekness of Moses and the zeal of Elijah,* the confession of faith by Peter,* and the eloquence in theology of John.* Like Paul, you never cease to cry aloud:* Who is weak and I am not weak?* Who is offended and I burn not?* Therefore, because you dwell with them,* pray for the salvation of our souls. Tone 2 The mouth of the just utters wisdom, and his lips speak what is right. O Basil, the revealer of holiness,* having studied the nature of creatures* and contemplated the instability of all things,* you found the only One Who is unchangeable,* the transcendent Creator of all the world.* And having clung to Him, you cast off the desire of transient things.* Therefore, intercede for us* that we may also obtain the divine love. 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. Tone 8, Now… 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 holds all things in Your hands* and yet were wrapped in swaddling clothes,* glory to You! Troparia 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. (2) 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. FESTAL MATINS ON WEDNESDAY MORNING The Lord is God, Tone 1 Troparia, 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. (2) Glory… 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. Now… 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. Psalm Reading & Small Litany Sessional Hymn I Tone 5 Let us all praise Basil as the royal adornment of the Church,* an inexhaustible treasury of doctrines,* for thereby he has taught us to worship the Holy Trinity,* which is united in essence* but distinguished as to hypostasis. Tone 1 Glory... O all-wise Basil, as you stand before the Trinity,* pray that we who hymn you and honour your memory* may receive grace, mercy, and the washing away of our transgressions on the day of judgment,* that with mouth and heart we may glorify Him who alone loves mankind. Now… The Creator of all and Master of the world,* though He is on high with the Father and the Spirit,* is circumcised on earth as a babe eight days of age.* Truly divine and wondrous are Your works!* For You, O Master, who are the Fulfilment of the law* was circumcised for our sake. Psalm Reading & Small Litany Sessional Hymn II Tone 8 You divinely drew forth the mystic riches of ineffable wisdom,* and have poured forth upon all the waters of Orthodoxy* which divinely gladden the hearts of the faithful* and fittingly drown the commands of the infidels.* Wherefore, in both have you been shown to be an invincible champion of the Trinity* by the sweat of your works of piety, O holy hierarch Basil.* Entreat Christ God, that He grant remission of transgressions* to those who with love celebrate your holy memory. Tone 3, Glory... To the whole world you have given to drink your doctrines,* the collected dogmas of piety, as though they were water;* for the Well-spring of life truly resided within you, O Basil.* As you have acquired boldness, O divinely inspired one,* beseech Him to grant us great mercy. Tone 4, Now… He who is invisible in essence is now become visible in the flesh;* the uncreated Word now takes form, born of the pure Virgin.* Wherefore, following the law for the sake of us men,* He is circumcised as a babe eight days of age.* Let us therefore worship Him as our Saviour. Polyeleos Exaltation We extol You,* O Christ, the Giver of life,* and we honour the circumcision of Your all-pure flesh,* which You deigned to endure in accordance with the law. We extol you,* O Basil, holy hierarch of Christ,* and we honour your holy memory* for you pray to Christ our God for us. Shout joyfully to the Lord all the earth; sing to His name, give to Him glorious praise. We extol you,* O Basil, holy hierarch of Christ,* and we honour your holy memory* for you pray to Christ our God for us. Your priests shall be clothed with holiness; Your faithful shall ring out their joy. We extol you,* O Basil, holy hierarch of Christ,* and we honour your holy memory* for you pray to Christ our God for us. He has sent deliverance to His people. Holy is His name. We extol you,* O Basil, holy hierarch of Christ,* and we honour your holy memory* for you pray to Christ our God for us. They are happy, who dwell in Your house, forever singing Your praise. We extol you,* O Basil, holy hierarch of Christ,* and we honour your holy memory* for you pray to Christ our God for us. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. We extol you,* O Basil, holy hierarch of Christ,* and we honour your holy memory* for you pray to Christ our God for us. Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to You, O God! (3) We extol you,* O Basil, holy hierarch of Christ,* and we honour your holy memory* for you pray to Christ our God for us. Sessional Hymn, Tone 8 By the power of your divine words you cast down dark heresies:* you drowned all the insolence of Eunomius, for you preached that the Spirit is God,* and you slayed the enemy with the work of your hands;* and you drove away all the ministry of Sabellius and set at nought all the reasonings of Nestorius.* O holy hierarch Basil, entreat Christ God, that He grant remission of transgressions* to those who with love celebrate your holy memory. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. The grace of your divine discourses and the mystic heights of your dogmas* have become for us a ladder of divine ascent;* for having acquired the clarion of the Spirit, O father,* you thereby proclaimed divine doctrines.* wherefore, you have made your abode in a place of verdure,* receiving the reward for your struggles.* O venerable hierarch Basil, entreat Christ God, that He grant remission of transgressions* to those who with love celebrate your holy memory. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. The Master and Creator of all, who received flesh from your all-pure womb,* has shown you to be an intercessor for men, O most immaculate one;* wherefore, we all flee to you, asking to be cleansed of our transgressions, O Mistress,* and to be delivered from everlasting torments and all the oppression of the evil prince of this world.* For this cause we cry to you:* Entreat your Son and God, that He grant remission of transgression* to those who with faith worship your most holy birthgiving. Gradual Hymn, Tone 4 Antiphon 1 From my youth do many passions war against me;* but do You Yourself defend* and save me, O my Saviour. You haters of Sion shall be shamed by the Lord;* for like grass, by the fire* shall you be withered. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit, every soul is quickened,* and, through cleansing, is exalted* and made radiant* by the Triple Unity in a hidden sacred manner. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 My mouth shall speak wisdom;* the meditation of my heart shall be understanding. verse: Hear this, all peoples; give ear all inhabitants of the earth! Gospel John 10:9-16 After Psalm 50 Tone 6, Glory… Through the prayers of the holy Basil, saint and bishop,* O merciful Lord,* cleanse me from the multitude of my transgressions! Now… Through the prayers of the Theotokos,* O merciful Lord,* cleanse me from the multitude of my transgressions! Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your great mercy; according to the multitude of Your compassions, blot out my transgressions. The grace flowed from your lips, O holy father Basil.* You were the shepherd of the Church of Christ,* teaching your reason-endowed sheep to believe in the holy Trinity,* consubstantial on the one Godhead. Canon, Tone 2 Ode 1 Irmos Come, all people! Let us sing a song to God who divided the sea, guiding the people He led out from bondage to the Egyptians: for gloriously has He been glorified! Glory to You, our God, glory to You! Bearing a symbol of things to come, the eighth day is sanctified and brightened by Your voluntary poverty, Christ, for on this day you were circumcised in the flesh according to the Law. Glory to You, our God, glory to You! Christ accepts the circumcision of the eighth day after His birth, and on that day the prefiguring shadow is clothed by the light of the dawning new grace. Irmos Come, all people! Let us sing a song to God who divided the sea, guiding the people He led out from bondage to the Egyptians: for gloriously has He been glorified! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! The sound of your voice would be welcome company for those desiring to prepare praises in your honour! But in its place, grant them the indulgence of abundant grace Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! You tamed the play of the passions and torments of the flesh by your love for the pursuit of wisdom. Therefore, father Basil, you dwell in the unassailable kingdoms. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! You trod the thorny path of virtues, Basil, to reach the plain and peaceful way up to heaven, and so were revealed as a pattern for all humanity. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! With the sword of the Spirit, Basil, you wisely cut down the passions both of soul and body, and offered yourself as a sacrifice to the Master. Glory... You befriended ineffable things, Basil, initiating mankind into the kingdom of Christ, holy father, causing the light of the Trinity to shine clearly on us. Now… Who can rightly tell of your ineffable conceiving? For you bore God in the flesh, the Saviour of all who appeared to us, most holy Virgin! Katavasia The Lord mighty in battle uncovered the foundations of the deep and led His servants on dry ground; but He covered their adversaries with the waters, for He has been glorified! Katavasia Israel passed through the storm-tossed deep of the sea, which God had turned into dry land: but the dark waters completely covered the chief captains of Egypt in a watery grave, through the mighty strength of the right hand of the Master. Ode 3 Irmos O Lord, as You put sin to death upon the tree, establish us in You, and plant the fear of You in the hearts of those who sing Your praises! Glory to You, our God, glory to You! Made flesh, the transcendent Word was circumcised to the fulfilment and end of the Law, giving us the divine first fruits of grace and incorruptible life. Glory to You, our God, glory to You! The Incarnate Christ showed Himself as the divine Fulfiller of the Law, condescending to be circumcised on the eighth day. Irmos Lord, as You put sin to death upon the tree, establish us in You, and plant the fear of You in the hearts of those who sing Your praises! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! You manifestly trampled down the things of the earth with the fullness of all teaching, Basil, and the light of a better world. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! For love of the better part, you flew on wings of wisdom, Basil, taught in the fear of the Lord, the beginning of wisdom. Glory… You wisely ascended by action, Basil, showing deeds to be the way to the most divine contemplation, learning well the knowledge of future things. Now… Pure and ever Virgin, you conceived God in your womb without seed and ineffably brought Him forth upon whom the hosts of heaven dare not gaze! Katavasia The Lord who gives strength to our kings and exalts the horn of His anointed, is born of a Virgin and comes to baptism. Therefore let us, the faithful, cry aloud: none is holy as our God and none is righteous save you, O Lord! Katavasia We have all been set loose from the ancient snares and the jaws of the devouring lions have been broken: let us then, rejoice exceedingly and open our mouths in song, weaving with words a melody to the Word who delights to grant gifts to us! Small Litany 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. Ode 4 Irmos I have heard the report of Your dispensation, Lord, and I have glorified You, only Lover of mankind. Glory to You, our God, glory to You! Circumcision has ceased for Christ was circumcised of His own will, granting the nations remission of sins, and saving them by grace. Glory to You, our God, glory to You! The eighth day, the day on which Christ the Master was circumcised in the flesh, portrays for us the eternal life of the age to come. Irmos I have heard the report of Your dispensation, Lord, and I have glorified You, only Lover of mankind. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! The Church is adorned as a bride by the birth of the Christ Child and by the memorial of St. Basil. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! Honouring the divine Child, you reverently taught, Basil, that He is not created by the Godhead! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! You unashamedly fought for God, humbling yourself, Basil, before all His ordinances. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! All-blessed Basil, you were given by God to the Church as a fortress and unassailable wall. Glory… All-blessed father Basil, you appeared a destroying weapon to the opponents of God, and as a fire burning up deceit. Now… Undefiled One, who conceived God without seed, we entreat you to intercede for your servants. Katavasia He whom you have called, O Lord, the voice of one crying in the wilderness, heard Your voice when You thundered upon many waters, bearing witness to Your Son. Wholly filled with the Spirit that had come, He cried aloud: You are Christ, the Wisdom and the Power of God! Katavasia Cleansed by the fire of a mystic vision the prophet sang the praises of the renewal of mortal man. Filled with the inspiration of the Spirit, he raised his voice, telling of the incarnation of the ineffable Word who has shattered the dominion of the strong. Ode 5 Irmos Lord, the Giver of light and Creator of the ages, guide us by the light of Your statutes, for we know no other God but You! Glory to You, our God, glory to You! Not thinking it unworthy to put on the form of mortal man, You proceeded from a Virgin Mother in ways past understanding, Lord, and as a child, You lawfully fulfilled the Law. Glory to You, our God, glory to You! Loving the shadow of the Law, Israel entered into night, while Christ, the Light of the world has been revealed, flashing forth from you as lightning, O Theotokos. Irmos Lord, the Giver of light and Creator of the ages, guide us by the light of Your statutes, for we know no other God but You! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! Today the Church worthily honours a twofold feast: the feast of the circumcision of the Master as a child who appeared on earth, and the memorial of His wise and thrice-blessed servant. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! The incomprehensible Light ever rested in you, O saint, and Christ has manifested you as a radiant lamp to the world; therefore we praise your memory, Basil. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! Moses the lawgiver, and Joseph, who before the Law, distributed corn for food, were not equal to you, Basil, for you were manifested as a celebrant at the breaking of the divine Flesh at the altar. Glory… What was present on Sinai and shown to Moses as in a dim mirror, you made plain to all humanity, Basil. Now… We cry out to you who bore Christ the creator: rejoice, Pure One! Rejoice, for you have made the Light to rise for us! Rejoice, for you have encompassed the uncircumscribed God! Katavasia Jesus, the Prince of Life, has come to set loose the first-formed man from condemnation and though as God He needs no cleansing, yet for the sake of fallen man He is cleansed in the Jordan. In its streams He slew the enmity and grants the peace that passes all understanding. Katavasia We have been washed by the cleansing of the Spirit from the poison of the dark and unclean enemy, and we have set out upon a new path free from error, leading to gladness of heart beyond all attaining, which only they attain whom God has reconciled to himself. Ode 6 Irmos An abyss of sins has finally encompassed me. But, O Lord, lead my life up out of corruption as You led up Jonah! Glory to You, our God, glory to You! The Law became of no effect when Christ became a child, and was manifest as the fulfilment of the Law. By accepting circumcision, He has set us free from its curse. Glory to You, our God, glory to You! Through the Spirit, Christ by appearing has caused the Sabbaths and circumcision of the haughty Jews to cease, and the spring of grace has shone! Irmos An abyss of sins has finally encompassed me. But, O Lord, lead my life up out of corruption as You led up Jonah! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! You bountifully fed the souls of the poor, wasted with hunger, Basil, filling their famished hearts with every divine gladness! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! You fed the souls of the hungry with heavenly food, for your word, Basil, is the bread of angels, and you were a generous dispenser of grain. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! With love of labour, Basil, you gathered every virtue as bees from the flowers. Becoming all-wise, you were called blessed. Glory… You made haste to break the bonds of the world in order to live with God. Therefore laying aside unstable and corruptible things, you wisely gained those that are eternal. Now… Unwedded Theotokos, Mary, the bush on Sinai transfigured with fire portrayed you, Ever-Virgin Mother! Katavasia The voice of the Word, the Candlestick of the Light, the Morning Star and Forerunner of the Sun, cried in the wilderness to all the peoples: repent and be cleansed while there is yet time. For lo, Christ is at hand, who delivers the world from corruption. Katavasia The Father in a voice full of joy made manifest His Beloved whom He had begotten from the womb. This is indeed my offspring, He said, of the same nature as Myself: bearing light, He has come forth from mankind, My Living Word, in divine providence made a mortal man. Small Litany Kontakion, Tone 4 You have appeared 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. Ikos Spiritually, the great Basil was a cup of purity, a mouth of wisdom, and a pillar of the doctrines that shine for us as lightning. Come, then, and let us stand in the house of God, and behold fervently the same miracles that brought him the fullness of joy! And as lamps burning brightly, let us warm ourselves by the pure spirit of his life, his faith, his fervour, and his humility. Through these he was manifested as the dwelling of God. Crying aloud to him, we sing: Saint Basil: our venerable and heavenly father! Ode 7 Irmos Your three children trampled on the ungodly command to adore the golden calf on the Persian field, and sprinkled with dew, they sang in the midst of the fire: blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers! Glory to You, our God, glory to You! Today the bright and shining birth of Christ and the mystery of the coming rebirth are portrayed. For the Saviour is circumcised according to the decree of the Law, not as God but as mortal man, yet the Fulfiller of the Law! Glory to You, our God, glory to You! Today the Maker of the Law is voluntarily circumcised, thus fulfilling it and circumcising our sins, causing us to cry: blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers! Irmos Your three children trampled on the ungodly command to adore the golden calf on the Persian field, and sprinkled with dew, they sang in the midst of the fire: blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! The Son has appeared as an image of the Father, and the Spirit as an image of the Son: and you, Basil, are a clear glass and a dwelling of the Trinity. Your memory is blessed, and those who glorify it shall themselves be glorified! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! You plunged your mind into the depth of the incomprehensible things of God, and collecting the most precious pearl of knowledge, you enriched the world with wisdom, teaching it to cry: blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! You both were as one soul in two bodies: Gregory in Basil and Basil in Gregory, united by divine love. Pray now to Christ for your flock. Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! Father of orphans and champion of widows, wealth for the poor and comfort for the weak! You were shown, Basil, to be a guide for the wealthy, a staff for the old, and a teacher of virtue for the young who lived the monastic life. Glory… You cleansed your mind of filthy defilement, and in the Spirit you longed for, you searched out the things of the Spirit. Therefore, singing the praises of the Trinity, you cried out with boldness: blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers! Now… Moses foresaw you on Mount Sinai as pure as the burning bush, receiving unconsumed the unbearable brightness of the Ineffable One who was united in you as one of the holy Persons, to the flesh of mankind. Katavasia The breath of the wind heavy with dew and the descent of the angel of God preserved the holy children from all harm, as they walked in the fiery furnace. Refreshed with dew in the flames, they sang in thanksgiving: blessed are You and praised above all, Lord God of our fathers! Katavasia He who stilled the heat of the flame of the furnace that mounted high in the air and encircled the godly children, burnt the heads of the dragons in the stream of the Jordan: and with the dew of the Spirit He washes away all the stubborn obscurity of sin. Ode 8 Irmos All works of the Lord, bless the Lord: the Word of God who has ordered all things in His wisdom, leading them from nothingness into being! Glory to You, our God, glory to You! The Master was circumcised on the eighth day, and He received the name of Jesus, for He is the Saviour and the Lord of all the world. Glory to You, our God, glory to You! The most glorious memorial of the bishop is joined to the feast of the nativity of Christ. Honouring both the feasts, we sing the praises of the Lord! Irmos All works of the Lord, bless the Lord: the Word of God who has ordered all things in His wisdom, leading them from nothingness into being! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! Basil, the light of godliness and trumpet of theology has been given to the world in an ineffable dispensation. All works of the Lord, bless the Lord! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! A generous and active power dwelt in the wise Basil, and he discoursed with reverence on the nature of God: all works of the Lord, bless the Lord! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! Ever delighting in your divine words and praising your memory, we cry, Basil: all works of the Lord, bless the Lord! Holy father Basil, pray to God for us! Enlightening the world with the radiance of your words, Basil, you guided it with light to worship the one nature of the Trinity. All works of the Lord, bless the Lord! Glory… Now… All works of the Lord, bless God the Word, pre-eternal and timeless, proceeding from the Father, and in these latter days arising from the Virgin! We praise, bless and worship the Lord, singing and exalting him throughout all ages! Katavasia The Babylonian furnace, as it poured forth dew, foreshadowed a marvellous mystery: how the Jordan should receive in its streams the immaterial fire, and should encompass the creator, when he was baptized in the flesh. Peoples, bless and exalt him above all forever. Katavasia The creation finds itself set free, and those in darkness are now made sons of light: alone, the prince of darkness groans. Let all the inheritance of the nations, that was before in misery, now bless with eagerness him who has wrought this change! Ode 9 O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honour than the hosts on high; O my soul, magnify Him who is circumcised in the flesh according to the Law! Irmos All pure and blessed one, you ineffably gave flesh from your virgin womb to the light that was before the sun, the god who shone forth and came in the body to live with us. We magnify you, Theotokos! O my soul, magnify Him who received circumcision on the eighth day! Today the Master is circumcised in the flesh fulfilling the Law as an infant. O my soul, magnify Him who received circumcision on the eighth day! Today the Master is circumcised in the flesh and is called Jesus! O my soul, magnify Him who received circumcision on the eighth day! Christ surpassed the limits of mankind’s entire nature! He was born beyond nature of a Virgin, and He who clearly directs the letter of the Law is circumcised in the flesh and shown to be the Fulfilment of the Law! O my soul, magnify the Church of God in her beauty! Come, let us keep the solemn feast! Let us celebrate holy things: the glorious naming of the Master, Christ. For today Jesus is called by His Name, as is divinely fitting. And together with these holy things, we magnify the memorial of the holy bishop. O my soul, magnify Basil, great among holy bishops; O my soul, magnify Basil the Great from Caesarea! Irmos All pure and blessed one, you ineffably gave flesh from your virgin womb to the light that was before the sun, the god who shone forth and came in the body to live with us. We magnify you, Theotokos! O my soul, magnify the bright luminary of the inhabited earth! Basil, faithful sheep of the chief Shepherd, Christ, you followed in His life-giving footsteps, for you gave up your soul to the tyrant, nobly braving the dangers which were threatening the Church, all-blessed father. O my soul, magnify the bright luminary of the inhabited earth! Beholding the sacred structure of the Church of Christ adorned by you as bishop, wise Basil, the all-destructive tyrant fell as one struck by thunder, for he could not bear the radiance of the Spirit that was in you. O my soul, magnify him who adorns the Church of Christ! You were counted worthy of the sees of the Apostles, Basil, of the choirs of the martyrs of Christ, the mansions of the patriarchs, the delight of the righteous and company of the prophets, for you were a friend of the Theotokos and a servant of the Trinity. Glory… O my soul, magnify the power of the Godhead in Three Persons and undivided! Now… O my soul, magnify her who delivered us from the curse! The only Lord, who covers the heavens with waters setting the bounds of the sea and drying up the unfathomed deep, has assumed flesh from you. He hastens from Bethlehem to the Jordan to be baptized in the flesh! Katavasia No tongue is capable of praising you worthily: the angelic mind is overawed in exalting you, Theotokos! But accept our faith, since you are gracious and know our divine love. You are the protectress of Christians, and we praise you! Katavasia Most pure Bride, blessed Mother, the wonders of your childbearing pass all understanding. Through you we have obtained the salvation of all, and fittingly rejoice truly before you, our Benefactor, bringing as a gift a song of thanksgiving! Hymn of Light, Tone 3 With the desire of love of wisdom you cut away that which covered your soul, O father, and in your miracles were shown to the world to be like the sun; and you have illumined the thoughts of the faithful, O divinely wise Basil, initiate of the mysteries of the Trinity and servant of the Theotokos. (2) Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. The Creator of the ages, who has fulfilled the law, is circumcised in the flesh as a babe eight days of age; He is wrapped in swaddling bands as a man; He is fed with milk who, as God, sustains all things by His infinite might and holds all things in His hand. At the Praises, Tone 5 He who as the Word was ineffably begotten of the Father without separation or corruption* endures circumcision in the flesh,* and as God begotten by God He remains immutably divine;* wherefore, He who is above the law,* following the law delivers all from the curse of the law,* and grants them blessing from on high.* For this cause, praising His all-good condescension,* we hymn and glorify Him in thanksgiving,* entreating Him to grant our souls great mercy. (2) Having become a child of God through grace,* by the regeneration of divine baptism, O venerable one,* in essence and truth you confessed the pre-eternal Son and Word of God,* as consubstantial and equally unoriginate with the Father;* and with the brilliance of your words you shut the gaping mouths of the heretics.* Wherefore, you have made your abode in the kingdom on high,* reigning together with Christ, who rules alone and naturally,* and does richly accord great mercy to the world. Through activity and vision you entered within the temple of heaven as a sacred priest,* vested in the principles of wisdom as with holy raiment.* And now, serving as priest at the altar of heaven, O venerable one,* and standing before God, performing the immaterial service,* mercifully remember those who celebrate your sacred and most honoured memory, O most blessed Basil,* entreating Christ, who grants the world great mercy. Wholly consecrated to God and dedicated to Him from childhood in every way, shining forth with the rays of wisdom all-divine you have made clear the understanding of those things which exist, speaking plainly and holding forth in wisdom, revealing the order of nature, that all may recognize the work of God. Wherefore, we proclaim you to be a divinely eloquent and godly teacher and a radiant beacon of the Church, who prays to Christ, who grants the world great mercy. Made steadfast by the fear of God,* you understood the beginning of wisdom, O Basil.* You surpassed fear by the wisdom and uprightness of your life, O father,* and, united to God by love, you became His alone.* Wherefore, having learned His divine justifications and judgments,* you taught morals to men, and adorned the minds of the faithful,* making the council splendid by your spiritual laws.* For this cause, entreat Christ, that He grant great mercy to our souls. Tone 6, Glory… Grace was poured forth in your lips, O venerable father,* and you were a shepherd of the Church of Christ,* teaching the reason-endowed sheep to believe in the consubstantial Trinity,* in the one Godhead. Tone 8, Now… Descending to the human race,* the Saviour deigned to be wrapped in swaddling-bands,* and He did not refuse to be circumcised in the flesh* as an eight-day old infant born of His Mother,* but unoriginate according to His Father.* To Him, O you faithful, let us cry:* You are our God! Have mercy upon us! Troparia, 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… Now… 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. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia 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) Epistle Colossians 2:8-12; Hebrews 7:26-8:2 Alleluia, Tone 8 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 Luke 2:20-21, 40-52; Luke 6:17-23 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.:

Dec 31, 2024 - Leave-taking of the Feast of the Nativity of Christ; Our Venerable Mother Melania the Roman.

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 31, 2024 VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. 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. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. 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. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust 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. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. 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. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. 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. 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. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 2 A great and marvellous wonder* has come to pass this day!* A Virgin gives birth,* yet her womb remains undefiled;* the Word takes flesh,* yet remains unseparated from the Father.* Angels and shepherds give glory,* and with them we also exclaim:* “Glory to God in the highest,* and on earth peace!” Tone 3 The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand,* Until I make your enemies your footstool.” Today the Virgin gives birth to the Maker of all.* Eden offers a cave.* And a star discloses Christ the Sun, to those in darkness.* Magi, enlightened with faith, bow in worship with gifts.* Shepherds behold the wonder,* and Angels sing praises, saying:* “Glory to God in the highest!” Out of the womb before the morning-star,* have I begotten You! When the Lord Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea,* Magi from the East worshipped God made man.* They fervently opened their treasures* and offered Him precious gifts:* pure gold for the King of the ages,* frankincense for the God of all,* and myrrh for the Immortal One* as if for one three days dead.* All you nations, come, let us bow in worship* before the One who is born to save us. Tone 4, Glory… Make glad, O Jerusalem,* and all you who love Zion, keep the feast!* Today the ancient curse of Adam is loosed;* paradise is opened to us!* The serpent is laid low;* of old he deceived the woman in Paradise,* but now he sees a woman become Mother of the Creator* O the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!* The sinful vessel that brought death upon all flesh* has through the Theotokos become the first-fruits of salvation for the whole world.* For God the All-perfect is born a Babe of her* and by His birth he sets the seal upon her Virginity,* Through His swaddling clothes He looses the bands of sin;* and through becoming a child He heals Eve’s pangs in travail,* Therefore let all creation sing and dance for joy* for Christ has come to restore it* and to save our souls! Now... O Christ, You dwelt in a cave.* A manger received You.* Shepherds and Magi bowed in worship.* Thus the prophetic proclamation was fulfilled,* as angelic Powers stood in awe,* voicing the news and saying:* “Glory to Your condescension,* O only Lover of mankind!” 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. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY 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 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. 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. 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 1 Peter 3:10-22 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 Mark 12:18-27 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):

Dec 30, 2024 - The Holy Martyr Anysia; The Venerable Zoticus, Presbyter and Protector of Orphans.

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 30, 2024 Post-feast of the Nativity of Christ. VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms for this evening. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Made radiant by the splendour of virginity, O most lauded one,* you shone forth in the struggles of martyrdom;* for, refusing to worship the sun, you endured unjust slaughter,* and; dyed with your blood, you have come to stand before the Sun of glory,* illumined by the splendours emitted by Him, O crowned one. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Showing forth heartfelt love, O glorious one,* you drenched the earth with tears of compunction,* and wiped the footstool of Christ dry with your hair,* contemplating and looking toward Him as transcendent, whom desired;* and, touching His feet in mind, you enlightened your soul* with visions most divine. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Having distributed your wealth and provided for the poor,* you betrothed yourself to your incorrupt Bridegroom, O most glorious one,* and as a dowry brought to Him the streams of your blood* and the endurance of sufferings which you bore, O Anysia.* And the Most High has caused your to dwell in His bridal-chamber* as a passion-bearer and martyr. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O you who have enrolled in the choirs of the angels,* when divine love set you afire and caused you to soar far above visible things* because of your dispassion and purity,* then with words of trust in God you brought your spouse to life,* putting aside the fleeting and inconstant tumult of life.* Having found with him everlasting life and delight,* you pray to the Master that He save our souls. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Desiring the life of the angels when you vomited up sweet food,* and having trained yourself in abstinence* and the keeping of vigil in lying on the ground and in purity,* you became the most pure vessel of the divine Spirit,* adorned for Him with all-splendid gifts, O most honoured one.* You drew the people toward His divine love, O Melania,* and lead them to the Master, the Saviour of our souls. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Adorned with the beauties of the virtues when you fulfilled the word of the Saviour,* you gave to the poor and wretched, distributing ten thousands of golden coins,* and received heavenly riches,* being enriched forever with righteousness, incorruption and deliverance.* We honour your repose and earnestly entreat you: Entreat the Creator that He enlighten our souls. Tone 1, Glory… Now… “Glory to God in the highest!” is heard from the incorporeal ones in Bethlehem today,* addressed to Him who was well pleased to become Peace on earth.* Now the Virgin is become more spacious than the heavens,* for Light has shone forth upon the benighted and lifted up the lowly* who chant with the angels: Glory to God in the highest! Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 2 Christ, shining forth as a star from Jacob,* has enlightened the nations with the light of divine knowledge.* Let us glorify Him! From the womb before the morning star have I begotten You. The Lord has sworn and will not repent. Rejoice, O Bethlehem, city of David,* for He who was begotten of the Father without mother* has become incarnate within you without father* of the pure Virgin, the divine Maiden. The Lord said to my Lord: Sit at My right hand. The Word of the Father, assuming flesh, has been born,* has been wrapped in swaddling clothes and lain in a manger,* releasing me from irrationality. Tone 1, Glory… Now… Beholding that which He had created* according to His image and likeness corrupted by disobedience,* Jesus descended, bowing down the heavens,* and made His abode in the Virgin’s womb without undergoing change,* that in her He might restore Adam who had become corrupt, yet cries:* Glory to Your appearance,* O my Deliverer and God! Troparia Tone 4 Your lamb, Anysia, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy save our souls. Tone 8, Glory… You loved the purity of virginity* and supplicated your Beloved with gracious words.* You spent your fortunes for the monks and nuns,* and you even built them monasteries, O blessed Melanie.* Now that you have retired to a heavenly monastery, do not forget us. 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 the high.* Glory to You, O Lord. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY 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 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 4: Your lamb, Anysia, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy 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 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 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 1 Peter 2:21-3:9 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 Mark 12:13-17 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):

Dec 29, 2024 - 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.

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 29, 2024 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, 16 Small 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, 23 Small 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):

Dec 28, 2024 - Saturday after the Nativity of Christ. The Two Thousand Martyrs who were burned in Nicomedia; Blessed Hieromartyr Hryhoriy (Gregory) Khomyshyn, Bishop of Stanyslaviv.

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 28, 2024 VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. As One most perfect, You bear the guise of Adam in the image of God,* and desire to be held in my arms, O You who in Your power hold all things in Your hand.* And the pure and most immaculate one declared, saying:* “How is it that I have wrapped You in swaddling bands as a babe?* How is it that I nurture You with milk, You who feed all?* How is it that I marvel at Your poverty, which passes understanding?* How can I call You my Son, if I am now Your handmaiden?* I hymn and bless You who grant the world great mercy!” I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Seeing the pre-eternal God incarnate from her as a babe,* holding Him in her arms and kissing Him often,* full of joy, the most immaculate one declared to Him:* “O God Most High, invisible King, how is it that I see You,* but cannot understand the mystery of Your boundless poverty?* For this least and strangest of caves contains You who was born therein without violating my virginity,* but preserving my womb as it was before birth-giving,* and granting great mercy to all.” From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Declaring these things in awe as a servant,* the pure one heard the magi standing together before the cave, and said to them:* “Whom do you seek? For I see that you have come from a faraway land:* having Persian dress and wisdom, you have made a strange departure and journey.* With haste you have come to worship Him* who has journeyed from the highest and within me has strangely made His abode,* granting the world great mercy.” Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Enlivened by strength,* fortified mightily and endowed with the power of Christ the Master,* in the weakness of your nature* you were shown to be invincible, O athletes,* vanquishing the enemy amid your struggles.* Pray for those who celebrate your holy and luminous memory,* O glorious great martyrs. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Theophilus, Dorotheus and Mygdonius,* together with Gorgonius and Secundus, Peter and Indes,* who were valorous in word and deed,* rejoicing, have vanquished the hordes of the enemy;* and they pray that those who faithfully celebrate their most honoured memory* be delivered from all misfortunes. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Youths and virgins, elders and children,* together showed forth the same valour.* As peers they have received their rewards through grace,* abiding with God, the King of all.* Let us honour them with sacred hymns as radiant beacons of the whole world,* twenty thousand in number. Tone 5, Glory… Now.... Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice!* For today angels and men have truly become a single flock.* O the wonder! The Invisible One becomes visible;* the Word becomes flesh; the Son of God become the Son of the Virgin!* And the Virgin who knew not man is seen to be the Mother of God,* and, a Mother after giving birth, she is found to be a virgin!* The incarnate Word of the Father lies in a manger,* and shepherds are become his heralds, sharing in the mystery.* Magi from the East have brought gifts, guided by the star,* and have worshiped the newborn Saviour.* And, fervently opening the treasuries of our hearts,* with them we who love the feasts of the Church* also offer Him good works—faith, hope, and love—like gold, frankincense and myrrh,* crying out to Him with the words of the incorporeal ones:* Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill among men!* For He has come to save our whole race from deception! Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 2 Divinely assuming all of the first Adam from the Virgin, O Christ,* You were born in the cave* and laid, swaddled, in the manger. From the womb before the morning star have I begotten You. The Lord has sworn and will not repent. Sing out prophetically, O David, striking your harp,* for from your loins, from whence the Theotokos sprung,* is Christ born today. The Lord said to my Lord: Sit at My right hand. O faithful, let us offer praise fit for God with the shepherds and magi,* and glory with the angels,* to God who sprung forth from the Virgin. Tone 1, Glory… Now… “Glory to God in the highest!” is heard from the incorporeal ones in Bethlehem today,* addressed to Him who was well pleased to become Peace on earth.* Now the Virgin is become more spacious than the heavens,* for Light has shone forth upon the benighted* and lifted up the lowly who chant with the angels:* Glory to God in the highest! Troparia Tone 2 O victorious martyrs of the Lord,* blessed is the earth that received your blood,* and holy are the heavenly places that opened to your souls.* You have vanquished the enemy in battle and proclaimed Christ with courage.* We beg you to intercede with Him, the all-good One,* that He may save our souls. Tome 4, Glory… 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 the high.* Glory to You, O Lord. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY 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 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. 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. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 I will remember your name throughout all generations. verse: Hear, O daughter, and see, and incline your ear. (Psalm 44:18,11) Epistle 1 Timothy 6:11-16 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Rise up, Lord, to the place of Your rest, You and the ark of You holiness. verse: The Lord swore an oath to David, and will not go back on His word. (Psalm 131:8,11) Gospel Matthew 12:15-21 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 I will take the cup of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 115:13) 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):

Dec 27, 2024 - The Holy Apostle, First Martyr and Archdeacon Stephen; Our Venerable Father and Confessor Theodore the Branded One, Composer of Canons.

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 27, 2024 VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Having enlightened your thought with the grace of the spirit,* you appeared like an angel in countenance, O Stephen,* your body, luminous with inner splendour,* emitting spiritual radiance upon them that beheld your,* for which cause you received a vision of light,* for the heavens were most gloriously opened to you,* first among martyrs and their boast. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. The castings of stones were to you like steps and a ladder leading up to heaven;* for, entering thereupon you beheld the Lord standing at the right hand of the Father,* stretching forth to you the crown for which you were named* with His life-bearing right hand.* Close before Him you stand as a worthy victor, the foremost of athletes. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Radiant with signs and wonders,* you utterly destroyed the assembly of the most iniquitous with your dogmas;* and, slain by them, put to death by stoning,* you prayed for the forgiveness of them that slew you,* emulating thereby the Saviour’s cry,* into whose hands you committed your spirit, O sacred Stephen. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. To the bitterness of your exile was added the most grievous misery of imprisonment, O venerable one,* when he that iniquitously usurped the lawful throne* grievously perverted the laws of the Faith* and cast down the all-pure image of the Saviour.* But by the grace of God, O favourite of Christ, you put him to shame. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Neither prison, nor confinement, nor lightless gloom,* nor wounds, nor beatings, nor affliction grievous, long and unbearable,* nor lack of food, could separate thee from your love for God,* O divinely eloquent father Theodore;* for you steadfastly endured them,* foreseeing the reward of your labours. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. In place of tribulation has the just Judge of the contest given you liberty;* in place of darkness, radiance.* And for that which was graven on your face, O wondrous one,* you have been written in the Book of Life,* and have been numbered among the firstborn of the Church in the highest,* and have most joyously come to the feast of the angels. Tone 2, Glory… A most splendid crown is offered to the King and Master of all,* who was born on earth, fashioned not of rubies,* but resplendent with the drops of your blood, O Stephen.* Come, you that love the martyrs, and, taking up hymns as they were flowers,* let us crown him, and chanting hymns, let us say:* O protomartyr, who illumined your soul with wisdom and grace,* entreat Christ God that He grant us peace and great mercy! Now… A great and most glorious wonder is wrought today:* A Virgin gives birth, yet her womb suffers no corruption!* The Word is incarnate, yet is not separated from the Father!* Angels give glory in company with shepherds;* and with them we cry out: Glory to God in the highest,* and on earth peace, good will toward men! Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 1 Let us hymn Him who is now worshipped by angels, shepherds, and Magi,* who shone forth from the Father before the ages,* and, as the Son, ever exists in the bosom of the Father,* who in latter times has sat upon His Mother’s arms* as upon a throne. From the womb before the morning star have I begotten You. Assembling in Bethlehem, O faithful,* let us behold the Creator of all lying in a manger* and them that bear a choice gift of three substances from the land of Chaldea to the King and God,* who for our sake was to lie three days dead. The Lord said to my Lord, Sit Thou at My right hand. Of the Virgin were you born in the cave,* and, surrounding You, the angelic armies cried out:* Glory to You, O God, in the highest,* who has been born in the guise of a servant,* and has made the world new in the womb of the Virgin,* the Mother that has not known man. Tone 6, Glory… First among martyrs and deacons have you been shown to be, O apostle Stephen;* adornment of athletes, confirmation of the faithful, glory of the righteous.* In that you stand before the throne of the King of all,* beg cleansing of transgressions for us that celebrate your honoured memory,* that we be accounted worthy of the Kingdom of heaven. Now… Today all the angels hold chorus in heaven,* and men rejoice, and all creation leaps for joy* because of the Lord and Saviour born in Bethlehem,* for all the falsehood of idolatry has ceased,* and Christ reigns forever. Troparia Tone 4 O apostle and first martyr for Christ,* you fought the good fight* and exposed your persecutors’ wickedness.* For when you were killed by stoning at the hands of the lawless* you received a crown from on high from God’s right hand,* while crying out to Him:* “O Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” Tone 8, Glory… O guide of the true faith, mirror of piety and commendable behaviour,* bright star of the universe, and adornment of pontiffs,* you enlightened us all by your teachings.* O wise Theodore, inspired by God and lyre of the Holy Spirit,* intercede with Christ our God that He may 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 the high.* Glory to You, O Lord. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY 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 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 4: O apostle and first martyr for Christ,* you fought the good fight* and exposed your persecutors’ wickedness.* For when you were killed by stoning at the hands of the lawless* you received a crown from on high from God’s right hand,* while crying out to Him:* “O Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” Glory be to the father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 3: Yesterday the Master came to us incarnate;* but His servant departs today from the flesh.* Yesterday the One who now reigns in the flesh was born;* but His servant today is killed by stoning.* For His sake the first martyr, the divine Stephen, gives up his life. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hands. (Psalm 18:5,2) Epistle Acts 6:8-7:5,47-60 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 Matthew 21:33-42 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 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5) 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):

Dec 26, 2024 - Synaxis of the Most Holy Mother of God; The Holy Hieromartyr Euthymius, Bishop of Sardis.

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 26, 2024 VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Come, let us greatly rejoice in the Lord* as we tell of this present mystery!* The dividing wall 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 comes forth from an unwedded mother.* 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:* O God born of a virgin, have mercy on us! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Come, let us greatly rejoice in the Lord* as we tell of this present mystery!* The dividing wall 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 comes forth from an unwedded mother.* 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:* O God born of a virgin, have mercy on us! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. 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! For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. 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! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. What shall we offer you, O Christ,* who for our sakes have appeared on earth as a 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.* Pre-eternal God, have mercy on us! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. What shall we offer you, O Christ,* who for our sakes have appeared on earth as a 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.* Pre-eternal God, have mercy on us! Tone 6, Glory… Now… Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace!* Today Bethlehem receives Him who ever sits with the Father.* Today angels glorify with holy hymns the Babe that is born.* Glory to God in the highest,* and on earth peace, good will towards men! Great Prokeimenon Who is so great a God as our God?* You are the God who do wonders! verse: Amongst the people have You made Your power known! verse: And I said: now have I made a beginning: this change has been wrought by the right hand of the Most High. verse: I have remembered the works of the Lord, and called to mind Your wonders from of old. Aposticha Tone 8 A great miracle has come to pass this day:* nature is made new and God becomes man!* That which He was, He has remained,* and that which He was not, He has taken on Himself* while suffering neither confusion nor division. The Lord said to my lord: sit at my right hand! Lord, you have come to Bethlehem* and have made Your dwelling in the cave.* You have heaven as Your throne,* yet You are laid in a manger!* The hosts of angels attend on every side* yet You have come down among shepherds,* that in Your compassion You might save mankind. Glory to You! From the womb before the morning star have I begotten you! How shall I tell of this great mystery?* He who is without flesh becomes incarnate;* the word puts on a body; the invisible is seen;* He whom no hand can touch is handled;* and He who knows no beginning now begins to be!* The Son of God becomes the Son of Man:* Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and for ever! Glory… Now… The shepherds hasten to Bethlehem, revealing the true shepherd,* seated upon the cherubim and lying in a manger!* For our sakes He has taken upon Himself the form of a child.* O Lord, glory to You! 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 high.* Glory to You, O Lord. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY 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 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. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 6: He who existed before the morning star* and was born of the Father without a mother,* today, O Full of Grace, becomes flesh from you without a father.* Wherefore, a star brings the news to the Magi* and angels with shepherds sing of how you gave birth ineffably. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46-48) Epistle Hebrews 2:11-18 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Rise up, Lord, to the place of Your rest, You and the ark of You holiness. verse: The Lord swore an oath to David, and will not go back on His word. (Psalm 131:8,11) Gospel Matthew 2:13-23 Hymn to the Mother of God O my soul, magnify the all-pure Virgin Mother of God, more honourable and glorious than the heavenly hosts. and the Irmos, Tone 1: To keep silence in fear would be easier for us to do, for this is free from danger, O Virgin Mother, and though it is hard indeed to properly weave hymns, O Mother, give us strength so that our good intentions may be fulfilled. 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):

Dec 25, 2024 - Nativity in the Flesh of Our Lord, God and Saviour Jesus Christ – Christmas.

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 25, 2024 Vespers with Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great on Tuesday, December 24 in the late afternoon The priest, fully vested, begins: Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. The people respond: Amen. Come, let us bow in worship before our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship before Christ, our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship and fall down before the very Lord Jesus Christ, our King and God! Psalm 103 Great Litany At Psalm 140 Tone 2 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. Let Your 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Reading I Genesis 1:1-13 In the beginning God made heaven and earth. The earth was invisible and unfinished; and darkness was over the deep. The Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the water. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. God saw the light; it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day; the darkness He called Night; and there was evening and morning, one day. Then God said, “Let there be a firmament in the midst of the water, and let it divide the water from the water”; and it was so. Thus God made the firmament, and God divided the water under the firmament from the water above the firmament. So God called the firmament Heaven, and God saw that it was good; and there was evening and morning, the second day. Then God said, “Let the water under heaven be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear”; and it was so. The water under heaven was gathered into its places, and the dry land appeared. So God called the dry land Earth, and the gathering together of the waters He called Seas; and God saw that it was good. Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth the herb of grass, bearing seed according to its kind and likeness. Let the fruit tree bear fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind on earth.” It was so. Thus the earth brought forth the herb of grass, bearing seed according to its kind and likeness. The fruit tree bore fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind on earth. God saw that it was good. So evening and morning were the third day. Reading II Numbers 24:2-3, 5-9, 17-18 Balaam raised his eyes and saw Israel encamped according to their tribes; and the Spirit of God came upon him. Then he took up his parable and said: How beautiful are your dwellings, O Jacob, Your tents, O Israel. Like wooded valleys offering shade, And like gardens by the rivers, Like tents the Lord pitched, Like cedars beside the waters. A Man shall come forth from his seed, And He shall rule many nations; And His kingdom shall be more exalted than Gog, And His kingdom shall increase. God led Him out of Egypt, And He has the glorious appearance of a unicorn. He shall consume the nations of his enemies And deprive them of their strength. He shall shoot the enemy with His missiles. He lies down and rests like a lion, And like a lion’s cub, who shall rouse Him? Those who bless You are blessed, And those who curse You are cursed.” I will show Him, but not now; I bless Him, but He is not near. A Star shall rise out of Jacob; And a Man shall rise out of Israel. He shall break in pieces the rulers of Moab And plunder all the sons of Seth. Edom shall be His inheritance, And also His enemy shall be His inheritance; But Israel acts with strength. Reading III Micah 4:6-7; 5:2-4a Thus says the Lord: “In that day, I shall gather her who has been broken, and I will welcome her who has been exiled, even those whom I have rejected. And I shall make her who has been broken into a remnant, and her that was rejected into a strong nation. So the Lord will reign over them in Mount Zion henceforth and forever. Therefore He shall give them up until the appointed time for her to give birth, and then the remnant of their brothers will return to the sons of Israel. And He shall stand and see, and shepherd His flock in the strength of the Lord, and they will dwell in the glory of the name of the Lord their God, for now they will be magnified unto the ends of the earth. And she will have peace. 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: Response: And it brought to You the Magi,* who with faith bowed down in worship.* Have mercy on them and us. Reading IV Isaiah 11:1-10 Thus says the Lord: “There shall come forth a rod from the root of Jesse, and a flower shall grow out of his root. The Spirit of God shall rest upon Him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and godliness. The Spirit of the fear of God shall fill Him. He shall not judge by reputation nor convict by common talk. But He will judge the cause of the humble, and reprove the humble of the earth. He shall strike the earth with the word of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He shall slay the ungodly. He shall gird His loins with righteousness and cover his sides with truth. “The wolf shall feed with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf, the bull, and the lion shall feed together; and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall graze together, and their young ones shall lie down together. The lion and the ox shall eat straw together. The nursing child shall play by the hole of asps, and the weaned child shall put his hand in the den of asps. They shall not hurt nor be able to destroy anyone on My holy mountain, for the whole world shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord, as much water covers the seas. “It shall come to pass in that day that there shall be a Root of Jesse who shall arise to rule nations. The Gentiles shall hope in Him, and His resting place shall be honorable.” Reading V Baruch 3:36-4:4 This is our God; no other shall be compared to Him. He found the whole way of knowledge and gave it to Jacob His servant and to Israel His beloved. Afterwards, He was seen upon the earth and lived among men. She is the book of the commandments of God and the law that endures forever. All those who keep her will live, but those forsaking her will die. Return, O Jacob, and take hold of her. Walk toward the radiance of the presence of her light. Do not give your glory to another or the things that are of advantage to you to a foreign nation. O Israel, we are blessed, for what is pleasing to our God is known to us. Reading VI Daniel 2:31-36; 44-45 Daniel said to Nebuchadnezzar: “As for you, O king, you saw and beheld one great image. That image was very large and its appearance excellent. It stood before you, and its vision was fearful. The image had a head made of fine gold, and its hands, chest, and arms were made of silver, and its stomach and thighs, of copper. Its legs were iron, and its feet were partly iron and partly clay. You saw while a stone was cut out of a mountain without hands, and it struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and ground them to powder. Then at once the clay, the iron, the copper, the silver, and the gold were like dust from the summer threshing floor, and a great force of wind blew them away; and their place was not to be found. Then the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and filled all the earth. “This is the dream, and we will tell its interpretation before the king. “Then in the times of those kings, the God of heaven will raise up a kingdom, and it shall never be destroyed. This kingdom shall not be left to another people, but it will break in pieces and crush all these kingdoms; and it will stand forever. Whereas you saw the stone cut out of the mountain without hands, it ground to powder the clay, the iron, the copper, the silver, and the gold. Thus the great God has made known to the king what must come to pass after this. The dream is true, and its interpretation is trustworthy.” 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. Reading VII Isaiah 9:6-7 For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. His name will be called the Angel of Great Counsel, for I shall bring peace upon the rulers, peace and health by Him. Great shall be His government, and of His peace there is no end. His peace shall be upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order and establish it with righteousness and judgment, from that time forward and unto ages of ages. The zeal of the Lord of hosts shall perform this. Reading VIII Isaiah 7:10-16, 8:1-4, 8-10 Moreover the Lord added this to Ahaz, saying, “Ask a sign for yourself from the Lord your God; ask it either in the depth or in the height above.” But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, nor will I tempt the Lord.” Then Isaiah said, “Hear now, O house of David, is it a small thing for you to weary men, but will you weary the Lord also? Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and you shall call His name Immanuel. Butter and honey He shall eat before He knows to prefer evil or choose the good, for before the Child knows good or evil, He refuses the evil to choose the good; and the land you fear because of the presence of the two kings will be abandoned. Moreover the Lord said to me, “Take for yourself a large new book, and write on it with a man’s pen concerning making a swift plunder of spoils, for it is near at hand. Then make witnesses for Me of faithful men: Uriah and Zechariah, the son of Berechiah.” Then I went to the prophetess, and she conceived and bore a son, and the Lord said to me, “Call his name Quickly Despoil, Swiftly Plunder; for before the child shall know how to call for his father and mother, one shall take the power of Damascus and the spoils of Samaria in the presence of the king of Assyria.” O God with us. Know this, O Gentiles, and be defeated. Give ear, all you to the very ends of the earth. Be defeated although you are strong, for even if you should be strong again, you will be defeated again. Then too, whatever counsel you take, the Lord will scatter it abroad; and whatever word you shall speak, it will not continue among you, for the Lord God is with us.” Then, the Small Litany and Trisagion followed by the Prokeimenon: Prokeimenon, Tone 1 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 Hebrews 1:1-12 Brethren, God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. For to which of the angels did He ever say: “You are My Son, Today I have begotten You”? And again: “I will be to Him a Father, And He shall be to Me a Son”? But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: “Let all the angels of God worship Him.” And of the angels He says: “Who makes His angels spirits And His ministers a flame of fire.” But to the Son He says: “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You With the oil of gladness more than Your companions.” And: “You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, And the heavens are the work of Your hands. They will perish, but You remain; And they will all grow old like a garment; Like a cloak You will fold them up, And they will be changed. But You are the same, And Your years will not fail.” 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 The Lord told this parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, which indeed is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.” Another parable He spoke to them: “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened.” All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: “I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world.” Then Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.” 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) FESTAL MATINS Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 4 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. (2) Glory… 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 the high.* Glory to You, O Lord. Psalter Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 1 For our sake, O long-suffering Saviour,* You were placed in the animal’s manger, * and You willingly lived as an infant.* The shepherds and angels extolled You, saying:* Glory and praise to Christ our God* who is born on earth and deifies the human race. Glory… Now… For our sake, O long-suffering Saviour,* You were placed in the animal’s manger, * and You willingly lived as an infant.* The shepherds and angels extolled You, saying:* Glory and praise to Christ our God* who is born on earth and deifies the human race. Psalter Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 3 O Theotokos, you carried in your womb, in the flesh,* the One who is eternal, incomprehensible, and consubstantial with the unseen Father,* the One and Indivisible divinity of the Trinity.* O ever-praised One, He shines forth your grace into the world.* Therefore, we unceasingly cry out to you: Rejoice, O pure Mother of God. Glory… Now… O Theotokos, you carried in your womb, in the flesh,* the One who is eternal, incomprehensible, and consubstantial with the unseen Father,* the One and Indivisible divinity of the Trinity.* O ever-praised One, He shines forth your grace into the world.* Therefore, we unceasingly cry out to you: Rejoice, O pure Mother of God. Polyeleos Magnification We extol You,* O life-giving Christ,* for our sake You are now born in the flesh* from the unbetrothed, all-pure Virgin Mary. verse: Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth, sing praise to His name; give to Him glorious praise. verse: The Lord has sent deliverance to His people. verse: The Lord said to my Lord, You are my Son; this day I have begotten You. verse: Before the daystar, like the dew, I have begotten you. The Lord has sworn, and He will not repent. Glory… Now… Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to You, O God! (3) Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 Come, O believers, let us see where Christ is born.* Furthermore, with the Magi, the kings from the East,* let us follow wherever the star goes.* The angels are praising Him there unceasingly;* the shepherds are singing a worthy song, saying:* Glory to God in the highest;* glory to Him who is born of the Virgin* in a cave in Bethlehem of Judea. Glory… Now… Come, O believers, let us see where Christ is born.* Furthermore, with the Magi, the kings from the East,* let us follow wherever the star goes.* The angels are praising Him there unceasingly;* the shepherds are singing a worthy song, saying:* Glory to God in the highest;* glory to Him who is born of the Virgin* in a cave in Bethlehem of Judea. Gradual Hymns, Tone 4 Antiphon 1 From my youth do many passions war against me;* but do You Yourself defend* and save me, O my Saviour. You haters of Sion shall be shamed by the Lord;* for like grass, by the fire* shall you be withered. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit, every soul is quickened,* and, through cleansing, is exalted* and made radiant* by the Triple Unity in a hidden sacred manner. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Before the daystar, like the dew, I have begotten You.* The Lord has sworn, and He will not repent. verse: The Lord said to my Lord: Sit at my right hand till I make your enemies your footstool. Let everything that lives, Tone 4 Gospel Matthew 1:18-25 Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Tone 2, Glory… All creation is filled with joy today.* Christ is born of the Virgin! Tone 2, Now… All creation is filled with joy today.* Christ is born in Bethlehem! Tone 6, Have mercy on me, God, in your kindness. In your compassion, blot out my offense. Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth.* Today Bethlehem receives the One who at all times sits with the Father.* Today the angels sing the praises of the new-born Infant.* Glory to God in the highest,* and on earth, peace and good will to all. Canon Ode 1 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: 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! Ode 4 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: 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: 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 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. Ode 7 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: 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. Ode 9 O my soul, extol the most holy Virgin Mother of God, who is more worthy of honour than the angels of heaven. 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 Hymn of Light, Tone 3 Our Saviour, the rising Sun more brilliant than any other sun,* has visited us today from on high.* We once were in the darkness and the shadow of error,* but now we have found the truth;* for the Virgin gives birth to the Lord our God in Bethlehem. (3) Praises Stichera of the Praises 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 6, Glory… At the time of Your coming upon earth,* the first census of the world took place.* At that time You wanted to enrol the names of all who believed in your birth.* Therefore, such a decree was published by Caesar because Your timeless and eternal kingdom was renewed by Your birth.* And now we offer You, O God and Saviour of our souls,* not gifts of silver and gold,* but the wealth of our true faith. Tone 2, Now… Today Christ is born of the Virgin in Bethlehem.* Today the Eternal One has a beginning;* today the Word becomes incarnate.* All the heavenly powers rejoice,* and all who dwell on earth are happy.* The Magi offer gifts to the Master;* the shepherds proclaim the marvel;* and we cry aloud unceasingly:* Glory to God in the highest* and on earth, peace and good will to all. Great Doxology Trisagion Prayers 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. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY OF ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM ON WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25 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 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 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 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 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! 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):

Dec 24, 2024 - Eve of the Nativity of Christ; The Holy Venerable-Martyr Eugenia.

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 24, 2024 Nativity Fast. Strict Fast. Abstention from meat and eggs (and, traditionally, dairy) and foods that contain these ingredients. According to liturgical prescriptions, the Divine Liturgy is not celebrated today. The Royal Hours are celebrated today after Matins. The Vespers-Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom is celebrated in the late afternoon today. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O You who are most perfect,* You bear the guide of Adam in the image of God;* You who hide all things in Your hands by Your power* desire to be held by human hands.* The pure and most immaculate one proclaimed, saying:* “How can I wrap You in swaddling-bands as a babe;* how can I feed You at my breasts who sustain all things?* How can I marvel at Your poverty which is past understanding?* How can I call You my Son, who am now Your handmaid?* I hymn and bless You, who bestow great mercy upon the world!” I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Beholding the pre-eternal God incarnate of her as a babe,* holding Him in her arms and kissing Him often,* full of joy the most immaculate one exclaimed to Him:* “O God Most High, invisible King, how can I look upon You?* I cannot grasp the mystery of Your boundless impoverishment!* For the least and most base of caves contains You, newly born, within itself,* who did not violate my virginity,* but preserved my womb as it was before birthgiving,* and granted great mercy!” From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The pure one heard the magi standing together outside the cave,* and, exclaiming in awe, she spoke these things to them as a servant:* “Whom do you seek?* For I see that you have come from a country far distant,* in that you have the appearance and wisdom of the Persians.* You have made a strange passage and journey,* and have come with haste to worship Him* who has made His journey from on high,* made His abode strangely within me,* as He knows how, and grants great mercy to the world!” Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Forsaking the beauty of the world,* you illumined the nobility of your soul* with the beauties of nobility, O most lauded Eugenia,* preserving the grace of the image of God untroubled throughout your life, O invincible martyr,* divine mirror of virginity,* most noble blossom of nature. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Having adorned yourself with discourse, life, and grace,* and with patience of soul,* you lead an army of athletes and an assembly of virgins* to Him who has shone forth from the Virgin* and has manifestly disclosed to all the entrance of witness, O most wise Eugenia.* With them entreat Him now that He save your flock. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The Founder of righteousness has magnificently adorned you with a twofold crown,* as a pure virgin and glorious martyr,* giving you a beautiful bridal-chamber illumined with effulgence,* where, making your abode, you have now manifestly been enriched with eternal blessedness,* O bride of Christ. Tone 6, Glory… Now… Behold, the time of our salvation has drawn nigh!* Make ready, O cave: the Virgin comes to give birth!* O Bethlehem, land of Judah, adorn yourself and be glad,* for from you has our Lord shone forth!* Hearken, mountains and hills, and lands of Judea round about, for Christ comes forth,* that He might save man whom He created, in that He loves mankind. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Aposticha Tone 1 “Bearing gifts of frankincense, myrrh, and gold to You, O Son,* the kings of the East have arrived, knowing that You were to be born;* and, lo! they stand beyond the doors!* Give the command that they behold You as an infant held in my arms,* who are far older than ancient Adam!” God shall come forth out of Teman, and the Holy One out of a mountain overshadowed and densely wooded. “Come and enter with haste,” the Virgin said to the magi of old,* “and behold the Invisible One who has become visible in becoming a babe!”* And they came in with ardour and rendered homage offered gifts,* fulfilling the divine prophecies. O Lord, I have heard Your report, and I was afraid; O Lord, I considered Your works, and I was amazed. “In my arms I bear You as a babe, who hold all things, and I am amazed,”* said she who knew not wedlock.* “How can I feed with You milk who feed all, O my Son and Creator?* I glorify Your boundless condescension toward men,* whereby You save the world which is perishing!” Tone 6, Glory… Now… Hold festival, O Sion! Be glad, O Jerusalem, O city of Christ God!* Receive your Creator, who is contained by the cave and the manger!* Open your gates to me, and, entering therein,* I shall behold as an infant wrapped in swaddling-bands* He who holds creation in the palm of His hand,* whom the angels hymn with unceasing voices:* the Lord and Bestower of life who saves our race! Troparia Tone 8 In you, O venerable mother Eugenia, the faithful image of God shone forth,* for you carried your cross and followed Christ.* You taught by your deeds how to spurn the body for it passes away;* and how to value the soul, for it is immortal.* Therefore, your soul is forever in happiness with the angels. Tone 4, Glory… Now… At that time Mary registered with the venerable Joseph in Bethlehem* since she was of the house of David.* She was with child, having conceived without seed.* When the time for her delivery drew near,* they could find no room in the inn,* but the cave seemed a joyful palace for the Queen.* Christ is born to renew the likeness that had been lost of old. Royal Hours for the Nativity in the Flesh of our Lord, God and Saviour Jesus Christ An ornamented lectern is set in the nave opposite the Holy Doors; the Priest and Deacon open the Holy Doors and come forth, the Priest with the Gospel Book and the Deacon with the censer. The Holy Doors remain open. The Priest sets the Gospel Book on the lectern and stands before it. FIRST HOUR Priest: Blessed is our God, always, now, and forever and ever. All: Amen. Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! Heavenly King, Advocate, Spirit of Truth, Who are everywhere present and fill all things, Treasury of Blessings, Bestower of Life, come, and dwell with us; cleanse us of all that defiles us, and O Good One, save our souls. Holy God, Holy and Mighty, Holy and Immortal, have mercy on us. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Trinity most holy, have mercy on us. Cleanse us of our sins, O Lord; pardon our transgressions, O Master; look upon our weaknesses and heal them, O Holy One; for the sake of Your Name. Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed by Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Priest: For Yours is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. All: Amen. Lord, have mercy. (12) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Come, let us bow in worship before our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship before Christ, our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship and fall down before the very Lord, Jesus Christ, our King and God! The Priest and Deacon do the great incensation: the Gospel Book round about, the Holy Table, the Altar, the Icon Screen, the choirs, the people, and the whole temple. The clergy remain in the midst of the temple until the conclusion of the Gospel lesson at the Ninth Hour. The Reader(s) chant the following Psalms: Psalm 5 To my words give ear, O Lord, give heed to my groaning. Attend to the sound of my cries, my King and my God. It is you whom I invoke, O Lord. In the morning you hear me; in the morning I offer you my prayer, watching and waiting. You are no God who loves evil; no sinner is your guest. The boastful shall not stand their ground before your face. You hate all who do evil: you destroy all who lie. The deceitful and bloodthirsty man the Lord detests. But I through the greatness of your love have access to your house. I bow down before you holy temple, filled with awe. Lead me, Lord, in your justice, because of those who lie in wait; make clear your way before me. No truth can be found in their mouths, their heart is all mischief, their throat a wide-open grave, all honey their speech. Declare them guilty, O God. Let them fail in their designs. Drive them out for their many offenses; for they have defied you. All those you protect shall be glad and ring out their joy. You shelter them; in you they rejoice, those who love your name. It is you who bless the just man, Lord: you surround him with favour as with a shield. Psalm 44 My heart overflows with noble words. To the king I must speak the song I have made, my tongue as nimble as the pen of a scribe. You are the fairest of the children of men and graciousness is poured upon your lips: because God has blessed you for evermore. O mighty one, gird your sword upon your thigh; in splendour and state, ride on in triumph for the cause of truth and goodness and right. Take aim with your bow in your dread right hand. Your arrows are sharp, peoples fall beneath you. The foes of the king fall down and lose heart. Your throne, O God, shall endure for ever. A sceptre of justice is the sceptre of your kingdom. Your love is for justice; your hatred for evil. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness above other kings: your robes are fragrant with aloes and myrrh. From the ivory palace you are greeted with music. The daughters of kings are among your loved ones. On your right stands the queen in gold of Ophir. Listen, O daughter, give ear to my words: forget your own people and your father's house. So will the king desire your beauty: He is your lord, pay homage to him. And the people of Tyre shall come with gifts, the richest of the people shall seek your favour. The daughter of the king is clothed with splendour, her robes embroidered with pearls set in gold. She is led to the king with her maiden companions. They are escorted amid gladness and joy; they pass within the palace of the king. Sons shall be yours in place of your fathers: you will make them princes over all the earth. May this song make your name for ever remembered. May the peoples praise you from age to age. Psalm 45 God is for us a refuge and strength, a helper close at hand, in time of distress, so we shall not fear though the earth should rock, though the mountains fall into the depths of the sea; even though its waters rage and foam, even though the mountains be shaken by its waves. The Lord of hosts is with us: the God of Jacob is our stronghold. The waters of a river give joy to God’s city, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within, it cannot be shaken; God will help it at the dawning of the day. Nations are in tumult, kingdoms are shaken: he lifts his voice, the earth shrinks away. The Lord of hosts is with us: the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Come, consider the works of the Lord, the redoubtable deeds he has done on the earth. He puts an end to wars over all the earth; the bow he breaks, the spear he snaps. (He burns the shields with fire.) “Be still and know that I am God, supreme among the nations, supreme on the earth!” The Lord of hosts is with us: the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Reader: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. All: Now and forever and ever. Amen. Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia. Glory be to You, O God! (3) Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Troparion of the Pre-feast, Tone 4 Mary once, with aged Joseph, went to be taxed in Bethlehem,* for they were of the lineage of David;* and she bore in her womb the fruit that had not been sown.* The time of the birth was at hand and there was no room at the inn;* but the cave proved a fair palace for the Queen.* Christ is born,* that He may raise up again the image that before was fallen. Now and forever and ever. Amen. What shall we call you, O Full of grace? Heaven? For you made the Sun of righteousness to dawn. Paradise? For you made the flower of incorruption blossom. Virgin? For you remained incorrupt. Pure Mother? For you held in your holy embrace a Son who is the God of all. Implore Him that our souls may be saved. Stichera In Tone 8 Make ready, O Bethlehem:* let the manger be prepared, let the cave show its welcome!* The truth has come, the shadow has passed away.* Born of a Virgin, God has appeared to men,* formed as we are and making Godlike* the garment of our nature which He has put on.* Therefore Adam is renewed with Eve, and they call out:* “Your good pleasure has appeared on earth to save our race!” God comes from Teman, the Holy One from the mountain overshadowed by the forest. Make ready, O Bethlehem:* let the manger be prepared, let the cave show its welcome!* The truth has come, the shadow has passed away.* Born of a Virgin, God has appeared to men,* formed as we are and making Godlike* the garment of our nature which He has put on.* Therefore Adam is renewed with Eve, and they call out:* “Your good pleasure has appeared on earth to save our race!” In Tone 3 O Lord, I have heard Your renown and feared, O Lord, Your work. Now the prophecy is about to be fulfilled.* It mystically said, “And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, who are preparing in a cave:* you are by no means the least among the princes of Judah,* since from you shall come for me in the flesh a Ruler,* Christ our God, born of a Virgin;* and He is to shepherd His people, the new Israel!”* Let us all give Him glory! O Lord, I have heard the report of You and was afraid. Now the prophecy is about to be fulfilled.* It mystically said, “And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, who are preparing in a cave:* you are by no means the least among the princes of Judah,* since from you shall come for me in the flesh a Ruler,* Christ our God, born of a Virgin;* and He is to shepherd His people, the new Israel!”* Let us all give Him glory! In Tone 8, Glory… Now... Joseph spoke to the Virgin in this way:* “What is this that I see happening in you, O Mary?* I fail to understand and I am amazed! My mind is struck with dismay!* Leave my sight therefore, with all speed!* What is this which I see you in, O Mary?* Instead of honour, you have brought me shame!* Instead of gladness, sorrow! Instead of praise, rebuke!* No longer can I bear the reproach of men!* I was married to you by the priests in the Temple as one blameless before the Lord:* and what is this that I now see?” Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Deacon: Wisdom! Let us be attentive! Reader: The Prokeimenon in the Fourth Tone. The Lord said to me: You are My Son. It is I who have begotten You this day. All: The Lord said to me: You are My Son. It is I who have begotten You this day. verse: Ask and I shall bequeath you the nations, put the ends of the earth in your possession. Old Testament Reading Deacon: Wisdom! Reader: A reading from the prophecy of Micah. Deacon: Let us be attentive! Reader: Thus says the LORD: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting.” Therefore He shall give them up, until the time that she who is in labour has given birth; then the remnant of His brethren shall return to the children of Israel. And He shall stand and feed His flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD His God; and they shall abide, for now He shall be great to the ends of the earth. (5:2-4) Epistle Deacon: Wisdom! Reader: A reading from the epistle of the holy apostle Paul to the Hebrews. Deacon: Let us be attentive! Reader: Brothers and Sisters: God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. For to which of the angels did He ever say: “You are My Son, today I have begotten You”? And again: “I will be to Him a Father, and He shall be to Me a Son”? But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: “Let all the angels of God worship Him.” And of the angels He says: “Who makes His angels spirits and His ministers a flame of fire.” But to the Son He says: “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions.” And: “You, LORD, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands. They will perish, but You remain; and they will all grow old like a garment; like a cloak You will fold them up, and they will be changed. But You are the same, and Your years will not fail.” (1:1-12) Gospel Deacon: Wisdom! Stand aright! Let us listen to the holy Gospel. Priest: Peace be with all. All: And with your spirit. Priest: A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew. All: Glory be to You, O Lord, glory be to You. Priest: Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name Jesus. (1:18-25) All: Glory be to You, O Lord, glory be to You. Reader: Direct my steps according to Your word, and let no iniquity control me. Deliver me from people’s slander, and I shall keep Your commandments. Let Your face shine on Your servant, and teach me Your statutes. Let my mouth be filled with Your praise, O Lord, that I may hymn Your glory, and sing Your splendour all the day! Reader: Holy God, Holy and Mighty, Holy and Immortal, have mercy on us. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Trinity most holy, have mercy on us. Cleanse us of our sins, O Lord; pardon our transgressions, O Master; look upon our weaknesses and heal them, O Holy One; for the sake of Your Name. Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed by Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Priest: For Yours is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. All: Amen. Kontakion of the Pre-feast, Tone 3 Today the Virgin comes to the cave* to give birth ineffably to the pre-eternal Word.* Hearing this, be of good cheer, O inhabited earth,* and with the angels and the shepherds glorify Him whose will it was* to be made manifest a young Child - the pre-eternal God! All: Lord, have mercy. (40) Prayer of the Hours Priest: In every season and at every hour, in heaven and on earth You are worshipped and glorified, O good God, longsuffering, rich in mercy, loving the just and compassionate to sinners, calling all to salvation by the promise of the blessings to come; now at this very hour, Lord, accept our prayers, and direct our lives in the ways of Your commandments. Sanctify our souls, purify our bodies, correct our thoughts, and make our knowledge whole and sober. Deliver us from every distress, evil, and pain. Surround us with Your holy angels as with a rampart so that protected and guided by their host we may reach the unity of the faith and the knowledge of Your unapproachable glory; for You are blessed for ever and ever. All: Amen. Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory to the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. More honourable than the cherubim and by far more glorious than the seraphim; ever a virgin, you gave birth to God the Word; O true Mother of God, we magnify you! In the name of the Lord, Father, give the blessing. Priest: O God be gracious to us and bless us; make Your face to shine upon us and have mercy on us. All: Amen. Prayer of the First Hour Priest: O Christ, the true Light, You enlighten and sanctify everyone who comes into the world; let the light of Your countenance be signed upon us, that in it we may see Your unapproachable light. Direct our steps that we might fulfill Your commandments; through the prayers of Your immaculate Mother and of all Your saints. All: Amen. Third Hour Reader: Come, let us bow in worship before our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship before Christ, our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship and fall down before the very Lord, Jesus Christ, our King and God! Psalm 66 O God, be gracious and bless us and let your face shed its light upon us. So will your ways be known upon earth and all nations learn your saving help. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you. Let the nations be glad and exult for you rule the world with justice. With fairness you rule the peoples, you guide the nations on earth. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you. The earth has yielded its fruit for God, our God, has blessed us. May God still give us his blessing till the ends of the earth revere him. Psalm 86 On the holy mountain is his city cherished by the Lord. The Lord prefers the gates of Sion to all Jacob’s dwellings. Of you are told glorious things, O city of God! “Babylon and Egypt I will count among those who know me; Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia, these will be her children and Sion shall be called ‘Mother’ for all shall be her children.” It is he, the Lord Most High, who gives each his place. In his register of peoples he writes: “These are her children,” and while they dance they will sing: “In you all find their home.” Psalm 50 Have mercy on me, God, in your kindness. In your compassion blot out my offense. O wash me more and more from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. My offenses truly I know them; my sin is always before me Against you, you alone, have I sinned; what is evil in your sight I have done. That you may be justified when you give sentence and be without reproach when you judge, O see, in iniquity I was born, a sinner was I conceived. Indeed you love truth in the heart; then in the secret of my heart teach me wisdom. O purify me, then I shall be clean; O wash me, I shall be whiter than snow. Make me hear rejoicing and gladness, that the bones you have crushed may thrill. From my sins turn away your face and blot out all my iniquity. A pure heart create for me, O God, put a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, nor deprive me of your holy spirit. Give me again the joy of your salvation; with a spirit of fervour sustain me, that I may teach transgressors your ways and sinners may return to you. O rescue me, God, my helper, and my tongue shall ring out your goodness. O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise. For in sacrifice you take no delight, burnt offering from me you would refuse, my sacrifice, a contrite spirit, a humbled, contrite heart you will not spurn. In your goodness, show favour to Sion: rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Then you will be pleased with lawful sacrifice, (burnt offerings wholly consumed), then you will be offered young bulls on your altar. Reader: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. All: Now and forever and ever. Amen. Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia. Glory be to You, O God! (3) Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Troparion of the Pre-feast, Tone 4 Mary once, with aged Joseph, went to be taxed in Bethlehem,* for they were of the lineage of David;* and she bore in her womb the fruit that had not been sown.* The time of the birth was at hand and there was no room at the inn;* but the cave proved a fair palace for the Queen.* Christ is born,* that He may raise up again the image that before was fallen. Now and forever and ever. Amen. O Mother of God, you are the true vine, from whom blossomed the fruit of life; we implore you, O Lady, intercede together with the holy apostles that He may have mercy on our souls. Stichera In Tone 6 This is our God: no other is to be compared to Him.* Born of a Virgin, He is coming to dwell among men.* Laid in a poor manger, the Only-Begotten Son appears as a mortal man* and the Lord of Glory is wrapped in swaddling clothes.* A star guides the Magi to come and worship Him;* and we sing: “O Holy Trinity, save our souls!” God comes from Teman the Holy One from the mountain overshadowed by the forest. This is our God: no other is to be compared to Him.* Born of a Virgin, He is coming to dwell among men.* Laid in a poor manger, the Only-Begotten Son appears as a mortal man* and the Lord of Glory is wrapped in swaddling clothes.* A star guides the Magi to come and worship Him;* and we sing: “O Holy Trinity, save our souls!” In Tone 8 O Lord, I have heard Your renown and feared, O Lord, Your work. Before Your birth, O Lord, the angelic hosts* looked with awe on this mystery and were filled with wonder:* for You Who adorned the vault of heaven with stars* have decided to be born as a Child.* You Who hold the whole earth in the palm of Your hand,* will be laid in the manger of dumb beasts.* By this plan of salvation, Your compassion has been made known, O Christ,* and Your great mercy:* Glory to You! In Tone 3 Glory… Now… Joseph, how can you bring to Bethlehem, pregnant with child,* the Maiden whom you married in the sanctuary?* “I have searched the prophets and have been warned by an angel.* I am convinced that Mary will give birth to God in a way surpassing all understanding.* Magi shall come forth from the East to worship Him with precious gifts!”* O Lord, Who are taking flesh for our sake, glory to You! Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Deacon: Wisdom! Let us be attentive! Reader: The Prokeimenon in the Fourth Tone. For a Child is born to us; a Son is given us. All: For a Child is born to us;* a Son is given us. verse: All authority will be upon his shoulders. Old Testament Reading Deacon: Wisdom! Reader: A reading from the prophecy of Baruch. Deacon: Let us be attentive! Reader: This is our God; no other can be compared to him! He found the whole way to knowledge, and gave her to Jacob his servant and to Israel whom he loved. Afterward she appeared upon earth and lived among men. She is the book of the commandments of God, and the law that endures for ever. All who hold her fast will live, and those who forsake her will die. Turn, O Jacob, and take her; walk toward the shining of her light. Do not give your glory to another, or your advantages to an alien people. Happy are we, O Israel, for we know what is pleasing to God. (3:35-4:4) Epistle Deacon: Wisdom! Reader: A reading from the epistle of the holy apostle Paul to the Galatians. Deacon: Let us be attentive! Reader: Brothers and Sisters: before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. (3:23-29) Gospel Deacon: Wisdom! Stand aright! Let us listen to the holy Gospel. Priest: Peace be with all. All: And with your spirit. Priest: A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke. All: Glory be to You, O Lord, glory be to You. Priest: Now it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them. (2:1-20) All: Glory be to You, O Lord, glory be to You. Reader: Blessed is the Lord God, blessed is the Lord day by day; may the God of our salvation give us prosperity. Our God is the God who saves. Reader: Holy God, Holy and Mighty, Holy and Immortal, have mercy on us. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Trinity most holy, have mercy on us. Cleanse us of our sins, O Lord; pardon our transgressions, O Master; look upon our weaknesses and heal them, O Holy One; for the sake of Your Name. Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed by Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Priest: For Yours is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. All: Amen. Kontakion of the Pre-feast, Tone 3 Today the Virgin comes to the cave* to give birth ineffably to the pre-eternal Word.* Hearing this, be of good cheer, O inhabited earth,* and with the angels and the shepherds glorify Him whose will it was* to be made manifest a young Child - the pre-eternal God! All: Lord, have mercy. (40) Prayer of the Hours Priest: In every season and at every hour, in heaven and on earth You are worshipped and glorified, O good God, longsuffering, rich in mercy, loving the just and compassionate to sinners, calling all to salvation by the promise of the blessings to come; now at this very hour, Lord, accept our prayers, and direct our lives in the ways of Your commandments. Sanctify our souls, purify our bodies, correct our thoughts, and make our knowledge whole and sober. Deliver us from every distress, evil, and pain. Surround us with Your holy angels as with a rampart so that protected and guided by their host we may reach the unity of the faith and the knowledge of Your unapproachable glory; for You are blessed for ever and ever. All: Amen. Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory to the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. More honourable than the cherubim and by far more glorious than the seraphim; ever a virgin, you gave birth to God the Word; O true Mother of God, we magnify you! In the name of the Lord, Father, give the blessing. Priest: By the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ, our God, have mercy on us. All: Amen. Prayer of the Third Hour Priest: O God and Master, Father almighty, Lord, only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit, one Godhead, and one power, have mercy on me a sinner; and by the judgements which You know, save me Your unworthy servant; for You are blessed for ever and ever. All: Amen. Sixth Hour Reader: Come, let us bow in worship before our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship before Christ, our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship and fall down before the very Lord, Jesus Christ, our King and God! Psalm 71 O God, give your judgment to the king, to a king's son your justice, that he may judge your people in justice and your poor in right judgment. May the mountains bring forth peace for the people and the hills, justice. May he defend the poor of the people and save the children of the needy (and crush the oppressor). He shall endure like the sun and the moon from age to age. He shall descend like rain on the meadow, like raindrops on the earth. In his days justice shall flourish and peace till the moon fails. He shall rule from sea to sea, from the Great River to earth's bounds. Before him his enemies shall fall, his foes lick the dust. The kings of Tarshish and the sea coasts shall pay him tribute. The kings of Sheba and Seba shall bring him gifts. Before him all kings shall fall prostrate, all nations shall serve him. For he shall save the poor when they cry and the needy who are helpless. He will have pity on the weak and save the lives of the poor. From oppression he will rescue their lives, to him their blood is dear. (Long may he live, may the gold of Sheba be given him.) They shall pray for him without ceasing and bless him all the day. May corn be abundant in the land to the peaks of the mountains. May its fruit rustle like Lebanon; may men flourish in the cities like grass on the earth. May his name be blessed for ever and endure like the sun. Every tribe shall be blessed in him, all nations bless his name. Blessed be the Lord, God of Israel, who alone works wonders, ever blessed his glorious name. Let his glory fill the earth. Amen! Amen! Psalm 131 O Lord, remember David and all the many hardships he endured, the oath he swore to the Lord, his vow to the Strong One of Jacob. “I will not enter the house where I live nor go to the bed where I rest. I will give no sleep to my eyes, to my eyelids I will give no slumber till I find a place for the Lord, a dwelling for the Strong One of Jacob.” At Ephrata we heard of the ark; we found it in the plains of Yearim. “Let us go to the place of his dwelling; let us go to kneel at his footstool.” Go up, Lord, to the place of your rest, you and the ark of your strength. Your priests shall be clothed with holiness; your faithful shall ring out their joy. For the sake of David your servant do not reject your anointed. The Lord swore an oath to David; he will not go back on this word: “A son, the fruit of your body, will I set upon your throne. If they keep my covenant in truth and my laws that I have taught them, their sons also shall rule on your throne from age to age.” For the Lord has chosen Sion; he has desired it for his dwelling: “This is my resting-place for ever; here have I chosen to live. I will greatly bless her produce, I will fill her poor with bread. I will clothe her priests with salvation and her faithful shall ring out their joy. There David’s stock will flower; I will prepare a lamp for my anointed. I will cover his enemies with shame but on him my crown shall shine.” Psalm 90 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High and abides in the shade of the Almighty says to the Lord: “My refuge, my stronghold, my God in whom I trust!” It is he who will free you from the snare of the fowler who seeks to destroy you; he will conceal you with his pinions and under his wings you will find refuge. You will not fear the terror of the night nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the plague that prowls in the darkness nor the scourge that lays waste at noon. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand fall at your right, you, it will never approach; his faithfulness is buckler and shield. Your eyes have only to look to see how the wicked are repaid, you who have said: “Lord, my refuge!” and have made the Most High your dwelling. Upon you no evil shall fall, no plague approach where you dwell. For you has he commanded his angels, to keep you in all your ways. They shall bear you upon their hands lest you strike your foot against a stone. On the lion and the viper you will tread and trample the young lion and the dragon. Since he clings to me in love, I will free him; protect him for he knows my name. When he calls I shall answer: “I am with you,” I will save him in distress and give him glory. With length of life I will content him; I shall let him see my saving power. Reader: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. All: Now and forever and ever. Amen. Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia. Glory be to You, O God! (3) Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Troparion of the Pre-feast, Tone 4 Mary once, with aged Joseph, went to be taxed in Bethlehem,* for they were of the lineage of David;* and she bore in her womb the fruit that had not been sown.* The time of the birth was at hand and there was no room at the inn;* but the cave proved a fair palace for the Queen.* Christ is born,* that He may raise up again the image that before was fallen. Now and forever and ever. Amen. As we have no boldness because of our many sins, entreat the One born of you, Virgin Mother of God; for a Mother’s plea has great power to obtain the Master’s kindness. Do not despise the supplications of sinners, O all-pure one, for He is merciful, and able to save, He who even accepted to suffer for us. Stichera In Tone 1 Come, O Faithful!* Inspired by God, let us go to see the divine mercy that is revealed in Bethlehem.* Let us cleanse our minds and offer virtues in our lives instead of myrrh.* Let us prepare with faith to enter the Feast of the Nativity,* storing up treasure in our souls as we cry aloud:* “Glory in the highest to God in Trinity,* Whose good will is now being revealed to men;* in His love for mankind, He will set Adam free from the ancient curse!” God comes from Teman the Holy One from the mountain overshadowed by the forest. Come, O Faithful!* Inspired by God, let us go to see the divine mercy that is revealed in Bethlehem.* Let us cleanse our minds and offer virtues in our lives instead of myrrh.* Let us prepare with faith to enter the Feast of the Nativity,* storing up treasure in our souls as we cry aloud:* “Glory in the highest to God in Trinity,* Whose good will is now being revealed to men;* in His love for mankind, He will set Adam free from the ancient curse!” In Tone 4 O Lord, I have heard Your renown and feared, O Lord, Your work. Hear O Heavens! Give ear, O Earth!* Let the foundations be shaken,* and let trembling lay hold on the whole world!* For our God and Creator is clothing Himself in flesh.* The One Who fashioned the whole creation with His strong arm* will be seen in the womb of a woman whom He has formed.* How deep are the riches and the wisdom and the knowledge of God!* How inscrutable His judgements, how unsearchable His ways! In Tone 5, Glory… Now… Come, O People who belong to Christ!* Let us behold the wonders that strike and hold fast every mind with awe!* Let us sing praises with faith in reverent worship.* Today a Maiden, pregnant with Child,* comes to Bethlehem to give birth to the Lord.* The choirs of angels go before her.* Seeing these things, Joseph, her betrothed, cried out,* “What is this strange mystery in you, O Virgin?* How shall you bring forth a Child,* a Calf upon Whom a yoke has never been laid?” Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Deacon: Wisdom! Let us be attentive! Reader: The Prokeimenon in the Fourth Tone. Before the daystar, like the dew, I have begotten You! The Lord has sworn and He will not repent! All: Before the daystar, like the dew, I have begotten You! The Lord has sworn and He will not repent! verse: The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand!” Old Testament Reading Deacon: Wisdom! Reader: A reading from the prophecy of Isaiah. Deacon: Let us be attentive! Reader: The LORD spoke again to Ahaz, saying, “Ask a sign for yourself from the LORD your God; ask it either in the depth or in the height above.” But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, nor will I test the LORD!” Then he said, “Hear now, O house of David! Is it a small thing for you to weary men, but will you weary my God also? Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel. Curds and honey He shall eat, that He may know to refuse the evil and choose the good. For before the Child shall know to refuse the evil and choose the good, the land that you dread will be forsaken by both her kings. Moreover the LORD said to me, “Take a large scroll, and write on it with a man’s pen concerning Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz. And I will take for Myself faithful witnesses to record, Uriah the priest and Zechariah the son of Jeberechiah.” Then I went to the prophetess, and she conceived and bore a son. Then the LORD said to me, “Call his name Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz; for before the child shall have knowledge to cry ‘My father’ and ‘My mother,’ the riches of Damascus and the spoil of Samaria will be taken away before the king of Assyria.” Then the Lord said, “Be shattered, O you peoples, and be broken in pieces! Give ear, all you from far countries. gird yourselves, but be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, but be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, but it will come to nothing; speak the word, but it will not stand, for God is with us.” (7:10-16; 8:1-4, 9-10) Epistle Deacon: Wisdom! Reader: A reading from the epistle of the holy apostle Paul to the Hebrews. Deacon: Let us be attentive! Reader: Brothers and Sisters: Scripture says, “You, LORD, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands. They will perish, but You remain; and they will all grow old like a garment; like a cloak You will fold them up, and they will be changed. But You are the same, and Your years will not fail.” But to which of the angels has He ever said: “Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool?” Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation? Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away. For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him. (1:10-2:3) Gospel Deacon: Wisdom! Stand aright! Let us listen to the holy Gospel. Priest: Peace be with all. All: And with your spirit. Priest: A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew. All: Glory be to You, O Lord, glory be to You. Priest: After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not the least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’” Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.” When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way. (2:1-12) All: Glory be to You, O Lord, glory be to You. Reader: Let your mercies, O Lord, come quickly to our aid, for we are utterly poor; help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of Your name. O Lord, deliver us, and have mercy on our sins, for Your name’s sake. Reader: Holy God, Holy and Mighty, Holy and Immortal, have mercy on us. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Trinity most holy, have mercy on us. Cleanse us of our sins, O Lord; pardon our transgressions, O Master; look upon our weaknesses and heal them, O Holy One; for the sake of Your Name. Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed by Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Priest: For Yours is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. All: Amen. Kontakion of the Pre-feast, Tone 3 Today the Virgin comes to the cave* to give birth ineffably to the pre-eternal Word.* Hearing this, be of good cheer, O inhabited earth,* and with the angels and the shepherds glorify Him whose will it was* to be made manifest a young Child - the pre-eternal God! All: Lord, have mercy. (40) Prayer of the Hours Priest: In every season and at every hour, in heaven and on earth You are worshipped and glorified, O good God, longsuffering, rich in mercy, loving the just and compassionate to sinners, calling all to salvation by the promise of the blessings to come; now at this very hour, Lord, accept our prayers, and direct our lives in the ways of Your commandments. Sanctify our souls, purify our bodies, correct our thoughts, and make our knowledge whole and sober. Deliver us from every distress, evil, and pain. Surround us with Your holy angels as with a rampart so that protected and guided by their host we may reach the unity of the faith and the knowledge of Your unapproachable glory; for You are blessed for ever and ever. All: Amen. Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory to the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. More honourable than the cherubim and by far more glorious than the seraphim; ever a virgin, you gave birth to God the Word; O true Mother of God, we magnify you! In the name of the Lord, Father, give the blessing. Priest: By the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ, our God, have mercy on us. All: Amen. Prayer of the Sixth Hour Priest: O God and Lord of powers, Maker of all creation, in the compassion of Your incomprehensible mercy You sent Your only-begotten Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ, for the salvation of our race. Through His precious Cross He tore up the record of our sins, and triumphed over the principalities and powers of darkness. O loving Master, accept our supplications of thanksgiving and entreaty; and deliver us from destructive and dark transgression, and from all our foes, visible and invisible, who seek to harm us. Nail down our flesh through fear of You, and prevent our hearts from inclining towards words or thoughts of evil, but rather wound our souls with longing for You; that always gazing upon You and guided by the light that comes from You, seeing You the unapproachable and everlasting Light, we may unceasingly confess and thank You, the Father without beginning, with Your only-begotten Son and Your all-holy, good and life-giving Spirit, now and for ever and ever. All: Amen. Ninth Hour Reader: Come, let us bow in worship before our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship before Christ, our King and God! Come, let us bow in worship and fall down before the very Lord, Jesus Christ, our King and God! Psalm 109 The Lord’s revelation to my Master: “Sit on my right: your foes I will put beneath your feet.” The Lord will wield from Sion your sceptre of power: rule in the midst of all your foes. A prince from the day of your birth on the holy mountains; from the womb before the dawn I begot you. The Lord has sworn an oath he will not change. “You are a priest for ever, a priest like Melchizedek of old.” The Master standing at your right hand will shatter kings in the day of his wrath. He, the Judge of the nations, will heap high the bodies; heads shall be shattered far and wide. He shall drink from the stream by the wayside and therefore he shall lift up his head. Psalm 110 Alleluia! I will thank the Lord with all my heart in the meeting of the just and their assembly. Great are the works of the Lord, to be pondered by all who love them. Majestic and glorious his work, his justice stands firm for ever. He makes us remember his wonders. The Lord is compassion and love. He gives food to those who fear him; keeps his covenant ever in mind. He has shown his might to his people by giving them the lands of the nations. His works are justice and truth, his precepts are all of them sure, standing firm for ever and ever; they are made in uprightness and truth. He has sent deliverance to his people and established his covenant for ever. Holy his name, to be feared. To fear the Lord is the first stage of wisdom; all who do so prove themselves wise. His praise shall last for ever! Psalm 85 Turn your ear, O Lord, and give answer for I am poor and needy. Preserve my life, for I am faithful; save the servant who trusts in you. You are my God, have mercy on me, Lord, for I cry to you all the day long. Give joy to your servant, O Lord, for to you I lift up my soul. O Lord, you are good and forgiving, full of love to all who call. Give heed, O Lord, to my prayer and attend to the sound of my voice. In the day of distress I will call and surely you will reply. Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord; nor work to compare with yours. All the nations shall come to adore you and glorify your name, O Lord: for you are great and do marvellous deeds, you who alone are God. Show me, Lord, your way so that I may walk in your truth. Guide my heart to fear your name. I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart and glorify your name for ever; for your love to me has been great: you have saved me from the depths of the grave. The proud have risen against me; ruthless men seek my life; to you they pay no heed. But you, God of mercy and compassion, slow to anger, O Lord, abounding in love and truth, turn and take pity on me. O give your strength to your servant and save your handmaid’s son. Show me a sign of your favour that my foes may see to their shame that you console me and give me your help. Reader: Glory… All: Now and forever and ever. Amen. Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia. Glory be to You, O God! (3) Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Troparion of the Pre-feast, Tone 4 Mary once, with aged Joseph, went to be taxed in Bethlehem,* for they were of the lineage of David;* and she bore in her womb the fruit that had not been sown.* The time of the birth was at hand and there was no room at the inn;* but the cave proved a fair palace for the Queen.* Christ is born,* that He may raise up again the image that before was fallen. Now and forever and ever. Amen. O Good One, You were born of a Virgin for our sake and endured crucifixion; You despoiled death by death and as God revealed resurrection. Do not despise those whom You fashioned with Your own hand; show Your love for mankind, O Merciful One; accept the Mother of God who bore You as she intercedes for us, and save, O Saviour, a people in despair! Stichera In Tone 7 Herod was struck with amazement* when he saw the piety of the Magi.* Then, overcome with wrath,* he asked them when the Child was to be born.* Mothers lost their infants* and their babies were harvested by an untimely death;* breasts grew dry and sources of milk were stopped:* great was this calamity!* Therefore, O Faithful,* let us come together in holiness to worship the Nativity! God comes from Teman the Holy One from the mountain overshadowed by the forest. Herod was struck with amazement* when he saw the piety of the Magi.* Then, overcome with wrath,* he asked them when the Child was to be born.* Mothers lost their infants* and their babies were harvested by an untimely death;* breasts grew dry and sources of milk were stopped:* great was this calamity!* Therefore, O Faithful,* let us come together in holiness to worship the Nativity! In Tone 2 O Lord, I have heard Your renown and feared, O Lord, Your work. O Virgin, when Joseph went up the Bethlehem* distressed by sorrow, you said to him,* “Why are you downcast and troubled at seeing me pregnant?* Why do you not know the mystery which has come to pass in me?* Cast every fear aside and understand this strange marvel:* in my womb, God is coming down to earth for the sake of mercy* and He has taken flesh in me!* You shall see Him when he is born!* Filled with joy, you shall worship Him as your Creator!* The angels ceaselessly praise Him in song* and they glorify Him with the Father and the Holy Spirit!” The following is sung solemnly in the middle of the Temple. In Tone 6, Glory… Now… Today, He who holds the whole creation in the hollow of His hand is born of the Virgin.* He Whose Essence none can approach is wrapped in swaddling clothes as a mortal.* God, Who established the heavens at the beginning of time, lies in a manger.* He Who rained down manna on His people in the desert* is nourished on milk from His Mother’s breast.* The Bridegroom of the Church, Who called the Magi,* accepts their gifts as the Son of the Virgin.* We bow down and worship Your Nativity, O Christ!* We bow down and worship Your Nativity, O Christ!* We bow down and worship Your Nativity, O Christ!* Show us also Your divine Epiphany! Three prostrations Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Deacon: Wisdom! Let us be attentive! Reader: The Prokeimenon in the Fourth Tone. This man was born there. And of Sion they shall say, One and all were born in her! All: This man was born there. And of Sion they shall say, One and all were born in her! verse: His foundation upon the holy mountains the Lord loves Old Testament Reading Deacon: Wisdom! Reader: A reading from the prophecy of Isaiah. Deacon: Let us be attentive! Reader: Thus says the LORD: “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. and His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. (9:6-7) Epistle Deacon: Wisdom! Reader: A reading from the epistle of the holy apostle Paul to the Hebrews. Deacon: Let us be attentive! Reader: Brothers and Sisters: both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying: “I will declare Your name to My brethren; in the midst of the assembly I will sing praise to You.” And again, “I will put My trust in Him.” And again: “Here am I and the children whom God has given Me.” Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For indeed He does not give aid to angels, but He does give aid to the seed of Abraham. Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted. (2:12-18) Gospel Deacon: Wisdom! Stand aright! Let us listen to the holy Gospel. Priest: Peace be with all. All: And with your spirit. Priest: A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew. All: Glory be to You, O Lord, glory be to You. Priest: When the wise men had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.” When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.” Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying: “A voice was heard in Ramah, lamentation, weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.” Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, “He shall be called a Nazarene.” (2:13-23) All: Glory be to You, O Lord, glory be to You. The Priest, preceded by the Deacon, carries the Gospels through the Holy Doors. These and the veil are shut. Meanwhile, the Reader continues: Reader: For Your holy name’s sake do not utterly reject us, do not annul Your covenant, do not take Your mercy from us for the sake of Abraham, Your beloved, and for the sake of Isaac, Your servant, and Israel, Your holy one. Reader: Holy God, Holy and Mighty, Holy and Immortal, have mercy on us. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Trinity most holy, have mercy on us. Cleanse us of our sins, O Lord; pardon our transgressions, O Master; look upon our weaknesses and heal them, O Holy One; for the sake of Your Name. Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed by Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Priest: For Yours is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. All: Amen. Kontakion of the Pre-feast, Tone 3 Today the Virgin comes to the cave* to give birth ineffably to the pre-eternal Word.* Hearing this, be of good cheer, O inhabited earth,* and with the angels and the shepherds glorify Him whose will it was* to be made manifest a young Child - the pre-eternal God! All: Lord, have mercy. (40) Prayer of the Hours Priest: In every season and at every hour, in heaven and on earth You are worshipped and glorified, O good God, longsuffering, rich in mercy, loving the just and compassionate to sinners, calling all to salvation by the promise of the blessings to come; now at this very hour, Lord, accept our prayers, and direct our lives in the ways of Your commandments. Sanctify our souls, purify our bodies, correct our thoughts, and make our knowledge whole and sober. Deliver us from every distress, evil, and pain. Surround us with Your holy angels as with a rampart so that protected and guided by their host we may reach the unity of the faith and the knowledge of Your unapproachable glory; for You are blessed for ever and ever. All: Amen. Lord, have mercy. (3) Glory to the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. More honourable than the cherubim and by far more glorious than the seraphim; ever a virgin, you gave birth to God the Word; O true Mother of God, we magnify you! In the name of the Lord, Father, give the blessing. Priest: O God be gracious to us and bless us; make Your face to shine upon us and have mercy on us. All: Amen. Prayer of the Ninth Hour Priest: Master, Lord Jesus Christ, our God, You have patiently endured our transgressions, and brought us to this hour in which hanging on the life-giving tree You showed the good Thief the way into Paradise and destroyed death by death. Have mercy also on us sinners, Your unworthy servants, for we have sinned and transgressed Your law and are not worthy to raise our eyes and look to the height of heaven; because we have abandoned the way of Your justice and walked in the willfulness of our hearts. But we implore Your unbounded goodness: spare us, O Lord, according to the multitude of Your mercy, and save us for Your holy name’s sake, for our days have been wasted in vanity. Rescue us from the hand of our opponent, forgive us our sins, slay our carnal will, that having put off the old man, we may put on the new, and live for You, our Master and benefactor; and that thus following Your precepts we may reach eternal rest, where all who rejoice have their dwelling. For You indeed are the true joy and gladness of those who love You, Christ our God, and to You we give glory, together with Your Father who has no beginning, and Your all-holy, good and life-giving Spirit, now and always and for ever and ever. All: Amen. Dismissal Priest: Glory be to You, Christ God, our hope, glory be to You! All: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Lord, have mercy. (3) Give the blessing. Priest: May Christ, our true God, have mercy on us and save us, through the prayers of His most pure Mother, of the holy, glorious, and all-praiseworthy Apostles, and of all the Saints, for He is good and the Lover of Mankind. All: Amen. A lit candle is placed in the centre of the temple. All gather before it for the singing of the Troparion, Tone 4: Bethlehem, make ready, for Eden has been opened for all.* Ephrathah, be alert, for the Tree of Life has blossomed forth from the Virgin in the cave.* Her womb has become a spiritual paradise* wherein fruit was planted,* and if we eat of it we shall live and not die like Adam.* Christ is coming forth to bring back to life ** the likeness that had been lost in the beginning.:

Dec 23, 2024 - Forefeast of the Nativity of Christ; The Ten Holy Martyrs of Crete.

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 23, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no psalms chanted this evening. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. With uprightness of mind let us chant the hymns of the forefeast of the nativity of Christ;* for, though equal in honour to the Father and the Spirit,* in His lovingkindness He has clothed Himself in our matter* that He might be born in the city of Bethlehem.* His ineffable nativity have the shepherds and angels hymned. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Let us shout to the sound of cymbals, let us cry aloud in hymns:* The advent of Christ has come!* The predictions of the prophets have been fulfilled!* For Him of whom they foretold that He would appear to men in the flesh* is born in the holy cave and lies as a babe in the manger;* He is wrapped in swaddling-bands as a babe. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Prepare yourself, O Bethlehem!* O Eden, be now opened!* The most holy one comes to give birth!* Let the heavens be glad! Let men leap for joy!* He who is our rich Life comes in the magnitude of His mercy* to the manger and the cave,* assuming the poverty of Adam without change or confusion. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. With sacred laudations let us praise aloud today* the ten divinely called, the lamps ten times radiant,* illumining the fullness of the Church with divine effulgence,* the unshakable pillars, the luminous stars, who have rendered the earth heavenly* by the splendours of their magnificent struggles. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Let Theodulus be praised with Zoticus and Pompey,* Basilides, Euporus, Agathopus and Satorninus,* Gelasius and the divine Evaristus,* and with them also let Eunician be honoured with hymns:* the right calm havens for the tempest-tossed,* who denounced falsehood and have received the crown of victory. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Let us render honour to the ten holy passion-bearers, the offspring of Crete,* the foundations of the Church, the imperishable adornments of the faithful,* the precious and fragrant flowers of paradise,* the beautiful sacrifices acceptable to Christ,* the offerings of the temple of heaven. Tone 3, Glory… On this day of festal preparation has the feast of the martyrs dawned,* preparing us for the day of the nativity of the Sun who shines forth from the Son,* heralding God who has appeared from the Virgin in the flesh.* The ten martyrs who suffered mightily in Crete have received crowns from heaven.* To them let us cry aloud: O holy martyrs, O choir elect in holiness,* entreat Christ in behalf of those who with faith celebrate your most honoured memory! Now… Adorn yourself well, O Bethlehem, for Eden has been opened!* Prepare yourself, O Ephratha, for Adam has been restored, and Eve with him:* for the curse has been annulled, salvation has blossomed forth,* and the souls of the righteous are adorned,* offering hymnody instead of myrrh as their gift,* and receiving salvation of soul and incorruption.* For, lo! He who lies in the manger* orders those who cry out to chant unceasingly in spirit:* Glory be to You, O Lord! Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 6 In manner past understanding the boundless wisdom of God* has made Himself a house from the Virgin,* and incomprehensibly desires to be born in the flesh in the cave,* and laid in a manger of dumb beasts. God shall come forth out of Teman, and the Holy One out of a mountain overshadowed and densely wooded. You revealed Yourself to the prophets* as far as they were able to behold You, the Creator, O Christ;* but in latter times You showed Yourself to all men,* becoming man in the city of Bethlehem. O Lord, I have heard Your report, and I was afraid; O Lord, I considered Your works, and I was amazed. The star made its transit, heralding Christ, the Sun of righteousness,* to those who observed the stars,* and in the city of Bethlehem the angels now announce glad tidings to the shepherds.* With them let us also hasten. O divinely wise. Tone 2, Glory… Today Crete celebrates the forefeast of the nativity of Christ* at the memorial of the passion-bearers.* Wherefore, through their supplications, O Lord, save our souls! Now… Behold, the time of our salvation has drawn nigh!* Make ready, O cave: the Virgin comes to give birth!* O Bethlehem, land of Judah, adorn yourself and be glad,* for from you has our Lord shone forth!* Hearken, mountains and hills, and lands of Judea round about, for Christ comes forth,* that He might save man whom He created, in that He loves mankind. Troparia Tone 3 Let us express our great admiration for Crete which brought forth these precious Christians,* pearls of Christ and offspring of martyrs, and in particular, these blessed Ten.* Although they were few, they overcame all the guile of powerful demons.* Therefore, these valiant martyrs of Christ have been crowned. Tone 4, Glory… Now… Bethlehem, make ready, for Eden has been opened for all.* Ephrathah, be alert, for the Tree of life has blossomed forth from the Virgin in the cave.* Her womb has become a spiritual paradise* wherein the divine Fruit was planted,* and if we eat of it we shall live and not die like Adam.* Christ is coming forth to bring back to life* the likeness that had been lost in the beginning. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Bethlehem, make ready, for Eden has been opened for all.* Ephrathah, be alert, for the Tree of life has blossomed forth from the Virgin in the cave.* Her womb has become a spiritual paradise* wherein the divine Fruit was planted,* and if we eat of it we shall live and not die like Adam.* Christ is coming forth to bring back to life* the likeness that had been lost in the beginning. Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 3: Today, the Virgin is on her way to the cave* where she will give birth in a manner beyond understanding* to the Word who is in all eternity.* Rejoice, therefore, O universe, when you hear it heralded.* With the angels and the shepherds, glorify Him who chose to be seen as anew born babe* while remaining God in all eternity. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle James 2:14-26 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Mark 10:46-52 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Dec 22, 2024 - Sunday before the Nativity of Christ. Sunday of the Holy Fathers. Octoechos Tone 6. Forefeast of the Nativity of Christ; The Holy Great-Martyr Anastasia.

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 22, 2024 Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY NIGHT Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 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. 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 had 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. 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. Let Your 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. Tone 6 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The Never-setting Sun is coming from the Virginal womb* to enlighten everyone under the sun.* Let us meet Him with pure hearts and with good works.* Let us prepare ourselves now through the Holy Spirit* to greet Him who is coming to His own people* as He Himself had willed.* He is being born in Bethlehem* so that through His compassion* He might bring back all of those* who were exiled from life in Paradise. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. He who is carried by the Cherubim* has taken human nature in the abode of the Immaculate womb.* He has come to earth to be born of the tribe of Judah.* The holy cave has been adorned* like a splendid palace for the King of all;* the manger, like a ruby throne.* The Virgin will place the Child into it* for the renewal of His boundless creation. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Having conceived in a manner beyond understanding,* the Virgin places You into the manger of the dumb animals,* O eternal Word of God,* because You come to pardon the ignorance* that I acquired through the envy of the serpent.* You come to be wrapped in swaddling clothes* in order to break the chains and the fetters of my sins.* Only-blessed One and Lover of mankind,* I most joyfully glorify, extol, and adore You* and Your coming in the flesh;* for through You have I been freed. Tone 8 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. 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. 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 with sublime 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. 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. Now… O Cave, prepare yourself to receive the Mother* who bears Christ within her womb.* O Manger, receive the Word Who destroyed the sins of all.* O Shepherds, keep watch and then bear witness to the awesome wonder.* O Magi, come from Persia,* and bring your gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the King.* For the Lord has appeared from a virgin Mother;* yet she bowed to Him as a servant* and spoke to Him within her bosom, saying:* How were You conceived in me?* How did You grow in me, my God and Saviour? 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. Readings (1) Genesis 14:14-20; (2) Deuteronomy 1:8-11, 15-17; (3) Deuteronomy 10:14-21 Aposticha Tone 6 O Christ our Saviour,* the angels in heaven sing the praises of Your resurrection;* make us on earth also worthy* to extol and glorify 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 our 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 own 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. 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 to the world* and to save our souls. Now… Behold, the time of salvation is drawing near.* O Cave, prepare yourself,* for the Virgin is coming to give birth.* O Bethlehem, O land of Judah,* adorn yourself and be happy* since the Lord will shine forth from you.* O mountains and hills and lands around Judah,* hearken, for Christ is coming that He may save His creation* because He is the Lover of mankind. Troparia Tone 6 Angelic powers were upon Your tomb* and the guards became like dead men;* Mary stood before Your tomb* seeking Your most pure body.* You captured Hades without being overcome by it.* You met the Virgin and granted life.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory be to You! 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. Tone 4, Now… Bethlehem, make ready, for Eden has been opened for all. * Ephrathah, be alert, for the Tree of Life has blossomed forth from the Virgin in the cave. * Her womb has become a spiritual paradise * wherein the divine Fruit was planted, * and if we eat of it we shall live and not die like Adam. * Christ is coming forth to bring back to life * the likeness that had been lost in the beginning. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 6 Troparia, Tone 6 Angelic powers were upon Your tomb* and the guards became like dead men;* Mary stood before Your tomb* seeking Your most pure body.* You captured Hades without being overcome by it.* You met the Virgin and granted life.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory be to You! (2) 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. Tone 4, Now… Bethlehem, make ready, for Eden has been opened for all. * Ephrathah, be alert, for the Tree of Life has blossomed forth from the Virgin in the cave. * Her womb has become a spiritual paradise * wherein the divine Fruit was planted, * and if we eat of it we shall live and not die like Adam. * Christ is coming forth to bring back to life * the likeness that had been lost in the beginning. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 6 While the tomb lay open and Hades lamented,* Mary, cried to the Apostles who were in hiding saying:* “Come forth, you workers of the vineyard,* proclaim to the world the word of the Resurrection,* for the Lord is risen,* granting the world His great mercy!” Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. Mary Magdalene stood by Your tomb O Lord,* and mistaking You for the gardener,* weeping she cried aloud to You:* “Where have You hidden the Life eternal?* Where have You placed He who sits on the Cherubic Throne?* For those who were guarding Him have become as dead-men through fear.* Either give me my Lord or cry out with me:* O You who were numbered among the dead and have raised the dead,* glory be to You!” Glory… Now… Gideon foretold of your conception,* and David revealed your ineffable child-bearing, O Theotokos;* for the Word descended like a dew upon the fleece of your womb,* and you O Virgin full of grace,* like unto a holy and fertile earth,* budded forth without seed our salvation, Christ God. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 6 Life was laid in the tomb* and a seal was set upon the stone;* the soldiers stood guarding Christ like a sleeping King;* and having invisibly struck His foes the Lord arose. I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. Jonah foretold of Your tomb,* and Symeon revealed Your divine Arising, O immortal Lord;* for You descended as One dead into the tomb,* and having smashed the gates of Hades,* You arose without corruption as Master, for the salvation of all the world,* O Christ our God,* enlightening those lying in darkness. Glory… Now… O Virgin Theotokos, entreat your Son Christ our God,* who was willingly nailed upon the Cross,* and freed the world from deception,* that He have mercy upon our souls! Polyeleos Evoglitaria Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 8 With hymns let us all praise Abraham, Isaac and Jacob,* the meek David, Joshua, and the twelve patriarchs,* together with the three youths that quenched the fiery flame with the power of the Spirit.* And let us cry out to them:* Rejoice, you that bravely denounced the deception of the mad king!* Pray to Christ that He grant remission of offenses* to them that celebrate your holy memory with love. Glory… Now… From the bosom of the Father You came down,* and in Your ineffable condescension You took upon Yourself poverty like to ours,* in a manner surpassing nature, O Lover of mankind.* It was Your good pleasure to make Your abode in a cave, O Lord,* and like as a babe You are suckled at Your Mother’s breast, who are Creator and Lord.* The Magi, guided by the star, bring gifts to You and cry out:* Glory in the highest to God who comes to earth to be born as a man! N.B. But if this Sunday falls on either the 18th or the 19th of December, this Theotokion: Like the widow who gave two mites as an offering,* I offer you the praise of thanksgiving which is your due, O Mistress, for all your gifts;* for you are shown to be a shelter and aid,* ever rescuing me from temptations and tribulations.* Delivered from that which causes me grief,* as from the midst of a burning furnace, I cry out to you with all my heart:* O Theotokos, help me by entreating Christ God to grant me remission of transgressions,* for I, your servant, have you as my hope. Hypakoe, Tone 6 By Your voluntary and life-giving death, O Christ,* You shattered the gates of Hades,* and as God You opened to us the Paradise of old;* and by arising from the dead,* You delivered our lives from corruption. Gradual Hymns, Tone 6 Antiphon 1 Unto heaven I raise my eyes, even unto You, O Word;* have pity on me,* that I may live for You. Have mercy upon us who are filled with contempt O Word,* repairing Your broken vessels* that we may be found useful. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit is the cause of all salvation,* if He sees fit to breathe on one of His creatures,* He swiftly raises him from the things of this earth, and having given him wings,* makes him to flourish and raises him on high. Antiphon 2 If the Lord had not dwelt among us,* none could have withstood the attacks of the enemy,* for those who are victorious* are exalted by Him. Let not my soul be taken like a sparrow by their teeth, O Word;* Woe unto me!* How shall I, the lover of sin, be delivered from the power of the enemy? Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit all find divine inspiration,* goodness, understanding, peace, and blessing;* for He is equal in activity* to the Father and the Word. Antiphon 3 They that put their trust in the Lord look upon high* and are thus fearful to their foes* and wondrous to all mankind. Unto the pursuit of iniquities* the righteous stretch not the hands,* having You, O Saviour, as their helper. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit is sovereignty over all creation;* Him the armies of hosts above worship* and by everything that has breath below* is He worshiped. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 O Lord, stir up Your might* and come to save us. verse: O Shepherd of Israel, attend, You that lead Joseph like a sheep. Let everything that lives, Tone 6 Gospel John 20:19-31 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 6 Ode 1 Irmos: Israel, marching on foot in the sea as on the dry land,* saw Pharaoh the pursuer overthrown in the deep,* and raised a triumphant shout:* Let us sing to God a hymn of victory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Good Jesus, with your arms stretched wide upon the cross, you have fulfilled in all things the Father’s good pleasure; therefore let us all sing to you a hymn of victory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Death, the end of life, as a slave under orders, in fear approaches you, the Lord of life, whereby you award to us life without end and resurrection. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Pure one, who beyond understanding received your Creator, of his own will made flesh in your seedless womb, you are declared to be in truth creation’s sovereign Lady. Canon of the Forefeast 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 be to You, our God, glory be to You! The Virgin now comes to Bethlehem to give birth to Christ, who becomes a babe in the flesh; to Christ, who of His own will has beggared Himself; to Christ, who becomes visible. Let heaven and earth rejoice! Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! Leap up, you mountains and hills! Join chorus, you divinely eloquent prophets! You people and nations, clap your hands! Our salvation and Enlightenment, who is born in the city of Bethlehem, has nearly come. Most holy Theotokos, save us! God is known as man through the Virgin who has not known wedlock; He that is rich becomes poor, enriching them that, through malice, have been reduced to poverty. Let us all hymn Him with praises for He has been glorified. Canon to the Fathers Irmos: The children of them that were saved have hidden beneath the earth* Him that of old covered the pursuing tyrant with the waves of the sea;* but let us chant to the Lord like the maidens:* Gloriously has He been glorified! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Today the assembly of the divine fathers radiantly celebrates the forefeast of the nativity of Christ, and most glorious grace prefigures it, for Abraham and the children of the Law are an image thereof. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Of old the sacred Abraham received One of the tri-hypostatic Godhead, and now the Word of the Father, who is equally enthroned with Him, comes through the divine Spirit to the children, He that is gloriously praised. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! The children that cast down godlessness in the furnace are in number and faith images of the divine Trinity, and they have revealed to the world the hidden mysteries of God. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Abraham was delivered from the hands of the unrighteous, and the divine youths and Daniel the prophet were once saved from the flame of the furnace and from the den of wild beasts. We now celebrate the forefeast of the nativity of Christ. Glory… Now… O joyous and unwedded Mother, incorrupt Virgin, we bless you, for you blossomed forth from the generation of Abraham and the tribe of David, and gave birth to Christ, who of old was foretold by the prophets. 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: None is holy but you, O Lord my God,* the one who is the Good;* you have exalted the horn of your faithful people,* and founded them on the rock of their confession of you. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Creation, seeing God crucified in the flesh, was dissolving in fear, but by the strong hand of the Crucified it was firmly held together. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Sorry death, destroyed by death, lies lifeless; unable to withstand the God-filled assault of Life, the strong one dies. And so to all is given resurrection. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O pure one, the wonder of your divine child-bearing surpasses the laws of nature: marvellous was your conceiving of God in your womb, and marvellous the birth and your abiding virginity. Canon of the Forefeast 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 be to You, our God, glory be to You! In a manner beyond understanding, He that was born of the Father before the ages has become incarnate of the Virgin in latter times, as He Himself knew, wishing to renew humanity which had become corrupt through the counsel of the evil serpent. Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! The unoriginate Son of God, who is enthroned with the Father and the Spirit in the highest, beholding human nature which had been humbled, accepts a beginning and wishes to be born in the flesh as man. Most holy Theotokos, save us! She that is more holy than the angels and all creation now gives birth without seed to the Angel of Great Counsel in the flesh, for the restoration of all that unceasingly chant to Him: Holy are You, O Lord! Canon to the Fathers Irmos: Beholding You who suspended the whole earth without support upon the waters,* Yourself hanging upon Golgotha,* creation was seized with great awe, crying out:* None is holy save You, O Lord! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Faithfully preserving the glory of the image and likeness of God, with the fire of the Spirit the children, as champions, extinguished the fire of the golden image, chanting: We know but one Lord! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! The captive children, clothed with the wisdom and power of the Spirit, put to shame the wise men of Babylon and boldly cried out: None is holy save You, O Lord, Lover of mankind! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! The Law rejoices and joins chorus with the children and the prophets and exults today before the divine advent of the Lord. And Abraham rejoices for from his seed has the incarnate Lord appeared. Glory… Now… A conception without pain, an acceptance of your birthgiving has transpired in manner beyond recounting, O Theotokos, for the Word of God, who is God and was proclaimed by the prophets, has shown Himself to be a mystery beyond nature. 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! Hypacoe, Tone 4 An Angel bedewed the children in the furnace,* and has now put an end to the lamentation of the myrrh-bearing women, saying:* Why bring myrrh? Whom do you seek in the tomb?* Christ God is arisen, for He is the life and salvation of the human race! Kontakion, Tone 1 Rejoice, O Bethlehem, and be ready, O Ephrathah. * Behold, the virgin is on her way to give birth * to the great Shepherd whom she carried in her womb. * The God-bearing ancestors will rejoice at his sight, * and together with the shepherds * they will glorify the virgin nursing Him. Ikos Beholding the splendid radiance of thy birthgiving, O Virgin, the God-loving Abraham, the ever-memorable Isaac, Jacob, and all the divinely assembled choir of saints rejoice, and, with joyous utterances, they lead creation forth to meet you; for you are shown to be the mediatress of joy for all, having conceived in your womb Him that once was seen in Babylon, who preserved unconsumed the youths that had been cast unjustly into the furnace, and who showed you forth in manner past all comprehension. The young maidens chant to Him that is borne in your arms, hymning you as the nursing Virgin. Ode 4 Irmos: Christ, my strength, my God, my Lord,* most fittingly your holy Church keeps festival,* singing, dancing, crying out with pure minds,* feasting in the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Truly, O Christ, the tree of life has blossomed for the cross, planted in the earth, fed with blood and water from your pure side, has put forth life for us. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. No more the serpent’s lying whisper: You shall be like God; for Christ, divine Creator of man’s nature, now has opened out before me, with none to hinder, the pathway of life. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Ever-virgin Mother of God, truly beyond speech and incomprehensible to heaven and to earth are the mysteries of your God-befitting child bearing. Canon of the Forefeast 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 be to You, our God, glory be to You! You have given rise to a staff from the root of Jesse, O Virgin, putting forth the unfading Blossom of the Creator of all, who as God adorns with flowers all the earth, which cries aloud to Him: Glory to Your power, O Lord! Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! O Word of God, You have come to edify me, who have been despoiled through evil food and dragged down in mind and made like to dumb beasts; and, becoming a Babe, You lay down in a manger of dumb beasts. Glory to Your power, O Lord! Most holy Theotokos, save us! O Jesus, Habakkuk foresaw You incarnate of the Virgin, the mountain overshadowed, breaking down the mountains and hills of evil, and giving over to utter destruction the arrogance of the evil one and the uprisings of the demons. Canon to the Fathers Irmos: Foreseeing Your divine condescension upon the Cross, Habakkuk cried out in awe: You have cut down the dominion of the mighty, O Good One, entering into fellowship with them that are in Hades, as You are Almighty. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Let us honour Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as the first-fruits of the fathers, for from their seed has Christ shown forth incarnate of the Virgin, in that He is almighty. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Indicating the coming events of the descent of Christ to all, Daniel clearly showed forth lions as sheep, for, as a prophet of God, he foresaw the future. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Not attracted by the poison of sin, O children, you were delivered from the flame; for, being of wisdom more pure than gold, you were not melted in the furnace of deception. Glory… Now… O honoured and all-pure one, your Offspring, who surpasses nature, is proclaimed aloud to be the expectation of the nations and the salvation of the world. And today the multitude of the fathers hymn Him. 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: Shine with your divine splendour, I pray you, O you who are good,* on the souls of those who rise early to you* and long to know you, O Word of God,* as in truth the God who calls them back from sin’s deep darkness. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Now the Cherubim withdraw from me, and the flaming sword is turned back at sight of you, O Word of God, in truth the God who makes for the Thief the path to Paradise. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. I fear no longer the return to the dust, Lord Christ, for in your great mercy through your resurrection you have led me, forgotten, from the dust to the heights of incorruption. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O good Lady of the world, keep safe those who from the heart confess you God-bearer, for we have gained you, true Mother of God, for our invincible protection. Canon of the Forefeast 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 be to You, our God, glory be to You! The most perfect Son of God, the Master by nature, in His lovingkindness was well pleased to be called the Son of man and reckoned among slaves, O most Compassionate One. Willingly beggaring Yourself, You come to be born in a cave, O All-good One. Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! O Christ our King, who are uncontainable by nature, how can a little cave receive You? How can a manger contain You, who comes in the flesh to Your own for our sake, from a Mother that knew not wedlock, that You might save them that have been estranged from You, O Lord? Most holy Theotokos, save us! The Shepherd’s ewe-lamb has come to give birth. Make ready, O holy cave! Make haste, you shepherds, to see the newborn Shepherd and Lamb! O Magi, prepare yourselves with gifts to worship Him as King in the flesh. Canon to the Fathers Irmos: Isaiah, rising at dawn out of the night* and beholding the unwaning Light of Your Theophany, O Christ,* which has mercifully come to pass for us, cried out:* The dead shall rise up* and they that are in the tombs shall arise,* and all born on earth shall rejoice! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Let us honour today the divine Daniel, of the race of Abraham, the first-fruit of the fathers, as a leader of the Law and of grace; for, as a prophet of God, he foretold the advent of Christ from the Virgin and goes forth to meet His divine nativity. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Clearly prefiguring through the Angel’s descent the coming of the Lord to us, the children of Abraham extinguished the furnace; and, rendering the flame dewy with their faith, they consumed the splendour of the golden image therein. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Through the Spirit, Daniel closed the mouths of the wild beasts in the pit; and, through grace, the children of Abraham quenched the strength of the fire. And, saved from corruption, they proclaim Christ who is born of the Virgin, entreating Him as the Deliverer of our salvation. Glory… Now… Revealing through the divine Spirit Your painless assumption of our nature, and keeping vigil in the Law of grace, O Lord, Isaiah cried out: From the race of Abraham and the tribe of Judah comes a Virgin, giving birth in the flesh without seed. 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: Watching life’s sea rising in the surging waves of temptations,* fast making for your calm harbour, I cry out to you:* Lead my life up from corruption,* O you of many mercies . Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Crucified, O Lord, by the nails which fastened you, you annulled the curse upon us; pierced in the side by the spear, you tore up the written scroll against Adam, and set the whole world free. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Deception tripped up Adam and brought him to the depth of Hell. But you, God and compassion by nature, came down to seek him and, lifting him up on your shoulders, raised him up with yourself. Most holy Theotokos, save us! All-holy Lady, who bore to mortal man his Lord and pilot, quieten the fearful and unresting tumult of my passions, and grant to my heart tranquillity. Canon of the Forefeast 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 be to You, our God, glory be to You! O Mistress, as you are a new heaven you come, that Christ, the Sun of glory, might shine forth in the flesh from your womb, as through a cloud, in the cave; for, in His boundless lovingkindness, He wishes splendidly to illumine all that are of this earth with rays of His own light. Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! You perceived our infirmity and misery, O compassionate Christ, and did not disdain us; but, without leaving the Father, you emptied Yourself and make Your abode in the womb of her that knew not wedlock, who now comes forth to give birth to You, without pain, in the cave. Most holy Theotokos, save us! You mountains and hills, fields and vales, people and generations, nations and every creature: exult, filled with divine gladness, for the deliverance of all, the Word of God, the Timeless One, who, in His lovingkindness, has come under time, comes with haste. Canon to the Fathers Irmos: Beholding the sea of life surging with the storm of temptations,* fleeing to Your calm haven I cry to You:* Lead up my life from corruption,* O most Merciful One! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Hospitable was the nature and exalted was the faith of Abraham the forefather. Receiving in image the divine mystery, he rejoiced, and, running before Christ, he now makes merry. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! The faith of the youths now holds creation subject by the gift of the Creator, for the all-devouring and shameless fire stood in awe of them that honour Jesus Christ, the Creator of fire. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Daniel the prophet, once closing the mouths of the lions in the pit, showed in godly manner that through the coming of Christ the savagery of the world is in harmony with divine peace. Glory… Now… O Mary, Mother who knew not man, from a virgin womb you gave birth to Christ, whom the prophets beheld in the Spirit; and the fathers who begot Him now join chorus before His nativity. 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 6 With His life-giving hand* Christ our God, the Giver of life,* raised all the dead from the murky abyss* and bestowed resurrection upon humanity.* He is for all the Saviour,* the resurrection and the life, and the God of all. Ikos O Giver of life, we sing and we worship your cross and your burial, for you entered Hell, O deathless one, as God of all power, and raising the dead with yourself and shattering the gates of Hell, as God you demolished the might of death. Therefore with love and with longing we who are born of the earth praise you as risen from the dead, overthrowing the might of the all-destroying foe, raising up all who believe in you, delivering the world from the stings of the serpent and us from the wiles of the enemy, as the one who alone possesses the power. Devoutly we sing, therefore, the praises of your resurrection, for by this, as God of all, you have saved us. Ode 7 Irmos: As falling dew the angel made the furnace to the holy children,* and the command of God burned the Chaldeans;* and the tyrant was convinced, crying aloud:* Blessed are you, the God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The sun lamenting your Passion, O Lord, drew darkness around him and the light of the day was darkened over the whole of the earth, which cried aloud: Blessed are you, the God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. At your descent, O Christ, the underworld was clothed in splendour; our first father, filled with gladness of heart, sprang up, dancing and crying out: Blessed are you, the God of our fathers. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Through you, O Virgin Mother, light has risen and joy to all the inhabited earth, for you gave birth to God the Creator of all; ask him for us, All-pure, to send down to your faithful people great mercy. Canon of the Forefeast 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 be to You, our God, glory be to You! The divine vine whereupon the incorrupt Cluster did ripen, draws nigh, coming to give birth to Him that pours forth the wine of gladness and waters us that cry out to Him: O God of our fathers, blessed are You! Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! The divine vial which bears within herself the fragrant Myrrh cometh to pour it out in the cave of Bethlehem, filling with mystic fragrance them that chant: O God of our fathers, blessed are You! Most holy Theotokos, save us! The tongs which Isaiah the prophet beheld of old coms, holding in her womb Christ, the divine Ember, which burns up all the fuel of sin and enlightens the souls of the faithful. Canon to the Fathers Irmos: O ineffable wonder!* He, that in the furnace delivered the venerable children from the flame,* is laid in the grave, dead and devoid of breath, for the salvation of us that chant:* O God, our Deliverer, blessed are You! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! O father Abraham, founder of your race, having begotten Christ in the flesh, you are clearly revealed by the Spirit as the father of nations, to the salvation of us that chant: O God, our Deliverer, blessed are You! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Your hymn of the inspired ones has put to shame them that utter soulless noises, for the youths, bodily trampling down unharmed the furnace which burned with fire, chant: O God, our Deliverer, blessed are You! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Of old, the prophet Daniel, gazing with spiritual vision, revealed the second coming of Christ, and he foretells the dreadful things which shall come to pass therein, crying out: O God, our Deliverer, blessed are You! Glory… Now… O strange wonder, known among the prophets and revealed of old to the fathers: a pure Virgin is come, wishing to give birth to the salvation of us that chant: O God, our Deliverer, blessed are You! 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: Dew from the flames you shed on the holy ones,* burning thus with water the sacrifice of the righteous.* All things, O Christ, you bring about according to your holy will;* we highly exalt you throughout the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Envy has finished its work on the people of the Jews: of old the slayers of the prophets now they are slayers of God; they set you upon the cross, O Word of God, you whom we highly exalt throughout the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Christ, without leaving the courts of Heaven you came to Hell. Together with yourself you awakened the whole man, lying m corruption, and he highly exalts you now throughout the ages. Most holy Theotokos, save us! From light you conceived the light-giving Word, ineffably you gave him birth, and are glorified. For the Holy Spirit dwelt in you, O Maid, and therefore we praise you throughout the ages. Canon of the Forefeast 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 be to You, our God, glory be to You! In gladness let us cry out with the angels: Glory to God in the highest! The Saviour is born! The Master comes, whom the star indicates! The Magi hasten to behold Him, a Babe in a manger! Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages! Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! Amongst slaves were You enrolled of Your own will, O Master, subjecting Yourself to the law of Caesar, that You might free mankind from slavery to the evil one, O most merciful God. Rejoicing, we chant: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages! Most holy Theotokos, saves us! O unoriginate Word, I bear You as a newborn Babe, although I have in no wise known man, said the Virgin, marvelling. Whom on earth can I name Your father? I know not. With all I chant to You: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages! Canon to the Fathers Irmos: Fall back in awe and fear, O heaven;* and let the foundations of the earth be shaken!* For, lo! He that dwells in the highest is numbered among the dead* and lodges as a stranger in a small tomb.* O children, bless; O priests, hymn;* O people, exalt Him supremely for all ages! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Prefiguring Your sacrifice, O Christ, Abraham, obedient to You, O Master, went forth with faith, wishing to sacrifice on the mountain the son whom he had begotten; but he returned with him, rejoicing and glorifying and exalting above all You, the Deliverer of the world. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! When You robed Yourself in ever-blazing flame as in a divine robe, O Christ, You utterly extinguished the fire for the three holy children, and by Your descent the dew has cried out to them that chant: O priests, hymn and exalt Him supremely forever! O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! The prophet Daniel is given to the lions as an unjust trial, but, through the precept of abstinence, in his piety he had the wild beasts as fellow fasters in the depths of the pit. Through his prayers and those of Abraham and the children, save them that hymn You in the world, O Christ! Glory… Now… The voices of the prophets faithfully proclaimed Him as Jesus Emmanuel, who comes in human form, God and man; and the Virgin Mary, without having known man, gives birth in the city of Bethlehem to a Son, the co-unoriginate Word, through the Holy Spirit. 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: No man can see God, on whom the ranks of angels dare not gaze;* but, through you, All-holy One, the Word made flesh is seen of mortal men.* Magnifying him with all the heavenly hosts,* we call you blessed. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Free from passions you remained, O Word of God, when you held converse with passions in the flesh. But having dealt to passion a Passion, you loosed man from his passions. For you alone are impassible and almighty, our Saviour. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Accepting the corruption of death, O Lord, you kept your body from tasting corruption, and your soul, life-giving, divine, was not left in Hell. But, as from sleep arising, you raised us up with yourself. Most holy Theotokos, save us! With pure lips we mortal men give glory to God the Father, to the Son with him without beginning, and we worship the inexpressible power, most glorious, of the All-holy Spirit; for you alone subsist almighty, undivided Trinity. Canon of the Forefeast 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. Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! O mysteries strange, awesome and most glorious: the Lord of glory has come to earth and, having beggared Himself, He has entered a cave in the flesh, seeking to restore Adam and to deliver Eve from her pangs. Glory be to You, our God, glory be to You! By Your swaddling clothes You loose the bonds of our sinful falls; by Your great poverty You enrich us all, O Compassionate One; and having been laid in a manger of dumb beasts You release men from irrational malice, O all-unoriginate Word of God. Most holy Theotokos, save us! The preaching of the prophets has reached the ends of the earth, for they foretold Him that was to come in the fullness of time; and He came and appeared incarnate of the pure Virgin; Him let us receive with a pure mind! Canon to the Fathers Irmos: Lament Me not, O Mother,* beholding in the tomb the Son whom you conceived in your womb without seed;* for I shall arise and be glorified,* and as God everlasting shall I exalt with glory them that magnify you with faith and love. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! Celebrating the feast of the fathers that were before the Law, let us honour Christ, who, in godly manner, is begotten of them in the flesh; for Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who, through faith, are proclaimers of the Spirit and grace, are shown to be the foundation of the prophets and the Law. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! God, who by the fire in the bush showed to Moses the godly mystery in manner past understanding, having descended into the fire for the children, showed the flame of the furnace to be dew through the fire of the Essence of His divinity. O holy Fathers, pray to God for us! The all-holy children, assembling with Abraham, and Daniel, the wondrous prophet of God, Isaac and Jacob, with Moses and Aaron, faithfully join chorus before the nativity of Christ, praying unceasingly that we be saved. Glory… Now… All of creation rejoices in your birth-giving, O Virgin, for Bethlehem has opened Eden to us. And, lo! delighting in the Tree of Life, we all earnestly cry out in faith: you have fulfilled our prayers, O Mistress! 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 Though the doors were locked, O Lord,* You entered and filled Your apostles with the Holy Spirit,* and breathing over them, You gave them Your peace.* You said to them: Whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven;* whose sins you bind, they are bound.* After eight days You showed Thomas Your hands and Your side.* With them, therefore, we cry to You: You are my Lord and my God! Glory… Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the elect of the patriarchs, the fathers before the Law, have shone forth like beacons, for all the prophets and the righteous shone forth from them like radiant lamps. With rays of honourable prophecy have they illumined all creation; and they earnestly pray to God in behalf of the world. Now… Wondrous has this been! The unblemished ewe-lamb, the granddaughter of Adam and David, giveth birth to the Lamb, the all-unoriginate Word, in the latter days, as is meet. The forefeast of her ineffable birthgiving do the multitude of the fathers celebrate fittingly. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 6 Your Cross, O Lord, is the life and resurrection of Your people,* and trusting in it we sing Your praises:* O our risen God, have mercy upon us. Your burial, O Master, opened Paradise to mankind,* and thus delivered from corruption we sing Your praises:* O our risen God, have mercy upon us. With the Father and the Spirit* let us hymn Christ risen from the dead,* and let us cry out to Him:* You are our life and resurrection, have mercy upon us. On the third day You arose from the tomb, O Christ, as it was written,* raising together with Yourself our Forefather;* therefore the race of mankind glorifies You, and hymns Your Resurrection. Tone 5 Lift up your voice, O Sion, truly divine city,* and proclaim the divine memory of the fathers,* honouring Abraham, Isaac, and the ever-memorable Jacob;* for, lo! we all magnify Judah and Levi,* the great Moses and the wondrous Aaron,* and we honour David, Joshua, and Samuel.* And weaving divine hymns into godly praise on the forefeast of Christ’s nativity,* we ask that we receive grace from Him,* and that He grant the world great mercy. Lift up your voice, O Sion, truly divine city,* and proclaim the divine memory of the fathers,* honouring Abraham, Isaac, and the ever-memorable Jacob;* for, lo! we all magnify Judah and Levi,* the great Moses and the wondrous Aaron,* and we honour David, Joshua, and Samuel.* And weaving divine hymns into godly praise on the forefeast of Christ’s nativity,* we ask that we receive grace from Him,* and that He grant the world great mercy. Blessed are You, O Lord, God of our fathers, and praised and glorified is Your name to the ages! O Elijah, who once rode upon a divine chariot of fire,* come forth, and you, O divinely wise Elisha;* and joining with Ezekiel and Hosea, rejoice!* O honoured and divinely inspired twelve prophets, join chorus,* and all you righteous, chant in hymns to the nativity of Christ;* O most blessed youths that quenched the flame of the furnace with the dew of the Spirit,* entreat Christ in our behalf,* that He send down upon our souls great mercy. For You are righteous in all which You have done for us. The Virgin Theotokos,* she who through the ages has been preached on earth by the prophets in their utterances,* she whom the wise patriarchs and the assemblies of the righteous proclaim,* with whom the comeliness of women joins chorus:* Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel and Hannah, together with the glorious Miriam, the sister of Moses.* With them all the ends of the world rejoice and all creation renders honour,* for the Creator and God of all comes to be born in the flesh* and to grant us great mercy. Tone 8, Glory… The compilation of the teachings of the Law* reveals the divine birth of Christ in the flesh* as being from them that, before the Law, proclaimed the glad tidings of grace* to them that lived beyond the Law.* In that this birth is the means of deliverance from corruption,* for the sake of the resurrection they declared to the souls held fast in Hades:* 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 6: Angelic powers were upon Your tomb* and the guards became like dead men;* Mary stood before Your tomb* seeking Your most pure body.* You captured Hades without being overcome by it.* You met the Virgin and granted life.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory be to You! Troparion, Tone 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.:

Dec 21, 2024 - Saturday before the Nativity of Christ. Holy Martyr Juliana of Nicomedia (284-305).

Sat, 21 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 21, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. “He is our God, and none other shall take His place!”* the prophet exclaimed in the Spirit;* “He has found every path of knowledge,* and thereby has made Himself like to men,* arraying Himself in flesh;* for He comes to be born of the divine Maiden and Virgin.* He who is unapproachable in essence* becomes accessible to me.” I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Your womb, O most immaculate Theotokos, is shown to be a bundle of flour,* ineffably bearing the uncultivated Wheat* in a manner past understanding and recounting.* You give birth in the cave of Bethlehem* to Him who will nurture all creation with divine understanding and grace,* and deliver mankind from soul-destroying famine. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The unblemished heifer, bearing the fatted Calf within her womb,* comes to the holy cave to give birth to Him in all-glorious manner,* to wrap Him as a man in swaddling bands,* and to lay Him in a manger as a babe.* Celebrate the forefeast, O creation,* joyfully magnifying Him who has wrought* such glorious things on earth. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Having dyed for yourself a robe of salvation* in the stain of your blood, O most lauded one,* and illumined yourself in spirit,* you betrothed yourself to the immortal King* who preserves you incorrupt and undefiled to the ages of ages,* as a virgin all-adorned and unsullied* in the mansions of heaven. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Having received wounds and been cast into the fire,* having endured the rending of your flesh,* and valiantly borne the boiling cauldron,* you were not vanquished in resolve, and did not sacrifice to graven images;* but, bowing your neck to death, you ascended to the heavens as a crown-bearer* through martyrdom by the sword. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Adorned with drops of your blood,* you were most manifestly resplendent,* like the sun, O most lauded martyr, Juliana,* and dispelled the gloom of ungodliness by grace;* and you have illumined the faithful who honour your valiant struggles and your splendid and radiant memory,* which is salvific for all. Tone 6, Glory… Hold festival, O Sion!* Be glad, O Jerusalem!* O city of Christ God, receive the Creator,* who is contained by the cave and the manger!* Open your gates to me, that, entering through them,* I may see Him who holds creation in His hand* wrapped as a babe in swaddling-bands,* whom the angels hymn with unceasing songs:* the Lord, the Bestower of life, who saves our race. 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! Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 2 The predictions of all the prophets are now fulfilled;* for Christ is born of the pure divine Maiden* in the city of Bethlehem. God shall come forth out of Teman,* and the Holy One out of a mountain overshadowed and densely wooded. O honoured Bethlehem, glory, joy and boast of mortal men,* divine metropolis:* receive your Creator. O Lord, I have heard Your report, and I was afraid;* O Lord, I considered Your works, and I was amazed. The Word of the Father, by whom all things came into being,* is seen as a single Hypostasis in two natures,* dispassionately and unchangeably. Tone 6, Glory… Now… O Virgin who knew not wedlock, from whence have you come?* Who gave birth to you? Who was your mother?* How is it you hold the Creator in your arms?* How is it that your womb has not experienced corruption?* O the all-glorious and awesome mysteries wrought in you,* which we see performed on earth, O most holy one!* On earth we prepare for you your due as is meet:* the cave; and from the heavens we ask that a star be given.* The magi come from the lands of the East to those of the West,* to behold the salvation of men wrapped in swaddling-bands* in the manger. Troparia Tone 4 Your lamb, Juliana, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy save our souls. Glory… Now… Bethlehem, make ready, for Eden has been opened for all.* Ephrathah, be alert, for the Tree of life has blossomed forth from the Virgin in the cave.* Her womb has become a spiritual paradise* wherein the divine Fruit was planted,* and if we eat of it we shall live and not die like Adam.* Christ is coming forth to bring back to life* the likeness that had been lost in the beginning. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Bethlehem, make ready, for Eden has been opened for all.* Ephrathah, be alert, for the Tree of life has blossomed forth from the Virgin in the cave.* Her womb has become a spiritual paradise* wherein the divine Fruit was planted,* and if we eat of it we shall live and not die like Adam.* Christ is coming forth to bring back to life* the likeness that had been lost in the beginning. Troparion, Tone 4: Your lamb, Juliana, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy save our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 3: Today, the Virgin is on her way to the cave* where she will give birth in a manner beyond understanding* to the Word who is in all eternity.* Rejoice, therefore, O universe, when you hear it heralded.* With the angels and the shepherds, glorify Him who chose to be seen as anew born babe* while remaining God in all eternity. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: We, all the faithful, have found your shrine to be a place of spiritual healing,* and we cry aloud to you: “O glorious virgin martyr, Juliana,* pray unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us!” Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Be glad in the Lord* and rejoice, you just. verse: Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. (Psalm 32:11,1) Epistle Galatians 3:8-12 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, but out of them all will he Lord deliver them. (Psalm 34:18,20) Gospel Luke 13:18-29 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 33:1):

Dec 20, 2024 - Forefeast of the Nativity of Christ; The Holy Hieromartyr Ignatius the Godbearer.

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 20, 2024 Nativity Fast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O people, let us celebrate the forefeast of the Nativity of Christ,* and lifting our thoughts up to Bethlehem, let us elevate ourselves in mind;* and with the eyes of our souls let us gaze upon the Virgin,* who comes to give birth in the cave to our Lord and God.* Joseph, beholding the magnitude of His miracles,* supposed that he beheld a man wrapped as a babe in swaddling-bands,* but perceived from the testimony of things that He was the true God,* who bestows great mercy upon 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. O people, let us celebrate the forefeast of the Nativity of Christ,* and elevating our minds to Bethlehem,* let us soar aloft in thought and behold the great mystery in the cave;* for Eden was opened when God issued forth from the pure Virgin,* being perfect in both divinity and manhood.* Let us cry aloud: O holy God, unoriginate Father!* O Holy and Mighty One, Son who became incarnate!* O holy Immortal One, comforting Spirit!* O Holy Trinity, glory be to You! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Hearken, O heaven, and give ear, O earth!* For, lo! the Son and Word of God of the Father* comes to be born of the Maiden who knew not man,* at the good pleasure of Him who begat Him in dispassion,* and with the cooperation of the Holy Spirit.* Prepare yourself, O Bethlehem!* Open thy gates, O Eden!* For the Author of all creation remains what He was before, yet takes form,* granting the world great mercy. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O blessed Ignatius, you were fittingly called God-bearer* when the Master, in His mercy, embraced you,* revealing to you the dogmas of the highest philosophy.* Then you received most splendid radiance, as a sponge soaks up water,* drawing it forth from the depths of enlightenment.* You followed in the steps of Christ our God, who called you.* Entreat Him that He save and illumine our souls. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Wounded with perfect love when zeal for salvation enkindled your soul,* impelling you to go to the Master, O most sacred father,* you gave voice to ever-chanted words:* “I am the wheat of the Creator,* and it is fitting that I be ground fine by teeth of the wild beasts,* that I may be shown to be pure bread for the Word my God!”* Entreat Him that He save and illumine our souls. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You were crucified with Christ, O you who are manifest in sanctity,* when you cried out the divinely inspired words:* “My Love is crucified, and I hasten to share in His suffering!”* O blessed Ignatius, making your transit, like the sun, from the East to the West,* you travelled, shedding enlightenment;* and, adorned with a royal diadem, you have been brought before Christ.* Entreat Him that He save and illumine our souls. Tone 8, Glory… O God-bearing Ignatius, soaring aloft to Christ whom you desired,* you have received the reward of the sacred ministry of the Gospel of Christ,* which you completed in the shedding of your blood.* As the wheat of the immortal Husbandman, you were ground by the teeth of the wild beasts* and have been shown to be sweet bread for Him.* Pray for us, O blessed athlete. Now… O Bethlehem, receive standing as the metropolis of God;* for the never-waning Light comes to be born within you.* You angels, marvel in the heavens!* You men, give glory on earth!* O magi, bring the all-glorious gifts from Persia!* You shepherds, piping, sweetly sound forth the thrice-holy hymn!* Let every breath praise the Creator of all! Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 3 Lo! the time of our salvation draws nigh!* Make ready, O cave!* The Virgin approaches to give birth.* O Bethlehem, land of Judah, adorn yourself and rejoice,* for from you has our Lord shone forth!* Hearken, mountains and hills, and parts of Judea which lie round about,* for Christ comes that He might save man whom He created,* in that He loves mankind. God shall come forth out of Teman,* and the Holy One out of a mountain overshadowed and densely wooded. O Bethlehem, land of Judah,* splendidly prepare the divine cave for human habitation,* for therein God will be born in the flesh of the holy Virgin who knew not man,* that He might save our race. O Lord, I have heard Your report, and I was afraid;* O Lord, I considered Your works, and I was amazed. Come all, and with faith let us celebrate the forefeast of the Nativity of Christ,* and noetically offering hymnody like a star,* with the shepherds let us give voice to the glorification of the magi:* Salvation has come to men through the Virgin’s womb,* restoring the faithful. Tone 1, Glory… O steadfast and adamantine soul, O right blessed Ignatius!* For, with unwavering desire for Him who loves you, you did say:* “There is not within me the fire of the love of material things;* rather there is in me living water which speaks in me, saying within me: Come to the Father.”* Afire with the divine Spirit, you permitted the wild beasts to separate you quickly from the world* and send you to Christ whom you desired.* Entreat Him that He save our souls. Now… O people, let us celebrate the forefeast of the Nativity of Christ,* and lifting our thoughts up to Bethlehem, let us elevate ourselves in mind;* and with the eyes of our souls let us gaze upon the Virgin,* who comes to give birth in the cave to our Lord and God.* Joseph, beholding the magnitude of His miracles,* supposed that he beheld a man wrapped as a babe in swaddling-bands,* but perceived from the testimony of things that He was the true God,* who bestows great mercy upon our souls. Troparia Tone 4 You sat on the chair of the apostles and exercised their powers.* You are the inspiration of prelates and the glory of martyrs.* You faced savage beasts, fire, and sword all for the sake of the faith.* You made the course of truth straight, even at the price of your own blood.* O priest-martyr Ignatius, beg Christ our God to save our souls. Glory… Now… Bethlehem, make ready, for Eden has been opened for all.* Ephrathah, be alert, for the Tree of life has blossomed forth from the Virgin in the cave.* Her womb has become a spiritual paradise* wherein the divine Fruit was planted,* and if we eat of it we shall live and not die like Adam.* Christ is coming forth to bring back to life* the likeness that had been lost in the beginning. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Bethlehem, make ready, for Eden has been opened for all.* Ephrathah, be alert, for the Tree of life has blossomed forth from the Virgin in the cave.* Her womb has become a spiritual paradise* wherein the divine Fruit was planted,* and if we eat of it we shall live and not die like Adam.* Christ is coming forth to bring back to life* the likeness that had been lost in the beginning. Troparion, Tone 4: You sat on the chair of the apostles and exercised their powers.* You are the inspiration of prelates and the glory of martyrs.* You faced savage beasts, fire, and sword all for the sake of the faith.* You made the course of truth straight, even at the price of your own blood.* O priest-martyr Ignatius, beg 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 Virgin is on her way to the cave* where she will give birth in a manner beyond understanding* to the Word who is in all eternity.* Rejoice, therefore, O universe, when you hear it heralded.* With the angels and the shepherds, glorify Him who chose to be seen as anew born babe* while remaining God in all eternity. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Having piously lived among the hierarchs,* and having trod the path of suffering,* you extinguished the sacrifices to idols* and were a defender for your flock, O godly one.* Therefore, venerating you, we sincerely cry to you:* “Rescue us from dangers by your prayers, O our father, Ignatius. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The venerable ones will exult in glory* and they shall be joyful in their beds. verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; let His praise be in the assembly of the venerable ones. (Psalm 149:5,1) Epistle James 2:1-13 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Your priests shall clothe themselves with justice, and Your venerable ones shall rejoice. verse: For the Lord has chosen Sion; He has chosen it for His dwelling. (Psalm 131:9,13) Gospel Mark 10:23-32 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Dec 19, 2024 - The Holy Martyr Boniface.

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 19, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Traversing all the earth, you sowed divine teachings,* bearing the Word alone as a lamp and all riches, О disciples of the Lord;* and thereby you put emperors and torturers to shame,* and rent asunder the vain arguments of the philosophers and rhetors as though they were spiders’ webs,* calling all to recognize the Creator,* and abolishing the vain worship of demons.* Wherefore, I pray that, by your prayers,* you deliver me from those who are irrational. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. By your supplications to God, deliver us all from the turmoil of temptations,* the cruel deception of shameful heresies, the evil counsel of the demons,* the fire which burns in the absence of light,* the everlasting worm, the gnashing of teeth, and all other torments;* and beseech Him that, for the sake of your temperance and toils,* we may receive the reward of the virtues,* the inheritance of the kingdom of heaven, and great mercy. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Clearly receiving all the effulgence,* and the reflected light of the ineffable dispensation of the Trinity,* insofar as human nature can so do,* the all-praised twelve perfectly manifested themselves, bringing with them the seventy-two,* and enlightening the ends of the world, darkened by the darkness of wicked heresy,* pray to Christ that He grant the world great mercy. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You desired the goodly name given to martyrs, O much suffering passion-bearer,* and endured pangs with bold resolve, O most blessed one,* expecting to be translated to the rest which is devoid of pain,* and seeking to receive heavenly honours,* a dwelling-place in paradise,* never-waning light and everlasting life. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You endured the most savage of pangs:* the tearing away of your finger-nails, cruel piercing,* molten lead and the severing of thy head,* and joined the choir of athletes, rejoicing, O much suffering one.* We celebrate your annual memorial, O athlete Boniface,* converser with the angels. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Sending you, her manservant, before her, O Boniface,* Aglais acquired a divine master who tamed the passions,* attained mastery over tyrants, cast down the enemy,* and was arrayed in a crown of victory.* Having constructed for you a holy temple all-adorned,* she enshrined you therein, praising you in sanctity. Tone 4, Glory… Now… I lie upon the bed of despondency, O most immaculate one,* and pass my life in slothfulness,* and I fear the time of my end, O Theotokos.* Let not the most evil serpent rend my lowly soul asunder without pity, like a lion.* Going before me in your goodness,* before my end raise me up to repentance. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 5 As eyewitnesses to the mysteries of the Saviour, О disciples,* you preached the Invisible One who has no beginning, saying:* In the beginning was the Word.* You were not created before the angels, nor were you taught of men,* but by the wisdom of the Most High.* Wherefore, as you have boldness, pray on behalf of our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Together let us praise the apostles of the Lord with hymns,* for, having arrayed themselves in the armour of the Cross,* they abolished the delusion of the demons* and were revealed to be crowned victors.* By the supplications of them and all the saints, О God, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Your souls filled with insatiable love, О holy martyrs,*you did not deny Christ;* and enduring the diverse wounds of sufferings,* you cast down the audacity of the tormentors;* and having preserved the Faith intact and unharmed,* you were translated to the heavens.* Wherefore, as you have boldness before Him, ask that He grant us great mercy. Glory… Now… We bless you, O Virgin Theotokos,* and we, the faithful, glorify you as is meet, O unassailable city,* impregnable rampart, and steadfast intercession and refuge of our souls. Troparia Tone 4 O Lord our God, your holy martyr Boniface* has deserved the crown of immortality* on account of his good fight.* Armed with your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through his supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Glory… Now… O Virgin Mother of God,* we acknowledge that the Word of the Father, Christ our God,* was incarnate of you, the only pure one and the only blessed one.* Therefore, we sing to you a hymn of praise and we exalt you. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Your martyr, Boniface, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, 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 2: As a bright and unerring star you appeared to the world* proclaiming with your rays the Sun, that is, Christ, O martyr, Boniface,* and you have extinguished all error.* But to us you give light, praying without ceasing for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord, and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice, when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle James 1:19-27 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just man shall flourish like the palm tree; and he shall grow like the cedar in Lebanon. verse: They who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish the courts of our God. (Psalm 91:13,14) Gospel Mark 10:17-27 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Dec 18, 2024 - The Holy Martyr Sebastian and those with him.

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 18, 2024 Nativity Fast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. You were lifted up like a lamb upon the Cross,* and laid low the uprisings of the deceiver;* and when You were slaughtered You sanctified the whole earth with Your blood.* Pierced by the spear, You commanded the flaming sword to turn away from me,* that I might dwell in paradise and partake without fear of the tree of life.* Wherefore, saved by Your sufferings, I cry out, rejoicing:* Glory be to Your divine Cross, whereby we have been delivered from the ancient curse* and receive from the Tree blessing and great mercy! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Desiring to bring an end to the pain and afflictions of all, О supremely good Lord, my Saviour,* You endured vile crucifixion;* You tasted of gall, О Innocent One, removing the bitter taste of evil;* and wounded, О Word, by the thrust of the spear,* You heal our wounds, in that You are Master.* Wherefore, we hymn Your glorious will,* and bowing down, we honour the spear, the sponge, and the reed,* whereby You have imparted to Your world peace and great mercy. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. “How did the iniquitous multitude of the Jews condemn You to be crucified on the Cross, О Jesus,* taking no pity on You, the Compassionate One?”,* exclaimed the Virgin, weeping, when she beheld lifted up upon the Cross* Him who was born from her womb without suffering;* “and what has the iniquitous council done to You, О my Child most desired, my most beloved Son?* Make haste and save those who glorify Your crucifixion with faith,* and those who magnify me, as You promised,* in that You alone are most good!” 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. With the dye of your precious blood* you made make for yourself a costly robe of purple,* and, having arrayed yourself therein,* you truly dwell in the kingdom on high, standing before God, the King of all.* Entreat Him that He grant to our souls peace and great mercy. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. With Sebastian there suffered Zoe, Mark and Marcellinus,* and the divinely wise Tiburtius,* enduring threefold waves of torments;* and they have now made their abode in divine peace devoid of pain,* wherein they pray that peace and great mercy be granted to our souls. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O blessed invincible martyrs,* having forsaken earthly things,* you have hastened to the heavens,* adorned with your wounds and splendidly arrayed in your honoured sufferings.* Pray that peace and great mercy be granted to our souls. Tone 1, Glory… Now… In your womb you bore Christ, the Fire of divinity, O all-pure one.* Beseech Him now that He quench the easily kindled matter of my passions,* deliver me from everlasting fire,* and vouchsafe me the splendour of the righteous* when He comes to judge all things. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 5 О Lord, of old, in the time of Moses the Prophet,* the image of Your Cross, precisely revealed, vanquished Your enemies;* and now, possessed of that same Cross, we ask Your help:* Strengthen Your Church, for the sake of Your great mercy, О Lover of mankind! I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Though a tree visible by nature, Your Cross, О Christ, is invested with divine power;* and tangibly revealed to the world,* it wondrously and noetically works our salvation.* Bowing down before it, we glorify You, О Saviour.* Have mercy on us! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Pray for us, О holy martyrs,* that we may be delivered from our iniquities;* for to you have been given the grace* to make supplication on our behalf. Glory… Now… Taking upon Himself my whole form, God the Creator clad himself therein,* desiring to refashion the fallen form of Adam;* and was willingly lifted up upon the Cross as one guilty.* But now stretching forth His hands, He heals our hands,* which of old were rendered weak by stretching forth to pluck the fruit of the tree.* And the all-pure one, beholding Him, exclaimed:* What is this Your ineffable long-suffering, О my Son?* I cannot bear to see You who holds the ends of the whole earth in the palm of Your hand,* lifted up upon the Cross! Troparia Tone 4 O Lord our God, your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Glory… Now… O Virgin, all immaculate Mother of Christ God,* a sword pierced your all-holy soul* when you saw your Son and God willingly crucified.* Therefore, O blessed One,* never cease to pray to Him* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle James 1:1-18 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Mark 10:11-16 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Dec 17, 2024 - The Holy Prophet Daniel. The Three Holy Youths Ananiah, Azariah, and Mishael.

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 17, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The wondrous Daniel,* having made his heart the pure abode of the Spirit,* illumined by Him manifestly proclaims* the revelation of things to come;* and, adorned with the splendour of prophecy,* he clearly interprets the hidden dreams* of the all iniquitous and mighty kings. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Having rendered your body strong beforehand with intense fasting,* you closed the mouths of the lions;* for, standing in their midst, O wondrous prophet,* and lifting your eyes to our good God,* you remained unharmed through the ineffable power of the Deliverer of our souls* who all-gloriously accomplishes all things. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O wondrous prophet,* you beheld the Unapproachable One,* the just Judge, sitting on a throne, surrounded by angels.* And, marvelling at the awesome and terrible sight,* you described it for all who came after,* recounting the second coming of our incarnate God. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Observing the God-given laws, O most blessed ones,* you did not defile yourselves with abominable foods,* but, keeping the beauty of your souls incorrupt,* you preserved the flower of your flesh untainted and unwithered and your splendour comely* for the Master who glorifies His favoured ones. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Enkindled by the divine flame,* the youths prevailed over the fire;* for the honoured ones were seen to be bedewed therein,* forming an all-splendid choir, chanting in melodious hymnody;* for Daniel rejoiced, beholding the immutable kingdom of Christ,* in that he is a most excellent prophet. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Marvelling at the wisdom of your words* and the understanding of the youths, O right wondrous Daniel,* the tyrants appointed you to rule and govern the land of Chaldea, O honoured ones;* for the adversary knew to marvel most manifestly* at your virtue and splendour of life;* for you restrained the passions gaining power over you. Tone 2, Glory… Today, the Prophet Daniel has spiritually assembled us, O you faithful,* and laid an abundant banquet of the virtues for rich and poor, paupers, wanderers, and household servants,* filling a noetic cup with the water of piety,* gladdening the hearts of the faithful and imparting the grace of the Holy Spirit,* for he is a most splendid luminary who, shining forth in the world,* cast down all the worship of the Assyrians* and shut the mouths of the untamed beasts.* And with him let the three youths be praised* who, though not gold by nature, were shown to be tried like gold;* for the fire of the furnace melted them together, yet preserved them whole,* and naphtha, sulphur and tinder crowned them.* May the Lord Who has led us to the turning of the year* vouchsafe that we also may attain to the lordly and honourable day of the nativity of Christ,* who through their supplications bestows cleansing of sins and great mercy upon us. Now… Come all of you, and with faith let us celebrate the forefeast of the nativity of Christ,* noetically offering up hymns of glorification like the star of the magi,* and with the shepherds let us cry aloud:* The deliverance of the nations has come forth from the Virgin’s womb,* summoning the faithful. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 5 O Lord, I cease not to sin,* nor do I perceive Your love for mankind which You have granted me.* Vanquish my lack of discernment, O You who alone are good,* and have mercy upon me. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. O Lord, from reverent fear of You I tremble,* yet I cease not from committing sins.* Who, when called to trial, does not fear the judge?* Or who, desiring to be healed, angers the physician, as I do?* O longsuffering Lord, have compassion upon my weakness,* and have mercy upon me. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Having put on the breastplate of faith and armed themselves with the image of the Cross,* Your saints, О Lord, manfully gave themselves over to torments* and cast down the pride and deception of the devil.* As God almighty, send down peace upon the world through their entreaties,* and great mercy upon our souls. Tone 6, Glory… Now… Daniel, the man of divine desires,* seeing You, O Lord, the Stone not cut by human hands,* foretold that You would without seed be born a babe,* the Word incarnate of the Virgin, God immutable,* the Saviour of our souls. Troparia Tone 2 Great are the accomplishments of faith!* In the fountain of flame, as in refreshing water, the three holy children rejoiced;* and the Prophet Daniel was shown to be a shepherd of lions, as of sheep.* By their prayers, O Christ God, save our souls. Glory… Now… O Mother of God and virgin forever,* through you we have been made to share the divine nature;* you have given birth for us to the incarnate God.* Therefore, we all exalt you with great devotion. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: Great are the deeds performed with faith:* three youths rejoiced in the flaming furnace* as if they stood in refreshing waters;* and Daniel the prophet faced lions as though they were sheep.* Through their prayers, O Christ our 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: You did not worship a man-made image, O thrice-blessed youths,* but were glorified in the test of fire,* protected by a power beyond description.* From the searing flames you cried out to God, saying:* Hasten to help us, O merciful Lord,* for in your greatness You can do whatever You will. 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 Hebrews 12:25-26; 13:22-25 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Mark 10:2-12 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Dec 16, 2024 - The Holy Prophet Haggai.

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 16, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. I weep and am downcast, envisioning the dread sentence of the Word,* for which I, a wretch, have not the least reply for my guilt.* Wherefore, I pray: Before the unseemliness of my end overtake me,* before I am mowed down by death,* before I must needs be condemned to the place* where the fire is unquenchable and the darkness is absolute,* where are the worm and gnashing of teeth, and sinners are consumed,* О my Christ, grant me great mercy and deliverance from my offenses. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Disdaining Your laws and the Scriptures, wretch that I am,* I have rejected Your commandments, О God my Creator.* How will I ever avoid the torment which is to come, О Saviour!* Wherefore, before my end grant me forgiveness and a shower of tears,* imparting true compunction to me, О Saviour.* As You are the supremely good God,* drive far from me the hordes of the demons* who seek to drag me down into the abyss of Hades, for I entreat You:* Take not Your almighty hand from me! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Woe is me! How have I been darkened in mind?* How have I withdrawn from You and, wretch that I am, enslaved myself to sin;* and, enslaved to the passions, given myself wholly over to carnal pleasure* which lives within me, who am passion-fraught?* Now I await my departure from this life and the coming reckoning.* О supremely good Lord, grant me tearful repentance* and release from my countless transgressions,* for with faith I beseech You who grants the world great mercy. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Having become a dwelling-place and animate temple of your Lord* through the splendour of your life and your sojourn, O most honoured one,* you raised up to Him who reigns over the whole world* the inanimate temple which had fallen of old. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Beseech Him with your supplications, that He grant great mercy to all.* You were a vessel of the Spirit, pleasing in lustre,* receiving effulgence imparted to you from the heavens;* you prophesied the deliverance of all men by the Saviour.* Beseech Him with your supplications,* that He grant great mercy to all. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Bathed in luminous radiance, vouchsafed vision,* and shown to be full of the most pure enlightenment which never wanes, O blessed one,* preserve those who hymn you, entreating the one Lord,* that He grant great mercy to all. Tone 8, Glory… Now… Alas! Woe is me, who have angered my God,* remaining in ignorance, despondency, and slothfulness, as I have!* O Virgin Mistress, help me who am benighted,* and entreat your Son and Creator,* that He grant me forgiveness of my offenses. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 5 O Lord, I cease not to sin,* nor do I perceive Your love for mankind which You have granted me.* Vanquish my lack of discernment, O You who alone are good,* and have mercy upon me. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. O Lord, from reverent fear of You I tremble,* yet I cease not from committing sins.* Who, when called to trial, does not fear the judge?* Or who, desiring to be healed, angers the physician, as I do?* O longsuffering Lord, have compassion upon my weakness,* and have mercy upon me. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Not caring for all earthly things, and manfully braving tortures,* you were not disappointed in your goodly hopes,* but became inheritors of the kingdom, of heaven, О all-praised martyrs.* Having boldness before God the Lover of mankind,* ask peace for the world and great mercy for our souls. Glory… Now… O strange, awesome and great mystery!* The Uncircumscribable One has made His abode within a womb,* and a Mother remains a Virgin even after birthgiving,* for from her she gave birth to God Incarnate.* To Him, then, let us cry aloud,* to Him let us raise a hymn, chanting with the angels:* Holy are You, O Christ God, who was incarnate for our sake!* Glory be to You! Troparia Tone 2 As we celebrate the memory of Your prophet, Haggai,* O Lord, we beseech You through him: “Save our souls!” Glory… Now… Rejoice, O woman who at the angel’s greeting contained the Joy of the world!* Rejoice, for you gave birth to your Creator and Lord!* Rejoice, for you were made worthy to become the Mother of God. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: As we celebrate the memory of Your prophet, Haggai,* O Lord, we beseech You through him: “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 4: Enlightened by the spirit* your pure heart, having seen the distant in the present* became a vessel of brilliant prophecy;* and so we honour you, O blessed and glorious prophet, Haggai. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 You are a priest for ever according to the order of Melchizedek. verse: The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies the footstool of your feet.” (Psalm 109:4,1) Epistle Hebrews 11:17-23, 27-31 Alleluia, Tone 5 verse: Moses and Aaron are among His priests and Samuel among those who call upon His name. verse: Light is risen for the just and joy for the righteous of heart. (Psalm 96:11) Gospel Mark 9:42-10:1 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Dec 15, 2024 - Sunday of the Holy Forefathers. Octoechos Tone 5. Our Holy Father Stephen the Confessor, Archbishop of Surozh; The Holy Hieromartyr Eleutherius. Our Venerable Father Paul of Latra.

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 15, 2024 Father Paul of Latra. Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 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 sin,* and have saved us from the gates of death.* We, therefore, glorify You, O only-begotten Son of God. 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! 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. Let Your 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 from 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. 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. 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. Tone 8 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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! 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 5 O Christ our Saviour,* we lift up our voices in song 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. 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 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. 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. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 5 Troparia, 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. (2) 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. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 5 Let us celebrate the Cross of the Lord,* let us honour His holy Burial with hymns,* and let us exulting, glorify His Resurrection.* For with Himself He has raised the dead from their graves,* and as God having despoiled the dominion of death* and the might of the devil,* He has shone forth light upon those in Hades. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high; forget not Your poor to the end. O Lord, You who put death to death, was called dead;* You who have emptied the tombs was placed in a tomb;* above, the soldiers stood guarding the grave,* below, You raised the dead from all ages.* O Lord, All-powerful and Incomprehensible,* glory be to You! Glory… Now… Rejoice holy mountain upon which God has walked;* Rejoice! living bush unconsumed by fire;* Rejoice! O only bridge of creation to God, who leads mortals to eternal life;* Rejoice! Maiden undefiled, who has born without wedlock* the salvation of our souls. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 5 O Lord, after Your Resurrection on the third day,* and after the worship of the Apostles, Peter cried to You;* The women had courage, and I was afraid;* the Thief confessed You as God, and I denied You:* will You no longer call me a disciple,* or will You once again declare me a fisher of the deep?* Receive me in my penitence, O God, and save me!’ I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart, I will tell of all You wonders. O Merciful Lord, the lawless Ones nailed You between two condemned thieves* and pierced Your side with a lance,* but You, who destroyed the gates of Hades,* suffered burial and arose on the third day;* The women ran to see You and announced the Resurrection to Your Apostles.* O supremely exalted Saviour whom the Angels hymn,* O blessed Lord, glory be to You. Glory… Now… The Bride who knew not wedlock, the Birthgiver of God,* who turned Eve’s grief to joy,* we the faithful hymn and worship,* for you have redeemed us from the ancient curse.* And now, O All-hymned most holy one,* cease not to make intercession for the salvation of our souls. Polyeleos Evoglitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 5 The Myrrh-bearing women, amazed in their minds by the vision of the Angel* yet enlightened in their souls by the divine Resurrection,* announced the glad tidings to the Apostles:* Proclaim among the nations the Resurrection of the Lord,* who works in us through wonders,* and who grants us great mercy. Sessional Hymn, Tone 8 With hymns let us all praise Abraham, Isaac and Jacob,* the meek David, Joshua, and the twelve patriarchs,* together with the three youths that quenched the fiery flame with the power of the Spirit.* And let us cry out to them: Rejoice, you that bravely denounced the deception of the mad king!* Pray y to Christ that He grant remission of offenses* to them that celebrate your holy memory with love. Glory… Now… Like the widow who gave two mites as an offering,* I offer you the praise of thanksgiving which is your due, O Mistress, for all your gifts;* for you are shown to be a shelter and aid, ever rescuing me from temptations and tribulations.* Wherefore, delivered from that which causes me grief,* as from the midst of a burning furnace, I cry out to you with all my heart:* O Theotokos, help me by entreating Christ God to grant me remission of transgressions,* for I, your servant, have you as my hope. Gradual Hymns, Tone 5 Antiphon 1 When I am troubled I sing to You like David,* O my Saviour:* Deliver my soul from a deceitful tongue. Blessed is the life of those* who dwell in the desert places,* Divine love gives them wings. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit all things are unshaken,* both visible and invisible;* for He has sovereign power,* being undeniably one of the Trinity. Antiphon 2 Lift up yourself to the mountains,* O my soul;* go to that place from whence comes our help. Let Your right hand hover over me,* O Christ,* and guard me from every misfortune. Glory… Now… Let us sing to the Holy Spirit, as we contemplate God:* You are God, life, love, light, and intellect,* You are goodness,* and You reign to the ages. Antiphon 3 Filled with great joy at the words of those who say to me:* “Let us go into the courts of the Lord,”* I offer up my prayers. Fearful things are accomplished in the house of David;* for a fire is found there,* burning every shameful thought. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit belongs the lordship of life,* for from Him every living being hath its breath,* as also from the Father* together with the Son. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 Arise, O Lord my God, lift up Your hand*, for You shall reign forever. verse: I will confess to You, O Lord, with my whole heart, I will recount all Your marvellous works. Let everything that lives, Tone 5 Gospel John 20:11-18 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 5 Ode 1 Irmos: Christ, who breaks the battles,* with uplifted arm shook horse and rider into the Red Sea,* but Israel he saved,* singing a song of victory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The congregation of the Hebrews preserved no mother’s love for you who gave them every good; they crowned you with thorns, O Christ, you who had loosed from the punishing thorns the first ancestor of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Giver of life, you bent down to the pit without danger of falling and raised me up who had fallen; you bore with my evil-smelling corruption, O Christ, yourself untouched, and made me fragrant with the sweet oil of the divine nature. Most holy Theotokos, save us! The curse is lifted, sorrow has ceased; O blessed one and full of grace, you have caused joy to spring up for the faithful for from you Christ has flowered, our blessing for ever. Canon of the Three Holy Youths and Daniel Irmos: Having traversed the water as though it were dry land* and escaped the land of Egypt,* the Israelites cried aloud:* Let us chant to our Deliverer and God! O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Let us glorify the unoriginate Word, Who in godly manner was born of the Father before all ages and was visible as a figure to the youths in the furnace. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us The right noble youths, resolutely spitting upon the words of the impious tyrant, did not wish to defile themselves with the food of the iniquitous like the Chaldeans. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Nourished in soul by the word of God and in body with foods which grew of themselves, they showed themselves to the king as more comely of countenance than them that were fed with coarse foods. Most holy Theotokos, save us! The venom of the serpent, which was bitterly poured into the ears of Eve, you heal, O Maiden, who did spring forth from David and gave birth to the Deliverer. Canon of the Holy Forefathers 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. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Let us offer up a hymn to the fathers that shone forth before the Law and under the Law, that, by their upright will, were pleasing to the Lord and Master Who shone forth from the Virgin, and that now delight in unwaning enlightenment. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Let us honour the first Adam who was honoured by the hand of the Creator, and who is the forefather of us all and rests with all the elect in the mansions of heaven. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! The Lord and God of all accepted the gifts of Abel, who offered them with a most noble soul; and when he was slain by his brother’s murderous hand, He received his soul into light as that of a divine martyr. Glory… Now… Let us hearken to the divine sayings which declare the appearance of Christ; for, lo! of a Maiden that knew not man is He born in a cave, Whose awesome nativity the star which appeared to the astrologers proclaims. 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: Your command fixed firm the earth upon nothing* and sovereignty poised its vast bulk;* make firm your Church on the immovable rock of your commandments,* O Christ, alone good and Lover of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Those who sucked honey from the rock brought you gall for your wonders in the wilderness, O Christ. Vinegar for manna the ungrateful sons of Israel gave you in exchange for your deeds of goodness. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Covered of old by a light-radiant cloud they laid life, O Christ, in the grave: but, you rose of your own power, and you granted mystically to all the faithful the Spirit’s overshadowing shining from above. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Mother of God, virginally and without a mother’s pain you bore him, the outshining of the untouched Father; therefore, since you conceived the Word made flesh, in true faith we proclaim you Bearer of God. Canon to the Three Holy Youths and Daniel Irmos: You are the confirmation of them that have recourse to You, O Lord;* You are the Light of the benighted, and my spirit hymns You. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Having acquired divinely imparted understanding, the children of David kept the laws of their fathers in divinely wise fashion, O Master. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us The fire did not consume the most pure bodies of the pious youths, for they had been watered with a spiritually nourishing fast. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Wondrously bedewed in the midst of the furnace, the three children chanted the universal and oft chanted hymn of praise. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! O Master, You show us a birthgiving from a Virgin’s body and save the bodies of the virginal youths in the furnace. Canon to the Holy Forefathers 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! O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! The zeal of Seth for his Creator is hymned throughout the world, for in his blameless life and spiritual love he was truly pleasing to Him, and now cry out in the land of the living: Holy are You, O Lord! O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! The wondrous Enos trusted in the Spirit and with divine wisdom began to call upon the God and Master of all with mouth, tongue and heart; and having lived on earth in a God-pleasing manner, he received glory. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Let us bless Enoch with sacred utterances, for, having been well pleasing to the Lord, he was translated in glory, being shown to be greater than death, as it hath been written, since he had been a most earnest servant of God. Glory… Now… Now the expectation of the nations comes forth from the Virgin, and Bethlehem radiantly opens the shut gates of Eden, receiving the incarnate Word, Who, in the flesh, is laid in a manger. 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! Sessional Hymn, Tone 2 The fire was transformed into dew for the children,* and the lamentation of the myrrh-bearing women was changed into joy;* and an angel ministered in both wonders, transforming the furnace into a place of rest for the former,* and announcing the Resurrection on the third day to the latter.* O Lord, Author of our life, glory be to You! Ode 4 Irmos: Habakkuk in prophecy, O Christ, apprehending your divine emptying, in trembling awe cried out to you: For the salvation of your people, to make safe your anointed, you have come. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Good One, the most bitter streams of Meribah you sweetened by a tree, and thus in sign prefigured your pure cross which slays the bitter taste of sin. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You accepted a cross for the tree of knowledge, my Saviour, gall for sweet food, and for the corruption of death you shed the blood of God. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Untouched, you conceived incorruptibly in your womb; a Virgin, guarded to bring forth God in the flesh, you bore a child without pain and were virgin after the birth. Canon to the Three Holy Youths and Daniel Irmos: I have heard, O Lord, the mystery of Your dispensation;* I have considered Your works, and have glorified Your divinity. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us The most wise Daniel, divinely enlightened of mind, interpreted the dreams of the rulers by divine grace. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us The suffering of the youths in the furnace shines forth with wonders, for they brought the tyrant to acknowledge You, O Almighty One. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us The harmonious organs and melodious hymns of music did not distract the valorous ones, and they did not bow down before the golden image. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! O all-hymned one, with hymns do the children in Babylon honour your most divine Son, Whom they came to know in the furnace. Canon to the Holy Forefathers 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! O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Let us offer up praise unto God, honouring with hymns Noah, who is truly righteous; for he has been shown to be adorned in all the divine commandments, having been well pleasing to Christ, to Whom we, the faithful, chant: Glory to Your power, O Lord! O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Beholding your nobility and simplicity of character, God clearly showed you forth, O Noah, as perfect in all respects and the leader of the new world, who saved for it, from the deluge, the seed of every species, even as He Himself commanded. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! With hymns let us piously bless Noah, who preserved the Law of God intact; who, alone among all his generation, was found to be righteous, and of old saved the species of the animals with an ark of gopher wood at the command of Him that accomplishes all things. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! O blessed Noah, your memory pours forth upon us that honour you, the wine of compunction, which sever make glad the hearts and souls of them that, in a pure manner, bless your honourable and divine life. 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: To you, clothed with light as a garment,* early I rise and cry out.* Lighten my darkened soul,* O Christ, only compassionate. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. In dishonour and inglorious form, of his own will the Lord of glory hung upon the cross, and inconceivably thus procured for me divine glory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You have changed my clothing for the garment of incorruption, O Christ, for uncorrupted you tasted the corruption of death in the flesh, and on the third day rose from the tomb. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Mother of God, you set free our first father’s nature from the curse, for without seed you gave birth to Christ our righteousness and redemption. Canon to the Three Holy Youths and Daniel Irmos: Wherefore have You thrust me from Your countenance, O never waning Light?* And why has a strange darkness covered me, wretch that I am?* But turn me, and guide my steps* to the light of Your commandments, I entreat You! O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Your favoured ones, the great Daniel and the three divinely wise youths, having learned Your Law, O Saviour, were not rejected; but, having received strength of You, their Benefactor, they manfully vanquished the tyrants. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Daniel noetically learned Your mysteries, O Lover of mankind, for, with purity of mind, he beheld You as the King and Judge of all nations, coming as the Son of man upon a cloud. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Your unity is adorned more than with sapphire, O children, who burned like a golden ray with zeal for piety, and joyfully walked about in the furnace, forming a universal chorus. Most holy Theotokos, save us! The divine Daniel clearly described you as a mountain, O Virgin, and the three youths, beholding the dew-bearing flame, praised with hymns your divine Offspring as Saviour, Creator and Lord. Canon to the Holy Forefathers 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. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! With divine praises let Shem, who received the blessing of his father, be honoured; for, shown to be well pleasing before the Lord, he has joined the choir of the forefathers and joyously rests in the land of the living. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! As the friend of God, Abraham was vouchsafed to behold the day of his Creator and has become full of spiritual joy; wherefore, honouring his uprightness of mind, we all bless him as a divine forefather of Christ. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! You beheld the Trinity, insofar as it is possible for man to do; and as a true servant you offered it hospitality, O most blessed Abraham. Wherefore, for your strange hospitality you received a reward: to be, through faith, the father of countless nations. Glory… Now… He that is full empties Himself into the flesh for our sake; the Unoriginate One receives a beginning; He that is rich beggars Himself; He that is the Word of God lies like a babe in a manger of dumb beasts, accomplishing the restoration of all who have existed throughout the ages. 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: Lord Christ, calm the soul-destroying waves of the raging sea of passions* and, O compassionate, lead me up from corruption. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Our first ancestor fell into corruption, Lord Christ, tasting forbidden fruit; and he was brought back to life by your Passion. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You, the life, came to Hell and to the corrupter became corruption; thus, Lord Christ, through corruption you brought, as fountain springing, resurrection. Most holy Theotokos, save us! The Virgin bore a child and after bearing still was pure; holding him up in her arms who supports the whole creation she is truly Virgin Mother. Canon to the Three Holy Youths and Daniel Irmos: The abyss of my sins and the tempest of my transgressions discomfit me* and thrust me down into the depths of violent despondency.* But stretch forth Your mighty arm to me, as You did to Peter,* and save me, O my Guide. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Having mastered the passions of the soul by the power of the Word, you became governors in the lands of the Chaldean peoples, for virtue knows to give honour to them that have acquired her, O wise descendants of David. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Daniel of old, vested in life-bearing mortality, slew with food the most wicked serpent, which the Chaldeans impiously held to be a god; and wisely did he also slay the impious priests. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O Theotokos, Virgin and Mother, implore the Judge, your Son, the Deliverer from evils, that by your supplications He be merciful to me on the Day of Judgment; for on you alone do I place all my trust. Canon to the Holy Forefathers 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. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Led up by thy father’s obedience to be sacrificed, you were plainly an image of the Passion of Christ, O most blessed Isaac. Wherefore, you were blessed and did truly show yourself to be a close friend of God, rejoicing now with all the righteous. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Jacob was shown to be the most faithful of all of God’s favoured ones. Wherefore, he wrestled with an angel, beheld a celestial intelligence, was called a god, and, sleeping, saw a divine ladder, whereon God, Who put on our flesh in His goodness, established Himself. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Loving obedience to his father, and cast into a pit, Joseph was sold, thus becoming an image of Christ, Who was slain and placed in a tomb. And he became dispenser of the grain of Egypt, being chaste and righteous, and a most true governor of the passions. Glory… Now… He that is ever with the Father and the Spirit is known on earth as a little Child; and He that wraps the earth in darkness is wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger of dumb beasts. Rejoicing now, we celebrate the forefeast of His seedless nativity. 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 4 O thrice-blessed ones, who did not honour an image wrought by hands,* but were defended by the indescribable Essence,* you were glorified in your ordeal by fire;* and standing in the midst of unbearable flame, you called upon God, saying:* Speed and make haste to our aid, O Compassionate One,* in that You are merciful;* for what Thou will, You can do! Ikos Stretch forth Your hand whereby of old the warring Egyptians and the embattled Hebrews were tested. Forsake us not, that death, which thirsts after us, not swallow us up; and spare our souls, as you once spared Your three children in Babylon, who glorified You unceasingly and were cast for Your sake into a furnace, from whence they cried out to You: Speed and make haste to our aid, O Compassionate One,* in that You are merciful;* for what Thou will, You can do! Ode 7 Irmos: The Lord of the fathers, most highly exalted,* quenched the fire and rained his dew* on the young men in unison singing:* Blessed are you, O God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Clothed with flesh as bait for the hook, by your divine power you dragged the serpent down, and brought back those who cried: Blessed are you, O God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He, the unbounded, who brought into being and knitted together the boundless immensities of earth, in the flesh was concealed in the grave; and we sing to him: Blessed are you, O God. Most holy Theotokos, save us! All-holy, you bore one person in two natures, God has taken bodily form and we sing to him: Blessed are you, O God. Canon to the Three Holy Youths Irmos: The pious children did not worship the golden image in Babylon;* but, bedewed in the midst of the fiery furnace,* they chanted a hymn, saying:* Blessed are You, O supremely exalted God of our fathers! O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us A pious voice sounded forth to the Almighty from the midst of the fire, for the divine Azariah, forming a choir, chanted a hymn, saying: Blessed is the God of our fathers! O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us The harp of the youths theologizes concerning the Almighty, the God of all, and to Him that appeared to them openly in the furnace they chanted a hymn, saying: Blessed is the God of our fathers! O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us The king, seeing the three children who had been cast into the furnace, beheld, as it were, the form of a Fourth, and he called Him the Son of God and cried out to all: Blessed is the God of our fathers! Most holy Theotokos, save us! Possessed of a mind illumined with divine radiance, O divinely blessed Daniel, you clearly foresaw the Offspring of the Virgin formed by divine images; and you cried out: Blessed are You, O God of our fathers! Canon to the Holy Forefathers 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. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Let Ananiah, Azariah, and Misael, who quenched the fiery furnace, be hymned, together with Daniel, who stopped the mouths of the lions, for together they chanted to Christ: O God of our fathers, blessed are You! O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Having lawfully suffered amid temptations and unmitigated tribulations, Job was called the favourite of God, most faithful, meek, guileless, righteous, perfect, blameless, crying aloud: O God of our fathers, blessed are You! O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! With faith let us honour Moses, Aaron, and Hur, praising Joshua and the most sacred Levi, Gideon and Samuel, and let us cry out: O God of our fathers, blessed are You! Glory… Now… Behold! as the prophet has foretold, she that knew not wedlock has conceived in her womb and manifestly comes to Bethlehem to give birth to God. To Him let us chant: O God of our fathers, blessed are You! 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: The young men in the furnace devised a chorus of all creation for you, the Creator of all,* and in song they proclaimed it:* All you his works, sing to the Lord,* and highly exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As if it were against your will, of that so longed for cup of your saving Passion you prayed that it might not be: two wills to two natures corresponding you bear, O Christ, throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. At your descent, Creator of all, Hell the fool gave up all those who of old had been slain by deceit, and who now, O Christ, highly exalt you throughout all the ages. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O Virgin, beyond thought, in divine and human manner, by the word you bore the Lord, while remaining virgin; we, his creatures, bless and highly exalt you throughout all the ages. Canon to the Three Holy Youths and Daniel Irmos: Madly did the Chaldean tyrant heat the furnace sevenfold for the pious ones;* but seeing them saved by a greater power, he cried out to the Creator and Deliverer:* You children, bless; you priests, hymn;* you people, exalt Him supremely for all ages! O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Striving to preserve the nobility of Abraham, you acquired the foundation of faith and hope which was his very own, O venerable ones, and his patience and endurance of temptations, crying out: Bless the Master, O priests! You people, exalt Him supremely forever! O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Having shone forth like beacons and made the earth heavenly, and having been illumined with the radiance of piety, forming a universal chorus, they chant to the Master Who saved them from temptations: You children, bless; you priests, hymn; you people, exalt Him supremely for all ages! O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us The descendants of David, having youthfully extinguished the fiery furnace and shut the jaws of the lions, rejoicing, now hymn You, the Benefactor and King of all, saying: You children, bless; you priests, hymn; you people, exalt Him supremely for all ages! Most holy Theotokos, save us! O all-pure one, the most wise Daniel gives instruction in the mysteries, and the three divinely wise youths prefigure your birth giving, beholding through symbols Him that has come forth ineffably from your womb. Him do the children bless, the priests hymn and the people exalt supremely for all ages! Canon to the Holy Forefathers 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. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Let us celebrate today the divine memory of the honoured fathers of all ages past: Adam, Abel, Seth, Noah, Enos, Enoch and Abraham, Melchizedek and Job, Isaac, and the faithful Jacob, crying out: Let all creation bless the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages! O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! Let us praise the divinely beauteous phalange of the divine fathers: Barak, Nathan and Eleazar, Josiah and David, Jephthah and Samuel, who honourably beheld things which were to come and cried out: Let all creation bless the Lord, and exalt Him supremely forever! O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! With hymnody let us offer praise to the prophets of God, praising Hosea and Micah, Zephaniah and Habakkuk, Zechariah and Jonah, Haggai and Amos, Malachi and Obadiah, Nahum, Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel, together with Daniel, Elijah and Elisha. Let us bless the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, the Lord. With threefold utterances let us hymn the all-holy Trinity: the unoriginate Father, the Son and the right holy Spirit, the Unity of three Hypostases, which every breath glorifies, crying out: Let all creation bless the Lord, and exalt Him supremely for all ages! Now and for ever and ever. Amen. O Christ, You have appeared incarnate of the Virgin’s blood by Your ineffable word, being born in a cave as a perfect Babe in the abundance of Your loving-kindness, O Jesus. And the star heralds You from afar to the astrologers, who cry with faith: hymn and exalt Christ supremely forever! We praise, bless, and worship the Lord, singing and exalting Him throughout all ages. 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: Rejoice and sing, Isaiah,* the Virgin has conceived and bears a son, Emmanuel,* God and man, his name the Dayspring;* we magnify him and we call the Virgin blessed. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Fallen man, Lord Christ, you assumed; wholly joined to him in a virginal womb, sin alone excepted, wholly you have freed him from corruption by your pure sufferings. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your pure and life-giving side, Lord Christ, was emptied of the blood which flowed from God, and sacrifice to idols ceased; and all we of the earth bring to you the sacrifice of praise. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Not God bodiless, nor yet mere man, the pure and honourable Maid bore to us, but perfect man and perfect God, in very truth; we magnify him, together with the Father and the Spirit. Canon to the Three Holy Youths and Daniel Irmos: Saved by you, O pure Virgin, we truly confess you to be the Theotokos,* magnifying you with the bodiless choirs. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us You have attained your desired end, O most blessed youths, and you stand in the mansions of heaven before Him that is the greatest of all desires. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Rejoicing, you have received a sheaf as the reward of the good husbandry of your tears, having brought forth the grain of incorruption. O Three Holy Youths and Daniel pray to God for us Radiance has now shone upon you as is meet, and gladness of heart has blossomed forth, for from whence grief has fled away have you made your abode. Most holy Theotokos, save us! O Virgin, you halted the spread of death, having given birth to the Lord, the Bestower of life, Who imparts life to them that magnify you with faith. Canon to the Holy Forefathers 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 holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! By Your might, O Lord, You made powers of old: Your daughters Hannah, Judith, Deborah, Huldah, Jael and Esther, Sarah, Miriam the sister of Moses, Rachel, Rebecca and Ruth the exceedingly wise. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! In a sacred manner let us honour the holy children that quenched the furnace, and with them, Daniel the prophet and all that were clearly righteous, who shone forth well before the Law, and under the Law were pleasing to the Lord. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! The most wise and divine prophets, being descendants of Abraham, proclaimed through the Spirit the Word of God, born of Abraham and Judah. By their prayers, O Jesus, have compassion on us all. O holy Forefathers, pray to God for us! All creation is sanctified by your memory and, keeping festival, doth callout, crying aloud as befits a servant: Ever offer entreaty to the Lord, O blessed ones, that they that praise you may receive eternal blessings! Glory… Now… The Word of the Father, Who has robed Himself in me, comes forth from the Virgin and is born in the cave in unconfused manner. Dance, O creation, magnifying, with thankful voices His all-holy condescension which He has shown forth in His lovingkindness. 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 When Mary saw two angels inside the grave,* she was seized with fright.* She did not recognize Christ but thought that He was the gardener;* she said to Him: “Sir, where have You placed the body of Jesus?”* She knew from His voice that He was the Saviour,* and she obeyed Him when He said:* “Touch Me not for I am going to My Father.* Tell this to My disciples.” Glory… Let us praise Adam, Abel, Seth and Enos, Enoch and Noah, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Moses, Job and Aaron, Eleazar and Joshua, Barak, Sampson and Jephthah, David, and Solomon. Now… The great Sun, the Creator, Who shall come forth from the Virgin who knew not man, makes haste to Bethlehem to enlighten all that are descended from Adam. Wherefore, the most radiant memory of the forefathers proclaims the wonder. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 5 You came forth from the grave, O Lord, which had been sealed by the transgressors of the law,* just as You were born of the Theotokos.* For the bodiless angels did not know how You were incarnate.* Likewise, the guardian soldiers did not see the moment of your Resurrection;* for these two marvels were concealed from the curious minds* but were revealed to those who worshiped the mystery in faith.* Therefore, grant joy and great mercy to us who offer You praise. O Lord, You demolished the gates of everlasting damnation,* and You broke asunder the chains of the grave.* You rose from the tomb leaving your wrappings in the grave* in testimony of your three-day burial;* and leaving the guards watching at the tomb,* You preceded your disciples into Galilee.* Great is your mercy, O Lord whom the whole world cannot contain.* O Saviour, have mercy upon us. O Lord, who suffered for us,* the women hastened to your tomb to behold You.* When they arrived, they saw an angel sitting on the stone of the grave.* He said to them: The Lord is risen!* Go and tell the disciples that the Saviour of our souls is risen from the dead. O Lord and Saviour,* You came into the midst of your disciples though the doors were closed* just as You came out of the sealed tomb,* showing the sufferings of the flesh which You accepted;* for You submitted to suffering patiently since You are of the seed of David.* But since You are the Son of God, You saved the world.* Great is your mercy, O Lord whom the whole world cannot contain.* O Saviour, have mercy on us. Tone 2 Let us all now celebrate the memory of the forefathers,* hymning their life which was pleasing to God,* for Whose sake they have been magnified. Let us all now celebrate the memory of the forefathers,* hymning their life which was pleasing to God,* for Whose sake they have been magnified. Blessed are You, O Lord, the God of our fathers, and praised and glorified is Your name unto the ages. The children quenched the power of the fire,* dancing in the midst of the furnace,* and hymning God the Almighty. For righteous are You in all which You have done for us. Daniel the prophet, who, imprisoned in a pit,* dwelt with wild beasts,* was shown forth as one who did not partake of their ferocity. Tone 7, Glory… Come all, let us faithfully celebrate* the annual commemoration of Abraham and them that are with him,* the fathers that lived before the Law.* Let us honour the tribe of Judah as is meet;* let us praise the youths in Babylon,* who, as an image of the Trinity, quenched the flame of the furnace,* together with Daniel;* and holding fast to the prophecies of the prophets,* let us cry aloud with Isaiah:* Behold, a Virgin shall conceive in her womb,* and shall bear a Son, Emmanuel, God with us! 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 MONRING 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.:

Dec 14, 2024 - The Holy Martyrs Thyrsus, Leucius, Philemon, Apollonius, and Callinicus.

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 14, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The wondrous Thyrsus, the divinely wise Callinicus, and the glorious Leucius,* confessing the uncreated Trinity, with most courageous resolve* endured torments most grievous and intense,* and as victors have received crowns of victory,* becoming fellow citizens with the immaterial hosts. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. The great Philemon, Adrian most rich, and the wise Apollonius* quenched the flame of polytheism with torrents of blood,* watered all the earth with divine streams of the knowledge of God,* and dried up rivers of the passions with showers of healing and grace divine,* in that they are our fervent defenders. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The glorious martyrs, the most beauteous flowers* blossomed forth in the meadow,* emitting the divine fragrance of the Spirit,* and perfuming the thoughts of those who with faith honour their annual memorial,* their sufferings and struggles, and their godly end.* Rejoicing, they dwell in never-waning light. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Emulating the sufferings of Christ, the Lover of mankind, О passion-bearers,* you gave your bodies over to wounds, and bitter torments, and myriad pangs,* ever looking forward to the divine delight of paradise,* to ever-abundant sustenance and everlasting glory;* and having received this, pray for those who hymn you. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Emulating the sufferings of Christ, the Lover of mankind, О passion-bearers,* you gave your bodies over to wounds, and bitter torments, and myriad pangs,* ever looking forward to the divine delight of paradise,* to ever-abundant sustenance and everlasting glory;* and having received this, pray for those who hymn you. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. О most sacred pastors, as glorious emulators of Christ, the Chief Shepherd, the King of all,* you readily laid down your lives for the sheep,* and endured grievous misfortunes, О right blessed ones;* and as champions you save the divinely chosen flock unharmed by cruel wolves. Tone 4, Glory… 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. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 4 You are glorified in the commemorations of Your saints, O Christ our God:* by their intercessions send down upon us Your great mercy. Wondrous is God in His saints,* the God of Israel. You have accepted the patient endurance of the holy martyrs:* in Your love for mankind accept our hymns of praise,* and by their intercessions send down upon us Your great mercy. Blessed are they whom You have chosen* and taken to Yourself, О Lord. With the spirits of the faithful departed* grant rest, O Saviour, to the souls of Your servants,* and preserve them for a life of blessedness* with You, O Lover of mankind. Tone 4, Glory… Now… O inextinguishable lamp, and throne of righteousness* most pure Sovereign Lady:* pray that our souls be saved. Troparia Tone 4 O Lord our God, your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. 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,* and saved our souls from death. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: O Lord our God, your holy martyrs * have deserved the crown of immortality * on account of their good fight. * Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors * and crushed Satan’s dreadful might. * Through their supplications, O Christ our 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 2: You showed the violence of the enemy in public * after you spat upon that barbarian torturer. * You upheld the holiness of the faith, * finding your strength in the help of Christ. * Now pray for us, all you martyrs. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle Ephesians 5:1-8 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 14:1-11 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Dec 13, 2024 - The Holy Martyrs Eustratios, Auxentius, Eugenius, Mardarius, and Orestes. The Holy Martyr Lucia, Virgin.

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 13, 2024 Polyeleos Feast. Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS FOR POLYELEOS Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The memory of Your martyr Eustratios, O Lord, shines like the sun;* by the brilliance of his invincible words,* he eclipsed the multitude of false gods.* As a house without foundations is brought down,* so did he overcome them by his faith* and was joined by four other martyrs as his companions.* Through their prayers, O Lover of mankind, grant us the remission of our sins. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. By their words, the sufferings of their lives and their privations,* the holy martyrs showed You their unshakeable dedication even to the end:* Orestes and Mardarius joined the wise Eustratios, Auxentius and Eugenius* in their glorious struggle.* Through their prayers, O Lord, save our souls. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. In the fury of the brutal tyrant, the illustrious Auxentius was beheaded;* Mardarius was crowned as he was hanged;* Eugenius attained the fullness of eternal life as they cut off his hands and tongue;* Orestes fell asleep in the Lord as he was laid on a bed of burning coals;* Eustratios was led like a lamb to the fire for Christ. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Eustratios, fighting the good fight for the King of heaven's hosts,* you handed yourself over willingly to the torments and agony of death,* leading with you a blessed escort of holy martyrs.* In company with them, you struggled and all received the crowns as victors.* O wondrous martyr, intercede for us. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Eustratios, wise in God; Auxentius, with a noble heart;* Eugenius and Mardarius, the illustrious martyrs, victorious together with Orestes,* have all put the enemy to flight.* Shining like stars with the light of countless fires,* they enlighten the souls of believers and scatter the darkness of shadowy error* by the radiance of the Holy Spirit. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Having maintained the purest virginity,* you hastened joyfully into the presence of your Creator.* Renouncing your earthly suitor, you chose Christ as your Bridegroom.* Running the race to its good end, O illustrious Lucy,* you were resplendent as you bore witness to Christ by your faith.* Now you obtain miraculous cures for those who honour you. Tone 6, Glory… Come, all you who love the martyrs:* with hymns let us venerate the holy Athletes of Christ:* Eustratios, the invincible witness; Auxentius and Eugenius, with Orestes and Mardarius,* that choir of martyrs with five-fold brilliance.* They fought the good fight against the invisible enemy* and received their reward as conquerors.* Now they intercede with Christ for the faithful* who celebrate their holy memory with 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 have mercy on our souls. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Readings (1) Isaiah 43:9-14; (2) Wisdom 3:1-9; (3) Wisdom 5:15-6:3 Aposticha Tone 1 Eustratios, the admirable and victorious martyr,* invites us to celebrate his memory each year on this day.* Thus we have all come to venerate him as a friend of the Lord,* a firm champion of the faith. God is wonderful among His saints, the God of Israel. Arming yourself with the courage of David,* you went out to fight to the death with another Goliath, the Seducer,* because of your faith in the Holy Trinity.* Thus, O Eustratios, you share constantly in the joy of the angels in heaven,* and you pray to the Saviour for our salvation. God has displayed wonders in the saints who dwell in His land; all His good pleasure is upon them. Like Elijah the Thesbite,* you were consumed by prophetic zeal for the Lord of hosts,* O Eustratios, divinely inspired martyr.* You confounded the vain arrogance of the impious,* destroying the abomination of false gods* with all your might. Tone 5, Glory… Without fear in the face of the bold tyrants,* you confessed your faith in Christ* and endured the torments and punishments.* O Eustratios and Auxentius, Mardarius, Eugenius and Orestes, glorious martyrs,* ceaselessly intercede with the King, our God,* for the faithful who celebrate your holy memory. Now.. Once she saw her Lamb elevated on the Cross,* the spotless Virgin Mother cried out in tears:* "O my Son, how can you die, for You are the immortal God!" Troparia Tone 4 Your martyrs, O Lord,* by their sufferings acquired the crowns of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power they overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By their supplications, save our souls. 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,* and saved our souls from death. DIVINE LTURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Your martyrs, O Lord,* by their sufferings acquired the crowns of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power they overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By their supplications, 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 2: You shone, O victorious Martyr,* as a brilliant light for those sitting in the darkness of ignorance.* And armed with faith as with a lance, O Eustratios, most eloquent orator,* you feared not your enemies’ arrogance. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle Ephesians 6:10-17 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 21:12-19 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Dec 12, 2024 - Our Venerable Father Spiridon the Wonderworker, Bishop of Tremithus.

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 12, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Rejoice, rule of hierarchs,* unshaken confirmation of the Church,* glory of the orthodox, wellspring of miracles,* inexhaustible stream of love,* most radiant beacon, organ of the Spirit,* intellect divine, meek and guileless,* adorned with true simplicity, heavenly man and earthly angel,* labourer in the vineyard, true friend of Christ!* Beseech Him to grant great mercy to them that honour you! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Rejoice, rule of hierarchs,* unshaken confirmation of the Church,* glory of the orthodox, wellspring of miracles,* inexhaustible stream of love,* most radiant beacon, organ of the Spirit,* intellect divine, meek and guileless,* adorned with true simplicity, heavenly man and earthly angel,* labourer in the vineyard, true friend of Christ!* Beseech Him to grant great mercy to them that honour you! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Spyridon, glory of the fathers,* you were truly shown to be meek and an heir to the land of the meek.* By the sinews of your wise and simple words* you strangled Arius, the most wicked and demented enemy, by divine grace.* And, having clarified the divine dogma for all,* and extolled by the Spirit that which leads to salvation,* and most manifestly enlightened all the orthodox,* you indicated to all the faithful to glorify the One Word* as truly the Only Begotten of the all-unoriginate Father,* who grants the world great mercy. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O Spyridon, glory of the fathers,* you were truly shown to be meek and an heir to the land of the meek.* By the sinews of your wise and simple words* you strangled Arius, the most wicked and demented enemy, by divine grace.* And, having clarified the divine dogma for all,* and extolled by the Spirit that which leads to salvation,* and most manifestly enlightened all the orthodox,* you indicated to all the faithful to glorify the One Word* as truly the Only Begotten of the all-unoriginate Father,* who grants the world great mercy. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Having slain the carnal passions,* you raised the dead by the grace of God,* and changed a serpent into gold,* and restrained the raging of the river by thy prayer, O father,* Appearing to the afflicted emperor by night,* you healed him by drawing nigh to his heart when the Lord glorified you most gloriously.* We honour your memory with a mighty voice* and reverence the divine and sacred shrine of your relics,* from where flows forth a divine stream of healings and great mercy. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Having slain the carnal passions,* you raised the dead by the grace of God,* and changed a serpent into gold,* and restrained the raging of the river by thy prayer, O father,* Appearing to the afflicted emperor by night,* you healed him by drawing nigh to his heart when the Lord glorified you most gloriously.* We honour your memory with a mighty voice* and reverence the divine and sacred shrine of your relics,* from where flows forth a divine stream of healings and great mercy. Tone 1, Glory… O venerable father Spyridon, blessed and wise,* for the sake of the love of God you questioned the dead woman as though she were alive,* and transformed a serpent into gold for him that was beset by poverty,* and restrained the flow of the river, taking pity on the people,* and stood before the emperor as physician through the providence of God;* and, as His disciple, you raised up the dead,* and among many fathers made clear the Faith.*Enabled to do all things by Christ, who strengthens you,* now entreat Him that our souls be saved! Now… Tempest-tossed on the abyss of transgressions,* fleeing to the calm haven of your most pure supplication,* I cry out to you, O Theotokos:* Save me, O all-immaculate one, extending your mighty right hand* to your servant! Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 4 You enlightened the choir of the apostles with the Holy Spirit, О Christ God.* By them wash away the defilement of our sin, and have mercy on us. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Thy Holy Spirit revealed the illiterate disciples to be teachers, О Christ God,* and set at naught the deception of the pagans with their greatly eloquent harmony,* in that He is almighty. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. O martyrs of the Lord,* you animate sacrifices, noetic whole-burnt offerings, perfect offerings to God,* you lambs who know God and are known of Him,* and to whose fold the wolves have no entry:* Pray that with you we also may be tended by the water of peace. Tone 2, Glory… O father Spyridon, venerable and wise,* by your virtues have you been shown to be a divine treasure of hierarchs.* Being an intercessor of the Church, you cast out the chief of the heretics* and, in council, crushed the blasphemy of Arius to the earth.* Therefore, working wonders in word and deed,* beseech Christ that our souls be saved. Now… Like a fruitful olive tree,* the Virgin brought You forth as the Fruit of life,* bearing to the world, the fruit of rich and great mercy. Troparia Tone 1 You showed yourself a defender of the First Council and a worker of miracles. * You summoned the woman back from the grave and turned the snake into gold. * Angels came to minister beside you, O priestly father, * when you offered your ardent prayers. * Glory to Him who strengthened you! * Glory to Him who chose you! * Glory to Him who heals us through you! Glory… Now… You have borne the fire of the Godhead without being burned;* you have given birth to the Lord, the Source life,* O Mother of God and woman full of grace,* save all those who exalt you. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: You showed yourself a defender of the First Council and a worker of miracles. * You summoned the woman back from the grave and turned the snake into gold. * Angels came to minister beside you, O priestly father, * when you offered your ardent prayers. * Glory to Him who strengthened you! * Glory to Him who chose you! * Glory to Him who heals us through you! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: O all-holy father, enraptured by the love of Christ, * you soared on the wings of the Spirit to pure contemplation * which inspired your apostolic life, * and you became an altar of sacrifice, * beseeching the Lord that He may enlighten all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart understanding. verse: Hear these things, all you nations; give ear all you inhabitants of the world. (Psalm 28:4,2) Epistle Hebrews 10:35-11:7 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: The mouth of the just man shall meditate wisdom and his tongue shall speak judgment. verse: The law of his God is in his heart, and his steps will not falter. (Psalm 36:30,31) Gospel Mark 9:10-16 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Dec 11, 2024 - Our Venerable Father Daniel the Stylite.

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 11, 2024 Nativity Fast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Lifted up upon the Cross, pierced by a spear,* Your fingers bloodied, О supremely good Master, You signed our emancipation;* and tearing apart the record of the sins of Adam, our forefather,* You freed human nature.* О Compassionate One, we hymn Your goodness, which passes understanding. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. We hymn Your sufferings, О Jesus our Master:* the Cross, the spear and the reed, the sponge and the nails,* the beatings, the purple robe and the crown of thorns,* the spittings and mockery which You willingly endured.* I magnify Your long-suffering, О only Innocent One, Bestower of life,* and I glorify You with faith, О Lover of mankind. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. I bow down before Your precious Cross, kissing it with love, О Supremely good One,* and I glorify Your condescension, boundless mercy,* ineffable compassions and rich goodness, which pass understanding,* for thereby You have saved the race of mankind,* which was held fast in the darkness of transgressions.* Glory to Your crucifixion, О Christ! Tone 8 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 proclaim you to be, O Daniel?* An uprooter of the passions and planter of the virtues,* a true wonderworker, an intercessor for sinners,* a most valiant exorcist of demons, a beacon radiant with piety,* a dwelling place of the Spirit and champion of the Church.* Pray that our souls be saved. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. What shall we name you, O Daniel?* A faster, for you subjected the passions to your mind;* a sufferer, for you endured all manner of discomfort,* lifted high above the ground on your pillar;* a most diligent athlete and a most skilled physician.* Pray that our souls be saved. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. What shall we now call you, O Daniel?* A model for monastics and teacher of abstinence,* an adornment of the faithful and worker of healings,* a beacon shining forth light upon them that are in darkness,* a fellow citizen of the angels, equal in honour to them,* and an inhabitant of paradise and a heavenly man.* Pray that our souls be saved. Tone 8, Glory… Now… When she beheld the Lamb stretched out upon the Tree of the Cross,* the ewe-lamb cried out maternally, weeping and in pain:* O my Son, what is this strange thing that I see?* O Longsuffering One, how is it that You die,* You who as Lord give life to all, granting resurrection to mortals?* I glorify Your great condescension, O my God! Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 4 You have given Your Cross to us as an invincible weapon, О Christ;* and with it we triumph over the assaults of the alien one. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Ever possessing Your Cross as a help, О Christ,* we easily trample underfoot the snares of the enemy. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. As you have boldness before the Saviour, О saints,* unceasingly pray for us sinners,* asking remission of transgressions and great mercy for our souls. Tone 4, Glory… Now… The most pure one, beholding Christ, the Lover of mankind, crucified,* His side pierced by a lance,* cried out, lamenting: What is this, O my Son?* How have these thankless people rewarded You for the good things You have done for them?* Do You hasten to leave me childless, O most Beloved?* I marvel, O Compassionate One, at Your voluntary crucifixion! Troparia Tone 1 You became a column of endurance and rivalled the forefathers, O holy one,* becoming like Job in your sufferings and like Joseph in your trials,* and like the bodiless angels though you lived in the flesh.* O Daniel, our holy father,* intercede with Christ our God that He may save our souls. Glory… Now… O pure One, we have obtained your protection.* Through your intercession, we have been kept from harm* and surrounded at all times with the grace of your Son’s cross.* Therefore, we exalt you with great devotion. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: You became a column of endurance and rivalled the forefathers, O holy one,* becoming like Job in your sufferings and like Joseph in your trials,* and like the bodiless angels though you lived in the flesh.* O Daniel, our holy father,* intercede with Christ our God that He may save our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now ad forever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 8: You ascended your pillar like a star in the sky,* and you gave the light of good works to the world.* You dispersed the darkness of lies, O father,* and thus we now have recourse to you.* Make the unwaning Light of understanding dawn in our hearts, O blessed saint. 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 115:15,12) Epistle Hebrews 10:1-18 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 Mark 8:30-34 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Dec 10, 2024 - The Holy Martyrs Menas, Hermogenes, and Eugraphus.

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 10, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Emulating the Canaanite woman, О my soul,* touch Christ from behind, and cry out repeatedly:* Have mercy on me, О Master!* My body, like her daughter, is possessed by evil spirits, and it flails about.* Quench the burning of my flesh, I pray;* and, causing the disorderly seizures to cease,* mortify it by the fear of You,* by the prayers of her who conceived and gave birth to You, and of all the saints,* О greatly merciful Benefactor. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You once sent Jonah to the sinful Ninevites to preach to them, О Christ,* and, repenting, they transformed their anger into kindliness,* having been delivered from pernicious wrath.* Wherefore, send also Your mighty help to me, who am unworthy, О Lover of mankind,* that I may turn away from my countless offenses* and be guided to the path of repentance;* for I weep, groaning bitterly, that I may be delivered by Your mercy* from my many transgressions. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. О Compassionate One, who came into the world to save sinful men and call them to repentance:* In that You are full of tender compassion, have pity on me* who have angered You more than all others,* save me in Your goodness, guide me to the way of repentance,* and grant me thought of compunction, in Your goodness* making my heart steadfastly humble, simple, meek and guileless, О my Saviour,* in that You are full of loving-kindness. 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. All-glorious Martyr Menas,* when your heels were struck,* your eyes put out and your God-speaking tongue removed,* you endured with steadfastness, looking for divine rewards.* Therefore pray that God may grant peace and great mercy to our souls! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. The glorious Hermogenes* desired the severing of his hands and feet.* beholding the fire, he showed forth a greater burning of heart* as he clung to his God!* Now we pray to Him that He may grant peace and great mercy to our souls! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Your limbs were broken, wise saints;* You were cast into the depths of the sea!* having drowned the malice of the serpent,* you were guided by the hands of the Most High* to the calm haven of sweetness!* Therefore pray that God may grant peace and great mercy to our souls! Tone 4, Glory… Now… Grant me tears from the depths of my heart,* sighing from the depths of my soul, О Maiden,* and contrition and confession of the transgressions I have committed in this life,* that by your help, О all-pure one*, I may pass my life in repentance and receive remission. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 4 I wish to wash away the record of my sins with tears, O Lord,* and please You the rest of my life through repentance;* but the enemy deceives me and fights against my soul.* Save me, O Lord, before the end and I utterly perish. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Who, among the tempest-tossed, having taking refuge in Your harbour,* will not be saved O Lord?* Or who, that ails and falling down in Your infirmary, will not be healed?* O Maker of all that is, and Physician of the ailing,* save me, O Lord, before the end and I utterly perish Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. О Lover of mankind,* as One who has accepted the patience of the holy martyrs,* by their prayers, grant us great mercy. Tone 4, Glory… Now… Deliver us from our needs, O Mother of Christ God,* you who have given birth to the Creator of all,* that we all may cry out to you:* Rejoice, O you who alone are the intercessor for our souls! Troparia Tone 8 Through mortification and penance, * the holy martyrs of Christ have overcome the disorder of their burning passions. * During their lifetime they received the grace of healing the sick. * after their death they have the power of performing miracles. * It is indeed a great marvel that healing should come forth from mere bones. * glory to the Creator, to God alone. Glory… Now… O Mother of God, we honour you,* for you were seen to be higher than the angels* when you carried God in your womb. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle Hebrews 9:8-10,15-23 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Mark 8:22-26 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Dec 9, 2024 - The Conception of Saint Anna when she conceived the Most Holy Mother of God.

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 9, 2024 All-Night Vigil Feast. Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 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. Let Your 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Readings (1) Genesis 28:10-17; (2) Ezekiel 43:27-44:4; (3) Proverbs 9:1-11 Litiya 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 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. 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 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) 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. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING 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):

Dec 8, 2024 - Twenty-ninth Sunday after Pentecost, Octoechos Tone 4. Our Venerable Father Patapius.

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 8, 2024 Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading “Blessed is the man...” is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 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. 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! 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. Let Your 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. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O Saviour, with the angels we sing the praises of Your resurrection on the third day.* For the very ends of the universe have, thereby, been enlightened,* and we have been saved from the deceit of the enemy.* Therefore, we cry out to You,* Almighty Saviour, Giver of Life, and Lover of mankind:* Save us by Your resurrection. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O Christ our God, You have demolished the brazen gates of Hades.* You have broken asunder the bonds of death,* and lifted up the fallen human race.* Therefore, we cry out with one accord:* O Lord, who arose from the dead, glory to You! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Lord, Your birth from the Father is timeless and eternal;* Your incarnation from the Virgin is beyond the understanding of all,* and beyond the expression of our words.* Your descent into Hades and victory over Death* caused Satan and his angels to tremble with fear.* Your resurrection on the third day* brought to mankind incorruption and great mercy. 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. O father Patapius,* having quenched the burning of the assaults of the flesh with abstinence,* like Elijah of old you made your abode in the desert,* purifying your mind with unceasing prayers to God.* And pray now that He grant our souls* peace and great mercy. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O father Patapius,* you enrolled yourself in the choirs of fasters,* adorning yourself with dispassion;* and you made your abode in the mansions of the venerable,* where the light is unwaning and the Tree of Life stands.* And pray now that peace and great mercy* be granted our souls. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O father Patapius,* you shone forth as a beacon from Egypt,* enlightening the world with the splendours of your miracles,* and dispelling the gloom of soul-destroying infirmities,* and driving off the darkness of the demons.* And pray now that peace and great mercy* be granted our souls. Tone 4, Glory… 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. 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 4 In being lifted upon the cross, O Lord,* You abolished the curse which we had inherited from our fathers.* By going down into Hades,* You freed from eternal captivity those imprisoned there,* and granted incorruption to mankind.* 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. Glory… Now… O most pure Virgin, hear the petitions of your servants.* Remove the burdens which oppress us,* and deliver us from our sorrows;* for you are the only firm and constant support on whom we rely.* O Mother of God, never permit us who call upon you* to be overwhelmed by our cares.* Hasten to fulfil the supplications of all who, in faith, cry out to you:* Rejoice, O Lady, helper of all mankind,* the joy, the refuge, and the salvation of our souls. Troparia 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.” Tone 8, Glory… The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O father,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh, which passes,* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* and so, O Venerable Patapius,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. 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! GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 4 Troparia, 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.” (2) Tone 8, Glory… The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O father,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh, which passes,* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* and so, O Venerable Patapius,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. 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! Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 Looking into the entrance of the tomb,* the Myrrh-bearing women were unable to endure the bright radiance of the Angel,* trembling in awe they said;* How is it that He who has opened Paradise to the Thief hath been stolen?* How is it that He who before His passion proclaimed His Arising has been raised?* Truly Christ God has arisen, granting those in Hades life and resurrection. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. Mortal men laid in a new tomb* the One who through a word established the ends of earth,* for You, O Saviour, willingly endured the Cross,* whereby You conquered the adversary, and despoiled death,* for which cause all those in Hades extol Your life-giving Arising saying* Christ, the giver of life, has arisen and abides to the ages. Glory… Now… As he contemplated that which was beyond nature* Joseph was struck with wonder, O Theotokos, at you conception without seed.* He contemplated the mysterious dew upon the fleece,* the bush unburnt by fire,* Aaron’s rod which budded.* Thus your Betrothed and guardian bore witness and cried to the priests saying:* A Virgin bears a child,* and after child-birth remains yet a virgin. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 O Saviour, You arose from Hades as immortal,* raising the world together with You by Your might, O Christ our God.* With strength You have overthrown the dominion of death,* revealing the Resurrection to all, O Merciful one.* Wherefore we also glorify You, O only Lover of mankind. I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. Gabriel radiant in white vestments descended from the heights above,* and approaching the rock upon which the Rock of life was lying,* cried to the weeping women saying:* Cease your cries of lamentation;* for you have now obtained merciful compassion.* Take courage, for the One you seek is truly risen.* Therefore, cry to the Apostles telling them that the Lord has arisen,* to worship the risen One;* and having received gladness, to take courage, together with Eve. Glory… Now… All the choirs of Angels were struck with wonder, O Pure Virgin,* at the awesome mystery of your conception.* How can the One who holds all things in place with only a nod,* now be held in your arms as a man?* How can the Eternal accept a beginning?* How can the One who nourishes everything that has breath by His ineffable goodness,* be suckled at your breast?* And upon seeing these things, with hymns they glorify you* as truly the Mother of God. Polyeleos Evoglitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 4 The Myrrh-bearing women hastened to proclaim to the Apostles* the news of Your wondrous Rising, O Christ:* that as God You have arisen,* granting the world great mercy. Gradual Hymns, Tone 4 Antiphon 1 From my youth do many passions war against me;* but do You Yourself defend* and save me, O my Saviour. You haters of Sion shall be shamed by the Lord;* for like grass, by the fire* shall you be withered. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit, every soul is quickened,* and, through cleansing, is exalted* and made radiant* by the Triple Unity in a hidden sacred manner. Antiphon 2 From the depths of my soul* I have cried to You fervently, O Lord;* let Your divine ears be attentive to me. Everyone who has set their hope in the Lord,* is higher than all those* who mourn. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit* the streams of grace swell up;* watering all creation* engendering life. Antiphon 3 Let my heart be raised to You, O Lord;* and let none of the pleasures of the world lure me* to weakness. As one that has tender love for one’s mother;* so should we have even more fervent love* for the Lord. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit comes an abundance of divine knowledge,* contemplation and wisdom;* for by Him the Word unveils* all the Father’s teachings. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Arise, O Lord: help us,* and redeem us for Your name’s sake. verse: We heard with our own ears, O God, our fathers have told us the story of the things You did in days long ago. Let everything that lives, Tone 4 Gospel John 20:1-10 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 4 Ode 1 Irmos: Through the Red Sea, as on the dry land,* old Israel passed on with unmoistened foot;* crosswise, in the wilderness, Moses held up his arms* and they routed Amalek’s might. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As good and all-powerful, O Lord, you were lifted up on the immaculate tree of your cross, healing by the tree our utter destruction, setting right our defection. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. In your body in the tomb, as God with your soul in Hell, with the Thief in Paradise, you were yet, O Christ, on the throne with the Father and the Spirit, all things filling, and infinite. Glory… Now… You conceived the Son of God without seed, by the Father’s purpose, from the divine Spirit; you bore in flesh the one from the Father without mother: through us, out of you, without father. 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: Your Church, O Christ, makes merry in you, crying aloud:* You are my strength, O Lord, my refuge, my firm foundation. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The tree of life, the true and intellectual vine, hangs upon the cross pouring forth to all the elixir of life. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As a great one and fearful, demolishing utterly the insolence of Hell, as God incorruptible, now you have risen in the flesh. Glory… Now… You only, O Mother of God, are the friend who procures the good things beyond nature for those upon earth and therefore we bring to you our “Hail.” 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! Ode 4 Irmos: Seeing you the Sun of Righteousness* lifted high on the cross,* with good reason your Church stood still in her course and exclaimed:* Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You went up on the Cross, to the Passion of your pure flesh worn of your own will, thus healing my passions. Therefore we cry to you: Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Lord, death tasted of your life-giving, sinless flesh and deservedly was slain. But we cry to you: Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory… Now… You bore a child, O Virgin, without a man, and after the birth you were discerned as still a virgin; therefore in faith unwavering we cry in never silent voices: Hail to you, our Lady. 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: Lord, my light, you have come into the world;* O holy light, turn from the darkness of ignorance all who sing to you in faith. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. In compassion, O Lord, you came down to the earth; hanging upon the tree you raised up the fallen nature of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Christ, you bore yourself the reproach of my sins; you loosed the pangs of death, Compassionate, in your holy resurrection. Glory… Now… We thrust you forward as an unbreakable shield in face of our enemies; we have gained you, Bride of God, as anchor and hope of our salvation. 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: I will sacrifice to you, O Lord, with the voice of praise:* so cries your Church to you,* purified from demons’ gore* through the blood which flows in pity from your side. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Girded with power you went up on the cross and came to grips with the tyrant and as God you dashed him down from the heights and raised up Adam with your invincible hand. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You are risen, O Christ, from the tomb in dazzling beauty of lightning flash, scattering to the winds by your power divine every one of your enemies. As God you have filled all things with gladness. Glory… Now… O wonder of all wonders, newest and strangest, that a virgin, knowing no man, conceived in the womb him who holds the whole universe in his hands and suffered no straitening. 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 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. Ikos Today Christ, the giver of life, has risen from the dead, come after three days from the tomb; by his might he has smashed the doors of death, put Hell to death and crushed death’s sting and Adam with Eve set free. Let all of us born of the earth sing to him, in thankfulness fervently cry out his praise. For he, the lone strong One, on the third day as God and as Lord has risen. Ode 7 Irmos: In a Persian furnace three children of Abraham were set on fire* but more than in the flames they blazed in loving desire to God, and cried:* Blessed are you, O Lord,* in the temple of your glory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Washed in Christ’s divine blood, mankind has been called to incorruption and sings in thanksgiving: Blessed are you, O Lord, in the temple of your glory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your tomb, O Christ, declares itself life-bearing, fairer far than Paradise, more radiant than any kingly hall, fount of our resurrection. Glory… Now… Hail, tabernacle of the Most High, hallowed and sacred. Joy is given through you, O Mother of God, to those who cry to you: Blessed are you amongst women, All-holy Lady. 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: Daniel, with hands outspread in the den,* stopped the gaping jaws of the lions;* the three children, lovers of God,* clothed in the virtue of godliness,* quenched the power of the fire and sang aloud:* Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. With hands outspread on the cross, O Lord, you gathered together the nations and showed them to be one Church praising you, with those on earth and those in heaven in harmony singing: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As lightning flashing, in the unapproachable light of the resurrection, the white-robed angel appeared to the women and cried: Why do you seek the living in the tomb as dead? Christ is risen indeed and we cry to him: All you his works, sing praises to the Lord. Glory… Now… You alone, among all the families of the earth, are revealed as Mother of God; wholly without stain, unharmed by the fire of the unapproachable light, you became the dwelling-place of the Godhead. We all bless you, therefore, Mary, God’s bride. 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: From you, O Virgin, the mountain unhewn,* is taken the stone uncut by human hands:* Christ the cornerstone, disparate natures joining together.* Therefore, we rejoice and magnify you, Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Wholly you have taken me up entire into union without confusion through your great mercy, my God, giving me salvation in full through your suffering endured on the cross in the flesh. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Gazing upon your opened tomb and upon the linen clothes, within which God had lain, left empty by your resurrection, your disciples said with the angel: The Lord is risen indeed. Glory… Now… All we the faithful worship the one divine nature but Trinity of persons; persons unconfounded, equal in power and equal in honour, we reverently magnify. 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 (Gospel) When Mary Magdalene said they have carried away my Lord,* Peter and the other disciple whom Jesus loved hastened to the grave.* They both came and found the wrappings inside the tomb,* and the cloth, which was on His head, lying aside.* The disciples remained silent until they truly beheld Christ. Glory… Now… O most merciful Christ,* You performed wondrous deeds for my sake.* You were born of a virgin Maiden in a manner beyond description;* You suffered the crucifixion and death;* and You rose in glory, releasing our nature from death.* Therefore, glory to Your majesty and power, O Christ. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 4 O all-powerful Lord,* Who endured the Cross and death,* and arose from the dead,* we glorify Your Holy Resurrection. By Your Cross, O Christ, You have delivered us from the ancient curse,* and by Your death You have conquered the devil who tyrannized our nature.* By Your arising You have filled all things with joy,* wherefore we cry to You:* O Lord risen from the dead, glory be to You! O Christ the Saviour,* with Your Cross, guide us to Your truth,* and deliver us from the snares of the enemy;* O You who are risen from the dead* raise us also who have fallen through sin,* by the stretching out of Your hand,* O Lord, at the behest of the prayers of Your Saints. Without departing from Your Father’s bosom,* in Your tender compassion, You descended to earth,* O Only-begotten Word of God,* without change becoming man.* While You are impassible in Your divinity,* You suffered the Cross and death in the flesh;* and rising from the dead You have granted immortality to the race of mankind,* as You alone are all-powerful. You endured death in the flesh* thereby ensuring us of immortality,* and You abided within a tomb,* thereby freeing us from Hades,* and raising us up with together with Yourself,* suffering as a man, but rising as God,* wherefore we cry to You the Lover of mankind:* O Lord giver of life, glory be to You. The rocks were rent asunder, O Saviour,* when Your Cross was set upon Golgotha;* the gate-keepers of Hades were smitten with terror,* when You were laid in the sepulchre as One dead;* for abolishing the stronghold of death,* You have granted incorruption to all the dead by Your Resurrection,* O Lord and Saviour,* giver of life, glory be to You! The women longed to see Your Resurrection, O Christ God;* Mary Magdalene having come in anticipation* found the stone rolled away from the tomb,* with an Angel seated upon it, saying:* Why do you seek the living among the dead?* He has arisen as God, that He may save all things. Tell us, O Jews, where is Jesus, whom you have thought to guard?* Where is He whom you placed in the grave, sealing it with the stone?* Give back the dead, you who denied life;* give back the buried One or else believe in the Risen One.* Though you keep silent about the Lord’s Rising,* the stones cry out aloud,* above all the one that was rolled away from the tomb.* Great is Your mercy!* Great the mystery of Your dispensation!* Our Saviour, glory be to You! Tone 7, Glory… Behold the end of night and dawn of day.* Why have you stood at the grave, O Mary?* Great darkness covered your mind, so you asked the angel:* Where has Jesus been placed?* Behold, the disciples who hastened to the tomb* saw a sign of His resurrection in the burial wrappings and the cloth* and remembered what was said about Him in the Scriptures.* Therefore, we who believe through them* praise You, O Christ, the Giver of life. 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING 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 things He may have the preeminence. 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 (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Dec 7, 2024 - Our Holy Father Ambrose, Bishop of Milan.

Sat, 07 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 7, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Adorning the seat of government with your virtues,* you likewise received the hierarchal office through divine inspiration.* Having been a faithful steward of grace in both, O Ambrose,* you inherited a twofold crown. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. In abstinence and sorrow, in many vigils and in lengthy prayers,* you cleansed soul and body, O divinely wise one;* henceforth manifest as a chosen vessel of Christ God, equal to the apostles,* you received heavenly gifts. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. As Nathan reproved David,* so you boldly reproved the pious emperor who once had sinned, O most blessed Ambrose,* and you openly cut him off from the Church;* and having chastised him in godly manner with a penance,* you numbered him again among you flock. Tone 3 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Having endured wounds, fetters and diverse tortures, suffering mightily,* the valiant martyrs were brought to their divine inheritance which is truly devoid of pain,* the heritage of their pangs. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. О holy hierarchs of the Lord, who gave utterance to the divine discourse of piety,* you refuted all the arguments of the heretics* and showed yourselves to be paragons for all the faithful;* wherefore, you are honoured. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. While in your material bodies,* you emulated the ranks of the immaterial and incorporeal beings, О God-bearing fathers,* most gloriously exhibiting their manner of life;* wherefore, you dwell in their habitations. Tone 3, Glory… Now… O Lady most honourable,* how could we but be rapt in wonder* at your giving birth to the Incarnate God* who, without a mother, was born of a Father before all ages?* You gave Him birth in the flesh without a father,* without a man’s instrumentality.* He is God and man whose two natures are intact,* neither one losing any of its properties.* Therefore, O Virgin Mother,* intercede with Him to save the souls* of those who believe and profess in true faith* that you are the Mother of God. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 3 Made steadfast by faith, strengthened by hope,* and spiritually united by the love of Your Cross, О Lord,* Your martyrs put an end to the tyranny of the enemy and have received crowns;* and with the incorporeal ones they pray on behalf of our souls. Blessed are they whom You have chosen* and have taken to Yourslelf, О Lord, All things human, which endure not after death, are vain.* Our wealth will not remain, our glory will not go with us upon the way:* for when death comes, all these things will fade away.* Therefore let us cry to Christ the immortal King:* Grant rest to our departed brethren* and grant them to dwell with the joyous. Their souls shall dwell* amid good things. O race of mankind, why do you trouble yourself in vain?* The path on which you run is short.* Our life is but smoke, vapour, ashes and dust;* it appears but briefly, and then vanishes.* Therefore let us cry to Christ the immortal King:* Grant rest to our departed brethren* and grant them to dwell with the joyous. Tone 3, Glory… Now… O Theotokos, holy among women, O Mother unwedded:* entreat the King and God whom you bore,* that He save us, insofar as He is the Lover of mankind. Troparia Tone 4 The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop, Ambrose.* Intercede with Christ, our God,* for the salvation of our souls. 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,* and saved our souls from death. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop, Ambrose.* Intercede with Christ, our God,* for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: O thunder of justice, spiritual trumpet,* planter of faith and destroyer of heresies,* servant of the Trinity, great hierarch Ambrose,* forever standing in the company of the angels,* pray without ceasing for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart understanding. verse: Hear these things, all you nations; give ear all you inhabitants of the world. (Psalm 28:4,2) Epistle Ephesians 2:11-13 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: The mouth of the just man shall meditate wisdom and his tongue shall speak judgment. verse: The law of his God is in his heart, and his steps will not falter. (Psalm 36:30,31) Gospel Luke 13:18-29 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Dec 6, 2024 - Our Holy Father Nicholas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia.

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 6, 2024 Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS WITH LYTIA ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! O holy Nicholas, Bishop of Christ,* you lived your life with people of Myra.* But since your spirit was anointed,* your fragrance of sanctity was known by all.* Now you anoint the faithful who show their love for you.* O Father, deliver us from all distress and sorrow* as you pray to the Lord for us. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. O holy Nicholas, true servant of Christ,* you are truly a protector of your faithful flock;* and whenever you were asked for help,* you gladly assisted those who sought your aid.* Now you are also ready by day or by night* to deliver us from all distress and sorrow. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. When you appeared in a dream to Constantine the King,* you gave him this warning:* Release at once from prison those you have unjustly confined,* for they are innocent;* no murder did they commit as you claim.* O King, listen to me, or else I shall call upon the Lord. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O holy Nicholas, holy preacher of Christ,* always ready to help all on land or at sea.* Whether they be near or far, you have compassion for all.* You are a precious helper;* therefore, we who gather here ask you to pray to the Lord* that we be delivered from all distress and sorrow. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. What crowns of praise shall we confer upon the saintly Nicholas?* Once present in the flesh in Myra,* he is present in spirit to all who love him purely.* He is the leader and defender of everyone,* a comforter in distress and a haven of all in danger,* a pillar of piety and conqueror for believers.* For his sake, Christ overcame enemies and shows us great mercy. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. What crowns of praise shall we confer upon the saintly Nicholas?* Once present in the flesh in Myra,* he is present in spirit to all who love him purely.* He is the leader and defender of everyone,* a comforter in distress and a haven of all in danger,* a pillar of piety and conqueror for believers.* For his sake, Christ overcame enemies and shows us great mercy. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. With what songs of praise shall we extol the saintly Nicholas?* He is the foe of wickedness. * He is an outstanding leader,* a great defender and teacher of the Church.* He confounds all who show dishonour.* He is the refuter of Arius and his companions.* Because of him, Christ put down their ragings and showed great mercy. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. With what hymns of prophecy shall we extol the saintly Nicholas?* Living in the present, he saw far into the future.* He spoke truly about faraway things as though they were near.* He oversees the whole world and delivers the afflicted.* He appeared in a dream to the God-wise king.* He delivered prisoners who were unjustly accused of murder.* Today he grants us the mercy of Christ. Tone 6, Glory… We have gathered to celebrate and to praise with song* the model of bishops and a glory to the fathers,* a fountain of miracles and a great helper of believers.* Let us sing to the saintly Nicholas:* Rejoice, O Protector of Myra* who was revered as its leader and strongest pillar.* Rejoice, O Radiant Star whose light of miracles shines throughout the world.* Rejoice, O Divine Joy to those in sorrow.* Rejoice, O Defender of those who are oppressed;* for even now, all-holy Nicholas,* you still pray to God for us who celebrate your feast with faith* and who honour you with zeal and joy. Now… O Cave, prepare yourself to receive the Mother* who bears Christ within her womb.* O Manger, receive the Word who destroyed the sins of all.* O Shepherds, keep watch and then bear witness to the awesome wonder.* O Magi, come from Persia,* and bring your gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the King.* For the Lord has appeared from a virgin Mother;* yet she bowed to Him as a servant* and spoke to Him within her bosom, saying:* How were You conceived in me?* How did You grow in me, my God and Saviour? Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Readings (1) Proverbs 3:13-16; (2) Proverbs 8:22-30; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15 Lytia Tone 2 O holy Father Nicholas,* Christ has shown you to be the model of faith.* Your humility inspired all in your flock.* From Myra, your piety shines throughout the world.* You are known as the protector of widows and orphans.* Now we ask your unceasing prayer for the salvation of our souls. O holy Father Nicholas,* your relics poured out myrrh and protected Myra.* While you lived, you appeared in a dream to the king;* by this appearance you freed from lashes, prison, and death,* those who were condemned unjustly;* now manifest yourself as you did then.* Implore Christ in behalf of our souls. Even if the city of Myra were silenced, O holy Nicholas,* hymns of praise would be sung to you:* by the entire world which has been enlightened by your brightness;* by the multitude of your magnificent miracles;* and by the condemned who were saved by you.* We also join the inhabitants of your city and cry to you:* Intercede for the salvation of our souls. Tone 4 You anoint with the myrrh of the Holy Spirit, O Nicholas.* You send down flowers fresh with the fragrance of the divine goodness.* You became an imitator of the apostles of Christ.* Throughout the world, the sound of your miracles is heard, O holy Father.* Despite the great distances,* you appeared In a dream, as very near,* to deliver from death those who had fallen under the unjust sentence,* and to save from many dangers those who seek your protection.* By your prayers, also deliver us from misfortunes,* for we sing your praises unceasingly. Tone 8 The fruit of your good works, O holy Father,* has brought joy to the hearts of the faithful.* Who indeed has not heard of your wonderful works* and not admired your patience and humility,* the joy with which you fill the poor,* and the compassion that you show to the afflicted?* You have truly been an admirable example for all.* And now that your unfading crown has been placed on you,* O holy Nicholas, pray for our souls. O Nicholas, while on earth you lived for the glory of the Lord;* now He has glorified you in the heavenly and true life.* Since you have obtained favour in his sight, implore Him to save our souls. Tone 6, Glory… O good and faithful worker* in the vineyard of Christ,* you endured the hardships of daily labours;* you did not complain of those who worked less than you.* You increased the talent given you.* Therefore, the gates of heaven opened to you,* and now you share the joy of the Lord.* O holy Nicholas, pray for us. Now… O Zion, be happy; rejoice, O Jerusalem,* the city of Christ our God; * welcome the Creator who rests in a manger in a cave.* Open your gates, Jerusalem, and I will enter* so that I may see Him who holds all creation in his hand,* even though He lies in a manger wrapped in swaddling clothes.* The angels ever praise this life-giving Lord* who is the only Saviour of all. Aposticha Tone 5 Rejoice, O priestly leader, spotless vessel of virtue,* model of divine priesthood, great shepherd of your flock,* bearer of the torch of victory.* You hear the prayers of those who call upon you;* you grant petitions of the poor;* you rescue all who praise your name.* Now we ask you to Implore Christ* that He may shower abundant mercy on the world. Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of His faithful. Rejoice, O saintly Father, temple of the Trinity;* pillar of the Church, protector of the faithful,* helper of all in trouble.* You are a star whose rays of prayer dispel the darkest trouble.* You are a quiet harbour for the storm-tossed,* for all adrift in the sea of life.* Pray to Christ to save our souls with his great mercy. Your priests shall be clothed with holiness; your faithful shall ring out their joy. Rejoice, O zealous man of God.* You appeared in a dream,* and you saved from death the ones unjustly sentenced.* You are a fountain in Myra, overflowing with scented myrrh.* You inspire us to keep from sin.* You are a sword that cuts the woods of error* you proved Arius to be a false teacher.* Pray to Christ to save our souls with His great mercy. Tone 6, Glory… O man of God, O faithful servant of the Lord,* you are a chosen vessel filled with desire for God.* You are a pillar and a foundation of the Church;* you are an heir of the kingdom.* O holy Father Nicholas, pray to the Lord for us. Now… O Virgin without husband, from where do you come?* Who gave you birth; who is your mother?* How can you cradle the Creator in your arms?* How did you accomplish virgin-birth?* Most pure Lady, we see in you great wonders,* awesome mysteries fulfilled on earth.* We shall prepare a worthy cave for you.* We shall ask the heavens for a star.* We shall ask the Magi to come from the east to the west* to behold your new-born Child in a manger,* to behold the Saviour of all. Troparia Tone 4 The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop Nicholas.* Intercede with Christ our God* for the salvation of our souls. (2) 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. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop Nicholas.* Intercede with Christ our God* for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 3: In Myra, O holy one, you proved yourself a priest.* You fulfilled the Gospel of Christ, O venerable father.* You laid down your soul for your people* and saved the innocent from death.* And so you were sanctified as a great initiate of God’s grace. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord, and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice, when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle Hebrews 13:17-21 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Your priests shall clothe themselves with justice, and Your venerable ones shall rejoice. verse: For the Lord has chosen Sion; he has chosen it for His dwelling. (Psalm 131:9,13) Gospel Luke 6:17-23 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Dec 5, 2024 - Our Venerable and God-bearing Father Sabbas the Sanctified.

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 5, 2024 Polyeleos Feast. Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 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! Let Your 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! 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! 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! 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! 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! 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! 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! 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. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Readings (1) Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9; (2) Wisdom of Solomon 5:15-6:3; (3) Wisdom of Solomon 4:7-15 Aposticha 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! 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 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... 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! DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING 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):

Dec 4, 2024 - The Great-Martyr Barbara; Our Venerable Father John of Damascus.

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 4, 2024 Saint with Six Stichera. Nativity Fast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 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! 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! 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! Tone 8 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! 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! 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! 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. Now… I lift the eyes of my heart to you, O Lady;* despise not my small sigh,* but in the hour when your Son shall come to judge the earth,* be my helper and deliverer! Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 8 All-wise father John, you enlighten the Church with song inspired by God.* Through the operation of the Holy Spirit, God our Father made you another David.* Your hymns lead us to the Lord, blessed one. Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; who greatly delights in His commandments! Glorious father John, in the midst of worldly tumult,* you attained the peace of Christ, righteous one.* By godly action and contemplation you were enlightened with His wisdom.* You were made rich in heavenly things,* with which you enlighten the faithful, all-blessed one! Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints! Come, let us assemble in the temple of God today,* praising the righteous John with joyful song.* He is truly a divine lamp; he enables us to see the true Light.* How great is Your goodness, compassionate Lord!* Through him we have learned to glorify You, only Good One! 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… Theotokion, or this Stavrotheotokion: Theotokos, you are the true vine* who blossomed for us the fruit of life:* implore Him we pray you, Lady,* together with the apostles and all the saints,* that He may have mercy on our souls! Troparia 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! 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… When the Mother beheld upon the cross* the Lamb, the Shepherd, and the Saviour of the world,* she exclaimed tearfully:* The world rejoices at the sight of its redemption,* but my heart is afire as I see Your pain on the cross,* which You accept for the sake of all, O my Son and my God! DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Troparion, Tone 8: Guide of orthodoxy, teacher of piety and purity,* luminary of the world, inspired adornment of hierarchs (or: monks), O wise John,* you have enlightened all by your teachings, O spiritual trumpet.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: You took delight in self-control, O wise one,* and you put the desires of the flesh to sleep.* You were seen to have grown in faith;* and, like the Tree of Life in Paradise, you flourished, O holy father, John. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle Hebrews 5:11-6:8 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 21:5-7, 10-11, 20-24 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Dec 3, 2024 - The Holy Prophet Zephaniah.

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 3, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 3 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Perceiving in me a slothfulness toward profitable works,* the serpent of many shapes transforms itself,* luring me towards ever more bitter evils,* showing me the sweetness of sin,* by his own bitter activity,* which is opposed to the commandments of God.* And taking advantage of my wicked character,* forcing me to accept evils as good. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Having eagerly trodden the whole path of iniquity and sin,* and utterly departed from that which is straight,* I have now drawn nigh to the gates of death;* and, hemmed in, I cry aloud: О my supremely good Jesus, O path of our life,* turn me to the broad expanse of true repentance;* save and grant me correction;* and before my death, grant me divine forgiveness! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. I have been slain by diverse sins, by multitudes of transgressions and great misdeeds;* and I lie dead, truly helpless.* Only my hope in Your tender compassion remains alive, О Christ,* who grants both breath and life to the dead and slays the passions which kill us.* Wherefore, going before me, rescue me from everlasting death. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. As a divine prophet, herald and proclaimer of the words of God,* receiving the radiance of divine splendour in purity of mind,* you were revealed as the divinely inspired mouth of the Spirit!* You proclaim the things He revealed to you,* telling all the nations, most honoured one, * of the Kingdom of Christ and the salvation that is given to men.* Entreat Him to save and enlighten our souls! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You fittingly shine forth in the vision of God,* divinely inspired one,* honoured with grace and a chief place among the prophets,* receiving the blessings of God!* Now that you have boldness towards the all good one and sympathy for us,* we honour you for having the eloquence of God,* being honourable and pleasing to him.* Never cease to pray on behalf of those who praise you in faith,* that He may deliver us from misfortunes and save our souls! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You revealed Your prophet, Immortal One,* to be a living cloud pouring forth the water of eternal life!* You sent him forth, giving him freely the all-holy Spirit,* consubstantial with You, the Almighty Father,* and Your Son, who shone forth from Your Essence,* by which he prophesied the saving coming of Christ our God,* proclaiming salvation to all the nations! Tone 3, Glory… Now… О blessed Mary, divinely joyous Maiden, cloud of the never-waning Light:* Shine the light of repentance upon me who am mindlessly stuck fast in the darkness of sin;* and by your supplications deliver me* from the fire of Gehenna and the unremitting darkness, О most pure Virgin,* and show me to share in the never-setting day,* for I flee beneath your protection. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 3 Our evening hymn do we bring to You, O Christ,* with incense and spiritual songs,* have mercy on us and save our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Save me, O Lord my God for You are the salvation of all:* The storm of the passions disquiets me,* and the yoke of my transgressions weighs heavily upon me.* Stretch out Your helping hand and lead me up to the light of compunction,* for You alone are compassionate and the Lover of mankind. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Great is the power of Your martyrs, О Christ;* for while lying in their graves they drive evil spirits away;* and, having struggled for piety with their faith in the Trinity,* they abolished the authority of the enemy. Tone 3, Glory… Now… O Theotokos, holy among women, O Mother unwedded:* entreat the King and God whom you bore,* that He save us, insofar as He is the Lover of mankind. Troparia Tone 2 As we celebrate the memory of Your prophet, Zephaniah,* O Lord, we beseech You through him: “Save our souls!” Glory… Now… O Mother of God and virgin forever,* through you we have been made to share the divine nature;* you have given birth for us to the incarnate God.* Therefore, we all exalt you with great devotion. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: As we celebrate the memory of Your prophet, Zephaniah,* O Lord, we beseech You through him: “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 4: Enlightened by the spirit* your pure heart, having seen the distant in the present* became a vessel of brilliant prophecy;* and so we honour you, O blessed and glorious prophet, Zephaniah. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 You are a priest for ever according to the order of Melchizedek. verse: The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies the footstool of your feet.” (Psalm 109:4,1) Epistle Hebrews 4:1-13 Alleluia, Tone 5 verse: Moses and Aaron are among His priests and Samuel among those who call upon His name. verse: Light is risen for the just and joy for the righteous of heart. (Psalm 96:11) Gospel Luke 21:12-19 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Dec 2, 2024 - The Holy Prophet Habakkuk; Blessed Hieromartyr Ivan Sleziuk, Bishop.

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 2, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted tonight. At Psalm 140 Tone 3 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O heavenly father, accept me as You did the repentant prodigal son,* though I sin greatly and embitter You,* the good Master who are merciful by nature;* and make me one of Your hirelings. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. I have passed the time of my life in slothfulness* and have drawn nigh to the end, wretch that I am.* I give no thought to the judgment which awaits me,* nor to my falling away from God.* But, having turned me back to You, О Saviour,* rescue me from them. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. From Gehenna, from the gnashing of teeth and every other eternal retribution* deliver my lowly soul, О supremely good Lord;* that with faith I may hymn the merciful God,* who by nature is the Lover of mankind. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. The wondrous Habakkuk became wholly divine,* receiving the outpouring of the Spirit!* Seeing the dishonesty of the judges and their unjust judgment* he was displeased,* exhibiting the rightness of the justice of Christ the Master,* with divine love and burning thoughts,* enflamed with righteous anger! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. The honoured Habakkuk, standing on divine watch,* heard the ineffable mystery of your coming to us, O Christ!* He manifestly prophesied the preaching to come about You,* foreseeing the all-wise apostles as horses trampling the sea* of the many nations of the gentiles. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Rejoicing in the Lord God, your Saviour,* divinely eloquent and glorious one,* you were filled with gladness, receiving the outpouring of heavenly radiance;* spiritually illumined with deifying light!* By your prayers deliver from perils and misfortunes* those who celebrate your most glorious memory with faith! Tone 3, Glory… Now… О most pure one, who has dominion over all creation,* by your fervent intercession and maternal prayer free my mind,* which is grievously beset by the passions,* and enslave me to your Son and God. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 3 Our evening hymn do we bring to You, O Christ,* with incense and spiritual songs,* have mercy on us and save our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Save me, O Lord my God, for You are the salvation of all:* The storm of the passions disquiets me,* and the yoke of my transgressions weighs heavily upon me.* Stretch out Your helping hand and lead me up to the light of compunction,* for You alone are compassionate and the Lover of mankind. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Great is the power of Your Cross, О Lord!* For it was planted in one place, yet works throughout the whole world;* making apostles of fishermen and martyrs of the heathen,* that they might pray for our souls. Tone 3, Glory… Now… О Lady, intercessor for all who pray to you:* in you we find boldness, of you do we boast, and in you have we place all our hope.* Entreat Him who was born from you* on behalf of your unprofitable servants. Troparia Tone 2 Troparion, Tone 2: As we celebrate the memory of Your prophet, Habakkuk,* O Lord, we beseech You through him: “Save our souls!” Glory… Now… O Mother of God, you are a fountain of mercy;* count us worthy of your compassion;* look upon a people who have sinned;* manifest your power as you always do.* Because of our trust in you, we cry out to you* as once did Gabriel, the commander of the angels. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: As we celebrate the memory of Your prophet, Habakkuk,* O Lord, we beseech You through him: “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 4: Enlightened by the spirit* your pure heart, having seen the distant in the present* became a vessel of brilliant prophecy;* and so we honour you, O blessed and glorious prophet, Habakkuk. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 You are a priest for ever according to the order of Melchizedek. verse: The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies the footstool of your feet.” (Psalm 109:4,1) Epistle Hebrews 3:5-11, 17-19 Alleluia, Tone 5 verse: Moses and Aaron are among His priests and Samuel among those who call upon His name. verse: Light is risen for the just and joy for the righteous of heart. (Psalm 96:11) Gospel Luke 20:27-44 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Dec 1, 2024 - Twenty-eighth Sunday after Pentecost, Octoechos Tone 3. The Holy Prophet Nahum.

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dec 1, 2024 Nativity Fast. The Epistle and Gospel are taken from the 30th Sunday after Pentecost. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 3 Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name. By Your cross, O Christ our Saviour,* the power of Death has been vanquished* and the deceit of the devil has been destroyed.* Therefore, mankind, saved by faith,* offers You hymns of praise forever. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me. O Lord, all creation has been enlightened by Your resurrection,* and paradise has been reopened;* therefore, all creation extols You* and offers You hymns of praise forever. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! I glorify the power of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit;* and I praise the dominion of the undivided Divinity,* the consubstantial Trinity,* who reigns forever and ever. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. We adore Your precious cross, O Christ,* and with hymns of praise we glorify Your resurrection;* for by Your wounds we have all been healed. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let us sing the praises of the Saviour,* who was incarnate of the Virgin;* for He was crucified for our sake,* and on the third day He arose from the dead,* granting us His great mercy. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Christ descended into Hades and announced to those confined there:* Take courage, for today I have conquered death.* I am the Resurrection, the One who will set you free.* I shattered the gates of the realm of death. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Christ our God, we unworthily stand in Your most pure temple,* and offer to You our evening hymns.* From the depths of our souls we cry out to You:* O Lover of mankind, who has enlightened the world* by Your resurrection on the third day,* deliver Your people from the hands of Your enemies. Tone 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 grace of the Holy Spirit* dwelt within you, prophet of God,* making you a radiantly shining beacon with its light!* Through you, He preached to Nineveh the great things that were to come! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Nahum, you were revealed to be a light-bearing cloud,* letting fall a shower of divine knowledge!* Prophet of God, you gave the city of Nineveh the judgment of God to drink,* for it was sick with impiety! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You were a partaker of incorruptible glory and ineffable renown,* unutterable joy and divine sweetness!* Divinely inspired Nahum, prophet of God,* pray for us to the Master of all! Tone 3, Glory… Now… O Lady most honourable,* how could we but be rapt in wonder* at your giving birth to the Incarnate God* who, without a mother, was born of a Father before all ages?* You gave Him birth in the flesh without a father,* without a man’s instrumentality.* He is God and man whose two natures are intact,* neither one losing any of its properties.* Therefore, O Virgin Mother,* intercede with Him to save the souls* of those who believe and profess in true faith* that you are the Mother of God. Aposticha Tone 3 O Christ, who darkened the sun by Your passion* and enlightened all creation by Your resurrection,* accept our evening prayer; for You love mankind. The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength. O Lord, Your life-giving resurrection has enlightened the entire universe* and has revived Your creation which lay in corruption.* Therefore, we, who have been released from the curse of Adam, cry out to You:* Almighty Lord, glory to You! For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved. O God, although in Your divine nature You are unchangeable,* yet in Your human nature You underwent change by suffering in the flesh.* All creation was prostrate with fear* when it saw You hanging on the cross,* and it groaned in sorrow as it sang the praises of Your long-suffering.* But You descended into Hades and arose on the third day,* granting life and great mercy to the world. Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days. You suffered death, O Christ, to deliver mankind from death.* And when You arose from the dead on the third day,* You enlightened the world* and resurrected all who acknowledge You as God. Glory… 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 Tone 3 Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world. Tone 2, Glory… As we celebrate the memory of Your prophet, Nahum,* O Lord, we beseech You through him: “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. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 3 Troparia, Tone 3 Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world. (2) Tone 2, Glory… As we celebrate the memory of Your prophet, Nahum,* O Lord, we beseech You through him: “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. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 3 Christ has arisen from the dead, the first fruits of those that sleep.* The First-born of creation and Creator of all that has come to be,* has renewed in Himself the corrupted nature of our race.* Death, no longer is your lord,* for the Master of all things has destroyed your dominion. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. Having tasted death in the flesh, O Lord,* You have blotted out the bitterness of death by Your arising* strengthening mankind against it, and announcing the abolition of the ancient curse.* Defender of our lives, O Lord, glory be to You! Glory… Now… Awed by the beauty of your virginity* and the exceeding radiance of your purity,* Gabriel called out to you, O Theotokos:* What worthy hymn of praise can I offer to you?* And what shall I name you?* I am in doubt and stand in awe.* Wherefore as commanded, I cry to you:* Rejoice, O Full of Grace. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 3 Awed by Your immutable Godhead* and by Your voluntary passion, O Lord,* Hades lamented: I tremble at Your body’s essence, which remains incorrupt.* I behold You, the One who is invisible, mystically making war against me;* wherefore those whom I hold cry out:* ‘Glory, O Christ, to Your Resurrection!’ I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. We the faithful contemplate an ineffable mystery:* Your incomprehensible Crucifixion and Your inexplicable Arising.* For today Death and Hades have been despoiled,* but mankind has been clothed in incorruption.* Wherefore with thanksgiving we cry aloud to You:* Glory, O Christ, to Your Resurrection! Glory… Now… Mystically did you contain in your womb* the Incomprehensible and Uncircumscribed One,* consubstantial with the Father and the Spirit;* and we acknowledge in your Offspring one unconfused energy of the Trinity Who is glorified in the world.* And so with thanksgiving we cry to you, ** ‘Rejoice, O full of grace!’ Polyeleos Evlogitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 3 A Cause of amazement by his appearance,* and source of refreshment by his speech,* the radiant Angel spoke to the myrrh-bearing women saying:* Why do you seek the living in a grave?* He has arisen, emptying the graves.* Know that the unchangeable One has changed corruption.* Wherefore cry to God saying,* ‘How fearful are Your works!* For You have saved mankind.’ Hymn of Ascent, Tone 3 Antiphon 1 You, O Word, delivered the captivity of Sion from Babylon,* Deliver me also* from the passions to life. Those who sow in the South* with tears inspired by God,* shall in joy reap sheaves of everlasting life. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit,* together with the Father and the Son* shines forth the reflection of every good gift,* In Him all things live and have their being. Antiphon 2 Except the Lord build the house of the virtues,* in vain do we labour.* While He protects our soul no one lays waste our city. The Saints, O Christ, fruits of the womb,* are by the Spirit, always sons to You,* as You are to the Father. Glory… Now… The Holy Spirit is the inspiration of all that is holy and wise;* for He quickens every creature.* Let us worship Him* together with the Father and the Son, for He is God. Antiphon 3 Those who fear the Lord are blessed* as they walk along the paths of His commandments;* for they partake of the life-giving fruit. Be glad, Chief Shepherd,* beholding Your offspring around Your table* bearing the branches of good works. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit is a superabundance of glory;* for from Him proceeds forth grace and life* into all creation;* wherefore He is praised together with the Father and the Word. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 Proclaim to the nations: God is king. The world He made firm in its place. verse: O sing a new song to the Lord, sing to the Lord all the earth. Let everything that lives, Tone 3 Gospel Luke 24:12-35 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 3 Ode 1 Irmos: In time past by his divine command he gathered the waters into one heap* and divided the sea for the people of Israel:* this is our God, he is glorious,* to him alone we sing, for he is glorified. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He condemned the earth to bring forth thorns, fruit of the transgressor’s sweat; he received in the flesh a crown of thorns from the hands of lawless men : this is our God, he has done away with the curse, he is glorified. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He whom death smote is declared the conqueror who won the victory over death; for taking living flesh subject to suffering, he wrestled with the tyrant and raised up all with himself: he is our God, he is glorified. Glory… Now… All nations glorify you, true Mother of God, who seedlessly bore your child; for he, our God, stole down into your hallowed womb and, invested with our being, God and man was born of you. 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: Almighty Lord,* you brought all things from nothing into being,* created by the Word, perfected by the Spirit.* Make me firm in your love. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The ungodly man was brought to shame by your cross; he dug a pit and opened it up and fell into it himself; the horn of the lowly, O Christ, is lifted up in your resurrection. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The proclamation of righteousness to the nations as water has covered the seas, O Lover of man, for you have risen from the grave and revealed the splendour of the Trinity. Glory… Now… Glorious things are spoken of you, the living city of the King who reigns for ever. For through you, O Lady, God dwelt among those on earth. 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! Ode 4 Irmos: A mighty love you have shown to us, O Lord,* for you have given over to death for us your only-begotten Son;* therefore we thank you and cry to you:* Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Scars and bruises compassionately bearing, insult of blows enduring, long-patient under the spitting, O Christ; through these you have wrought my salvation. Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Life in mortal body, you conversed with deatiaor the sake of the misery of the poor and the sighing of the needy; and. destroying the destroyer, O glorified One, you raised up all with yourself, only Lover of man. Glory… Now… Remember, O Christ, your flock won by your Passion: visit the afflicted, accept the compassionate prayers of your Mother glorified and save it, O Lord, by your power. 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: Early I wake to you the Creator of all* and the peace which passes all understanding:* guide me in your ordinances,* for they are light. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Through the envy of the Jews handed over to an unrighteous judge, you, the all-seeing who judges all the earth in righteousness, delivered Adam from the ancient condemnation. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Christ, risen from the dead, grant peace to your churches in the invincible power of your cross, and save our souls. Glory… Now… You alone, the Ever-virgin who received the Word of God unbounded by the whole creation, are declared the holy tabernacle wider than the heavens. 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: The deepest abyss of sins has surrounded me* and my spirit fails me;* but stretch out your mighty arm, O Lord my pilot, as to Peter,* and save me. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The abyss of mercy and pity has surrounded me in your tender descent, O Lord, for, made flesh and taking the form of a servant, you made me as God and glorified me with yourself. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The one who dealt death has undergone death through seeing the One put to death now brought to life: these things are the tokens of your Resurrection, O Christ, and the rewards of your pure Passion. Glory… Now… Only All-pure, beyond understanding you were mediator between the Creator and man, pray to your merciful Son for your stumbling servants and be our defender. 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 You rose from the tomb, O compassionate Lord,* and led us out from the gates of death.* Today Adam exults and Eve rejoices,* and the prophets together with the patriarchs* unceasingly acclaim the divine might of Your power. Ikos Let heaven and earth dance together today and with one mind sing to Christ God for he has raised from the graves those held in bonds. All creation rejoices together and brings to our Creator and Redeemer of all its fitting songs. For today, as giver of life, with himself he drew mortal man from Hell and lifts him up to heaven, he dashes down the pride of the enemy and breaks in pieces the gates of Hell by the divine might of his authority. Ode 7 Irmos: As, long ago, your dew refreshed the three godly children in the Chaldean flames,* so shine with the enlightening fire of your Godhead* upon us who cry to you:* Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The fair veil of the temple was rent in the cross of the Creator, clearly announcing the hidden truth in the scriptures to the faithful who cry to you: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. When your side was pierced, O Christ, drops of your life-giving blood, flowing from God by divine dispensation, distilled upon the earth and re-made those born of the earth who cry to you: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory… Now… Let us the faithful glorify the Good Spirit with the Father and the only-begotten Son, one in three, as we worship the first cause and one Godhead, crying: Blessed are you, 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: In the unbearable fire, unharmed by the flames,* the young men, famed for their fear of God, stood as one and sang the divine hymn:* Bless the Lord, all you his works,* and exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The brightness of the temple was rent when your cross was set on Golgotha: all creation bowed down together and raised the song: Bless the Lord, all you his works, and exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You have risen, Christ, from the grave, by the divine power of the cross you have raised man overthrown by treachery and set him straight again, crying out and saying: Bless the Lord, all you his works, and exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory… Now… You are declared to be the temple of God, living resting-place and ark, for you, pure Mother of God, have reconciled the Creator to mortal man and fittingly we his works sing your praises and exalt you throughout all the ages. 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: Marvel new and meet for God!* Through the shut gate of the Virgin the Lord surely passes through.* Unclothed in the entering, flesh-bearing in the coming forth* God has appeared and the gate remains fast closed.* We magnify her beyond utterance* the Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Word of God, awful it is to see you, the Creator, hanging on the tree, God suffering in human fashion for the sake of his servants; while lying lifeless in the tomb you yet had loosed the dead from Hell; for this, O Christ, we magnify you as almighty. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Laid dead in the grave, O Christ, you saved our forefathers from the corruption of death; you raised the dead and made life to blossom and, leading mortal nature by the hand to the light, you clothed it with divine incorruptibility; for this we magnify you, fountain of everliving light. Glory… Now… Temple and throne of God you are declared to be, All-pure, wherein he who dwells in the highest took up his abode, born without man and guarding entire the doors of your flesh. Holy One, by your unceasing prayers bring swiftly the nations in final subjection to our king. 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 Christ our Way and our Life,* after His resurrection from the dead,* accompanied Luke and Cleopas,* who had recognized Him at Emmaus in the breaking of the bread.* Their hearts and souls were inflamed as He spoke to them on the way,* explaining to them all the Scriptures that pertained to Him.* Let us, therefore, shout with them, saying:* Truly, the Lord is risen and has appeared to Peter. Glory… Now… I praise Your love without limit, O my Creator;* for You emptied Yourself to put on our broken nature to save us.* O all-compassionate Lord, even though You are God,* You consented for my sake to be born into our human condition* and to descend into Hades to save us,* through the intercession of Your most pure Mother. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 3 Come all you nations,* acknowledge the power of the dread mystery;* for Christ our Saviour, the beginningless Word,* was crucified for us and was willingly buried* and arose from the dead to save the whole universe.* Let us worship Him. You guards recounted all the marvels, O Lord,* but, by filling their right hands with money,* the Sanhedrin of folly thought to conceal Your Resurrection,* which the world glorifies;* have mercy upon us. All things have been filled with joy on receiving proof of the Resurrection.* For Mary Magdalene having come to the tomb,* found an Angel seated upon the stone,* radiant in shining raiment, saying:* Why do you seek the living among the dead?* He is not here, but He has arisen, as He foretold,* and goes before you into Galilee. In Your light, O Master and Lover of mankind,* shall we see light.* For arose from the dead,* granting salvation to the race of mankind,* wherefore all creation glorifies You, the only sinless one;* have mercy upon us. As a morning hymn, O Lord,* the Myrrh-bearing Women offered You their tears.* For bringing perfumes of sweet fragrances, they came to Your grave, eager to anoint Your most pure Body.* An angel seated upon the stone declared to them the good tidings:* Why do you seek the living among the dead?* For He has trampled down death, He has arisen as God,* granting to all His great mercy. A radiant Angel seated by You life-giving tomb* spoke to the Myrrh-bearing women saying:* The Redeemer has emptied the tombs,* He has despoiled Hades* and has arisen on the third day as alone God and all-powerful. On the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb seeking You.* When she did not find You, she lamented and cried out with grief:* Alas, my Saviour, how have You, the King of all, been stolen?* But a pair of radiant Angels from within the sepulchre cried out:* Why do you weep, woman?* I weep, she said, because they have taken my Lord from the tomb* and I know not where they have laid Him.* Whereupon, turning back and seeing You, she at once cried out:* My Lord and my God, glory be to You! The Hebrews shut Life within the tomb;* but the Thief opened the Paradise of pure delight with his voice when he cried aloud saying:* The One who was crucified with me and who was hung with me upon the tree* also appears to me seated upon a throne together with the Father.* For He is Christ our God, who has great mercy. Tone 5, Glory… How wise are Your judgments, O Christ!* You granted Peter the understanding of Your resurrection by the burial wrappings alone.* Even though You accompanied Luke and Cleopas and conversed with them,* yet You did not reveal Yourself.* You were taunted by them as though You alone were a stranger in Jerusalem,* not knowing what had recently happened there.* But since You ordained all things for the good of each,* You explained to them what the prophets had spoken concerning You.* In the breaking of the bread they recognized You* because their hearts were already burning with the desire to know You.* When they came together with the disciples,* they proclaimed openly Your divine resurrection* by which we ask that You have mercy upon us. 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 Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 3: Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 3: You rose from the tomb, O compassionate Lord,* and led us out from the gates of death.* Today Adam exults and Eve rejoices,* and the prophets together with the patriarchs* unceasingly acclaim the divine might of Your power. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 3: Today the Virgin stands before us in the church* and together with the choirs of saints invisibly prays to God for us.* Angels are worshipping with hierarchs,* Apostles exult with prophets,* for the Mother of God prays in our behalf to the eternal God. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 Sing to our God, sing; sing to our King, sing. verse: Clap your hands, all you nations; shout unto God with the voice of joy. (Psalm 46:7,2) Epistle Colossians 3:12-16 Alleluia, Tone 3 verse: In You, O Lord, have I hoped that I may not be put to shame for ever. verse: Be a protector unto me, O God, and a house of refuge to save me. (Psalm 30:2,3) Gospel Luke 18:18-27 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Nov 30, 2024 - The Holy and All-Praiseworthy Apostle Andrew the First-Called.

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 30, 2024 Polyeleos Feast. Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 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 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 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. 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. 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.. 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 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. 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 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. FESTAL MATINS ON SATURDAY MORNING 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 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.. 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! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! You pursued the sea monster 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! 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. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! Transforming pagan temples into churches, most honoured one, you sanctified there the sons of baptism whom grace had renewed through water and the spirit. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! Small Ektenia 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! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for 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 Spirit! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for 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. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! 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. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! Small Ekteny 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! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! 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. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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! 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. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for 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! Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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. Holy apostle Andrew, pray to God for us! 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. 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, 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. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING 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 words 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 words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5):

Nov 29, 2024 - The Holy Martyr Paramon; The Holy Martyr Philomenus; Venerable Acacius of whom testimony is found in “The Ladder of Divine Ascent.”

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 29, 2024 Nativity Fast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. When You were nailed to the Cross, О Saviour,* the sun beheld and dimmed its rays in fear of You,* and the veil of the temple was rent in two;* the earth quaked, and the stones likewise split asunder with trembling,* unable to bear the sight of their Creator and God willingly suffering unjustly upon the Tree,* and reviled by men. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. When the Cross was set up and You were pierced in the side with the spear, О Sinless Saviour,* the sun hid itself, unable to bear the sight;* the earth trembled, and when You were reviled, the rocks split asunder in fear;* and all creation cried out to You:* Glory be to Your crucifixion whereby You have saved all,* О Word and Lover of mankind! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Wholly cast down to the ground, wholly wounded,* the most wicked serpent was brought low by a strange fall* when You were uplifted upon the Tree, О Lover of mankind.* And Adam who before was condemned* was loosed from the curse and became saved.* Wherefore, we also pray: Save us all, О Compassionate One,* and grant us Your kingdom! Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Manifestly illumined by the brightness of the Spirit of God,* most blessed Paramon,* you despised the total darkness of idolatry.* When your time had come, most blessed one,* you approached the suffering before you with a courageous mind!* Revealed as victorious, you cast down the prideful enemy of all mortals,* as you magnified Christ!* Entreat Him to save and enlighten our souls! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Witnessing a great multitude slaughtered for the King and God of all, * you burned with divine zeal, Paramon, crying out:* I am ever a true servant of Christ!* Understand, evil tyrants,* for behold, I was summoned and now I come* to be slain like an innocent lamb!* Therefore, do not be deceived:* I am forced to become an acceptable sacrifice to Him* Who for my sake was freely slain in the flesh! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The honoured choir of athletes,* three hundred seventy in number,* with faith cast down the falsehood of the evil-doers' idolatry.* You also were crowned with them,* having struggled with a courageous mind, Paramon,* and rejoicing, you joined the choirs of the bodiless hosts!* Ever pray with them that we who honour and bless you* may be delivered from all sorrow and dangers! Tone 2, Glory… Now… When the unblemished ewe-lamb beheld her Lamb* willingly led as a man to the slaughter,* she said, weeping:* “Do You now hasten to leave me childless who gave You birth, O Christ,?* What is this that You have done, O Redeemer of all?* Even so I will hymn and glorify Your extreme goodness,* which is beyond understanding and all telling,* O Lover of mankind!” Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 2 О Christ God my Saviour, who saved Peter in the sea,* save me by the power of the Cross,* and have mercy on me. In the morning, fill us with Your love; we shall exult and rejoice all our days. Give us joy to balance our affliction for the years when we knew misfortune. Show forth Your work to Your servants; let Your glory shine on their children. They who ever enjoyed Your gifts cried aloud, “Crucify Him!”;* they who slew the righteous ones asked that a malefactor be released to them in place of the Benefactor.* But You kept silence, О Christ, enduring their savagery,* desiring to suffer and thus save us,* in that You love mankind. Let the favour of the Lord be upon us: give success to the work of our hands, give success to the work of our hands. Having hated the pleasures of life,* the passion-bearers were deemed worthy of the good things of heaven* and have made their abode together with the angels.* By their prayers, О Lord, have mercy and save us. Tone 2, Glory… Now… When iniquitous men raised You, the Life of all, up upon the Tree, О Saviour,* Your pure and most immaculate Mother,* standing forth and lamenting, exclaimed:* “O my sweet Child, light of my eyes, woe is me!* How have You suffered to be nailed to the Cross between two evildoers,* О You who have suspended the earth upon the waters?” Troparia Tone 4 O Lord our God, your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Glory… Now… O Virgin, all immaculate Mother of Christ God,* a sword pierced your all-holy soul* when you saw your Son and God willingly crucified.* Therefore, O blessed One,* never cease to pray to Him* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle Titus 1:15-2:10 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 20:19-26 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Nov 28, 2024 - The Venerable-Martyr Stephen the New; The Holy Martyr Irenarchus.

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 28, 2024 Saint with Six Stichera. Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. From your youth you offer yourself wholly to the Master,* transcending the flesh and worldly love, O most sacred Stephen,* as a most excellent monk and a receptacle of the divine Spirit.* For you were imprisoned in a most narrow hut, O blessed one,* but gave your mind wings to fly to the heavens,* to look upon the ineffable beauty of Christ our King and God,* worshipping His image you suffered most mightily. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. From your youth you offer yourself wholly to the Master,* transcending the flesh and worldly love, O most sacred Stephen,* as a most excellent monk and a receptacle of the divine Spirit.* For you were imprisoned in a most narrow hut, O blessed one,* but gave your mind wings to fly to the heavens,* to look upon the ineffable beauty of Christ our King and God,* worshipping His image you suffered most mightily. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Imprisoned in a dungeon, like the Master, you fasted for forty days* and prepared yourself for suffering, O sacred Stephen,* confirmation of monks and adornment of martyrs.* The merciless ones, falling upon you like wild beasts,* dragged you along like an innocent lamb and unjustly rent you asunder;* and with malefactors they cast you who suffered mightily* and pray with boldness in behalf of our souls. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Imprisoned in a dungeon, like the Master, you fasted for forty days* and prepared yourself for suffering, O sacred Stephen,* confirmation of monks and adornment of martyrs.* The merciless ones, falling upon you like wild beasts,* dragged you along like an innocent lamb and unjustly rent you asunder;* and with malefactors they cast you who suffered mightily* and pray with boldness in behalf of our souls. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Most iniquitous men who made themselves subject* to the iniquity of the most lawless emperor, O venerable one,* pitilessly stoned you like the honoured protomartyr Stephen,* and crushed your holy head, O father;* and dragging thee most savagely through the streets,* they caused thy bowels to spill forth, O most blessed one,* showing no mercy to you even after you were dead.* O your courage! O your demeanour! O your great endurance,* whereby you have received an imperishable crown, O Stephen! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Most iniquitous men who made themselves subject* to the iniquity of the most lawless emperor, O venerable one,* pitilessly stoned you like the honoured protomartyr Stephen,* and crushed your holy head, O father;* and dragging thee most savagely through the streets,* they caused thy bowels to spill forth, O most blessed one,* showing no mercy to you even after you were dead.* O your courage! O your demeanour! O your great endurance,* whereby you have received an imperishable crown, O Stephen! Tone 6, Glory… Like the great prophet Samuel you were dedicated to God from infancy, O most sacred Stephen;* and, ascending the mountain, you pleased him in monasticism,* manfully stripped yourself naked for the contest,* most patiently endured banishment and tribulation,* and bore fetters and imprisonment for His image.* Dragged, beaten and stoned, your head broken,* you were vouchsafed crowns by Christ God.* Entreat Him that those who celebrate your ever-honoured memory* be delivered from sufferings, temptations, and the coming tribulation,* and that our souls be saved. Now… The eye of my heart longingly seeks you, O Lady;* disdain not my feeble sigh.* At the hour when your Son shall judge the world,* be my protection and helper. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 2 Throughout the whole world You magnified the names of Your preeminent apostles, О Saviour,* for they learned heavenly things and imparted ineffable healings to mortals.* They who were fishermen healed diseases by their handkerchiefs alone;* they who were Jews theologized the doctrines of grace.* For their sake, О You who are full of loving-kindness,* grant us great mercy. In the morning, fill us with Your love; we shall exult and rejoice all our days. Give us joy to balance our affliction for the years when we knew misfortune. Show forth Your work to Your servants; let Your glory shine on their children. We, who are ever assailed by the actions of the unrighteous,* yet truly find refuge in You, who are God,* offer to You the voice of Your disciples, saying:* Save us, О our Instructor, for we are perishing!* And we pray: Show now to our enemies that You protect and save from misfortunes* those who have recourse to the supplications of the apostles,* overlooking their sins in Your great goodness.* О Lord, glory be to You! Let the favour of the Lord be upon us: give success to the work of our hands, give success to the work of our hands. Great is the glory you have acquired by faith;* for you not only vanquished the enemy in your sufferings,* but in death you drive away evil spirits and heal the infirm, О physicians of souls and bodies.* Pray to the Lord, that our souls may find mercy. Tone 8, Glory… Having preserved intact that which is according to the image of God, O venerable father,* you most manfully championed the image of Christ,* fearing not the threats of Copronymus;* yes, you slew him with the sword of the Spirit.* Having acquired boldness before God, save your flock from all heresies,* O much-suffering Stephen. Now… I flee to your protection, O holy Virgin Theotokos,* for I know that through thee I shall obtain salvation;* for you are able to help me, O pure one. Troparia Tone 4 O blessed Stephen, your ascetical life on the mountain and the power of the cross* made you capable of routing your spiritual enemies.* By your courage in battle and your strong faith, you defeated Copronymus.* for both these reasons, God has crowned you with immortal life.* O martyr among the saints,* you are worthy of all praise. Glory… O Lord our God, your holy martyr Irenarchus* has deserved the crown of immortality* on account of his good fight.* Armed with your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through his supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Now… O Virgin Mother of God,* we acknowledge that the Word of the Father, Christ our God,* was incarnate of you, the only pure one and the only blessed one.* Therefore, we sing to you a hymn of praise and we exalt you. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: God of our fathers, You always treat us fairly.* Deprive us not of Your mercy* but by their prayers direct our lives in peace. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Passing through the swell of the waves without being wet*, you mightily engulfed the incorporeal enemies* in the streams of your tears, O godly venerable martyrs.* Having received the gift of miracles,* pray without ceasing for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The venerable ones will exult in glory* and they shall by joyful in their beds. verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; let His praise be in the assembly of the venerable ones. (Psalm 149:5,1) Epistle Titus 1:5-2:1 Alleluia, Tone 6 verse: Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; he shall delight exceedingly in His commandments. verse: His seed shall be mighty upon the earth. (Psalm 111:1,2) Gospel Luke 20:9-18 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Nov 27, 2024 - The Holy Martyr James of Persia; Our Venerable Father Palladius.

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 27, 2024 Nativity Fast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Having forsaken the beauties of the world,* the splendour of your birthright, wealth, and beauty,* and cast aside all sensuality,* and having broken your body through the wounding of the passions,* rejoicing you followed after Christ, O James;* for through your suffering you have now truly become a partaker of glory* and a fellow heir of the kingdom. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Having forsaken the beauties of the world,* the splendour of your birthright, wealth, and beauty,* and cast aside all sensuality,* and having broken your body through the wounding of the passions,* rejoicing you followed after Christ, O James;* for through your suffering you have now truly become a partaker of glory* and a fellow heir of the kingdom. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. When the members of your flesh were cut off,* enduring unbearable pain and wounds, O right glorious James, martyr of Christ,* and having manfully trampled the savagery of the tormenters underfoot,* you received a priceless crown of victory;* and now adorned, O blessed one,* you stand with those who suffered with you,* before the throne of your Master. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. When the members of your flesh were cut off,* enduring unbearable pain and wounds, O right glorious James, martyr of Christ,* and having manfully trampled the savagery of the tormenters underfoot,* you received a priceless crown of victory;* and now adorned, O blessed one,* you stand with those who suffered with you,* before the throne of your Master. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Possessed of boldness before Christ, O ever-memorable martyr,* you fervently intercede for all who celebrate your honoured festival with faith,* delivering them from misfortunes and freeing them from the passions,* rescuing them from besetting evils* and granting their souls salvation by your divine supplications,* that we may glorify your splendid struggles. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Possessed of boldness before Christ, O ever-memorable martyr,* you fervently intercede for all who celebrate your honoured festival with faith,* delivering them from misfortunes and freeing them from the passions,* rescuing them from besetting evils* and granting their souls salvation by your divine supplications,* that we may glorify your splendid struggles. Tone 5, Glory… You astonished all in your bearing of tortures, O James;* for you endured the amputation of your fingers, hands and arms,* and likewise your feet and legs until you were left with your trunk alone;* and then, as you prayed, your precious head was severed.* O much-suffering martyr, never cease to pray to Christ in our behalf* that our souls may find mercy. Now… Desiring that all receive salvation, O my sinless Christ,* You were pleased to pay a great price, Your precious blood, for our deliverance.* Wherefore, beholding You nailed, Your Mother, lamenting, rent her hair, saying:* O Child, my all-immaculate Lamb, who desires to deliver the world by Your precious blood,* how have You set to whence I cannot see, O never-setting Sun,* who grants to all enlightenment, peace and great mercy? Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 2 О Christ God my Saviour, who saved Peter in the sea,* save me by the power of the Cross,* and have mercy on me. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Those who ever enjoyed Your gifts cried out, “Crucify Him!”;* those who slew the righteous ones asked that a malefactor be given to them in place of the Benefactor.* But You kept silence, О Christ,* enduring their savagery, desiring to suffer and thus save us,* in that You love mankind. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. The choirs of the martyrs opposed the tyrants, saying:* “We fight for the King of hosts!* And even if you have subjected us to fire and tortures,* we will not reject the power of the Trinity!” Tone 8, Glory… Assembling with faith today, O you who love to look upon things divine,* behold the strange and noetic contest of James of Persia,* who has shone upon us like the star which appeared to the magi,* guiding us to true knowledge;* for that valiant one, when he fell, destroyed those who fought against him,* and when his members were severed,* he rendered those who tortured him impotent,* for he was strengthened by the providence of the Most High, crying out:* “Even though you sever my material limbs, yet I have Christ,* who has spiritually become all things to me!”* Foreseeing the life to come, which lies before all through death,* he hastened to pass over to it,* and abiding therein, he entreats God, the Bestower of crowns,* that He grant cleansing, enlightenment, and great mercy to us* who celebrate his memory. Now… O Lord, when the sun beheld You the Sun of righteousness, hanging upon the Tree,* it hid its rays, and the light of the moon was changed to darkness;* and Your all-immaculate Mother was pierced in the depths of her soul. Troparia Tone 4 You suffered awful torments at the hands of foreigners,* but you astonished everyone by the heroism of your endurance.* Each time one of your limbs was severed from your body,* you uttered a prayer of thanks to God.* For this you were crowned after your ordeal,* and you have been admitted to the court of heaven.* O long-suffering James, beg Him to save our souls. Tone 8, Glory… In you, O holy father Palladius, the faithful image of God shone forth,* for you carried your cross and followed Christ.* You taught by your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away;* and how to value the soul, for it is immortal.* Therefore, your soul is forever in happiness with the angels. Now… When the Mother beheld upon the cross* the Lamb, the Shepherd, and the Saviour of the world,* she exclaimed tearfully:* The world rejoices at the sight of its redemption,* but my heart is afire as I see Your pain on the cross,* which You accept for the sake of all, O my Son and my God! DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Your martyr, James, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, save our souls. Troparion, Tone 8: The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O father,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh, which passes,* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* and so, O Venerable Palladius,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 2: As a bright and unerring star you appeared to the world* proclaiming with your rays the Sun, that is, Christ, O martyr, James,* and you have extinguished all error.* But to us you give light, praying without ceasing for all of us. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Divinely armed with purity of spirit* and mightily wielding the lance of unceasing prayers,* you overcame the powers of demons,* Venerable Palladius, pray without ceasing for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle 2 Timothy 4:9-22 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just man shall flourish like the palm tree; and he shall grow like the cedar in Lebanon. verse: They who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish the courts of our God. (Psalm 91:13,14) Gospel Luke 20:1-8 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Nov 26, 2024 - Our Venerable Father Alypius the Stylite; The Blessing of the Church of the Holy Great-Martyr George which is in Kyiv before the Gates of Holy Wisdom Cathedral.

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 26, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. О Christ, who alone are without sin,* who alone are without guile, who alone are the Wellspring of goodness:* Behold my oppression, behold my tribulation.* Wash all the wounds of my stripes, and in Your mercy save Your servant,* that, having driven the clouds of slothfulness far from me,* I may glorify You, my supremely good Saviour. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Look, О my lowly soul!* Behold your works, which are all-defiled!* Behold your nakedness and, alas, your isolation!* For you shall be separated from God and the angels,* and cast into endless torment.* Come to your senses, arise, make haste and cry aloud:* I have sinned, О Saviour!* Grant me forgiveness, and save me! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. I have grievously defiled my body* and brought corruption upon my soul and heart by my vile thoughts;* I have wounded all my senses, have blinded my eyes,* have stopped up mine ears with filth, and have defiled my tongue;* and all that I have is shameful.* Wherefore, falling down before You, I cry aloud:* О Master Christ, I have sinned against You!* I have sinned; forgive and save me! 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. O most blessed Alypius, from your childhood you offered your life to Christ our God,* and, strengthened by Him, you submitted the passions of your flesh to your mind,* subjecting what is worse to that which is higher.* Pray that the Lord grant our souls* peace and great mercy. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O divinely wise Alypius,* you were shown to be a magnificent beacon,* illumining the earth with the splendours of your wonders and your godly deeds.* After your repose the unwaning Light received you.* Pray that Christ grant to our souls* peace and great mercy. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You were an immovable pillar for monks, O wise one,* standing higher than your pillar,* vexed by the heat of the day and cold and by many fasts.* You received the divine gifts of the Spirit to heal infirmities* and to drive out the most cruel passions.* Pray that Christ grant to our souls* peace and great mercy. Tone 1, Glory… Now… Rejoice, O bush unburned!* Rejoice, you who alone gave birth to the Angel of Great Counsel!* Rejoice, O you the choice of the honoured Trinity!* Rejoice, confirmation of mortals!* Rejoice, you who gave rise to the uncultivated Grain of paradise:* the King and Lord who withers the shoots of malice! Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 2 Like the prodigal son I have sinned against You, О Saviour.* Accept me who am penitent, О Father.* Have mercy upon me, О God! I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. With the cry of the publican I cry out to You, О Christ my Saviour:* Cleanse me as You did him,* and have mercy on me, О God! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. When the holy martyrs pray for us and hymn Christ,* all delusion ceases, and the race of mankind is saved by faith. Tone 2, Glory… Now… All of my hope do I place on thee, O Mother of God;* keep me under your protection. Troparia Tone 4 You seem a terror unscalable to the devils,* crippling them by the club of your effective prayers.* You chase away passion by fasting.* You are a firm support of those wavering.* O blessed father Alypius,* beg Christ our God to save our souls. Glory… Sated with miracles, the whole world blesses you today.* Drunk with your blood, the earth keeps a holiday.* The Christians of Kiev rejoice at the dedication of your Church, O martyr George,* O chosen vessel of the Holy Spirit who pleased Christ.* Beg Him to forgive the sins* of those who come to your Church with faith and prayer.* Beg Him to give peace to the world and mercy to our souls. Now… Let us poor sinners hasten with fervour to the Mother of God;* let us humbly kneel before her and say from the depth of our hearts:* O Lady, be kind to us and help us.* Hasten, for we are perishing under a multitude of sins.* Do not turn away your servants empty-handed,* for you are their only hope and protection. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Your martyr, Alypius, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, 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 2: As a bright and unerring star you appeared to the world* proclaiming with your rays the Sun, that is, Christ, O martyr, Alypius,* and you have extinguished all error.* But to us you give light, praying without ceasing for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle 2 Timothy 3:16-4:4 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just man shall flourish like the palm tree; and he shall grow like the cedar in Lebanon. verse: They who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish the courts of our God. (Psalm 91:13,14) Gospel Luke 19:45-48 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Nov 25, 2024 - Our Holy Fathers and Hieromartyrs Clement, Pope of Rome, and Peter, Bishop of Alexandria.

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 25, 2024 Leave-taking of the Feast of the Entrance of the Mother of God. Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted tonight. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O faithful, let us leap for joy today,* singing psalms and hymns of praise* in honour of Mary, his mother,* the holy Tabernacle and Ark that contained the Word* whom nothing can contain.* She is offered to God as a child in a marvellous way,* and Zechariah the high priest receives her with great joy,* for she is the dwelling place of the Most High. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Today the living Temple of the holy glory of Christ our God,* Mary, the pure and blessed One,* is being brought into the temple according to the Law* to live in its holy precincts.* Joachim and Anne and all the virgins* rejoice with her in spirit.* They sing hymns of praise to the Lord* and honour his Mother. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Virgin Mother of God,* you are the One foretold by the prophets.* You are the glory of the apostles* and the pride of martyrs* and the cause of renewal for the entire human race.* Through you we have been reconciled with God.* Therefore, we honour your entrance into the temple of the Lord.* Together with the angels, all of us who are saved by your prayers sing to you:* Rejoice, O most holy One. Tone 2 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. As a branch of the vine of life, O most wise father and hierarch,* through the Spirit you put forth the beautiful grapes of dogmas,* which ever exude the saving wine of divine knowledge* and gladden the hearts of all the pious who truly honour you,* O most blessed God-bearer Clement. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. As a disciple of the preeminent Peter, O most lauded father,* you established yourself like a precious stone upon his Stone,* demolished the fabric of polytheism with the strength of your words* and raised up divine temples for the worship of the Trinity,* for whom you struggled, O blessed one,* and received the crown of martyrdom. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Like the light-giving sun you shone forth from the lands of the West, O father,* splendidly illumining the earth with the radiance of your dogmas and your wounds;* and you reached the lands of the East, O thrice-blessed one, and, slain, did set*; but you have richly shone forth to Christ with heavenly beams, O Clement,* enlightened unceasingly through divine communion. Tone 8, Glory… Now… O Lady and Bride of God,* you entered the temple of God in your infancy* to be brought up in the Holy of Holies,* for you are holy.* The archangel Gabriel was sent to serve you and bring you food.* All the heavenly powers were amazed* at the sight of the Holy Spirit dwelling in you.* Therefore, O most pure and immaculate Mother of God,* since you are glorified in heaven and on earth,* through your prayers save our human race. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 5 Heaven and earth today rejoice together* at the sight of the mystical heaven;* the immaculate and pure Virgin is coming into the holy temple* to be brought up in honour. Zechariah, rejoicing in her and leaping for joy,* cried out in awe: O Door of the Lord,* I open the doors of the temple to you,* because I know and believe that the salvation of Israel is already coming,* that the Word of God will be born from you,* and that He will grant great mercy to the world. She is led to the King with her maiden companions. When Anne, which means grace,* was graced with the pure and ever-Virgin Mary,* she presented her into the temple of God.* She called maidens to carry candles and walk before her as she said:* O child, go to be an offering* and a fragrant incense for the One who sent you to me.* Enter into the veiled places and learn the mysteries of God.* Prepare yourself to be a delightful dwelling place for Jesus* who will give great mercy to the world. They are escorted amid gladness and joy; they pass within the palace of the King. The all-holy Virgin is handed over into the temple.* Maidens carrying candles go before her.* Her parents, the devoted couple, Joachim and Anne, joyfully celebrate,* for they have given birth in the flesh to the One who will bear the Creator.* She will dance for joy in the temple of God* and will be fed by the hand of an angel.* The all-immaculate Mother of Christ has appeared,* and He will grant great mercy to the world. Tone 6, Glory… Now… O assembly of the faithful,* let us celebrate this day as a spiritual feast.* With great love, let us honour the maiden of God,* the Virgin and Theotokos,* as she is presented into the temple of the Lord;* for she has been chosen from among all generations* to be the dwelling place of Christ our God* who is the King of all.* O virgins, carry candles and lead the way* for the entrance of the ever-Virgin.* Follow after her who is the Mother of God* and mediatrix for the joy of the world.* Therefore, let us all cry out together with the angels:* Rejoice, for you are full of grace,* and you continually pray for our souls. Troparia Tone 4 God of our fathers, You always treat us fairly.* Deprive us not of Your mercy,* but by their prayers direct our lives in peace. Glory… Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. Troparion, Tone 4: God of our fathers, You always treat us fairly.* Deprive us not of Your mercy,* but by their prayers direct our lives in peace. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 4: The Saviour’s pure temple,* the precious bridal chamber and Virgin,* the sacred treasury of the glory of God,* is brought today into the house of the Lord;* and with her she brings the grace of the divine Spirit.* God’s angels sing in praise of her:* She is indeed the heavenly dwelling-place. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 8: As teachers of virtue and the adornment of hierarchs,* the church sings your praises:* By your prayers grant to those who venerate you with love* the achievement of virtues and deliverance from temptations,* for you are invincible. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46-48) Epistle 2 Timothy 2:20-26 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Hear, O daughter, and see, and incline your ear. verse: The rich among the people shall entreat your countenance. (Psalm 44:11,13) Gospel Luke 19:37-44 Hymn to the Mother of God Seeing the entrance of the pure one, angels marvel in wonder how the Virgin could enter the holy of holies And the Irmos, Tone 4: Let no hand of the profane touch God’s living ark,* but instead let the lips of those who are believers* sing out ceaselessly in the words of the angel,* crying out with great joy to the Mother of God:* O pure Virgin,* you are truly higher than all. Communion Hymn I will take the cup of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 115:13):

Nov 24, 2024 - Twenty-seventh Sunday after Pentecost, Tone 2; The Holy Great-Martyr Catherine; The Holy Great-Martyr Mercurius.

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 24, 2024 Post-feast of the Entrance of the Mother of God. Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name. Come, let us adore God the Word,* who was born of the Father before all ages,* and was incarnate of the Virgin Mary;* for of His own free will He suffered the Cross* and submitted Himself to burial,* and arose from the dead to save me, a sinful one. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me. Christ our Saviour cancelled the decree that was written against us,* by nailing it to the Cross;* and He abolished the dominion of Death.* Let us glorify His resurrection on the third day. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Let us, together with the archangels, sing of Christ’s resurrection;* for He is the Redeemer and Saviour of our souls.* He will come again in awesome glory and mighty power* to judge the world which He has fashioned. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Although You died and were buried,* the angel yet declared You as Master.* He said to the women: Come and see where the Lord was placed;* for He is risen as He foretold,* because He is almighty.* Therefore, we worship You, the only Immortal One,* and we beseech You to have mercy on us, O Giver of Life. Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The city of Alexandria adorned today.* O Martyr, it your burial shroud in the holy church.* O Catherine, we also devoutly celebrate your precious memory.* Pray for all those who venerate you.. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Let us now celebrate the memory of Catherine,* for by word and deed she mightily defeated* the opposing orator and the powers of the enemy.* Deliver us, O God, from godless enemies. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Rejoice, O precious and all-glorious Catherine.* Mount Sinai has seen the unburnable bush of Moses.* Christ now preserves your body which is pleasing to God* until He comes again in glory. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O sufferer of the passion, Mercurius,* by a fighting spirit you conquered the foe.* Like an invincible soldier,* by the armour of faith you cut down thousands of learned Moors.* Because you finished your battle* you have been crowned with all the martyrs,* O most blessed Martyr. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. At the command of the Divine Spirit,* and angel was sent from heaven to heal your wounds.* O worthy one, they were caused by the piercing of burning irons.* You also underwent a lashing and hanging.* O Martyr, your suffering body was covered with blood. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O Mercurius, while waging war for your earthly king,* you were ordered to eat the sacrificial offerings.* O blessed and God-wise one,* you suffered tortures, burning by fire, and a wretched death.* You were carried as a crown-bearer to Christ.* Now joined to the ranks of martyrs, you pray for us. Tone 8, Glory… After your nativity, O Mistress, Bride of God,* you went to the Temple of the Lord to be raised in the Holy of Holies as a consecrated maiden.* Gabriel was then sent to you, the all-immaculate one, bringing food to you.* All of the heavenly powers marvelled, beholding the Holy Spirit abiding within you.* O all-pure and undefiled Mother of God, who are glorified in heaven and on earth,* save all of us. Tone 2, 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. 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 2 Your Resurrection, O Christ our Saviour,* has enlightened the whole universe;* and, through it, You call back to Yourself all Creation.* Almighty God, glory to You! The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength. By the wood of Your Cross, O Saviour,* You have abolished the curse of the tree;* by Your burial You have destroyed the power of death;* and by Your resurrection You enlightened the human race.* We, therefore, cry out to You:* O Christ our God, Giver of Life, glory to You! For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved. O Christ, when You were nailed to the Cross,* the distorted nature of creation was made manifest.* The soldiers showed their inhumanity by piercing Your side with a lance,* and the people showed their ignorance of Your power* by asking that Your tomb be sealed.* But, in Your mercy, You accepted burial* and then arose on the third day.* O Lord, glory to You! Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days. O Christ, Giver of Life,* You freely endured the Passion for the sake of mortals.* In Your power You descended into Hades;* and snatching, as from a mighty monster, the souls of those who awaited Your coming,* You placed them in Paradise.* Therefore, show Your great mercy to us who glorify Your resurrection,* and cleanse our souls. Tone 8, Glory… Now… David foretold you, O all-pure one,* as he foresaw the sanctification of your entry into the Temple.* Thus, all the ends of the earth feast today and glorify you, O all-praised one.* For, O Mother of the Word of Life,* a virgin before giving birth and remaining incorrupt after giving birth,* Zachariah is joyful and accepts you in the Temple, O Lady.* The Holy of Holies rejoices and receives you, the wellspring of our life.* Therefore, we also cry out in songs to you:* “Beseech your Son and our God in our behalf, that He grant us great mercy!” Troparia Tone 2 When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” Tone 4 By your virtues as by rays of the sun you enlightened the unbelieving philosophers,* and like the most bright moon you drove away the darkness of disbelief from those walking in the night;* you convinced the queen, and also chastised the tyrant, God-summoned bride, blessed Catherine.* You hastened with desire to the heavenly bridal chamber of the fairest Bridegroom of Christ,* and you were crowned by Him with a royal crown;* Standing before Him with the Angels, pray for us who keep your most sacred memory! Glory… Having passed through martyrdom like a true soldier,* you have marched on to the King immortal, O Mercurius.* You have been welcomed into the choir of martyrs.* Receive our prayers and pray in turn for us,* for we hold fast to your precious memory. Now… Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 2 Troparia, Tone 2 When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” (2) Tone 2 When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” Tone 4 By your virtues as by rays of the sun you enlightened the unbelieving philosophers,* and like the most bright moon you drove away the darkness of disbelief from those walking in the night;* you convinced the queen, and also chastised the tyrant, God-summoned bride, blessed Catherine.* You hastened with desire to the heavenly bridal chamber of the fairest Bridegroom of Christ,* and you were crowned by Him with a royal crown;* Standing before Him with the Angels, pray for us who keep your most sacred memory! Glory… Having passed through martyrdom like a true soldier,* you have marched on to the King immortal, O Mercurius.* You have been welcomed into the choir of martyrs.* Receive our prayers and pray in turn for us,* for we hold fast to your precious memory. Now… Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 2 The noble Joseph having taken down You most pure Body from the tree,* wrapped it in a fine linen shroud* covering it with fragrant spices* and placed it in a new sepulchre;* but on the third day You arose, O Lord,* granting the world great mercy. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. The Angel standing by the tomb cried to the myrrh-bearing women,* ‘Myrrh is fitting for the dead,* but Christ has been revealed a stranger to corruption.* rather cry aloud: The Lord is risen,* granting the world great mercy!’ Glory… Now… You are highly glorified, O Virgin Theotokos,* and we sing your praise,* for through the Cross of your Son Hades has been overthrown,* Death has been slain,* and we who were dead have arisen and been granted life.* We have received Paradise, our ancient delight,* therefore with thanksgiving we glorify Christ our God* as mighty and alone plenteous in mercy. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 2 You did not prevent the grave stone from being sealed,* and having arisen You granted to all the rock of the Faith.* O Lord, glory be to You! I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. The choir of Your Disciples rejoices in harmony with the Myrrh-bearing women;* for with them we celebrate a common feast to the glory and honour of Your Resurrection.* Through them, O Lord who loves mankind,* grant Your people Your great mercy. Glory… Now… You are highly blessed, O Virgin Theotokos,* for through Him who was incarnate of you* Hades has been taken captive, Adam recalled, the curse slain, and Eve set free,* death has been put to death and we have been given life;* therefore with hymns we cry to you:* Blessed are You O Christ our God who has been thus well-pleased, glory be to You! Polyeleos Evlogitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 2 The women coming to Your grave after the Passion* to anoint Your body, O Christ God,* saw Angels in the tomb and were frightened,* for they heard a message from them:* The Lord has arisen, granting the world His great mercy. Hymn of Ascent, Tone 2 Antiphon 1 I raise the eyes of my heart to You in heaven, O Saviour.* Save me by Your radiance. Have mercy, O my Christ, on us who fail You every hour and in many ways,* and grant to us the means to return to You* in repentance before the end. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit belongs sovereignty,* sanctification and the quickening of creation,* for He is God, one in essence with the Father* and the Word. Antiphon 2 If the Lord was not among us,* who could be kept safe from the one* who is both our foe and a manslayer? Do not hand Your servant over to destruction, O my Saviour.* For like a lion they come up against me,* they who are my foes. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit belongs the source of life and its honour,* for, being God, He preserves all creation* by His power* in the Father through the Son. Antiphon 3 Those who trust in the Lord are like the holy mountain:* they are utterly unshaken* by the assaults of the enemy. Let not those who live for God* stretch out their hands in iniquity;* for with the rod of His word Christ forbids such things. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit all wisdom flows forth,* grace to the Apostles,* crowns to the Martyrs,* and to the Prophets, prophetic vision. Prokeimenon, Tone 2 Lord, rise up in Your anger, rise against the fury of my foes; my God, awake! You will give judgment. Let the company of nations gather round You. verse: Lord God, I take refuge in You. From my pursuers save me and rescue me. Let everything that lives, Tone 2 Gospel Luke 24:12-35 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 2 Ode 1 Irmos: Once his overwhelming power overturned the whole of Pharaoh's army in the deep;* but the Word made flesh, the Lord of glory, blotted out the wholly wretched sin. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The prince of this world in whose books we, who disobeyed your commands, were inscribed, O Good One, has been judged by your cross; attacking you as a mortal, he fell back from the power of your might and was exposed in his weakness. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Deliverer of the race of mortal men and author of incorruptible life, you came into the world: for you tore in pieces the grave clothes of death in your resurrection, and this we glorify. Gloriously he is glorified. Glory… Now… O pure one, and ever-Virgin, you are shown to be higher than all creatures seen and unseen; for you bore the Creator since he willed to take flesh in your womb; with boldness pray to him to save our souls. Irmos: I shall open my mouth, and it will be filled with the Spirit,* and I shall utter praise to the Queen and Mother;* I shall appear radiantly keeping festival,* and joyously shall I hymn her Entry. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! O all-pure one, we know you to be a treasury of wisdom and an ever-flowing fountain of grace; and we pray that you rain down drops of knowledge upon us, that we may praise you forever. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Being a temple and palace more exalted than the heavens, O all-pure one, you were set apart in the Temple of God to be prepared as a divine dwelling place for His advent. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Shining with the Light of grace, the Theotokos has illumined all and assembled them to adorn her most splendid festival. Come, let us draw nigh to her! Glory… Now… The glorious portal which thoughts cannot pass, having opened the doors of the Temple of God, now commands us that have assembled to delight in her divine wonders. 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: The desert, the barren Church of the nations, has blossomed as a lily at your coming, O Lord;* in this my heart is made firm. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Creation at your Passion was put to confusion to see you in mean disguise and mocked by the lawless, you whose lightest nod had established the universe. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You fashioned me with your hands from the dust in your image; and when, through sin, I was crushed again into the dust of death, you, O Christ, went down with me to Hell and raised me up with yourself. Glory… Now… The ranks of angels were amazed and the hearts of men trembled, All-pure, at your giving birth; wherefore we reverence you in faith, O Mother of God. Irmos: O Theotokos, living and abundant fount,* in your divine glory establish them that hymn you* and that spiritually form themselves into a choir;* and vouchsafe to them crowns of glory. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Receiving the pure and undefiled one, who is more splendid than all creation, the animate bridal chamber of God, the beautiful Temple and chamber today appears as that which adorns the bride for her wedding. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! David, preceding the chorus, leaps and dances with us, and declares you, O all-pure one, the queen adorned, who stands in the Temple before our King and God, O most pure one. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! From her, from whom transgressions went forth among the human race, have her correction and incorruption blossomed forth, the Theotokos, who is led today into the house of God. Glory… Now… The angelic armies and a multitude of all men leap for joy, and they advance as lamp-bearers before your countenance, proclaiming your majesty in the house of God. 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! Ode 4 Irmos: You came forth from the Virgin,* not an ambassador, not an angel,* but the Lord himself made flesh,* and saved my whole humanity. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You were standing, my God, before the judgment seat as one judged, not crying out, bringing, O Lord, judgment upon the nations. Thus, through your Passion, O Christ, you wrought salvation for the world. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. By your Passion the weapons of the enemies failed, by your descent into Hell the cities of the foe were destroyed and the insolence of the tyrant overthrown. Glory… Now… All we the faithful know you a haven of salvation, a fortified city unshaken, Lady Mother of God; for by your prayers you deliver our souls from danger. Irmos: Perceiving the unfathomable counsel of God,* the incarnation from the Virgin of You, the Most High,* the prophet Habbakuk cried out:* Glory to Your power, O Lord! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! The Temple of God, receiving today the portal through whom none may pass, has ceased to perform any service of the Law, crying: Truly truth has appeared to them that are on earth! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! The mountain overshadowed, which Habbakuk beheld of old, prefigured her that has made her abode in the inaccessible chambers of the Temple, flourishing with virtues, for she covers the ends of the earth therewith. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! All the earth has seen most glorious things, things strange and marvellous, for the Virgin, receiving food from an angel, receives tokens of God’s dispensation. Glory… Now… Revealed as temple and palace and animate heaven, O divine bride of the King, you are brought today to the Temple of the Law to be kept for Him, O all-pure one. 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: Christ God, you are mediator between God and man:* through you, O Lord, we have access from the night of ignorance to your Father, the author of light. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You broke as the cedars, O Christ, the insolence of the enemy when, of your own will, O Lord, you were pleased to be lifted up in the flesh on the cypress, the pine and the cedar. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. They laid you in the lowest pit, O Christ, dead, without breath; but with your stripes you raised with yourself, O Saviour, the wounded and forgotten who slept in the graves. Glory… Now… Pray to your Son and Lord, pure Virgin, to grant deliverance to prisoners and peace from the hostile forces surrounding those who trust in you. Irmos: All things are filled with awe at your divine glory,* for you, O Virgin that have not known wedlock, had within your womb Him that is God over all,* and gave birth to the timeless Son,* granting peace to all that hymn you. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! The all-pure Virgin, the glorious sanctity and sacred offering which is brought today to the Temple of God, is preserved as a habitation for our one God, the King of all, as He Himself knows. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Zechariah, beholding once the beauty of your soul, cried out in faith: You are the deliverance, you are the joy of all, you are our restoration, through whom the Uncontainable One shall appear to me contained. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! O, your wonders which pass understanding, O all-pure one! Strange is your birthgiving; strange is the manner of your growth; strange also, most glorious and unutterable by men, are all your wonders, O Bride of God. Glory… Now… A most radiant lamp, O Bride of God, you have shone forth today in the house of the Lord and illumine us with the precious gifts of your wonders, O pure and all-hymned Theotokos. 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: Engulfed in sin's unfathomed depths* I cry to the fathomless deeps of your tender compassion;* God has brought me up* from corruption. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The righteous was judged as a criminal and nailed to the tree with the lawless with his own blood granting forgiveness to the guilty. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As by one man, the first Adam, death came of old to the world, so by one, the Son of God, resurrection has been revealed . Glory… Now… You knew no man, O Virgin, you bore a child and remained for ever virgin, revealing thus the signs of true divinity of your Son and God. Irmos: Celebrating this divine and most honoured festival of the Mother of God,* come, divinely wise, let us clap our hands and glorify God who was born of her. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! You that have upheld all things by Your word have hearkened to the prayer of the righteous ones. You have loosed the infirmity of the barren woman, in that You are compassionate, and have given them her that is the cause of joy. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Wishing to make His salvation known to the Gentiles, the Lord has now taken from among men her that has not known wedlock, as a sign of reconciliation and renewal. Most Holy Theotokos, save us! As a house of grace, wherein treasures of the ineffable dispensation of God are laid up, O most pure one, you shared in unfading delight in the Temple. Glory… Now… Receiving you as a royal diadem, O Bride of God, the Temple has been made splendid and has mounted to better things, beholding in you the fulfilment of the prophecies. 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 2 You rose from the tomb, O almighty Saviour;* and Hades, seeing this wonder, was stricken with fear; and the dead arose.* Creation saw and rejoices with You, and Adam exults.* And the world, my Saviour, sings Your praises for ever. Ikos Light you are to those endarkened, resurrection you are to all and life to mortal man; and when you, the Saviour, raised up all with yourself and despoiled the might of death, when you, O Word, shattered the gates of Hell, the dead saw it and marvelled at the marvel and all creation rejoiced together in your resurrection, O Lover of man. For all of this we glorify and sing your coming down to us and all the universe, my Saviour, hymns you for ever. Ode 7 Irmos: The godless decree of the lawless tyrant* re-kindled the soaring flames,* Christ let fall on the God-fearing children the dew of the Spirit.* He is blessed and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your tender compassion, O Lord, would not allow you to see mankind beneath the sway of death but you came and saved him by your own blood, becoming man. He is blessed and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Seeing you clothed in the robe of vengeance, O Christ. Hell’s doorkeepers cowered in fear for you came to master, O Lord, the slave, the reasonless tyrant. He is blessed and glorious above all. Glory… Now… We know you the Holy of Holies, Virgin unspotted, Mother unwedded, for you alone bore the unchangeable God: by your divine giving birth you have shed incorruption on all the faithful. Irmos: The divinely wise youths worshipped not a creation rather than the Creator,* but, manfully trampling the threat of the fire underfoot, they rejoiced, chanting:* Blessed are You,* the all-hymned Lord and God of our fathers! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Lo, today a joyous spring has dawned upon the ends of the earth, enlightening our souls, thoughts and minds with grace: the festival of the Theotokos. Let us mystically feast this day! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Let all things, heaven and earth, the ranks of angels, and the multitude of men, bear gifts today to the Queen and Mother of God; and let them cry out: Our joy and deliverance is brought to the Temple! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! The Scriptures have come to pass, the Law has faded like a shadow, and rays of grace have shone forth upon you who have entered into the Temple of God, O pure Virgin Mother, wherein you are blessed. Glory… Now… Heaven and earth and the netherworld are subject to your Offspring as Creator and God, O most pure one, and every nation of mortals confesses that the Lord and Saviour of our souls has appeared. 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: Once in Babylon by divine command* the blazing furnace divided its work,* the Chaldaeans consuming, the faithful bedewing,* who sang: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The ranks of angels saw the garment of your flesh empurpled with your blood, in trembling amazement at the magnitude of your longsuffering, crying: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Through your rising, O Merciful, you have clothed my mortality with deathlessness; therefore in glad thanksgiving your chosen people raise to you a song of praise, crying: Truly death is swallowed up in victory. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The One inseparable from the Father and humanly, divinely, dwelling in your womb, you conceived without seed and brought forth inexpressibly, Birth-giver of God, all-pure. By this we know you the salvation of us all. Irmos: Hearken, O pure Virgin Theotokos!* Let Gabriel give utterance to the true and ancient counsel of the Most High:* Make ready to receive God!* For through you has the Boundless One come to dwell with men:* Wherefore, rejoicing, I cry out:* Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Anna, once, leading the all-pure temple to the house of God, faithfully said to the priest, crying aloud: Now accept this child, given me by God; lead her into the Temple of the Creator; and, rejoicing, chant to Him: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! And Zechariah then, beholding them in the Spirit, said to Anna: You bring here the true Mother of Life, whom the prophets of God have clearly foretold as the Theotokos! How, therefore, can the Temple hold her? Wherefore, marvelling, I cry out: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! The handmaid of God have I been, answered Anna to him, and I call upon Him with faith and prayer to accept the fruit of my birth-pangs, that, having received this child, I might bring her that was born to Him that bestowed her. I cry aloud: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord! Glory… Now… Truly this is a matter of the Law, the priest said to her, and strange does this thing seem to me, beholding her that most gloriously surpasses the holy ones in grace led into the house of God. Rejoicing, I cry out: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord! 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: The Son of the unbegun Begetter, God and Lord, made flesh of the Virgin,* has appeared among us to bring light to the darkened places* and to gather the scattered together.* Therefore, we magnify the all-praised Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. On Golgotha, as in Paradise, there was planted, O Saviour, the thrice-happy tree of your pure cross, nourished by your blood divine and water; so from the wellspring of your holy side, O Christ, life has blossomed for us. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The crucified, the all-powerful, laid low the strong man armed, and the nature of man, lying below in the dungeon of Hell, he raised and placed on the Father's throne; coming in the midst of which we, worshipping, magnify you. Glory… Now… In the true faith singing, let us the faithful glorify the Trinity, three in number, one in substance, indivisible nature, supremely divine, triply shining light and never-setting radiance, the only uncompounded shedding light upon all. Irmos: May the hands of the profane* in no wise touch the Theotokos, the animate ark of God;* but let the lips of the faithful, unceasingly chanting the cry of the angel, joyfully cry out:* Truly you are more highly exalted than all, O pure Virgin! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! O pure Theotokos, as you have the most radiant beauty of purity of soul and are full of the grace of God from heaven, with the ever-existent light you ever enlighten them that cry out with joy: Truly you are more highly exalted than all, O pure Virgin! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Your wonder surpasses the power of words, O pure Theotokos, for in you I perceive a body impervious to the movement of sin. Thankfully I cry out to you: Truly you are more highly exalted than all, O pure Virgin! Most Holy Theotokos, save us! Most gloriously did the Law prefigure you, O pure one, as the tabernacle, the divine jar, the awesome ark, the veil, the staff, the inviolable temple and portal of God. All these things teach us to cry to you: Truly you are more highly exalted than all, O pure Virgin! Glory… Now… In hymnody David cried out to you prophetically, calling you the daughter of the King in the comeliness of your virtues, beholding you standing, elaborately adorned, at the right hand of God. In prophecy he cried out: Truly you are more highly exalted than all, O pure Virgin! 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 Christ our Way and our Life,* after His resurrection from the dead,* accompanied Luke and Cleopas,* who had recognized Him at Emmaus in the breaking of the bread.* Their hearts and souls were inflamed as He spoke to them on the way,* explaining to them all the Scriptures that pertained to Him.* Let us, therefore, shout with them, saying:* Truly, the Lord is risen and has appeared to Peter. Glory… Aflame with wisdom, O virgin Catherine, most honourable of women, glory of passion-bearers, through God you denounced the skill of the philosophers as foolishness and fables, having acquired the truly all-immaculate Mother of God as companion. Now… The ranks of angels and choir of martyrs celebrate with us today on the divine entry of the godly Maiden and Mother of the Lord, together with Joachim and Anna, and the steadfast Mercurius and the all-glorious Catherine. By their prayers may we find remission of our offenses, we pray. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 2 Everything that breathes and every creature glorifies You, O Lord,* for through Your Cross You destroyed death* and thus shown the multitude of peoples Your Resurrection from the dead,* as You alone love mankind. Let the Jews tell how the soldiers lost the King they were guarding.* Why then did the stone not guard the rock of life?* Either let them give up the one who was buried or adore Him as risen,* exclaiming together with us:* Glory to the multitude of Your mercies:* O Saviour, glory be to You! Rejoice O peoples and be glad!* for an Angel sat upon the grave stone* and gave us good tidings saying:* Christ is risen from the dead* and has filled the universe with sweet fragrance.* Rejoice O peoples and be glad!' Before Your conception, O Lord,* an Angel brought the greeting ‘Rejoice’ to the one full of grace:* at Your Resurrection an Angel rolled away the stone from Your glorious grave.* The one revealed the signs of joy instead of sorrow;* the other instead of death has proclaimed to us the Master, and giver of life.* Wherefore we cry to You:* O Benefactor of all mankind,* Lord, glory be to You! Tone 4 Celebrating the most sacred memory of your honoured suffering, O all-praised Catherine,* with unceasing cries we glorify Jesus, the Lover of mankind,* our Saviour and Lord, who gave you steadfast patience* and showed you forth as victorious,* and granted you discourse, and awed the rhetors. Celebrating the most sacred memory of your honoured suffering, O all-praised Catherine,* with unceasing cries we glorify Jesus, the Lover of mankind,* our Saviour and Lord, who gave you steadfast patience* and showed you forth as victorious,* and granted you discourse, and awed the rhetors. O willing martyr, most glorious Catherine,* you appeared earnestly denouncing the tyrant and the wicked madness of polytheism,* setting them at naught with the radiance of knowledge of God and divine grace.* Thus, Christ, the Saviour of our souls, has crowned her as a martyr* and an immaculate virgin. With the opening of your mouth, O most glorious Catherine,* you received the grace of the Spirit;* and having cleansed yourself by your life and patient thought,* you trampled down the audacity of the tyrant,* and with divine wisdom preferred spiritual beauty to the beauty of the body,* O adornment of passion-bearers. Tone 5, Glory… How wise are Your judgments, O Christ!* You granted Peter the understanding of Your resurrection by the burial wrappings alone.* Even though You accompanied Luke and Cleopas and conversed with them,* yet You did not reveal Yourself.* You were taunted by them as though You alone were a stranger in Jerusalem,* not knowing what had recently happened there.* But since You ordained all things for the good of each,* You explained to them what the prophets had spoken concerning You.* In the breaking of the bread they recognized You* because their hearts were already burning with the desire to know You.* When they came together with the disciples,* they proclaimed openly Your divine resurrection* by which we ask that You have mercy upon us. 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” Troparion, Tone 4: Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 2: You rose from the tomb, O almighty Saviour;* and Hades, seeing this wonder, was stricken with fear; and the dead arose.* Creation saw and rejoices with You, and Adam exults.* And the world, my Saviour, sings Your praises for ever. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: The Saviour’s pure temple,* the precious bridal chamber and Virgin,* the sacred treasury of the glory of God,* is brought today into the house of the Lord;* and with her she brings the grace of the divine Spirit.* God’s angels sing in praise of her:* She is indeed the heavenly dwelling-place. Prokeimenon, Tone 2 The Lord is my strength and my song of praise, and He has become my salvation. verse: The Lord has indeed chastised me, but He has not delivered me to death. (Psalm 117:14,18) Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour. Epistle Ephesians 6:10-17 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: The Lord will hear you in the day of tribulation; the name of the God of Jacob will shield you. verse: Lord, grant victory to the king and hear us in the day that we shall call upon You. (Psalm 19:2,10) verse: Hear, O daughter, and see, and incline your ear. Gospel Luke 13:10-17 Hymn to the Mother of God Seeing the entrance of the pure one, angels marvel in wonder how the Virgin could enter the holy of holies And the Irmos, Tone 4: Let no hand of the profane touch God’s living ark,* but instead let the lips of those who are believers* sing out ceaselessly in the words of the angel,* crying out with great joy to the Mother of God:* O pure Virgin,* you are truly higher than all. Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* I will take the cup of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 115:13):

Nov 23, 2024 - Our Holy Fathers Amphilochius, Bishop of Iconium, and Gregory, Bishop of Agrigentum.

Sat, 23 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 23, 2024 Post-feast of the Entrance of the Mother of God. Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Having inherited a mind with free will* and an intellect with absolute power over the passions,* O most blessed father, you imparted intelligent mastery to your higher part,* that, weighed with a scale most true, it might go higher.* You are admitted to divine vision and the knowledge of God,* O divinely inspired hierarch. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You broke asunder the snares and foiled the pursuit of the heretics, O venerable father,* avoiding division and most wicked contraction* by the rightness of your dogmas and most excellent theology;* and, remaining within the bounds of our pious faith,* you preached the Trinity in the unity of the Godhead. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Skillfully instructing him who reigned on earth,* you passed over his son without rendering him homage,* teaching him sensibly that when the Son is ignored as unworthy of worship* the Father is exceedingly displeased,* who, in manner past understanding, begat Him before time dispassionately as One incorporeal,* as He Himself knows, O venerable one. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O sacred father Gregory, you were offered to God,* cleaving from your earliest infancy to Him who with His mighty hands created all things,* and illumined by Him, you passed through the night of the passions* and shone forth the light of healings and miracles of grace,* dispelling lingering ailments and the spirits of deception. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O wondrous father Gregory,* in purity you illumined your mind with manifestations of light,* stilled the raging sea of the passions,* and taking wing with dispassion on pinions most precious,* you attained to where there is ineffable and inconceivable beauty,* ever praying for us who praise you. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O Gregory, father of fathers,* you were a standard of the priesthood,* model of chastity, beacon of love, throne of sensibility,* wellspring of miracles, tongue of fiery inspiration, mouth of sweet discourse,* vessel of the divine Spirit and noetic garden of paradise,* O blessed of God. In Tone 1, Glory… Now... Let us sing a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary,* glory of the whole world!* She was herself formed by human seed,* yet she became the Mother of the Master, the Gate of heaven,* the theme of the angels’ hymn and beauty of the faithful.* She was seen as being heavenly* and the Tabernacle of the Godhead.* She indeed tore down the wall of enmity between God and man,* and brought peace in its place.* She opened up the kingdom of heaven.* Let us therefore cling fast to her for she is the anchor of faith,* and let us receive as our stronghold the Lord Who was born of her.* Be of good cheer, then, and have confidence, O people of God,* for He will fight our enemies for us,* He is all-powerful! Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 1 Let the virgins be brought to the King in the temple of the Lord,* following you, O Virgin,* joining chorus with radiant lamps,* preceding you into the holy place, O pure one,* as you were the holy ark of God,* says David, the ancestor of God. The virgins that follow after her shall be brought to the King,* those near her shall be brought to You. Let the gates of the temple of the Lord be made ready,* and let the house of glory be opened wide,* and, rejoicing, let them receive her who alone is far greater than the heavens* and surpasses understanding,* and let them hymn Christ the Saviour. They shall be brought with gladness and rejoicing,* they shall be brought into the temple of the King. Let the portals of the most divine temple be opened,* let them receive the gate of heaven within themselves;* let human nature keep festival, and let the angels leap up,* all of them celebrating with us* the entry of the Mother of God. Tone 5, Glory… Now… The day of joy and the most honored feast has shone forth!* For today she who remained Virgin after giving birth, as she was before birthgiving,* is led into the temple of the Lord,* and the elder Zachariah, the father of the forerunner,* rejoices and cries out in gladness:* “The intercessor for the sorrowful draws nigh to the holy temple, in that she is holy,* to be hallowed in the habitation of the King of all!* Let Joachim, her forebearer, be glad, and let Anna rejoice!* For they have offered to God the unblemished Mistress like a heifer three years of age.* Rejoice, you mothers! Leap up, O virgins!* You barren women, join chorus!* For the Queen of all, who has been foretold,* has opened to us the kingdom of heaven!* Rejoice, you people, and be glad!” Troparia Tone 4 Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. Glory… Now… God of our fathers, You always treat us fairly.* Deprive us not of Your mercy,* but by their prayers direct our lives in peace. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. Troparion, Tone 4: God of our fathers, You always treat us fairly.* Deprive us not of Your mercy,* but by their prayers direct our lives in peace. Kontakion, Tone 2: You are thunder in the sky and a heavenly trumpet,* a hatchet against heresy, a labourer in the vineyard,* a great teacher of the dogma of the Trinity, and a bishop.* O Amphilochius, pray unceasingly with the angels for all of us. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 4: The Church shines with the splendour of the Holy Spirit* upon those who celebrate your joyful passage into eternal life,* O most blessed father Gregory. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: The Saviour’s pure temple,* the precious bridal chamber and Virgin,* the sacred treasury of the glory of God,* is brought today into the house of the Lord;* and with her she brings the grace of the divine Spirit.* God’s angels sing in praise of her:* She is indeed the heavenly dwelling-place. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46-48) Epistle Galatians 5:22-6:2 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Hear, O daughter, and see, and incline your ear. verse: The rich among the people shall entreat your countenance. (Psalm 44:11,13) Gospel Luke 10:19-21 Hymn to the Mother of God Seeing the entrance of the pure one, angels marvel in wonder how the Virgin could enter the holy of holies And the Irmos, Tone 4: Let no hand of the profane touch God’s living ark,* but instead let the lips of those who are believers* sing out ceaselessly in the words of the angel,* crying out with great joy to the Mother of God:* O pure Virgin,* you are truly higher than all. Communion Hymn I will take the cup of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 115:13):

Nov 22, 2024 - The Holy Apostle Philemon and those with him.

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 22, 2024 Post-feast of the Entrance of the Mother of God. Nativity Fast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 8 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O wonder most glorious!* The Ineffable One is now prefigured.* She is known today in visible images* because the Divine Light shone forth for the world.* The betrothed is led into the holy temple.* Let us exalt her as the splendid and holy One,* the light-radiating Temple of Christ the Light-Giver. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. The wise Joachim and Anne* offered up a truly acceptable first fruit,* the heavenly fruit that God clearly desired to give to them,* the handmaiden of God, the Virgin Mary.* Her tribulations took away the debt.* Let us praise her and devoutly rejoice* because she is the mediatrix of joy for the whole world. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Come let us mystically gather together.* Adorned with the light of faith,* let us walk before the Virgin* who now gloriously enters the temple of God.* She is betrothed to Christ, the King of all.* We celebrate the beautiful feast of her entrance* which is a delight to everyone. Tone 2 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O glorious Philemon,* as a branch of the Living Vine,* you have rained the joy of the knowledge of God* upon those who have anguish of soul.* You made happy the hearts that were ensnared* and possessed by the darkness of idol worship.* Therefore, we rejoice and celebrate your God-loving memory. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O blessed one, the city of Gaza venerates you,* since It beheld the light of knowledge through you.* The Colossians hold onto your holy body as a rich possession* which overflows with the grace of healing.* Therefore, O glorious Philemon, we observe your memory* and are protected from dangers by your prayers. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. In faith let us praise the wise ones,* the hierarchs Archippus and the precious Apphias.* Let us honour the priestly preachers* and honourable teachers, Philemon and Onesimus.* They rooted out the cunning of idol worship by preaching* and planted the knowledge of truth* for all who devoutly honour them. Tone 1, Glory… Now… Today let the heavens above greatly rejoice* and let the clouds pour down gladness* at the mighty and marvelous acts of our God.* For behold, the gate that looks towards the East,* born from a fruitless and barren womb according to the promise,* and consecrated to God as his dwelling,* is now being brought into the temple as a spotless offering.* Let David greatly rejoice and play on his harp, saying:* Virgins shall be brought to the King after her;* her companions shall be brought into the ark of the Lord* to be nourished with the life of the incorruptible One* who was begotten from eternity* for the salvation of our souls. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 2 Today the assembly of virgins,* singing psalms and carrying candles,* brightly leads the procession* in honour of the all-Immaculate One. She is led to the King with her maiden companions. O prophet, receive the Spiritual Mountain,* the Sanctuary, the Divine Altar,* and the Ark which contained the manna,* the all-Immaculate One. They are escorted amid gladness and joy; they pass within the palace of the King. Open up the doors of the sanctuary, O prophet Zechariah;* truly receive the Mother of God.* She is the ever-Virgin. Glory… Now… Today the all-Immaculate Virgin* is being escorted into the temple* to become the abode of God, the King of all.* Today, as a three year old child,* the most pure holy One is being led into the Holy of Holies.* With the angel, let us cry out to her:* Rejoice, for you alone are blessed among women. Troparia Tone 3 O holy apostles, intercede with the all-merciful God,* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. Tone 4, Glory… Now… Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. Troparion, Tone 3: Holy Apostle, Philemon, intercede with the merciful God* to grant our souls forgiveness of sins. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 4: The Saviour’s pure temple,* the precious bridal chamber and Virgin,* the sacred treasury of the glory of God,* is brought today into the house of the Lord;* and with her she brings the grace of the divine Spirit.* God’s angels sing in praise of her:* She is indeed the heavenly dwelling-place. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: As a star most bright the Church forever possess you,* O Apostle Philemon,* for she is illumined by the frequent gift of your miracles.* And so we call out to Christ:* “Save those who venerate in faith the memory of Your apostle,* O most merciful One!” Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46-48) Epistle 2 Timothy 1:1-2, 8-18 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Hear, O daughter, and see, and incline your ear. verse: The rich among the people shall entreat your countenance. (Psalm 44:11,13) Gospel Luke 19:12-28 Hymn to the Mother of God Seeing the entrance of the pure one, angels marvel in wonder how the Virgin could enter the holy of holies And the Irmos, Tone 4: Let no hand of the profane touch God’s living ark,* but instead let the lips of those who are believers* sing out ceaselessly in the words of the angel,* crying out with great joy to the Mother of God:* O pure Virgin,* you are truly higher than all. Communion Hymn I will take the cup of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 115:13):

Nov 21, 2024 - The Entrance into the Temple of our Most Holy Lady, the Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary.

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 21, 2024 Feast of the Mother of God. Holy Day of Obligation. GREAT VESPERS WITH LYTIA ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! O faithful, let us leap for joy today,* singing psalms and hymns of praise* in honour of Mary, his mother,* the holy Tabernacle and Ark that contained the Word* whom nothing can contain.* She is offered to God as a child in a marvellous way,* and Zechariah the high priest receives her with great joy,* for she is the dwelling place of the Most High. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. O faithful, let us leap for joy today,* singing psalms and hymns of praise* in honour of Mary, his mother,* the holy Tabernacle and Ark that contained the Word* whom nothing can contain.* She is offered to God as a child in a marvellous way,* and Zechariah the high priest receives her with great joy,* for she is the dwelling place of the Most High. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Today the living Temple of the holy glory of Christ our God,* Mary, the pure and blessed One,* is being brought into the temple according to the Law* to live in its holy precincts.* Joachim and Anne and all the virgins* rejoice with her in spirit.* They sing hymns of praise to the Lord* and honour his Mother. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Today the living Temple of the holy glory of Christ our God,* Mary, the pure and blessed One,* is being brought into the temple according to the Law* to live in its holy precincts.* Joachim and Anne and all the virgins* rejoice with her in spirit.* They sing hymns of praise to the Lord* and honour his Mother. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Virgin Mother of God,* you are the One foretold by the prophets.* You are the glory of the apostles* and the pride of martyrs* and the cause of renewal for the entire human race.* Through you we have been reconciled with God.* Therefore, we honour your entrance into the temple of the Lord.* Together with the angels, all of us who are saved by your prayers sing to you:* Rejoice, O most holy One. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. The holy and immaculate One* is being led into the Holy of Holies by the Holy Spirit.* She is being nourished by angels,* since she is the holy Temple of our holy God.* He has sanctified all creation because of her entrance,* and He has deified our fallen human nature. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Today the maidens rejoice.* Carrying lamps, they piously escort Mary,* the spiritual lamp, into the Holy of Holies.* This is a foreshadowing of the splendid Light* that will shine forth from her,* the Light that will enlighten all* who sit in the darkness of ignorance. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The most praiseworthy Anne cries out in great joy:* O Zechariah, receive the One whom the prophets of God* foretold through the Spirit.* Escort her into the holy temple,* since she is to be the sublime Temple,* the palace, throne, and wondrous abode of our God. Tone 8, Glory… Now… O Lady and Bride of God,* you entered the temple of God in your infancy* to be brought up in the Holy of Holies,* for you are holy.* The archangel Gabriel was sent to serve you and bring you food.* All the heavenly powers were amazed* at the sight of the Holy Spirit dwelling in you.* Therefore, O most pure and immaculate Mother of God,* since you are glorified in heaven and on earth,* through your prayers save our human race. Readings (1) Exodus 40:1-5,9-10,16,34-35; (2) I Kings 7:51-8:1, 3-7, 9-11; (3) Ezekiel 43:27-44:4 Litiya Tone 1 Today let the heavens above greatly rejoice* and let the clouds pour down gladness* at the mighty and marvellous acts of our God.* For behold, the gate that looks towards the East,* born from a fruitless and barren womb according to the promise,* and consecrated to God as his dwelling,* is now being brought into the temple* as a spotless offering.* Let David greatly rejoice and play on his harp, saying:* Virgins shall be brought to the king after her;* her companions shall be brought into the ark of the Lord* to be nourished with the life of the Incorruptible One* who was begotten from eternity* for the salvation of our souls. Tone 4 Today the Theotokos, the Temple that is to contain God,* is being escorted into the temple of the Lord,* and Zechariah receives her.* Today the Holy of Holies greatly rejoices,* and the choir of angels mystically celebrates this feast.* Let us also celebrate with them today* and cry out with Gabriel:* Rejoice, O Full of Grace, the Lord is with you,* and He grants us great mercy. Come all you people,* and let us praise the only Immaculate One* who was foretold by the prophets* and is being led into the temple.* She was chosen from eternity to be the Mother;* and in time she was revealed as the Theotokos.* O Lord, by her prayers grant us your peace and great mercy. Tone 5, Glory… Now… A day of joy has truly dawned.* It is a most precious feast for us,* because she who was virgin before and after childbirth,* today is offered in the temple.* The aged Zechariah, father of the Forerunner, cries aloud, rejoicing:* The intercessor of those in affliction* comes into the holy temple, since she herself is holy.* She will be sanctified in the abode of the King of all.* Let her father, Joachim, be glad* and let Anne rejoice exceedingly,* because they have offered to God* the immaculate Queen as a three year old child.* Rejoice with them, all you women;* all you virgins and barren ones, dance for joy* and celebrate with them,* for the Queen of all has opened the kingdom of heaven for us.* Let all people be glad and rejoice. Aposticha Tone 5 Heaven and earth today rejoice together* at the sight of the mystical heaven;* the immaculate and pure Virgin is coming into the holy temple* to be brought up in honour. Zechariah, rejoicing in her and leaping for joy,* cried out in awe: O Door of the Lord,* I open the doors of the temple to you,* because I know and believe that the salvation of Israel is already coming,* that the Word of God will be born from you,* and that He will grant great mercy to the world. She is led to the King with her maiden companions. When Anne, which means grace,* was graced with the pure and ever-Virgin Mary,* she presented her into the temple of God.* She called maidens to carry candles and walk before her as she said:* O child, go to be an offering* and a fragrant incense for the One who sent you to me.* Enter into the veiled places and learn the mysteries of God.* Prepare yourself to be a delightful dwelling place for Jesus* who will give great mercy to the world. They are escorted amid gladness and joy; they pass within the palace of the King. The all-holy Virgin is handed over into the temple.* Maidens carrying candles go before her.* Her parents, the devoted couple, Joachim and Anne, joyfully celebrate,* for they have given birth in the flesh to the One who will bear the Creator.* She will dance for joy in the temple of God* and will be fed by the hand of an angel.* The all-immaculate Mother of Christ has appeared,* and He will grant great mercy to the world. Tone 6, Glory… Now… O assembly of the faithful,* let us celebrate this day as a spiritual feast.* With great love, let us honour the maiden of God,* the Virgin and Theotokos,* as she is presented into the temple of the Lord;* for she has been chosen from among all generations* to be the dwelling place of Christ our God* who is the King of all.* O virgins, carry candles and lead the way* for the entrance of the ever-Virgin.* Follow after her who is the Mother of God* and mediatrix for the joy of the world.* Therefore, let us all cry out together with the angels:* Rejoice, for you are full of grace,* and you continually pray for our souls. Troparion Tone 4 Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfillment of the Creator’s plan. (3) FESTAL MATINS ON THURSDAY MORNING Hexapsalm Great Ekteny The Lord Is God, Tone 4 Troparion, Tone 4 Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfillment of the Creator’s plan. (2) Glory… Now… Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfillment of the Creator’s plan. Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. Little Ekteny Sessional Hymn I, Tone 1 The fruit of righteous Joachim and Ann* is brought as an offering to God in the holy sanctuary,* she who sustains our life, a young child in the flesh;* and she receives the blessing of Zacharias the priest.* Let all of us in faith call her blessed, for she is the Mother of the Lord. Glory… Now… The fruit of righteous Joachim and Ann* is brought as an offering to God in the holy sanctuary,* she who sustains our life, a young child in the flesh;* and she receives the blessing of Zacharias the priest.* Let all of us in faith call her blessed, for she is the Mother of the Lord. Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. Little Ekteny Sessional Hymn II, Tone 4 Before your conception, O pure Virgin,* you were consecrated to God;* and now after your birth you are offered as a gift to Him* in fulfillment of your parents’ promise.* To the divine temple you are brought,* yourself a Temple truly divine, innocent from the time you were a babe;* you have appeared in the sanctuary accompanied by brightly burning lamps,* who are the Receiver of the Divine Light that no man can approach.* Magnificent in truth is your entry,* O only Bride of God and ever-Virgin. Glory… Now… Before your conception, O pure Virgin,* you were consecrated to God;* and now after your birth you are offered as a gift to Him* in fulfillment of your parents’ promise.* To the divine temple you are brought,* yourself a Temple truly divine, innocent from the time you were a babe;* you have appeared in the sanctuary accompanied by brightly burning lamps,* who are the Receiver of the Divine Light that no man can approach.* Magnificent in truth is your entry,* O only Bride of God and ever-Virgin. Polyeleos Exaltation We extol you,* O most holy Virgin!* Maiden chosen of God!* And we honour your entry into the temple! verses: Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised: In the city of our God and in His holy mountain!... Holy is Your temple, and wonderful in righteousness!... Glory…Now… Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to You, O God! (3 times) Sidalen, Tone 8 Let David the Psalmist greatly rejoice,* let Joachim and Ann be glad,* for a holy child has come forth from them,* Mary the Lamp that bears the Divine Light;* and she rejoices as she enters the temple.* The son of Zarachias, beholding her, gave her his blessing and cried out in joy:* “Hail, you wonder of the all the world!” Glory… Now… Let David the Psalmist greatly rejoice,* let Joachim and Ann be glad,* for a holy child has come forth from them,* Mary the Lamp that bears the Divine Light;* and she rejoices as she enters the temple.* The son of Zarachias, beholding her, gave her his blessing and cried out in joy:* “Hail, you wonder of the all the world!” Gradual Hymns Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline your ear. verse: My heart is overflowing with noble words. Let Everything That Has Breath, Tone 4 Gospel Luke 1:39-49, 56 After Psalm 50 Tone 2, Glory… Today the living Temple of the great King* enters the temple to be prepared as a divine dwelling-place for Him.* O people, rejoice exceedingly. Now… Today the living Temple of the great King* enters the temple to be prepared as a divine dwelling-place for Him.* O people, rejoice exceedingly. Tone 4 Have mercy on me, God, in your kindness. In your compassion, blot out my offense. Today the Theotokos, the Temple that is to hold God,* is led into the temple of the Lord,* and Zacharias receives her.* Today the Holy of Holies rejoices greatly,* and the choir of angels mystically keeps feast.* With them let us also celebrate the festival today,* and let us cry aloud with Gabriel:* Hail, O you who are full of grace: the Lord is with you,* He who has great mercy. Canon Ode 1 Irmos I shall open my mouth and the Spirit will inspire it, and I shall utter the words of my song to the Queen and Most holy Theotokos, save us. Mother: I shall be seen radiantly keeping feast and joyfully praising her entry. Most holy Theotokos, save us. grace. We therefore pray: O Lady, let fall some drops of knowledge upon us, that we may sing your praises for ever. Most holy Theotokos, save us. You who are honoured, O Most Holy, far above the heavens, you who are both Temple and Palace, you are dedicated in the temple of God, to be prepared as a divine dwelling-place for His coming. Most holy Theotokos, save us. She who made the light of grace shine forth, the Theotokos, has illuminated all men and brought them together to adorn with songs her most radiant triumph. O come, let us join them and hasten to her. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Having opened the gates of the temple of God, the Glorious Gate’ through which human thoughts cannot pass now urges us to enter with her and to delight in her divine marvels. Irmos Let us all sing a triumphant song unto God who has done wondrous things with His mighty arm, and has saved Israel: for He has been glorified. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let us this day hasten together to the Theotokos, honouring her in songs, and let us keep spiritual feast. For she is offered in the temple as a gift to God. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let us praise in songs the glorious advance of the Theotokos. For today as a precious gift she is prophetically offered in the temple, who is herself a Temple of God. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Ann without reproach greatly rejoiced, offering her child in the temple as a precious gift to God, while Joachim, bright with joy, kept feast with her. Most holy Theotokos, save us. David the forefather praised you of old in hymns, O Virgin Bride of God, calling you Daughter of Christ the King: Him you have borne as Mother and you have fed Him as your child. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The Theotokos, when she was three years old after the flesh, was led to the Lord; and Zacharias, the priest of God, received her in the temple with rejoicing and established her there. Most holy Theotokos, save us. You virgins carrying lamps, be of good cheer today and begin the song; you mothers, join them in praises to the Queen and Mother, as she enters the temple of Christ the King. Glory… O Trinity, one in essence, Father, Word, and Holy Spirit, with faith we glorify You as Maker of all, and in reverence we cry: Save us, O God. Now… The King and God goes forth wearing the purple dyed from your blood, O All-Undefiled. He has renewed all mankind in His compassion. Katavasia: Christ is born, give glory. Christ comes from heaven, meet Him. Christ is on earth, be exalted. O all the earth, sing unto the Lord, and sing praises in gladness, O people, for He has been glorified. Ode 3 Irmos O Mother of God, living and plentiful fount, give strength to those united in spiritual fellowship, who sing hymns of praise to you: and on this day of your venerable entry, vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Today has the temple become a wedding adornment and a fair chamber for the Virgin, as it receives the living Bridal Chamber of God, pure and without spot, she who shines more brightly than all the creation. Most holy Theotokos, save us. David, leading the dance, leaps in gladness and rejoices with us, and you, O undefiled and all-pure Virgin, he calls the Queen, clad in raiment of many-coloured needlework, standing in the temple before the King and God.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. From Eve of old the transgression came upon mankind, and now from Eve’s stock has flowered forth our restoration and incorruption, even the Theotokos, who is brought today into the house of God. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The hosts of angels and the multitude of all mankind dance today before your face, O all-pure Lady, and carrying lamps they go before you, proclaiming your greatness in the house of God. Irmos Let my heart be established in Your will, O Christ my God, who has established the second heaven above the waters, and has founded the earth upon the floods, in Your almighty power. Most holy Theotokos, save us. O You who love the feasts, celebrate and be glad in spirit, exulting today in the holy feast of the Daughter of the King and the Mother of our God. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Be glad today, O Joachim, and rejoice exceedingly in spirit, O Ann, who now present unto the Lord your daughter, as a three-year old victim of sacrifice, holy and utterly without spot. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Dwelling-place of God, the Theotokos Mary, three years old after the flesh, is offered in the holy temple, and the virgins her companions, carrying lamps, go before her. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The ewe-lamb of God without spot, the dove without blemish, the tabernacle that is to hold God, the sanctuary of the glory, has chosen to dwell in the holy temple. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Three years old in the flesh and many years old in spirit, more spacious than the heavens and higher than the powers above, let the Bride of God be praised in song. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Celebrating the coming of the Theotokos into the sanctuary, let us too, carrying lamps today in spirit, go in joy with the virgins to the temple. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Priests of God, clothe yourselves by grace in righteousness, going in joy to meet the Daughter of the King and God as she enters the Holy Place. Glory… The Father is Light, His Son is Light, and the Spirit, the Comforter, is Light: for, shining forth as from one sun, the Trinity divinely illuminates and preserves our souls. Now… The prophets proclaimed you in ages past, speaking of you as ark of holiness, golden censer, candlestick, and table; and we sing your praises as the Tabernacle that held God. Katavasia: To the Son who was begotten of the Father without change before all ages, and in the last times was without seed made flesh of the Virgin, to Christ our God let us cry aloud: You have raised up our horn, holy are You, O Lord. Little Ekteny Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 Cry out, O David, what is this present feast?* Is it for her of whom you have sung in the Book of Psalms,* calling her Daughter, Child of God and Virgin, saying:* ‘Her companions the virgins that follow her shall be mystically led unto the King?’* Make this feast to be held in honour throughout all the world by those who cry:* The Theotokos is come among us, mediator of salvation. Glory… Now… Cry out, O David, what is this present feast?* Is it for her of whom you have sung in the Book of Psalms,* calling her Daughter, Child of God and Virgin, saying:* ‘Her companions the virgins that follow her shall be mystically led unto the King?’* Make this feast to be held in honour throughout all the world by those who cry:* The Theotokos is come among us, mediator of salvation. Ode 4 Irmos Perceiving the unsearchable purpose of God concerning Your Incarnation from a Virgin, O Most High, the prophet Habakkuk cried: Glory to Your power, O Lord. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Today the house of God receives the Gate through which none may pass; so it has brought an end to the worship commanded by the shadow of the Law, and it cries aloud: ‘Verily the truth has appeared to those on earth.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. The overshadowed mountain that Habakkuk foresaw and announced prophetically in days of old, has come to dwell within the sanctuary of the temple; there she has put forth flowers of virtue and with her shadow she covers the ends of the earth. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let us, with all the earth, look upon these marvellous, strange, and wonderful events: how the Virgin, receiving food from an angel, offers us an image of the divine dispensation. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Appearing as a Temple and a Palace and living Heaven, you are dedicated today in the temple of the Law, to be kept therein, O undefiled Bride of God. Irmos O prophet Habakkuk, you have foreseen in spirit the Incarnation of the Word, and have proclaimed crying: ‘You shall be acknowledged when the years draw nigh; You shall be made manifest when the times come. Glory to Your power, O Lord.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. O prophet Isaiah, prophesy to us: who is the Virgin that shall conceive? ‘It is she who has come forth from the root of Judah and who was born of David the King, glorious fruit of a holy seed.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. O virgins, begin your songs, and with lamps in hand praise the advance of the pure Theotokos, who now enters the temple of the Lord, and keep feast with us. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Be glad, O Joachim and Ann, who now present unto the Lord in the temple, as a three-year old victim of sacrifice, your daughter that shall be the pure Mother of Christ our God, the King of all. Most holy Theotokos, save us. O venerable Holy of Holies, you love to dwell in the holy temple; and you abide, O Virgin, in converse with angels, receiving bread most marvellously from heaven, O you who sustains our life. Most holy Theotokos, save us. When all hope was gone, Joachim and Ann gave birth to the undefiled Virgin, and in piety they promised to offer her to God. Today they fulfil their promise, giving their child as a sacrifice in the house of God. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The rod of Aaron once put forth shoot, prefiguring, O undefiled Virgin, your divine childbirth. For without seed shall you conceive and not suffer corruption; and after bearing child shall you remain Virgin, giving suck to a babe who is God of all. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Virgins, with piety hasten to the Virgin, and mothers to the Mother: together let us honour the Child born to Joachim and Ann, as a blameless Sanctuary, and the Mother that bore Christ, as a holy Tree bringing forth fruit to God. Let us all joyously keep feast. Glory… Three in Persons, One in nature, in reverence we glorify the true God whose praises the hosts of angels and archangels sing as Master of the Creation; and in faith we all worship Him for ever. Now… O pure and undefiled Virgin, pray without ceasing to thy Son and God, whom you have conceived in the flesh, that He may deliver all thy servants from the manifold snares of the devil and from every temptation that assails us. Katavasia: Rod of the root of Jesse, and flower that blossomed from his stem, O Christ, You have sprung from the Virgin. From the Mountain overshadowed by the forest You have come, made flesh from her that knew not wedlock, O God who are not formed from matter. Glory to Your power, O Lord.’ Ode 5 Irmos The whole world was amazed at your venerable entry. For you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock, yourself a Temple most pure, have gone within the temple of God, bestowing peace upon all who sing your praises. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Glorious sanctuary and holy offering, today the most pure Virgin is dedicated in the temple of God; and in ways which He alone understands, she is kept as a dwelling-place for our God, the King of all. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Seeing the beauty of thy soul, O undefiled Virgin, Zacharias cried out with faith: ‘You are our deliverance, you are the joy of all. You are our restoration, through whom the Incomprehensible appears comprehensible to me.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. O Virgin all-undefiled, past understanding are your wonders! Strange is the manner of your birth: strange is the manner of your growing. Strange and most marvellous are all things concerning you, O Bride of God, and they are beyond the telling of mortal man. Most holy Theotokos, save us. O candlestick with many lights, O Bride of God, you have shone forth today in the house of the Lord, and you give us light through the holy gifts of grace from your wonders, O pure and far-famed Theotokos. Irmos O Christ our Master and God who loves man, cause the radiant and everlasting light to shine upon us, who ponder early in the morning upon the judgements of Your commandments. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let us, the Orthodox, all hasten together with our lamps and glorify the Mother of God, for today she is offered to the Lord as an acceptable sacrifice. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let the forefathers rejoice exceedingly today, O Lady, and let her that bore you make glad with your father: for their fruit is led unto the Lord. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let us all, keeping feast in faith, sing the praises of the undefiled Maiden, most glorious and of many names, for she conceived in the flesh the divine Victim and sacrificial Offering. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The contract of your betrothal, the divine tokens of your Motherhood past understanding, O pure Virgin, are written today by the Holy Spirit in the house of God. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let the forecourt of the glory of our God be opened and let it receive, as a victim of sacrifice three years old and without blemish, the Mother of God who was never to know wedlock. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let us sing the praises of that greatly venerated and overshadowed mountain, the ever-Virgin who became the Mother of God. For she has made light shine to the ends of the earth. Glory… Let us glorify and worship the one Godhead in three Persons, undivided by nature and equal in glory, that was before the beginning and ever shall be. Now… We have your intercession, O Mother of God, as a fair haven and an unassailable rampart in times of trouble, and we are ever delivered from danger and affliction. Katavasia: As You are God of peace and Father of mercies, You have sent unto us Your Angel of great counsel, granting us peace. So are we guided towards the light of the knowledge of God, and watching by night we glorify You, O Lover of mankind. Ode 6 Irmos As we celebrate this sacred and solemn feast of the Mother of God, let us come, clapping our hands, O people of the Lord, and give glory to God who was born of her. Most holy Theotokos, save us. He who supports all things with His word, in His mercy has hearkened unto the prayer of righteous Joachim and Ann: He has loosed them from the disease of barrenness and given them her that is the cause of our joy. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The Lord, wishing to make known to the Gentiles His salvation, has now chosen from among men her that knew not wedlock, to be a sign of reconciliation and renewal. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Being yourself, O Undefiled, a house of grace, in which are laid the treasures of the ineffable dispensation of God, you partake of boundless joy in the temple. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Having received you as a royal diadem, O Bride of God, the temple shone with beauty and gave place to better things, seeing in you the fulfilment of the prophecies. Irmos With the prophet Jonah I shout: O You who are good, deliver my life from corruption and save me, O Saviour of the world, as I cry: Glory to You. Most holy Theotokos, save us. O faithful, let us feast in spirit the Mother of God, singing her praises with piety. For she is indeed more holy than the heavenly powers. Most holy Theotokos, save us. O faithful, let us praise in spiritual songs the Mother of the Light, for today has she been manifested to us as she enters the temple of God. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The ewe-lamb without blemish, the pure dove, is brought as an offering to dwell in the house of God: the undefiled Virgin who was foreordained to become the Mother of God. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The Temple of God, the heavenly Tabernacle, accomplished her entry into the temple of the Law, and from her the Light has shone on us in darkness. Most holy Theotokos, save us. A child in the flesh but perfect in soul, the holy Ark enters into the house of God, there to feed upon divine grace. Most holy Theotokos, save us. By your intercessions set us free from every temptation and danger of soul, for we run to you, O far-famed Mother of Christ our God. Glory… Father, Son, and Spirit of righteousness, Unity in three persons and undivided Trinity, have mercy upon those who worship Your divine power. Now… He whom nothing can contain was contained in your womb, O undefiled Mother of God, and from you He has come forth double in nature, God and Man. Katavasia: The sea monster spat forth Jonah as it had received him, like a babe from the womb: while the Word, having dwelled in the Virgin and taken flesh, came forth from her yet kept her uncorrupt. For being Himself not subject to decay, He preserved His Mother free from harm. Small Ekteny Kontakion, Tone 4 The Saviour’s pure temple,* the precious bridal chamber and Virgin,* the sacred treasury of the glory of God,* is brought today into the house of the Lord;* and with her she brings the grace* of the divine Spirit.* God’s angels sing in praise of her:* She is indeed the heavenly dwelling place. Ikos Seeing the grace of the secret mysteries of God made manifest and clearly fulfilled in the Virgin, I rejoice; and I know not how to understand the strange and secret manner whereby the Undefiled has been revealed as alone chosen above all creation, visible and spiritual. Therefore, wishing to praise her, I am struck dumb with amazement in both mind and speech. Yet still I dare to proclaim and magnify her: She is indeed the heavenly Tabernacle. Ode 7 Irmos The Holy Children bravely trampled upon the threatening fire, preferring not to worship created things rather than the Creator, and they sang in joy: ‘Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our fathers.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. Lo, a glad springtime has shone now to the ends of the earth, making our soul and understanding and mind bright through grace: for today is the feast of the Theotokos. Let us rejoice mystically. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Today let all things, heaven and earth, the ranks of angels and the multitude of mortal men, attend the Queen and Mother, and let them cry aloud: ‘Joy and deliverance is led into the temple.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. The written Law has passed away and vanished as a shadow, and the rays of grace have shone forth at your entry into the temple of God, O undefiled Virgin Mother, who are for ever blessed. Most holy Theotokos, save us. O undefiled Lady, heaven and earth and the things beneath the earth have been brought into subjection to your Son as Maker and God, and all mortal tongues confess that the Lord has appeared, the Saviour of our souls.’ Irmos The furnace was sprinkled with dew, O Saviour, and the Children danced for joy as they sang: ‘O God of our fathers, blessed are You.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let us exult today in the joy of the feast; let us honour, as is meet, Joachim and Ann, and let us sing the praises of the undefiled Virgin. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Let David prophesy, who said in the spirit: ‘Virgins shall be brought after you; they shall be brought into the temple to the Queen and Mother.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. The ranks of angels rejoiced exceedingly and spirits of the righteous were glad, when the Mother of God was led into the sanctuary. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Mary without spot rejoiced in body and spirit, dwelling as a sacred vessel in the temple of the Lord. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Receiving heavenly food, she who was to become the Mother of Christ the Saviour according to the flesh, increased in wisdom and grace. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Your wise parents led you to the innermost part of the temple, O undefiled Virgin, there to be brought up in strange fashion and prepared as dwelling-place for Christ our God. Glory… Let us glorify the undivided Trinity, let us sing the praises of the one Godhead, the Father, the Word, and the Most Holy Spirit. Now… Pray the Lord whom you have borne, for He is compassionate by nature, to save the souls of those that sing your praises, O Mother of God. Katavasia: Scorning the impious decree, the Children brought up together in godliness feared not the threat of fire, but, standing in the midst of the flames, they sang: ‘O God of our fathers, blessed are You.’ Ode 8 Irmos Hearken, O pure Virgin Maid: let Gabriel tell you the counsel of the Most High that is ancient and true. Make ready to receive God: for through you the Incomprehensible comes to dwell with mortal men. Therefore I cry rejoicing: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord. Most holy Theotokos, save us. As Ann led the undefiled Temple into the house of God, she cried aloud and said with faith to the priest: ‘Take the child given to me by God and lead her into the temple of thy Creator, and sing unto Him with joy: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. When he saw Ann, Zacharias said to her in spirit: ‘You lead here the true Mother of life, whom the prophets of God heralded from afar as the Theotokos: and how shall the temple contain her? Therefore in wonder I cry: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. ‘I stand here as the suppliant of God,’ answered Ann to him, ‘calling upon Him with faith and prayer to receive the fruit of my travail. For I promised that after childbirth I would present my child to Him who gave her to me. Therefore, leaping for joy, I cry: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. ‘Truly this act is in accordance with the Law’, said the priest to her. ‘I perceive that this is a thing wholly strange: for I see led into the house of God her who wondrously surpasses the sanctuary in grace. Therefore I cry in joy: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. ‘Hearing your words,’ said Ann to him, ‘I am filled with new strength. For you understand these things by the Spirit of God, and hast clearly announced what shall come to pass in the Virgin. Take, then, the Undefiled into the temple of your Creator, and sing unto Him in joy: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’ Most holy Theotokos, save us. ‘A Lamp that gives light has been kindled for us,’ cried the priest, ‘and has made mighty joy shine in the temple. Let the souls of the prophets make glad with me, as they see strange wonders accomplished in the house of God, and let them now cry out: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.’ Irmos Him before whom the angels and all the hosts of heaven are afraid, their Creator and Lord, O priests praise, O children glorify, O people bless and exalt above all for ever. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Bright with joy today, Joachim makes glad; and Ann, without reproach, offers unto the Lord God the sacrifice given to her according to the promise, her holy daughter. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The saints David and Jesse exult today and Judah is filled with pride. For from their root a branch has sprung, the pure Virgin from whom pre-eternal God is to be born. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Today Mary, the undefiled and living Tabernacle, is offered up in the house of God, and Zacharias receives her in his hands as a holy treasure of the Lord. Most holy Theotokos, save us. As a Gate of salvation and a spiritual Mountain, as a living Ladder, let us, the faithful, honour the true Virgin and Mother of God, who is blessed by the hands of the priests. Most holy Theotokos, save us. Prophets, apostles and martyrs of Christ, ranks of angels and all the dwellers upon earth, let us honour with hymns the pure Virgin, for she is the blessed Mother of the Most High. Most holy Theotokos, save us. They that divinely bore you, O Undefiled and Pure, offered you in the temple as a spotless sacrifice; and in strange fashion you lodge in the sanctuary of God, there to be prepared as a dwelling-place for the Word. We bless the Lord, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Let ‘Holy, Holy, Holy’ be sung to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, indivisible Unity, one Godhead, that holds all creation in the hollow of the hand unto all ages. Now… He who is without beginning, begins: from a Virgin Maid the Word is born in the flesh according to His good pleasure, God and mortal man, and in His extreme compassion He refashions us who had fallen. We praise, bless, and worship the Lord; we extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The furnace moist with dew was the image and figure of a wonder past nature. For it burned not the Children whom it had received, even as the fire of the Godhead consumed not the Virgin’s womb into which it had descended. Therefore in praise let us sing: Let the whole creation bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Ode 9 Beholding the entry of the All-Pure, the angels were struck with amazement, seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies. Irmos Let no profane hand touch the living Ark of God, but let the lips of the faithful, singing without ceasing the words of the Angel to the Theotokos, cry aloud in great joy: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all. Beholding the entry of the All-Pure, the angels were struck with amazement, seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies. O pure Theotokos, you have a clean and shining beauty of soul, and are filled from heaven with the grace of God. You ever enlighten with eternal light those who cry aloud in gladness: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all. Beholding the entry of the All-Pure, the angels were struck with amazement, seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies. Your wonders, O pure Theotokos, surpass the power of words. For in you I see something beyond speech: a body that was never subject to the taint of sin. Therefore in thanksgiving I cry to you: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all. Angels and men, let us honour the entry of the Virgin, for in glory she has gone into the Holy of Holies. The Law prefigured you most wonderfully as tabernacle, jar of manna, strange ark, veil of the temple, rod of Aaron, temple never to be destroyed, and gate of God; and so it teaches us to cry to you: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all. Beholding the entry of the All-Pure, the angels were struck with amazement, seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies. David sang in honour of you, calling you the daughter of the King, for he saw you in the beauty of the virtues, in raiment of many-coloured needlework, at the right hand of God; therefore in prophecy he cried aloud: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all. O angels, dance with the saints: O virgins, make glad with them for the Child of God has entered into the Holy of Holies. Solomon, foreseeing how you were to receive God, spoke of you in dark sayings as the gate of the King and the living fountain sealed, from which came forth untroubled waters to us who cry aloud with faith: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all. Angels and men, let us magnify the Virgin in hymns, for she has entered into the Holy of Holies, as was divinely fit. Grant to my soul, O Theotokos, the calm peace that comes from your gifts of grace. You are a fountain of life to those that honour you as is due; you surround, protect, and preserve us that we may cry aloud to you: O pure Virgin, you are truly high above all. O my soul, magnify her who was led into the temple of the Lord and blessed by the hands of the priests. Irmos Let us all magnify the radiant cloud, in which the Master of all descended, as dew from heaven upon the fleece, and for our sake took flesh and was made man, He who is without beginning: for she is the pure Mother of our God. O my soul, magnify her who was led into the temple of the Lord and blessed by the hands of the priests. From the righteous Joachim and Ann a fruit came forth according to the promise, Mary the Child of God. A young girl after the flesh, as acceptable incense she is offered in the holy temple, that she who is herself holy may dwell in the Holy Place. O my soul, magnify her who was led into the temple of the Lord and blessed by the hands of the priests. Let us praise in hymns the child by nature who was shown forth as Mother beyond nature. For today she is offered to the Lord in the temple of the Law as a sweet-smelling savour, the spiritual fruit of her righteous parents. O my soul, magnify her who was led into the temple of the Lord and blessed by the hands of the priests. O faithful, offering to the Theotokos the salutation of the angel, let us raise our cry: Hail! O Bride most beautiful. Hail! bright cloud; from you the Lord has shone forth upon us as we sat in the darkness of ignorance. Hail! you Hope of all. O my soul, magnify her who was led into the temple of the Lord and blessed by the hands of the priests. All the creation joins the angel Gabriel, crying out to the Theotokos in fitting song: Hail! undefiled Mother of God. Through you we have been delivered from the ancient curse and have become partakers of incorruption. O my soul, magnify her who was led into the temple of the Lord and blessed by the hands of the priests. O Holy of Holies and pure Mother of God, Mary, from the snares of the enemy and from every heresy and affliction, at your intercessions set us free who venerate with faith the ikon of your holy form. O my soul, magnify her who was led into the temple of the Lord and blessed by the hands of the priests. Far greater than the cherubim, high above the seraphim, and more spacious than the heavens, are you shown forth, O Virgin, for you have contained in your womb our God whom nothing can contain, and have ineffably borne Him: entreat Him earnestly on our behalf. O my soul, magnify the power of the indivisible Godhead in three Persons. Let us glorify the one Nature in three Persons, the one indivisible glory, the undivided Trinity in one Godhead that is praised without ceasing in heaven and on earth; in piety let us worship the Father, with the Son and the Spirit. O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honour and more glorious than the hosts above. O Virgin Mother of God, intercede for those who with faith seek refuge beneath your compassion, and who piously worship thy Son as God and Lord of the world, that they be delivered from corruption and danger and manifold temptations. Beholding the entry of the All-Pure, the angels were struck with amazement, seeing how the Virgin entered into the Holy of Holies. Katavasia: A strange and most wonderful mystery do I see: the cave is heaven; the Virgin the throne of the cherubim; the manger a room, in which Christ, the God whom nothing can contain, is laid. Him do we praise and magnify. Hymn Of Light, Tone 3 Let us praise in faith Mary the Child of God,* whom long ago the assembly of prophets foretold,* speaking of her as jar of manna and Aaron’s rod,* tablet of the Law and uncut mountain.* For she is led today into the Holy of Holies, there to be brought up to the Lord. Glory... Let us praise in faith Mary the Child of God,* whom long ago the assembly of prophets foretold,* speaking of her as jar of manna and Aaron’s rod,* tablet of the Law and uncut mountain.* For she is led today into the Holy of Holies, there to be brought up to the Lord. Now… Let us praise in faith Mary the Child of God,* whom long ago the assembly of prophets foretold,* speaking of her as jar of manna and Aaron’s rod,* tablet of the Law and uncut mountain.* For she is led today into the Holy of Holies, there to be brought up to the Lord. At The Praises, Tone 1 The virgins bearing lamps, who with their light accompany the ever-Virgin,* verily prophesy the future in Spirit.* For the Temple of God, the Theotokos, with virginal glory enters* as a little child into the temple. The Theotokos, glorious fruit of a sacred promise,* is truly revealed unto the world as higher than all creation.* Piously led into the house of God,* she fulfils the vow of her parents* and she is preserved by the Holy Spirit. O Virgin, fed in faith by heavenly bread in the temple of the Lord,* you have brought forth unto the world the Bread of life that is the Word;* and as His chosen Temple without spot, you were betrothed mystically through the Spirit,* to be the Bride of God the Father. Let the gate of the temple wherein God dwells be opened:* for Joachim brings within today in glory the Temple and Throne of the King of all,* and he consecrates as an offering to God* her whom the Lord has chosen to be His Mother. Tone 2, Glory... Now… Today the Virgin without blemish is led to the temple,* to become the habitation of God the King of all, who sustains our life.* Today as a three-year-old victim of sacrifice the most pure Sanctuary is led into the Holy of Holies.* To her let us cry out with the angel:* Hail! you who alone are blessed among women. Troparion, Tone 4 Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Today is the prelude of the good pleasure of God,* and the proclamation of salvation for the human race.* In the Temple of God* the Virgin is clearly revealed,* and beforehand announces Christ to all.* To her, then, let us cry aloud with a mighty voice:* Rejoice, fulfilment of the Creator’s plan. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: The Saviour’s pure temple,* the precious bridal chamber and Virgin,* the sacred treasury of the glory of God,* is brought today into the house of the Lord;* and with her she brings the grace of the divine Spirit.* God’s angels sing in praise of her:* She is indeed the heavenly dwelling-place. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46-48) Epistle Hebrews 9:1-7 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Hear, O daughter, and see, and incline your ear. verse: The rich among the people shall entreat your countenance. (Psalm 44:11,13) Gospel Luke 10:38-42, 11:27-28 Hymn to the Mother of God Seeing the entrance of the pure one, angels marvel in wonder how the Virgin could enter the holy of holies And the Irmos, Tone 4: Let no hand of the profane touch God’s living ark, but instead let the lips of those who are believers sing out ceaselessly in the words of the angel, crying out with great joy to the Mother of God: O pure Virgin, you are truly higher than all. Communion Hymn I will take the chalice of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 115:13):

Nov 19, 2024 - The Holy Prophet Obadiah; The Holy Martyr Barlaam.

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 19, 2024 Nativity Fast. VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. As a splendid receptacle of the Spirit and one illumined by Him,* O Obadiah of vision most divine,* you were enriched by the image of prophecy,* the foreknowledge of things to come, and the knowledge of the truth.* Pray now that He grant our souls peace and great mercy. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Of the primary traits and essential proofs by which God is depicted* the glorious and honourable prophets partake as a gift secondarily* through communion and grace when the Lord illumines His favoured ones* with His effulgence. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Full of never-waning light,* beholding glory which transcends understanding and reason,* and standing before the Master of all,* you were a glorious prophet and a divine herald of God.* Entreat Him that He grant our souls peace and great mercy. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You were firmer than a pillar, stronger than brass, and mightier than iron;* for, when heated by fire, each of them disintegrates and is straightway destroyed, overcome by force thereof;* but your unwavering right hand, outstretched over the burning coals, O most wise one,* triumphed most gloriously. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. As though you were a priest standing before God and coming before Him,* not with another's blood, but with your own most of all, O blessed one,* you offered an incense of sweet savour with your martyr’s hand,* not to demonic illusions, but to Christ, the Saviour and Master,* who reigns forever. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. A priest who offers and a lamb which is offered:* we joyously call you both, O most lauded one;* for as both were you immolated in the fire of torment* as an unblemished sacrifice to God.* Entreat Him that He save them that ever honour your most glorious memory. Tone 4, Glory… Now… With the showers of the all-holy Spirit* bedew my thought, O all-pure one,* who gave birth to Christ, the gentle Rain from heaven,* who, by His compassions, washes away the incalculably boundless iniquities of men;* dry up the wellspring of my passions, and ever vouchsafe to me a torrent* of the sweetness of life by your supplications. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 1 Great is the abyss of my many transgressions, О Saviour,* and I am grievously engulfed because of my offenses.* Grant me Your hand, as You did to Peter, О God.* Save me and have mercy upon me! I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. In that I have been condemned for wicked thoughts and deeds, О Saviour,* grant me the thought of returning to You, О God,* that I may cry aloud: Save me, О good Benefactor,* and have mercy upon me! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. The confession you made before the tribunal reviled the power of the demons,* and freed mankind from delusion, О saints.* Wherefore, when you were beheaded you cried aloud:* О Lord, may the sacrifice of our lives be well-pleasing to You,* for having loved You, we have spurned this transitory life,* О Lover of mankind. Glory… Now… O all-hymned Virgin,* in whom Moses beheld a mystery with prophetic eyes* the bush that burned yet remained unconsumed;* for the fire of the Godhead did not burn your womb, O pure one.* Wherefore, we beseech you, as the Mother of our God:* beg peace and great mercy for the world Troparia Tone 2 Celebrating the memory of your prophet Obadiah, O Lord,* we beg You to save our souls through his intercession. Tone 4, Glory… O Lord our God, your holy martyr Barlaam* has deserved the crown of immortality* on account of his good fight.* Armed with your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through his supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Now… Let us poor sinners hasten with fervour to the Mother of God;* let us humbly kneel before her and say from the depth of our hearts:* O Lady, be kind to us and help us.* Hasten, for we are perishing under a multitude of sins.* Do not turn away your servants empty-handed,* for you are their only hope and protection. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: Celebrating the memory of your prophet Obadiah, O Lord,* we beg You to save our souls through his intercession. Troparion, Tone 4: O Lord our God, your holy martyr Barlaam* has deserved the crown of immortality* on account of his good fight.* Armed with your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through his supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 1: Receiving clarity of mind from divine illumination,* the great Obadiah sees the future through the Holy Spirit.* We piously and wisely keep his memory today,* and venerate him to find light for our hearts. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: You became a renowned person because of your might,* and you offered yourself like incense as a sacrifice in the fire to Christ.* You received a crown of honour, O martyr Barlaam;* now pray for us at all times. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle 1 Timothy 5:11-21 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 17:26-37 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Nov 18, 2024 - Holy Martyrs Plato (286-305) and Roman (305).

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 18, 2024 VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted tonight. At Psalm 140 Tone 8 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Full of valiant wisdom,* with a most courageous resolve endured the severing of your limbs and the dismemberment of your body,* unbearable fire, starvation and death,* in expectation of the glory which ages not with time,* which lies eternally before you,* and foreseeing everlasting blessedness. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Having transcended every sense and directed your mind toward life on high,* with divinely wise thought and great wisdom of soul* you spurned the baseness and lowliness of visible things.* Wherefore, lacerated and burned with fire for Christ, O martyr,* you endured valiantly. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. By grace you set at nought every assault of the enemy* and the onslaughts of the persecutors;* and you were crowned with the wreath of victory,* O you who are most rich,* being vouchsafed incorruptible gladness and ineffable and divine radiance.* And as you are now in the midst thereof,* ask remission of sins for those who praise you well. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Consumed by fasting, hardened by ascetic endeavour,* and tormented with manifold tortures,* you became a two-edged sword, cutting down hordes of demons, O Roman,* adornment of athletes, divine boast, precious ornament of the Church* of those who died shedding their own blood, O most lauded one. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Lacerated and rent asunder, imprisoned in a dungeon,* your tongue cut out, O glorious athlete,* your jaw broken, receiving a blessed end through violent suffocation,* you were shown to be unshakable and steadfast* through the activity of the divine Spirit, O Roman;* wherefore, we praise you with faith. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. A child speaks eloquently and amazes the mindless:* he is adorned with honourable opposition and is illumined by his death;* he is enriched by the goodly fame of the holy athletes, whose zeal he acquired.* O right wise Roman, pray with them, that remission of debts be sent down upon us all. Tone 6, Glory… Awesome and all-glorious are the victories of Your martyr, O Lord!* For, emulating the boldness of the fishermen, by his words and deeds he rent asunder* the mythology and historical blasphemy of Plato with the nets of theology;* and when his skin was flayed and his head cut off,* he choked the enemy with the outpouring of his blood.* O most blessed wonderworker Plato, adornment of the martyrs,* who preached the great name of Christ with boldness,* ask that great mercy be given our souls. Tone 6, Now… О Theotokos, who at the sound of the archangel’s voice* conceived in your womb the Word,* who with the Father and the Spirit is equally beginningless,* you have been revealed to be more exalted than the cherubim, seraphim, and thrones. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 1 Great is the abyss of my many transgressions, О Saviour,* and I sink grievously because of my offenses.* Grant me Your hand, as You did to Peter, О God.* Save me and have mercy upon me! I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. In that I have been condemned for wicked thoughts and deeds, О Saviour,* grant me the thought of returning to You, О God,* that I may cry aloud: Save me, О good Benefactor,* and have mercy upon me! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Through the prayers of all the saints and the Theotokos,* О Lord, grant us Your peace,* and have mercy upon us,* in that You alone are compassionate. Glory… Now… Joy of the ranks of heaven,* and mighty intercession for mankind on earth, O most pure Virgin:* save us who have recourse to you,* for in you, after God,* have we placed our hope, O Theotokos. Troparia Tone 4 O Lord our God, your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Glory… Now… To the One who was reared in the Temple,* close to the Holy of Holies,* and who was full of faith, wisdom, and perfect virginity,* Gabriel, the captain and leader,* offered esteem and greetings from heaven when he said:* Rejoice, O blessed One! Rejoice, O glorified One!* The Lord is with you. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: O Lord our God, your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our 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 4: Your holy memory delights the universe* and brings us together in your holy temple.* Since we are now gathered together in our joy,* praise your great deeds with hymns, O Plato and Roman,* and we cry out to you with faith:* O holy ones, save your city from its enemies. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle 1 Timothy 5:1-10 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 17:20-25 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Nov 17, 2024 - Twenty-sixth Sunday after Pentecost. Octoechos Tone 1. Our Holy Father Gregory the Wonderworker, Bishop of Neocaesarea (270-75). Passing into Eternal Life (1947) of Blessed Josaphat Kotsylovsky, Bishop of Peremyshl and Martyr.

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 17, 2024 Nativity Fast. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name. Accept our evening prayer, O holy Lord,* and grant us forgiveness of sins,* for You alone manifested the resurrection* to the world. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me. O you people, walk around Sion and encompass her.* And there give glory to Him who is risen from the dead.* For He is our God* who delivers us from our sins. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Come you people, praise and worship Christ.* Glorify His resurrection from the dead;* for He is our God who delivered the world* from the deceit of the enemy. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Rejoice, O you heavens;* sound the trumpets, you foundations of the earth;* cry out with joy, O you mountains.* For behold, Emmanuel has nailed our sins to the Cross;* the Giver of Life has put Death to death;* and the Lover of mankind* has raised up Adam. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let us praise the Lord* who for our sake was willingly crucified in the flesh.* He suffered, was buried, and rose from the dead.* Therefore, let us sing to Him:* O Christ, keep Your Church in the orthodox faith* and bring peace to our lives;* for You are gracious and love mankind. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O Christ our God, as we stand unworthily before Your life-bearing grave,* we offer a hymn of praise to Your ineffable tenderness of heart.* For You, O Sinless One,* in Your loving-kindness have accepted the Cross and death* in order to grant* resurrection to the world. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Let us praise the Word* who is without beginning and co-eternal with the Father.* For our sake He was born of the Virgin;* He freely accepted the Cross and death, and rose in glory.* Therefore, let us sing to Him:* Glory to You, O Lord,* the Giver of Life and Saviour of our souls. Tone 8 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, Gregory?* Master, for you subjected the passions to your mind!* Husbandman, for you reaped the fruit of wisdom!* One granted the vision of God and taught with heavenly theology!* A sacred performer of the mysteries* and most wondrous worker of miracles!* Pray that our souls may be saved! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. What shall I now call you, Gregory?* Mighty destroyer of godless impiety,* setting forth the laws of true worship!* Wise teacher and bestower of invincible peace!* Unvanquished conqueror of armies!* One who ever dwells in the mountains,* beholding those living in the cities!* Pray that our souls may be saved! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. What shall I now proclaim you, venerable one?* You followed the apostles as a worker of miracles!* You restrained the river by calling on Christ,* drying up the lake which was the cause of contention between brethren!* You dispersed the ungodly congregation,* increasing and enlightening Christian assemblies!* Pray that our souls may be saved! Tone 6, Glory… You most wisely embarked upon the depths of knowledge,* hierarch of Christ! * You acquired the vision of the Trinity, * foreseeing steadfastly in the spirit Christ our God! * You poured forth on us a flood of miracles, * making solid the watery nature of the sea, * changing the pagan priest's dark delusion to belief! * You persuaded the persecutors truly to believe, * revealing yourself to them as a pillar of virtue! * You were called a prophet through your miracles! * therefore we beseech you,* ever pray for us to the Saviour that our souls may be saved! Tone 1, Now... Let us sing a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary,* glory of the whole world!* She was herself formed by human seed,* yet she became the Mother of the Master, the Gate of heaven,* the theme of the angels’ hymn and beauty of the faithful.* She was seen as being heavenly* and the Tabernacle of the Godhead.* She indeed tore down the wall of enmity between God and man,* and brought peace in its place.* She opened up the kingdom of heaven.* Let us therefore cling fast to her for she is the anchor of faith,* and let us receive as our stronghold the Lord Who was born of her.* Be of good cheer, then, and have confidence, O people of God,* for He will fight our enemies for us,* He is all-powerful! Aposticha Tone 1 O Christ, by Your passion we have been freed from suffering;* and by Your resurrection we have been delivered from corruption.* O Lord, glory to You! The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength. Let all creation rejoice, let the heavens be glad,* let the nations clap their hands with joy.* For Christ our Saviour, in His love for mankind,* has nailed our sins to the Cross;* He has put Death to death,* and by raising our fallen forefather, Adam,* He has given life to all mankind. For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved. O God, You are above all understanding;* You are King and Lord of heaven and earth.* Yet of Your own free will,* You allowed Yourself to be crucified because of Your love for mankind.* When You descended below,* Hades was filled with bitterness as You confronted it;* but the souls of the just received You with great joy.* Adam arose when he saw You, his Creator, down in the depths.* What a wonder this is!* You are the life of all and have tasted death* in order to dispel the darkness of the world with Your light.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory to You! Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days. The myrrh-bearing women were filled with grief* as they hastened with spices to Your tomb;* but they did not find Your most pure body.* Instead, they found an angel* who proclaimed Your unique and glorious resurrection,* and commanded them to announce to Your apostles:* The Lord is risen,* granting great mercy to the world. Glory… Now… O Mother of God, the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled,* since you remained a virgin both before and after giving birth.* For it was God Who was born of you to restore our human nature.* Therefore, do not overlook your servants who supplicate you in your temple.* Since you have held the merciful Lord in your arms,* be compassionate toward your servants,* and beseech Him to save our souls. Troparia Tone 1 Though the stone was sealed by the Judeans* and soldiers guarded Your most pure body,* You arose, O Saviour, on the third day* and gave life to the world.* And so the heavenly powers cried out to You, O Giver of Life:* Glory to Your Resurrection, O Christ!* Glory to Your Kingdom!* Glory to Your saving plan!* O only Lover of mankind. Tone 4, Glory… The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop, Gregory.* Intercede with Christ, our God,* for the salvation of our souls. Now… O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created,* and saved our souls from death. SUNDAY MATINS Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 1 Troparia, Tone 1 Though the stone was sealed by the Judeans* and soldiers guarded Your most pure body,* You arose, O Saviour, on the third day* and gave life to the world.* And so the heavenly powers cried out to You, O Giver of Life:* Glory to Your Resurrection, O Christ!* Glory to Your Kingdom!* Glory to Your saving plan!* O only Lover of mankind. (2) Tone 4, Glory… The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop, Gregory.* Intercede with Christ, our God,* for the salvation of our souls. Now… O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created,* and saved our souls from death. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 1 While watching Your grave, the soldiers became as dead men* from the lightning flash of the Angel* who appeared and proclaimed to the women the Resurrection.* We glorify You, the destroyer of corruption;* we fall down before You, who has risen from the grave* and who alone are our God. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. You were willingly nailed to the Cross, O Compassionate one,* and laid in a tomb as a mortal, O Giver of life.* By Your death, O Powerful one,* You have smashed its might;* for gatekeepers of Hades trembled before You;* You have raised with You the dead from every age,* for You alone love mankind. Glory… Now… All we who with love flee for refuge to your goodness* know you to be the Mother of God* and after childbirth still truly Virgin;* for we sinners have you as our protection;* we have you as our salvation in misfortunes,* as the only All-immaculate one. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 1 The women came to Your tomb at dawn* and seeing a vision of an Angel they trembled;* the tomb became resplendent with life;* and amazed by the miracle, they returned to the disciples and proclaimed the Resurrection:* for Christ has despoiled Hades,* as alone almighty and all powerful,* raising up those in corruption,* dispelling the fear of condemnation* by the power of the Cross. I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. O Life of all, You were nailed to the Cross;* O immortal Lord, You were numbered among the dead,* arising on the third day, O Saviour,* raising Adam from corruption;* wherefore the heavenly Powers cried out to You:* O Giver of life, Glory to Your sufferings, O Christ;* glory to Your Resurrection;* glory to Your condescension,* O only Lover of mankind’. Glory… Now… O Mary, holy tabernacle of the Master,* raise us up who have fallen into the pit of wicked despair, of transgressions and afflictions;* for you are the salvation,* the help and the mighty protection of sinners,* and you save your servants. Polyeleos Evlogitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 1 The Thief’s repentance plundered Paradise,* but the Myrrh-bearers’ lamentations announced the joy that You have risen, O Christ God,* granting the world great mercy. Hymn of Ascent, Tone 1 Antiphon 1 When I am afflicted,* I cry to You, O Lord,* hearken to my pains. For those who dwell in the desert* the longing for God never ceases,* for they are far from the vanity of this world. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit, as to the Father and the Son,* are due honour and glory;* thus let us sing to the Trinity,* a single power. Antiphon 2 Having lifted me up to the summit of Your laws,* make me shine with virtues, O God,* that I may sing Your praises. Take me with Your right hand, O Word,* guard me and keep me,* lest the fire of sin scorch me. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit all creation is made new* and hastens back to its original condition;* for He is equal in strength* to the Father and the Word. Antiphon 3 With those who said to me:* Let us journey to the courts of the Lord,* my Spirit was gladdened and my heart rejoices. In the house of David is great fear;* for when the thrones are set therein,* all the tribes and nations of the earth will be judged. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit must be offered honor, adoration, glory, and power,* as befits also the Father and the Son;* for the Trinity is a Unity,* one in essence, but not in Hypostases. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 I myself will arise, says the Lord.* I will grant them the salvation for which they thirst. verse: The words of the Lord are words without alloy. Let everything that lives, Tone 1 Gospel Luke 24:1-12 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 1 Ode 1 Irmos: Your warrior hand is glorious in strength, O deathless one!* All-powerful, in manner fit for God,* it broke the enemy in pieces,* and devised for Israel a strange, new way through the deep. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He, who with pure hands divinely working in the beginning formed me from the earth, spread out those hands upon the cross, and from the earth recalled my corruptible body which he had received from the Virgin. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He, who divinely breathing into me implanted within me a soul, suffered dissolution for me, and delivered his soul to death; loosing the age-old bonds and raising me with himself, he made me glorious in incorruption. Glory… Now… Hail, fount of grace! Hail, ladder and gate of heaven! Hail, bearer of the light, vessel of gold, mountain unhewn and bearer of Christ, the giver of life to the world! Katavasia: I shall open my mouth, and the Spirit will inspire it,* and I shall utter the words of my song to the Queen and Mother:* I shall be seen radiantly keeping feast* and joyfully praising her wonders. Ode 3 Irmos: You alone, knowing the frailty of mortal man, tenderly took its form;* gird me with power from on high, crying to you:* Holy is the living temple of your pure glory,* O Lover of man! Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Good One, you are my God, in pity for the fallen you determined to come down to me; you have raised me up by your crucifixion, crying to you: Holy is the Lord of glory, in goodness beyond compare! Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Christ divinely existing life as God compassionate you clothed yourself with me, corrupted one; coming down to the dust of death, O Lord, you broke the chains of man’s mortality and on the third day, rising, clothed the dead with incorruption. Glory… Now… When by the all-holy Spirit, O Virgin, you conceived God in your womb, you remained unconsumed by the fire; for to Moses the lawgiver, the bush burning yet unconsumed clearly foretold you who received the fire unendurable. Katavasia: O Mother of God, living and plentiful fount,* give strength to those united in spiritual fellowship,* who sing hymns of praise to you:* and in your divine glory vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory. Ode 4 Irmos: Habbakuk with the foreseeing eyes apprehended you,* the mountain by divine grace overshadowed,* and proclaimed the Holy One of Israel to come forth from you* for our salvation and remaking. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Who is this Saviour that comes from Edom, crowned with thorns, with garments reddened, hanging on a tree? He is the Holy One of Israel for our salvation and remaking. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. See, disobedient people, and be ashamed! He, whom you, as an evildoer, madly begged Pilate to hang upon the cross, he, as belongs to God, has dissolved the power of death and risen from the tomb. Glory… Now… O Virgin, we know you as a tree of life, for there sprang from you not the death-bearing fruit of food for mortal men but fruition of life eternal for the salvation of us who sing to you. Katavasia: He who sits in glory upon the throne of the Godhead,* Jesus the true God, is come in a swift cloud* and with His sinless hands he has saved those who cry:* Glory to Your power, O Christ. Ode 5 Irmos: O Christ, you have illumined the ends of the earth* by the brightness of your coming and made them radiant with joy by your cross;* enlighten with the light of the knowledge of you* the hearts of those who with right belief sing your praise. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The Jews put to death on the tree of the cross the great shepherd of the sheep and the Lord; but he rescued the dead from the power of death, terrified sheep in Hell. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. When you announced the glad tidings of peace by your cross and proclaimed deliverance to the captives, my Saviour, then, O Christ, you put to shame him who held them in thrall and by your divine rising showed him naked and destitute. Glory… Now… All-praised, do not despise the prayers of those who faithfully entreat you but receive and present them, O pure one, to your Son, our God and only benefactor; for in you we have gained a protector. Katavasia: The whole world was amazed* at your divine glory:* for you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock,* have held in your womb the God of all* and have given birth to an eternal Son,* who rewards with salvation all who sing your praises. Ode 6 Irmos: The deepest abyss has surrounded us, there is none to deliver,* we are counted as sheep for the slaughter;* save your people, our God,* for you are the strength and restoring of the weak. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. By the fault of the first-fashioned man, O Lord, we were grievously wounded; by your stripes, O Christ, by which for our sakes you were wounded, we are healed; for you are the strength and restoring of the weak. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You have brought us up from Hell, O Lord, you have crushed the all-devouring whale by your might and laid low his strength, O All-powerful; for you are life and light and resurrection. Glory… Now… O pure Virgin, our forefathers rejoice in you, and regain through you that Eden which they destroyed by transgressions; for you are chaste before your bearing and after the birth. Katavasia: As we celebrate* this sacred and solemn feast of the Mother of God,* let us come, clapping our hands, O people of the Lord,* and give glory to God who was born of her. Kontakion, Tone 1 You arose in glory from the tomb* and with Yourself You raised the world.* All humanity acclaims You as God,* and death has vanished.* Adam exults, O Master,* and Eve, redeemed now from bondage, cries out for joy:* “You are the One, O Christ, Who offer resurrection to all.” Ikos The third day arising, gates of Hell shattering, the age-long dead raising, as God of all power to him we sing praises: to the myrrh-bearing women in loving good-pleasure appearing, to those who were foremost, saying: Rejoice, joy to the apostles proclaiming, the only giver of life. To disciples in faith then the women proclaim the tokens of victory, and Hell groans and death laments, the whole world exults, all things rejoice together, for you, O Christ, have bestowed upon all resurrection. Ode 7 Irmos: We, the faithful, discern you, Mother of God, as furnace of intellect:* for as he, the most highly exalted, kept safe the three children* so in your womb he re-fashioned man wholly,* God of our fathers, praised and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The earth shuddered with fear, the sun fled and with it the light darkened, the sacred veil of the temple was torn in two and the rocks were split; for the righteous one was fixed to the cross, God of our fathers, praised and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Of your own will for us you became as one with no help and wounded among the dead, O most highly exalted, and freed us all; and with your strong hand you raised us up with yourself, God of our fathers, praised and glorious above all. Glory… Now… Hail, spring of ever-living water! Hail, paradise of delight! Hail, fortress of the faithful! Hail, unwedded one! Hail, joy of all the world from whom has sprung for us the God of our fathers, praised and glorious above all! Katavasia: The holy children bravely trampled upon the threatening fire,* refusing to worship created things in place of the Creator,* and they sang in joy:* Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our Fathers. Ode 8 Irmos: In the fiery oven as in a smelting furnace* the Israelite children shone bright with the beauty of godliness purer than gold,* and they said: Bless the Lord, all his works,* praise and highly exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Word of God, maker and transformer of all by your will, changing the shadow of death into everlasting life by your Passion, we, all your works, unceasingly praise you as Lord, and highly exalt you throughout all the age ·. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Rising on the third day from the grave, O Christ, you demolished the destruction and misery within the gates and strongholds of Hell. All your works unceasingly praise you as Lord, and highly exalt you throughout all the ages. Glory… Now… Let us sing to her who without seed and above nature brought forth Christ the precious pearl from the divine lightning, and let us say: Bless the Lord, all his works, praise and highly exalt him throughout all the ages. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The Offspring of the Theotokos saved the holy children in the furnace.* He who was then prefigured has since been born on earth,* and He gathers all the creation to sing:* O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: The bush ever burning and never consumed* was the type of your pure child-bearing;* quench now for us the raging furnace of temptations, we pray you,* that we may unceasingly magnify you, Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O how the lawless and disobedient people, devising evil, made right the accursed and ungodly man and condemned the righteous, the Lord of glory, to the tree! Worthily, we magnify him! Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Saviour, innocent Lamb, taking away the sins of the world, risen on the third day, we glorify you, together with the Father and your divine Spirit; acknowledging you as God, we magnify you, the Lord of glory. Glory… Now… Save your people, Lord, whom you purchased with your precious blood. Grant strength to the king against his enemies, Lover of man, and bestow peace on your churches through the prayers of the Mother of God. Katavasia: Let every mortal born on earth,* radiant with light, in spirit leap for joy;* and let the host of the angelic powers* celebrate and honour the holy feast of the Mother of God,* and let them cry:* Rejoice! Pure and blessed Ever-Virgin, who gave birth to God. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light Resplendent with virtues* let us behold the men standing in brilliant clothes inside the grave,* giving life to the saddened myrrh-bearing women.* Let us learn of the resurrection of the Lord of heaven* and hasten with Peter to the tomb of life.* Let us stand before His wondrous resurrection* and contemplate the marvels of Christ. Glory… Now… O Lord, when You told the myrrh-bearing women to rejoice,* You ended the sadness of our first parents,* and You brought the joy of the resurrection into the world.* Therefore, O Giver of life* by the prayers of the One who gave You birth,* send the light of Your love to shine in our hearts,* that we may cry to You: O Lover of mankind and our God,* glory to Your resurrection! Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 1 We sing the praise of Your saving Passion, O Christ,* and we glorify Your Resurrection. Having endured the Cross,* and destroyed death* and risen from the dead,* grant peace to our lives, O Lord,* as You alone are All-powerful. Having despoiled Hades* and raised mankind by Thy Resurrection, O Christ, ** grant that with pure hearts we may praise and glorify Thee. As we glorify Your divine condescension,* we praise You, O Christ:* For You were born of a Virgin,* yet You were not separated from the Father;* as man You suffered and willingly endured the Cross;* arising from the grave, as though coming forth from Your bridal chamber,* that You might save the world.* O Lord, glory be to You! When You were nailed to the Tree of the Cross,* then the might of the enemy was slain;* creation shook in fear of You,* and Hades was despoiled by Your might.* You raised the dead from their tombs* and opened Paradise to the Thief.* O Christ our God, glory be to You! Lamenting, the holy women came with haste to Your grave;* but finding the tomb opened and learning from the Angel* the new and marvelous wonder,* they announced to the Apostles,* The Lord has arisen,* granting the world His great mercy. We bow down before the divine stripes of Your passion, O Christ God,* and the royal sacrifice that took place divinely revealed in Sion at the end of the ages;* for You, the Sun of righteousness,* enlightened those who slept in darkness,* leading them to the never-setting radiance,* O Lord, glory be to You! O Tumultuous race of the Jews, give ear.* Where are those who approached Pilate?* Let the soldiers who kept watch say,* where are the seals of the grave?* To where has the one who was buried been moved?* Where has the One who is not for sale been sold?* How has the treasure been burgled?* O Lawless Jews, why do you slander the Rising of the Crucified?* He has arisen, as one free among the dead,* and grants to the world His great mercy. Tone 4, Glory… The women came at early dawn to Your tomb, O Christ,* but they did not find Your venerable body.* As they were perplexed, an angel in shining clothes said to them:* Why do you seek the Living among the dead?* He is risen as He foretold.* Have you forgotten what He said?* Being assured by the words of the angel,* the women preached to the disciples about the things they saw.* But their good news was received with ridicule;* for the disciples were still without understanding.* Peter, however, hastened to Your tomb* and then glorified Your wonders, O Lord. 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 Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Though the stone was sealed by the Judeans,* and soldiers guarded Your most pure body,* You arose, O Saviour, on the third day,* and gave life to the world.* And so the heavenly powers cried out to You, O Giver of Life:* Glory to Your resurrection, O Christ!* Glory to Your kingdom!* Glory to Your saving plan,* O only Lover of mankind. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 1: You arose in glory from the tomb* and with Yourself You raised the world.* All humanity acclaims You as God,* and death has vanished.* Adam exults, O Master,* and Eve, redeemed now from bondage, cries out for joy:* “You are the One, O Christ, Who offer resurrection to all.” Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 1: When Gabriel uttered to you, O Virgin, his ‘Rejoice!’* at that sound the Master of all became flesh in you, the Holy Ark.* As the just David said,* you have become wider than the heavens carrying your Creator.* Glory to Him Who dwelt in you!* Glory to Him Who came forth from you!* Glory to Him Who freed us through birth from you! Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Let Your mercy, O Lord, be upon us, as we have hoped in You. verse: Rejoice in the Lord, O you just; praise befits the righteous. (Psalm 32:22,1) Epistle Ephesians 5:9-19 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: God gives me vindication, and has subdued peoples under me. verse: Making great the salvation of the king, and showing mercy to His anointed, to David, and to His posterity forever. (Psalm 17:48,51) Gospel Luke 12:16-21 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Nov 10, 2024 - Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost. Octoechos Tone 8. The Holy Apostles Erastus, Olympus, Rodion, and those with them.

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 10, 2024 GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading “Blessed is the man...” is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 8 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. 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. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Rejoice, O holy Sion,* the Mother of Churches and the dwelling-place of God;* for you were the first to receive the forgiveness of sins* through the resurrection. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Christ the Word was begotten by God the Father before all ages;* yet in these latter times,* He freely willed to take flesh from the Virgin who did not know man.* By His death on the cross and His resurrection,* He saved mankind from the ancient curse of death. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O Christ, we glorify Your resurrection;* for by rising from the dead* You freed the race of Adam from the sufferings of Hades,* and as God You granted eternal life* and great mercy to the world. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Glory to You, O Christ our Saviour,* the only-begotten Son of God;* for You were nailed to the cross,* and then arose from the dead on the third day. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. We glorify You, O Lord;* for of Your own free will You suffered crucifixion for our salvation.* Almighty Saviour, we worship You.* We implore You not to cast us away from Your face;* but hear our prayer and save us by Your resurrection,* for You truly love mankind. Tone1 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Holy preachers, who travelled the whole world in splendour* like winged eagles,* you led those pursued by the devil* to the incorruptible Faith!* Pray that our souls may be given peace and great mercy! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Let us honour Tertius and Sosipater with holy voices,* with Olympus and Rodion* and together with them Erastus, the initiate of the mysteries,* and the godly Quartus:* They glorify Christ our God,* beseeching Him to grant our souls peace and great mercy! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Blessed ones, you have led to Christ God the gentiles,* delivered by the blood of Him Who was well pleased to be born on earth* and Who willingly endured the Cross and death!* Most wise ones, now entreat Him* that He may grant our souls peace and great mercy! Tone 8, Glory… Now... Out of his love for mankind* the King of heaven appeared on earth and dwelt with men,* for He assumed a human body from the pure Virgin* and was seen in the flesh He received from her.* He is the One and only God* having two natures but not two persons.* Wherefore we profess and declare the truth* that Christ our God is perfect God and perfect Man.* O Mother, who knew not carnal union,* intercede with Him that He may have mercy on our souls. Aposticha 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. Glory… Now… O Virgin, You have never known wedlock,* Yet You conceived God in the flesh* in a manner which words can never describe.* You thus became the Mother of God on high.* O Immaculate Lady, receive the supplication of your servants* and grant us the cleansing of our sins.* Accept now our prayers and beseech God to save all of us. Troparia Tone 8 You came down from on high, O Merciful One,* and accepted three days of burial* to free us from our sufferings.* O Lord, our life and our resurrection,* glory be to You. Tone 3, Glory… Holy apostles, intercede with the merciful God* to grant to our souls forgiveness of sins Now… We sing your praises, O Virgin,* for, as the Mother of God, you always intercede for the salvation of the human race.* It is from you that our God and your Son took flesh.* Then, by suffering the passion on the cross,* and out of love for mankind, He delivered us from corruption. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 8 Troparia, Tone 8 You came down from on high, O Merciful One,* and accepted three days of burial* to free us from our sufferings.* O Lord, our life and our resurrection,* glory be to You. (2) Tone 3, Glory… Holy apostles, intercede with the merciful God* to grant to our souls forgiveness of sins Now… We sing your praises, O Virgin,* for, as the Mother of God, you always intercede for the salvation of the human race.* It is from you that our God and your Son took flesh.* Then, by suffering the passion on the cross,* and out of love for mankind, He delivered us from corruption. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 8 You the Life of all, did rise from the dead,* and an Angel of light cried out to the women saying:* Cease your tears. Bring the good tidings unto the Apostles.* Cry aloud in hymns that Christ the Lord has arisen* who as God was well-pleased to save mankind. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. When You were indeed risen from the tomb* You commanded the holy women to announce the Resurrection to the Apostles, as it is written;* and Peter, having arrived quickly, stood by the grave* and seeing the light in the tomb was frightened,* observing the grave clothes lying therein, without the divine body,* and believing he cried aloud:* Glory be to You O Christ God our Saviour, who has saved us all,* for You are the radiant splendour of the Father. Glory… Now… Let us hymn the heavenly gate and ark,* the all-holy mountain, the cloud of light, the heavenly ladder,* the spiritual Paradise, the redemption of Eve,* the great treasure of the world;* because salvation for the world and forgiveness of ancient offences were wrought in her.* Therefore, we cry to her:* Intercede with your own Son and God to grant forgiveness of offences* to those who devoutly worship your most holy Offspring. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 8 Mortals have sealed Your tomb, O Saviour* and an Angel has rolled away the stone from the door.* Women saw You risen from the dead,* and announced the good tidings to Your Disciples in Sion:* The life of all has risen and the bonds of death are loosed.* O Lord, glory be to You. I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. The women having brought sweet-smelling burial spices* heard an Angel’s voice coming from the tomb:* Cease your tears and bring joy instead of sorrow.* Wherefore cry aloud in hymns that Christ the Lord is risen,* who as God was well-pleased to save the race of mankind. Glory… Now… In you, O Full of grace, does all creation rejoice,* the ranks of Angels and the race of mankind;* O all-hallowed Temple and spiritual Paradise, boast of Virgins.* For from youGod became incarnate* and He who is our God before the ages became a child.* He has made your womb a throne and rendered it wider than the heavens.* In you, O Full of grace, does all creation rejoice;* glory be to you. Polyeleos Evlogitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 8 The myrrh-bearing women standing at the tomb of the Giver of life* seeking the immortal Master among the dead;* and having received the glad tidings of joy from the Angel* announced to the Apostles that Christ the Lord is risen,* granting the world great mercy. Hymn of Ascent, Tone 8 Antiphon 1 From my youth the enemy tempts me, enflaming me with the desire for pleasures;* but placing my trust in You O Lord, I put him to flight. Let those that hate Sion,* become like grass before it is tilled;* for Christ severs their necks with the sharp blade of torments. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit all things have life;* Light from Light, eminent God:* we hymn Him* together with the Father and the Word. Antiphon 2 Let my humble heart be sheltered by the fear of You;* lest it fall away from You by being conceited,* O exceedingly compassionate One. He who has his hope in the Lord* will not be afraid when the Lord judges all things* with fire and torment. Glory… Now… Everyone inspired by the Holy Spirit sees all and foretells,* working the greatest wonders, singing of one God in three Hypostases;* for though the Divinity radiates with triune light,* it rules as one. Antiphon 3 I have cried to You, O Lord, hearken to me,* bend Your ear to my supplications when I cry to You,* and cleanse me before taking me from this life. Each and every one who returns to mother earth* will depart to receive torments or rewards* in reward for their life’s actions. Glory… Now… Contemplation of God by the Holy Spirit is of a thrice-holy unity;* for the Father is beginningless, from Whom the Son was begotten before time,* and the Spirit equal in essence and majesty,* blazes forth equally from the Father. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 The Lord will reign forever, Sion’s God, from age to age. verse: My soul, give praise to the Lord; I will praise the Lord all my days. Let everything that lives, Tone 8 Gospel Mark 16:9-20 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 8 Ode 1 Irmos: When the wonder-working rod of Moses* smote the sea with the sign of the cross and divided it,* Pharaoh the charioteer it overthrew in the deep,* but fugitive Israel, fleeing on foot, it saved,* and he raised a glad shout* of praise to God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. How should we not wonder at the mighty power of Christ’s divinity? Freedom from passions and incorruption to all the faithful flow from his Passion; drop by drop from his holy side a deathless fountain falls; and from the grave comes life unending. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. How beautiful the angel now reveals himself to the women! Bearing the signs of innate and immaterial purity, and in his far-shining form revealing the splendour of the resurrection, he cries: the Lord is risen. Glory… Now… Glorious things are spoken of you, O Virgin Mother of God, from generation to generation, for, remaining undefiled, you found room in your womb for God the Word. Therefore, we honour you as our protector after God. Katavasia: I shall open my mouth, and the Spirit will inspire it,* and I shall utter the words of my song to the Queen and Mother:* I shall be seen radiantly keeping feast* and joyfully praising her wonders. Ode 3 Irmos: In the beginning, O Christ, you established the heavens in understanding,* and founded the earth upon the waters:* establish me upon the rock of your commandments,* for none is holy but you, only Lover of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The saving suffering of your flesh, O Christ, justified Adam, condemned by the taste of sin; for as the sinless one you were shown in the trial as owing no debt to death. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Jesus , my God, shed the light of his resurrection upon those sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death; and by his divinity he bound the strong man and seized all his goods. Glory… Now… Higher than Cherubim and Seraphim you are declared to be, Mother of God, for you alone, undefiled, received within your womb the illimitable God. Therefore, all the faithful ever sing to you and bless you. Katavasia: O Mother of God, living and plentiful fount,* give strength to those united in spiritual fellowship,* who sing hymns of praise to you:* and in your divine glory vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory. Ode 4 Irmos: O Lord, you are my strength and my might, you are my God and my joy;* without leaving the deep recesses of the Father, you visited our poverty;* so with Habakkuk the prophet, I cry to you:* Glory to your power, O Lover of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Merciful Saviour, you loved me much when I was at enmity with you; in strange self-emptying you came to earth, not rejecting the last recesses of my pride. While remaining still upon the heights of your ineffable glory, you glorified me, formerly so disgraced. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Who is not amazed, O Lord, at seeing death done away through sufferings, corruption take flight through a cross, Hell emptied of its possessions through a death? This is the marvellous work of the divine sovereignty of you, the Crucified One, O Lover of man. Glory… Now… Boast of the faithful, Bride unwed, you are the protection and refuge of Christians, city wall and harbour; for you bring our petitions to your Son and save from danger those who acknowledge you in faith and love as the pure Mother of God. Katavasia: He who sits in glory upon the throne of the Godhead,* Jesus the true God, is come in a swift cloud* and with His sinless hands he has saved those who cry:* Glory to Your power, O Christ. Ode 5 Irmos: Why have you thrust me away from the never-setting light of your face,* so that alien darkness has covered me, most wretched one?* Turn me back, I beg you, and direct my ways* to the light of your commandments. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Before your Passion, O Saviour, you allowed yourself to be clothed in the robe of mockery, thus covering the shameful nakedness of man; and to be nailed naked to the cross while putting off the garment of death. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. When you arose from the dust of death, O Christ, you built again my beggared nature and rendered it immortal, revealing once again the kingly image, radiant with the light of incorruption. Glory… Now… As you possess a mother’s boldness before your Son, All-pure, do not refuse your far-seeing care for our race, we pray you. For you alone, as Christians, we present to the Lord for gracious favour and propitiation. Katavasia: The whole world was amazed* at your divine glory:* for you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock,* have held in your womb the God of all* and have given birth to an eternal Son,* who rewards with salvation all who sing your praises. Ode 6 Irmos: Be merciful to me, O Saviour, for many are my transgressions;* bring me up from the depths of evil, I pray you.* For I have cried out to you,* hear me, O God of my salvation. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Mightily, through a tree, the originating evil overthrew me; uplifted on the cross, O Christ, you cast him down with a greater might, putting him to shame and raising me, the fallen. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Rising from the tomb in compassion you took pity on Zion, by your divine blood bringing about the new in place of the old; and now you reign in her, O Christ, throughout the ages. Glory… Now… May we be rescued from all our grievous stumblings by your prayers, pure Mother of God, and may we meet with the divine outshining of the Son of God, ineffably made flesh of you. Katavasia: As we celebrate* this sacred and solemn feast of the Mother of God,* let us come, clapping our hands, O people of the Lord,* and give glory to God who was born of her. Kontakion, Tone 6 When You rose from the tomb,* You also raised the dead and resurrected Adam.* Eve exults in Your resurrection,* and the ends of the world celebrate Your rising from the dead,* O most merciful One. Ikos My Saviour, long-suffering, Giver of life, you harrowed the kingdom of Hell and raised the dead; you met the women bringing the myrrh and for sorrow gave them joy; to the apostles you made known the signs of victory, and you shone upon your creation, O Lover of man. The whole world therefore rejoices together in your rising from the dead, O you of many mercies. Ode 7 Irmos: The fire in Babylon once was put to shame by the descent of God* and the young men danced in the furnace,* with joy in their steps, as in a grassy meadow,* and sang: Blessed are you, the God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your glorious abasement and the divine wealth of your beggary, O Christ, struck the angels with amazement when they saw you nailed to the cross to save those who cry in faith to you: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. By your divine descent the lowest depths were filled with light, and the darkness and torment of former ages driven away. Then those in age-old bonds rose up and cried: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory… Now… In accordance with orthodox doctrine, we proclaim you Lord of all, only Father of the one, only-begotten Son, and we know the one true Spirit proceeding from you, one with you in nature and co-eternal. Katavasia: The holy children bravely trampled upon the threatening fire,* refusing to worship created things in place of the Creator,* and they sang in joy:* Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our Fathers. Ode 8 Irmos: The Chaldaean tyrant in fury kindled the furnace sevenfold for those who feared God;* then, as he beheld them saved alive by a mightier power than his, their Creator and Redeemer himself,* he cried: Bless him, young men, praise him, O priests,* highly exalt him, O people, throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The power supremely divine of the Godhead of Jesus has shone out in these things: on the cross he tasted death in the flesh for all men, and he brought to nothing the might of Hell. Bless him without ceasing, young men, praise him, O priests, highly exalt him, O people, throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The crucified one arose, the boastful and vainglorious fell, the fallen and the broken are restored, corruption is banished, incorruption has blossomed, for death is swallowed up by life. Bless him, young men, praise him, O priests, highly exalt him, O people, throughout all the ages. Glory… Now… Godhead of threefold light, in single radiance shining from one three-personed nature, Begetter without beginning, Word of the Father’s nature and Spirit consubstantial, co-reigning: bless him, young men, praise him, O priests, exalt him, O people, throughout all the ages. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The Offspring of the Theotokos saved the holy children in the furnace.* He who was then prefigured has since been born on earth,* and He gathers all the creation to sing:* O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: Heaven is amazed and the ends of the earth stricken with fear* that your womb is become wider than the heavens, and God is seen bodily by men.* Therefore, O Mother of God* the ranks of angels and of men magnify you. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Word of God, simple in your nature divine and unoriginate, by giving existence to flesh and assuming it to yourself you became compound: suffering as a man you remained beyond suffering as God. Therefore, we magnify you in the two natures, indivisible and yet without confusion. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Most High, according to the divine essence you are ever one with God as your Father; but when you took the nature of man, coming down to your servants and rising from the tomb, you made him, who is by nature God and Lord, by grace Father of those born of the earth. You with him we magnify. Glory… Now… O Virgin Mother of God, you are seen beyond nature bearing in the body that good Word which the Father as the One Good uttered from his heart before all ages. And we understand him now as being beyond the body, yet clothed with a body Katavasia: Let every mortal born on earth,* radiant with light, in spirit leap for joy;* and let the host of the angelic powers* celebrate and honour the holy feast of the Mother of God,* and let them cry:* Rejoice! Pure and blessed Ever-Virgin, who gave birth to God. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light Truly Christ is risen.* Let no one doubt or be suspicious.* For He appeared to Mary and then to those who went fishing.* Then He appeared to His eleven apostles as they were eating.* He sent them forth to baptize the whole world;* then He ascended to heaven from which He had descended,* confirming His divine message by a multitude of miracles. Glory… Now… O Sun that has risen from the tomb on this day* as a groom from His bridal chamber,* You led Hades captive and trampled Death.* By the intercession of Your Mother,* send us light to enlighten our hearts and souls* and lead us that we may all walk* in the way of Your commandments and in the paths of peace. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 8 O Lord, though You stood before the judgment seat* being judged by Pilate,* yet You were seated with the Father* and were not absent from Your throne.* And risen from the dead You freed the world from slavery to the stranger,* as You are full of compassionate pity and love for mankind. O Lord, the Jews laid You as a corpse in a grave,* and soldiers guarded You as a sleeping king* sealing You with a seal as if a treasury of life;* but You arose* and grant incorruption to our souls. O Lord, You have given us Your Cross as a weapon against the devil;* for he quakes and trembles, unable to contemplate Your power;* for raised the dead and abolished death:* wherefore we worship Your Burial and Your Rising. Your Angel, O Lord, having proclaimed Your Resurrection,* filled the guards with fear,* but he cried to the women saying: Why do you seek the living among the dead?* Being God He is risen* granting life to the whole world.’ You endured the Cross, O You who are impassible in Your Divinity,* to free us from slavery to the enemy* and You accepted burial for three days, making us immortal,* and granting life unto us through Your Resurrection,* O Christ God, Lover of mankind. O Christ, I worship, I glorify, and I praise Your Resurrection from the tomb,* through which You delivered us from the unbreakable bonds of Hades* and as God granted the world eternal life and great mercy. The Lawless men, watching over Your grave* which had received life, sealed it;* but You, as the immortal and all-powerful God,* arose on the third day. When You entered the gates of Hades, O Lord, and shattered them,* the prisoners therein cried aloud:* Who is this? for He has not been condemned to the lowest parts of the earth,* but has torn down the prisons of death as if a tent,* we received Him as One mortal, and we tremble before Him as God.* O All-powerful Saviour have mercy on us. Tone 3, Glory… The disciples were rebuked for the hardness of their hearts* because they doubted when Mary Magdalene proclaimed to them* the resurrection of the Saviour and His appearance to her.* But when they were strengthened with miracles and wonders,* they were sent out to preach.* And when You, O Lord, ascended to Your Father, the Source of all light,* the disciples preached throughout the world* verifying their words with wonders and miracles.* Therefore, we who were enlightened by them,* glorify Your resurrection from the dead, O Lover of mankind. 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: You came down from on high, O Merciful One,* and accepted three days of burial* to free us from our sufferings.* O Lord, our life and our resurrection,* glory be to You. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 8: When You rose from the tomb,* You also raised the dead and resurrected Adam.* Eve exults in Your resurrection,* and the ends of the world celebrate Your rising from the dead,* O most merciful One. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 8: To you, O Mother of God,* the invincible leader,* we, your servants, ascribe these victory hymns* in thanksgiving for our deliverance from evil.* With your invincible power free us from all dangers* that we may cry out to you:* “Hail, O bride, and pure Virgin!” Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Pray and give praise to the Lord our God. verse: In Judea God is known; His name is great in Israel. (Psalm 75:12,2) Epistle Ephesians 4:1-6 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Come, let us rejoice in the Lord; let us acclaim God our Saviour. verse: Let us come before His countenance with praise and acclaim Him with psalms. (Psalm 94:1,2) Gospel Luke 10:25-37 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Nov 9, 2024 - The Holy Martyrs Onisiphorus and Porphyry; Our Venerable Mother Matrona; The Venerable Theoctista of Lesbos.

Sat, 09 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 9, 2024 VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 8 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O martyred athlete, blessed Onesiphorus,* you confessed Christ God, suffering greatly before the tribunal of the iniquitous,* enduring the wounds of blows and the immolation of your whole body.* You have been crowned with the wreath of victory* by the hand of the Creator of life, O all-praised one. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O martyred athlete Porphyrius,* by the grace and power of the Spirit,* you dyed a purple robe for yourself in baths of your blood,* and, arrayed as such, you were shown to be most splendid,* reigning with our one God, who reigns forever, O glorious one.* Beseech Him now that we all be saved. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O right victorious martyrs,* for the Life of all you were slain in sacred manner,* and, rejoicing, you were stretched out on a searing gridiron,* made fast to horses and dragged about, and you thus received a blessed end.* You are glorified and blessed, O ever-blessed ones, who ever pray for us. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You honourably subjected your soul* to the uprisings of the flesh through ascetic feats of fasting, and you followed Christ, and dwelled most devoutly in the midst of the fasters, O Matrona,* quenching the burnings of pleasure with divine showers of tears,* enkindling a most intense desire for the Creator. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You erected a sacred habitation in many for the use of God,* being yourself a temple of the Spirit, O all-wise one,* and by your spiritual purity you have guided souls to the beneficial struggles of fasting,* and you have brought them, saved, to the Master as a dowry, O Matrona.* With them we faithfully honour you. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The maidens loved the Bridegroom and Lord, submitting to His teaching;* and having disdained in the Spirit the weakness of the flesh,* with diligence they piously restrained the passions,* and with you, O Matrona, have been led into the heavenly bridal chamber of God,* ever rejoicing. Tone 7, Glory… 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 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 7 Despising every earthly thing, O holy martyrs,* and bravely preaching Christ before the tribunal,* you received your reward from Him for your sufferings.* Since you have boldness before God,* we beseech you to pray to Him as one almighty,* that He save the souls of those who flee to you for help. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. O all-praised martyrs, you spiritual sheep,* living offerings and sacrifices acceptable and pleasing to the Lord.* You were not buried in the earth, yet heaven has received you;* O you who have become companions of the angels* we entreat you to pray with them to God our Saviour,* that peace be granted to the world, and that our souls be saved. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. In the beginning You formed man according to Your image and likeness,* and You made him dwell in Paradise as ruler over Your creation.* But through the envy of the devil he was deceived* and partook of the fruit, transgressing Your command.* Wherefore, O Lord, You have condemned him to return again to the earth* from whence he was taken,* and to ask of You a peaceful repose. Tone 7, Glory… Now… О you who alone received the uncontainable Word of God,* and have given birth to Him incarnate:* Pray that our souls be saved. Troparia Tone 4 O Lord, Your martyrs in their sufferings* have received imperishable crowns from You, our God;* for, possessed of Your might, they set at naught the tormentors* and destroyed the feeble audacity of the demons,* by their prayers save our souls. Tone 8, Glory… In you, O venerable mother Matrona, the faithful image of God shone forth,* for you carried your cross and followed Christ.* You taught by your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away;* and how to value the soul, for it is immortal.** Therefore, your soul is forever in happiness with the angels. 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,* and saved our souls from death. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: O Lord, Your martyrs in their sufferings* have received imperishable crowns from You, our God;* for, possessed of Your might, they set at naught the tormentors* and destroyed the feeble audacity of the demons,* by their prayers save our souls. Troparion, Tone 8: In you, O venerable mother Matrona, the faithful image of God shone forth,* for you carried your cross and followed Christ.* You taught by your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away;* and how to value the soul, for it is immortal.** Therefore, your soul is forever in happiness with the angels. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 8: You passed through the storm of life without faltering, chosen and godly mother,* guided to the harbour of life, where you sing hymns to the Deliverer!* You ever pray for us,* that Christ may grant us grace and mercy:** you preserve the flock which you painstakingly gathered! Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle Galatians 1:3-10 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 9:37-43 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Nov 8, 2024 - Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and the other bodiless Powers of Heaven.

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 8, 2024 All-Night Vigil Feast. A day when the faithful are highly encouraged to participate in the Divine Liturgy. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. GREAT VESPERS WITH LYTIA ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is taken. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! O Archangel Michael, you manifested yourself* to be the greatest defender of the thrice-holy Source of Light.* Together with the Powers on high, you joyfully call out:* Holy are You, O Father.* Holy are You, O Co-eternal Word.* Holy are You, O Holy Spirit.* You are the one glory, the one kingdom, and one nature;* You are the one Divinity and Power. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. O Archangel Michael, you manifested yourself* to be the greatest defender of the thrice-holy Source of Light.* Together with the Powers on high, you joyfully call out:* Holy are You, O Father.* Holy are You, O Co-eternal Word.* Holy are You, O Holy Spirit.* You are the one glory, the one kingdom, and one nature;* You are the one Divinity and Power. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O Archangel Michael, you are like a flaming fire,* and your godliness is awesome.* By your bodiless nature you cross the ends of the earth,* fulfilling the commands of the Creator of all.* You also make your Church a fountain of healings.* You are venerated because of your holy calling. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You made the winds Your messenger* and flaming fire Your servant, just as it is written.* Among the ranks of Your archangels, O Lord,* You have shown Michael the Archangel to be the leader.* He is obedient to Your commands, O Word.* With fear he sings the thrice-holy hymn to Your glory. Tone 4 From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. By divine grace, O Gabriel,* the eternal intelligence created you to be a second light.* You were to illumine the whole world* that you might reveal a divine and truly great mystery* which had been hidden from eternity:* that God Who is bodiless was made flesh in a virgin womb* and became man to save mankind. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. By divine grace, O Gabriel,* the eternal intelligence created you to be a second light.* You were to illumine the whole world* that you might reveal a divine and truly great mystery* which had been hidden from eternity:* that God Who is bodiless was made flesh in a virgin womb* and became man to save mankind. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O Gabriel, you stand before the throne of the thrice-holy Source of Light.* Glistening with celestial splendour.* We on earth joyfully dance and sing your praises.* O leader of the heavenly hosts,* O intercessor for our souls,* deliver us from the darkness of our passion* by illuminating us with your light. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O Gabriel, leader of the heavenly hosts* and intercessor for our souls,* crush the boldness of those who attack your flock.* Put an end to schisms within the Church.* Calm the storm of numberless temptations.* Deliver from trial and tribulation* those who lovingly venerate you* and hasten to protect us with the shadow of your wings. Tone 6, Glory… Rejoice with us, all you leaders of the angels;* for the great Archangel, your captain and our guardian,* appears today in his holy church.* He wondrously watches over us and truly sanctifies this place.* Therefore, singing his praises daily,* let us cry out to him:* Keep us safe by the protection of your wings,* O great Archangel Michael. 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) Joshua 5:13-15; (2) Judges 6:7, 11-24; (3) Isaiah 14:6-20 Lytia Tone 1 The leaders of the heavenly hosts* stand unceasingly before the throne of the Master.* They pray to the Lord to grant peace to the world* and great mercy to our souls. As the leader of the Powers on high,* Michael has summoned us today for the feast.* He is always by our side* and preserves us today from every attack of the devil.* Come, therefore, O lovers of the feasts and lovers of Christ,* let us carry the flowers of virtue;* and with a pure mind and a clear conscience,* let us venerate the feast of the Archangel.* For he stands unceasingly before God, singing the thrice-holy hymn,* interceding for our souls to be saved. Tone 2 O bodiless Powers, you intercede for us.* O Leaders of the heavenly hosts,* by the brightness of your thrice-radiant glory* you give light to the whole world;* with unceasing voices you sing the thrice-holy hymn.* Pray, therefore, that our souls may be saved. O intelligent, celestial, and bodiless Powers,* you surround the heavenly throne* and with flaming lips sing the thrice-holy hymn to God the ruler:* O holy God, O eternal Father;* O holy, mighty, and co-eternal Son;* O holy and immortal Spirit having the same nature,* and glorified together with the Father and the Son. With immaterial lips and spiritual mouths,* the angelic ranks offer hymns to Your unapproachable divinity, O Lord.* Both the pure spirits and ministers of Your glory,* together with the incorporeal Michael and Gabriel, praise You, O Lord.* The leaders of the heavenly powers,* and the chiefs of the angels welcome us today.* They invite us to sing to Your unapproachable glory.* O Lover of Mankind,* they pray unceasingly for our souls. Tone 4, Glory… With flaming lips, the Cherubim extol You, O Christ God;* and with immaterial mouths, the choirs of Archangels* loudly extols Your glory.* Michael, the captain of the heavenly powers,* unceasingly offers a song of victory to Your glory.* He has prepared us today for this feast,* so that even with lips of clay,* we may worthily sing aloud the thrice-holy hymn* as it is in the psalms.* All creation is filled with the praise of You, O Christ.* For this reason You give great mercy to the world. Now… Today the Theotokos, the Temple that is to contain God,* is being escorted into the Temple of the Lord,* and Zechariah receives her.* Today the Holy of Holies greatly rejoices,* and the choir of angels mystically celebrates this feast.* Let us also celebrate with them today* and cry out with Gabriel:* Rejoice, O Full of Grace, the Lord is with you,* and He grants us great mercy. Aposticha Tone 1 While solemnly celebrating on earth,* let us sing as the angels to God* Who is seated on the throne of glory:* Holy are You, O heavenly Father;* holy are You, O co-eternal Word;* holy are You, O all-holy Spirit. You made the winds your messengers and flaming fire your ministers. O eyewitness of ineffable things,* because of your great courage* you are the leader of the heavenly beings.* You gloriously stand before the awesome throne, O Michael.* By your prayers, save those who are suffering* because of trials and tribulations. Praise the Lord, all His angels; praise Him, all His hosts. You are the chief of the bodiless angels* and a minister of the Divine Splendour.* You are an eyewitness and a mystic, O Michael.* Save us who devoutly honour you each year* and who faithfully extol the Trinity. Tone 8, Glory… Now… O Archangel, since you are a soldier* and leader of the heavenly hosts* and the captain of the angels, O glorious one,* deliver from every care and worry,* from illnesses and bitter sins,* those who faithfully extol and beseech you.* You see the Lord Who is Spirit;* you are illumined by the unapproachable light of the Master’s glory.* For He, out of love for all people,* became incarnate of the Virgin for our sake.* By this, He wished to save mankind. Troparia Tone 4 Princes of the heavenly hosts,* we, though unworthy, beg you* to encircle us through your prayers* under the shelter of the wings of your spiritual glory.* Guard us as we come to you and sincerely cry: * “Deliver us from dangers,* O princes of the powers on high!” (twice) 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 Saviour and Deliverer of our souls. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Princes of the heavenly hosts,* we, though unworthy, beg you* to encircle us through your prayers* under the shelter of the wings your spiritual glory.* Guard us as we come to you and sincerely cry:* Deliver us from dangers,* O princes of the powers on high! Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Princes of God’s hosts, ministers of divine glory,* leaders of angels and guides of men,* pray for our welfare and for great mercy,* O princes of the incorporeal powers. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 He makes spirits His angels and flaming fire His ministers. verse: Bless the Lord, O my soul; O Lord my God, you are very great (Psalm 103:4,1) Epistle Hebrews 2:2-10 Alleluia, Tone 5 verse: Praise the Lord, all you His angels; praise Him, all you powers. verse: For He spoke, and they came into being; He commanded and they were created (Psalm 148:2,5) Gospel Luke 10:16-21 Communion Hymn He makes spirits His angels,* and flaming fire His ministers.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 103:4):

Nov 7, 2024 - The Thirty-Three Holy Martyrs of Militene; Our Venerable Father and Wonderworker Lazarus, Hermit of Mount Galesius.

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 7, 2024 VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. You were fittingly revealed* as a divinely assembled regiment, greatly glorious ones:* a sacred army, a godly company, a holy nation;* a legion of martyrs inspired by God,* a noble gathering and unbreakable alliance,* inhabitants of the city on high!* Therefore you are rightly called blessed! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Let us all assemble and honour Nicander,* with Hesychius, Athanasius and Mamas,* the divine Barachius and Callinicus, Theogenes and Nicon,* Longinus and Theodore, Valerius and Xanthius,* Theodulus, Callimachus and Eugene,* the godly Theodochus and Ostrychius! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Let us together hymn the true witnesses with faith:* the valiant Hieron, the glorious Epiphanius, Maximian and Ducitius, Claudian and Theophilus* and the godly Gigantius, Dorotheus and Theodotus,* Castrycius, Anicetas and Themelius,* and also Eutychius! Tone 6 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Having set aside all the folly of the passions* and made your flesh subject to your spirit,* you became a rule of virtue, the confirmation of monastics, * a model for those who fast, the adornment of the venerable ones!* Now you behold the ineffable beauty of your Creator* and are ever nurtured by the Spirit on the beauties of heaven!* Therefore we have assembled to celebrate with hymns and sweet songs* your honoured and most festive memory! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You cut off all the heavy burden of material things* and the great turmoil of the flesh.* Wise one, controlling even your breath,* you remained untouched by the passions,* your courageous mind strong as a pillar surrounded by spiritual armor!* Now you have truly received the divine vision and splendour* and have taken your place before Him whom you desired,* where made divine by your manner,* you delight in His never-ending radiance! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You loved the Light, like Elijah and John the Forerunner. * You observed stillness in the mountains and arid deserts,* ever learning to ascend towards God and excelling in the virtues.* Therefore you have gained your ultimate desire, all-wise one,* and you stand rejoicing before the triply-radiant light of the Trinity* from whom you received divine splendour!* Intercede with boldness on behalf of our souls! Tone 5, Glory... Venerable father, you did not give sleep to your eyes nor slumber to your eyelids,* until you freed your soul and body from the passions,* preparing yourself to be a dwelling-place of the Spirit!* Christ, coming with the Father, made His dwelling in you!* Since you are a favourite of the consubstantial Trinity,* great preacher, Lazarus our father,* ever pray on behalf of our souls! Now… O strange, awesome and great mystery!* The Uncircumscribable One has made His abode within a womb,* and a Mother remains a Virgin even after birthgiving,* for from her she gave birth to God Incarnate.* To Him, then, let us cry aloud, to Him let us raise a hymn, chanting with the angels:* Holy are You, O Christ God, who was incarnate for our sake!* Glory be to You! Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 7 О glorious apostles, pillars of the Church, preachers of the Truth, radiant beacons:* With the fire of the Spirit you consumed all delusion* and illumined the race of mankind with faith.* Wherefore, we beseech you: Entreat our Saviour and God,* that He grant peace to the world and save our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. О apostles of Christ, husbandmen of the Saviour,* bearing the Cross upon your shoulders as a plough,* and having cleared the earth made hard by the delusion of idolatry,* you sowed the word of faith*. And you are fittingly honoured, О holy apostles of Christ. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. О most praised martyrs, spiritual lambs,* reason-endowed holocausts, acceptable sacrifices well-pleasing to God:* the earth could not hide you, but heaven received you,* and you have become communicants with the angels.* With them entreat our Saviour and God,* we pray you, that He grant peace to the world and save our souls. Tone 6, Glory… The sound of your teachings has gone out into all the earth, venerable father Lazarus!* 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… The eye of my heart longingly seeks you, O Lady;* disdain not my feeble sigh.* At the hour when your Son shall judge the world,* be my protection and helper. Troparia Tone 4 O Lord our God, your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Tone 8, Glory… Your falling tears and constant prayers soaked the pillar,* and the thoughts of your heart produced fruit a hundred-fold.* You were a shepherd, and you obtain remission for all.* O father Lazarus, beg Christ our God to save our souls. Now… O pure Mother of God, you are the gate of spiritual life,* save from all dangers those who run to you with confidence* to glorify your holy birthgiving* for the salvation of our souls. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: O Lord our God, your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Troparion, Tone 8: Your falling tears and constant prayers soaked the pillar,* and the thoughts of your heart produced fruit a hundred-fold.* You were a shepherd, and you obtain remission for all.* O father Lazarus, beg Christ our God to save our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 8: The radiant choir of martyrs in festal robes* adorns the Church today by their presence among us.* We celebrate their precious memory* and beg favour from you, O Saviour.* By their prayers keep us from all troubles* so that we can sing to you: Alleluia! Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: The Church of Christ praises you with a host of psalms,* for you have become one of her lights.* Do not cease your prayers to Christ,* that we may obtain the remission of our sins. 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 115:15,12) Epistle 2 Thessalonians 2:13-3:5 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 Luke 13:1-9 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Nov 6, 2024 - The Holy Paul, Archbishop of Constantinople, Confessor.

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 6, 2024 Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The divinely-eloquent Paul ordains you, most blessed one,* as his namesake and follower!* You are adorned with his character and piety,* his endurance through tribulations!* Aflame with his zeal, you are a champion of orthodoxy!* Now you are glorified with him in the heavenly mansions! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. The divinely-eloquent Paul ordains you, most blessed one,* as his namesake and follower!* You are adorned with his character and piety,* his endurance through tribulations!* Aflame with his zeal, you are a champion of orthodoxy!* Now you are glorified with him in the heavenly mansions! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. You strangled the ungodly Arius and the impious Macedonius* with the strong cords of your teachings!* With your true words of doctrine,* you strengthened multitudes of the orthodox faithful, hieromartyr and father!* Therefore, the Lover of mankind accepted your brilliant confession,* revealing you to be a dweller in His Kingdom! For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You strangled the ungodly Arius and the impious Macedonius* with the strong cords of your teachings!* With your true words of doctrine,* you strengthened multitudes of the orthodox faithful, hieromartyr and father!* Therefore, the Lover of mankind accepted your brilliant confession,* revealing you to be a dweller in His Kingdom! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Christ has crowned you with a bright wreath of righteousness, blessed bishop!* You have kept the faith; you have finished your course,* and He has adorned your confession, truly wondrous one!* Therefore, since you have received your inheritance in heaven,* Pray to the Saviour for those who sing praises to you! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Most blessed Paul, the namesake of confession,* you are the intercessor for those who praise you in faith:* deliver us from all misfortune and every sin,* from the storm of the passions and from tyranny,* for you are an invincible martyr, father, a rightly-accepted bishop!* You have acquired boldness before Christ our God! Tone 1, Glory... Clothed in the vestments of a bishop, venerable father,* you imitated your namesake, Paul.* You endured persecution and tribulations;* by constant toil you overthrew the blasphemous teachings of Arius!* You suffered for the Unoriginate and Consubstantial Trinity;* you cast down the impious Macedonius who fought against the Spirit!* You gave a clear explanation of the orthodox faith to all,* for you are united with the immaterial angels.* Together with them, pray that our souls may be saved! Now… Of old, when you beheld your Son and Master* stretching forth His hands upon the Cross,* His side pierced by the spear,* О pure Mother, you cried out, lamenting:* “Woe is me! How is it that You suffer, ridding men of their suffering,* О Lover of mankind?” Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 7 No longer are we forbidden the Tree of life,* for we have Your Cross as our hope.* О Lord, glory be to You! I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Suspended upon the Tree, О Immortal One,* You broke the snares of the devil.* О Lord, glory be to You! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Caring nothing for all the things of earth, О holy martyrs,* and having manfully preached Christ at the tribunal,* you received from Him rewards for your torments;* but as you have boldness, beseech Him,* as the almighty God, that He save the souls of us who flee to you, we pray. Tone 1 Your priests shall be clothed with righteousness, and Your righteous shall rejoice. O venerable father Paul, invested with virtue by Christ God,* strengthened by the faith you valiantly conquered every horde of demons and barbarians,* and established your flock upon a rock, unassailed by any heresy.* Joining the angels in chorus, pray to the Saviour* that our souls be preserved in peace. Tone 2, Glory… Sailing the deep of fasting with the sail of abstinence,* you escaped the storm of the passions, O venerable one.* Being the namesake of the divine Paul, you endured persecution and tribulations,* maltreated amid the blasphemies of the heretics.* You cast down the opinions of Arius,* and, vanquishing the heresy of Nestorius, you have been shown to be a zealot of the Church of Christ.* Entreat Him, O blessed hierarch, that our souls be saved. Now… Having endured many pangs during the crucifixion of thy Son and God, O most pure one, * you groaned, weeping and crying aloud:* “Woe is me, O my sweet Child!* How is it that you suffer unjustly,* desiring to deliver the mortal descendants of Adam?”* Wherefore, O most pure Virgin, we entreat you with faith:* Render Him merciful to us! Troparia Tone 3 The Church sees you as another Paul* because of your confession of the divine faith.* The blood of Abel and Zechariah calls for you to the Lord.* O father, beg Christ our God to have mercy on us. Glory… Now… O Mother of God, we have obtained your Son’s cross as a staff of power* with which to strike down the boastings of the enemy.* Therefore, we exalt you without ceasing. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 3: The Church sees you as another Paul* because of your confession of the divine faith.* The blood of Abel and Zechariah calls for you to the Lord.* O father, beg Christ our God to 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 2: You shone over the earth like a heavenly star,* and now you enlighten the universal Church.* for her sake you shed your blood and made a gift of your soul, O Paul.* Just like the blood of Abel and Zechariah,* your blood cried out to the Lord with might. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The venerable ones will exult in glory* and they shall be joyful in their beds. verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; let His praise be in the assembly of the venerable ones. (Psalm 149:5,1) Epistle 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 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 Luke 12:48-59 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Nov 5, 2024 - Holy Martyrs Galaction and Epistemis.

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 5, 2024 VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 7 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O most compassionate Master and God, by the judgments which You know* grant that I may have the fear of You in my heart,* that I may spurn the works of the evil one,* love You with all my soul, and do Your saving will;* for You are our God, who said: Ask, and you shall receive. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. I have become a mockery for the demons and contemptable for men,* lamentation for the righteous and weeping for the angels,* polluting the air, the earth, and the waters;* for I have defiled my body* and sullied my soul and mind with countless evil acts,* and have become an enemy to God.* Woe is me, О Lord! I have sinned, I have sinned against You!* Forgive me! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. I pray: Be patient with me, who am devoid of fruits, О Master,* and cut me not down like the barren tree with the axe of death,* dispatching me to the fire;* but be entreated to make me fruitful,* giving me time for repentance, in that You love mankind,* that I may wash away my many sins, О Christ my Saviour. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You were raised on the milk of the ascetic life,* coming to Christ in maturity, Galaction.* Through many tortures and afflictions,* you gave yourself as an acceptable offering and perfect sacrifice.* By your free will, and firm, unwavering faith,* you came to God and now dwell in divine glory! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You wisely sought the source of all blessings,* and the consummation of all desire:* By his illumination, Episteme,* you were enlightened in soul and understanding.* By your steadfastness, divinely blessed one* you destroyed the ancient and crafty serpent.* You are the divine adornment of monastics, long-suffering martyr! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The two radiant stars arise by grace from the spiritual east,* enlightening with virtue the whole creation, * shining with the brilliance of their struggles* and the divine grace of healing. * As we celebrate their feast, let us glorify Christ,* Who through them sanctifies all mankind! Tone 7, Glory… Now… O Lady, to the right tranquil haven of salvation* guide me who am tempest-tossed* amid the tumult of slothfulness. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 7 I have come, О Compassionate One, like the prodigal son.* As one of Your hirelings accept me who fall down before You, О God,* and have mercy on me, О Lover of mankind. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Like the one who fell among thieves and was wounded,* so have I fallen through many sins, and my soul hath been wounded.* To whom shall I who am guilty flee?* If not to You alone, the Physician of our souls.* О God, pour forth upon me Your great mercy! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. О holy martyrs, you who have fought the good fight and received crowns:* Entreat the Lord, that He have mercy upon our souls. Tone 7, Glory… Now… Rejoice, O Sovereign Lady, O cloud of the noetic and ineffable Sun!* Rejoice, all-luminous lantern: Rejoice all-golden candle-stand.* Through you, O most holy one, has Eve been delivered from the curse.* But as you possess boldness before your Son and God* who is readily moved to compassion,* fail not to entreat Him by your maternal supplication, O most pure one. Troparia Tone 4 Your holy martyrs, O Lord,* by their passions acquired the crowns of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power they overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By their supplications, save our souls. Glory… Now… Let us poor sinners hasten with fervour to the Mother of God;* let us humbly kneel before her and say from the depth of our hearts:* O Lady, be kind to us and help us.* Hasten, for we are perishing under a multitude of sins.* Do not turn away your servants empty-handed,* for you are their only hope and protection. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Your holy martyrs, O Lord,* by their passions acquired the crowns of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power they overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By their supplications, 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 2: As bright and unerring stars you appeared to the world* proclaiming with your rays the Sun, that is, Christ, O martyrs,* and you have extinguished all error.* But to us you give light, praying without ceasing for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land,* the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord always in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle 2 Thessalonians 1:10-2:2 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 12:42-48 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Nov 4, 2024 - Our Venerable Father Joannicius the Great; The Holy Martyr Nicander, Bishop of Myra. The Holy Hermas, Priest.

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 4, 2024 VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O you who were illumined by light divine,* when with purity of mind you lifted up your eyes* and likewise preferred things which are to come eternally to things which are inconstant,* then, receiving fire in your heart, O father,* like a deer you thirsted for divine love;* and, unmindful of flesh and blood,* you prepared yourself for the struggles of asceticism,* for which cause you made the passions of thy body subject to your soul. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. To ascend the mountains of God you made your dwelling in the heights,* without being brought low by the vigilant needs of this lowly body, O father Joannicius;* for, uniting yourself to the Good One by standing whole nights and days in prayer,* you were illumined and received the gift of prophecy,* to behold things afar off as though they were near,* and to foretell to the faithful things which are to come.* Wherefore, we glorify you as a divine teacher. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The assaults and darts of the demons* you mightily blunted with the entreaties of your prayers,* and by the power of God, O right glorious one, you triumphed over them.* Wherefore, as you were refreshed by the humility of thy heart,* the Good One has given you miracles as honours.* For this cause, your precious relics pour forth fragrant myrrh,* for you have shown yourself to be the sweet fragrance of Christ, O father Joannicius. Tone 2 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Receiving a fitting name through divine providence, O father,* you confirmed it, signifying it materially;* for in your endurance you vanquished multitudes of adversaries and the assembly of torturers.* Wherefore, receiving a crown of victory, you cried out with faith:* Glory to Your invincible might, O You who loves mankind! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. On this, your divine memorial,* you pour forth the most fragrant myrrh of healings upon us today, O wise Nicander;* You drive away the darkness of sorrows and bodily sufferings,* and fill with rich grace the assembly of all who cry out to Christ:* You are the inexhaustible myrrh perfuming all who hymn You! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. As you have boldness before Christ, who alone is glorious in His saints,* entreat Him, O venerable Nicander,* for all who with love celebrate your memory and praise your corrections,* that through grace we may become partakers of His ineffable good things* and incorruptible glory. Tone 6, Glory… O venerable father, the sound of your corrections has gone forth into all the earth;* wherefore, you have found the reward of your labours in the heavens.* You destroyed hordes of demons and have attained to the ranks of the angels,* whose life you blamelessly emulated.* As you have boldness before Christ God, ask peace for our souls. Now… О Theotokos, who at the sound of the archangel’s voice* conceived in your womb the Word,* who with the Father and the Spirit is equally beginningless,* you have been revealed to be more exalted than the cherubim, seraphim, and thrones. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 7 As did the Prodigal Son, I also come to You, O compassionate one,* and I fall down before You.* Accept me as one of Your hired servants O God,* and have mercy on me, O Lover of mankind. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Like the man who fell among thieves and was wounded,* I also have fallen as a result of the multitude of sins,* and my soul has been grievously wounded.* To whom shall I, guilty as I am, flee for refuge,* if not to You, the merciful Physician of souls?* Pour upon me, O God, Your great mercy. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Glory to You, О Christ God,* boast of the apostles and joy of the martyrs,* who preached the consubstantial Trinity! Tone 8, Glory… We honour you as the instructor of a multitude of monks, O Joannicius our father;* for through your steps we have truly recognized how to walk aright.* Blessed are you who, labouring for Christ,* denounced the power of the enemy,* O converser with the angels, companion of the venerable and the righteous.* With them pray to the Lord that our souls find mercy. Now… Taking up the cry of the Archangel Gabriel, let us say:* Rejoice, O Mother of God, who has given birth to Christ,* the bestower of life upon the world! Troparia Tone 4 You fought like a brave soldier against the hostile flesh,* and you battled spiritual enemies by deep fasting.* You vanquished legions of devils by humility* and have shown yourself a great conqueror.* You received the power to heal from God.* O Joannicus, now beg Him to save our souls. Glory… O Lord our God, your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Now… To the One who was reared in the Temple,* close to the Holy of Holies,* and who was full of faith, wisdom, and perfect virginity,* Gabriel, the captain and leader,* offered esteem and greetings from heaven when he said:* Rejoice, O blessed One! Rejoice, O glorified One!* The Lord is with you. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: You fought like a brave soldier against the hostile flesh,* and you battled spiritual enemies by deep fasting.* You vanquished legions of devils by humility* and have shown yourself a great conqueror.* You received the power to heal from God.* O Joannicus, now beg Him to save our souls. Troparion, Tone 4: O Lord our God, your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 8: You became a brilliant star over the earth,* guiding those in the fog of passions.* You became a truly effective doctor,* for you received the grace to heal.* O father Joannicus, heal those who petition you,* that we may ever sing to you. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: You were enlightened with the anointing of truth,* and you were illumined by the blood of martyrdom.* With joy you have taken up your place among the angels.* We gladly keep your memory today,* hoping to obtain purification through your prayers. 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 115:15,12) Epistle 2 Thessalonians 1:1-10 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 Luke 12:13-15, 22-31 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Nov 3, 2024 - Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost, Tone 7. The Holy Martyrs Acepsimas the Bishop, Joseph the Priest, and Aithalis the Deacon; The Dedication of the Church of the Holy Great Martyr George in Lydda where his precious body is entombed.

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 3, 2024 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! Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. O Christ, although You were taken captive by Your enemies,* I still acknowledge You as my God,* and I am not ashamed of You;* I will not hide the fact that You were nailed to the Cross.* Your death is my life, almighty Lord,* and I extol Your resurrection.* O Lover of mankind, glory to You! If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. In fulfilment of the prophecy of David,* Christ revealed His majesty to His disciples in Sion.* He showed Himself to be worthy of equal praise* with His Father and the Holy Spirit;* for He existed from all eternity as God the Word, without a body;* then, out of love for mankind, He became incarnate,* and for our sake He was put to death as a man;* finally, by His own power He arose from the dead. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O Christ, of Your own free will, You descended into Hades;* and, as God the Lord, You destroyed death.* On the third day You arose from the dead and raised up Adam* from the bonds of Hades and corruption.* In joy he cried out and said:* Glory to Your resurrection, O Lover of mankind! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Lord, You were placed in the tomb as one sleeping,* and on the third day You arose in might and power.* You raised up Adam from the corruption of death,* for You alone are almighty. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Most glorious wonder!* The handsome Acepsimus who ministered to the martyrs* today is crowned with a wreath of hymns.* He puts before us the suffering he endured for his worship of God* and wounds the bodiless enemy!* What great gifts of grace he received!* Through his prayers, save our souls, O Christ,* since You are great in love and mercy! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Most glorious wonder!* Joseph shines forth as a star from Persia!* He destroyed the outrage of sorcery through the Spirit;* he extinguished the impious worship of fire with the streams of his blood!* How great is the strength by which he cast down the demons!* Through his prayers, save our souls, O Christ,* since You are compassionate! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Most glorious wonder!* The steadfast Aithalas, a champion of suffering,* is revealed as an ever-blossoming garden.* Cut down, it brings forth the flower of wounds;* slain, it then begins to live! What great strength of nature through which he endured!* Through his prayers, save our souls, O Christ,* since You are compassionate! Tone 7, Glory… Now... Immaculate Mother of God,* you became a mother outside the laws of nature,* remaining a virgin in a way that exceeds all description* and human understanding.* The wonder of your birth-giving could not be told in human language,* for your conception of Christ blinded intelligence,* and your birth-giving exceeded understanding:* for whenever God so desires, the laws of nature are broken.* Wherefore, we all firmly believe that you are the Mother of God,* and we eagerly beseech you to intercede for the salvation of our souls. Aposticha 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 7, Glory... Now... All of us on earth hasten to take refuge in you, O Lady;* and we cry out to you:* O Mother of God, you are the only hope for us;* deliver us from our countless sins, and save our souls. 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 4, Glory… Your holy martyrs, O Lord,* through their sufferings have received their incorruptible crowns from You, our God!* For having Your strength, they laid low their adversaries,* and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.* Through their intercessions, save our souls! Now... O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created,* and saved our souls from death. 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 4, Glory… Your holy martyrs, O Lord,* through their sufferings have received their incorruptible crowns from You, our God!* For having Your strength, they laid low their adversaries,* and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.* Through their intercessions, save our souls! Now... O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created,* and saved our souls from death. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small 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, 23 Small 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 Mark 16:1-18 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. Glory… Now… 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. Katavasia: I shall open my mouth, and the Spirit will inspire it,* and I shall utter the words of my song to the Queen and Mother:* I shall be seen radiantly keeping feast* and joyfully praising her wonders. 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. Glory… Now… 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. Katavasia: O Mother of God, living and plentiful fount,* give strength to those united in spiritual fellowship,* who sing hymns of praise to you:* and in your divine glory vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory. 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. Glory… Now… All-blameless One, as truly Mother of God entreat your Son and Maker to guide me to the safe harbour of his glorious will. Katavasia: He who sits in glory upon the throne of the Godhead,* Jesus the true God, is come in a swift cloud* and with His sinless hands he has saved those who cry:* Glory to Your power, O Christ. 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. Glory… Now… 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. Katavasia: The whole world was amazed* at your divine glory:* for you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock,* have held in your womb the God of all* and have given birth to an eternal Son,* who rewards with salvation all who sing your praises. 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. Glory… Now… 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. Katavasia: As we celebrate* this sacred and solemn feast of the Mother of God,* let us come, clapping our hands, O people of the Lord,* and give glory to God who was born of her. Kontakion, Tone 7 No longer shall the dominion of death be able to hold humanity,* for Christ went down shattering and destroying it s powers.* Hades is bound.* The prophets exult with one voice.* The Saviour has come for those with faith, saying:* “Come forth, O faithful, to the resurrection!” Ikos Today, death and Hell and the lowest depths shake with terror at the presence of one of the Trinity. Earth is thrown into confusion, at the sight of you Hell’s doorkeepers cower in fear. But all creation, rejoicing with the prophets, sings to you, sings a song of victory to our Redeemer and God, destroying now the power of death. Come, let us raise a shout of joy to A dam and all his children: The tree has brought him back. Come out, you faithful, into the resurrection. 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. Glory… Now… 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. Katavasia: The holy children bravely trampled upon the threatening fire,* refusing to worship created things in place of the Creator,* and they sang in joy:* Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord 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. Glory… Now… 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. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The Offspring of the Theotokos saved the holy children in the furnace.* He who was then prefigured has since been born on earth,* and He gathers all the creation to sing:* O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. 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. Glory… Now… 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. Katavasia: Let every mortal born on earth,* radiant with light, in spirit leap for joy;* and let the host of the angelic powers* celebrate and honour the holy feast of the Mother of God,* and let them cry:* Rejoice! Pure and blessed Ever-Virgin, who gave birth to God. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light When the myrrh-bearing women saw the stone rolled away, they rejoiced;* for they saw a young man sitting at the grave who said to them:* Behold, Christ is risen!* Say to Peter, the disciple of the Lord:* Hasten to the mountain in Galilee;* there you shall see Christ* as He had said to His friends. Glory… Now… At the time of Your conception, O Lord,* an angel said to the Virgin: Rejoice!* At the time of Your resurrection* an angel also rolled the stone away from Your glorious tomb.* Instead of sadness and death one proclaimed signs of joy;* the other announced You as the Source of life* extolling Your resurrection to the disciples and the women. 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!’ By Your mighty power, O Lord,* You have destroyed the gates of Hades and abolished the dominion of death;* raising with Yourself the dead who slept therein from eternity in darkness,* by Your divine and glorious Resurrection,* as King of the universe* and as God All-powerful. Come, let us rejoice in the Lord* and be glad in His Resurrection;* for He has raised the dead with Himself* from the indestructible bonds of Hades,* and as God has bestowed upon the world* eternal life and great mercy. A radiant Angel sat on the stone of the grave that held Life,* and announced the good tidings to the Myrrh-bearing women saying:* The Lord is risen, as He foretold to you;* announce to His Disciples that He goes before you into Galilee;* while to the world He grants eternal life* and great mercy. O you exceedingly wicked Jews, why did you reject the Cornerstone?* This is the stone which God has placed in Sion,* God Who in the wilderness made water spring forth from the rock,* and for us poured forth immortality from His side;* this is the stone which was hewn from the Virginal mountain, by the will of the Son of man,* who comes again on the clouds of heaven* before the Ancient of days, as Daniel has said,* and His Kingdom is everlasting. Tone 2, Glory… They who were with Mary came and brought ointments,* but they wondered how they would achieve their goal.* However, they saw that the stone had already been rolled away,* and a divine angel appeared and gave peace to their troubled souls.* He said: The Lord Jesus has risen.* Therefore, proclaim to His disciples* that they should hasten to Galilee and behold Him risen from the dead;* for He is the Lord, the Giver of life. 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 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. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 7: No longer shall the dominion of death be able to hold humanity,* for Christ went down shattering and destroying it s powers.* Hades is bound.* The prophets exult with one voice.* The Saviour has come for those with faith, saying:* “Come forth, O faithful, to the resurrection!” Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 7: O all-praised treasury of our resurrection, we hope in you,* bring us up from the pit and depth of sin,* for you have saved those subject to sin* by giving birth to our Salvation,* O Virgin before childbirth, and Virgin in childbirth,* and still a Virgin after childbirth. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The Lord will give strength to His people;* the Lord will bless His people with peace. verse: Bring to the Lord, O you sons of God; bring to the Lord young rams. (Psalm 28:11,1) Epistle Ephesians 2:14-22 Alleluia, Tone 7 verse: It is good to give praise to the Lord; and to sing to Your name, O Most High. verse: To announce Your mercy in the morning, and Your truth every night. (Psalm 91:2,3) Gospel Luke 8:41-56 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Nov 2, 2024 - The Holy Martyrs Acindynus, Pegasius, Aphtonius, Elpidephorus, and Anempodistus.

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 2, 2024 VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let us hymn the company of the five martyrs:* The wise Acindynus* with Pegasus and Elpidephorus,* Aphtonius and Anempodistus!* They are valiant athletes and fervent protectors.* They pour forth abundant grace and unfailing hope,* granting them freely to the faithful! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Neither hunger, nor tribulation,* neither life nor death,* nor boiling cauldrons nor the depths of the earth,* nor even the mouths of wild beasts* could separate your brave deeds of patient endurance from the love of Christ!* You continually directed your gaze towards Him:* Desiring Him alone, you vanquished the enemy! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. As you delight in sweetness and are filled with light,* inheriting eternal life, divinely wise ones,* deliver those who pray to you and honour your place of martyrdom* from misfortunes, bondage and imprisonment!* For you have boldness before God and great mercy* as true imitators and followers of Christ! Tone 6 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Walking in the footsteps of the sufferings of Christ,* the whole company of the martyrs mightily went forth to many struggles.* They confessed Him as God before ungodly tyrants and iniquitous kings,* and endured many tortures, in the hope of receiving heavenly honours.* These they now behold, rejoicing, and standing before the Lord* with the choirs of all the incorporeal hosts. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. О all-sacred shepherds, you were emulators of the Christ, the Chief Shepherd,* and preserved utterly unharmed the divinely chosen flock,* the divine treasures of piety,* driving away the wild wolves, and bringing them into the fold of heaven.* As you make your abode there, remember those who praise you with love,* and pray with boldness to Christ on behalf of our souls. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. О all you venerable fathers, who living in holiness, vanquished the demons;* and extinguishing the torments of conscience,* valiantly endured the burning of the passions, О blessed ones,* and you rejoice now with the heavenly hosts of incorporeal beings;* for in the flesh you emulated their life.* With them entreat Christ, the supremely good God,* that we who honour you may find deliverance from our falls. Tone 6, Glory… 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 have mercy on our souls. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 6 Those who suffered martyrdom for You, O Christ,* endured a multitude of torments,* and they ever intercede on behalf of our souls. Blessed are they whom You have chosen* and taken to Yourself, О Lord. You Cross, O Lord, was an invincible weapon of the martyrs.* They saw death before them:* but, gazing upon the life that is to come,* they became strengthened with hope in You.* By their intercessions have mercy upon us. Their souls* shall dwell amid good things. Your command was to me my beginning and foundation.* For You willed to fashion me as a living creature* from natures visible and invisible:* You have made my body from the earth,* and given me a soul by Your divine and quickening breath.* Therefore, O Saviour, grant rest to Your servants in the land of the living,* in the tabernacles of the righteous. Tone 2, Glory… Come, let us rejoice in the Lord today:* The day of the commemoration of the passion-bearers!* Come, all who love the feasts of the Church!* Let us give glory, offering them mystical praise:* Rejoice, Acindynus!* Rejoice, Pegasus and Anempodistus!* Rejoice, Elpidephorus!* Rejoice, Aphtonius!* You drowned the deceits of idolatry in the depths of the sea;* you preached Christ the Lord openly in the arena!* Therefore, most blessed, greatly suffering ones,* ever intercede for our souls! Now… Save from misfortunes, your servants, O Virgin Theotokos,* for after God it is to you that we flee,* as to an impregnable rampart and protection. Troparia Tone 2 O victorious witnesses of the Lord,* blessed is the earth which has drunk your blood.* Holy are the tombs which have received your bodies.* In the furnace you conquered the foe and preached Christ.* Intercede with the gracious Lord to save our souls. Glory… Now… O Mother of God, the mysteries which surround you are exceedingly glorious* and beyond the power of understanding.* For you retained the seal of purity,* and your virginity remained inviolate;* yet you are acknowledged, without doubt,* to be the Mother who gave birth to the true God.* We beg you, therefore, to entreat Him to save our souls. DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: O victorious witnesses of the Lord,* blessed is the earth which has drunk your blood.* Holy are the tombs which have received your bodies.* In the furnace you conquered the foe and preached Christ.* Intercede with the gracious Lord to 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 2: Christ’s soldiers were on earth like stars revolving around the Sun of Glory.* They dispelled the darkness of the passions* and generously poured out upon all people an abundance of grace,* granting an assurance of salvation to those who call upon them with faith. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land,* the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord always in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle 2 Corinthians 11:1-6 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 9:1-6 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Nov 1, 2024 - 🕂 Hieromartyr Theodore Romzha, Bishop of Mukachevo; 🕃 The Holy Wonderworkers and Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian.

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nov 1, 2024 Passing into Eternal Life of Metropolitan Andrei Sheptytsky (1944). Polyeleos Feast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. GREAT VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is taken. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Father and priest-martyr Theodore,* you took the yoke of Christ upon your shoulders,* and served Him faithfully,* courageously defeating the attacks of the faithless,* and entering eternal life;* there, you shine like a star, before the throne of the King above all who reign,* and the Lord over all who rule.* Pray to Him unceasingly for the salvation of our souls. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Father and priest-martyr Theodore,* you took the yoke of Christ upon your shoulders,* and served Him faithfully,* courageously defeating the attacks of the faithless,* and entering eternal life;* there, you shine like a star, before the throne of the King above all who reign,* and the Lord over all who rule.* Pray to Him unceasingly for the salvation of our souls. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Having gathered in faith today, we all praise you, O priest-martyr Theodore;* you were revealed to be a good shepherd, not retreating from the truth,* you were an honest overseer, and so we sing to you in faith:* O all-blessed one, the praise of truly orthodox Christians,* pray for us to the Lord that He have mercy on 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. Having gathered in faith today, we all praise you, O priest-martyr Theodore;* you were revealed to be a good shepherd, not retreating from the truth,* you were an honest overseer, and so we sing to you in faith:* O all-blessed one, the praise of truly orthodox Christians,* pray for us to the Lord that He have mercy on our souls. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Father and Priest-Martyr Theodore,* for the sake of the Church of God, and of the future life,* you entered the den of thieves without fear.* You were never afraid of ferocious enemies,* and although, coming to you, they caused you much affliction,* yet, praying and trusting in the Lord, you did His will.* You suffered even unto death, O long-suffering one, and now you dwell in the heavens,* and so, praising you faithfully, we honor you. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Father and Priest-Martyr Theodore,* for the sake of the Church of God, and of the future life,* you entered the den of thieves without fear.* You were never afraid of ferocious enemies,* and although, coming to you, they caused you much affliction,* yet, praying and trusting in the Lord, you did His will.* You suffered even unto death, O long-suffering one, and now you dwell in the heavens,* and so, praising you faithfully, we honor you. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Father and Priest-Martyr Theodore,* you steadfastly obeyed the commandments of Christ.* Your ascetic labor was great, O pillar of our Church,* and our hope in Heaven,* in whom faithful Christians place their trust.* For, you imitated Christ, always walking upon His way,* accepting and carrying the Cross,* and now you glorify Him together with the ranks of angels.* You are our praise in the Kingdom of God,* and the joy of those who honor you this day. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Father and Priest-Martyr Theodore,* you steadfastly obeyed the commandments of Christ.* Your ascetic labor was great, O pillar of our Church,* and our hope in Heaven,* in whom faithful Christians place their trust.* For, you imitated Christ, always walking upon His way,* accepting and carrying the Cross,* and now you glorify Him together with the ranks of angels.* You are our praise in the Kingdom of God,* and the joy of those who honor you this day. Tone 6, Glory…. Come, O Christians of the Carpathian lands.* Let us give praise to the wondrous adornment of our Church.* For, among the angels and choirs of saints in the heavens, there is joy;* and for the ferocious demon - embitterment.* For the good one completed the path, preserving the undivided faith unblemished.* He accepted the bright crown of victory from the hands of the almighty God.* And has settled in the radiant heavenly dwellings.* Therefore, in true faith and with fervent prayers, we run to you, O Theodore,* praying that you obtain from Christ God, salvation for our souls. 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 have mercy on our souls. Readings (1) Proverbs 10:6-7; 3:13-17; 8:6, 32-35; 8:4, 12, 14, 17; 8:5-9; 22:19-21; 15:4 (2) Proverbs 10:31-11:12 (3) Wisdom 4:7-15 Aposticha Tone 8 Let all the faithful come,* and give praise: to the one who participates in the Rejoicing Church,* to the unquenchable lamp, the incorruptible flower of Paradise, the Priest-Martyr Theodore;* to the defender of the unity of the Church, who suffered to the end and found the indelible treasure,* who, today, contemplates the glory of the consubstantial Trinity,* and is an intercessor for us sinners. Your priests shall clothe themselves with righteousness,* and Your venerable ones shall rejoice. You appeared as a servant of Christ God, O Priest-Martyr Theodore.* You suffered at the hands of the godless.* Today we run to you:* the well-spring of wisdom, for you recognized it and lived in piety;* today, give medicine from the Healer above all healers:* to us who honor you with faith. Precious in the sight of the Lord,* is the death of His venerable ones. Today the Land of Silver [fir trees] rejoices;* because it now has a communicant at the eternal banquet,* who taught God’s people,* to contemplate the brightness of the Thrice-radiant Light,* to achieve eternal life in unity.* Today, we see the good things of Jerusalem on high,* and within it an assiduous intercessor,* who prays for our souls. Tone 5, Glory... Ineffable and indescribable is the grace* that you received, O Priest-Martyr Theodore.* Today, glorifying you, we pray to God:* to forgive our sins, and accept us into His courts,* and show us His glory.* So that faithfully, with you, the all-blessed one, we may be satiated with divine food.* O Most Reverend Hierarch of Christ, worthy of praise,* make us worthy to be partakers in the Kingdom of Heaven. Now... O most pure Virgin,* you are the temple, the gate, the palace, and the throne of the King.* Christ, my Deliverer and Lord,* appeared through you to those who slumbered in darkness.* For He, as the Sun of Righteousness,* wished to enlighten those whom He created with His own hands* according to His own image.* Therefore, we beseech you, whom we always praise in song,* to unceasingly intercede with Christ that our souls may be saved;* for, as His mother, you can approach Him with the greatest boldness. Troparia Tone 4 You followed the apostles’ way of virtue, O priest-martyr Theodore,* and as a good Shepherd you protected the flock of Christ,* giving up your soul for it.* You, O blessed one, were killed by the godless,* thus entering eternal joy.* Adorned with wounds, O long-suffering one,* you received the crown of glory from the Lamb of God,* pray to Him for the salvation of our souls. Glory... Now... O Theotokos, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the Cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created man,* and saved our souls from death. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: You followed the apostles’ way of virtue, O priest-martyr Theodore,* and as a good Shepherd you protected the flock of Christ,* giving up your soul for it.* You, O blessed one, were killed by the godless,* thus entering eternal joy.* Adorned with wounds, O long-suffering one,* you received the crown of glory from the Lamb of God,* pray to Him for the salvation of our souls. Troparion, Tone 8: Holy selfless physicians and wonderworkers, Cosmas and Damian, visit our infirmities.* Freely you have received, freely give to us. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 3: As a flower longs for the sun, so you loved the sun of truth, Christ God,* as a zealous Shepherd, you taught the wisdom of virtue through-out the Carpathian lands* revealing the deepest humility of life:* like a rock of faith, you blocked the way of the godless,* as a precious pearl, you accepted suffering even to the shedding of your blood,* and so today with heartfelt reverence we call upon you, O priest-martyr Theodore,* that you intercede for our sinful souls before the Throne of the All-Merciful One. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Having received the grace of cures, you are granting health to those in need,* O glorious wonder-working physicians.* Through your visitation cast down the boldness of the enemy,* healing people by your miracles. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart understanding. verse: Hear these things, all you nations; give ear all you inhabitants of the world. (Psalm 48:4,2) Epistle Hebrews 13:7-16 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: The mouth of the just man shall meditate wisdom and his tongue shall speak judgment. verse: The law of his God is in his heart, and his steps will not falter. (Psalm 36:30,31) Gospel Luke 12:32-40 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 31, 2024 - Holy Apostles Stachys, Amplias and others with them. Holy Martyr Epimachus (250).

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 31, 2024 VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Throughout all the earth your proclamation of salvation has gone forth,* O glorious apostles of the Lord,* illumining the ends of all the earth with the radiance of grace,* and dispelling the gloom of deception.* Wherefore, make supplication, that He grant to our souls* peace and great mercy. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. The most godly Stachys, the preacher and apostle of Christ,* and the wondrous Apellius, Aristobulus and Urban,* Amplias and the divine Narcissus,* who preached the most Holy Trinity,* have enlightened the nations and delivered from bondage* all who bless them with faith. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O most radiant beacons of Christ, most pure vessels* who, through your faith, contained all the effulgence of the Spirit,* O pillars of the Church, all-glorious heavens* declaring the glory of God:* entreat Him that He grant to our souls* peace and great mercy. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You were shown to be a divine habitation* by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, O glorious Epimachus,* and, receiving from Him the ability to accomplish healings,* you richly imparted health to the sick who ever cry out:* O Jesus, Bestower of life,* You are the gladness, the glory and boast of Your martyrs. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. With boldness you preached the truth, O glorious one,* as a most lawful warrior of Christ,* unafraid of the bestial rage of him who judged you.* By your divinely inspired words you put to shame* him who commanded you to worship gods who do not exist, O athlete,* and preached to all our God who reigns over all. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. In that your feet are beautiful, they were adorned* to traverse the path of martyrdom unhindered,* and, finishing your course, you preserved the faith,* and have received a crown from the hand of the Master.* Entreat Him that those who with faith celebrate your all-honoured memory* may be delivered from corruption and tribulations. Tone 4, Glory… Now… I have been cast down to the ground,* I have been slain by sins, by passions, spiritual and bodily;* wherefore, I am covered with the darkness of despair.* But raise me up now, guiding me to the life of incorruption and to the homeland on high,* where the pure voice of those who keep festival is heard,* O all-holy Bride of God. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 6 Once, the apostles trolled the depths of the sea with nets, О Lord,* and likewise the heights of the kingdom for the sake of their doctrines.* In the first, they skilfully tested the unfathomable depths;* and in the other they attained through faith Your infinite bosom,* and they proclaimed Your timeless Son to the world.* By their supplications and those of all the saints,* have mercy on us. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Once, when Your disciples were tempest-tossed in a boat, О Christ,* they cried out: “O Master, save us! For we are perishing!” *And we now cry aloud:* We pray You, О our Saviour and Lover of mankind,* deliver us from our tribulations! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Your Cross was the invincible weapon of the martyrs, О Lord;* for they looked upon imminent death, foreseeing the life which is to come,* and they were strengthened by hope in You.* By their prayers have mercy upon us! Glory… Now… The eye of my heart longingly seeks you, O Lady;* disdain not my feeble sigh.* At the hour when your Son shall judge the world,* be my protection and helper. Troparia Tone 3 Holy apostles, intercede with the merciful God* to grant to our souls forgiveness of sins. Tone 4, Glory… Your martyr, Epimachus, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, save our souls. Now… O Virgin Mother of God,* we acknowledge that the Word of the Father, Christ our God,* was incarnate of you, the only pure one and the only blessed one.* Therefore, we sing to you a hymn of praise and we exalt you. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 3: Holy apostles, intercede with the merciful God* to grant to our souls forgiveness of sins. Troparion, Tone 4: Your martyr, Epimachus, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, save our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 4: You became branches of Christ’s vineyard, o wise ones,* bearing the grapes of good works,* and pouring forth for us* the wine of salvation.* Receiving it and filled with gladness,* we celebrate your precious memorial.* Therefore pray that we may be granted great mercy and forgiveness of sins,* O apostles of the Lord. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: As a bright and unerring star you appeared to the world* proclaiming with your rays the Sun, that is, Christ, O martyr, Epimachus,* and you have extinguished all error.* But to us you give light, praying without ceasing for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hands. (Psalm 18:5,2) Epistle 1 Thessalonians 5:1-8 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 Luke 11:47-12:1 Communion Hymn Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5):

Oct 30, 2024 - The Holy Martyrs Zenobius and Zenobia His Sister; Blessed Hieromartyr Olesky Zarytsky, priest.

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 30, 2024 VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. When You were crucified, О long-suffering Lord,* You shook the whole earth, making steadfast the hearts of the faithful;* wherefore, we hymn You and with love worship Your unapproachable power. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Spat upon and smitten on the cheek, О Saviour,* You smote the evil of the venomous foe,* taking away the fall which Adam endured,* who was abducted because of his transgression. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The sun was darkened, the whole earth quaked, and the stones split asunder,* when they beheld You suspended unjustly upon the Tree,* setting aside Your own will, О Saviour. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You dyed your vestments, Zenobius, with the blood of martyrdom!* Thus making them more adorned with grace and sanctity,* entering with them into the holy of holies, glorious one.* As a wise high priest, you were offered as a perfect and all-pure offering* and as an unblemished sacrifice* to Him who was sacrificed for you, most holy one. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Your body was burned, all-worthy hieromartyr Zenobius,* yet the inner beauty of your soul shone forth more brightly.* You are the glory of priests, Godly-minded one;* the boast of champions; a spring ever-flowing with wonders!* You put the demons to flight, divine warrior of Christ! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Your sister Zenobia was of one mind with you, all-wise one.* She voluntarily chose to suffer with you.* She endured with you a violent death,* and received with you the crown of victory,* entering with you, Zenobius, into the kingdom on high. Tone 6, Glory... Come, lovers of the martyrs!* Let us clap our hands today and form a choir!* Let us sing songs to commemorate the most pious contenders Zenobius and Zenobia!* They became champions of the Trinity,* and in the arena they courageously drowned the invisible enemy with their holy blood.* They have gloriously gained the crown of victory!* Therefore let us cry out to them:* O couple, holy before the Lord, both blessed and illumined,* intercede with the Saviour for the salvation of our souls! Now… Your pure Virgin Mother,* beholding the most iniquitous people* who unjustly nailed You to the Tree,* was wounded within, as Symeon foretold. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 6 Your Cross is life and help for Your people, О Lord;* and trusting therein, we hymn You, our God who was crucified in the flesh.* Have mercy on us! I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Your Cross, О Lord, has opened paradise to the race of mankind;* and delivered from corruption, we hymn You, our God who was crucified in the flesh.* Have mercy on us! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. They who suffered for Your sake, О Christ, endured many torments* and have received perfect crowns in the heavens.* May they pray on behalf of our souls. Glory… Now… Upon beholding our Life suspended upon the Tree,* the all-immaculate Theotokos cried aloud, maternally lamenting:* O my Son and my God, save those who with love hymn You! Troparia Tone 4 O Lord our God, Your holy martyrs* have deserved the crown of immortality* on account of their good fight.* Armed with Your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors* and crushed Satan’s dreadful might.* Through their supplications, O Christ our God, save our souls. Glory… Now… O Virgin, all immaculate Mother of Christ God,* a sword pierced your all-holy soul* when you saw your Son and God willingly crucified.* Therefore, O blessed One,* never cease to pray to Him* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 11:42-46 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Oct 29, 2024 - The Passing of Our Venerable Father Abraham, Archimandrite and Wonderworker of Rostov; The Holy Venerable-Martyr Anastasia of Rome; Our Venerable Father Abraham the Recluse.

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 29, 2024 VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 8 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O all-praised martyr and athlete,* having cast down carnal passions by abstinence,* you slew the serpent foe by your contest,* astonishing the angels with your suffering,* and causing men to rejoice in your ordeal, O adornment of monastics, vessel of virginity.* Pray that Christ God save and enlighten 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. What shall we name you, O glorious one?* Bride of Christ who shone forth in the virtues of virginity,* chosen daughter of the heavenly Jerusalem,* dweller and converser with angels,* one who delights in the noetic bridal chamber,* O much-suffering Anastasia, adornment of monastics.* Pray that Christ God save and enlighten our souls! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. You endured the extraction of your teeth,* the severing of your hands, feet, and breasts,* your limbs being cut off by iniquitous torturers;* yet you lifted up your eyes to the comeliness of your Bridegroom,* enduring pain in manner past nature.* O much-suffering Anastasia, incorrupt Bride of Christ,* pray that He save and enlighten our souls! Tone 8 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 father Abraham, being like to Abraham in spirit,* you moved from your father’s land, O blessed one,* rejecting the desires of the flesh;* and, joyfully enclosing your body in a small hut,* you furnished your soul with wings to fly to the heavens,* where you have manifestly found your life. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O venerable father Abraham,* who, in accordance with your name, acquired the soul of Abraham,* endured temptations, strengthened by divine love;* and united to God by love, you inherited the promised land,* adorned with the splendours of the virtues.* Wherefore, rejoicing, we celebrate your memory. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O venerable father Abraham,* by divine providence you drew forth the woman* who was cruelly devoured by the serpent through deception,* and who was dragged down into the pit of destruction;* and you presented her, saved, to God.* All marvelled at her repentance,* piously glorifying the all-good God. Glory… Now… Rejoice, bearer of the divine Light,* all-radiant lamp, O all-holy Bride of God!* You have shone the Light upon us from your all-pure womb,* illumining all the ends of the earth,* and bathing them with the rays of your grace.* Rejoice, O pure beginning of our salvation!* Rejoice, awesome rumour and report of them that hope in you! Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 6 At Your fearful Coming, O Christ, may we not hear the words: I know you not.* For though, O Saviour, we have put our trust in You,* from negligence we have not kept not Your commandments;* yet we entreat You, spare our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. I have no repentance and I have no tears.* Wherefore I entreat You, O Christ God:* before the end is here turn me back and grant me compunction,* that I may be delivered from the torments of Hades. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. О martyred passion-bearers,* citizens of heaven, who suffered on the earth,* you endured many torments.* By their supplications and entreaty, О Lord, preserve us all. Glory… Now… No one that flees to you, O most pure Virgin Theotokos,* departs from you ashamed;* for those that ask grace of you,* ever receives a gift for their profitable petition. Troparia Tone 4 Your lamb, Anastasia, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy save our souls. Tone 8, Glory… In you, O holy father Abraham, the faithful image of God shone forth,* for you carried your cross and followed Christ.* You taught by your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away;* and how to value the soul, for it is immortal. *Therefore, your soul is forever in happiness with the angels. Now… With hymns of praise let us, the faithful, exalt the Mother of God,* the solid foundation of our faith* and the precious gift to our souls:* Rejoice, O woman who contained in your womb the Rock of life!* Rejoice, O hope of the world and helper of those who are in trouble!* Rejoice, O bride and Virgin forever! DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Your lamb, Anastasia, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy save our souls. Troparion, Tone 8: The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O father,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh, which passes,* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* and so, O Venerable Abraham,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit Kontakion, Tone 2: We, all the faithful, have found your shrine to be a place of spiritual healing,* and we cry aloud to you: “O glorious virgin martyr, Anastasia,* pray unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us!” Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Divinely armed with purity of spirit* and mightily wielding the lance of unceasing prayers,* you overcame the powers of demons,* Venerable Abraham, pray without ceasing for all of us. 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 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: With expectation I have waited for the Lord, and He was attentive to me, and He heard my prayer. verse: He brought me out of the pit of misery and the mud of the swamp. (Psalm 39:2,3) Gospel Luke 11:34-41 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Oct 28, 2024 - 🕃 The Holy Martyr Parasceve of Iconium; The Holy Martyrs Terentius and Neonila; Our Venerable Father Stephen the Sabaite, Composer of Canons.

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 28, 2024 VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Rome presents you as a garden of sweet-smelling flowers, O much suffering Parasceve,* perfuming the thoughts of the faithful with the fragrance of the virtues,* and ever dispelling the stench of the passions with grace, O glorious one,* beauty of the martyrs, boast of virgins,* and abyss of miracles. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You have been given to all as glory beyond price by Christ our God,* having suffered in Rome; and, abiding therein, O glorious martyr,* you drive away from men the wickedness of the demons by your assistance.* Therefore, we all bless you and praise your holy sufferings today,* O much suffering Parasceve. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Preserved by the power of Christ, O most glorious Parasceve,* you ignored the pain of your body* and entered upon your struggles with faithful resolve,* paying no heed to your human weakness;* and, strengthened by hope, you have received illumination* with those who came before you. Tone 6 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Assembling, we, the faithful, praise you with love* and bless your struggles, O martyr Parasceve.* Entreat Christ your Bridegroom,* that by your supplications He deliver us* from misfortunes and perils. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Desiring to follow after Christ, your Bridegroom, O all-praised Parasceve,* you zealously drained the true cup of your blood,* like a melodious swallow giving voice* to a hymn to Christ God, the Creator of all,* for those who celebrate your memory. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Honouring the sufferings of Christ,* your parents made you the namesake of the day on which they are commemorated;* and when you reached maturity, you withstood sufferings, enduring wounds;* and, dancing in prison as in a splendid bridal chamber, you cried out:* “I shall never be separated from You, O Lord!* Send me Your aid, and save me in Your great mercy!” Tone 6, Glory… The Queen stood at the right and of the Saviour, as David sang;* and your soul, adorned as with vesture of gold,* you set before your Lord as a sacrifice,* and you offered Him the blood of your body like incense of sweet savour.* O all-praised martyr Parasceve,* pray for us to Christ God, the Master of all,* that He save our souls. Now… О Theotokos, who at the sound of the archangel’s voice* conceived in your womb the Word,* who with the Father and the Spirit is equally beginningless,* you have been revealed to be more exalted than the cherubim, seraphim, and thrones. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 6 At Your fearful Coming, O Christ,* may we not hear the words: I know you not.* For though, O Saviour, we have put our trust in You,* from negligence we have not kept not Your commandments;* yet we entreat You, spare our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. I have no repentance and I have no tears.* Wherefore I entreat You, O Christ God:* before the end is here* turn me back and grant me compunction,* that I may be delivered from the torments of Hades. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Your martyrs did not deny You, О Lord,* nor did they depart from Your commandments.* By their prayers have mercy on us. Tone 8, Glory… These things did Parasceve say to the tyrant,* “O ungodly and perverse governor, why do you rage against the Christians?* I have neither deprived you of a kingdom, nor destroyed your city,* yet you think to persuade me with foolish words.* I shall pay no heed to you or to your mindless words;* for I will not spare my flesh for my Christ, for He loves me* and shall bestow kingdom upon me. Now… Taking up the cry of the Archangel Gabriel, let us say:* Rejoice, O Mother of God, who has given birth to Christ,* the bestower of life upon the world! Troparia Tone 4 O all-wise and most lauded Parasceve, martyr of Christ,* having received the strength of faith and set aside your human weakness,* you vanquished the devil and put the tyrant to shame,* crying out and saying: “Come, cut my body asunder with your swords and burn me with fire;* for, rejoicing, I shall go to Christ my Bridegroom!”* Through her supplications, O Christ God, save our souls. Glory… Now… To the One who was reared in the Temple,* close to the Holy of Holies,* and who was full of faith, wisdom, and perfect virginity,* Gabriel, the captain and leader,* offered esteem and greetings from heaven when he said:* Rejoice, O blessed One! Rejoice, O glorified One!* The Lord is with you. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: As spiritual lambs, through martyrdom you came to Christ, the Lamb and Shepherd,* for you had finished the course and kept the faith.* And so, today, with spiritual joy, O wondrous women,* we celebrate your holy memory* while magnifying Christ. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: We celebrate the memory of Christ’s women martyrs* and with faith ask for help that we all may be saved from every tribulation.* And we cry: “Our God is with us,* and He has glorified these women as He willed!” 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 1 Thessalonians 2:20-3:8 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: With expectation I have waited for the Lord, and He was attentive to me, and He heard my prayer. verse: He brought me out of the pit of misery and the mud of the swamp. (Psalm 39:2,3) Gospel Luke 11:29-33 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Oct 27, 2024 - Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost. Octoechos Tone 6. Octoechos Tone 6. The Holy Martyr Nestor; The Holy Martyr Capitolina and Her Slave Erotheides.

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 27, 2024 GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY NIGHT Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 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. 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 had 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. 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. Let Your 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. 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. 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. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. By Your death and burial, O Lord,* You broke asunder the bonds of Hades;* and by Your resurrection from the dead,* You enlightened the whole world.* We, therefore, exclaim: Glory to You, O Lord! Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O wondrous sufferer Nestor,* you arrayed yourself in all the armour of Christ;* and, locked in mortal combat with Lyaeus, you destroyed him,* and with invisible arrows you brought down the invisible Belial and slayed him.* Wherefore, the Bountiful One has crowned you with a wreath of victory. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Strengthened with divine words, O wise Nestor,* with true courage you slayed the proud tormentor of the martyr, Demetrius;* and confessing the immortal God who died and harrowed hell,* you received an unjust death, O glorious one.* Rejoicing, you have inherited life everlasting. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You were a godly youth, shining forth in comeliness of body* and adorned with grace divine, O wise one, and invested with power.* Having cast down the power of Lyaeus by the power of the Almighty,* you suffered, rejoicing, and have been numbered among the choirs of sufferers.* Rejoicing with them, remember us. Tone 6, Glory… 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 have mercy on our souls. Aposticha Tone 6 O Christ our Saviour,* the angels in heaven sing the praises of Your resurrection;* make us on earth also worthy* to extol and glorify 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 our 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 own 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. Glory... 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 Tone 6 Angelic powers were upon Your tomb* and the guards became like dead men;* Mary stood before Your tomb* seeking Your most pure body.* You captured Hades without being overcome by it.* You met the Virgin and granted life.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory be to You! Tone 4, Glory… Your martyr, Nestor, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, save our souls. Now... O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created,* and saved our souls from death. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 6 Troparia, Tone 6 Angelic powers were upon Your tomb* and the guards became like dead men;* Mary stood before Your tomb* seeking Your most pure body.* You captured Hades without being overcome by it.* You met the Virgin and granted life.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory be to You! (2) Tone 4, Glory… Your martyr, Nestor, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, save our souls. Now... O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created,* and saved our souls from death. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 6 While the tomb lay open and Hades lamented,* Mary, cried to the Apostles who were in hiding saying:* “Come forth, you workers of the vineyard,* proclaim to the world the word of the Resurrection,* for the Lord is risen,* granting the world His great mercy!” Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. Mary Magdalene stood by Your tomb O Lord,* and mistaking You for the gardener,* weeping she cried aloud to You:* “Where have You hidden the Life eternal?* Where have You placed He who sits on the Cherubic Throne?* For those who were guarding Him have become as dead-men through fear.* Either give me my Lord or cry out with me:* O You who were numbered among the dead and have raised the dead,* glory be to You!” Glory… Now… Gideon foretold of your conception,* and David revealed your ineffable child-bearing, O Theotokos;* for the Word descended like a dew upon the fleece of your womb,* and you O Virgin full of grace,* like unto a holy and fertile earth,* budded forth without seed our salvation, Christ God. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 6 Life was laid in the tomb* and a seal was set upon the stone;* the soldiers stood guarding Christ like a sleeping King;* and having invisibly struck His foes the Lord arose. I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. Jonah foretold of Your tomb,* and Symeon revealed Your divine Arising, O immortal Lord;* for You descended as One dead into the tomb,* and having smashed the gates of Hades,* You arose without corruption as Master, for the salvation of all the world,* O Christ our God,* enlightening those lying in darkness. Glory… Now… O Virgin Theotokos, entreat your Son Christ our God,* who was willingly nailed upon the Cross,* and freed the world from deception,* that He have mercy upon our souls! Polyeleos Evoglitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 6 By Your voluntary and life-giving death, O Christ,* You shattered the gates of Hades,* and as God You opened to us the Paradise of old;* and by arising from the dead,* You delivered our lives from corruption. Gradual Hymns, Tone 6 Antiphon 1 Unto heaven I raise my eyes, even unto You, O Word;* have pity on me,* that I may live for You. Have mercy upon us who are filled with contempt O Word,* repairing Your broken vessels* that we may be found useful. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit is the cause of all salvation,* if He sees fit to breathe on one of His creatures,* He swiftly raises him from the things of this earth, and having given him wings,* makes him to flourish and raises him on high. Antiphon 2 If the Lord had not dwelt among us,* none could have withstood the attacks of the enemy,* for those who are victorious* are exalted by Him. Let not my soul be taken like a sparrow by their teeth, O Word;* Woe unto me!* How shall I, the lover of sin, be delivered from the power of the enemy? Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit all find divine inspiration,* goodness, understanding, peace, and blessing;* for He is equal in activity* to the Father and the Word. Antiphon 3 They that put their trust in the Lord look upon high* and are thus fearful to their foes* and wondrous to all mankind. Unto the pursuit of iniquities* the righteous stretch not the hands,* having You, O Saviour, as their helper. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit is sovereignty over all creation;* Him the armies of hosts above worship* and by everything that has breath below* is He worshiped. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 O Lord, stir up Your might* and come to save us. verse: O Shepherd of Israel, attend, You that lead Joseph like a sheep. Let everything that lives, Tone 6 Gospel Matthew 28:16-20 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 6 Ode 1 Irmos: Israel, marching on foot in the sea as on the dry land,* saw Pharaoh the pursuer overthrown in the deep,* and raised a triumphant shout:* Let us sing to God a hymn of victory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Good Jesus, with your arms stretched wide upon the cross, you have fulfilled in all things the Father’s good pleasure; therefore let us all sing to you a hymn of victory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Death, the end of life, as a slave under orders, in fear approaches you, the Lord of life, whereby you award to us life without end and resurrection. Glory… Now… Pure one, who beyond understanding received your Creator, of his own will made flesh in your seedless womb, you are declared to be in truth creation’s sovereign Lady. Katavasia: I shall open my mouth, and the Spirit will inspire it,* and I shall utter the words of my song to the Queen and Mother:* I shall be seen radiantly keeping feast* and joyfully praising her wonders. Ode 3 Irmos: None is holy but you, O Lord my God,* the one who is the Good;* you have exalted the horn of your faithful people,* and founded them on the rock of their confession of you. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Creation, seeing God crucified in the flesh, was dissolving in fear, but by the strong hand of the Crucified it was firmly held together. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Sorry death, destroyed by death, lies lifeless; unable to withstand the God-filled assault of Life, the strong one dies. And so to all is given resurrection. Glory… Now… O pure one, the wonder of your divine child-bearing surpasses the laws of nature: marvellous was your conceiving of God in your womb, and marvellous the birth and your abiding virginity. Katavasia: O Mother of God, living and plentiful fount,* give strength to those united in spiritual fellowship,* who sing hymns of praise to you:* and in your divine glory vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory. Ode 4 Irmos: Christ, my strength, my God, my Lord,* most fittingly your holy Church keeps festival,* singing, dancing, crying out with pure minds,* feasting in the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Truly, O Christ, the tree of life has blossomed for the cross, planted in the earth, fed with blood and water from your pure side, has put forth life for us. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. No more the serpent’s lying whisper: You shall be like God; for Christ, divine Creator of man’s nature, now has opened out before me, with none to hinder, the pathway of life. Glory… Now… Ever-virgin Mother of God, truly beyond speech and incomprehensible to heaven and to earth are the mysteries of your God-befitting child bearing. Katavasia: He who sits in glory upon the throne of the Godhead,* Jesus the true God, is come in a swift cloud* and with His sinless hands he has saved those who cry:* Glory to Your power, O Christ. Ode 5 Irmos: Shine with your divine splendour, I pray you, O you who are good,* on the souls of those who rise early to you* and long to know you, O Word of God,* as in truth the God who calls them back from sin’s deep darkness. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Now the Cherubim withdraw from me, and the flaming sword is turned back at sight of you, O Word of God, in truth the God who makes for the Thief the path to Paradise. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. I fear no longer the return to the dust, Lord Christ, for in your great mercy through your resurrection you have led me, forgotten, from the dust to the heights of incorruption. Glory… Now… O good Lady of the world, keep safe those who from the heart confess you God-bearer, for we have gained you, true Mother of God, for our invincible protection. Katavasia: The whole world was amazed* at your divine glory:* for you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock,* have held in your womb the God of all* and have given birth to an eternal Son,* who rewards with salvation all who sing your praises. Ode 6 Irmos: Watching life’s sea rising in the surging waves of temptations,* fast making for your calm harbour, I cry out to you:* Lead my life up from corruption,* O you of many mercies . Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Crucified, O Lord, by the nails which fastened you, you annulled the curse upon us; pierced in the side by the spear, you tore up the written scroll against Adam, and set the whole world free. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Deception tripped up Adam and brought him to the depth of Hell. But you, God and compassion by nature, came down to seek him and, lifting him up on your shoulders, raised him up with yourself. Glory… Now… All-holy Lady, who bore to mortal man his Lord and pilot, quieten the fearful and unresting tumult of my passions, and grant to my heart tranquillity. Katavasia: As we celebrate* this sacred and solemn feast of the Mother of God,* let us come, clapping our hands, O people of the Lord,* and give glory to God who was born of her. Kontakion With His life-giving hand* Christ our God, the Giver of life,* raised all the dead from the murky abyss* and bestowed resurrection upon humanity.* He is for all the Saviour,* the resurrection and the life, and the God of all. Ikos O Giver of life, we sing and we worship your cross and your burial, for you entered Hell, O deathless one, as God of all power, and raising the dead with yourself and shattering the gates of Hell, as God you demolished the might of death. Therefore with love and with longing we who are born of the earth praise you as risen from the dead, overthrowing the might of the all-destroying foe, raising up all who believe in you, delivering the world from the stings of the serpent and us from the wiles of the enemy, as the one who alone possesses the power. Devoutly we sing, therefore, the praises of your resurrection, for by this, as God of all, you have saved us. Ode 7 Irmos: As falling dew the angel made the furnace to the holy children,* and the command of God burned the Chaldeans;* and the tyrant was convinced, crying aloud:* Blessed are you, the God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The sun lamenting your Passion, O Lord, drew darkness around him and the light of the day was darkened over the whole of the earth, which cried aloud: Blessed are you, the God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. At your descent, O Christ, the underworld was clothed in splendour; our first father, filled with gladness of heart, sprang up, dancing and crying out: Blessed are you, the God of our fathers. Glory… Now… Through you, O Virgin Mother, light has risen and joy to all the inhabited earth, for you gave birth to God the Creator of all; ask him for us, All-pure, to send down to your faithful people great mercy. Katavasia: The holy children bravely trampled upon the threatening fire,* refusing to worship created things in place of the Creator,* and they sang in joy:* Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our Fathers. Ode 8 Irmos: Dew from the flames you shed on the holy ones,* burning thus with water the sacrifice of the righteous.* All things, O Christ, you bring about according to your holy will;* we highly exalt you throughout the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Envy has finished its work on the people of the Jews: of old the slayers of the prophets now they are slayers of God; they set you upon the cross, O Word of God, you whom we highly exalt throughout the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Christ, without leaving the courts of Heaven you came to Hell. Together with yourself you awakened the whole man, lying m corruption, and he highly exalts you now throughout the ages. Glory… Now… From light you conceived the light-giving Word, ineffably you gave him birth, and are glorified. For the Holy Spirit dwelt in you, O Maid, and therefore we praise you throughout the ages. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The Offspring of the Theotokos saved the holy children in the furnace.* He who was then prefigured has since been born on earth,* and He gathers all the creation to sing:* O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: No man can see God, on whom the ranks of angels dare not gaze;* but, through you, All-holy One, the Word made flesh is seen of mortal men.* Magnifying him with all the heavenly hosts,* we call you blessed. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Free from passions you remained, O Word of God, when you held converse with passions in the flesh. But having dealt to passion a Passion, you loosed man from his passions. For you alone are impassible and almighty, our Saviour. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Accepting the corruption of death, O Lord, you kept your body from tasting corruption, and your soul, life-giving, divine, was not left in Hell. But, as from sleep arising, you raised us up with yourself. Glory… Now… With pure lips we mortal men give glory to God the Father, to the Son with him without beginning, and we worship the inexpressible power, most glorious, of the All-holy Spirit; for you alone subsist almighty, undivided Trinity. Katavasia: Let every mortal born on earth,* radiant with light, in spirit leap for joy;* and let the host of the angelic powers* celebrate and honour the holy feast of the Mother of God,* and let them cry:* Rejoice! Pure and blessed Ever-Virgin, who gave birth to God. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light O faithful, let us gather with the disciples on the mountain in Galilee* to behold Christ as He says to them:* I have received all power over all things on high and those below.* Let us learn how He taught them to baptize all nations* in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,* and how He promised His disciples* to be present with them to the end of the world. Glory… Now… You rejoiced with the disciples, O Virgin Mother of God,* for you beheld Christ risen from the tomb on the third day as He said.* He appeared to His disciples, teaching them and revealing things sublime.* He commanded them to baptize the believers* in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit* so that we may believe in His resurrection* and that we may glorify you, O Theotokos. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 6 Your Cross, O Lord, is the life and resurrection of Your people,* and trusting in it we sing Your praises:* O our risen God, have mercy upon us. Your burial, O Master, opened Paradise to mankind,* and thus delivered from corruption we sing Your praises:* O our risen God, have mercy upon us. With the Father and the Spirit* let us hymn Christ risen from the dead,* and let us cry out to Him:* You are our life and resurrection, have mercy upon us. On the third day You arose from the tomb, O Christ, as it was written,* raising together with Yourself our Forefather;* therefore the race of mankind glorifies You, and hymns Your Resurrection. O Lord, great and fearful is the mystery of Your Resurrection;* for You came forth from the tomb* like a bridegroom from His marriage chamber,* overcoming death by death,* and redeeming Adam.* Wherefore Angels exult in heaven* and mankind here on earth* glorify Your compassion towards us, O Lover of mankind. O you wicked Judeans, where are the seals,* and the pieces of silver that you handed to the watchmen?* The treasure was not stolen, but has arisen as One almighty;* and you have been put to shame, who denied Christ,* the Lord of glory, who suffered and was buried* and arose on the third day;* Him let us worship and glorify. While the stone was sealed, how were you robbed, O Judeans?* Since you set guards and placed seals.* Yet while the doors were shut the King came forth.* Either bring forth His body, or worship Him as God,* and along with us chant:* Glory, O Lord, to Your Cross and holy Resurrection! The Myrrh-bearing Women came lamenting to Your life-bearing grave, O Lord,* carrying sweet smelling spices,* seeking to anoint Your most pure Body;* but instead they found a radiant Angel seated upon the stone,* and He addressed them saying.* Why do you weep for the One who poured forth life from His side for world’s sake?* Why do you seek the Immortal One as a mortal in a grave?* Rather, run, and tell His Disciples the universal joy of His glorious Resurrection;* with which You enlightened us also, O Saviour,* grant to us pardon and great mercy. Tone 1, Glory… The Lord appeared to His disciples* who had hastened to the mountain for His ascension from here below,* and they bowed before Him.* They learned of His universal power* and were sent to all the peoples of the earth* to announce His resurrection from the dead* and His return from earth to heaven.* He also promised to be with them always,* and His word is truth;* for He is Christ our God, the Saviour of our souls. 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 6: Angelic powers were upon Your tomb* and the guards became like dead men;* Mary stood before Your tomb* seeking Your most pure body.* You captured Hades without being overcome by it.* You met the Virgin and granted life.* O Lord, risen from the dead,* glory be to You! Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 6: With His life-giving hand* Christ our God, the Giver of life,* raised all the dead from the murky abyss* and bestowed resurrection upon humanity.* He is for all the Saviour,* the resurrection and the life, and the God of all. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 6: Undaunted patroness of Christians,* O steadfast intermediary with the Creator,* turn not away from the suppliant voices of sinners,* but in your kindness come to help us who cry out to you in faith.* Be quick to intercede, make haste to plead,* for you are ever the patroness of those who honour you, O Mother of God. 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) Epistle Ephesians 2:4-10 Alleluia, Tone 6 verse: He who lives in the aid of the Most High, shall dwell under the protection of the God of heaven. verse: He says to the Lord: You are my protector and my refuge, my God, in Whom I hope. (Psalm 90:1,2) Gospel Luke 8:26-39 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Oct 26, 2024 - 🕁 The Holy and Glorious Great-Martyr Demetrius, from Whose Tomb Myrrh Streams Forth.

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 26, 2024 All-Night Vigil Feast. A day when the faithful are highly encouraged to participate in the Divine Liturgy. GREAT VESPERS WITH LYTIA ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is taken. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! O glorious martyr Demetrius,* like a bright star you glisten forever for your fatherland* because you always protect it from destruction at the hands of enemies,* and you deliver it from every strife and menace.* Therefore, O blessed one, your people annually observe your memory* and celebrate with joy, * and with faith and love they extol the Lord who glorified you. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. O glorious martyr Demetrius,* like a bright star you glisten forever for your fatherland* because you always protect it from destruction at the hands of enemies,* and you deliver it from every strife and menace.* Therefore, O blessed one, your people annually observe your memory* and celebrate with joy, * and with faith and love they extol the Lord who glorified you. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O Demetrius, martyr and sufferer of the Passion of Christ,* your miracles shine upon the world like the sun.* Therefore, all of us are filled with joy as we remember them,* and in faith we fittingly celebrate.* Since you have favour with the Lord,* pray that He may save your servants from corruption. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Your side was pierced by a spear for the sake of the Saviour* whose side had been pierced on the cross.* By your wounds you lovingly resembled Him, O Martyr.* You showed to all that you were an unconquerable witness.* Thereby, your torturer was also wounded and made helpless* when he was the instrument of the test of your faith,* O Demetrius, great sufferer for Christ. Tone 8 From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O, what a great marvel!* There is joy in heaven and on earth,* for this day glistens in the remembrance of the martyr Demetrius.* He is crowned by the praises of angels and by the hymns of all.* O, how he suffered and how well he struggled!* Through him the Evil One fell and was conquered for Christ. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O, what a great marvel!* There is joy in heaven and on earth,* for this day glistens in the remembrance of the martyr Demetrius.* He is crowned by the praises of angels and by the hymns of all.* O, how he suffered and how well he struggled!* Through him the Evil One fell and was conquered for Christ. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O, what a great marvel!* It is the most radiant of wonders.* It is more brilliant than the sun.* Demetrius shines upon the ends of the earth at all times.* He is filled with the radiance of the Light that never grows dim* and beautified by the Light which never sets.* By his rays, the clouds of foreign foes have been dispersed,* illnesses have been cast out, and demons conquered. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O, what a great marvel!* Having been slain for the sake of Christ, O thrice-blessed Demetrius,* you have always manifested yourself to be a two-edged sword,* humbling the exaltations of the enemies* and bringing to naught the intrigues of the demons.* Let us cry out to him:* O Demetrius, protect us at all times,* for in faith and love we venerate you. Tone 6, Glory… Today the universal feast of the martyr summons us.* Come, therefore, O lovers of feasts,* let us celebrate his memory in splendour and say:* Rejoice, for you overcame the snares of the enemy* by the might given to you by the one God.* Rejoice, for you suffered wounds by the thrusts of a sword,* and thus spiritually depicted for us the blessed passion of Christ.* O Demetrius, O inspiration of martyrs,* implore Him that we be delivered from visible and invisible enemies,* and that our souls may be saved. 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) Isaiah 63:15-19; 64:1-9; (2) Jeremiah 2:2-12; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15 At the Lytia Tone 1 Rejoice in the Lord, O city of Thessalonica!* Adorn yourself with faith and leap and dance with joy!* Like a treasure, hold onto Demetrius,* the glorious Martyr and witness to the truth.* Be full of delight at the sight of his miraculous healings;* look as he repels the foreign invaders; * and thankfully cry out to the Savoir:* O Lord, glory to You! O city of Thessalonica, together with everyone,* let us brighten this day with beautiful hymns,* and let us glorify the martyr’s deeds* because the great martyr Demetrius is deserving of praise.* He courageously repelled the onsets of demons.* He fervently came into the arena and gloriously won a victory.* He is praying to the Savoir that our souls may be saved. Tone 2 O wise martyr Demetrius,* Christ our God has placed your spotless spirit in the abode on high,* for you were a defender of the Trinity.* And unbreakable as a diamond,* you courageously suffered martyrdom in the arena.* Your holy side was pierced, O all-precious one,* just like Him who was pierced on the cross* for the salvation of the whole world.* You received the power of healing,* and you freely grant healings to all.* We, therefore, fittingly celebrate your dormition today,* and we glorify you as you glorified the Lord. Tone 5, Glory… Let us hasten with faith and love;* let us shout with festive joy; * let all of us clap our hands on this feast of our leader.* May the heavenly hosts be happy* because he was pierced in behalf of Christ the Lord* who was pierced by a spear,* and because he destroyed the boldness of the arrogant Leo.* May the heavens and the sea be astounded* by the glorious witness given by the great luminary.* May they praise him who restrains the young and leads those in danger.* He enriches the lowly and brings good fortune;* he wins in battle and sails with those at sea.* He is a staff in old age and our own steadfast defender.* So let us pray to him and say:* O glorious Demetrius, be our leader, rescue us from every anguish,* and save your servants by your prayers. Now… Let us sound the trumpets of praise,* for the Queen of all, the Virgin Mother,* looks down from on high to crown with blessings those who honour her.* Let kings and leaders come together* to praise the Queen who gave birth to the King.* Because of his love for all,* He released those who had been condemned to death.* O shepherds and teachers, * come together and praise the most pure Mother of the Good Shepherd.* She is the lampstand that gleams like gold,* the light-bearing cloud more spacious than the heavens,* the living tabernacle and golden urn containing the manna,* the sealed door of the Word and refuge of all Christians.* Let us praise her with God-inspired songs, saying:* O palace of the Word,* make us lowly ones worthy of the kingdom of heaven,* for nothing is impossible through your intercession. Aposticha Tone 2 The ground is quaking in fear of your anger.* The hills and mountains are trembling, O Lord.* But look upon us with compassion.* Do not shower your wrath upon us, * but show mercy to the work of your hands.* Free us from the terrifying menace of the earthquake,* since You are gracious and the Lover of Mankind. In Tone 6 Having created the earth, You look upon it and it quakes. You are awesome, O Lord, and who can bear your just anger?* Or who will implore You?* Who will restrain You, O Gracious One,* in behalf of the sinful people who are without hope?* The heavenly ranks, the Angels, and Principalities,* Powers, Thrones, Dominions, and Seraphim* are crying out to You in our behalf:* Holy, holy, holy, are You, O Lord!* Because of your merciful compassion,* do not reject the work of your hands, O Gracious One,* but save the city which is in danger. You shook the ground, and You made it quake. The Ninevites heard the threat about their destruction* by an earthquake because of their sins.* The rising up of Jonah from the whale was a sign of intercession.* He pleaded for them to repent.* Just as You accepted in generosity* the lamentation of your people with their children and animals,* for the sake of your rising on the third day,* also be merciful and spare us who have been chastised. Tone 8, Glory… Your sublime and spotless soul,* O ever-commemorated Demetrius,* has the heavenly Jerusalem as an abode.* Its walls were painted by the most pure hands of the invisible God.* This beautiful church on earth* also contains your very precious body which had suffered so much,* It is a treasure of miracles that cannot be stolen away,* and it is a medicine for illnesses* whenever we hasten to draw upon its healing.* O all-praiseworthy one,* protect from threatening destruction the city which extols you,* for you have found favour before Christ who glorified you. Now… O Virgin, you have never known wedlock,* yet you conceived God in the flesh* in a manner which words can never describe.* You thus became the Mother of God on high.* O immaculate Lady, receive the supplication of your servants* and grant us the cleansing of our sins.* Accept now our prayers and beseech God to save all of us. Troparia Tone 3 In you, O martyr Demetrius,* the world has discovered a champion in its travails,* for you have routed the nations* and so, as you smashed the pride of Lyaeus*, encouraging Nestor to struggle,* pray to Christ our God to grant great mercy to our souls. (3) DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 3: In you, O martyr Demetrius,* the world has discovered a champion in its travails,* for you have routed the nations* and so, as you smashed the pride of Lyaeus*, encouraging Nestor to struggle,* pray to Christ our God to grant great mercy to our souls. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: With the streams of your blood, O Demetrius,* God, who gave you invincible strength,* has dyed the Church in royal crimson* and preserved your city invulnerable* for you are its fortification. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle 2 Timothy 2:1-10 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just man shall flourish like the palm tree; and he shall grow like the cedar in Lebanon. verse: They who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish the courts of our God. (Psalm 91:13,14) Gospel John 15:17-16:2 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):

Oct 25, 2024 - The Holy Martyrs and Notaries Marcian and Martyrius.

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 25, 2024 Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Let all the groves of trees rejoice,* beholding the most precious Tree which was made joyous by the suffering of the Master,* shining forth grace like a flame of fire,* pouring forth gifts upon all like water,* and enlightening the thoughts of our souls,* washing away infirmities and driving away invisible passions,* and manifestly vanquishing foreign nations,* ever granting to the faithful victories, blessing and great mercy. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Worshipping with faith the place where the feet of the Lord stood,* as the prophet said, let us glorify Christ who was crucified, and with Himself crucified our transgressions,* who abolished the curse which originated with a tree,* and reconciled with the Father those who had withdrawn far from Him through evil thoughts;* and venerating the nails of his hands and feet, the spear and the reed,* the sponge and the crown of thorns, and the insults and mockery,* and all else He endured, let us venerate them with honour,* for by them we are saved. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Let us crucify all our members with Christ, and let us die to the world;* and desiring to walk in the footsteps of Christ, the Ruler of this world,* let us take His divine Cross upon our shoulder* by rejecting the uprisings of the flesh and the evil lusts which draw our souls into sin,* thinking to stand before Him and to behold Him nailed to the Cross,* breathing His last and surrendering His soul into the hands of the Father,* that we may never be separated from Him. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Having completed the course and kept the faith,* Marcian and Martyrius,* you have been wreathed with a crown of martyrdom!* You are unshakable pillars of the Church,* breasts flowing with wholesome milk,* beacons and shining pearls,* you have enlightened creation with the splendour of your piety! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You were godly twins,* sharing a single heart and mind!* You destroyed the division of Arius,* by teaching worship of the unoriginate Son, co-eternal with the Father,* and worship of the Spirit:* the Trinity in Unity and Unity in Trinity,* one Essence in three undivided Persons! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You showed yourselves to be followers of Paul,* the preacher of holy truths:* You were like him in zeal; one with him in mind and heart:* You drowned the adversaries with your outpoured blood* drying up the torrent of wicked heresies!* You were revealed, Marcian and Martyrius,* to be rivers of true worship watering the Church of Christ! Tone 1, Glory… You were disciples and followers* of the one who preached and confessed the consubstantial Trinity.* You were persecuted with him, blessed ones,* for the sake of the Trinity.* You preferred death by the sword to blasphemous heresy.* Since God has adorned you with crowns of martyrdom* and you have received boldness before Him,* pray that those who honour your memory may be delivered from misfortunes! Now… “Lifted up upon the Tree, О my most sweet Child,* and having tasted gall and vinegar, You sweetened the bitter taste of Adam of old;* wherefore, as the righteous Judge, О Master who arose as Almighty,* sweeten me with Your healing Passion,”* said the Virgin, weeping. Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 5 О Lord, in the time of Moses the Prophet,* the form of Your Cross was once precisely revealed, and vanquished Your enemies;* and now, possessed of that same Cross, we ask Your help:* Strengthen Your Church, for the sake of Your great mercy, О Lover of mankind! I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Though a tree visible by nature, Your Cross, О Christ,* is invested with divine power;* and tangibly revealed to the world,* it wondrously and noetically works our salvation.* Bowing down before it, we glorify You, О Saviour.* Have mercy on us! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Despising all the things of earth, and manfully braving tortures,* you did not fail to attain your divine hopes,* but became heirs to the kingdom of heaven, О most lauded martyrs.* And as you have boldness before God who is the Lover of mankind,* ask peace for the world and great mercy for our souls. Tone 3, Glory… Marcian and Martyrius* conquered heresies with the shield of faith,* enlightening the world with the light of orthodoxy!* They are champions of the Trinity and spiritual beacons of the Church!* Obedient to Paul, the equal of the apostles,* they cast down the division of Arius and Nestorius,* refuting also the mingling of Sabellius and Severus.* They theologized about the Unity in Trinity,* the God Who was incarnate of the Virgin!* The most blessed ones preached to all one Christ in two natures!* Now that they have received crowns of victory from heaven,* these heralds of God pray for great mercy for our souls! Now… The all-immaculate one, beholding You lifted up upon the Tree,* cried out, weeping maternally: “O my supremely good Christ, my most beloved Son!* How have the iniquitous assembly lifted You up upon the Cross?” Troparia Tone 1 O Marcian and Martyrius, a pair of martyrs worthy of each other,* have crushed the infamy of Arius.* Obeying Paul the teacher of accurate statements,* they taught that the Son is consubstantial with the Father and the Spirit.* They died under the sword and have joined Christ.* They intercede with Him to save our souls. Glory… Now… O pure One, we have obtained your protection.* Through your intercession, we have been kept from harm* and surrounded at all times with the grace of your Son’s cross.* Therefore, we exalt you with great devotion. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: O Marcian and Martyrius, a pair of martyrs worthy of each other,* have crushed the infamy of Arius.* Obeying Paul the teacher of accurate statements,* they taught that the Son is consubstantial with the Father and the Spirit.* They died under the sword and have joined Christ.* They intercede with Him to 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 4: You lived piously since your childhood, O Marcian and Martyrius,* and you came to crush Arius.* You preserved the teachings of the faith intact* by following the wise teacher, Paul.* You have found life in his company as defenders of the Trinity. 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 1 Thessalonians 2:14-19 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 11:23-26 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Oct 24, 2024 - The Holy Martyr Aretas and those with him.

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 24, 2024 VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Traversing all the earth, you sowed divine teachings,* bearing the Word alone as a lamp and all riches, О disciples of the Lord;* and thereby you put emperors and torturers to shame,* and rent asunder the vain arguments of the philosophers and rhetors as though they were spiders’ webs,* calling all to recognize the Creator,* and abolishing the vain worship of demons.* Wherefore, I pray that, by your prayers,* you deliver me from those who are irrational. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. By your supplications to God, deliver us all from the turmoil of temptations,* the cruel deception of shameful heresies, the evil counsel of the demons,* the fire which burns in the absence of light,* the everlasting worm, the gnashing of teeth, and all other torments;* and beseech Him that, for the sake of your temperance and toils,* we may receive the reward of the virtues,* the inheritance of the kingdom of heaven, and great mercy. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Clearly receiving all the effulgence,* and the reflected light of the ineffable dispensation of the Trinity,* insofar as human nature can so do,* the all-praised twelve perfectly manifested themselves, bringing with them the seventy-two,* and enlightening the ends of the world, darkened by the darkness of wicked heresy,* pray to Christ that He grant the world great mercy. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You opposed your courage, most praised Martyr Arethas,* to the savagery of evil men!* By the grace of God, you were shown to be victorious!* Glorious one, you brought to Christ,* a choir of martyrs formed by soldiers of all ages and races! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You formed a beautiful choir, most glorious Arethas* of your holy fellow martyrs!* You struggled with them, completing the good race* and the good fight of your courageous contest! Therefore entreat Christ that He may grant our souls peace and great mercy! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The godly minded virgin martyrs* enkindled by the love of Christ,* did not heed the weakness of their nature.* Manifestly strengthened by the power of God* they trampled down the delusion of the enemy!* They were not afraid of the pain of torture* and did not fear the fiery furnace! Tone 4, Glory… Today with unity of mind and with hymns, faithful,* let us honour the glorious chief shepherd Arethas and his companions!* He denounced the evil one and shed his blood in confession of Christ!* Therefore a pillar of fire consumed the face of the earth* in reproof of the ungodliness of the enemy!* Therefore, Christ God, as You strengthened the athletes for Your glory,* by the prayers of Your saints,* preserve us also from temptations and tribulations,* for You are the Master of all! Now… O all-pure one, who have contained the infinite God in your womb* who, in His love for mankind, has become a man,* and has received our substance from you, deifying it:* disdain me not who am now sorrowing, but quickly take pity* and free me from diverse enemies and the malice of the evil one. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 5 As eyewitnesses to the mysteries of the Saviour, О disciples,* you preached the Invisible One who has no beginning, saying:* In the beginning was the Word.* You were not created before the angels, nor were you taught of men,* but by the wisdom of the Most High.* Wherefore, as you have boldness, pray on behalf of our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Together let us praise the apostles of the Lord with hymns,* for, having arrayed themselves in the armour of the Cross,* they abolished the delusion of the demons* and were revealed to be crowned victors.* By the supplications of them and all the saints, О God, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Your souls filled with insatiable love, О holy martyrs,*you did not deny Christ;* and enduring the diverse wounds of sufferings,* you cast down the audacity of the tormentors;* and having preserved the Faith intact and unharmed,* you were translated to the heavens.* Wherefore, as you have boldness before Him, ask that He grant us great mercy. Tone 8, Glory… Understanding beforehand the wicked and evil plan of unbelieving men,* you struggled to suffer for Christ with a bold spirit!* You struggled for Him Who in days of old in the time of the law* saved from Egypt through the wilderness* those who condemned Him to the Cross!* So now also, those who were infected with unbelief,* went from words to deeds as they condemned you to the fire.* You suffered with strong patience and unity of mind,* showing yourselves to be great among martyrs!* Since you have boldness before God,* entreat Him that our souls may be delivered from sins! Glory… Now… I flee to your protection, O holy Virgin Theotokos,* for I know that through thee I shall obtain salvation;* for you are able to help me, O pure one. Troparia Tone 1 Opposing the vile king and reproaching his disbelief in Christ,* this martyr acted bravely and suffered torture and death.* For this the angels praise you, O Arethas, and those who suffered with you,* and generations of the faithful will always bless you* as a sure intercessor for our souls. Glory… Now… You have borne the fire of the Godhead without being burned;* you have given birth to the Lord, the Source life,* O Mother of God and woman full of grace,* save all those who exalt you. DIVIKNE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Opposing the vile king and reproaching his disbelief in Christ,* this martyr acted bravely and suffered torture and death.* For this the angels praise you, O Arethas, and those who suffered with you,* and generations of the faithful will always bless you* as a sure intercessor for 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 4: Today is the truly splendid feast of the martyrs.* an intercession of happiness is ours today.* Let us celebrate this feast and bless the Lord in heaven. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle 1 Thessalonians 2:9-14 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 11:14-23 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Oct 23, 2024 - 🕃 The Holy Apostle and Brother of the Lord in the Flesh James.

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 23, 2024 VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Come, O divinely wise,* and in sacred manner let us honour the memory of the brother of God;* for, taking up the yoke of Christ with zeal,* he showed himself to be a preacher of the goodness of His Gospel and kingdom,* and persuades us of His ineffable providence.* Wherefore, through him, O Almighty One, grant us cleansing. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Come, O divinely wise,* and in sacred manner let us honour the memory of the brother of God;* for, taking up the yoke of Christ with zeal,* he showed himself to be a preacher of the goodness of His Gospel and kingdom,* and persuades us of His ineffable providence.* Wherefore, through him, O Almighty One, grant us cleansing. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The proclamation of your words has catechized all the ends of the world;* thereby are we enlightened for every manner of divine virtue* and are guided by faith to acknowledge the Holy Trinity.* Wherefore, we beseech you, as a hierarch:* Pray to Jesus, who loves mankind, that He save our souls. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. The proclamation of your words has catechized all the ends of the world;* thereby are we enlightened for every manner of divine virtue* and are guided by faith to acknowledge the Holy Trinity.* Wherefore, we beseech you, as a hierarch:* Pray to Jesus, who loves mankind, that He save our souls. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Perceiving your manner of life from afar, O James,* Christ, who loves mankind, the All-wise One who sees all things,* receiving you, ordains you as an instructor of the sacred mysteries for the people of Jerusalem* and a priest to perform the ineffable sacred mysteries.* Beseech Him now that our souls be saved. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Perceiving your manner of life from afar, O James,* Christ, who loves mankind, the All-wise One who sees all things,* receiving you, ordains you as an instructor of the sacred mysteries for the people of Jerusalem* and a priest to perform the ineffable sacred mysteries.* Beseech Him now that our souls be saved. Tone 6, Glory… With the blood of martyrdom you adorned your priesthood, O hieromartyr and apostle;* for standing forth on the pinnacle of the temple,* you proclaimed God the Word to be the Creator of all that exists.* Wherefore, cast down by the Jews, you were vouchsafed the mansions of heaven, O James, brother of God,* entreat Christ God that our souls be saved. Now… Your pure Virgin Mother,* beholding the most iniquitous people* who unjustly nailed You to the Tree,* was wounded within, as Symeon foretold. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 1 All of us, the multitudes of the pious, celebrating the sacred feast now with joy,* exclaim with loud voices, faithfully praising the brother of God, the disciple of the Lord,* in psalms and hymnody;* for he ever prays that we be saved. Their proclamation has gone out into all the earth and their words to the ends of the universe! You were shown to be the Word’s brother in the flesh by His own desire, O wise one,* His disciple and an eye-witness to divine mysteries,* having fled with Him to Egypt, with Joseph and the Mother of Jesus.* With them pray that we be saved. The heavens are telling the glory of God and the firmament proclaims His handiwork! The choir of the apostles chose you to be the first bishop in holy Sion for Christ our Benefactor,* in that you are His kinsman and brother according to the flesh, His companion* and the heir to His footsteps, O James. Tone 8, Glory… You were the brother and successor of Christ, the Chief Shepherd,* and He puts you forward among the apostles.* You loved Him for whom you died, and were not daunted by torture, O glorious James.* Entreat Him unceasingly that He save our souls. Now… O Mistress, accept the supplications of your servants,* and deliver us from all want and grief. Troparion Tone 2 O holy James, as a disciple of the Lord, you received the gospel;* as a martyr, you displayed an unyielding will.* As a brother of the Lord, you have special power with Him;* as a pontiff, you have the right of intercession.* Intercede, therefore, with Christ our God that He may save our souls. Glory… Now… O Virgin and all-glorious Mother of God,* we sing to you a hymn of praise,* for Hades has been destroyed by your Son’s cross;* Death has been put to death,* and we, the dead, have been made to rise and become worthy of life.* We have obtained paradise, the original bliss.* Therefore, we glorify you by giving thanks to Christ our God,* for He alone is almighty and all-merciful. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: O holy James, as a disciple of the Lord, you received the gospel;* as a martyr, you displayed an unyielding will.* As a brother of the Lord, you have special power with Him;* as a pontiff, you have the right of intercession.* Intercede, therefore, with Christ our God that He may 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 4: At the completion of the time,* God the Word, the only-begotten Son of the Father, came down to us.* He established you, O admirable James,* as the first shepherd and teacher of Jerusalem,* a faithful steward of the mysteries of faith.* Therefore, we honour you as an apostle. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world. verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hand. Epistle 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: The heavens shall confess Your wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints. verse: God is glorified in the assembly of the saints. Gospel Luke 11:9-13 Communion Hymn Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5):

Oct 22, 2024 - Holy Father John Paul II, Pope; The Holy Wonderworker and Equal-to-the-Apostles Abercius, Bishop of Hieropolis; Holy Seven Youths of Ephesus.

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 22, 2024 VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Woe to me who have angered You, my merciful God and Lord!* How many times have I promised to repent, О Christ,* and have been found to be a senseless liar?* I have soiled my first baptismal raiment, and have forsaken my covenant with You,* and this second commandment, which I confessed before You in the presence of men and angels,* have I also abandoned, clad in a lamentable form.* Setting this aside, О Saviour, leave me not to perish utterly. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. What answer shalt you find on the day of judgment, О wretched soul?* Who will deliver you from condemnation to everlasting fire and other torments?* No one, if you yourself do not placate the Compassionate One,* forsaking your evil deeds and acquiring a right pleasing life,* every day weeping over your countless transgressions,* which you commit at every hour in deed, word, and thought,* and beseeching Christ to grant you the complete forgiveness of them. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Let sinful habit not seize me, dragging me down, О Saviour,* nor let the demon, which ever wages war on me and subjects me to his will, gain dominance over me;* but rescue me from his dominion with Your mighty hand,* О Almighty One who loves mankind, and reign within me.* Grant that I may be wholly Yours,* and living according to Your will, О Word, may find rest in You,* and cleansing, salvation, and great mercy for myself. Tone 2 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Completely consecrated to God, O holy Abercius,* you were seen to be a keeper of His divine commandments.* Having received grace from on high,* you turned away various sicknesses from men,* expelled demons and cast down their altars.* O blessed one, you implanted the knowledge of God* in those whom, to their shame, ignorance had once placed in danger. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. With the light of your divine teachings, O father Abercius,* you brought an end to the night of the many false gods.* You rose like the dawn, making children of the day* of those who once lay in darkness,* as you worked great miracles among them.* Thus, in faith, we celebrate your sacred memory as a feast,* and we all sing together a hymn in your honor. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. In the same vessel, O Abercius,* you miraculously joined oil wine and another substance,* so that they could be all served from it,* although by divine grace they were kept separate without being mixed.* By your prayer, you caused a spring of warm water* to flow that healed the sicknesses* of those who draw near to you in faith, O holy Abercius, calling you blessed. Tone 3, Glory… Venerable hierarch and blessed father,* servant of Christ and wonderworker, Abercius,* you shone with a prophetic life* and were adorned with the charisms of the Apostles.* Now you ceaselessly celebrate the Savior in heaven;* entreat Him, together with the angels,* that our souls be saved from all the dangers that threaten them. Now… О blessed Mary, divinely joyous Maiden, cloud of the never-waning Light:* Shine the light of repentance upon me who am mindlessly stuck fast in the darkness of sin;* and by your supplications deliver me* from the fire of Gehenna and the unremitting darkness, О most pure Virgin,* and show me to share in the never-setting day,* for I flee beneath your protection. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 5 O Lord, I cease not to sin,* nor do I perceive Your love for mankind which You have granted me.* Vanquish my lack of discernment, O You who alone are good,* and have mercy upon me. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. O Lord, from reverent fear of You I tremble,* yet I cease not from committing sins.* Who, when called to trial, does not fear the judge?* Or who, desiring to be healed, angers the physician, as I do?* O longsuffering Lord, have compassion upon my weakness,* and have mercy upon me. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Having put on the breastplate of faith and armed themselves with the image of the Cross,* Your saints, О Lord, manfully gave themselves over to torments* and cast down the pride and deception of the devil.* As God almighty, send down peace upon the world through their entreaties,* and great mercy upon our souls. Glory… Now… Assuage the sufferings of my much-sighing soul,* O you that wipe every tear from the face of the earth;* for you banish the sufferings of mankind,* and dispel the sorrows of the sinful.* For in you do we all have our hope and confirmation,* O most holy Virgin Mother. Troparia Tone 4 The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop, Abercius* Intercede with Christ, our God,* for the salvation of our souls. Glory… Now… Let us poor sinners hasten with fervour to the Mother of God;* let us humbly kneel before her and say from the depth of our hearts:* O Lady, be kind to us and help us.* Hasten, for we are perishing under a multitude of sins.* Do not turn away your servants empty-handed,* for you are their only hope and protection. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: The truth of your deeds made you for your flock a rule of faith* and an image of meekness,* a teacher of continence.* And so you gained the heights through humility,* riches through poverty,* father and bishop, Abercius* Intercede with Christ, our God,* for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: O thunder of justice, spiritual trumpet,* planter of faith and destroyer of heresies,* servant of the Trinity, great hierarch Abercius,* forever standing in the company of the angels,* pray without ceasing for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart understanding. verse: Hear these things, all you nations; give ear all you inhabitants of the world. (Psalm 28:4,2) Epistle 1 Thessalonians 1:6-10 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: The mouth of the just man shall meditate wisdom and his tongue shall speak judgment. verse: The law of his God is in his heart, and his steps will not falter. (Psalm 36:30,31) Gospel Luke 11:1-10 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 21, 2024 - 🕃 Our Venerable Father Hilarion the Great.

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 21, 2024 VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Being meek of soul and heart, when you were wounded with divine love* and submitted to withdraw from the tumults of life through sacred ascents,* then, armed with the power of the Cross,* you advanced upon the demons waging battle, O most blessed one,* and fashioned for yourself a diadem of victory;* and now you dwell in the splendours of the saints.* With them ask for us enlightenment and peace,* and deliverance from offenses. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Being meek of soul and heart, when you were wounded with divine love* and submitted to withdraw from the tumults of life through sacred ascents,* then, armed with the power of the Cross,* you advanced upon the demons waging battle, O most blessed one,* and fashioned for yourself a diadem of victory;* and now you dwell in the splendours of the saints.* With them ask for us enlightenment and peace,* and deliverance from offenses. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. With the luminous beams of your healings* thou all-gloriously enlightened the world, O right glorious father,* dispelling the most profound darkness of infirmities.* Wherefore, we all acknowledge you to be another sun,* the confirmation of monastics, who by the divine Spirit guides those who are saved.* And we now celebrate your radiant and saving memory, O Hilarion,* receiving remission of transgressions through you. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. With the luminous beams of your healings* thou all-gloriously enlightened the world, O right glorious father,* dispelling the most profound darkness of infirmities.* Wherefore, we all acknowledge you to be another sun,* the confirmation of monastics, who by the divine Spirit guides those who are saved.* And we now celebrate your radiant and saving memory, O Hilarion,* receiving remission of transgressions through you. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. By abstinence, O father,* you made the carnal passions subject to your reason-endued soul,* and, adorned with wings of dispassion, O venerable one,* you have received the grace to heal, to expel evils spirits and to save those who have recourse to you.* Wherefore, the choirs of monastics bless you, O right glorious one,* and all creation honours your struggles, O Hilarion. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. By abstinence, O father,* you made the carnal passions subject to your reason-endued soul,* and, adorned with wings of dispassion, O venerable one,* you have received the grace to heal, to expel evils spirits and to save those who have recourse to you.* Wherefore, the choirs of monastics bless you, O right glorious one,* and all creation honours your struggles, O Hilarion. Tone 2, Glory… Bearing the wisdom of perfection from your youth,* and taking upon yourself the yoke of Christ, O Hilarion,* you emulated the life of the godly Anthony, imitating his virtue in diverse ways;* and you caused to wither up the flesh which leapt about like a colt,* for it was needful that your soul tame it, finishing the race of fasting.* O most blessed father and miraculous God-bearer,* ask cleansing and great mercy for those who celebrate your memory with love. Now… Tone 2, Now… With thrice-holy voices, О most pure one,* the multitude of your Son’s angels hymn you,* who are ever His fiery throne, animate palace, and divine bridge leading to Him from the earth.* And together with the Archangel Gabriel they cry out to you:* Rejoice, О joyous one, for you have given birth to the Source of joy! Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 5 O Lord, I cease not to sin,* nor do I perceive Your love for mankind which You have granted me.* Vanquish my lack of discernment, O You who alone are good,* and have mercy upon me. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. O Lord, from reverent fear of You I tremble,* yet I cease not from committing sins.* Who, when called to trial, does not fear the judge?* Or who, desiring to be healed, angers the physician, as I do?* O longsuffering Lord, have compassion upon my weakness,* and have mercy upon me. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Not caring for all earthly things, and manfully braving tortures,* you were not disappointed in your goodly hopes,* but became inheritors of the kingdom, of heaven, О all-praised martyrs.* Having boldness before God the Lover of mankind,* ask peace for the world and great mercy for our souls. Tone 8, Glory… Filled with the Holy Spirit, the venerable Hilarion set at nought the wiles of the demons;* for, armed with the Cross, and being of good cheer therein,* by his word he healed all sicknesses, the passions of the soul and every bodily infirmity.* Through his supplications, O Christ, send down peace upon us,* in that Thou love mankind. Now… Taking up the cry of the Archangel Gabriel, let us say:* Rejoice, O Mother of God, who has given birth to Christ,* the bestower of life upon the world! Troparia Tone 8 Like the great Anthony you were the strength of monks,* a model for the desert-dwellers and a worker of miracles.* You are a source of help for people troubled by passion.* O father Hilarion, pray for those who keep your holy memory. Glory… Now… Rejoice, O woman who at the angel’s greeting contained the Joy of the world!* Rejoice, for you gave birth to your Creator and Lord!* Rejoice, for you were made worthy to become the Mother of God. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O father,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh, which passes,* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* and so, O Venerable Hilarion,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Divinely armed with purity of spirit* and mightily wielding the lance of unceasing prayers,* you overcame the powers of demons,* Venerable Hilarion, pray without ceasing for all of us. 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 115:15,12) Epistle 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5 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 Luke 10:22-24 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 20, 2024 - Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost. Octoechos Tone 5. The Holy Great-Martyr Artemius.

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 20, 2024 GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading “Blessed is the man...” is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 5 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 sin,* and have saved us from the gates of death.* We, therefore, glorify You, O only-begotten Son of God. 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! 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. Let Your 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 from 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. 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. 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. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Lord our Saviour,* who subjected hell and conquered Death,* and enlightened the world through Your precious cross,* have mercy on us. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You did not reject Christ, divinely wise Artemius,* nor did you sacrifice to idols* but you gave your long-suffering and tortured body to scourging* and the torments of many wounds!* You were patient as though another suffered in your place.* You awaited future rewards and immortal glory! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You were suspended from a height and mangled,* broken by stones,* you were burned on all sides by heated irons* and finally beheaded by the sword.* Yet you remained steadfast, glorious one,* for you set the foundation of your soul's house on the spiritual Rock!* Therefore you are filled with ineffable light through your victories,* joining the angels and the martyrs! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Your relics, glorious one, ever pour the grace of healing* on those who love you,* drowning passions and infirmities, Artemius,* putting to flight legions of evil demons.* They water the hearts of the faithful,* causing the divine fruits of the virtues to spring forth,* together with the knowledge of true worship! Tone 2, Glory… Let us honour Artemius,* the spiritual beacon of faith,* for he denounced the evil emperor* and God has robed the church with the purple of his martyr's blood!* Therefore he has received the abundant grace of healing,* curing the infirmities of those who approach his relics in faith! 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 Tone 5 O Christ our Saviour,* we lift up our voices in song 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. Glory… Now… O most pure Virgin,* you are the temple, the gate, the palace, and the throne of the King.* Christ, our Redeemer and Lord,* appeared through you to those who slumbered in darkness.* For He, as the Sun of Righteousness,* wished to enlighten those whom He created with His own hands* according to His own image.* Therefore, O Lady, whom we always praise in song,* we beseech you to intercede with Christ for the salvation of our souls;* for, as His Mother, you can approach Him with the greatest confidence. Troparia 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. Tone 4, Glory… Your martyr, Artemius, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, save our souls. Now... O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created man,*and saved our souls from death. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 5 Troparia, 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. (2) Tone 4, Glory… Your martyr, Artemius, O Lord,* by his passion acquired the crown of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power he overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By his supplications, save our souls. Now... O Mother of God, the mystery hidden from all eternity* and unknown even to the angels,* was revealed through you to those on earth:* God took on our human nature* and united it to His divine nature in a perfect but unconfused union.* Then, He willingly accepted the cross for our sake* and thereby raised again the first created man,*and saved our souls from death. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 5 Let us celebrate the Cross of the Lord,* let us honour His holy Burial with hymns,* and let us exulting, glorify His Resurrection.* For with Himself He has raised the dead from their graves,* and as God having despoiled the dominion of death* and the might of the devil,* He has shone forth light upon those in Hades. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high; forget not Your poor to the end. O Lord, You who put death to death, was called dead;* You who have emptied the tombs was placed in a tomb;* above, the soldiers stood guarding the grave,* below, You raised the dead from all ages.* O Lord, All-powerful and Incomprehensible,* glory be to You! Glory… Now… Rejoice holy mountain upon which God has walked;* Rejoice! living bush unconsumed by fire;* Rejoice! O only bridge of creation to God, who leads mortals to eternal life;* Rejoice! Maiden undefiled, who has born without wedlock* the salvation of our souls. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 5 O Lord, after Your Resurrection on the third day,* and after the worship of the Apostles, Peter cried to You;* The women had courage, and I was afraid;* the Thief confessed You as God, and I denied You:* will You no longer call me a disciple,* or will You once again declare me a fisher of the deep?* Receive me in my penitence, O God, and save me!’ I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart, I will tell of all You wonders. O Merciful Lord, the lawless Ones nailed You between two condemned thieves* and pierced Your side with a lance,* but You, who destroyed the gates of Hades,* suffered burial and arose on the third day;* The women ran to see You and announced the Resurrection to Your Apostles.* O supremely exalted Saviour whom the Angels hymn,* O blessed Lord, glory be to You. Glory… Now… The Bride who knew not wedlock, the Birthgiver of God,* who turned Eve’s grief to joy,* we the faithful hymn and worship,* for you have redeemed us from the ancient curse.* And now, O All-hymned most holy one,* cease not to make intercession for the salvation of our souls. Polyeleos Evoglitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 5 The Myrrh-bearing women, amazed in their minds by the vision of the Angel* yet enlightened in their souls by the divine Resurrection,* announced the glad tidings to the Apostles:* Proclaim among the nations the Resurrection of the Lord,* who works in us through wonders,* and who grants us great mercy. Gradual Hymns, Tone 5 Antiphon 1 When I am troubled I sing to You like David,* O my Saviour:* Deliver my soul from a deceitful tongue. Blessed is the life of those* who dwell in the desert places,* Divine love gives them wings. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit all things are unshaken,* both visible and invisible;* for He has sovereign power,* being undeniably one of the Trinity. Antiphon 2 Lift up yourself to the mountains,* O my soul;* go to that place from whence comes our help. Let Your right hand hover over me,* O Christ,* and guard me from every misfortune. Glory… Now… Let us sing to the Holy Spirit, as we contemplate God:* You are God, life, love, light, and intellect,* You are goodness,* and You reign to the ages. Antiphon 3 Filled with great joy at the words of those who say to me:* “Let us go into the courts of the Lord,”* I offer up my prayers. Fearful things are accomplished in the house of David;* for a fire is found there,* burning every shameful thought. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit belongs the lordship of life,* for from Him every living being hath its breath,* as also from the Father* together with the Son. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 Arise, O Lord my God, lift up Your hand*, for You shall reign forever. verse: I will confess to You, O Lord, with my whole heart, I will recount all Your marvellous works. Let everything that lives, Tone 5 Gospel John 21:15-25 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 5 Ode 1 Irmos: Christ, who breaks the battles,* with uplifted arm shook horse and rider into the Red Sea,* but Israel he saved,* singing a song of victory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The congregation of the Hebrews preserved no mother’s love for you who gave them every good; they crowned you with thorns, O Christ, you who had loosed from the punishing thorns the first ancestor of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Giver of life, you bent down to the pit without danger of falling and raised me up who had fallen; you bore with my evil-smelling corruption, O Christ, yourself untouched, and made me fragrant with the sweet oil of the divine nature. Glory… Now… The curse is lifted, sorrow has ceased; O blessed one and full of grace, you have caused joy to spring up for the faithful for from you Christ has flowered, our blessing for ever. Katavasia: I shall open my mouth, and the Spirit will inspire it,* and I shall utter the words of my song to the Queen and Mother:* I shall be seen radiantly keeping feast* and joyfully praising her wonders. Ode 3 Irmos: Your command fixed firm the earth upon nothing* and sovereignty poised its vast bulk;* make firm your Church on the immovable rock of your commandments,* O Christ, alone good and Lover of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Those who sucked honey from the rock brought you gall for your wonders in the wilderness, O Christ. Vinegar for manna the ungrateful sons of Israel gave you in exchange for your deeds of goodness. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Covered of old by a light-radiant cloud they laid life, O Christ, in the grave: but, you rose of your own power, and you granted mystically to all the faithful the Spirit’s overshadowing shining from above. Glory… Now… Mother of God, virginally and without a mother’s pain you bore him, the outshining of the untouched Father; therefore, since you conceived the Word made flesh, in true faith we proclaim you Bearer of God. Katavasia: O Mother of God, living and plentiful fount,* give strength to those united in spiritual fellowship,* who sing hymns of praise to you:* and in your divine glory vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory. Ode 4 Irmos: Habakkuk in prophecy, O Christ, apprehending your divine emptying, in trembling awe cried out to you: For the salvation of your people, to make safe your anointed, you have come. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Good One, the most bitter streams of Meribah you sweetened by a tree, and thus in sign prefigured your pure cross which slays the bitter taste of sin. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You accepted a cross for the tree of knowledge, my Saviour, gall for sweet food, and for the corruption of death you shed the blood of God. Glory… Now… Untouched, you conceived incorruptibly in your womb; a Virgin, guarded to bring forth God in the flesh, you bore a child without pain and were virgin after the birth. Katavasia: He who sits in glory upon the throne of the Godhead,* Jesus the true God, is come in a swift cloud* and with His sinless hands he has saved those who cry:* Glory to Your power, O Christ. Ode 5 Irmos: To you, clothed with light as a garment,* early I rise and cry out.* Lighten my darkened soul,* O Christ, only compassionate. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. In dishonour and inglorious form, of his own will the Lord of glory hung upon the cross, and inconceivably thus procured for me divine glory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You have changed my clothing for the garment of incorruption, O Christ, for uncorrupted you tasted the corruption of death in the flesh, and on the third day rose from the tomb. Glory… Now… Mother of God, you set free our first father’s nature from the curse, for without seed you gave birth to Christ our righteousness and redemption. Katavasia: The whole world was amazed* at your divine glory:* for you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock,* have held in your womb the God of all* and have given birth to an eternal Son,* who rewards with salvation all who sing your praises. Ode 6 Irmos: Lord Christ, calm the soul-destroying waves of the raging sea of passions* and, O compassionate, lead me up from corruption. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Our first ancestor fell into corruption, Lord Christ, tasting forbidden fruit; and he was brought back to life by your Passion. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You, the life, came to Hell and to the corrupter became corruption; thus, Lord Christ, through corruption you brought, as fountain springing, resurrection. Glory… Now… The Virgin bore a child and after bearing still was pure; holding him up in her arms who supports the whole creation she is truly Virgin Mother. Katavasia: As we celebrate* this sacred and solemn feast of the Mother of God,* let us come, clapping our hands, O people of the Lord,* and give glory to God who was born of her. Kontakion You, my Saviour, descended to Hades,* and as the Almighty, You shattered its gates.* With Yourself You, as the Creator, raised the dead and shattered the sting of death,* and delivered Adam from the curse, O Lover of Mankind.* And so we cry out: “Save us, O Lord.” Ikos The women heard the angel’s words, shed their lamentations, changed to gladness, trembling, saw the resurrection. And Christ drew near in greeting: Joy to you, take courage, I have overcome the world, and set the prisoners free. Run to the disciples and ay: I go before you into Galilee to pr claim the good news. Therefore we all cry out to you: Save us, O Lord. Ode 7 Irmos: The Lord of the fathers, most highly exalted,* quenched the fire and rained his dew* on the young men in unison singing:* Blessed are you, O God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Clothed with flesh as bait for the hook, by your divine power you dragged the serpent down, and brought back those who cried: Blessed are you, O God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He, the unbounded, who brought into being and knitted together the boundless immensities of earth, in the flesh was concealed in the grave; and we sing to him: Blessed are you, O God. Glory… Now… All-holy, you bore one person in two natures, God has taken bodily form and we sing to him: Blessed are you, O God. Katavasia: The holy children bravely trampled upon the threatening fire,* refusing to worship created things in place of the Creator,* and they sang in joy:* Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our Fathers. Ode 8 Irmos: The young men in the furnace devised a chorus of all creation for you, the Creator of all,* and in song they proclaimed it:* All you his works, sing to the Lord,* and highly exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As if it were against your will, of that so longed for cup of your saving Passion you prayed that it might not be: two wills to two natures corresponding you bear, O Christ, throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. At your descent, Creator of all, Hell the fool gave up all those who of old had been slain by deceit, and who now, O Christ, highly exalt you throughout all the ages. Glory… Now… O Virgin, beyond thought, in divine and human manner, by the word you bore the Lord, while remaining virgin; we, his creatures, bless and highly exalt you throughout all the ages. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The Offspring of the Theotokos saved the holy children in the furnace.* He who was then prefigured has since been born on earth,* and He gathers all the creation to sing:* O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: Rejoice and sing, Isaiah,* the Virgin has conceived and bears a son, Emmanuel,* God and man, his name the Dayspring;* we magnify him and we call the Virgin blessed. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Fallen man, Lord Christ, you assumed; wholly joined to him in a virginal womb, sin alone excepted, wholly you have freed him from corruption by your pure sufferings. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your pure and life-giving side, Lord Christ, was emptied of the blood which flowed from God, and sacrifice to idols ceased; and all we of the earth bring to you the sacrifice of praise. Glory… Now… Not God bodiless, nor yet mere man, the pure and honourable Maid bore to us, but perfect man and perfect God, in very truth; we magnify him, together with the Father and the Spirit. Katavasia: Let every mortal born on earth,* radiant with light, in spirit leap for joy;* and let the host of the angelic powers* celebrate and honour the holy feast of the Mother of God,* and let them cry:* Rejoice! Pure and blessed Ever-Virgin, who gave birth to God. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light After His resurrection the Lord asked Peter three times:* Do you love Me?* Then the Lord set Peter as a shepherd over His sheep.* When Peter saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following Him,* he asked the Lord: What about him?* And the Lord said: If I want him to wait until I come again,* what is that to you, O Peter, my beloved? Glory… Now… What an awesome mystery; what a dazzling wonder!* Death has been abolished completely by death.* O Word, Who then will not praise,* and who will not glorify Your resurrection?* Who will not praise the Theotokos* who gave birth to You in the flesh and in purity?* Therefore, by her prayers, save us all from Hades. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 5 You came forth from the grave, O Lord, which had been sealed by the transgressors of the law,* just as You were born of the Theotokos.* For the bodiless angels did not know how You were incarnate.* Likewise, the guardian soldiers did not see the moment of your Resurrection;* for these two marvels were concealed from the curious minds* but were revealed to those who worshiped the mystery in faith.* Therefore, grant joy and great mercy to us who offer You praise. O Lord, You demolished the gates of everlasting damnation,* and You broke asunder the chains of the grave.* You rose from the tomb leaving your wrappings in the grave* in testimony of your three-day burial;* and leaving the guards watching at the tomb,* You preceded your disciples into Galilee.* Great is your mercy, O Lord whom the whole world cannot contain.* O Saviour, have mercy upon us. O Lord, who suffered for us,* the women hastened to your tomb to behold You.* When they arrived, they saw an angel sitting on the stone of the grave.* He said to them: The Lord is risen!* Go and tell the disciples that the Saviour of our souls is risen from the dead. O Lord and Saviour,* You came into the midst of your disciples though the doors were closed* just as You came out of the sealed tomb,* showing the sufferings of the flesh which You accepted;* for You submitted to suffering patiently since You are of the seed of David.* But since You are the Son of God, You saved the world.* Great is your mercy, O Lord whom the whole world cannot contain.* O Saviour, have mercy on us. O Lord, the King of ages and Creator of all,* who accepted crucifixion and burial in the body for our sakes* to deliver us all from Hades,* You are our God, and besides You we know no other. O Lord God, who shall proclaim your dazzling wonders?* Or who shall declare your divine mysteries?* For You were willingly Incarnate for our sakes,* manifesting the might of your power.* By your cross You opened paradise to the thief;* by your death You crushed the bars and bolts of Hades;* and by your Resurrection You enriched all creation.* Therefore, O compassionate One, glory to You! The myrrh-bearing women reached your tomb early in the morning,* seeking to anoint You, O immortal Word.* When they were instructed by the words of the angel,* they turned back with joy* to tell the apostles clearly that You had risen, O Life of all,* and had given the world forgiveness and great mercy. The guards, keeping watch over the God-bearing tomb, said to the Pharisees:* Woe to your vain counsel, for you sought to keep the boundless One.* You have laboured in vain;* for you thought that you could hide the Resurrection of the crucified One, *but you only showed it more clearly.* Woe to your foolish secret meeting.* Why do you take counsel to hide what cannot be hidden?* it would be better that you listen to us* and choose to believe in that which happened.* An angel, resplendent like lightning,* descended from heaven and rolled away the stone,* and from fear of him we were encompassed by death.* To the courageous myrrh-bearing women he said:* Do you not see the guards as dead, the seals broken, and Hades emptied?* Why do you then seek as dead,* Him who abolished the victory of Hades and broke the thorn of death?* Go quickly and tell the good news of the Resurrection to the apostles, • and shout fearlessly, saying:* in truth the Lord is risen, the One who gives us great mercy. Tone 8, Glory… When You showed Yourself to the disciples* after Your resurrection, O Saviour,* You appointed Simon to watch over Your sheep* as a recompense for His love;* You asked him to tend the flock with care.* You said to him: If you love Me, O Peter,* feed my lambs and feed my sheep.* But at once he inquired concerning the other disciple,* revealing him to be the beloved.* Therefore, by the intercession of both, O Christ,* keep Your flock from the ravaging wolves. 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 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. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 5: You, my Saviour, descended to Hades,* and as the Almighty, You shattered its gates.* With Yourself You, as the Creator, raised the dead and shattered the sting of death,* and delivered Adam from the curse, O Lover of Mankind.* And so we cry out: “Save us, O Lord.” Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 5: Rejoice, O impassable door of the Lord!* Rejoice, O rampart and protection of those who have recourse to you!* Rejoice, O tranquil haven and Virgin,* who gave birth in the flesh to your Maker and God!* Fail not to intercede for those* who sing and worship the Child you bore. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 You, O Lord, will guard us and will keep us* from this generation and for ever. verse: Save me, O Lord, for there is no longer left a just man. (Psalm 11:8,2) Epistle Galatians 6:11-18 Alleluia, Tone 5 verse: Your mercies, O Lord, I will sing for ever; from generation to generation I will announce Your truth with my mouth. verse: For You have said: Mercy shall be built up for ever; in the heavens Your truth shall be prepared. (Psalm 88:2,3) Gospel Luke 16:19-31 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Oct 15, 2024 - Our Venerable Father Euthymius the Younger; The Holy Venerable-Martyr Lucian, Priest of Great Antioch.

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 15, 2024 VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. You traversed the narrow path with untroubled spirit,* sailing to those things which lead to life;* for you were the boast of fasters, O Euthymius,* having steadfastly set at naught the pursuit of the demons.* Wherefore, you have been counted worthy to be an heir to the heavenly kingdom,* and you delight in never-ending beauty. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Your most radiant life astonished the angels* and manifestly affrighted the savage demons;* you have splendidly adorned the assemblies of the faithful,* ever commanding them to go to the heavenly dwelling place of Christ.* Entreat Him that they that celebrate your most honoured memory with faith* be delivered from corruption and misfortunes. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Hymnody and praise did you bring to Christ every day, O father, while dwelling in the desert;* and offering up your soul and mind to the one God,* like the great Moses you ascended to the impassable heights of sanctity.* Wherefore, having vanquished the invisible foe,* you became a pure habitation and an instrument of the divine Spirit. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. You made the faithful steadfast, enriching them with faith* and the discourse of knowledge of God,* that they might boldly endure the rage of the tyrant* for the sake of the life which is to come and incorruptible.* Wherefore, we call you blessed, O right glorious Lucian,* and we celebrate your divine solemnity today. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Lengthy imprisonment and a most violent death you endured, O venerable one,* bound with bonds, lacerated with sharp-edged shards, O blessed one,* and weakened by cruel starvation and by long thirst.* Wherefore, you have manifestly received heavenly food* and been made an invincible martyr, O valiant athlete. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The bosom of the sea, receiving you, O glorious one,* gave you over to the dry land after thirty days,* like Jonah of old, through the agency of wild beasts, for divinely honourable interment, a divine wellspring of healings,* princely election of martyrs, establishment of the Church, intercession for our souls,* God-bearer most rich. Tone 6, Glory… O venerable father, word of your corrections has gone forth into all the earth;* wherefore, you have found the reward of your labours in the heavens,*have destroyed the legions of the demons, and attained to the ranks of the angels,* whose life you blamelessly emulated.* Possessed of boldness before Christ God, ask peace for our souls. Now… О most holy Virgin, show forth upon me, the wretched one,* the depths of your love for mankind,* the abyss of your tender compassion, and the countless compassions of thy goodness.* Mow down the stubble of sin, granting me chastity,* and preserve my body and soul undefiled,* О you who have given birth to the Saviour. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 4 I wish to wash away the record of my sins with tears, O Lord,* and please You the rest of my life through repentance;* but the enemy deceives me and fights against my soul.* Save me, O Lord, before the end and I utterly perish. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Who, among the tempest-tossed, having taking refuge in Your harbour,* will not be saved O Lord?* Or who, that ails and falling down in Your infirmary, will not be healed?* O Maker of all that is, and Physician of the ailing,* save me, O Lord, before the end and I utterly perish Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. О Lover of mankind,* as One who has accepted the patience of the holy martyrs,* by their prayers, grant us great mercy. Tone 5, Glory… O venerable father, you gave no sleep to your eyes, nor slumber to your eyelids,* until you freed your soul and body of the passions* and had prepared yourself as a habitation of the Spirit;* for Christ, coming with the Father, made His dwelling within you,* and you became a favourite of the consubstantial Trinity.* O great preacher Euthymius, pray in behalf of our souls. Now… Assuage the sufferings of my much-sighing soul,* O you that wipe every tear from the face of the earth;* for you banish the sufferings of mankind,* and dispel the sorrows of the sinful.* For in you do we all have our hope and confirmation,* O most holy Virgin Mother. Troparia Tone 8 In you, O holy father Euthymius,* the faithful image of God shone forth,* for you carried your cross and followed Christ.* You taught by your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away;* and how to value the soul, for it is immortal.* Therefore, your soul is forever in happiness with the angels. Tone 4, Glory… You kept yourself chaste by your fasting,* and you received an untarnishing crown by your martyrdom.* O martyred priest, Lucian, the pride of Antioch,* beg Christ to save us who keep your holy memory. Now… With hymns of praise let us, the faithful, exalt the Mother of God,* the solid foundation of our faith* and the precious gift to our souls:* Rejoice, O woman who contained in your womb the Rock of life!* Rejoice, O hope of the world and helper of those who are in trouble!* Rejoice, O bride and Virgin forever! DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: In you, O holy father Euthymius,* the faithful image of God shone forth,* for you carried your cross and followed Christ.* You taught by your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away;* and how to value the soul, for it is immortal.* Therefore, your soul is forever in happiness with the angels. Troparion, Tone 4: You kept yourself chaste by your fasting,* and you received an untarnishing crown by your martyrdom.* O martyred priest, Lucian, the pride of Antioch,* beg Christ to save us who keep your holy memory. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 2: We praise Lucian in song as a real light,* for he was renowned first in his fasting* and secondly for his martyr’s blood.* He prays without ceasing for all of us. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: You walked through storms without getting wet,* and with the arrows of your tears you slew the foe.* You received the grace to work miracles, O father Euthymius,* and you heal all our maladies.* Pray unceasingly for all of us. 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 115:15,12) Epistle Colossians 2:20-3:3 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 Luke 9:23-27 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 14, 2024 - The Holy Martyrs Nazarius, Gervasius, Protasius and Celsus; 🕃 Our Venerable Mother Parasceva of Ternovo; Blessed Roman Lysko, Pastor of Youth and Martyr of L'viv.

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 14, 2024 Saint with Six Stichera. VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted tonight. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Having finished the course of faith,* the valiant-minded Nazarius, the great Protase,* the wise Celsius and the divinely wise Gervase* received the crown of victory as witnesses.* Let us hymn them as valiant warriors,* as heirs to the kingdom on high,* as voluntary sacrifices. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Illumined by the sense of the effulgence of the Spirit, O sacred Nazarius,* with divine grace you shone forth more brightly than the sun* upon the souls of those in darkness,* teaching, enlightening, instructing them most splendidly* to believe in and worship the one Lord* who was all-gloriously incarnate of the Virgin* and has enlightened those on earth. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. With Nazarius the ever-memorable Celsius shone forth,* and the glorious Protase and Gervase, who suffered with valiant mind* and manfully vanquished on earth all the hordes of the demons.* Wherefore, they pour forth streams of healings* and richly water the hearts of the pious* with grace divine. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Let Nazarius be praised, and let Protase be honoured* with the godly Celsius and Gervase,* who suffered right gloriously and diminished falsehood,* who are honoured in sacred manner by the angelic choirs* and are deified by divine communion,* receiving crowns of victory* from the hand of the Bestower of life. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. In that you finished the race and kept the faith, O divine martyrs,* you have been crowned with wreaths of suffering* and numbered among the angels,* having fought splendidly and trampled the deceitful enemy underfoot with the help of Christ.* Wherefore, assembling together,* in gladness we celebrate your radiant memory. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Passing through cities, the divinely wise Nazarius illumined them with his Godly preaching.* And Celsius, emulating him, acquired the glory of the athletes of God,* trampling the deceitful one underfoot.* Let us all honour them with praises as stars and luminaries for those in darkness* and physicians for our souls. Tone 8, Glory… Let us praise Nazarius, Gervase, Protase and Celsius, the reason-endowed sacrifices,* for they set at nought all the savagery of the tyrants and the idols.* Wherefore, through their supplications, O Christ God,* grant peace to the world and great mercy to our souls. : Now… I, a created being, ever offend the Creator and move Him to anger.* Grant me correction, О Maiden, first conciliating Him;* and with your help raise me up to pleasing works,* that I may receive salvation and remission. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 4 I wish to wash away the record of my sins with tears, O Lord,* and please You the rest of my life through repentance;* but the enemy deceives me and fights against my soul.* Before the end and I utterly perish, save me, O Lord. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Who, among the tempest-tossed, having taking refuge in Your harbour,* will not be saved, O Lord?* Or who, that ails and falling down in Your infirmary, will not be healed?* O Maker of all that is, and Physician of the ailing,* before the end, may I not utterly perish, save me, O Lord. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. О Christ God, who are glorified in the memorials of Your saints,* be entreated by them,* and send down upon us great mercy. Glory… Now… Rejoice, O cloud of Light!* Rejoice, radiant candlestick!* Rejoice, jar wherein the Manna was kept!* Rejoice, staff of Aaron!* Rejoice, bush unburned!* Rejoice, bridal-chamber!* Rejoice, O throne!* Rejoice, holy mountain!* Rejoice, refuge! Rejoice, divine table!* Rejoice, mystic portal!* Rejoice, O joy of all! Troparia Tone 4 This quartet of martyrs illumines the Church* like a brilliant star in the sky.* By the suffering of Nazarius and confession of the others,* the Church has been made to sing:* Glory to God, the strength of martyrs! Glory… You followed closely in the steps of Christ, your spouse,* loving the silent desert life.* As a young woman you took up his yoke* and armed yourself with the cross against the enemy.* By fasting and prayer, by tears and penance,* you utterly quenched the fires of passion.* Now you stand with the wise virgins in Christ’s presence* and pray for those who honour your memory, O Paraskevia. Now…. To the One who was reared in the Temple,* close to the Holy of Holies,* and who was full of faith, wisdom, and perfect virginity,* Gabriel, the captain and leader,* offered esteem and greetings from heaven when he said:* Rejoice, O blessed One! Rejoice, O glorified One!* The Lord is with you. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: This quartet of martyrs illumines the Church* like a brilliant star in the sky.* By the suffering of Nazarius and confession of the others,* the Church has been made to sing:* Glory to God, the strength of martyrs! Troparion, Tone 4: You followed closely in the steps of Christ, your spouse,* loving the silent desert life.* As a young woman you took up his yoke* and armed yourself with the cross against the enemy.* By fasting and prayer, by tears and penance,* you utterly quenched the fires of passion.* Now you stand with the wise virgins in Christ’s presence* and pray for those who honour your memory, O Paraskevia. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 6: Let us all sing of holy Paraskevia, patroness of those in peril.* She spurned the crown of corruption and received the lasting one;* therefore, God has given her glory and the grace of miracles. Kontakion, Tone 2: O heavenly martyrs, you have become brilliant stars.* By your miracles you shed light on the world.* You dispel the murky darkness and free us from sickness.* Pray unceasingly to Christ for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 God is wonderful in His saints,* the God of Israel. verse: Bless God in the churches, the Lord from the fountains of Israel. (Psalm 67:36,27) Epistle Colossians 2:13-20 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: With expectation I have waited for the Lord, and he was attentive to me, and He heard my prayer. verse: He brought me out of the pit of misery and the mud of the swamp. (Psalm 39:2,3) Gospel Luke 9:18-22 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 13, 2024 - Commemoration of the Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council. Octoechos Tone 4. Holy Martyrs Carpus, Papylas and Agathonicus.

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 13, 2024 GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 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. 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! 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. Let Your 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. Tone 6 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Truly the Seven Councils of the Fathers* although held at various times* were brought together under the canons and in good order* by the Patriarch Germanus the New.* By inscribing and establishing their doctrines* and offering themselves as intercessors with the Lord,* the Fathers are protectors of our salvation* and shepherds of the fold. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. The Book of the Law has truly honoured the seventh day for the Hebrews* who were dispersed in the shadow of the Law and devoted to it.* But you Fathers, by your participation in the Seven Councils,* by the inspiration of God who in six days finished this universe* and blessed the seventh day,* have made it even more honourable by decreeing the bounds of faith. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. You have given all, O thrice-blessed Fathers,* to know the Father, the Son, and the Spirit clearly by their works:* the Trinity who is the cause of the creation of the world.* By your mystical speech* you called the first three Councils and then the next four.* You have appeared as champions of the true faith,* proving that the Trinity is truly the Creator* of the four elements and of the world. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. It would have sufficed Elisha the Prophet* to bend but once to instil life into the dead son of the servant,* but he kneeled and bent seven times.* Thus, in his foreknowledge he prophesied your gathering* through which you revived the Incarnation of the Word of God,* and humiliated Arius and his co-workers. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. In wisdom, O venerable Fathers,* you patched the garment of Christ* which had been torn by barking dogs;* for you could not possibly bear to see his nakedness,* like Shem and Japheth of old,* who could not bear to see the nakedness of their father.* Thus you confounded the foolish Arius* and all those who followed his doctrines. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O Fathers, you are the true shepherds* who expelled from the Saviour’s fold* the Macedonians and the Nestorians,* the followers of Ephtechnis and Dioscorus,* Appolonarius, Sabellius, and Severus* because they became devouring wolves hidden in the skins of lambs.* Since you exposed these wretched ones, we truly honour you. Tone 6, Glory… Let us honour today those mystical trumpets of the Spirit,* namely the God-mantled Fathers* who, speaking of divine things,* sang in the midst of the Church a hymn in unison,* teaching that the Trinity is One,* not differing in Substance or Godhead,* refuting Arius and struggling for the true faith.* They always intercede with the Lord* to have mercy on our souls. 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. Readings (1) Genesis 14: 14-20; (2) Deuteronomy 1: 8-11, 15-17; (3) Deuteronomy 10: 14-21 Aposticha Tone 4 In being lifted upon the cross, O Lord,* You abolished the curse which we had inherited from our fathers.* By going down into Hades,* You freed from eternal captivity those imprisoned there,* and granted incorruption to mankind.* 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. Tone 4, Glory… Come all you people of the true faith,* let us celebrate today in faith and true worship* the anniversary of the God-mantled Fathers* who came together in the splendid city of Nicaea* from the whole inhabited world.* These Fathers, in the wisdom of their pious minds,* refuted the impious belief which the wretched Arius had invented.* They banished him from the universal Church by a decree of the Council.* They instructed all to confess openly* that the Son of God is consubstantial and co-eternal with the Father before all eternity,* decreeing the same with precision and true worship in the Canon of Faith.* Therefore, following their divine doctrines,* in true faith let us worship the Father and the Son and the most Holy Spirit,* the consubstantial Trinity in one Godhead. Now… O most pure Virgin, hear the petitions of your servants.* Remove the burdens which oppress us,* and deliver us from our sorrows;* for you are the only firm and constant support on whom we rely.* O Mother of God, never permit us who call upon you* to be overwhelmed by our cares.* Hasten to fulfill the supplications of all who, in faith, cry out to you:* Rejoice, O Lady, helper of all mankind,* the joy, the refuge, and the salvation of our souls. Troparia 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.” Tone 8, Glory… Christ our God, You are glorified above all,* You established our fathers as beacons on earth* and through them guided all of us to the true faith.* Glory to You, most compassionate Lord. 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! GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 4 Troparia, 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.” (2) Tone 8, Glory… Christ our God, You are glorified above all,* You established our fathers as beacons on earth* and through them guided all of us to the true faith.* Glory to You, most compassionate Lord. 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! Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 Looking into the entrance of the tomb,* the Myrrh-bearing women were unable to endure the bright radiance of the Angel,* trembling in awe they said;* How is it that He who has opened Paradise to the Thief hath been stolen?* How is it that He who before His passion proclaimed His Arising has been raised?* Truly Christ God has arisen, granting those in Hades life and resurrection. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. Mortal men laid in a new tomb* the One who through a word established the ends of earth,* for You, O Saviour, willingly endured the Cross,* whereby You conquered the adversary, and despoiled death,* for which cause all those in Hades extol Your life-giving Arising saying* Christ, the giver of life, has arisen and abides to the ages. Glory… Now… As he contemplated that which was beyond nature* Joseph was struck with wonder, O Theotokos, at you conception without seed.* He contemplated the mysterious dew upon the fleece,* the bush unburnt by fire,* Aaron’s rod which budded.* Thus your Betrothed and guardian bore witness and cried to the priests saying:* A Virgin bears a child,* and after child-birth remains yet a virgin. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 O Saviour, You arose from Hades as immortal,* raising the world together with You by Your might, O Christ our God.* With strength You have overthrown the dominion of death,* revealing the Resurrection to all, O Merciful one.* Wherefore we also glorify You, O only Lover of mankind. I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. Gabriel radiant in white vestments descended from the heights above,* and approaching the rock upon which the Rock of life was lying,* cried to the weeping women saying:* Cease your cries of lamentation;* for you have now obtained merciful compassion.* Take courage, for the One you seek is truly risen.* Therefore, cry to the Apostles telling them that the Lord has arisen,* to worship the risen One;* and having received gladness, to take courage, together with Eve. Glory… Now… All the choirs of Angels were struck with wonder, O Pure Virgin,* at the awesome mystery of your conception.* How can the One who holds all things in place with only a nod,* now be held in your arms as a man?* How can the Eternal accept a beginning?* How can the One who nourishes everything that has breath by His ineffable goodness,* be suckled at your breast?* And upon seeing these things, with hymns they glorify you* as truly the Mother of God. Polyeleos Evoglitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 4 The Myrrh-bearing women hastened to proclaim to the Apostles* the news of Your wondrous Rising, O Christ:* that as God You have arisen,* granting the world great mercy. Gradual Hymns, Tone 4 Antiphon 1 From my youth do many passions war against me;* but do You Yourself defend* and save me, O my Saviour. You haters of Sion shall be shamed by the Lord;* for like grass, by the fire* shall you be withered. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit, every soul is quickened,* and, through cleansing, is exalted* and made radiant* by the Triple Unity in a hidden sacred manner. Antiphon 2 From the depths of my soul* I have cried to You fervently, O Lord;* let Your divine ears be attentive to me. Everyone who has set their hope in the Lord,* is higher than all those* who mourn. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit* the streams of grace swell up;* watering all creation* engendering life. Antiphon 3 Let my heart be raised to You, O Lord;* and let none of the pleasures of the world lure me* to weakness. As one that has tender love for one’s mother;* so should we have even more fervent love* for the Lord. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit comes an abundance of divine knowledge,* contemplation and wisdom;* for by Him the Word unveils* all the Father’s teachings. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 Arise, O Lord: help us,* and redeem us for Your name’s sake. verse: We heard with our own ears, O God, our fathers have told us the story of the things You did in days long ago. Let everything that lives, Tone 4 Gospel John 21:1-14 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 4 Ode 1 Irmos: Through the Red Sea, as on the dry land,* old Israel passed on with unmoistened foot;* crosswise, in the wilderness, Moses held up his arms* and they routed Amalek’s might. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As good and all-powerful, O Lord, you were lifted up on the immaculate tree of your cross, healing by the tree our utter destruction, setting right our defection. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. In your body in the tomb, as God with your soul in Hell, with the Thief in Paradise, you were yet, O Christ, on the throne with the Father and the Spirit, all things filling, and infinite. Glory… Now… You conceived the Son of God without seed, by the Father’s purpose, from the divine Spirit; you bore in flesh the one from the Father without mother: through us, out of you, without father. Katavasia: I shall open my mouth, and the Spirit will inspire it,* and I shall utter the words of my song to the Queen and Mother:* I shall be seen radiantly keeping feast* and joyfully praising her wonders. Ode 3 Irmos: Your Church, O Christ, makes merry in you, crying aloud:* You are my strength, O Lord, my refuge, my firm foundation. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The tree of life, the true and intellectual vine, hangs upon the cross pouring forth to all the elixir of life. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As a great one and fearful, demolishing utterly the insolence of Hell, as God incorruptible, now you have risen in the flesh. Glory… Now… You only, O Mother of God, are the friend who procures the good things beyond nature for those upon earth and therefore we bring to you our “Hail.” Katavasia: O Mother of God, living and plentiful fount,* give strength to those united in spiritual fellowship,* who sing hymns of praise to you:* and in your divine glory vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory. Ode 4 Irmos: Seeing you the Sun of Righteousness* lifted high on the cross,* with good reason your Church stood still in her course and exclaimed:* Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You went up on the Cross, to the Passion of your pure flesh worn of your own will, thus healing my passions. Therefore we cry to you: Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Lord, death tasted of your life-giving, sinless flesh and deservedly was slain. But we cry to you: Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory… Now… You bore a child, O Virgin, without a man, and after the birth you were discerned as still a virgin; therefore in faith unwavering we cry in never silent voices: Hail to you, our Lady. Katavasia: He who sits in glory upon the throne of the Godhead,* Jesus the true God, is come in a swift cloud* and with His sinless hands he has saved those who cry:* Glory to Your power, O Christ. Ode 5 Irmos: Lord, my light, you have come into the world;* O holy light, turn from the darkness of ignorance all who sing to you in faith. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. In compassion, O Lord, you came down to the earth; hanging upon the tree you raised up the fallen nature of man. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Christ, you bore yourself the reproach of my sins; you loosed the pangs of death, Compassionate, in your holy resurrection. Glory… Now… We thrust you forward as an unbreakable shield in face of our enemies; we have gained you, Bride of God, as anchor and hope of our salvation. Katavasia: The whole world was amazed* at your divine glory:* for you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock,* have held in your womb the God of all* and have given birth to an eternal Son,* who rewards with salvation all who sing your praises. Ode 6 Irmos: I will sacrifice to you, O Lord, with the voice of praise:* so cries your Church to you,* purified from demons’ gore* through the blood which flows in pity from your side. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Girded with power you went up on the cross and came to grips with the tyrant and as God you dashed him down from the heights and raised up Adam with your invincible hand. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You are risen, O Christ, from the tomb in dazzling beauty of lightning flash, scattering to the winds by your power divine every one of your enemies. As God you have filled all things with gladness. Glory… Now… O wonder of all wonders, newest and strangest, that a virgin, knowing no man, conceived in the womb him who holds the whole universe in his hands and suffered no straitening. Katavasia: As we celebrate* this sacred and solemn feast of the Mother of God,* let us come, clapping our hands, O people of the Lord,* and give glory to God who was born of her. Kontakion 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. Ikos Today Christ, the giver of life, has risen from the dead, come after three days from the tomb; by his might he has smashed the doors of death, put Hell to death and crushed death’s sting and Adam with Eve set free. Let all of us born of the earth sing to him, in thankfulness fervently cry out his praise. For he, the lone strong One, on the third day as God and as Lord has risen. Ode 7 Irmos: In a Persian furnace three children of Abraham were set on fire* but more than in the flames they blazed in loving desire to God, and cried:* Blessed are you, O Lord,* in the temple of your glory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Washed in Christ’s divine blood, mankind has been called to incorruption and sings in thanksgiving: Blessed are you, O Lord, in the temple of your glory. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your tomb, O Christ, declares itself life-bearing, fairer far than Paradise, more radiant than any kingly hall, fount of our resurrection. Glory… Now… Hail, tabernacle of the Most High, hallowed and sacred. Joy is given through you, O Mother of God, to those who cry to you: Blessed are you amongst women, All-holy Lady. Katavasia: The holy children bravely trampled upon the threatening fire,* refusing to worship created things in place of the Creator,* and they sang in joy:* Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our Fathers. Ode 8 Irmos: Daniel, with hands outspread in the den,* stopped the gaping jaws of the lions;* the three children, lovers of God,* clothed in the virtue of godliness,* quenched the power of the fire and sang aloud:* Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. With hands outspread on the cross, O Lord, you gathered together the nations and showed them to be one Church praising you, with those on earth and those in heaven in harmony singing: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As lightning flashing, in the unapproachable light of the resurrection, the white-robed angel appeared to the women and cried: Why do you seek the living in the tomb as dead? Christ is risen indeed and we cry to him: All you his works, sing praises to the Lord. Glory… Now… You alone, among all the families of the earth, are revealed as Mother of God; wholly without stain, unharmed by the fire of the unapproachable light, you became the dwelling-place of the Godhead. We all bless you, therefore, Mary, God’s bride. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The Offspring of the Theotokos saved the holy children in the furnace.* He who was then prefigured has since been born on earth,* and He gathers all the creation to sing:* O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: From you, O Virgin, the mountain unhewn,* is taken the stone uncut by human hands:* Christ the cornerstone, disparate natures joining together.* Therefore, we rejoice and magnify you, Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Wholly you have taken me up entire into union without confusion through your great mercy, my God, giving me salvation in full through your suffering endured on the cross in the flesh. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Gazing upon your opened tomb and upon the linen clothes, within which God had lain, left empty by your resurrection, your disciples said with the angel: The Lord is risen indeed. Glory… Now… All we the faithful worship the one divine nature but Trinity of persons; persons unconfounded, equal in power and equal in honour, we reverently magnify. Katavasia: Let every mortal born on earth,* radiant with light, in spirit leap for joy;* and let the host of the angelic powers* celebrate and honour the holy feast of the Mother of God,* and let them cry:* Rejoice! Pure and blessed Ever-Virgin, who gave birth to God. 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… O divinely inspired Fathers,* gathered together in the Seventh Council, pray unceasingly to the Holy Trinity* to save us from every heresy and condemnation* those who praise your holy gathering* that they may receive the kingdom of heaven. Now… Through the intercession of your holy Mother* and those of the Fathers assembled in the Seventh Council,* in Your goodness, O Lord,* strengthen Your Church and confirm the faith;* make us all inhabitants of the kingdom of heaven* when You come to earth to judge the whole creation. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 4 O all-powerful Lord,* Who endured the Cross and death,* and arose from the dead,* we glorify Your Holy Resurrection. By Your Cross, O Christ, You have delivered us from the ancient curse,* and by Your death You have conquered the devil who tyrannized our nature.* By Your arising You have filled all things with joy,* wherefore we cry to You:* O Lord risen from the dead, glory be to You! O Christ the Saviour,* with Your Cross, guide us to Your truth,* and deliver us from the snares of the enemy;* O You who are risen from the dead* raise us also who have fallen through sin,* by the stretching out of Your hand,* O Lord, at the behest of the prayers of Your Saints. Without departing from Your Father’s bosom,* in Your tender compassion, You descended to earth,* O Only-begotten Word of God,* without change becoming man.* While You are impassible in Your divinity,* You suffered the Cross and death in the flesh;* and rising from the dead You have granted immortality to the race of mankind,* as You alone are all-powerful. Tone 6 Having carefully considered the whole knowledge of the soul in the Holy Spirit,* the venerable, glorified, and all-holy Fathers* inscribed in the divine writing the honourable and heavenly Canon* in which they clearly teach that the Word is co-eternal and consubstantial with the Father.* Thus, they follow without error the teachings of the Apostles. Having carefully considered the whole knowledge of the soul in the Holy Spirit,* the venerable, glorified, and all-holy Fathers* inscribed in the divine writing the honourable and heavenly Canon* in which they clearly teach that the Word is co-eternal and consubstantial with the Father.* Thus, they follow without error the teachings of the Apostles. When the holy preachers of Christ* fully received the light from the Holy Spirit,* they spoke with divine insight,* with few but deeply meaningful words inspired from above,* bringing to the front the evangelical doctrines* and traditions of true worship.* When these were clearly revealed to them from on high,* they were enlightened* and thus established the faith from God. Truly the divine shepherds were favoured servants of God* and honoured preachers of the divine Word.* They were indeed the true shepherds;* and having now been justly angered,* in a judgment of truth, they expelled from the perfection of the Church* all those devouring and destructive wolves.* They cast them down with the power of the Spirit.* The unbelievers fell prey to great affliction. Tone 8, Glory… When the holy Fathers gathered from the ends of the world,* they believed in one substance and one nature* of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.* They delivered plainly to the Church the mystery of discoursing in theology.* Therefore, we honour them in faith and bless them, saying:* What a divine army, O God-inspired soldiers of the camp of the Lord.* O most brilliant luminaries in the heavens,* you mighty towers of the mystical Sion,* you scented flowers of Paradise,* the golden lights of the Word,* the pride and delight of the whole universe,* intercede unceasingly for our souls. 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING 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.” Troparion, Tone 8: Christ our God, You are glorified above all,* You established our fathers as beacons on earth* and through them guided all of us to the true faith.* Glory to You, most compassionate Lord. 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. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 6: The Son who ineffably shone from the Father* was born two-fold of nature from a woman.* Beholding Him, we do not reject the image of His form;* but depicting it, we revere it faithfully.* Therefore the Church, holding the true faith,* kisses the icon of Christ’s becoming man. Now and forever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 6: Undaunted patroness of Christians,* O steadfast intermediary with the Creator,* turn not away from the suppliant voices of sinners,* but in your kindness come to help us who cry out to you in faith.* Be quick to intercede, make haste to plead,* for you are ever the patroness of those who honour you, O Mother of God. 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 13:7-16 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: The God of gods, the Lord, spoke and summoned the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting. verse: Gather to Him His devout ones, who with sacrifice make covenant with Him. (Psalm 49:1,5) Gospel John 17:1-13 world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.” Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens,* praise Him in the highest.* Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalms 184:1; 32:1):

Oct 12, 2024 - The Holy Martyrs Probus, Tarachus, and Andronicus; Our Venerable Father Cosmas of Jerusalem, Bishop of Maium and Composer of Canon. Our Holy Father Martin the Compassionate, Bishop of Tours.

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 12, 2024 VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Your face shattered, your neck wounded, healthy bones broken by staves,* your feet and head burned, cruelly pricked with goads,* your ears and lips cut away, forced to drink vinegar,* cast to the wild beasts and beheaded with the sword,* you rejoiced, O martyr Tarachus. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Beaten and pricked with goads,* your sinews severed, deprived of your sight, given to be food for the wild beasts,* exposed to the fire and beheaded by the sword, you endured, O blessed one,* adornment of the martyrs and confirmation of the Church,* O glorious athlete Probus, peer of the angels. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Burned with fire, beaten with leather scourges,* raked with claws, your sinews severed,* your theologizing tongue cut out, your teeth savagely uprooted, O Andronicus,* having wrestled with wild beasts and met your end under the sword,* you finished your contest and receive your crown. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. As one who sustains us with wisdom, and nurtures us with purity,* O treasury of understanding, O most renowned theologian, O divine disciple,* an enlightener of the faithful, we praise you, O blessed hierarch Cosmas,* entreating the Master through you, that we all be delivered* from corruption, misfortunes, and all harm. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You lived your life in abstinence, keeping vigils and fasting,* in chastity and humility, O glorious one,* and were in all ways enriched by the knowledge of transitory things below* and by heavenly splendours, O blessed one;* and you have manifestly thundered forth the incomprehensible, awesome, and great mystery* of the King of all. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You were humble-minded and meek, calm and goodly of speech,* kind and guileless, chaste and righteous, most simple and wholesome, O venerable Cosmas.* And as a hierarch revealed by God in sanctity,* you shepherded your flock, O divinely wise one,* on the verdure which grows by the waters of salvation.* Wherefore, we now call you blessed. Tone 3, Glory… Now… O Lady most honourable,* how could we but be rapt in wonder* at your giving birth to the Incarnate God* who, without a mother, was born of a Father before all ages?* You gave Him birth in the flesh without a father,* without a man’s instrumentality.* He is God and man whose two natures are intact,* neither one losing any of its properties.* Therefore, O Virgin Mother,* intercede with Him to save the souls* of those who believe and profess in true faith* that you are the Mother of God. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 3 Made steadfast by faith, strengthened by hope,* and spiritually united by the love of Your Cross, О Lord,* Your martyrs put an end to the tyranny of the enemy and have received crowns;* and with the incorporeal ones they pray on behalf of our souls. Blessed are they whom You have chosen* and have taken to Yourslelf, О Lord, All things human, which endure not after death, are vain.* Our wealth will not remain, our glory will not go with us upon the way:* for when death comes, all these things will fade away.* Therefore let us cry to Christ the immortal King:* Grant rest to our departed brethren* and grant them to dwell with the joyous. Their souls shall dwell* amid good things. O race of mankind, why do you trouble yourself in vain?* The path on which you run is short.* Our life is but smoke, vapour, ashes and dust;* it appears but briefly, and then vanishes.* Therefore let us cry to Christ the immortal King:* Grant rest to our departed brethren* and grant them to dwell with the joyous. Tone 1, Glory… Probus, Tarachus, and the wise Andronicus, the threefold company,* equal in number to the Trinity, appearing like radiant stars from the East,* summon creation to a sacred festival;* for they gave their flesh to the wild beasts* and, having stained the ground with their blood,* join chorus with the angels in the heavens, bearing crowns,* and entreating God who loves mankind, in our behalf,* that He grant us remission of transgressions and great mercy. Now… Truly wondrous beyond understanding* are the mighty works of your birthgiving, O Bride of God,* of which all the prophets proclaimed,* and your conception and birth giving are most glorious, O all-hymned one,* whereby your Offspring has incomprehensibly and ineffably saved the world,* in that He is merciful. Troparia Tone 5 The hosts of heaven marvelled at the corrections of the holy martyrs,* how in their mortal bodies they invisibly vanquished the incorporeal foe,* contending well with the power of the Cross*. And they pray to Christ, that our souls find mercy. Tone 8, Glory… Instructor in orthodoxy, teacher of piety and purity, beacon to the whole world,* divinely inspired adornment of hierarchs, O Cosmas most wise,* You have enlightened all by your teachings.* Entreat Christ God that our souls be saved, O harp of the Spirit. 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! DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 6:1-10 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Oct 11, 2024 - The Holy Apostle Philip, One of the Seven Deacons; Our Venerable Father Theophanes the Branded, Composer of Canons.

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 11, 2024 Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O blessed Philip, who as one full of wisdom and divine grace* was numbered among the seven deacons,* you were chosen with Stephen to minister to the needs of the saints.* Wherefore, beholding him slain, you hastened to Samaria at the command of God, O glorious one,* preaching the word of God and enlightening them that before were in darkness, O most wise one,* whom you made children of the day through the Spirit of God. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Beholding the divine signs wrought by Your hand:* the recovery of sight by the blind, the healing of the paralyzed,* the expulsion of unclean spirits where they lived,* the people marvelled, O Philip, and came to you for spiritual cleansing,* brought suddenly from unbelief to faith.* Wherefore, when they heard of this, the divine choir of the apostles were gladdened,* for a multitude of Samaritans was led to God. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Being yourself a chariot of the Word, O divinely eloquent one,* beholding the right wondrous eunuch of Candace riding upon a chariot,* questioning and in doubt, you overtook him* and revealed to him the discourse and manifestation of things desired, O blessed one;* and, believing, he asked of you divine cleansing.* And when he had received it, the Creator of all made him a divine preacher,* the first among the martyrs of all Ethiopia. Tone 6 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Radiantly did you shine forth, O glorious Theophanes,* in the firmament of faith like a star most bright,* dispelling all the darkness of the heretics with the rays of your light* and illumining with your divine teaching them that turn to you with faith and love.* Wherefore, with love do we celebrate your radiant feast:* Pray with boldness in behalf of our souls. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Having armed your soul with labours of fasting,* you put an end to the capers of the flesh, O most sacred father,* and made your mind a dwelling of the divine Trinity, O glorious one.* You were raised up where the armies of the martyrs,* the assemblies of hierarchs and ineffable beauty are,* and with them you now rejoice, standing in glory before Christ,* praying with boldness in behalf of our souls. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. With the divine streams of your tears, O hierarch,* you drowned the whole encampment of the demons as though it were helpless;* and by your continual beseeching of God and your mighty ascents* you cast down to the earth prideful exaltation and ascended to the splendid mansion of heaven,* where you abide with the angels, standing before Christ,* praying with all the company of the blessed ones. Tone 6, Glory… Now… The unblemished ewe-lamb, the immaculate Mistress,* as she beheld of old her Lamb upon the Tree of the Cross,* cried out maternally and exclaimed in amazement:* O Child most sweet, what is this new and most glorious sight?* How have the thankless assembly of the Judeans given You over to the court of Pilate?* How is the Life of all condemned to death?* I hymn Your ineffable condescension, O Word! Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 3 I bow down, О Christ, before Your precious Cross:* the guardian of the world, the salvation of us sinners,* the great purification and boast of the whole world. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Lifting up his arms in the form of the Cross on the mountain, Moses vanquished Amalek;* and You, О Saviour, stretched out upon the precious Cross, embraced me,* saving me from slavery to the enemy,* and gave it to me as the sign of life,* enabling me to evade the arrows of my adversaries.* Wherefore, О Word, I bow down before Your precious Cross. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Great is the power of Your Cross!* For it was planted in one place, yet works throughout the world;* and it made apostles of fishermen and martyrs of the heathen,* that they might pray on behalf of our souls. Tone 3, Glory… Now… The all-immaculate one, beholding You lifted up upon the Tree,* cried out, weeping maternally: “O my supremely good Christ, my most beloved Son!* How have the iniquitous assembly lifted You up upon the Cross?” Troparia Tone 3 Holy Apostle, Philip, intercede with the merciful God* to grant our souls forgiveness of sins. Tone 8, Glory… Instructor in orthodoxy, teacher of piety and purity, beacon to the whole world,* divinely inspired adornment of hierarchs, O Theophanes most wise,* You have enlightened all by your teachings.* Entreat Christ God that our souls be saved, O harp of the Spirit. Now… When the Mother beheld upon the cross* the Lamb, the Shepherd, and the Saviour of the world,* she exclaimed tearfully:* The world rejoices at the sight of its redemption,* but my heart is afire as I see Your pain on the cross,* which You accept for the sake of all, O my Son and my God! DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 3: Holy Apostle, Philip, intercede with the merciful God* to grant our souls forgiveness of sins. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: As a star most bright the Church forever possess you,* O Apostle Philip,* for she is illumined by the frequent gift of your miracles.* And so we call out to Christ:* “Save those who venerate in faith the memory of Your apostle,* O most merciful One!” Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world. verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hand. Epistle Colossians 2:1-7 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: The heavens shall confess Your wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints. verse: God is glorified in the assembly of the saints. Gospel Luke 9:12-17 Communion Hymn Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5):

Oct 10, 2024 - Holy Martyrs Eulampius and Eulampia (305-13).

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 10, 2024 VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 3 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Through the supplications of Your honoured and divine apostles*, О only Merciful and Compassionate One who loves mankind,* grant Your humility to Your servants,* and save from misfortunes those who hymn and worship You with faith. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. When with the Judge of all you shall sit on twelve thrones to judge all creation,* show me not to be condemned,* but deliver me from darkness and all affliction,* О divine apostles, my benefactors. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. As you were eyewitnesses to God,* deliver me from the arrows of the ungodly one, foiling his machinations;* and bedew me with the dew of the Spirit, I pray you,* О divine apostles, my wise benefactors. Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Illumined by the Holy Spirit, O all-praised martyrs,* you arrayed yourselves against the wiles of the prince of this world;* and, vanquishing him manfully, you prevailed over him with divine skill.* Wherefore, celebrating your splendid memorial today,* we honour your sufferings with praises as is meet,* O you of great renown. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Mingling the fire and torments, O holy ones, by wisdom you remained unwavering;* and burning like lamps with the fervour of the Spirit,* you have illumined the hearts of the faithful with grace.* Wherefore, every age and generation celebrates your holy memory hymning the Lord. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Shining forth like stars of great brilliance,* the divinely wise Eulampius and the most honoured Eulampia, the godly pair,* illumine creation with the radiance of their struggles and the splendours of their miracles.* And celebrating today their most sacred memory,* with gladness we bow down before the shrine of their relics. Tone 4, Glory… Uniting your identical names to your fraternal love,* and joining purity to dispassion, you preserved your moral force unimpaired;* for where God is desired, the whole world is as spurned.* What a wonder! The serpent is slain!* He who dwells beneath the earth, who railed unrighteously against heaven,* has been brought down through the suffering of the brother and sister, the wise Eulampius and Eulampia.* Unto them let us cry out with spiritual hymns:* O you who finished well the race for Christ,* ask peace for the world and great mercy for our souls. Now… O all-pure one, who have contained the infinite God in your womb* who, in His love for mankind, has become a man,* and has received our substance from you, deifying it:* disdain me not who am now sorrowing, but quickly take pity* and free me from diverse enemies and the malice of the evil one. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 3 Your sound went forth into all the earth, О holy apostles,* destroying the deception of the idols,* and preaching the knowledge of God.* Behold, your struggle is good, О blessed ones;* wherefore, we hymn and glorify your memory. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. As branches of the life-bearing Vine, О glorious apostles,* you brought yourselves to God as the fruit of piety;* wherefore, as you have boldness before Him,* ask that He grant peace and great mercy to our souls. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Rendered steadfast by faith, strengthened by hope,* and spiritually united by the love of Your Cross, О Lord,* Your martyrs abolished the tyranny of the enemy;* and having received crowns, with the incorporeal ones, they pray for our souls. Tone 3, Glory… Now… O Maiden, I have sinned exceedingly,* rescue me from the flame of want by your great supplications,* and set me aright, O pure one, by your entreaties,* and guide me to the paths of salvation by your maternal supplications. Troparia Tone 4 Your holy martyrs Eulampius and Eulampia, O Lord,* through their sufferings have received their incorruptible crowns from You, our God.* For having your strength, they laid low their adversaries,* and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.* Through their intercessions, save our souls! Glory… Now… O Virgin Mother of God,* we acknowledge that the Word of the Father, Christ our God,* was incarnate of you, the only pure one and the only blessed one.* Therefore, we sing to you a hymn of praise and we exalt you. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Your holy martyrs Eulampius and Eulampia, O Lord,* through their sufferings have received their incorruptible crowns from You, our God.* For having your strength, they laid low their adversaries,* and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.** Through their intercessions, 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 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle Colossians 1:24-29 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 9:7-11 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Oct 9, 2024 - 🕂 The Holy Apostle James, Son of Alpheus; Our Venerable Father Andronika and his wife Anastasia.

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 9, 2024 Polyeleos Feast. GREAT VESPERS Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! As radiant as the sun you shone forth, O apostle, with the beams of the Spirit,* and have illumined the whole world with divine knowledge, O blessed one,* and driven away the darkness of polytheism with your divine preaching.* Wherefore, celebrating your all-splendid and right laudable festival today,* we glorify you with piety. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. As radiant as the sun you shone forth, O apostle, with the beams of the Spirit,* and have illumined the whole world with divine knowledge, O blessed one,* and driven away the darkness of polytheism with your divine preaching.* Wherefore, celebrating your all-splendid and right laudable festival today,* we glorify you with piety. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. As radiant as the sun you shone forth, O apostle, with the beams of the Spirit,* and have illumined the whole world with divine knowledge, O blessed one,* and driven away the darkness of polytheism with your divine preaching.* Wherefore, celebrating your all-splendid and right laudable festival today,* we glorify you with piety. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You have thundered forth sacred and saving doctrines upon the whole world, O all-wise one,* have cleansed all creation of the madness of idolatry, O divinely wise one,* and have enlightened the people with the radiance of the knowledge of God.* And, demolishing the temples of the idols through grace,* you raised up churches to the praise of our God. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. You have thundered forth sacred and saving doctrines upon the whole world, O all-wise one,* have cleansed all creation of the madness of idolatry, O divinely wise one,* and have enlightened the people with the radiance of the knowledge of God.* And, demolishing the temples of the idols through grace,* you raised up churches to the praise of our God. 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 thundered forth sacred and saving doctrines upon the whole world, O all-wise one,* have cleansed all creation of the madness of idolatry, O divinely wise one,* and have enlightened the people with the radiance of the knowledge of God.* And, demolishing the temples of the idols through grace,* you raised up churches to the praise of our God. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Seated in the heights of divine knowledge, O James,* you received the grace of the Spirit,* which appeared to you in the guise of fire* and manifestly consumed all the idolatrous filth of impiety with a tongue of fire.* Wherefore, we praise you as an apostle and herald of God,* celebrating today your holy festival. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Seated in the heights of divine knowledge, O James,* you received the grace of the Spirit,* which appeared to you in the guise of fire* and manifestly consumed all the idolatrous filth of impiety with a tongue of fire.* Wherefore, we praise you as an apostle and herald of God,* celebrating today your holy festival. Glory... Manifestly receiving the grace of the divine Spirit, O James,* you were numbered among the sacred choir of the apostles.* Wherefore, by His descent from the heavens and His mighty inspiration,* He illumined you with a tongue of fire,* and you have consumed the thorny ungodliness of the heathen.* Entreat Christ God, O divine herald, that our souls be saved. Now… O Mother of God, because of You* David the Prophet became an ancestor of God;* he foretold and sang a joyous hymn of praise* and cried out to Him who worked wonders in you:* “The Queen stood at your right hand.”* God revealed you as a life-giving mother,* when He chose to be incarnate of you without a father.* He renewed in man His image* which the passions had corrupted.* He found the lost sheep in the mountains,* carried it on His shoulders,* offered it to the Father,* generously numbered it among the powers of heaven,* and saved the whole world, since He is Christ of great and rich mercy. [Prokeimenon] Readings (1) 1 John 1:1-7; (2) James 1:1-12; (3) Jude 1:1-25 Aposticha Tone 4 You have obtained invincible authority over demons, Apostle James,* and in the name of Christ power to drive away the princes of darkness.* You passed through the earth as a radiant sun enlightening all lands, glorious one:* preaching Christ’s first and second coming. Their proclamation has gone out into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the universe! James, you were a man of true action,* showing forth the original grace of divine, natural life.* You were called the son of the grace of God.* Because of the purity of your mind and your goodness,* you were manifest as a sincere disciple of Christ. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork! As a well-made instrument, apostle James,* you gave yourself to the calling in of the Gentiles.* You led them divinely, instructing them in the knowledge of Christ,* and by both deed and word,* you brought all to confess the true divine nature of Jesus,* who is the Saviour of our souls. Tone 5, Glory... We praise in faith, glorious James, the honourable day of your memory:* not because you are the son of Alpheus,* but because you are Christ’s apostle; a preacher of his ineffable incarnation.* Since you stand before the throne of the Master,* with the angels, the choirs of apostles and martyrs,* pray without ceasing that our Saviour and God will save us. Now… O most pure Virgin,* you are the temple, the gate, the palace, and the throne of the King.* Christ, our Redeemer and Lord,* appeared through you to those who slumbered in darkness.* For He, as the Sun of Righteousness,* wishes to enlighten those whom He created with His own hands* according to His own image.* Therefore, O Lady, whom we always praise in song,* we beseech you to intercede with Christ for the salvation of our souls;* for, as His Mother, you can approach Him with the greatest confidence. Troparia Tone 3 Holy apostle James, intercede with the merciful God* to grant to our souls* forgiveness of sins. Glory… Now… We sing your praises, O Virgin;* for, as the Mother of God, you always intercede for the salvation of the human race.* It is from you that our God and Your Son took flesh.* Then, by suffering the passion on the Cross,** and out of love for mankind, He delivered us from corruption. DIVINE LITURGY ON EDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 3: Holy apostle, James, intercede with the merciful God* to grant our souls* forgiveness of sins. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: With praises let us all extol James as a herald of God;* he firmly planted the doctrines of wisdom in the souls of the godly.* For he stands before the Master’s throne of glory* and rejoices with all the angels* unceasingly praying for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world. verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hand. Epistle 1 Corinthians 4:9-16 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: The heavens shall confess Your wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints. verse: God is glorified in the assembly of the saints. Gospel Luke 10:16-21 Communion Hymn Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia, * alleluia.:

Oct 8, 2024 - Our Venerable Mother Pelagia.

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 8, 2024 VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 3 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Perceiving in me a slothfulness toward profitable works,* the serpent of many shapes transforms itself,* luring me towards ever more bitter evils,* showing me the sweetness of sin,* by his own bitter activity,* which is opposed to the commandments of God.* And taking advantage of my wicked character,* forcing me to accept evils as good. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Having eagerly trodden the whole path of iniquity and sin,* and utterly departed from that which is straight,* I have now drawn nigh to the gates of death;* and, hemmed in, I cry aloud: О my supremely good Jesus, O path of our life,* turn me to the broad expanse of true repentance;* save and grant me correction;* and before my death, grant me divine forgiveness! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. I have been slain by diverse sins, by multitudes of transgressions and great misdeeds;* and I lie dead, truly helpless.* Only my hope in Your tender compassion remains alive, О Christ,* who grants both breath and life to the dead and slays the passions which kill us.* Wherefore, going before me, rescue me from everlasting death. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O all-glorious wonder!* Showing courage, a woman has trampled the enemy underfoot* and quenched the passions of the body through great abstinence.* Zealously taking the Cross of the Lord upon her shoulders,* Pelagia put off the burden of life’s possessions and followed after Christ* through the teachings of the wise Nonus. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You have been revealed to us as a new Thecla!* For, finding your teacher Nonus to be another Paul,* you accepted his teachings, O glorious one,* having fervently embraced repentance,* and through abstinence you joined yourself to Christ,* O all-blessed and most honoured Pelagia.* Wherefore, never cease to pray to Christ that we be saved. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Rejoice, O most honoured Pelagia!* For, most honourably enkindled by zeal divine,* you cast aside the pleasure of fornication, O all-blessed one,* and hastening to Nonus, cried aloud:* You must give answer for my deeds* if you will not seal me with the sign of Christ, O glorious one,* investing me through baptism with pure raiment! Tone 4, Glory… Where sin has increased, there grace abounds, as the Apostle teaches;* for in prayers and tears you dried up the abyss of many offenses, O Pelagia,* and finally brought to the Lord right acceptable repentance,* and therein pray for our souls. Now… Grant me tears from the depths of my heart,* sighing from the depths of my soul, О Maiden,* and contrition and confession of the transgressions I have committed in this life,* that by your help, О all-pure one*, I may pass my life in repentance and receive remission. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 The Lord hears me* when I cry out to Him. verse: Whenever I called, the God of my justice heard me. Aposticha Tone 3 Our evening hymn do we bring to You, O Christ,* with incense and spiritual songs,* have mercy on us and save our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Save me, O Lord my God for You are the salvation of all:* The storm of the passions disquiets me,* and the yoke of my transgressions weighs heavily upon me.* Stretch out Your helping hand and lead me up to the light of compunction,* for You alone are compassionate and the Lover of mankind. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Great is the power of Your martyrs, О Christ;* for while lying in their graves they drive evil spirits away;* and, having struggled for piety with their faith in the Trinity,* they abolished the authority of the enemy. Tone 3, Glory… Now… O Theotokos, holy among women, O Mother unwedded:* entreat the King and God whom you bore,* that He save us, insofar as He is the Lover of mankind. Troparia Tone 8 The image of God was truly preserved in you, Mother,* for you took up the Cross and followed Christ.* By so doing, you taught us to disregard the flesh, for it passes away;* but to care instead for the soul, since it is immortal.* Therefore your spirit, holy Mother Pelagia, rejoices with the angels! Glory… Now… With hymns of praise let us, the faithful, exalt the Mother of God,* the solid foundation of our faith* and the precious gift to our souls:* Rejoice, O woman who contained in your womb the Rock of life!* Rejoice, O hope of the world and helper of those who are in trouble!* Rejoice, O bride and Virgin forever! DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O mother,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh which passes* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* And so, O venerable woman, Pelagia,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: For love of the Lord, O venerable woman,* you scorned the desire for rest and enlightened your soul through fasting,* for you have mightily conquered the beasts.* Through your prayers thwart the rage of fiends. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 God is wonderful in His saints,* the God of Israel. verse: Bless God in the churches, the Lord from the fountains of Israel. (Psalm 67:36,27) Epistle Colossians 1:1,2,7-11 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: With expectation I have waited for the Lord, and he was attentive to me, and He heard my prayer. verse: He brought me out of the pit of misery and the mud of the swamp. (Psalm 39:2,3) Gospel Luke 8:1-3 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 7, 2024 - 🕃 The Holy Martyrs Sergius and Bacchus.

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 7, 2024 Saint with Six Stichera VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted tonight. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Having disdained all earthly might and come to hate the flesh,* you came to love our holy God;* and wearing a vesture of dishonor put upon you in mockery,* you have received garments of light from heaven* and robes which cannot be rent asunder.* Dancing therein, O crowned ones who are most rich,* be a veil of protection and raiment for all of us* who have been stripped bare of life* through the deception of the serpent. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Having disdained all earthly might and come to hate the flesh,* you came to love our holy God;* and wearing a vesture of dishonor put upon you in mockery,* you have received garments of light from heaven* and robes which cannot be rent asunder.* Dancing therein, O crowned ones who are most rich,* be a veil of protection and raiment for all of us* who have been stripped bare of life* through the deception of the serpent. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O all-glorious Sergius and all-praised Bacchus,* vessels of the Spirit, torrents pouring forth healings upon all,* our protectors and mighty champions of the Church,* voluntary sacrifices and honored victims,* beacons illumining the ends of the earth with the light of piety:* dispel the darkness which lies upon our souls* and drive away all the gloom of evil. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O all-glorious Sergius and all-praised Bacchus,* vessels of the Spirit, torrents pouring forth healings upon all,* our protectors and mighty champions of the Church,* voluntary sacrifices and honored victims,* beacons illumining the ends of the earth with the light of piety:* dispel the darkness which lies upon our souls* and drive away all the gloom of evil. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O glorious athletes, having issued forth from your corruptible bodies,* you received habitations which pass not away,* noetic gladness, never-waning light, and incorruptible life without care.* Yet pray that we also may receive these things who have been slain by the passions* and have turned aside to sin,* O Sergius and Bacchus, intercessors and havens for the faithful,* who pray with boldness in behalf of our souls. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O glorious athletes, having issued forth from your corruptible bodies,* you received habitations which pass not away,* noetic gladness, never-waning light, and incorruptible life without care.* Yet pray that we also may receive these things who have been slain by the passions* and have turned aside to sin,* O Sergius and Bacchus, intercessors and havens for the faithful,* who pray with boldness in behalf of our souls. Tone 4, Glory… Radiant and twofold is the effulgence of the martyrs Sergius and Bacchus,* for they cast down the savagery of the tormenters,* abolished the falsehood of idolatry* and, preaching with radiant voices, proclaimed the perfect mystery of divine knowledge.* Through their supplications, O Christ, O Giver of the law,* Judge of the contest and Bestower of crowns,* vouchsafe that we also may receive crowns of might* against the invisible powers of evil. Now… O all-immaculate one, who has surpassed the ranks of angels:* with the angels ever beseech Him who has dominion over the angels and all of creation,* that He grant us remission of sins, deliverance from the passions,* and make us, who hymn His glory, worthy inheritors of incorrupt sustenance. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 3 Our evening hymn do we bring to You, O Christ,* with incense and spiritual songs,* have mercy on us and save our souls. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Save me, O Lord my God, for You are the salvation of all:* The storm of the passions disquiets me,* and the yoke of my transgressions weighs heavily upon me.* Stretch out Your helping hand and lead me up to the light of compunction,* for You alone are compassionate and the Lover of mankind. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Great is the power of Your Cross, О Lord!* For it was planted in one place, yet works throughout the whole world;* making apostles of fishermen and martyrs of the heathen,* that they might pray for our souls. Tone 8, Glory… The array of Christ's martyrs has been fortified against the enemy;* and among them the right glorious and most excellent athletes Sergius and Bacchus shine like luminaries.* By them was the evil host of demons forced to turn in flight;* by them were the tyrants amazed and the angels astonished,* beholding the incorporeal foe trampled underfoot by corporeal men.* And the Church of the faithful, celebrating their most festive feast and universal joy, cries out:* O you who through the weakness of the flesh bound the mighty one,* save our souls through the prayers of Your saints! Now… Taking up the cry of the Archangel Gabriel, let us say:* Rejoice, O Mother of God, who has given birth to Christ,* the bestower of life upon the world! Troparia Tone 4 Your holy martyrs Sergius and Bacchus, Lord,* through their sufferings have received their incorruptible crowns from You, our God,* for having Your strength, they laid low their adversaries* and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.* Through their intercessions, save our souls! Glory… Now… Rejoice, O woman who at the angel’s greeting contained the Joy of the world!* Rejoice, for you gave birth to your Creator and Lord!* Rejoice, for you were made worthy to become the Mother of God. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle Philippians 4:10-23 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together. verse: For the Lord confers His blessing and life for ever. (Psalm 132:1,3) Gospel Luke 7:36-50 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Oct 6, 2024 - Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost. Octoechos Tone 3. 🕂 The Holy and Glorious Apostle Thomas.

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 6, 2024 Polyeleos Feast. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 3 Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name. By Your cross, O Christ our Saviour,* the power of Death has been vanquished* and the deceit of the devil has been destroyed.* Therefore, mankind, saved by faith,* offers You hymns of praise forever. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me. O Lord, all creation has been enlightened by Your resurrection,* and paradise has been reopened;* therefore, all creation extols You* and offers You hymns of praise forever. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! I glorify the power of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit;* and I praise the dominion of the undivided Divinity,* the consubstantial Trinity,* who reigns forever and ever. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. We adore Your precious cross, O Christ,* and with hymns of praise we glorify Your resurrection;* for by Your wounds we have all been healed. Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O most blessed one, when you touched the side of the Master* you grasped the most excellent of good things,* for like a sponge you soaked up waters therefrom,* the wellspring of blessings and life eternal* and moistened hearts dried up through unbelief,* pouring forth the dogmas of the divine knowledge of God. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O most blessed one, when you touched the side of the Master* you grasped the most excellent of good things,* for like a sponge you soaked up waters therefrom,* the wellspring of blessings and life eternal* and moistened hearts dried up through unbelief,* pouring forth the dogmas of the divine knowledge of God. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. By your faithful disbelief you assured the faithful,* having begun to speak of God,* that He is the God and Lord of all creation,* who took flesh for the sake of us on earth,* and endured the Cross and death,* the print of the nails, and the piercing of His side with a spear,* from where we draw forth life. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. By your faithful disbelief you assured the faithful,* having begun to speak of God,* that He is the God and Lord of all creation,* who took flesh for the sake of us on earth,* and endured the Cross and death,* the print of the nails, and the piercing of His side with a spear,* from where we draw forth life. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. The wondrous Thomas has disclosed the wellspring of dogmas to the divinely wise, O Master;* for, when he touched Your side* and was taught Your twofold energies through Your two Natures,* he rightly cried aloud:* You are my God and Master!* You are the Lord of glory,* who became flesh for my sake! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. The wondrous Thomas has disclosed the wellspring of dogmas to the divinely wise, O Master;* for, when he touched Your side* and was taught Your twofold energies through Your two Natures,* he rightly cried aloud:* You are my God and Master!* You are the Lord of glory,* who became flesh for my sake! Tone 6, Glory… As a servant of the Word and of His ineffable incarnation,* you drew forth an abyss of wisdom, O Apostle Thomas;* for luring souls from the depths of deception,* you drew them up with the pole of the Cross.* Hence, with the net of your dogmas, you have brought the whole world to enlightenment* and have illumined the souls of the benighted the people of India with the light of knowledge.* Radiantly delighting in the glories of Christ,* entreat Him to have mercy on our souls. Tone 3, Now… O Lady most honourable,* how could we but be rapt in wonder* at your giving birth to the Incarnate God* who, without a mother, was born of a Father before all ages?* You gave Him birth in the flesh without a father,* without a man’s instrumentality.* He is God and man whose two natures are intact,* neither one losing any of its properties.* Therefore, O Virgin Mother,* intercede with Him to save the souls* of those who believe and profess in true faith* that you are the Mother of God. 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. Readings (1) 1 John 1:1-7; (2) James 1:1-12; (3) Jude 1-25 Aposticha Tone 3 O Christ, who darkened the sun by Your passion* and enlightened all creation by Your resurrection,* accept our evening prayer; for You love mankind. The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength. O Lord, Your life-giving resurrection has enlightened the entire universe* and has revived Your creation which lay in corruption.* Therefore, we, who have been released from the curse of Adam, cry out to You:* Almighty Lord, glory to You! For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved. O God, although in Your divine nature You are unchangeable,* yet in Your human nature You underwent change by suffering in the flesh.* All creation was prostrate with fear* when it saw You hanging on the cross,* and it groaned in sorrow as it sang the praises of Your long-suffering.* But You descended into Hades and arose on the third day,* granting life and great mercy to the world. Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days. You suffered death, O Christ, to deliver mankind from death.* And when You arose from the dead on the third day,* You enlightened the world* and resurrected all who acknowledge You as God. Tone 6, Glory… Beholding the divine wisdom of Christ, you were mystically shown to be a noetic bowl* in which the souls of the faithful are gladdened, O Apostle Thomas;* for, with the divine net of the Spirit,* you drew men from the depths of wretchedness.* Hence, you went forth from Sion like a river of grace,* pouring forth your divine dogmas upon the whole world.* Therefore, emulating the sufferings of Christ, you were pierced in your side, entering the shade of incorruption.* Entreat Him that our souls be saved. 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 Tone 3 Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world. Tone 2, Glory… O disciple of Christ and member of the apostolic council,* your lack of faith proclaimed Christ’s resurrection,* and your touch confirmed His holy passion.* O Thomas, worthy of all praise,* pray even now that He grant us peace and great mercy. 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. GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 3 Troparia, Tone 3 Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world. (2) Tone 2, Glory… O disciple of Christ and member of the apostolic council,* your lack of faith proclaimed Christ’s resurrection,* and your touch confirmed His holy passion.* O Thomas, worthy of all praise,* pray even now that He grant us peace and great mercy. 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. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 3 Christ has arisen from the dead, the first fruits of those that sleep.* The First-born of creation and Creator of all that has come to be,* has renewed in Himself the corrupted nature of our race.* Death, no longer is your lord,* for the Master of all things has destroyed your dominion. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. Having tasted death in the flesh, O Lord,* You have blotted out the bitterness of death by Your arising* strengthening mankind against it, and announcing the abolition of the ancient curse.* Defender of our lives, O Lord, glory be to You! Glory… Now… Awed by the beauty of your virginity* and the exceeding radiance of your purity,* Gabriel called out to you, O Theotokos:* What worthy hymn of praise can I offer to you?* And what shall I name you?* I am in doubt and stand in awe.* Wherefore as commanded, I cry to you:* Rejoice, O Full of Grace. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 3 Awed by Your immutable Godhead* and by Your voluntary passion, O Lord,* Hades lamented: I tremble at Your body’s essence, which remains incorrupt.* I behold You, the One who is invisible, mystically making war against me;* wherefore those whom I hold cry out:* ‘Glory, O Christ, to Your Resurrection!’ I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. We the faithful contemplate an ineffable mystery:* Your incomprehensible Crucifixion and Your inexplicable Arising.* For today Death and Hades have been despoiled,* but mankind has been clothed in incorruption.* Wherefore with thanksgiving we cry aloud to You:* Glory, O Christ, to Your Resurrection! Glory… Now… Mystically did you contain in your womb* the Incomprehensible and Uncircumscribed One,* consubstantial with the Father and the Spirit;* and we acknowledge in your Offspring one unconfused energy of the Trinity Who is glorified in the world.* And so with thanksgiving we cry to you, ** ‘Rejoice, O full of grace!’ Polyeleos Evlogitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 3 A Cause of amazement by his appearance,* and source of refreshment by his speech,* the radiant Angel spoke to the myrrh-bearing women saying:* Why do you seek the living in a grave?* He has arisen, emptying the graves.* Know that the unchangeable One has changed corruption.* Wherefore cry to God saying,* ‘How fearful are Your works!* For You have saved mankind.’ Sessional Hymns Tone 5 With hymns let us all praise the memory of the apostle and disciple of Christ,* for, having in godly manner touched the print of the nails and sought out the true faith,* he has made our thoughts steadfast in the world* and beseeches the Saviour that our souls find mercy. Tone 4 Having touched the Saviour’s side* and drawn forth from there knowledge of God, O glorious apostle,* by your disbelief you have drawn those of earth to the Faith as faithful;* and having been pierced with spears throughout your whole body,* you enlighten the souls of all that praise thy holy repose. Tone 3 With the radiance of the Spirit of God* you destroyed the darkness of polytheism and illumined the hearts of the faithful,* chanting the commandments of salvation, O most wise Apostle Thomas.* Beseech Christ God, that He grant us great mercy. Glory… Now… Every one that seeks salvation rightly makes haste to a place where such is found.* And what refuge that gives shelter to our souls* have we other than you, O Theotokos? Hymn of Ascent, Tone 3 Antiphon 1 You, O Word, delivered the captivity of Sion from Babylon,* Deliver me also* from the passions to life. Those who sow in the South* with tears inspired by God,* shall in joy reap sheaves of everlasting life. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit,* together with the Father and the Son* shines forth the reflection of every good gift,* In Him all things live and have their being. Antiphon 2 Except the Lord build the house of the virtues,* in vain do we labour.* While He protects our soul no one lays waste our city. The Saints, O Christ, fruits of the womb,* are by the Spirit, always sons to You,* as You are to the Father. Glory… Now… The Holy Spirit is the inspiration of all that is holy and wise;* for He quickens every creature.* Let us worship Him* together with the Father and the Son, for He is God. Antiphon 3 Those who fear the Lord are blessed* as they walk along the paths of His commandments;* for they partake of the life-giving fruit. Be glad, Chief Shepherd,* beholding Your offspring around Your table* bearing the branches of good works. Glory… Now… In the Holy Spirit is a superabundance of glory;* for from Him proceeds forth grace and life* into all creation;* wherefore He is praised together with the Father and the Word. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 Proclaim to the nations: God is king. The world He made firm in its place. verse: O sing a new song to the Lord, sing to the Lord all the earth. Let everything that lives, Tone 3 Gospel John 20:19-31 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 3 Ode 1 Irmos: In time past by his divine command he gathered the waters into one heap* and divided the sea for the people of Israel:* this is our God, he is glorious,* to him alone we sing, for he is glorified. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He condemned the earth to bring forth thorns, fruit of the transgressor’s sweat; he received in the flesh a crown of thorns from the hands of lawless men : this is our God, he has done away with the curse, he is glorified. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. He whom death smote is declared the conqueror who won the victory over death; for taking living flesh subject to suffering, he wrestled with the tyrant and raised up all with himself: he is our God, he is glorified. Most holy Theotokos, save us! All nations glorify you, true Mother of God, who seedlessly bore your child; for he, our God, stole down into your hallowed womb and, invested with our being, God and man was born of you. Irmos: O You that were born of the Virgin,* drown, I pray You, the three parts of my soul in the depths of dispassion,* as of old You drowned the mounted captains of Pharaoh,* that in the mortality of my body, as on a timbrel, I may sing a hymn of victory. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! The unoriginate Son of God, God the Word, who appeared on earth in a form like ours, whom you beheld, and whose hands and side you touched, O glorious one, beseech Him that He save your flock. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Jesus, my God, who knows that which is hidden, who tries the reins and tests hearts, chose you to be a divine apostle and a minister and witness of His manifestation as God, O most blessed Thomas. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! You were shown to be a river of mystic waters falling with streams of divine knowledge and the din of the Spirit upon the face of the earth, the assembly of the Church, dispelling the deception of polytheism. Glory… Now… O all-hymned Theotokos, destroyer of death and corruption, you gave birth to Christ, the Source of incorruption, who has adorned human nature with the grace of immortality, O all-pure one. Katavasia: I shall open my mouth, and the Spirit will inspire it,* and I shall utter the words of my song to the Queen and Mother:* I shall be seen radiantly keeping feast* and joyfully praising her wonders. Ode 3 Irmos: Almighty Lord,* you brought all things from nothing into being,* created by the Word, perfected by the Spirit.* Make me firm in your love. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The ungodly man was brought to shame by your cross; he dug a pit and opened it up and fell into it himself; the horn of the lowly, O Christ, is lifted up in your resurrection. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The proclamation of righteousness to the nations as water has covered the seas, O Lover of man, for you have risen from the grave and revealed the splendour of the Trinity. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Glorious things are spoken of you, the living city of the King who reigns for ever. For through you, O Lady, God dwelt among those on earth. Irmos: Neither in wisdom, nor in power, nor yet in riches do we boast,* but in You, O Christ, the hypostatic Wisdom of the Father,* for none is holy, save You,* O Lover of mankind. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Splendid in the excellence of virtue and miracles, O you that beheld Christ, and having illumined the shapeless darkness of the people of India with divine light, you enlightened them with faith. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Ablaze with radiance through the activity of the Spirit Himself, you were launched like a bolt of divine light, O you that were pleasing to God, and enlightened the world with miracles, O Thomas. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Instructed in the mysteries of the dogmas of divine wisdom, which surpasses the swiftness of lightning, O Apostle Thomas, illumined the ends of the earth with light. Glory… Now… O you that knew not wedlock, who gave birth to God in the flesh, make me steadfast who am shaken by the assaults of the passions, for I have no other helper, save you, O all-pure one. Katavasia: O Mother of God, living and plentiful fount,* give strength to those united in spiritual fellowship,* who sing hymns of praise to you:* and in your divine glory vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory. Kontakion, Tone 4 Filled with the grace of wisdom,* Your apostle and genuine servant, O Christ,* cried out to You in his change of heart:* You are my God and Lord. Ikos Peter cried out to the divinely eloquent Thomas, the disciple of the Lord and great initiate of the mysteries: We have seen the Lord! And his friend said to him and cried out: Except I see the wounds of His hands, I will not believe. Then the Master of all came as a servant, wishing to save all, and said to Thomas: Touch My hands and side, and be not unbelieving; for I am your Lord and God. And he, in repentance, cried out: You are my Lord and God! Sessional Hymn, Tone 8 Seining for reason-endowed fish with the net of divine words,* you offered them to our God as first-fruits;* and, wishing to be arrayed in the wounds of Christ,* you showed yourself to be an emulator of His suffering.* Wherefore, assembling together, we honour your all-festive memory as is meet, O glorious apostle,* and with one accord we cry out to You:* Entreat Christ God, that He grant remission of sins* to them that honour your holy memory with love. (2) Glory… Now… All we, the generations of mankind, bless you who without seed gave birth to God in the flesh,* as her who alone among women was Virgin;* for the fire of the Godhead made its abode within you,* and you gave suck to our Lord and Creator as a babe.* Hence, we, the race of angels and of men, glorify your all-holy birthgiving as is meet,* and with one accord cry out to you:* Entreat Christ God that He grant remission of transgressions to them* that with faith worship your all-holy birthgiving. Ode 4 Irmos: A mighty love you have shown to us, O Lord,* for you have given over to death for us your only-begotten Son;* therefore we thank you and cry to you:* Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Scars and bruises compassionately bearing, insult of blows enduring, long-patient under the spitting, O Christ; through these you have wrought my salvation. Glory to your power, O Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Life in mortal body, you conversed with deatiaor the sake of the misery of the poor and the sighing of the needy; and. destroying the destroyer, O glorified One, you raised up all with yourself, only Lover of man. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Remember, O Christ, your flock won by your Passion: visit the afflicted, accept the compassionate prayers of your Mother glorified and save it, O Lord, by your power. Irmos: Seated in glory upon the throne of the Cherubim,* Jesus most divine is come on a light cloud,* and with His incorrupt right arm has saved them that cry out:* Glory to Your power, O Christ! Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Beginning with a most magnificent manifestation of wonders, and radiantly propounding the glory of the divine dogmas, with your preaching you embraced the whole world, which cried out: Glory to Your power, O Christ! Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! O blessed and most honoured Thomas, we praise you as one who himself beheld the Word, and who are an apostle and a fervent minister and witness to His glory and majesty. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Having set a foundation firmly upon the chief Cornerstone, O blessed and ever all memorable one, you built a bridal chamber and a heavenly tabernacle for them that cry: Glory to Your power, O Christ! Glory… Now… We call the all-holy Virgin the unploughed soil which put forth the Grain of life, the light cloud which let fall the Bestower of life as a shower, crying: Glory to Your power, O Christ! Katavasia: He who sits in glory upon the throne of the Godhead,* Jesus the true God, is come in a swift cloud* and with His sinless hands he has saved those who cry:* Glory to Your power, O Christ. Ode 5 Irmos: Early I wake to you the Creator of all* and the peace which passes all understanding:* guide me in your ordinances,* for they are light. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Through the envy of the Jews handed over to an unrighteous judge, you, the all-seeing who judges all the earth in righteousness, delivered Adam from the ancient condemnation. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Christ, risen from the dead, grant peace to your churches in the invincible power of your cross, and save our souls. Glory… Now… You alone, the Ever-virgin who received the Word of God unbounded by the whole creation, are declared the holy tabernacle wider than the heavens. Irmos: The impious do not perceive Your glory, O Christ;* but, waking at dawn out of the night, O Only-begotten One, we hymn You,* the Radiance of the Father's glory,* O Lover of mankind. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Radiant with the glory of Christ, O apostle, having touched the life-creating side, you drew forth an unfathomable abyss of theology and enriched the world. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! O greatly Merciful One, Thomas, who had not been present at Your first entrance, did not believe the disciples, but, believing later, rejoicing, he cried out, proclaiming You God and Lord. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Like an animate heaven Thomas proclaimed Your glory with spiritual thunder, O Christ, and confessing You to be God and Lord, he announced the glad tidings to the faithful. Glory… Now… O all-undefiled one, show forth our mind to be a vanquisher of the passions, and put down the assaults of the thoughts thereof, O Bride of God, who gave birth to God, the Saviour of our souls. Katavasia: The whole world was amazed* at your divine glory:* for you, O Virgin who have not known wedlock,* have held in your womb the God of all* and have given birth to an eternal Son,* who rewards with salvation all who sing your praises. Ode 6 Irmos: The deepest abyss of sins has surrounded me* and my spirit fails me;* but stretch out your mighty arm, O Lord my pilot, as to Peter,* and save me. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The abyss of mercy and pity has surrounded me in your tender descent, O Lord, for, made flesh and taking the form of a servant, you made me as God and glorified me with yourself. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The one who dealt death has undergone death through seeing the One put to death now brought to life: these things are the tokens of your Resurrection, O Christ, and the rewards of your pure Passion. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Only All-pure, beyond understanding you were mediator between the Creator and man, pray to your merciful Son for your stumbling servants and be our defender. Irmos: I shall sacrifice to You with a voice of praise,* the Church cries out to You, O Lord,* cleansed of the blood of demons through the Blood which, for mercy's sake,* flowed from Your side. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! O blessed Thomas, your disbelief heals the soul-destroying disbelief of all, for without doubt you probed the wounds made by the nails and the spear. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! O Christ, as You are powerful, You launched Your apostle like a speeding arrow into the hearts of Your enemies, and he has brought them to You as spoils of war. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! O compassionate one, you abolished idolatrous sacrifices, being yourself slain on a tree, and by the holy sacrifices of the divinely inspired apostles who emulated your sufferings. Glory… Now… O wonder more novel than all wonders! As a Virgin, without knowing man, conceiving in your womb Him that holds all things, yet did not confine Him. Katavasia: As we celebrate* this sacred and solemn feast of the Mother of God,* let us come, clapping our hands, O people of the Lord,* and give glory to God who was born of her. Kontakion, Tone 3 You rose from the tomb, O compassionate Lord,* and led us out from the gates of death.* Today Adam exults and Eve rejoices,* and the prophets together with the patriarchs* unceasingly acclaim the divine might of Your power. Ikos Let heaven and earth dance together today and with one mind sing to Christ God for he has raised from the graves those held in bonds. All creation rejoices together and brings to our Creator and Redeemer of all its fitting songs. For today, as giver of life, with himself he drew mortal man from Hell and lifts him up to heaven, he dashes down the pride of the enemy and breaks in pieces the gates of Hell by the divine might of his authority. Ode 7 Irmos: As, long ago, your dew refreshed the three godly children in the Chaldean flames,* so shine with the enlightening fire of your Godhead* upon us who cry to you:* Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The fair veil of the temple was rent in the cross of the Creator, clearly announcing the hidden truth in the scriptures to the faithful who cry to you: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. When your side was pierced, O Christ, drops of your life-giving blood, flowing from God by divine dispensation, distilled upon the earth and re-made those born of the earth who cry to you: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Let us the faithful glorify the Good Spirit with the Father and the only-begotten Son, one in three, as we worship the first cause and one Godhead, crying: Blessed are you, God of our fathers. Irmos: The children of Abraham in the Persian furnace,* aflame more with love of piety than with the fire,* cried out: Blessed are You* in the temple of Your glory, O Lord! Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! As an apostle, rejoicing, you hold chorus with the choirs on high in the heavens, O blessed one, and you chant in gladness: Blessed are You in the temple of Your glory, O Lord! Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! From one end of the earth to the other have has proclamation and the utterance of your divine words passed, teaching them that cry: Blessed are You in the temple of Your glory, O Lord! Glory… Now… By your birthgiving have we been delivered from slavery to the Law, for you, O Theotokos, without knowing man, gave birth to the Deliverer for us. Blessed are you among women, O all-undefiled Mistress! Katavasia: The holy children bravely trampled upon the threatening fire,* refusing to worship created things in place of the Creator,* and they sang in joy:* Blessed are You and praised above all, O Lord God of our Fathers. Ode 8 Irmos: In the unbearable fire, unharmed by the flames,* the young men, famed for their fear of God, stood as one and sang the divine hymn:* Bless the Lord, all you his works,* and exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The brightness of the temple was rent when your cross was set on Golgotha: all creation bowed down together and raised the song: Bless the Lord, all you his works, and exalt him throughout all the ages. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You have risen, Christ, from the grave, by the divine power of the cross you have raised man overthrown by treachery and set him straight again, crying out and saying: Bless the Lord, all you his works, and exalt him throughout all the ages. Most holy Theotokos, save us! You are declared to be the temple of God, living resting-place and ark, for you, pure Mother of God, have reconciled the Creator to mortal man and fittingly we his works sing your praises and exalt you throughout all the ages. Irmos: The Offspring of the Theotokos saved the pious children in the furnace,* then in figure, but now in deed;* and He moves all the world to sing to You:* Hymn the Lord, O works, and exalt Him supremely forever! Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Conversing with God incarnate, forgetting the flesh, O blessed one, you have been enriched with supra-normal deification, rendered divine by your closeness to God, and crying out: Hymn the Lord, O works, and exalt Him supremely forever! Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Uniting yourself to Christ with love, you loved to die with Him, O blessed one, proclaiming to your fellow apostles: Come, let us accept death with Him, crying out: Hymn the Lord, O works, and exalt Him supremely forever! Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! O apostles, Christ has shown you to be clouds full of the rain of His will which waters the Church with showers of divine knowledge, O most wise ones, and give drink to them that sing: Hymn the Lord, O works, and exalt Him supremely forever! Glory… Now… O you that are devoid of lusts and defilement, you are the temple of the All-holy Word who sanctifies all things, and who is co-unoriginate with the Father. Wherefore, O Virgin, we hymn and supremely exalt you forever. We praise, we bless, we worship the Lord. We extol and exalt Him above all for ever. Katavasia: The Offspring of the Theotokos saved the holy children in the furnace.* He who was then prefigured has since been born on earth,* and He gathers all the creation to sing:* O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord and exalt Him above all for ever. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: Marvel new and meet for God!* Through the shut gate of the Virgin the Lord surely passes through.* Unclothed in the entering, flesh-bearing in the coming forth* God has appeared and the gate remains fast closed.* We magnify her beyond utterance* the Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. O Word of God, awful it is to see you, the Creator, hanging on the tree, God suffering in human fashion for the sake of his servants; while lying lifeless in the tomb you yet had loosed the dead from Hell; for this, O Christ, we magnify you as almighty. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Laid dead in the grave, O Christ, you saved our forefathers from the corruption of death; you raised the dead and made life to blossom and, leading mortal nature by the hand to the light, you clothed it with divine incorruptibility; for this we magnify you, fountain of ever-living light. Most holy Theotokos, save us! Temple and throne of God you are declared to be, All-pure, wherein he who dwells in the highest took up his abode, born without man and guarding entire the doors of your flesh. Holy One, by your unceasing prayers bring swiftly the nations in final subjection to our king. Irmos: Christ, who has united the two disparate Natures,* the Chief Cornerstone uncut by human hands,* was cut from you, the unquarried mountain, O Virgin.* Wherefore, in gladness we magnify you, O Theotokos. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! O glorious one, you were shown to be a splendid chariot bearing the Word seated upon your most comely and God-bearing soul, directing to salvation them that hymn you. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! Celebrating your most blessed memory, we pray that we may be delivered from every threefold wave by the boldness which you have as an apostle of Christ, O all-honoured beholder of God. Holy Apostle Thomas, pray to God for us! This day do we all celebrate thy memory, O Apostle Thomas; sanctify and forgive us, delivering us by faith from all temptations, evil circumstances, and passions through thy prayers. Glory… Now… From the soil of the Virgin has God the Word, the comely Ear of grain, sprung forth, whereof tasting O faithful, we live and are established in Him. Wherefore, you, who gave Him birth, we magnify you. Katavasia: Let every mortal born on earth,* radiant with light, in spirit leap for joy;* and let the host of the angelic powers* celebrate and honour the holy feast of the Mother of God,* and let them cry:* Rejoice! Pure and blessed Ever-Virgin, who gave birth to God. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light Though the doors were locked, O Lord,* You entered and filled Your apostles with the Holy Spirit,* and breathing over them, You gave them Your peace.* You said to them: Whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven;* whose sins you bind, they are bound.* After eight days You showed Thomas Your hands and Your side.* With them, therefore, we cry to You: You are my Lord and my God! O apostle of the all-compassionate Christ, thou who thyself didst behold Him: entreat Him to grant peace unto all the world, victory over heresy and schism unto Christ-loving hierarchs, and salvation and remission of transgressions unto them that praise thee as a divinely eloquent disciple, O Thomas. Glory… O glory of the apostles, like the most radiant sun of the east, thou wast sent to the people of India, and thou didst illumine them with the light of thy words and by faith in the Trinity. Wherefore, we celebrate thy holy and divine memory. Now… We, the faithful, bring before Thee as is meet Thine all-holy Mother as an intercessor and fervent helper, O Christ. Vouchsafe Thy servants to share in Thy glory and the inheritance of the righteous and the food of paradise; and grant us the Kingdom of heaven. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 3 Come all you nations,* acknowledge the power of the dread mystery;* for Christ our Saviour, the beginningless Word,* was crucified for us and was willingly buried* and arose from the dead to save the whole universe.* Let us worship Him. You guards recounted all the marvels, O Lord,* but, by filling their right hands with money,* the Sanhedrin of folly thought to conceal Your Resurrection,* which the world glorifies;* have mercy upon us. All things have been filled with joy on receiving proof of the Resurrection.* For Mary Magdalene having come to the tomb,* found an Angel seated upon the stone,* radiant in shining raiment, saying:* Why do you seek the living among the dead?* He is not here, but He has arisen, as He foretold,* and goes before you into Galilee. In Your light, O Master and Lover of mankind,* shall we see light.* For arose from the dead,* granting salvation to the race of mankind,* wherefore all creation glorifies You, the only sinless one;* have mercy upon us. Tone 1 You followed after Christ, O Apostle Thomas, and disdained the world.* And laying up His teachings in your treasury, you were shown to be an apostle.*Being amongst pagans, souls darkened by their deception and passions you illumined with the Saviour's commandments* that they might believe in the consubstantial Trinity. You followed after Christ, O Apostle Thomas, and disdained the world.* And laying up His teachings in your treasury, you were shown to be an apostle.*Being amongst pagans, souls darkened by their deception and passions you illumined with the Saviour's commandments* that they might believe in the consubstantial Trinity. Tone 4 You enlightened your mind with the divine fire of the Master,* as a lawful disciple, O Apostle Thomas;* for with the Cross as a rod you drew the souls of the impious, from the depths of ignorance.* Wherefore, with the rod of the divine Spirit* you even fished to enlighten the darkened conscience of those in India.* Ever beseech Christ God, that we be delivered from the sight of the dark enemy,* and that our souls be saved. Abandoning the depths which were fished,* with faith you hastened to the rod of the Cross,* and there you fished for men, O Apostle Thomas.* Wherefore, having touched the all-pure side of the Word,* you were vouchsafed also to feel with your finger the wounds of the nails’ entry.* Entreat earnestly Christ God that He save our souls. Tone 5, Glory… In the fullness of time, O Christ,* You appeared among Your beloved ones on the Sabbath evening.* And through a new wonder,* You confirmed Your resurrection from the dead* by Your entrance while the doors were closed.* You filled the disciples with joy,* granting them the Holy Spirit and bestowing on them power to forgive sins.* As for Thomas, You did not permit him to drown in the depths of faithlessness.* Therefore, grant us the knowledge of the truth* and forgiveness of sins, O compassionate Lord. 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 Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 3: Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice,* for the Lord has done a mighty deed with His arm.* He trampled death by death. He became the first-born of the dead;* He saved us from the abyss of Hades* and granted great mercy to the world. Troparion, Tone 2: O disciple of Christ and member of the apostolic council,* your lack of faith proclaimed Christ’s resurrection,* and your touch confirmed His holy passion.* O Thomas, worthy of all praise,* pray even now that He grant us peace and great mercy. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 3: You rose from the tomb, O compassionate Lord,* and led us out from the gates of death.* Today Adam exults and Eve rejoices,* and the prophets together with the patriarchs* unceasingly acclaim the divine might of Your power. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Filled with the grace of wisdom,* Your apostle and genuine servant, O Christ,* cried out to You in his change of heart:* You are my God and Lord. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 Sing to our God, sing; sing to our King, sing. verse: Clap your hands, all you nations; shout unto God with the voice of joy. (Psalm 46:7,2) Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. Epistle Galatians 1:11-19; 1 Corinthians 4:9-16 Alleluia, Tone 3 verse: In You, O Lord, have I hoped that I may not be put to shame for ever. verse: Be a protector unto me, O God, and a house of refuge to save me. (Psalm 30:2,3) verse: The heavens shall confess our wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints. Gospel Luke 7:11-16; John 20:19-31 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5):

Oct 5, 2024 - The Holy Martyr Charitina.

Sat, 05 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 5, 2024 VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. As the namesake of joy you have passed over with joy* to the heavenly bridal-chamber, O most honoured one,* where, having truly endured the painful torment of fire* and the uprooting of all your teeth and nails,* you desired to acquire Your dwelling-place, O athlete Charitina,* much suffering virgin martyr. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You broke the jaws of the lions, O much suffering one,* enduring the breaking of your own jaw,* and you bore valiantly bear the rending away of your nails,* uprooting the cruel savagery of deception;* and, cast into the depths of the sea,* you drowned the malice of the wicked adversary. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. After your blessed end, your father received you, O glorious one,* who had been cast into the sea;* and he cried out in awe:* What grace has been bestowed upon you, O my most sacred and beloved child,* through the torments of your honoured suffering!* Truly you have justified your name, which signifies grace! Tone 2 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Giving your flesh over to wounds* and enduring most bitter torments and violent death, О all-praised martyrs,* you put the tyrants to shame and truly abolished the worship of idols,* preaching Christ, the one God and Master,* before Whom ye stand crowned, О glorious ones,* together with the angelic hosts. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Giving your flesh over to wounds* and enduring most bitter torments and violent death, О all-praised martyrs,* you put the tyrants to shame and truly abolished the worship of idols,* preaching Christ, the one God and Master,* before Whom ye stand crowned, О glorious ones,* together with the angelic hosts. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You revealed yourselves to be divine preachers of the Word who appeared on earth,* and taught piety to all, setting forth the orthodox faith in divine words,* whereby you drove heresy far from the Church of Christ.* Wherefore, you ever dwell in the habitations of God, О blessed ones,* as sacred ministers of the Trinity,* leading into it all mankind. Tone 2, Glory… 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. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Aposticha Tone 2 O you saints great is the glory,* that you have gained through your faith.* For not only by your sufferings were you victorious over the enemy;* but even after death, as physicians of body and soul,* you drive out evil spirits and bring healing to the infirm.* Intercede before the Lord,* that mercy be granted to our souls. Blessed are they whom You have chosen* and taken to Yourself, О Lord As a flower withers and a dream passes away,* so does the flesh of each man dissipate upon death.* But at the sound of the trumpet* all the dead as if in an earthquake shall rise up again to meet You, O Christ our God.* Grant then, O Master, to all Your servants* whom You have taken from us,* to eternally dwell in the tabernacles of Your saints. Their souls shall dwell* amid good things. Woe is me! How great a struggle does the soul endure at its parting from the body.* Woe is me! How many tears does it shed,* but there is no one to take pity.* Turning its eyes to the angels, it supplicates in vain;* stretching out its hands to men, it finds none to help.* Therefore, my beloved brethren,* reflecting upon the shortness of our life,* let us ask Christ to grant rest to the departed* and to our souls great mercy. Tone 2, Glory… Now… Save from misfortunes, your servants, O Virgin Theotokos,* for after God it is to you that we flee,* as to an impregnable rampart and protection. Troparia Tone 4 Your lamb, Charitina, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy save our souls. 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,* and saved our souls from death. DIVINE LITURGY ON STAURDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Your lamb, Charitina, O Jesus, cries in a loud voice:* “You, O my Bridegroom, I love; and, seeking You, I undergo martyrdom.* And with You I am crucified and buried in Your baptism,* and I suffer for Your sake that I may reign with You.* And I die on Your behalf that I may live in You.* Receive me as a spotless sacrifice,* sacrificed for You with love.”* Through her intercession in Your mercy 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 2: We, all the faithful, have found your shrine to be a place of spiritual healing,* and we cry aloud to you: “O glorious virgin martyr, Charitina,* pray unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us!” Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him. verse: Hear, O God, my voice when I make my petition to You. (Psalm 63:11,2) Epistle 2 Corinthians 1:8-11 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just man shall flourish like the palm tree; and he shall grow like the cedar in Lebanon. verse: They who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish the courts of our God. (Psalm 91:13,14) Gospel Luke 5:27-32 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 4, 2024 - The Holy Hieromartyr Hierotheus, Bishop of Athens Οur Venerable Father Francis of Assisi.

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 4, 2024 Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. When You were nailed to the Cross, О Saviour,* the sun beheld and dimmed its rays in fear of You,* and the veil of the temple was rent in two;* the earth quaked, and the stones likewise split asunder with trembling,* unable to bear the sight of their Creator and God willingly suffering unjustly upon the Tree,* and reviled by men. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. When the Cross was set up and You were pierced in the side with the spear, О Sinless Saviour,* the sun hid itself, unable to bear the sight;* the earth trembled, and when You were reviled, the rocks split asunder in fear;* and all creation cried out to You:* Glory be to Your crucifixion whereby You have saved all,* О Word and Lover of mankind! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Wholly cast down to the ground, wholly wounded,* the most wicked serpent was brought low by a strange fall* when You were uplifted upon the Tree, О Lover of mankind.* And Adam who before was condemned* was loosed from the curse and became saved.* Wherefore, we also pray: Save us all, О Compassionate One,* and grant us Your kingdom! Tone 4 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Receiving the grace of the most holy Spirit,* O most glorious Hierotheus,* you have now passed through all the earth,* teaching men to worship the Unity in three Hypostases:* the unoriginate Father, * the Source of the Godhead,* and with Him the Son Who is equally enthroned* and consubstantial with the Father,* Who was born of the Virgin* and became a man bearing flesh. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. As one pleasing to God* you offered up your soul as a sacred and divine gift,* and committed your sacred body as a thing divine,* which hallowed the souls of those who believe in God Almighty,* and poured forth salvation upon the faithful.* Wherefore, we bless your memory and burial,* we love your miracles and proclaim thy words. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You beheld the twelve apostles* at the dormition of the all-glorious Ever-virgin,* the all-pure Theotokos, the Mother of the Lord,* and with you was Dionysius, who described the hierarchies.* With them we, the faithful,* bless your most festive and all-holy solemnity, O glorious Hierotheus. Tone 2, Glory… When you were present at the divine dormition of the Mother of God,* O blessed herald of God,* you gladdened the hearts of the faithful with divine proclamations,* delighting the sacred company of the apostles, the preachers of God,* and hymning the mysteries of God with divine ecstasy.* Wherefore, having received boldness before Christ, O hierarch Hierotheus,* pray in behalf of our souls. Now… When the unblemished ewe-lamb beheld her Lamb* willingly led as a man to the slaughter,* she said, weeping:* “Do You now hasten to leave me childless who gave You birth, O Christ,?* What is this that You have done, O Redeemer of all?* Even so I will hymn and glorify Your extreme goodness,* which is beyond understanding and all telling,* O Lover of mankind!” Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone 2 О Christ God my Saviour, who saved Peter in the sea,* save me by the power of the Cross,* and have mercy on me. In the morning, fill us with Your love; we shall exult and rejoice all our days. Give us joy to balance our affliction for the years when we knew misfortune. Show forth Your work to Your servants; let Your glory shine on their children. They who ever enjoyed Your gifts cried aloud, “Crucify Him!”;* they who slew the righteous ones asked that a malefactor be released to them in place of the Benefactor.* But You kept silence, О Christ, enduring their savagery,* desiring to suffer and thus save us,* in that You love mankind. Let the favour of the Lord be upon us: give success to the work of our hands, give success to the work of our hands. Having hated the pleasures of life,* the passion-bearers were deemed worthy of the good things of heaven* and have made their abode together with the angels.* By their prayers, О Lord, have mercy and save us. Tone 2, Glory… Now… When iniquitous men raised You, the Life of all, up upon the Tree, О Saviour,* Your pure and most immaculate Mother,* standing forth and lamenting, exclaimed:* “O my sweet Child, light of my eyes, woe is me!* How have You suffered to be nailed to the Cross between two evildoers,* О You who have suspended the earth upon the waters?” Troparia Tone 4 Having shared the way of life of the apostles,* and having become a successor to their thrones,* labouring you found the divinely inspired way to contemplation.* Therefore, forthrightly ministering the word of truth,* you shed your blood for the faith, O hieromartyr Hierotheus.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory… Now… O Virgin, all immaculate Mother of Christ God,* a sword pierced your all-holy soul* when you saw your Son and God willingly crucified.* Therefore, O blessed One,* never cease to pray to Him* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Having shared the way of life of the apostles,* and having become a successor to their thrones,* labouring you found the divinely inspired way to contemplation.* Therefore, forthrightly ministering the word of truth,* you shed your blood for the faith, O hieromartyr, Hierotheus.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Having piously lived among the hierarchs,* and having trod the path of suffering,* you extinguished the sacrifices to idols* and were a defender for your flock, O godly one.* Therefore, venerating you, we sincerely cry to you:* “Rescue us from dangers by your prayers, O our father, Hierotheus. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The venerable ones will exult in glory and they shall be joyful in their beds. verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; let His praise be in the assembly of the venerable ones. (Psalm 149:5,1) Epistle Philippians 3:8-19 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Your priests shall clothe themselves with justice, and Your venerable ones shall rejoice. verse: For the Lord has chosen Sion; He has chosen it for His dwelling. (Psalm 131:9,13) Gospel Luke 7:31-35 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 3, 2024 - 🕃 The Holy Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite.

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 3, 2024 VESPERS ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Having entered in mind into the innermost darkness of the unapproachable light,* you learned the divine enigmas of the Word, O sacred Dionysius, disciple of Christ,* and on earth you manifestly explained* the ranks of the angels. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Having made your soul luminous with rays of three-fold splendour* and your body with withering material fire, O father,* you passed over to immaterial radiance and joined the angels.* With them unceasingly pray for us,* that our souls be saved. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Having become eminent in the Church of God by your pastorship,* you made your a receptacle of the grace of the Spirit, O father.* Wherefore, O Dionysius, you ever pour forth healings upon us,* like water from your precious shrine. 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. The divine Paul, speaking forth publicly,* fished for you with the hook of grace, O wise one,* and made you a teacher of the sacred mysteries* and a beholder of ineffable things,* seeing in you a chosen vessel.* With him pray, O right eloquent Dionysius,* that those who hymn you with love be saved. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Having made your mind equal to that of the angels* for the sake of virtue, O most wise father Dionysius,* you wrote a sacred account of the heavenly order of their hierarchies,* and there aligned the ranks of the Church’s organization,* likening them to the ranks of heaven. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Making yourself like unto God through meditation,* as far as you were able, O blessed Dionysius,* with piety you mystically disseminated your godly treatise on the divine names;* and, achieving unity through a higher union,* you learned things which pass man's understanding* and taught the ends of the world. Tone 2, Glory… Come, O faithful, and together let us praise the annual memorial of the hierarchs Dionysius and Cyprian;* for the one, having spit upon the Stoic philosophers* and been taught by the chosen vessel,* became an adept of ineffable mysteries;* and the other, having illumined his thoughts for the sake of the good virgin Justina,* fled the deception of the demons* and, casting his books of sorcery into the fire, became a preacher of the Gospel.* Wherefore, glorifying the Saviour who has glorified them, let us sinners cry out:* O Christ God, who has crowned Your athletes with glory:* by their supplications save our souls! Now… Like a great Sun, the Word, who is equal in honour with the Father and the Spirit,* and who in latter times shone forth upon the earth through the divine Virgin Maiden,* emitted you, О glorious apostles,* like rays illumining with the light of Faith all mankind* which languishes in the darkness of delusion,* leading them to Him with divine teachings. Prokeimenon, Tone 5 O Lord, save me by Your name,* and in Your power be a judge for me. verse: O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. Aposticha Tone 2 Throughout the whole world You magnified the names of Your preeminent apostles, О Saviour,* for they learned heavenly things and imparted ineffable healings to mortals.* They who were fishermen healed diseases by their handkerchiefs alone;* they who were Jews theologized the doctrines of grace.* For their sake, О You who are full of loving-kindness,* grant us great mercy. In the morning, fill us with Your love; we shall exult and rejoice all our days. Give us joy to balance our affliction for the years when we knew misfortune. Show forth Your work to Your servants; let Your glory shine on their children. We, who are ever assailed by the actions of the unrighteous,* yet truly find refuge in You, who are God,* offer to You the voice of Your disciples, saying:* Save us, О our Instructor, for we are perishing!* And we pray: Show now to our enemies that You protect and save from misfortunes* those who have recourse to the supplications of the apostles,* overlooking their sins in Your great goodness.* О Lord, glory be to You! Let the favour of the Lord be upon us: give success to the work of our hands, give success to the work of our hands. Great is the glory you have acquired by faith;* for you not only vanquished the enemy in your sufferings,* but in death you drive away evil spirits and heal the infirm, О physicians of souls and bodies.* Pray to the Lord, that our souls may find mercy. Tone 4, Glory… We call you the unseen depth of heavenly knowledge, O most splendid martyr of Christ,* and we hymn you as a warrior and steadfast champion of the Church, O wise one.* For you shone forth with most pure fire,* counted worthy to wear the vesture of light with the armies on high,* having illumined your mind with the effulgence of the Holy Spirit, O Dionysius.* Thus, with faith we celebrate your universal memorial,* glorifying the Lord who glorified you. Now… O all-pure one, who have contained the infinite God in your womb* who, in His love for mankind, has become a man,* and has received our substance from you, deifying it:* disdain me not who am now sorrowing, but quickly take pity* and free me from diverse enemies and the malice of the evil one. Troparia Tone 4 Having shared the way of life of the apostles,* and having become a successor to their thrones,* labouring you found the divinely inspired way to contemplation.* Therefore, forthrightly ministering the word of truth,* you shed your blood for the faith, O hieromartyr, Dionysius.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory… Now… O Virgin Mother of God,* we acknowledge that the Word of the Father, Christ our God,* was incarnate of you, the only pure one and the only blessed one.* Therefore, we sing to you a hymn of praise and we exalt you. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Having shared the way of life of the apostles,* and having become a successor to their thrones,* labouring you found the divinely inspired way to contemplation.* Therefore, forthrightly ministering the word of truth,* you shed your blood for the faith, O hieromartyr, Dionysius.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Having piously lived among the hierarchs,* and having trod the path of suffering,* you extinguished the sacrifices to idols* and were a defender for your flock, O godly one.* Therefore, venerating you, we sincerely cry to you:* “Rescue us from dangers by your prayers, O our father, Dionysius. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The venerable ones will exult in glory and they shall be joyful in their beds. verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; let His praise be in the assembly of the venerable ones. (Psalm 149:5,1) Epistle Philippians 3:1-8 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Your priests shall clothe themselves with justice, and Your venerable ones shall rejoice. verse: For the Lord has chosen Sion; He has chosen it for His dwelling. (Psalm 131:9,13) Gospel Luke 7:17-30 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 2, 2024 - 🕃 The Holy Hieromartyr Cyprian; Holy Martyr Justina; Holy Andrew, Fool for the Sake of Christ.

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 2, 2024 Saint with six stichera VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Through the anointing of the priesthood and the blood of martyrdom,* you drew near to God, most perfect and all-glorious Cyprian!* You are the flower of nature;* the adornment of preaching, the summit of wisdom and a rule of true dogmas,* a harmonizer of the canons:* you are the splendour of the churches! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Through the anointing of the priesthood and the blood of martyrdom,* you drew near to God, most perfect and all-glorious Cyprian!* You are the flower of nature;* the adornment of preaching, the summit of wisdom and a rule of true dogmas,* a harmonizer of the canons:* you are the splendour of the churches! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Most honourable Cyprian, glory of athletes and crown of martyrs:* by your sermons you persuaded the divinely wise* to maintain their courage most valiantly* in the face of imprisonment, bondage and varied tortures,* nakedness, binding and bitter cold,* with wounding and death at the end. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Most honourable Cyprian, glory of athletes and crown of martyrs:* by your sermons you persuaded the divinely wise* to maintain their courage most valiantly* in the face of imprisonment, bondage and varied tortures,* nakedness, binding and bitter cold,* with wounding and death at the end. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You are the splendour of virgins and martyrs, Justina!* You opposed the spells of demons with hymns to the Spirit!* By the sign of the Cross, you preserved your virginity,* offering yourself to Christ as a most holy sacrifice!* You are an unconquered martyr,* receiving the crowns of victory! Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You are the splendour of virgins and martyrs, Justina!* You opposed the spells of demons with hymns to the Spirit!* By the sign of the Cross, you preserved your virginity,* offering yourself to Christ as a most holy sacrifice!* You are an unconquered martyr,* receiving the crowns of victory! Tone 2, Glory... Most blessed Cyprian, you turned aside indeed* from the falsehood and lore of idolatrous teaching!* You armed yourself for salvation with the sword of the Cross,* throwing away the books of sorcery as you put off the old man!* The knowledge of the consubstantial Trinity lived within you!* with the angels, ever beseech Him, O bishop, that we may be saved! Now… Beholding You nailed to the tree of the Cross, O Jesus,* she who knew not wedlock said, weeping: *O my Child most sweet, why have You left me alone who gave You birth?* O unapproachable Light of the all-unoriginate Father, make haste and be glorified,* that those who glorify Your divine sufferings may receive divine glory! Aposticha Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 2 О Christ God my Saviour, who saved Peter in the sea,* save me by the power of the Cross,* and have mercy on me. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. Those who ever enjoyed Your gifts cried out, “Crucify Him!”;* those who slew the righteous ones asked that a malefactor be given to them in place of the Benefactor.* But You kept silence, О Christ,* enduring their savagery, desiring to suffer and thus save us,* in that You love mankind. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. The choirs of the martyrs opposed the tyrants, saying:* “We fight for the King of hosts!* And even if you have subjected us to fire and tortures,* we will not reject the power of the Trinity!” Tone 2, Glory... Let us praise Cyprian, the divinely shining lamp,* the converser with Paul and sharer of his labours!* He dwells with the angels;* having received an incorruptible crown from the one God.* He ever prays that our souls may be saved! Now… When the unblemished ewe-lamb beheld her Lamb* led of His own will as a man to the slaughter, she said, weeping:* Do You now haste to leave me childless who gave You birth, O Christ?* What is this that You have done, O Deliverer of all?* Yet I hymn and glorify Your utter goodness, which passes understanding and recounting,* O You who loves mankind! Troparion Tone 4 Having shared the way of life of the apostles,* and having become a successor to their thrones,* labouring you found the divinely inspired way to contemplation.* Therefore, forthrightly ministering the word of truth,* you shed your blood for the faith, O hieromartyr, Cyprian.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory… Now… O Virgin, all immaculate Mother of Christ God,* a sword pierced your all-holy soul* when you saw your Son and God willingly crucified.* Therefore, O blessed One,* never cease to pray to Him* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Having shared the way of life of the apostles,* and having become a successor to their thrones,* labouring you found the divinely inspired way to contemplation.* Therefore, forthrightly ministering the word of truth,* you shed your blood for the faith, O hieromartyr, Cyprian.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Having piously lived among the hierarchs,* and having trod the path of suffering,* you extinguished the sacrifices to idols* and were a defender for your flock, O godly one.* Therefore, venerating you, we sincerely cry to you:* “Rescue us from dangers by your prayers, O our father, Cyprian. 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 115:15,12) Epistle Philippians 2:24-30 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 Luke 6:46-7:1 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Oct 1, 2024 - 🕀 The Protection of the Most Holy Mother of God; Holy Apostle Ananias, One of the Seventy Disciples; Our Venerable Father Roman Who Sang Sweetly.

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Oct 1, 2024 GREAT VESPERS ON MONDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! O most pure Mother of God,* you are a mighty defender for those in sorrow. * You are a ready help to those in trouble.* You are the salvation and confirmation of the world.* You are the depth of mercy, the fount of God's wisdom* and the protectress of the world. * O faithful, let us sing and praise her glorious protection, saying:* Rejoice, O Full of Grace, the Lord is with you,* and through you He grants great mercy to the world. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. O most pure Mother of God,* you are a mighty defender for those in sorrow. * You are a ready help to those in trouble.* You are the salvation and confirmation of the world.* You are the depth of mercy, the fount of God's wisdom* and the protectress of the world. * O faithful, let us sing and praise her glorious protection, saying:* Rejoice, O Full of Grace, the Lord is with you,* and through you He grants great mercy to the world. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. The wondrous prophet Isaiah foretold:* The mountain of the Lord will be revealed in the last days,* and the house of the Lord will be upon the mountain.* O Queen and Lady, we have seen this prophecy truly fulfilled in you,* because the mountains and hills have been adorned* by the many churches named after your feasts.* Therefore, we joyfully sing out to you:* Rejoice, O Full of Grace, the Lord is with you,* and through you He grants great mercy to the world. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O awesome beauty,* you are the true prophetic fulfilment for all the faithful.* You are the glory of the apostles and the joy of the martyrs,* the pride of virgins and a wondrous protection for the whole world.* O Lady, with the mantle of your mercy,* protect our Church and all the people who sing out to you:* Rejoice, O Full of Grace, the Lord is with you,* and through you He grants great mercy to the world. Tone 4 From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. O Theotokos, you cooperated with the invitation offered by the Holy Spirit.* You were like a paradise planted by God* and the site of the living Tree.* We acknowledge you as having brought forth the Creator of all* who feeds the faithful with the Bread of Life.* We ask you to pray for us with the Forerunner.* With your mantle protect all people from every danger. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O Theotokos, you cooperated with the invitation offered by the Holy Spirit.* You were like a paradise planted by God* and the site of the living Tree.* We acknowledge you as having brought forth the Creator of all* who feeds the faithful with the Bread of Life.* We ask you to pray for us with the Forerunner.* With your mantle protect all people from every danger. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Heaven and earth are sanctified.* The Church is radiant and all the people are rejoicing.* Behold, the Mother of God,* together with the angelic hosts, the Forerunner, and the Theologian,* with the prophets and the apostles has invisibly entered.* She prays to Christ in behalf of all Christians* that He may have mercy on our city and all people* who glorify the feast of her Protection. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O Theotokos, you are the beauty of Jacob;* you are the heavenly ladder* by which Christ came down to earth.* Indeed, those images signify your honour and glory.* The angels in heaven and all people on earth praise you,* for you have given birth to the God of all.* We honour you as you pray for the whole world* and cover with your mantle* all those who observe your holy feast. Tone 8, Glory… All the leaders of the heavenly armies* form a spiritual choir and rejoice with all of us* when they see the Lady and Queen of all praised by the faithful.* The spirits of the just also rejoice* as they witness the vision of the Queen praying with outstretched arms.* She asks for peace in the world,* power and strength for our Church,* and salvation for our souls. Now… Out of his love for mankind* the King of heaven appeared on earth and dwelt with men,* for He assumed a human body from the pure Virgin* and was seen in the flesh He received from her.* He is the One and only God having two natures but not two persons.* Wherefore we profess and declare the truth* that Christ our God is perfect God and perfect Man.* O Mother, who knew not carnal union,* intercede with Him that He may have mercy on our souls. Readings (1) Genesis 28:10-17; (2) Ezekiel 43:27-44:4; (3) Proverbs 9:1-11 Lytia Tone 3 The glorious feast of your Holy Protection has come, O most pure Virgin.* Illuminate more brightly than the sun all your people* who with faith and with a pure heart* proclaim you to be truly the Mother of God.* They likewise sing out to your Son:* O Christ our God, through the prayers of the ever-Virgin,* who immaculately gave You birth in the flesh,* let not your inheritance be vanquished by the enemy;* but because You are the merciful One,* save our souls in peace. Tone 4 The people desire to sing to you, most pure Lady, * but they cannot sing praises worthy of your Son.* For you always intercede for all the faithful* and embrace them with your holy protection.* You pray that all will be saved,* all who honour you with faith,* O most pure Mother of God. Tone 2, Glory… Now… Let us assemble today, O faithful,* and praise the immaculate Queen of all,* the most pure Virgin, the Mother of Christ our God;* for she always mercifully extends her hands to her Son.* In amazement, Andrew saw her in a cloud,* protecting the faithful with her mantle.* Let us fervently sing to her:* Rejoice, O protection, defence, and salvation of our souls. Aposticha Tone 2 Higher than all beings in heaven or on earth,* more glorious than the Cherubim,* and more honourable than all creation,* Christ has given you as the powerful protection of the Christian people* to protect and save all sinners who hasten to you.* Therefore, O Lady, we sing hymns to you* because you are the refuge of all people,* and we gloriously celebrate the honourable feast of your Protection.* We ask Christ to grant us great mercy through you. Tone 5 Listen, O daughter, give ear to my words. O people, let us gloriously sing David's song to the young bride,* to the mother of Christ our God and the King of all.* O Master, the Queen stood at your right hand,* clothed in golden robes and adorned with celestial beauty.* You have affirmed her, chosen from among women,* and deigned to be born of her because of your great mercy.* You have given her as a help to your people* to build up and protect your servants* from all misfortunes, O only-blessed One. Tone 7 The richest of people shall seek your favour. O Theotokos, you are a mountain greater and more glorious than Mount Sinai.* It could not bear God's glory coming down in images and tents.* It caught fire and shook with thunder and lightning.* You likewise had the Divine Fire in you.* Through the will of Him who holds all in the palm of his hand,* you bore the Word of God in your womb without being burned.* Since you have a mother's confidence before Him, O Lady,* help those who faithfully celebrate your precious feast.* Do not forget in your mercy to visit us,* for you have received a gift from God* to build up and protect the Christian flock of your servants. Tone 2, Glory… O all-pure Mother of God,* the Church is clothed with your honourable protection* as with a most glorious wreath.* It radiantly rejoices today.* It mystically dances with joy and sings to you, O Lady:* Rejoice, honourable raiment and crown of God's glory.* Rejoice, unique perfection of glory and eternal joy;* rejoice, refuge of all who hasten to you;* rejoice, our salvation and deliverance. 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 a mother to hold in her arms the Source of all Creation?* It was God’s own will to be born in this manner;* and you, O most pure 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. Troparion Tone 4 Today we believers radiantly celebrate,* flooded in light by your coming to us, O Mother of God;* beholding your pure image,* we say with contrition:* shelter us with your precious protection* and deliver us from every evil,* entreating Your Son, Christ our God, to save our souls. (3) FESTAL MATINS ON TUESDAY MORNING Hexapsalm Great Ekteny The Lord Is God, Tone 4 Troparia, Tone 4 Protected by your coming, O Mother of God,* the faithful people solemnly celebrate today;* and gazing upon your immaculate image,* they humbly say: Watch over us with your noble protection* and deliver us from all evil,* by asking your Son, Christ our God, to save our souls. (2) Glory… Now… O Mother of God, the mysteries which surround you are exceedingly glorious,* and beyond the power of understanding.* For you retained the seal of purity,* and your virginity remained inviolate;* yet you are acknowledged, without doubt,* to be the Mother who gave birth to the true God.* We beg you, therefore, to entreat Him to save our souls. Kathisma & Little Ekteny Sessional Hymn I, Tone 3 Encircled by the light of the angelic hosts, O Lady,* and by the ranks of the apostles and prophets,* and receiving as the Mother of God their holy veneration,* visit us, your servants, and entreat Christ our God* to grant us His abundant mercy. Kathisma & Little Ekteny Sessional Hymn II, Tone 6 You are indeed the strength of the helpless,* O most pure Mother of God.* Because of this, we lowly ones glory in you.* Because of you, our hopes are high.* You are our protection and our mediatrix with God. Polyeleos Exaltation We extol You,* O most holy Virgin,* and we honour your precious Protection* for the saintly Andrew saw you in a vision, praying to Christ for us. verses: He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High and abides in the shade of the Almighty. He will conceal you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge. For there He keeps me safe in His tent in the day of evil. He hides me in the shelter of his tent; on a rock He sets me safe. Glory…Now… Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to You, O God! (3 times) Sessional Hymn, Tone 4 Your most precious mantle glistens more brilliantly* than the gold and silver of the ark of old.* It is spread out not in substance but in spirit* by your pure and incorruptible hands,* and it mercifully protects those who honour the feast of your Protection, O Lady,* which we joyfully celebrate today. Gradual Hymns, Tone 4, Antiphon 1 Prokeimenon, Tone 4 I will make your name remembered from generation to generation. verse: Listen, O daughter, give ear to my words. Let Everything That Has Breath, Tone 4 Gospel Luke 1:39-49, 56 Psalm 50 After Psalm 50, Tone 6 Glory… Through the intercession of the Mother of God, O Merciful One, remit our many sins. Now… Through the intercession of the Mother of God, O Merciful One, remit our many sins. Tone 8 Have mercy on me, God, in your kindness. In your compassion, blot out my offense. All the leaders of the heavenly armies form a spiritual choir and rejoice with all of us* when they see the Lady and Queen of all praised by the faithful.* The spirits of the just also rejoice* as they witness the vision of the Queen praying with outstretched arms.* She asks for peace in the world,* power and strength for our Church,* and salvation for our souls. Canon Ode 1 Irmos I will open my mouth and it will be filled with the Spirit, and I will utter a word to the Queen and Mother, and I shall be seen keeping glad festival, and rejoicing I will sing her wonders. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! As all-pure Mother of God, grant me wisdom, and give me eloquence that I may radiantly praise the wonders of your holy Protection, through which you always protect those who honour you. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! You unfolded from above the lighting blaze of your Protecting Veil, and sheltered under it not only the queen of cites but your whole race that bears the name of Christ. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! Venerable Andrew saw you of old in an ineffable vision in the church of Blachernae, Pure Virgin, protecting the ends of the world by the unfurling of your godly Robe. Glory… Now… Your race’s army, taking invincible strength from your Protection, defeated regiments of foes and won a radiant victory. And so, Sovereign Lady, it sings your mighty deeds. Ode 3 Irmos O Mother of God, as a living and bounteous source, establish those united in spiritual fellowship who sing you hymns of praise, and by your divine protection grant them crowns of glory. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! Your Protection, formed of light, is a source of heavenly joy, O All-unblemished, ever awarding to those who wrestle with afflictions grace, mercy and salvation. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! From the beginning through compassion you placed us, as a chosen race, beneath your Protecting Veil, O Virgin, and both of old and now you have worked strange and wondrous things, rescuing us from dangers. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! When godly Epiphanios heard the words of Venerable Andrew, he saw you as a heavenly queen protecting the people that bears Christ’s name. Glory… Now… As we see the multitude of wonders of your godly Protection, O Virgin, which you work everyday for our preservation, we, the multitudes of believers, bring you thankful praises. Sessional Hymn, Tone 3 You appeared, O All-praised, as Protection, salvation, help and defence of your Orthodox peoples; therefore we magnify your Protection and we proclaim your fervent defence, All-pure Maiden, who protect our souls from every assault of the dragon. Ode 4 Irmos: The One seated in glory on the throne of the Godhead, Jesus, the One above all godhead, has come on a light cloud and with his unsullied palm has saved those who cry: Glory, O Christ, to your power! O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! Invisibly unfolding your shining Protection, each day you protect, encompass, cherish and save from every affliction those who cry to you: Glory, O Virgin, to your glory! O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! The revelation of your great goodness, O Maiden, and your distribution of the gifts which your ever show to our race, amaze mind and thought. And so, Sovereign Lady, we sing the praise of your grace. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! Being present invisibly you clearly revealed to your servants your all-holy Protection in Byzantium of old, O Bride of God. Through it you ever protect us, for you love goodness. Glory… Now… Having you, O Maiden, as defence in dangers, respite in slavery, guide and assistance in all the circumstances of our life, we take refuge under your shining Protection. Ode 5 Irmos: The universe was amazed at your divine glory, for you, O Virgin, who knew not wedlock, held in your womb the God who is over all and gave birth to an eternal Son, who gives salvation as the prize to all who sing your praise. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! Your suppliant people, O All-praised, celebrates the holy memory of your Protecting Veil, for you came to the church of Blachernae and there, O Immaculate, you spiritually protected all those who faithfully glorify you. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! By your visitation, pure Maiden, destroy the insolence of the hostile lion who goes roaring each day to swallow down your inheritance, and overthrow his arrogance and pride. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! As we celebrate the memory of your light-bearing Protection, we sing you thanksgivings for salvation, O Virgin, for you have delivered us from bitter slavery and mightily humbled the overweening enemy who came against us. Glory… Now… As a godly jar of alabaster of the All-holy Spirit, Mother of God full of grace, show me, who with faith ever take refuge under your Protection and sing the praise of your glory, to be a vessel of divine grace. Ode 6 Irmos: Come godly-minded people, as we celebrate this divine and honoured feast of the Mother of God, let us clap our hands as we glorify the God who was born from her. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! By night a pillar of fire once guided the Israelite people, while now, O Immaculate, your Protecting Veil, formed like lightning, ever guides us to salvation. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! Unfolding your Protection, wholly light, you protect us each day, All-pure Virgin, as we now know. What return then shall we make you for your grace? O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! Of old and now you have shown us to be your own chosen portion and a people for your won possession, O Maiden. Therefore the company of the Orthodox sings your praise. Glory… Now… Your faithful and God-loving people, O Maiden, proclaims your grace and, delivered from dangers and perils, sings a song of thanksgiving to your Protection. Kontakion, Tone 8 Like a cloud brightly overshadowing the whole company of the Church, O all-pure, you appeared of old on the royal City. But as the Protection and Champion of your people, protect from every affliction us who cry to you: Hail, Protection wholly light. Ikos Unfolding from on high your holy Protection, Virgin Mary, Mother of God, you protect and save your people, who cry out to you, Pure Maiden, hour by hour, while now they gratefully sing the praise of your wonders as they cry: Hail, Protection, wholly light! Hail, gate of salvation. Hail, Protection of the Church. Hail, wondrous vision of the Angels. Hail, unshakeable support of mortals. Hail, Ever-Virgin Mother of Christ the universal King. Hail, Protection and assistance of your faithful people. Hail, for you appeared protecting your race. Hail, for you grant victories to the troops. Hail, source of abundant goodness. Hail, lamp of God’s loving-kindness. Hail, for through you we conquer the foe. Hail, for to you we cry out each day: Hail, Protection wholly light! Ode 7 Irmos: The godlike Children did not worship creation instead of the Creator, but bravely trampling on the threat of fire, rejoicing they sang: O highly exalted Lord and God of our fathers, blessed are you! O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! You have placed us, Sovereign Lady, under your Protecting Veil, and you ever protect us from dread abuse, assault of foes and every affliction. Therefore with upraised voices we all sing your praise to the ages. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! You protected the royal city of Constantine as your chosen part, Pure Virgin; likewise you now protect with your glory, All-blameless Lady, us who take refuge in your fervent defence. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! The wondrous overshadowing of our race with your godlike Protection, Pure Virgin, clearly manifests your providence, through which you grant joy and peace to our souls. Glory… Now… Unhusbanded, O All-pure, you husbanded Christ, the Husbandman of our life; as cause of our joy you appeared to those who sang, Hail, Sovereign Lady of our race, saviour and sweet help. Ode 8 Irmos: The Offspring of the Mother of God saved the innocent Youths in the furnace. Then he was prefigured, but now in reality he gathers the whole world which sings: All you works praise the Lord, and highly exalt him to all the ages. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! In many ways you revealed of old the force of your Protection, Mother of God, by signs and wonders and countless deeds of power, acting as our Champion every day, O All-pure; while now we sing the praise of your saving wondrous works. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! Your chosen people, O All-blameless, faithfully receiving force and strength from your godly Protection, ever escapes from afflictions that attack them and from warlike foes, and remains unharmed by any madness, Mother of God, through your solicitude. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! From on high, Immaculate Virgin, unfold your holy and most radiant Protection, and as of old protect us and keep us safe from foes who attack us, and deliver your inheritance from their wickedness and assault. O Most Holy Mother of God, save us! Venerable Andrew and venerable and godly Epiphanios saw you unfolding the Protecting Veil that had protected your immaculate body, Mother of God Ever-Virgin, and they were amazed; for you protected all, O Maiden, with immaterial light and heavenly glory. Ode 9 O my soul, extol the greatness of the protection of the ever-Virgin Mother of God. Let all born of earth bearing torches, in spirit leap for joy; let the nature of the immaterial spirits honour and celebrate the wondrous sacred festival of the Mother of God, and let them cry: Hail, all-blessed Mother of God, pure and Ever-Virgin! O my soul, extol the greatness of the protection of the ever-Virgin Mother of God. The dew which falls in drops from your Godly Protection as from an immaterial cloud, O Immaculate, becomes healing for us and brings to an end sicknesses of soul and body for those who cry: Hail, Ever-Virgin, our joy and consolation! O my soul, extol the greatness of the protection of the ever-Virgin Mother of God. The Church of the faithful celebrates a sacred memorial of your wonders to your glory and praise, O All-blameless, and with faith taking refuge under your Protection, cries out to you: Protect and guard me until my life’s end, O All-praised. O my soul, extol the greatness of the protection of the ever-Virgin Mother of God. With all our soul let us gather to your godly Protection, immaculate Lady, bringing thankful praise with fervent gratitude, for you are an immaterial cloud, O Immaculate, which becomes healing for us and brings to an end sicknesses of soul and body for those who cry: Hail, Ever-Virgin, our joy and consolation! O my soul, extol the greatness of the protection of the ever-Virgin Mother of God. The Church of the faithful celebrates a sacred memorial of your wonders to your glory and praise, O All-blameless, and with faith taking refuge under your Protection, cries out to you: Protect and guard me until my life’s end, O All-praised. O my soul, extol the greatness of the protection of the ever-Virgin Mother of God. With all our soul let us gather to your godly Protection, immaculate Lady, bringing thankful praise with fervent gratitude, for you have chosen us for your own and you treat us kindly in all things; you guide us and save us from afflictions. Immaculate Virgin who bore God, save your flock, protecting it with your Protecting Veil and caring for it in every way. From above, pure Virgin, keep your godly Protection around your people like a rampart with a wealth of loving-kindness; while to me, who have now woven for you songs of praise, give enlightenment and illumination, I implore, and forgiveness of faults. Glory… Raising your hands to God you implore on our behalf the One who came forth from you, and thence, unfolding spiritually your light-bearing Protection, you protected all the faithful. And so, as we celebrate its yearly memorial, Mother of God, we magnify you. Now… As we sing the praise of the manifold gifts of your Protection and its unstinted grace, pure Mother, which we unceasingly enjoy, we cry out to you from our souls: As of old you protected your people, so now too protect us with your hand and save us until our life’s end, O Immaculate. Hymn of Light, Tone 3 O most holy Lady, Virgin Mother of God,* extend your holy mantle over us;* guide and protect our rulers and all people from every evil.* As the holy Andrew saw you in a vision while praying,* so today, O holy Lady, show us your loving protection. At the Praises, Tone 8 O Lady, we bow before you,* and humbly prostrating, we pray to you.* Rejoice, O glorious Virgin,* most blessed by God and heralded by prophets;* for in you, Christ our God came down as the dew.* In your maidenhood, pure and undefiled, you gave birth to Him.* You carried in your arms the Lord and Creator of all.* implore Him now for us* who faithfully glorify the feast of your Protection. O Lady, we bow before you,* and humbly prostrating, we pray to you.* Rejoice, O glorious Virgin,* most blessed by God and heralded by prophets;* for in you, Christ our God came down as the dew.* In your maidenhood, pure and undefiled, you gave birth to Him.* You carried in your arms the Lord and Creator of all.* implore Him now for us* who faithfully glorify the feast of your Protection. The angel choirs sing of you, O Virgin Mother of God.* The patriarchs join the priestly ranks and holy apostles in praising you.* They give service to you as to the Mother of God.* Having seen you pray to Christ our God, the Saviour of all,* they ask you to pray to Him to save the world* and all those who sincerely honour you* and keep holy the feast of your Protection. O Mother of God,* you were made more holy than the ark of Aaron through the Holy Spirit.* With your mantle you shine more brilliantly than the rays of the sun.* You illumine the Church and dispel the darkness caused by our sins.* Deliver from danger and tribulations* all those who honour the feast of your Protection. Tone 6, Glory… Now… O Mother of God,* the holy Andrew saw you in a vision with a multitude of archangels,* together with the apostles and prophets,* and a multitude of martyrs.* You were praying to your Son, our God,* for the city and the people,* covering them with your holy mantle.* So now, O most pure One,* do not forsake the inheritance of your Son,* all those who keep holy the feast of your Protection, O most praised One. DIVINE LITURGY ON TUESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Today we believers radiantly celebrate,* flooded in light by your coming to us, O Mother of God;* beholding your pure image,* we say with contrition:* shelter us with your precious protection* and deliver us from every evil,* entreating Your Son, Christ our God, to 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 3: Today the Virgin stands before us in the church* and together with the choirs of saints invisibly prays to God for us.* Angels are worshipping with hierarchs,* Apostles exult with prophets,* for the Mother of God prays in our behalf to the eternal God. Prokeimenon, Tone 3 My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour. verse: Because he has regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, all generations shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:46-48) Epistle Hebrews 9:1-7 Alleluia, Tone 8 verse: Hear, O daughter, and see, and incline your ear. verse: The rich among the people shall entreat your countenance. (Psalm 44:11,13) Gospel Luke 10:38-42; 11:27-28 Communion Hymn I will take the cup of salvation;* and I will call upon the name of the Lord.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 115:13):

Sep 30, 2024 - 🕃 The Hieromartyr Gregory, Bishop of Great Armenia.

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sep 30, 2024 Saint with six stichera VESPERS ON SUNDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms. At Psalm 140 Tone 6 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Having dyed your sacred vesture in the blood of your martyrdom,* you entered into the holy of holies, O right wondrous martyr,* where there is ineffable light, divine glory, and the voice of one who keeps festival,* receiving there the reward of your labours:* an imperishable crown, glory which is everlasting* and a dwelling-place in paradise, O wise Gregory.* Pray with boldness in behalf 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. Having dyed your sacred vesture in the blood of your martyrdom,* you entered into the holy of holies, O right wondrous martyr,* where there is ineffable light, divine glory, and the voice of one who keeps festival,* receiving there the reward of your labours:* an imperishable crown, glory which is everlasting* and a dwelling-place in paradise, O wise Gregory.* Pray with boldness in behalf of our souls. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. The threefold waves of tortures did not shake your soul,* nor did your long imprisonment, enclosed in a gloomy pit, O glorious athlete.* But you have shone forth like light upon those who languish in the darkness of vainglory,* and have shown them to be children of the day through the font of baptism,* through higher and saving regeneration, and truly divine life,* in that you are a God-pleasing hierarch, O most wise Gregory. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. The threefold waves of tortures did not shake your soul,* nor did your long imprisonment, enclosed in a gloomy pit, O glorious athlete.* But you have shone forth like light upon those who languish in the darkness of vainglory,* and have shown them to be children of the day through the font of baptism,* through higher and saving regeneration, and truly divine life,* in that you are a God-pleasing hierarch, O most wise Gregory. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Rhipsimia, loving You, the Master of all, the immortal Bridegroom,* accepted the flaying of the skin of her body,* having first through abstinence rent asunder the dark hairshirt of the passions;* and with her the ever-memorable Gmana also struggled,* leading an assembly of virgins who suffered mightily* and cast down the ancient deceiver of Eve.* Praising them as is meet,* we glorify You, O Christ. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. Rhipsimia, loving You, the Master of all, the immortal Bridegroom,* accepted the flaying of the skin of her body,* having first through abstinence rent asunder the dark hairshirt of the passions;* and with her the ever-memorable Gmana also struggled,* leading an assembly of virgins who suffered mightily* and cast down the ancient deceiver of Eve.* Praising them as is meet,* we glorify You, O Christ. Tone 6, Glory… Who can recount the victories of your virtues as is meet?* What mouth can describe your endurance of torture?* For in both were you triumphant, O Gregory, O saint of God,* never cease to pray that our souls be saved,* for you have great boldness, O hieromartyr. Now… О Theotokos, who at the sound of the archangel’s voice* conceived in your womb the Word,* who with the Father and the Spirit is equally beginningless,* you have been revealed to be more exalted than the cherubim, seraphim, and thrones. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 And now bless the Lord,* all you servants of the Lord. verse: Who stand in the temple of the Lord, in the courtyards of the house of our God. Aposticha Tone 2 Like the prodigal son I have sinned against You, О Saviour.* Accept me who am penitent, О Father.* Have mercy on me, О God! I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. With the cry of the publican I cry out to You, О Christ my Saviour:* Cleanse me as You did him,* and have mercy on me, О God! Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. Having hated the pleasures of the earth,* the passion-bearers were granted the good things of heaven* and became fellow citizens with the angels.* By their supplications, О Lord, have mercy and save us. Tone 6, Glory… Noetically entering into the impenetrable cloud of ineffable light,* the martyr and pastor learned the ineffable mysteries of Christ,* for he was enlightened as a martyr and taught the mysteries as a pastor.* That is why he has been crowned with a twofold wreath of heavenly glory,* ever beseeching Christ in behalf of our souls. Now… Like the Archangel, let us the faithful* hymn the bridal-chamber of heaven, the portal truly sealed:* Rejoice, for whose sake have budded forth to us Christ the Saviour of all,* the Bestower of life and God!* With your arm O Lady cast down the tyrants, our godless foes,* O most pure one, O hope of Christians! Troparion Tone 4 Having shared the way of life of the apostles,* and having become a successor to their thrones,* labouring you found the divinely inspired way to contemplation.* Therefore, forthrightly ministering the word of truth,* you shed your blood for the faith, O hieromartyr, Gregory.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory… Now… To the One who was reared in the Temple,* close to the Holy of Holies,* and who was full of faith, wisdom, and perfect virginity,* Gabriel, the captain and leader,* offered esteem and greetings from heaven when he said:* Rejoice, O blessed One! Rejoice, O glorified One!* The Lord is with you. DIVINE LITURGY ON MONDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 4: Having shared the way of life of the apostles,* and having become a successor to their thrones,* labouring you found the divinely inspired way to contemplation.* Therefore, forthrightly ministering the word of truth,* you shed your blood for the faith, O hieromartyr, Gregory.* Intercede with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 4: Having piously lived among the hierarchs,* and having trod the path of suffering,* you extinguished the sacrifices to idols* and were a defender for your flock, O godly one.* Therefore, venerating you, we sincerely cry to you:* “Rescue us from dangers by your prayers, O our father, Gregory. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The venerable ones will exult in glory* and they shall be joyful in their beds. verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; let His praise be in the assembly of the venerable ones. (Psalm 149:5,1) Epistle Philippians 2:12-16 A reading from the Epistle of the Holy Apostle Paul to the Philippians. Brethren, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: Your priests shall clothe themselves with justice, and Your venerable ones shall rejoice. verse: For the Lord has chosen Sion; He has chosen it for His dwelling. (Psalm 131:9,13) Gospel Luke 6:24-30 The Lord said to the Jews that came to Him, “Woe to you who are rich, For you have received your consolation. Woe to you who are full, For you shall hunger. Woe to you who laugh now, For you shall mourn and weep. Woe to you when all men speak well of you, For so did their fathers to the false prophets. “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Sep 29, 2024 - Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Octoechos Tone 2. 🕃 Our Venerable Father Cyriacus the Anchorite.

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sep 29, 2024 Sunday with a saint with six stichera. GREAT VESPERS ON SATURDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man... is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 2 Lead my soul forth from prison* that I may give thanks to Your name. Come, let us adore God the Word,* who was born of the Father before all ages,* and was incarnate of the Virgin Mary;* for of His own free will He suffered the Cross* and submitted Himself to burial,* and arose from the dead to save me, a sinful one. The just shall gather around me* when You have been good to me. Christ our Saviour cancelled the decree that was written against us,* by nailing it to the Cross;* and He abolished the dominion of Death.* Let us glorify His resurrection on the third day. Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! Let us, together with the archangels, sing of Christ’s resurrection;* for He is the Redeemer and Saviour of our souls.* He will come again in awesome glory and mighty power* to judge the world which He has fashioned. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. Although You died and were buried,* the angel yet declared You as Master.* He said to the women: Come and see where the Lord was placed;* for He is risen as He foretold,* because He is almighty.* Therefore, we worship You, the only Immortal One,* and we beseech You to have mercy on us, O Giver of Life. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. O Christ, You have abolished the curse of the tree by Your Cross;* You have destroyed the power of death by Your burial,* and You enlightened the human race by Your resurrection.* Therefore, we cry out to You:* O God and Benefactor, glory to You! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. O Lord, the gates of death opened before You in fear,* and the gatekeepers of Hades were filled with dread at the sight of You.* You smashed the gates of brass and crushed the posts of iron.* Then You burst our chains asunder,* and led us out from the darkness, away from the shadow of death. Tone 8 From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Having curbed the passions with the bridle of abstinence, O wonderworker Cyriacus,* you robed yourself in the radiant garment of dispassion,* and laid bare all the malice of him that of old stripped our first parents naked;* and now you make your abode in paradise, ever rejoicing.* Pray that our souls be saved. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Having curbed the passions with the bridle of abstinence, O wonderworker Cyriacus,* you robed yourself in the radiant garment of dispassion,* and laid bare all the malice of him that of old stripped our first parents naked;* and now you make your abode in paradise, ever rejoicing.* Pray that our souls be saved. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Bearing the Cross upon your shoulders, you followed after Christ,* scorning the pleasures of life with unrelenting thought,* and having slain the passions of the flesh with intense vigils and prayers,* you received the grace to heal infirmities, O venerable one.* Pray that our souls be saved. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O venerable Cyriacus, you lived in the desert making bitter herbs your food,* and, embittering your senses, you uprooted the passions of your soul, O blessed one.* That is why, having lived angelically, you have received heavenly delight after Your repose.* Pray that our souls be saved. Tone 8, Glory… We honour you, O our father Cyriacus, instructor of a multitude of monks,* for we have truly come to know the straight way by following your steps.* Blessed are you for having laboured for Christ,* you triumphed over the power of the enemy, O you that converses with angels,* companion of the venerable and the righteous.* With them entreat the Lord to have mercy upon our souls. Tone 2, 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. 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 2 Your Resurrection, O Christ our Saviour,* has enlightened the whole universe;* and, through it, You call back to Yourself all Creation.* Almighty God, glory to You! The Lord reigns, He is clothed in majesty. Robed is the Lord, and girt about with strength. By the wood of Your Cross, O Saviour,* You have abolished the curse of the tree;* by Your burial You have destroyed the power of death;* and by Your resurrection You enlightened the human race.* We, therefore, cry out to You:* O Christ our God, Giver of Life, glory to You! For He has made the world firm, which shall not be moved. O Christ, when You were nailed to the Cross,* the distorted nature of creation was made manifest.* The soldiers showed their inhumanity by piercing Your side with a lance,* and the people showed their ignorance of Your power* by asking that Your tomb be sealed.* But, in Your mercy, You accepted burial* and then arose on the third day.* O Lord, glory to You! Holiness befits Your house, O Lord, for length of days. O Christ, Giver of Life,* You freely endured the Passion for the sake of mortals.* In Your power You descended into Hades;* and snatching, as from a mighty monster, the souls of those who awaited Your coming,* You placed them in Paradise.* Therefore, show Your great mercy to us who glorify Your resurrection,* and cleanse our souls. Tone 6, Glory… O venerable father, report of your corrections has gone forth throughout all the earth.* That is why in the heavens you have found the reward of your labours;* you destroyed hordes of demons and attained to the ranks of the angels,* whose life you emulated blamelessly.* As you have boldness before the Lord, beg 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 Tone 2 When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” Tone 1, Glory… You were shown to be a desert dweller, an angel in the flesh,* and a wonderworker, O our God-bearing father Cyriacus;* having received heavenly gifts through fasting, vigil and prayer,* you healed the infirmities and souls of them that in faith have recourse to you!* Glory to Him that gave you strength!* Glory to Him that crowned you!* Glory to Him that through you works healings for all! Now… O Holy Tabernacle, when Gabriel cried out to you:* Rejoice O Virgin, full of grace,* the Lord of all became incarnate of you,* as the righteous David had foretold.* In bearing your Creator, you have shown yourself to surpass the vastness of the heavens.* We, therefore, cry out: Glory to Him who dwelt in you!* Glory to Him who came forth from you!* Glory to Him who has set us free through your life-giving birth! GREAT MATINS ON SUNDAY MORNING Usual Beginning Hexapsalm Great Litany God the Lord, Tone 2 Troparia, Tone 2 When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” (2) Tone 1, Glory… You were shown to be a desert dweller, an angel in the flesh,* and a wonderworker, O our God-bearing father Cyriacus;* having received heavenly gifts through fasting, vigil and prayer,* you healed the infirmities and souls of them that in faith have recourse to you!* Glory to Him that gave you strength!* Glory to Him that crowned you!* Glory to Him that through you works healings for all! Now… O Holy Tabernacle, when Gabriel cried out to you:* Rejoice O Virgin, full of grace,* the Lord of all became incarnate of you,* as the righteous David had foretold.* In bearing your Creator, you have shown yourself to surpass the vastness of the heavens.* We, therefore, cry out: Glory to Him who dwelt in you!* Glory to Him who came forth from you!* Glory to Him who has set us free through your life-giving birth! Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalms 9, 10 Stasis II: Psalms 11, 12, 13 Stasis III: Psalms 14, 15, 16 Small Litany Sessional Hymn I, Tone 2 The noble Joseph having taken down You most pure Body from the tree,* wrapped it in a fine linen shroud* covering it with fragrant spices* and placed it in a new sepulchre;* but on the third day You arose, O Lord,* granting the world great mercy. Arise, O Lord my God, let Your hands be lifted on high;* forget not Your poor to the end. The Angel standing by the tomb cried to the myrrh-bearing women,* ‘Myrrh is fitting for the dead,* but Christ has been revealed a stranger to corruption.* rather cry aloud: The Lord is risen,* granting the world great mercy!’ Glory… Now… You are highly glorified, O Virgin Theotokos,* and we sing your praise,* for through the Cross of your Son Hades has been overthrown,* Death has been slain,* and we who were dead have arisen and been granted life.* We have received Paradise, our ancient delight,* therefore with thanksgiving we glorify Christ our God* as mighty and alone plenteous in mercy. Psalter Reading Stasis I: Psalm 17 Stasis II: Psalms 18, 19, 20 Stasis III: Psalms 21, 22, 23 Small Litany Sessional Hymn II, Tone 2 You did not prevent the grave stone from being sealed,* and having arisen You granted to all the rock of the Faith.* O Lord, glory be to You! I will confess You, O Lord, with my whole heart,* I will tell of all Your wonders. The choir of Your Disciples rejoices in harmony with the Myrrh-bearing women;* for with them we celebrate a common feast to the glory and honour of Your Resurrection.* Through them, O Lord who loves mankind,* grant Your people Your great mercy. Glory… Now… You are highly blessed, O Virgin Theotokos,* for through Him who was incarnate of you* Hades has been taken captive, Adam recalled, the curse slain, and Eve set free,* death has been put to death and we have been given life;* therefore with hymns we cry to you:* Blessed are You O Christ our God who has been thus well-pleased, glory be to You! Polyeleos Evlogitaria Small Litany Hypakoe, Tone 2 The women coming to Your grave after the Passion* to anoint Your body, O Christ God,* saw Angels in the tomb and were frightened,* for they heard a message from them:* The Lord has arisen, granting the world His great mercy. Hymn of Ascent, Tone 2 Antiphon 1 I raise the eyes of my heart to You in heaven, O Saviour.* Save me by Your radiance. Have mercy, O my Christ, on us who fail You every hour and in many ways,* and grant to us the means to return to You* in repentance before the end. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit belongs sovereignty,* sanctification and the quickening of creation,* for He is God, one in essence with the Father* and the Word. Antiphon 2 If the Lord was not among us,* who could be kept safe from the one* who is both our foe and a manslayer? Do not hand Your servant over to destruction, O my Saviour.* For like a lion they come up against me,* they who are my foes. Glory… Now… To the Holy Spirit belongs the source of life and its honour,* for, being God, He preserves all creation* by His power* in the Father through the Son. Antiphon 3 Those who trust in the Lord are like the holy mountain:* they are utterly unshaken* by the assaults of the enemy. Let not those who live for God* stretch out their hands in iniquity;* for with the rod of His word Christ forbids such things. Glory… Now… By the Holy Spirit all wisdom flows forth,* grace to the Apostles,* crowns to the Martyrs,* and to the Prophets, prophetic vision. Prokeimenon, Tone 2 Lord, rise up in Your anger, rise against the fury of my foes; my God, awake! You will give judgment. Let the company of nations gather round You. verse: Lord God, I take refuge in You. From my pursuers save me and rescue me. Let everything that lives, Tone 2 Gospel John 20:11-18 Hymn of Resurrection Psalm 50 Verses at Psalm 50 Canon, Tone 2 Ode 1 Irmos: Once his overwhelming power overturned the whole of Pharaoh's army in the deep;* but the Word made flesh, the Lord of glory, blotted out the wholly wretched sin. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The prince of this world in whose books we, who disobeyed your commands, were inscribed, O Good One, has been judged by your cross; attacking you as a mortal, he fell back from the power of your might and was exposed in his weakness. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Deliverer of the race of mortal men and author of incorruptible life, you came into the world: for you tore in pieces the grave clothes of death in your resurrection, and this we glorify. Gloriously he is glorified. Glory… Now… O pure one, and ever-Virgin, you are shown to be higher than all creatures seen and unseen; for you bore the Creator since he willed to take flesh in your womb; with boldness pray to him to save our souls. Ode 3 Irmos: The desert, the barren Church of the nations, has blossomed as a lily at your coming, O Lord;* in this my heart is made firm. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Creation at your Passion was put to confusion to see you in mean disguise and mocked by the lawless, you whose lightest nod had established the universe. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You fashioned me with your hands from the dust in your image; and when, through sin, I was crushed again into the dust of death, you, O Christ, went down with me to Hell and raised me up with yourself. Glory… Now… The ranks of angels were amazed and the hearts of men trembled, All-pure, at your giving birth; wherefore we reverence you in faith, O Mother of God. Ode 4 Irmos: You came forth from the Virgin,* not an ambassador, not an angel,* but the Lord himself made flesh,* and saved my whole humanity. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You were standing, my God, before the judgment seat as one judged, not crying out, bringing, O Lord, judgment upon the nations. Thus, through your Passion, O Christ, you wrought salvation for the world. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. By your Passion the weapons of the enemies failed, by your descent into Hell the cities of the foe were destroyed and the insolence of the tyrant overthrown. Glory… Now… All we the faithful know you a haven of salvation, a fortified city unshaken, Lady Mother of God; for by your prayers you deliver our souls from danger. Ode 5 Irmos: Christ God, you are mediator between God and man:* through you, O Lord, we have access from the night of ignorance to your Father, the author of light. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. You broke as the cedars, O Christ, the insolence of the enemy when, of your own will, O Lord, you were pleased to be lifted up in the flesh on the cypress, the pine and the cedar. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. They laid you in the lowest pit, O Christ, dead, without breath; but with your stripes you raised with yourself, O Saviour, the wounded and forgotten who slept in the graves. Glory… Now… Pray to your Son and Lord, pure Virgin, to grant deliverance to prisoners and peace from the hostile forces surrounding those who trust in you. Ode 6 Irmos: Engulfed in sin's unfathomed depths* I cry to the fathomless deeps of your tender compassion;* God has brought me up* from corruption. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The righteous was judged as a criminal and nailed to the tree with the lawless with his own blood granting forgiveness to the guilty. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. As by one man, the first Adam, death came of old to the world, so by one, the Son of God, resurrection has been revealed . Glory… Now… You knew no man, O Virgin, you bore a child and remained for ever virgin, revealing thus the signs of true divinity of your Son and God. Kontakion, Tone 2 You rose from the tomb, O almighty Saviour;* and Hades, seeing this wonder, was stricken with fear; and the dead arose.* Creation saw and rejoices with You, and Adam exults.* And the world, my Saviour, sings Your praises for ever. Ikos Light you are to those endarkened, resurrection you are to all and life to mortal man; and when you, the Saviour, raised up all with yourself and despoiled the might of death, when you, O Word, shattered the gates of Hell, the dead saw it and marvelled at the marvel and all creation rejoiced together in your resurrection, O Lover of man. For all of this we glorify and sing your coming down to us and all the universe, my Saviour, hymns you for ever. Ode 7 Irmos: The godless decree of the lawless tyrant* re-kindled the soaring flames,* Christ let fall on the God-fearing children the dew of the Spirit.* He is blessed and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Your tender compassion, O Lord, would not allow you to see mankind beneath the sway of death but you came and saved him by your own blood, becoming man. He is blessed and glorious above all. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Seeing you clothed in the robe of vengeance, O Christ. Hell’s doorkeepers cowered in fear for you came to master, O Lord, the slave, the reasonless tyrant. He is blessed and glorious above all. Glory… Now… We know you the Holy of Holies, Virgin unspotted, Mother unwedded, for you alone bore the unchangeable God: by your divine giving birth you have shed incorruption on all the faithful. Ode 8 Irmos: Once in Babylon by divine command* the blazing furnace divided its work,* the Chaldaeans consuming, the faithful bedewing,* who sang: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The ranks of angels saw the garment of your flesh empurpled with your blood, in trembling amazement at the magnitude of your longsuffering, crying: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. Through your rising, O Merciful, you have clothed my mortality with deathlessness; therefore in glad thanksgiving your chosen people raise to you a song of praise, crying: Truly death is swallowed up in victory. Most holy Theotokos, save us. The One inseparable from the Father and humanly, divinely, dwelling in your womb, you conceived without seed and brought forth inexpressibly, Birth-giver of God, all-pure. By this we know you the salvation of us all. Magnificat Ode 9 Irmos: The Son of the unbegun Begetter, God and Lord, made flesh of the Virgin,* has appeared among us to bring light to the darkened places* and to gather the scattered together.* Therefore, we magnify the all-praised Mother of God. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. On Golgotha, as in Paradise, there was planted, O Saviour, the thrice-happy tree of your pure cross, nourished by your blood divine and water; so from the wellspring of your holy side, O Christ, life has blossomed for us. Glory to your holy Resurrection, O Lord. The crucified, the all-powerful, laid low the strong man armed, and the nature of man, lying below in the dungeon of Hell, he raised and placed on the Father's throne; coming in the midst of which we, worshipping, magnify you. Glory… Now… In the true faith singing, let us the faithful glorify the Trinity, three in number, one in substance, indivisible nature, supremely divine, triply shining light and never-setting radiance, the only uncompounded shedding light upon all. Small Litany Holy is the Lord Hymn of Light When Mary saw two angels inside the grave,* she was seized with fright.* She did not recognize Christ but thought that He was the gardener;* she said to Him: “Sir, where have You placed the body of Jesus?”* She knew from His voice that He was the Saviour,* and she obeyed Him when He said:* “Touch Me not for I am going to My Father.* Tell this to My disciples.” Glory… Now… You have given birth, O Virgin,* to one of the Trinity in a manner beyond description,* dual in nature, dual in will, but one in Person.* Therefore, always beseech Him for those who honor you in faith,* that we may escape the temptations of the enemy;* for in you we now seek refuge, O Theotokos. Praises Stichera of the Praises, Tone 2 Everything that breathes and every creature glorifies You, O Lord,* for through Your Cross You destroyed death* and thus shown the multitude of peoples Your Resurrection from the dead,* as You alone love mankind. Let the Jews tell how the soldiers lost the King they were guarding.* Why then did the stone not guard the rock of life?* Either let them give up the one who was buried or adore Him as risen,* exclaiming together with us:* Glory to the multitude of Your mercies:* O Saviour, glory be to You! Rejoice O peoples and be glad!* for an Angel sat upon the grave stone* and gave us good tidings saying:* Christ is risen from the dead* and has filled the universe with sweet fragrance.* Rejoice O peoples and be glad!' Before Your conception, O Lord,* an Angel brought the greeting ‘Rejoice’ to the one full of grace:* at Your Resurrection an Angel rolled away the stone from Your glorious grave.* The one revealed the signs of joy instead of sorrow;* the other instead of death has proclaimed to us the Master, and giver of life.* Wherefore we cry to You:* O Benefactor of all mankind,* Lord, glory be to You! The women sprinkled sweet spices* mingled with their tears upon Your grave,* but their mouths were filled with joy as they exclaimed,* The Lord hath arisen! Let the nations and the peoples praise Christ our God,* who willingly endured the Cross for us and suffered three days in Hades;* let them worship His Resurrection from the dead,* through which all the ends of the world have been enlightened. You were crucified, and Thou were buried, O Christ,* as You willed;* You have despoiled death as God and Master,* granting the world eternal life and Your great mercy. In truth, O wicked ones,* by sealing the tomb you have granted us a greater wonder;* for the guards having complete knowledge of that which took place were compelled by you to say* “while we slept the Disciples came and stole him.”* And who would steal a corpse, especially one that is naked?* But He has arisen by His own authority as God,* leaving behind His grave-clothes in the tomb.* Come, O Jews,* see that He did not burst the seals,* the One who has trampled on death* and granted mankind life without end* and His great mercy. Tone 8, Glory… The warm tears of Mary were not shed in vain;* for behold, she has been worthy to hear the angels* and to behold Your face, O Jesus.* But being a woman still thinking of earthly things,* she was not permitted to touch You, O Christ.* However, she was sent to proclaim to Your disciples the good news announcing Your return to Your heavenly inheritance.* With her, therefore, make us worthy to see You, O Lord. 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 You came forth from death, destroying the eternal bonds of Hades, O Lord.* You broke the curse of Death* and thus delivered us from the snares of the Evil One.* Then You appeared to your apostles and sent them forth to preach,* and through them You have bestowed your peace upon all the world,* for You alone are rich in mercy. Insistent Litany Litany of Supplication Great Dismissal DIVINE LITURGY ON SUNDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: When You went down to death, O Life Immortal,* You struck Hades dead with the blazing light of Your divinity.* When You raised the dead from the nether world,* all the powers of heaven cried out:* “O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory be to You!” Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kontakion, Tone 2: You rose from the tomb, O almighty Saviour;* and Hades, seeing this wonder, was stricken with fear; and the dead arose.* Creation saw and rejoices with You, and Adam exults.* And the world, my Saviour, sings Your praises for ever. Now and for ever and ever. Amen. Theotokion, Tone 2: The tomb and death could not hold the Mother of God,* unceasing in her intercession and an unfailing hope of patronage,* for as the Mother of Life she was transferred to life* by Him Who had dwelt in her ever-virgin womb. Prokeimenon, Tone 2 The Lord is my strength and my song of praise, and He has become my salvation. verse: The Lord has indeed chastised me, but He has not delivered me to death. (Psalm 117:14,18) Epistle 2 Corinthians 11:31-12:9 Alleluia, Tone 2 verse: The Lord will hear you in the day of tribulation; the name of the God of Jacob will shield you. verse: Lord, grant victory to the king and hear us in the day that we shall call upon You. (Psalm 19:2,10) Gospel Luke 6:31-36 Communion Hymn Praise the Lord from the heavens;* praise Him in the highest (Psalm 148:1).* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia.:

Sep 28, 2024 - 🕂 Our Venerable Father and Confessor Chariton; The Holy Martyr Ludmila and Viacheslav, Czech Prince; Synaxis of the Venerable Fathers of the Monastery of the Caves in Kyiv who repose in the Nearer Caves of the Venerable Anthony; Blessed Hieromartyr Nykyta Budka, First Bishop of Canada.

Sat, 28 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sep 28, 2024 Polyeleos Feast. GREAT VESPERS ON FRIDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is sung. At Psalm 140 Tone 4 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. By abstinence and fervent prayer, venerable Chariton,* you caused your body's passions to wither.* With streams of tears you drowned the deceitful serpent, blessed one.* In great measure you were well-pleasing to God!* Therefore Jesus, the Lover of mankind and the Saviour of our souls,* has adorned you with heavenly gifts! I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. By abstinence and fervent prayer, venerable Chariton,* you caused your body's passions to wither.* With streams of tears you drowned the deceitful serpent, blessed one.* In great measure you were well-pleasing to God!* Therefore Jesus, the Lover of mankind and the Saviour of our souls,* has adorned you with heavenly gifts! From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. With the sweat of your struggle, truly wondrous one,* you quenched the burning fire of the passions!* You partook of fire through your wounds and sufferings,* confessing the condescension of the incarnate Word before evil tyrants!* You were a witness for Him,* adorned with wounds from your manifold torments,* most wealthy, God-bearing Chariton! For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. With the sweat of your struggle, truly wondrous one,* you quenched the burning fire of the passions!* You partook of fire through your wounds and sufferings,* confessing the condescension of the incarnate Word before evil tyrants!* You were a witness for Him,* adorned with wounds from your manifold torments,* most wealthy, God-bearing Chariton! Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. You fled, most sacred and blessed Chariton,* withdrawing into the mountains and deserts.* Preserving your soul undefiled, you were revealed to be a dwelling of the Trinity,* in whose power you founded holy dwellings, blessed one:* monasteries for the building up and salvation* of monastics who honour your holy memory. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. You fled, most sacred and blessed Chariton,* withdrawing into the mountains and deserts.* Preserving your soul undefiled, you were revealed to be a dwelling of the Trinity,* in whose power you founded holy dwellings, blessed one:* monasteries for the building up and salvation* of monastics who honour your holy memory. Glory... God-bearing Chariton,* even after death, in Christ you live in the heavens!* For His sake you crucified yourself to the world,* for you were above the world and the flesh,* truly living, transcending all visible things!* Yet you did not live for yourself alone,* but Christ our God dwelt within you!* Entreat Him that our souls may be saved! Now… O Mother of God, because of You David the Prophet* became an ancestor of God;* he foretold and sang a joyous hymn of praise* and cried out to Him who worked wonders in you:* “The Queen stood at your right hand.”* God revealed you as a life-giving mother,* when He chose to be incarnate of you without a father.* He renewed in man His image which the passions had corrupted.* He found the lost sheep in the mountains, carried it on His shoulders,* offered it to the Father, generously numbered it among the powers of heaven,* and saved the whole world, since He is Christ of great and rich mercy. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 O God, You are my defender* and Your mercy goes before me. verse: Deliver me from my enemies, O God; save me from those who rise up against me. Readings (1) Wisdom 3:1-9; (2) Wisdom 5:15-6:3; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15 Aposticha Tone 1 All-praised Chariton, you laid out your life with care for the virtues!* Those who submit to your teachings praise Christ in hymns* and with the orthodox faith.* Standing before them, pray that they may be established* in the peace of the divine Spirit! Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints! Divinely-inspired Chariton,* your life appeared to men to be equal to that of the angels!* Your confession was offered up as a sweet-smelling sacrifice;* a perfect incense to the heavens!* Pray now that peace and great mercy* may be granted to our souls! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; who greatly delights in His commandments! Most wealthy Chariton,* you were a conqueror of the passions, vanquishing the evil-doers!* While joining the chorus of those crowned in victory, blessed one,* be mindful of us who celebrate your memory!* Pray now to Christ that He may grant peace* and great mercy to our souls! Tone 8, Glory... We honour you, Chariton our father, the instructor of a multitude of monks!* We have indeed learned to walk rightly in your footsteps!* You are blest, for having laboured for Christ,* you denounced the power of the enemy!* Conversor with the angels, companion of the venerable and righteous ones!* Together with them, entreat the Lord that He may grant mercy to our souls! Now… Unwedded Virgin, who ineffably conceived God in the flesh!* Mother of God most high!* Accept the cries of your servants, blameless One!* Grant cleansing of transgressions to all!* Receive our prayers and pray to save our souls! Troparia 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, Chariton.* 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! DIVINE LITURGY ON SATURDAY MORNING 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 hunderedfold.* You became a beacon, shining throughout the world by your wonders,* our venerable Father, Chariton.* 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 2: Taking delight in self-mastery, O divinely wise one,* you bridled your fleshly desires and were shown to grow through faith.* You flowered like the tree of life in the midst of paradise,* O all-blessed and holy Chariton. Prokeimenon, Tone 7 The venerable ones will exult in glory* and they shall be joyful in their beds. verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; let His praise be in the assembly of the venerable ones. (Psalm 149:5,1) Epistle 2 Corinthians 4:6-15 Alleluia, Tone 6 verse: Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; he shall delight exceedingly in His commandments. verse: His seed shall be mighty upon the earth. (Psalm 111:1,2) Gospel Luke 6:17-23 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):

Sep 27, 2024 - The Holy Martyr Callistratus and those with him; Our Venerable Father Nilus, Founder and Hegumen of the Grottaferrata Monastery.

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sep 27, 2024 Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. VESPERS ON THURSDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading There are no appointed psalms to be chanted tonight. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. You stretched forth Your most pure hands upon the Cross, О Christ,* summoning those who had departed far from You and settling them near Yourself;* wherefore, I pray to You: Unite me to You,* though I have been made captive by the passions,* and grant to me the repentance which washes away* all the defilement of the passions. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. You uplifted Your most pure hands upon the Tree, О Christ,* and bloodied Your fingers, desiring to deliver Adam, the work of Your divine hands,* who because of disobedience was held fast in the realm of death, О Lover of mankind;* and You raised him up by Your authority, О Almighty. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. You endured suffering for our sake, О Saviour* who are immutable by nature and dispassionate in Your divinity;* and You were crucified with thieves, О sinless and beginningless Christ.* The sun, unable to bear the audacity, dimmed its rays,* and the whole earth quaked, acknowledging You* to be the Creator of the world. Tone 8 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O martyred athlete Callistratus,* with your mind illumined by the light of piety,* you unwaveringly tread the path which lead to heavenly blessedness,* having vanquished all the wiles of the adversary.* Hence, we praise you, honouring your sacred memory,* O most blessed one. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O divinely wise martyr Callistratus, enriched by the word of life,* you guided to life those who before were dead in accursedness through ignorance;* and, dying with zeal, O glorious one, for the resurrection of us all,* they are most truly believed to dwell in Christ.* With them remember us to the all-good Lord. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O sacred martyr Gymnasius,* beheaded by the sword, you truly drowned the Pharaoh of falsehood in the torrent of your blood;* and now you pour forth healings upon all who have recourse to your temple with faith,* who praise your struggles, and celebrate your honoured memory, O blessed one. Tone 4, Glory… Before Your precious Cross, death was terrifying to men;* but after Your glorious Passion, man was terrifying to death.* Thus was the athlete able to abolish all the power of the enemy:* Through his supplications save our souls, O Christ. Now… As she beheld You, the Lamb and Shepherd, upon the Tree,* the ewe-lamb who gave You birth lamented and exclaimed to Thee maternally:* O my Son most desired,* how is it that You are suspended upon the Tree of the Cross, O Long-suffering One?* How is it that Your hands and feet, O Word, have been pierced with nails by the iniquitous,* and You have shed Your blood, O Master? Prokeimenon, Tone 6 My help is from the Lord,* Who made heaven and earth. verse: I lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from where my help shall come. Aposticha Tone1 The Cross was set up on Golgotha,* and blossomed forth immortality for us from the ever-flowing fountain* of the Saviour’s side. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. The precious Cross of the Saviour is for us an indestructible rampart;* for, placing our trust in it, we all are saved. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. By the supplications of all the saints and the Theotokos, О Lord,* grant us peace, and have mercy upon us,* in that You alone are compassionate. Glory… Now… Upon beholding Your unjust slaying, O Christ,* the Virgin, cried out to You, weeping:* “O my sweetest Child! How is it that You die unjustly?* How is it that You who has suspended the whole earth upon the waters* hangs upon the Tree?* Leave me not alone who am Your Mother and handmaiden,* I pray, O greatly merciful Benefactor!” Troparion Tone 4 Your martyrs, O Lord, by their passion acquired the crowns of incorruptibility from You, our God.* For possessing Your power they overcame the torturers* and shattered the feeble insolence of demons.* By their supplications, save our souls. Glory… Now… O Virgin, all immaculate Mother of Christ God,* a sword pierced your all-holy soul* when you saw your Son and God willingly crucified.* Therefore, O blessed One,* never cease to pray to Him* that He may grant us forgiveness of our sins. DIVINE LITURGY ON FRIDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 1: Be swayed by the pains that the saints have suffered for You, O Lord,* and heal all our pains,* O Lover of mankind, for this we pray. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: Appearing as radiant lights, O godly martyrs,* you illumine all creation with the brilliance of your miracles,* healing infirmities, always dispelling deep darkness* and praying unceasingly to Christ our God for all of us. Prokeimenon, Tone 4 To the saints who are in His land, the Lord has made wonderful all His desires in them. verse: I foresaw the Lord in my sight, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken. (Psalm 15:3,8) Epistle Philippians 1:27-2:4 Alleluia, Tone 4 verse: The just cried out and the Lord heard them, and delivered them out of their afflictions. verse: The afflictions of the just are many, and out of them all will the Lord deliver them. (Psalm 33:18,20) Gospel Luke 6:17-23 Communion Hymn Rejoice in the Lord, O you just;* praise befits the righteous.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 32:1):

Sep 26, 2024 - 🕁 The Falling Asleep of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian.

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sep 26, 2024 All-Night Vigil Great Vespers ON WEDNESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading Blessed is the man… is chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice! As witness of revelations beyond words* and interpreter of the sublime mysteries of God,* O son of Zebedee,* you have written the gospel of Christ for us.* You taught us to glorify the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer. As witness of revelations beyond words* and interpreter of the sublime mysteries of God,* O son of Zebedee,* you have written the gospel of Christ for us.* You taught us to glorify the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. As witness of revelations beyond words* and interpreter of the sublime mysteries of God,* O son of Zebedee,* you have written the gospel of Christ for us.* You taught us to glorify the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Divinely moved lyre of heavenly canticles,* you are the mystical writer* and the God-inspired voice melodiously singing the divine hymns.* Pray for the salvation of our souls. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. Divinely moved lyre of heavenly canticles,* you are the mystical writer* and the God-inspired voice melodiously singing the divine hymns.* Pray for the salvation of our souls. For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. Divinely moved lyre of heavenly canticles,* you are the mystical writer* and the God-inspired voice melodiously singing the divine hymns.* Pray for the salvation of our souls. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. O beloved of God, with your thundering voice* you declared the wisdom of God.* You constantly proclaimed aloud the hidden word by frequently saying:* In the beginning was the Word.* You have illumined all with the knowledge of God. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O beloved of God, with your thundering voice* you declared the wisdom of God.* You constantly proclaimed aloud the hidden word by frequently saying:* In the beginning was the Word.* You have illumined all with the knowledge of God. Tone 2, Glory… Let all the human race give the praise that is due to John, the son of thunder,* the virgin apostle and the bearer of God's message,* the chief theologian and the first to proclaim the truths* which are contained in the teachings of divine Wisdom.* For always being filled with that which is divine, he said:* In the beginning was the Word, not separated from the Father* but equal to the Father according to His nature,* thereby showing us the right worship of the Holy Trinity.* He has also shown us that the Word was with the Father, the Creator of all,* and that He bears life and has shown us the true light.* O awesome marvel! O Wisdom! * John was filled with love for God;* he was also filled with glory, honour, and faith;* he was the preacher of our pure faith.* Because of this, we shall obtain eternal blessing on the day of judgment. 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) I John 3:21- 4:6; (2) I John 4:11-16; (3) I John 4:20-5:5 At the Lytia Tone 1 O Apostle, rivers of theology poured out from your precious mouth. * The Church of God has drunk from them * and in true faith adores the consubstantial Trinity.* O John the Divine, pray to the Holy Trinity* to strengthen the Church and to save our souls.* The garden of purity, the fragrant myrrh, * has again come upon us in the present feast* so that we may cry aloud:* O John, the apostle who reclined on the bosom of the Master,* and made the word fall on the world like rain,* you have guarded the Virgin as the most cherished one.* Ask Christ to grant us his great mercy. As an eye-witness of the ineffable mysteries,* you cried out that the eternal Word was in God and that He is God.* O Apostle John, you reclined upon the breast of Christ. * O delight of the Trinity, * O unshakable fortitude of Ephesus and Patmos, help us! * O blessed Theologian, pray that those who honour you faithfully* will be delivered from the wicked enemies* of both body and spirit. O Disciple of the Saviour, O celibate and theologian,* Christ our God entrusted the Virgin Theotokos to you.* You protected her as the most cherished one.* Therefore, intercede that our souls may be saved. Tone 4, Glory… O beloved Disciple, at the Lord's supper* you reclined on the breast of Christ the Master.* From that place you understood things ineffable,* and your heavenly voice thundered to all:* In the beginning was the Word;* the Word was in God's presence, and the Word was God.* The true light which gives light to everyone was coming into the world.* Christ is God and the Saviour of our souls. Now… The Son, glorified on high with the Father and the Spirit by the Cherubim,* desired to restore Adam.* He completely and ineffably emptied himself in your womb, O ever-praised Theotokos;* and having shone forth from you,* He has enlightened the world with his divinity.* Christ the Lord and Saviour of our souls,* having divinized the human race,* led us back to heaven. Aposticha Tone 4 You are the theologian who spoke of the Son of the Most High.* He is co-eternal and consubstantial with the Father,* Light from unchangeable Light, and Image of the very person of the Father,* shining from Him eternally and without change,* the Creator and Lord of all. * O beloved, you have preached about Christ our God to the world,* who is the Light leading us out of darkness. Through all the world their voice resounds; their message reaches to the ends of the earth. Having received the light of the Comforter* and having been enlightened by Him, * O beloved, as theologian* you taught that the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father* and was manifested to mankind by the Son.* He is equal in holiness, essence, and majesty* with the eternal Father and the Word of God.* We, therefore, venerate you in hymns as the blessed preacher of our faith.* Keep it firm by your prayers to the Lord, our God. The heavens proclaim your wonders, O Lord; the assembly of your holy ones proclaims your truth. Having ascended to the height of theology,* you have learned the ineffable mysteries of God:* that the essence of the Godhead is one;* one glory, one kingdom, and one dominion,* ever-divided into three Persons,* yet undivided in essence, * united in a divine union without confusion.* Thus you gloriously proclaimed the undivided Trinity.* O Theologian, entreat God to save and enlighten our souls. Tone 6, Glory… O apostle of Christ, O evangelist, O theologian, * you were the mystic of the ineffable mysteries.* You proclaimed to us the untold teachings of Wisdom.* You clarified for the faithful* that the Word was present to God in the beginning.* You cast aside the words of the heretics* and rejected their false teachings.* You appeared as the favourite and beloved friend of Christ,* even as the thundering Isaiah and Moses who saw God.* Having boldness before Him, earnestly pray 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. Troparion Tone 2 O beloved apostle of Christ our God,* hasten, deliver a people without defense.* He who received you when you leaned upon His breast accepts you as you bow in prayer.* Implore Him, O Theologian, to scatter the cloud of nations that besets us,* asking peace and great mercy for us. (2) Rejoice, Mother of God, Virgin Mary, full of grace!* The Lord is with you.* Blessed are you among women,* and blessed is the fruit of your womb.* For you have borne Christ, the Saviour and Redeemer of our souls. DIVINE LITURGY ON THURSDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 2: O beloved apostle of Christ our God,* hasten, deliver a people without defense.* He who received you when you leaned upon His breast accepts you as you bow in prayer.* Implore Him, O Theologian, to scatter the cloud of nations that besets us,* asking peace and 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: O virgin apostle, who can recount your mighty works?* For you pour out wonders and healings* and you pray for our souls as Theologian and friend of Christ. Prokeimenon, Tone 8 Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. verse: The heavens tell the glory of God, and the firmament declares the work of His hand. (Psalm 18:5,2) Epistle 1 John 4:12-19 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 19:25-27; 21:24-25 Communion Hymn Their utterance has gone forth into all the earth,* and their words unto the ends of the world.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 18:5):

Sep 25, 2024 - Our Venerable Mother Euphrosyne.

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sep 25, 2024 VESPERS ON TUESDAY EVENING Kathisma Reading The appointed psalms are chanted. At Psalm 140 Tone 1 If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered. Nailed to the Cross as a man, О Christ God,* You deified human nature and slay the serpent, the author of evil.* Becoming accursed in that You are compassionate,* You freed us from the curse which has its origin in the tree.* And You came that You might give blessing* and great mercy to all. I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord. Though You are exalted far above all honour, О Master,* You deigned to be dishonoured, enduring a violent death upon the Tree,* that when You died in the flesh, О Almighty,* through it the race of mankind might embrace immortality* and receive again its primal life. From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord. О most precious Cross, purification of all the faithful,* sanctify all who bow down before you and glorify Christ,* who stretched out His most pure hands upon you in His ineffable loving-kindness,* and who has gathered together all the ends of the earth. Tone 5 For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities. O right wondrous and venerable mother Euphrosyne,* desiring gladness, you tread the path which brings it;* for you traded riches for great poverty,* a betrothed in the flesh for One who lives eternally,* corruptible food for abstinence,* rest for the pangs of ascetic endeavour,* that which is in the world for the life of heaven,* which you have received with the wise virgins, keeping your lamp continually alight,* and vouchsafed the bridal-chamber as a virgin,* in that you are the bride of Christ, O most lauded one. Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people. Quenching the thirst of your mind with the streams of your tears,* you produced the fruits of virtue through fasting,* and as a most comely vine you have given rise to beautiful grapes, O honoured one.* Manifestly delighting our spiritual senses with the divine juice thereof,* we take true delight in your likeness and rejoice with divine gladness,* putting aside the drunkenness of sin, and crying out to you, O most honoured one:* Ever entreat Christ, that He grant unity of mind, peace, and great mercy to the whole world. Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure. O strange vision difficult for nature to accept!* How did you hide from the ancient seducer of Eve and his cruel machinations,* dwelling in the midst of men with perfect mind?* How did you pass through the fire without being consumed?* How did you conceal your womanly weakness,* strengthened by the divine power of Him who took our weakness upon Himself* and shone forth from the Maiden who knew not wedlock?* Beseech Him, joining chorus with the angels,* that He grant unity of mind, peace, and great mercy to the whole world. Tone 2, Glory… As the bride of Christ, you preserved the pure treasure of your purity* unsullied by men, O most blessed Euphrosyne;* for having caused the beauty of your body to wither away through feats of fasting,* You adorned your soul with the goodly countenance of grace;* for, having manifestly concealed your womanhood under the guise of a man,* you hid from the pursuit of Belial, living an angelic life.* Ask peace for those who praise you with love,* in that you are the namesake of gladness, O divinely blessed one. Now… When you beheld hanging upon the Tree the most ripe Cluster,* whom you bore as a babe in your womb without being cultivated,* you exclaimed, lamenting and crying aloud* O my Child and Benefactor, through Your divine consolations* pour forth the sweetness whereby all the drunkenness of the passions is made sober,* for the sake of me who gave You birth,* in that You are compassionate. Prokeimenon, Tone 1 Your mercy, O Lord, shall follow me* all the days of my life. verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose. Aposticha Tone 1 The Cross was set up on Golgotha,* and has blossomed forth immortality for us from the ever-flowing fountain* of the Saviour’s side. I have lifted up my eyes to You enthroned in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants are on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of a maid are on the hands of her mistress, so are our eyes on the Lord our God until He has mercy on us. The precious Cross of the Saviour is for us an indestructible rampart;* for, placing our trust therein,* we all are saved. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us; for we have been filled with shame; our soul is all too full of the mockery of the rich, of the contempt of the proud. О how good was your barter, О saints!* For you traded your blood and inherited heavenly things;* and having undergone trials for a time, you rejoice everlastingly.* Of a truth your commerce was good!* For, having forsaken corruptible things, you received those things which were incorrupt;* and joining chorus with the angels, you unceasingly hymn* the consubstantial Trinity. Tone 5, Glory… Come, all you who love virginity and are zealots of purity!* Come, phalanx of monks and choir of venerable women,* and together let us all chant to the all-blessed Euphrosyne with faith:* Rejoice, you who in a woman’s body contended manfully!* Rejoice, you who put the enemy to shame by chastity and loved Christ!* Rejoice, precious stone, namesake of gladness!* O venerable mother, never cease to pray for those who honour your memory. Now… Theotokion, or this Stavrotheotokion: When of old she beheld her Lamb lifted up upon the Cross,* the unblemished ewe-lamb, the immaculate Mistress,* exclaimed maternally and, marvelling, cried out:* What is this new sight most strange, O my sweet Child?* How is it that the people, bereft of grace, are betraying You to the tribunal of Pilate* and condemning You, the Life of all, to death?* Yet I sing of Your ineffable Condescension, O Word! Troparia Tone 8 The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O mother,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh which passes* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* And so, O venerable woman, Euphrosyne,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Glory… Now… When the Mother beheld upon the cross* the Lamb, the Shepherd, and the Saviour of the world,* she exclaimed tearfully:* The world rejoices at the sight of its redemption,* but my heart is afire as I see Your pain on the cross,* which You accept for the sake of all, O my Son and my God! DIVINE LITURGY ON WEDNESDAY MORNING Troparia and Kontakia Troparion, Tone 8: The divine image was faithfully preserved in you, O mother,* for taking up the Cross you followed Christ.* By your deeds you have taught us to see beyond flesh which passes* and care for the soul, a thing immortal.* And so, O venerable woman, Euphrosyne,* your spirit rejoices with the angels. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen. Kontakion, Tone 2: For love of the Lord, O venerable woman,* you scorned the desire for rest and enlightened your soul through fasting,* for you have mightily conquered the beasts.* Through your prayers thwart the rage of fiends. 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 Philippians 1:12-20 Alleluia, Tone 1 verse: With expectation I have waited for the Lord, and he was attentive to me, and He heard my prayer. verse: He brought me out of the pit of misery and the mud of the swamp. (Psalm 39:2,3) Gospel Luke 5:33-39 Communion Hymn The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear*. Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6):