For my sister MARY and my brothers JOHN and GEORGE and their spouses ANTHONY,EVA, and KALLIOPE

Contents

How To Use This Book

The Sunday Orthros consists of Fixed and Variable parts. The former are read and/or sung each Sunday except for certain feast days, while the variable parts depend on the eight tones and the church calendar. For the latter, it is important to consult the annual Taxis issued by the Patriarchate.

The FIXED PARTS consist of the following:

The beginning prayers, the Six Psalms, and the Petitions of Peace; the Ektene that follows the Apolytikia & Theotokia; the Evlogetaria; the petitions which follow the Evlogetaria; the “Having Beheld the Resurrection” and Psalm 50; the prayer “O God, save Your people…”; the Hymn and Verses of the “More Honorable Than the Cherubim”; the petitions; the Theotokion; and, the Doxology and final hymns.

The VARIABLE PARTS are:

The Resurrection Apolytikia & Theotokia; the Kathismata; the Hypakoai and Anavathmoi; the Kontakia and Oikoi; the Katavasiai; the Morning Gospels; the Exaposteilaria; the Ainoi; and the Doxastika.

Preface

There has been a renewed interest in the Service of Orthros for Sundays in many churches and therefore a need for a bilingual edition to assist those whose Greek is either limited or nonexistent.

Responding therefore to numerous requests from fellow clergymen, I am offering this edition of the Orthros with the hope that it will prove useful to the increasing number of lay people and clergy who wish to pray this magnificent service of our Orthodox Church.

There is need to thank a number of individuals who have been generous with their time by reviewing portions of the translation and by offering their invaluable suggestions; my debt to them is more than I can repay: Rev. John Maheras, Dr. Michael Featherstone, and Rev. Theodore Stylianopoulos.

Finally, I owe much to Ms. Georgia Stathopoulou, Ms. Maria Moschoni, Mr. Stelyio Muksuris, and Ms. Maria Koumparakis for the care and diligence with which they prepared the typescript for the printers.

N. M. Vaporis

The Service Of The Sunday Orthros

Priest: Blessed is our God always, now and forever and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen. Holy God. Holy Mighty. Holy Immortal, have mercy on us (3).

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

All‑holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, forgive our sins. Master, pardon our transgressions. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for your name’s sake.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

People:Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be 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 and the power and the glory, of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages.

 

People:Amen. Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance. Grant victory to the Or­thodox over their adversaries and guard your commonwealth with your cross.

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

You were lifted up upon the cross of your own will, Christ our God. Grant your mercy upon the people that bear your name. In your strength make glad the Orthodox, giving them victory over their adversaries. May they have your alliance as a weapon of peace, and an in­vincible trophy.

Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

O awesome and ever present protection, do not overlook, O gracious one, our supplications. Most‑praised Theotokos, establish the Orthodox people, save those whom you have called to govern and grant them victory from above, for you, blessed one, have given birth to God.

Priest: Have mercy on us, O God, according to your great mercy; we pray to you, hear us and have mercy.

People:Lord, have mercy (3) .

Priest: Let us pray for pious and Orthodox Christians.

People:Lord, have mercy (3) .

Priest: Let us pray for our Archbishop (Name) and our Bishop (Name).

 

People:Lord, have mercy (3).

Priest: For you are a merciful and loving God, and to you we give glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages.

People:Amen. In the name of the Lord, Father give the blessing.

Priest: Glory to the holy and consubstantial, and life‑giving, and undivided Trinity, always, now and forever and to the ages of ages.

People:Amen.

The Six Psalms

People: Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will to all people (3).

Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall proclaim your praise (2).

Psalm 3

O Lord, why are they who afflict me multi­plied? Many rise up against me. Many say to my soul, there is no salvation for him in his God. But you, O Lord, are my helper, my glory, and the lifter up of my head. I cried to the Lord with my voice, and he heard me from his holy mountain. I laid down and slept. I awoke, for the Lord has protected me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me round about. Arise, O Lord. Save me, my God. For you have struck all who without cause are my enemies. You have broken the teeth of sinners. Salva­tion belongs to the Lord, and your blessing is upon your people.

(Again) I have laid down and slept. I awoke, for the Lord has protected me.

Psalm 37

O Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger, nor chasten me in your wrath. For your arrows are fixed in me, and you have pressed your hand heavily upon me. There is no health in my flesh in the face of your wrath; there is no peace in my bones in the face of my sins. For my transgressions have risen higher than my head; they have pressed heavily upon me as a heavy burden. My bruises have become noi­some and corrupt in the face of my foolishness. I have been wretched and bowed down utterly until the end; all day long I went with down­cast face. For my soul is filled with mocking; and there is no health in my flesh. I have been afflicted and I have been greatly humbled. I have roared from the groaning of my heart. But O Lord, all my desire is before you, and my groaning is not hidden from you. My heart is troubled, my strength has failed me; and the light of my eyes, is not with me. My friends and my neighbors drew up against me and stood still, and my nearest relatives stood far off. And they who sought my soul used vio­lence; and they who sought evil for me spoke vain things and they meditated craftiness all day long. But as for me, like a deaf man I heard them not, and I was a speechless man who opened not his mouth. And I became a man who hears not and has no reproofs in his mouth. For I have hoped in you, O Lord. You will listen to me, O Lord my God. For I said: never let my enemies rejoice over me. Yes, when my feet were shaken, those men spoke boastful words against me. For I am ready for scourges, and my sorrow is continually before me. For I will declare my iniquity, and be dis­tressed for my sin. But my enemies live and are mightier than I, and they who hated me unjust­ly are multiplied. They who render me evil for good have slandered me because I followed righteousness. Do not forsake me, O Lord my God, do not depart from me. Be attentive to my help, O Lord, of my salvation.

(Again) Do not forsake me, Lord, my God, be not far from me. Make haste to help me, Lord of my salvation.

Psalm 62 (63)

O God, my God, early at dawn I rise to you. My soul thirsts for you; my flesh longs for you in a barren, untrodden and unwatered land. So I have appeared before you in the sanctuary to see your power and your glory. For your mercy is better than life; my lips shall praise you. Thus I shall bless you while I live, and I will lift up my hands in your name. Let my soul be filled with marrow and fatness, and my mouth shall praise you with joyful lips. When I remember you on my bed, I meditate on you at dawn, for you have become my helper; I shall rejoice in the shelter of your wings. My soul follows close behind you; your right hand has been quick to help me. But those who seek my life, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth. They shall fall by the sword; they shall be a portion for jackals. But the king shall rejoice in God; everyone who swears by him shall be praised; but the mouths of those who speak lies shall be stopped.

(Again) I meditate on you at dawn, for you have become my helper. I shall rejoice in the shelter of your wings. My soul follows close behind you; your right hand has been quick to help me.

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Alleluia (3). Lord, have mercy (3). Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Psalm 87 (88)

O Lord, God of my salvation, I have cried out day and night before you. Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry. For my soul is filled with evil, and my life draws near to Hades. I am counted with those who go down into the pit; I am like a man without help, adrift among the dead, like the bodies of the slain who sleep in the grave, whom you remember no more, and are cut off from your hand. They have laid me in the lowest pit, in darkness, and the shadow of death. Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you have afflicted me with all your waves. You have made me an abomination to them; I am shut up, and I can­not get out; my eyes have grown weak from poverty. I have cried to you, Lord, the entire day. I have stretched out my hands to you. Will you work wonders for the dead? Or shall physicians raise them up so that they might thank you? Shall any in the grave speak of your mercy and your truth in the place of destruc­tion? Shall your wonders be known in the dark, and your righteousness in the land of forget­fulness? But as for me, I have cried out to you, Lord, and in the morning my prayer shall come before you. Lord, why do you cast off my soul, and turn away from me? I am a poor man and in trouble. From my youth, having been ex­alted, I was humbled and brought to distress. Your fierce wrath has gone over me, and your terrors have solely troubled me. They came around me all day long like water; they en­gulfed me altogether. You have put far away from me friend and neighbor, and my acquain­tances because of my misery.

(Again) O Lord, God of my salvation, I have cried out day and night before you. Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry.

Psalm 102 (103)

Bless the Lord, my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, my soul, and forget not all that he has done for you. He forgives all your iniquities. He heals all your infirmities. He redeems your life from corruption. He crowns you with mercy and compassion. He satisfies your desire with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord performs deeds of mercy, and justice for all who are wronged. He made known his ways to Moses, his acts to the chil­dren of Israel. The Lord is merciful and com­passionate, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. He will not always strive with us, nor will be keep his anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our iniquities, nor has he rewarded us according to our sins. For as heavens are high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our iniquities from us. As a father has compassion upon his son, so has the Lord com­passion upon those who fear him. For he knows what we are made of, he remembers that we are dust. As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so shall the blossom. For the wind passes over it, then it shall be gone. And its place remembers it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from eternity to eter­nity upon those who fear him, and his righte­ousness is upon sons of sons, upon those who keep his covenant and remember to do his com­mandments. The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all. Bless the Lord, all of his angels, who excel in strength, who do his word, heeding the voice of his word. Bless the Lord, all you his hosts, you minister of his, who do his pleasure. Bless the Lord, all his works, in all places of his dominion. Bless the Lord, my soul.

(Again) In all places of his dominion, bless the Lord, O my soul.

Psalm 142 (143)

Lord, hear my prayer. In your truth, give ear to my supplications; in righteousness, hear me. And enter not into judgment with your ser­vant for no one living is justified in your sight. For the enemy has pursued my soul; he has crushed my life to the ground; he has made me dwell in darkness, like those who have long been dead, and my spirit is overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is distressed. I re­membered the days of old; I meditated on all your works; I pondered on the work of your hands. I spread out my hands to you; my soul longs for you like a thirsty land. Lord, hear me quickly; my spirit fails. Turn not your face away from me, lest I be like those who go down into the pit. Let me to hear your mercy in the morning, for in you I have put my trust. Lord, teach me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Rescue me, Lord, from my enemies; to you have I fled for refuge. Teach me to do your will for you are my God. Your good Spirit shall lead me on a level path; Lord, for your name’s sake, you shall preserve my life. In your righteousness, you shall bring my soul out of trouble, and in your mercy, you shall utterly destroy my enemies. And you shall destroy all those who afflict my soul, for I am your servant.

(Again) Hear me, O Lord, in your righ­teousness, and enter not into judgment with your servant (2) . Your good Spirit shall lead me on a level path.

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, glory to You, O God (3), O Lord my hope, glory to you.

Priest: In peace let us pray to the Lord.

 

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For the peace of God and the salvation of our souls, let us pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For peace in the whole world, for the stability of the holy churches of God, and for the unity of all, let us pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For this holy house and for those who enter it with faith, reverence, and the fear of God, let us pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For our Archbishop (Name) our Bishop (Name), the honorable presbyters, the deacons in the service of Christ, and all the clergy and laity, let us pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For our country, the president, and all those in public service, let us pray to the Lord.

 

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For this parish and city, for every city and town, and for the faithful who live in them, let us pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For favorable weather, an abundance of the fruits of earth, and temperate seasons, let us pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For travelers by land, sea, and air, for the sick, the suffering, the captives, and for their salvation, let us pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For our deliverance from all affliction, wrath, danger, and distress, let us pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: Help us, save us, have mercy upon us, and protect us, O God, by your grace.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: Remembering our most holy, pure, blessed, and glorious Lady, the Theotokos and ever‑virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us commit ourselves and one another and our whole life to Christ our God.

People:To You, O Lord.

Priest: For to you belong all glory, honor, and worship to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages.

People:Amen. The Lord is God and has revealed himself to us. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

(Then the Troparion of the day following verses according to the tone.)

Verse 1. Give thanks to the Lord and call upon his holy name.

Verse 2. All the nations have encircled me, but in the name of the Lord I repulsed them.

Verse 3. This has been done of the Lord; and it is wonderful in our eyes.

(The resurrection apolytikion of the tone is then chanted. “Glory” (the troparion of the saint, if there is one), or “Glory” and the apolytikion again. “Now and forever” and the Theotokion of the tone.)

 

Resurrection Apolytikia And Theotokia Of The Eight Tones

First Tone

Though the tomb was sealed by a stone and soldiers guarded your pure body, you arose, O Savior, on the third day, giving life to the world. Therefore, O giver of life, the heavenly powers praise you: Glory to your resurrection, O Christ, glory to your kingdom, glory to your plan of redemption, O only loving God.

At the sound of Gabriel’s voice calling out to you: Hail, Virgin, the Master of all became incarnate in you the holy Tabernacle as David the righteous said. By bearing your creator, you have shown yourself to be more vast than the heavens. Glory to him who dwelled in you: glory to him who came forth from you; Glory to him who by your birth‑giving has set us free.

Second Tone

When you descended into death, O life immortal, you destroyed Hades with the splendor of your divinity, and when you raised the dead from the depths of darkness, all the heavenly powers shouted: O giver of life, Christ our God, glory to you.

Your mystery, O Theotokos, is most glorious and passes all understanding. For stamped with the seal of purity and inviolate in virginity, you are acknowledged without doubt to be the Mother who has given birth to the true God. Beseech him to save our souls.

Third Tone

Let the heavens rejoice and the earth be glad, for the Lord has shown the power of his reign. He has conquered death by death and become the first born of the dead. He has delivered us from the depths of Hades and has granted the world great mercy.

We sing your praises, O Virgin Theotokos. You intercede for the salvation of our kind, for by taking flesh of you and deigning to suffer the cross, Your Son and our God has delivered us from corruption as a loving God.

Fourth Tone

The joyful news of your resurrection was told to the women disciples of the Lord by the angel. Having thrown off the ancestral curse, and boasting, they told the apostles: death has been vanquished, Christ our God. is risen, bestowing on the world great mercy.

The mystery hidden from all ages and unknown to the angels was made manifest to those on earth through you, O Theotokos. God took flesh in a union without confusion and for our sake willingly accepted the cross. Thereby he raised the first man and saved our souls from death.

Plagial Of The First Tone

Let us, the faithful, give praise and wor­ship to the Word, coeternal with the Father and the Spirit and born of the Virgin for our salva­tion. Of his own will he mounted the cross in the flesh, suffered death, and raised the dead by his glorious resurrection.

Hail! impassable gateway of the Lord. Hail! wall and protection of those who take refuge in you. Hail! heaven untroubled by storms. Hail! you who have not known wedlock and have born your Son and maker and God in the flesh. Fail not in your intercession on behalf of those who praise and worship your Son.

Plagial Of The Second Tone

The angelic powers appeared at your tomb, and those guarding it became as dead. Mary stood at your grave seeking your pure body. But you stripped the power of Hades, yet were not touched by corruption. You met the virgin and granted her life. O Lord, who rose from the dead, glory to you.

You called your mother blessed and came to your passion willingly. And wishing to search out Adam, you made light shine with the cross, saying to the angels: Rejoice with me, for I have found the lost piece of silver. Glory to you, O God. You have ordered all things wisely.

Grave Tone

By your cross you destroyed death, and opened paradise to the thief. You transformed the sorrow of the Myrrh‑bearers, and com­manded the apostles to proclaim that you have risen from the dead, Christ our God, granting to the world great mercy.

As the treasure of our resurrection, O Virgin, worthy of all praise, you lead those who have put their faith in you out of the pit and abyss of their offences. Before bearing a child you were a virgin, and in childbirth and after childbirth you remained a virgin. You have saved us who were subject to sin by giving birth to our salvation.

Plagial Of The Fourth Tone

You descended from on high, O merciful Lord, and accepted the three‑day burial in order to free us from our passions. Glory to you, O Lord, our life and our resurrection.

O good Lord, for our sake you were born of a virgin and endured crucifixion, despoiling death by death. As God, you have shown us the resurrection. Show your love for all of us, O merciful Lord. Accept the intercession made on our behalf by the Theotokos who bore you, and, O Savior, save a despairing people.

 

Priest: In peace let us again pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: Help us, save us, have mercy upon us, and protect us, O God, by your grace.

 

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: Remembering our most‑holy, pure, blessed, and glorious Lady, the Theotokos and ever‑virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us commit ourselves and one another and our whole life to Christ our God.

People:To You, O Lord.

Priest: For yours is the dominion, the kingdom, the power, and the glory of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

Kathismata

First Tone

The First Stichologia.

The soldiers who kept watch over your grave, O Savior, became as dead from the light of the appearing angel who announced the resurrection to the women. We glorify you, the remover of corruption, and bow down to you, who rose from the grave and are our only Lord.

Glory.

You were nailed upon the cross willingly, merciful One, and were placed in a grave as dead, O giver of life. You trampled the power of death, O mighty One by your death. Before you the gate keepers of Hades trembled, and you raised with you those who were dead for ages, as the only loving God.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

We all know you as Mother of God, and even after giving birth you appeared to us, who eagerly seek refuge in your goodness, as true virgin: For we sinners have you as protectress, and in temptations find salvation in you, the only blameless one.

The Second Stichologia.

The women went to the grave early and trembled when they beheld an angelic vision. When the grave showed forth life, they were struck with amazement. Therefore, they returned to the disciples and proclaimed the resurrection. Christ has invaded Hades, as the only powerful and mighty One who raised with him all those who were corrupt and with the power of the cross, removed the fear of condemnation.

Glory.

You were nailed upon the cross, O Life of all, and were numbered among the dead, O im­mortal Lord. You rose after three days, O Savior, and raised Adam from corruption. Therefore, the heavenly powers cried out to you, O giver of life, glory to your resurrection, glory to your condescension, O only loving God.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

Mary, the holy vessel of the Master, raised us who have fallen into the abyss of evil despair, trespasses, and sorrows. For you have given salvation, help, and strong protection to sinners, and you save your servants.

Second Tone

The First Stichologia.

Noble Joseph, taking down your most pure body from the Tree, wrapped it in clean linen with sweet spices, and laid it in a new tomb. But you rose on the third day, O Lord, grant­ing great mercy to the world.

Glory.

The angel stood by the tomb, and cried aloud to the myrrh‑bearing woman: myrrh is fitting for the dead, but Christ has shown himself a stranger to corruption. Cry out in­stead: Christ is risen granting great mercy to the world.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

We praise you, O Theotokos Virgin who are exceedingly glorified. For by the cross of your Son Hades has been destroyed and death has been put to death. Being dead, we rose and became worthy of life, and gained paradise, the ancient bliss. Therefore, with thanks we glorify our God as the mighty Christ and the only most compassionate one.

 

 

The Second Stichologia.

As you did not inhibit the stone from seal­ing the tomb, you bestowed on all the rock of faith by your resurrection. O Lord, glory to you.

Glory.

The assembly of your disciples rejoices in unison with the myrrh‑bearing women. For we celebrate with them a common festival to the glory and honor of your resurrection, and through them, O loving Lord, grant great mer­cy to your people.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

You are exceedingly blessed, O Virgin Theotokos, for Hades has been taken captive by him who was incarnate of you. Adam was recalled, the curse was abolished, Eve was delivered, death was put to death and we were given life. Therefore, praising you we cry aloud: Blessed are you Christ our God, who thus was well pleased, glory to you.

Third Tone

The First Stichologia.

Christ is risen from the dead, the first‑fruits of those who have fallen asleep, the First‑born of creation and the Creator of all things. He has renewed in himself the nature of our cor­rupt race. Therefore, O death, you shall reign supreme no more, for the Master of all has nullified your power.

Glory.

When you tasted death in the flesh, O Lord, you checked the bitterness of death by your resurrection and strengthened us, restoring vic­tory over the old curse. Therefore, O Lord, defender of our life, glory to you.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

Gabriel stood amazed at the beauty of your virginity and at the splendor of your purity, and he cried out to you, O Theotokos. What praise is worthy for me to bring to you? I hesitate and marvel. Therefore, as commanded I cry out to you: Rejoice! you who are full of grace.

The Second Stichologia.

Because of your immutable divinity, O Lord, and your voluntary suffering, Hades was overwhelmed and groaned within itself saying: I dread the person of the incorruptible body, for I see the unseen fighting me secretly. Therefore, those whom I held cry out: glory to your resurrection, O Christ.

Glory.

Let us believers speak of divine things, of your inscrutable crucifixion, and your ineffable resurrection. For today death and Hades have been led captive and the human race has been invested with incorruption. Therefore, we cry with joy: Glory to your resurrection, O Christ.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

You held in your womb secretly, O Mother of God, the incomprehensible, the boundless, and the one consubstantial with the Father and the Spirit. And by your birth‑giving we have learned to glorify in the world the act of the unconfused Trinity. Therefore, with joy we cry out to you: Rejoice, you who are full of grace.

Fourth Tone

The First Stichologia.

Having glanced at the entrance of the grave, and not bearing the brilliance of the angel, the myrrh‑bearing women said in astonishment: Was he stolen who opened paradise to the thief? Did he rise who before his passion preached resurrection? Truly Christ our God has risen granting life and resurrection to those in Hades.

Glory.

You willingly suffered crucifixion, O Savior, and mortal men placed you in a tomb, who with a word established the corners of the earth. Therefore, death, the stranger, was bound and defeated. And all those in Hades cried out through your resurrection. Truly, O Christ, the life‑giver is risen, for he remains constant to the ages.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

Joseph was amazed when he beheld your supernatural conception without seed, O Theotokos. But your betrothed recalled the rain falling on the fleece of wool, and the bush burning without fire but not consumed. And he testified before the priests, and cried out: A virgin gives birth and after giving birth remains a virgin again.

The Second Stichologia.

As immortal you rose from the tomb, O Savior, raising up with you your world by your resurrection, O Christ our God. You shattered the power of death proclaiming your resurrection to all, O merciful One. Therefore, we glorify you, the only loving God.

Glory.

Having descended from the heights, wrapped in a white robe, and coming to the stone where the rock of life was, Gabriel shouted to the weeping women saying: Cease your wailing and crying, and receive smiling joy with comfort. For he whom you seek weeping is truly risen. Therefore go and proclaim to the apostles that the Lord is risen.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

All the ranks of angels were amazed, O pure one, by the mystery of your awesome birth-giving; how the all‑encompassing One, at a sign was encompassed in your arms as a babe, and he who is eternal received a temporal beginning, and he who feeds every living soul with his ineffable goodness was nourished with milk. Therefore, they glorify you with praise, for you are truly the Theotokos.

Plagial of the First Tone

The First Stichologia.

Let us laud the cross of the Lord, and honor his sacred burial, and praise most highly his resurrection; for as God he raised the dead from the graves, and led captive the mighty of death, the power of the devil, and has shed light on those in Hades.

Glory.

You were deemed dead, O God, who put death to death. You were placed in a grave, you who emptied the graves. Above, soldiers guarded the grave; below, you raised those who had been dead for ages. Almighty and incomprehensible Lord, glory to you.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

Rejoice, holy mountain on which God walked. Rejoice, living bush that is un­consumed. Rejoice, the only bridge to God from earth, who guides mortals to eternal life. Re­joice, O pure One, free of corruption, who gave birth without wedlock to the Savior of our souls.

The Second Stichologia.

Lord, after your resurrection on the third day and the veneration of your apostles, Peter cried out: the women dared but I cowered in fear. The thief spoke of your divinity, but I denied you. Will you continue to call me a disci­ple? Or will you make me again a fisherman of the deep? Accept me as a repentant, O God, and save me.

Glory.

They hanged you in the midst of the trans­gressors, O Lord and pierced your side with a lance, O merciful One. You accepted the grave, though you shattered the gates of Hades and rose on the third day. Women hastened to see you and announced your rising to the apostles. Most exalted Savior, whom angels praise, blessed Lord, glory to you.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

O birth‑giver of God, O bride who has not tried marriage, you who changed Eve’s sorrow to joy, we faithful praise and venerate you, for you have lifted from us the ancient curse. Intercede for us now without ceasing, all‑praised Virgin, that we may be saved.

Plagial of the Second Tone

The First Stichologia.

When the tomb was shown to be open and Hades wailing, Mary cried out to the apostles who were hiding: Come out laborers of the vineyard and proclaim the news of the resurrection, for the Lord is risen, granting great mercy to the world.

Glory.

Mary Magdalene, O Lord, stood by your tomb weeping. And thinking you were the gardener, she said: Where have you hidden the immortal Life? Where have you placed him who sits on the throne of the Cherubim? For they who were guarding him appeared dead from fear. She cried to them: Either give me my Lord or cry out with me: You who were among the dead and raised the dead, glory to you.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

Gideon prefigured your conception and David interpreted your birth‑giving, O Theotokos. For the Word fell on your womb as rain on a fleece, and so you brought forth without seed the holy Lord, Christ our God, O full of grace.

The Second Stichologia.

Life was placed in the grave, and a seal was placed on the stone. Soldiers guarded Christ as they would a sleeping king. But the Lord rose, smiting his enemies in an invisible way.

Glory.

Jonah prefigured your tomb, and Symeon interpreted your divine rising, O immortal God. For you descended as dead into the grave, you who broke the gates of Hades and rose free of corruption for the salvation of the world as Master, O Christ our God, having illumined those in darkness.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

Beseech, O virgin Theotokos, your Son, Christ our God, who was willingly nailed upon the cross and rose from the dead that he may save our souls.

Grave Tone

The First Stichologia.

Life was placed in a grave and a seal was placed on the stone, and soldiers guarded Christ as they would a sleeping king and angels glorified him as immortal God, while the woman cried out: the Lord is risen, granting great mercy to the world.

Glory.

You led death captive by your three‑day burial, and raised corrupt man by your life-giving resurrection, Christ our God, as the only loving God, glory to you.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

Virgin Theotokos, intercede untiringly to Christ God who was crucified for our sake and who rose and broke the might of death to save our souls.

The Second Stichologia.

While the tomb was sealed, Christ God, life rose from the grave, and while the doors were closed, you came to the disciples, O Resurrec­tion of all, renewing in us, through them, an upright spirit, according to the greatness of your mercy.

Glory.

The myrrh‑bearing women with tears hastened to your grave, while soldiers guarded you, O King of all, and they said to themselves: who shall roll away the stone for us? But the messenger of the great council rose, trampling down death. Almighty Lord, glory to you.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

Rejoice, full of grace, Virgin Theotokos, our intercessor and heaven of the human race. For from you the Savior of the world was in­carnate. You alone are both mother and virgin and ever‑blessed and glorified. Intercede with Christ our God to grant peace to the world.

Plagial of the Fourth Tone

The First Stichologia.

You rose from the dead, O Life of all, and a resplendent angel cried out to the women: stop your tears and inform the apostles. Cry out in praise that Christ the Lord is risen, be­ing pleased as God to save human race.

Glory.

You truly rose from the tomb, and you com­manded the righteous women to announce to the apostles the resurrection, as it was written. And as for Peter, he hastened to the tomb, and when he saw the light in the grave he was amazed. Then he saw the linen clothes lying on the side, for no one can see things in the dark of the night, and he believed, and cried out: Glory to you, Christ God, for you save us all, our Savior, be­ing the Father’s radiance.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

Let us glorify the heavenly gate, the taber­nacle, the most holy mountain, the shining cloud, the heavenly ladder, the paradise endowed with speech, the deliverer of Eve, .the treasure of the world. For by her salvation and the forgiveness of ancient sins came to the world. Therefore, we cry out to her: Intercede with your Son and God to grant forgiveness of sins to those who reverently venerate your all‑holy birth‑giving.

The Second Stichologia.

Men sealed your tomb, O Savior, and angels rolled the stone from your grave. Women witnessed your resurrection from the dead, and they proclaimed to your disciples in Sion that you are risen, O Life of all, and broke asunder the bonds of death. O Lord, glory to you.

Glory.

When the women came with burial myrrh, they heard an angelic voice from the grave say­ing: Stop your tears and receive joy instead of sorrow, and cry out in praise that Christ the Lord is risen, who being God was pleased to save the human race.

Now and forever. Theotokion.

All creation rejoices in you who are full of grace, the assemblies of angels and the race of men, O holy temple, and rational paradise, the boast of virginity, from you God was made incarnate and became a child while remaining eternal God. For he made your womb a throne, and your belly more spacious than heaven. All creation rejoices in you who are full of grace.

Evlogetaria

Plagial of the First Tone

Blessed are You, Lord, teach me your statutes.

The company of angels was amazed seeing you numbered among the dead, O Savior, who destroyed the power of death and raised up Adam with yourself, setting all free from Hades.

Blessed are You, Lord, teach me your statutes.

Why mingle spices with tears of pity, O women disciples, cried the resplendent angel from within the tomb to the myrrh‑bearing women. Behold the tomb and understand, for the Savior has risen from the grave.

Blessed are You, O Lord, teach me your statutes.

The myrrh‑bearing women hastened early in the morning to your tomb lamenting. But the angel arose before them and said: The time for lamentation has ceased. Weep not, but tell the apostles of the resurrection.

Blessed are you, Lord, teach me your statutes.

The myrrh‑bearing women came to your tomb, O Savior. But they heard an angel say to them: Why count the living one among the dead? For as God he has risen from the tomb.

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

We worship the Father together with the Son and the Holy Spirit, the Holy Trinity, one in essence, and we cry together with the Sera­phim: Holy, holy, holy, are you, O Lord.

Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

O Virgin, you have given birth to the Giver of life; you have delivered Adam from sin, and to Eve you have brought joy in the place of sor­row. He who took flesh from you, who is both God and man, has raised up those who had fallen from life.

Alleluia, Alleluia, alleluia, glory to You, O God (3).

Priest: Let us again in peace pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: Help us, save us, have mercy upon us, and protect us, O God, by your grace.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: Remembering our most holy, pure, blessed, and glorious Lady, the Theotokos and ever‑virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us com­mit ourselves and one another, and our whole life to Christ our God.

People:To You, OLord.

Priest: For blessed is your name, and glorified is your kingdom, of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages.

People:Amen.

 

(The reader then reads the hypakoe and following that, the anavathmoi of the designated tone of the week are sung)

First Tone

Hypakoe

The repentance of the thief gained him paradise by stealth, and the sighing of the myrrh‑bearing women proclaimed glad tidings that you are risen, O Christ, granting great mercy to the world.

Anavathmoi. First Antiphon

O Lord, I cry to you in my sorrow. Hear my cry of pain.

The lodging for God is unceasing among those who dwell in the desert, for they are removed from this vain world.

Glory . . . now and forever

Glory and honor become the Holy Spirit, as they become the Father and the Son. Therefore, let us praise the Trinity, one in might.

Second Antiphon

O God, raise me to the heights of your laws, and shed brightly your light of virtue upon me that I may praise you.

O Word, hold me fast with your right hand; keep me and preserve me, lest the fire of sin consume me.

Glory . . . now and forever

All creation is regenerated by the Holy Spirit, and returns to its former self, for he is co‑omnipotent with the Father and the Word.

Third Antiphon

My soul rejoices with those who say to me: Let us go into the courts of the Lord, and my heart is exceedingly glad.

There shall be great fear in the house of David where the thrones shall be set, and all races and tongues of the earth shall be judged.

Glory . . . now and forever

It is fitting to offer honor, worship, glory, and might to the Holy Spirit as to the Father and the Son, for the Trinity is one in substance, but not in persons.

Prokeimenon

Now I shall arise, says the Lord. I shall set myself for salvation; I shall speak boldly of it. (3)

Verse: The words of the Lord are pure words.

 

 

 

Second Tone

Hypakoe

Going to the tomb after your passion to anoint your body, O Christ our God, the women saw the angels at the grave and were astonished. For they heard them crying with a loud voice: The Lord is risen granting great mercy to the world.

Anavathmoi. First Antiphon

I raise the eyes of my heart to you in heaven, O Savior. Save me by your illumination.

Have mercy on us who are guilty and transgress greatly against you in every hour, O Christ. Before the end give us the means to repent.

Glory . . . now and forever

Sovereignty over sanctification and motion of creation belong to the Holy Spirit. For he is God, consubstantial with the Father and the Word.

Second Antiphon

Unless the Lord is in our midst, who can be kept safe from the enemy and murderer?

My enemies roar like lions, O Savior. Deliver not your servants into their teeth.

Glory . . . now and forever

The Holy Spirit is the element of life and honor, for as God he empowers all creatures and preserves them in the Father and the Son.

Third Antiphon

They who put their trust in the Lord are like the holy mountains, for they are never shaken by the attacks of Belial.

Let not those who live a godly life put forth their hands to do evil, for Christ God does not allow his inheritance to the evil ones.

Glory . . . now and forever

The Holy Spirit is the fount of all wisdom; for from him comes grace to the apostles, the martyrs by him are crowned in their struggles; and the prophets see the future.

Prokeimenon

Arise, O Lord my God, according to the decree which you have commanded. And the company of nations shall surround you (3).

Verse: O Lord, my God, in You have I trusted.

Third Tone

Hypakoe

Startled by the vision of the brilliant angel of sweet words the myrrh‑bearing women say: Why do you seek the living one in the grave? He is truly risen and has emptied the tombs. Know therefore that the changeless one has changed corruption to incorruption. And say to God: How awesome are your works, for you have saved the human race.

Anavathmoi. First Antiphon

You truly delivered the captivity of Sion from Babylon, O Word. Likewise, draw me out of passions unto life.

They who sow in the south with divine tears shall reap with rejoicing the sheaves of eternal life.

Glory . . . now and forever

With the Holy Spirit shines forth every good gift, as with the Father and the Son, for everything lives and moves in him.

Second Antiphon

Unless the Lord builds the house of virtues, we labor in vain. But when the soul is under his protection, no one can destroy the city.

The saints are at all times adopted as sons by the Spirit from the fruit of the womb, and by you, O Christ as by the Father.

Glory . . . now and forever

All holiness and wisdom are seen in the Holy Spirit, for he gives essence to all creation. Let us worship him, for he is God, just as the Father and the Word.

 

Third Antiphon

Blessed are they who fear the Lord, for they shall walk in the way of his commandments, and shall eat of the fruits of life.

Rejoice, Chief Shepherd, beholding your children round your table bearing branches of virtue.

Glory . . . now and forever

All the wealth of glory is from the Holy Spirit, from which comes grace and life to all creation, for he is praised with the Father and the Word.

Prokeimenon

Say among the nations that the Lord reigns; for he has established the world so that it shall not be moved (3).

Verse: Sing to the Lord a new song; his praise is in the assembly of the saints.

Fourth Tone

Hypakoe

The Myrrh‑bearers, hastening to the apostles, proclaimed to them your rising, O Christ for you are risen as God, granting great mercy to the world.

Anavathmoi. First Antiphon

Since my youth many passions have warred against me, but, my Savior, help me and save me.

Let those who hate Sion be ashamed before the Lord, for you shall wither like the grass.

Glory . . . now and forever

Every soul is enlivened by the Holy Spirit and raised up through purification and it is made brilliant mystically by the Trinity in One.

Second Antiphon

To you, O Lord, I have cried fervently from the depth of my soul, let your divine ears hear me.

All those who have placed their trust in the Lord shall transcend all sorrows.

Glory . . . now and forever

The streams of grace overflow with the Holy Spirit who waters all creation with refreshing life.

Third Antiphon

Let my heart rise to you, O Word, and let not the pleasures of the world charm me into considering this earthly life.

And as each of us has surpassing love for his mother, even more fervently ought we to love the Lord.

Glory . . . now and forever

By the Holy Spirit comes the wealth of divine knowledge and wisdom, for the Word reveals all of his father’s teachings.

Prokeimenon

Arise, O God, help us and redeem us for your name’s sake (3).

Verse: O God, we have heard with our own ears.

Plagial of the First Tone

Hypakoe

The minds of the myrrh‑bearing women were dazzled by the vision of the angel, and their souls illumined by the divine resurrection. They brought the good news to the apostles saying: Announce the resurrection of the Lord to the nations. He works wonders and bestows on us great mercy.

Anavathmoi. First Antiphon

I sing to you, O my Lord, like David in my sorrow. Save my soul from deceitful tongues.

The life of the dwellers in the wilderness is a blessed one, for by divine love they are carried up.

Glory . . . now and forever

The Holy Spirit holds everything fast, both invisible and visible things. For he is a sover­eign being, truly one of the Trinity.

Second Antiphon

O soul, let us ascend into the mountains. Go, for your help, comes from there.

May your right hand, O Christ, touch me also, so that I may be preserved from mischievous devices.

Glory . . . now and forever

Let us speak of divine things unto the Holy Spirit: You are God, life, love, light, and mind;

you are goodness, and you reign to the ages.

Third Antiphon

Filled with great joy I offer prayers for those who have said to me: Let us go into the courts of the Lord.

In the house of David awesome wonders take place, for there is a burning fire whichconsumes every evil mind.

Glory . . . now and forever

Truly the Holy Spirit is the element of life for from him does every living thing derive its life, as in the Father and the Word.

Prokeimenon

Arise, O my Lord and my God, for you reign to the end of time (3).

Verse: I will give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart.

Plagial of the Second Tone

Hypakoe

By your life‑giving and voluntary death, O Christ, you smashed the gates of Hades as God opening to us the gates of the Paradise of old.

 

Anavathmoi. First Antiphon

To the heavens I lift up my eyes towards you, O Word of God. Have mercy upon me that I may live for you.

O Word, have mercy upon us who are wor­thless and make us your useful vessels.

Glory . . . now and forever

Truly in the Holy Spirit is the cause of salvation for all. For when he breathes on one who is worthy, he raises him speedily from ear­thly things and gives him wings raising him up.

Second Antiphon

Were not the Lord in our midst, none of us would be able to withstand the assaults of the enemy. For only victors raised up.

Woe to me, O Word. How shall I escape my enemies while I am a lover of sin? Let not my soul be delivered into their teeth like a bird.

Glory . . . now and forever

Through the Holy Spirit all are made divine. In him is pleasure, understanding, peace, and blessing. For he is equal is power to the Father and the Word.

Third Antiphon

They who trust in the Lord are feared by their enemies and are wondered at by all, for they look to things on high.

The company of the righteous have secured you as their succor, O Savior, and they shall not reach out their hands to iniquity.

Glory . . . now and forever

The Holy Spirit has power over all, for all the heavenly hosts, along with everything that has breath here below, worship him.

Prokeimenon

O Lord, raise your strength and come to our salvation (3).

Verse: Attend, O Shepherd of Israel.

Grave Tone

Hypakoe

You have taken our image and our likeness and endured crucifixion in the flesh. Save me by your resurrection, O Christ God, as a loving God.

First Antiphon

O Savior, you restored Sion from the captivity of error, deliver me also from the bondage of sufferings and restore my life.

He who sows sorrow in the south, fasting with tears, shall reap sheaves of reviving and ever-nourishing joys.

Glory . . . now and forever

In the Holy Spirit is the fountain of divine treasures, for from him comes wisdom, awe, and understanding. To him, therefore, be praise, glory, honor, and might.

Second Antiphon

Unless the Lord builds the house of the soul we labor in vain. For without him no action, no word is completed.

By spiritual inspiration the saints put forth the teachings of the fathers concerning an adop­tion by God.

Glory . . . now and forever

Existence is bestowed on all creation by the Holy Spirit. For he is God before all, the Lord of all, the unapproachable light, the life of all.

Third Antiphon

Those who fear the Lord have found the paths of life and they are blessed now and for­ever with true glory.

Rejoice and be glad, O shepherd, seeing your descendents about your table as sturdy plants and offer these same to Christ.

Glory . . . now and forever

To the Holy Spirit belong an abundance of gifts, a wealth of glory and great depth of judg­ment, for he is worshiped and is equal in glory to the Father and the Son.

Prokeimenon

Arise, O Lord my God; let your hand be lifted up. Do not forget your poor to the end of time (3).

Verse: I will give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart.

Plagial of the Fourth Tone

Hypakoe

The myrrh‑bearing women came to the tomb of the life‑giver among the dead. And when they received the glad tidings from the angels, they proclaimed to the apostles that the Lord had risen granting great mercy to the world.

First Anavathmoi

From my youth the enemy has tempted me and with temptations has beguiled me. But, O Lord, trusting in you, I have put him to shame.

Let those who hate Zion become as the grass which withers before it is pulled up, for Christ shall cut their necks with the scythe of torment.

Glory . . . now and forever

All life belongs to the Holy Spirit, Light of Light, great God: we praise him together with the Father and the Son.

Second Antiphon

Let my humble heart be mindful in awe of you, all‑merciful One, lest it be exalted and fall from you.

He who has his hope in the Lord shall not fear when he judges all with fire and punish­ment.

Glory . . . now and forever

Every godly persons who see and predicts things to come, performing heavenly wonders, does so by the Holy Spirit, singing to one God in three. For although it shined with three lights, the Godhead is one.

Third Antiphon

To you have I cried, O Lord. Listen and incline your ear towards me when I shout. Purify me before you take me from this place.

Everyone will return again to his mother, the earth, and shall suffer dissolution, to receive punishment or reward, the desserts of his life.

Glory . . . now and forever

Through the Holy Spirit the Godhead is a thrice‑holy One, for from the beginningless Father, the Son did proceed before time. And the Spirit who is their equal in appearance and on the throne has shined from the Father likewise.

Fourth Antiphon

Behold how good and delightful it is for brothers to live together. For in this way the Lord promised eternal life.

Be not concerned, for he commands the lilies of the field to adorn his clothing.

Glory . . . now and forever

Truly the Holy Spirit is the one cause of all in perfect peace. For he is God and indeed equal

to the Father and the Son in substance.

Prokeimenon

The Lord, your God, O Sion, shall reign forever, from generation to generation (3).

Verse: Praise the Lord, O my soul.

Kontakion of the First Tone

As God you rose in glory from the grave raising the world with you. All nature praises you as God; death is destroyed and Adam rejoices, O Master, while Eve, now freed from bondage, rejoices saying: It is you, O Christ, who gives the resurrection to all.

The Oikos

Let us praise him who rose on the third day as the all‑powerful God. He shattered the gates of Hades and raised from the tomb those who were there forever. He willingly appeared to the myrrh‑bearers and said to them first: Rejoice! And to the apostles he revealed joy as the only life‑giver. The women announce with joy the signs of victory to the disciples, while Hades groans and death laments, but the world is glad and all rejoice. For it is you, O Christ, who grants resurrection to all.

Kontakion of the Second Tone

You arose from the grave almighty Savior, and Hades seeing the miracle was astonished; and the dead rose. Creation seeing this, rejoices with you while Adam joins in exaltation, and the world sings your praises forever, my Savior.

The Oikos

You are the light of those in darkness; you are the resurrection and the life of all whom you have raised, having destroyed the power of death, O Savior, and shattered the gates of Hades, O Word. Seeing such wonders, mor­tals were astonished, and all creation rejoices in your resurrection, O loving one. Therefore, all glorify and praise your condescension and the world praises you forever, O Savior.

Kontakion of the Third Tone

Today, you arose from the grave, merciful Lord, and you extracted us from the gates of death. Today, Adam dances and Eve rejoices. With them the prophets and patriarchs unceas­ingly praise the might of your divine power.

The Oikos

Let heaven and earth dance today and harmoniously praise Christ our God who has raised the captives of death from the tombs. All creation rejoices offering worthy hymns to the Creator of all and our Redeemer. Today, as the giver of life, he draw the human race from Hades and raised them with himself to heaven. He crushed the pride of the enemy and shattered the gates of Hades by the power of his divinity.

Kontakion of the Fourth Tone

My Savior and Redeemer, as God you raised from the grave all those who were in chains and shattered the gates of Hades. As Lord, you arose on the third day.

The Oikos

Let us all give praise and with thanks let us of­fer unceasing praises to Christ, the giver of life who rose from the dead on the third day. To­day he shattered the gates of death, put Hades to death, broke the sting of death, and set Adam and Eve free. Let us sing to him, all you people, and with thanks let us offer him unceas­ing praise. For as the only sovereign God and Master, he rose on the third day.

Kontakion of the Plagial of the First Tone

You descended into Hades, my Savior, and shattered its gates, for you are almighty. As Creator, you raised the dead and destroyed the sting of death. You delivered Adam from the curse, O loving one. Therefore, all cry out to you: Lord, save us.

The Oikos

Having heard the words of the angel, the women were overjoyed and stopped their la­ment and trembling, they witnessed the resur­rection. And behold, Christ approached them, saying: Rejoice. Take courage, for I have con­quered the world and have saved the captives. Hasten and announce to the disciples that I go before them into Galilee to announce the news. Therefore, we cry out to you, O Lord, save us.

Kontakion of the Plagial of the Second Tone

The life‑giver, Christ our God, raised the dead from the valley of death with his life‑giving hand, awarding resurrection to all. For he is the Savior, the resurrection, and the life and the God of all.

The Oikos

We the faithful praise and worship your cross and tomb, O giver of life, for you have chained Hades, O immortal one, and as the almighty God, you have raised the dead with you and have shattered the gates of Hades and destroyed the power of death. Therefore, we praise you with love; you who arose and demolished the power of the deadly enemy. You have raised all who believe in you and delivered the world from the arrows of the serpent, and freed us from the errors of the enemy, O mighty One. Therefore, in faith we praise your resurrection by which you saved us as God of all.

Kontakion of the Grave Tone

The power of death no longer rules over us, for Christ has come destroying and crushing its power. Hades is bound and the prophets together proclaim: The Savior has appeared saying to the faithful: Come forth to the resurrection.

The Oikos

Today, the underworld, Hades, and death tremble before One of the Trinity. The earth quakes and the gates of Hades, seeing you, are seized with fear. All creation, together with the prophets, rejoices and sings a hymn of victory to our God and Savior who trampled the power of death. Let us cry out and shout to Adam and those of Adam: This tree leads to paradise. Come, faithful, to the resurrection.

Kontakion of the Plagial of the Fourth Tone

Rising from the tomb, you raised the dead and resurrected Adam. Eve rejoices in your resur­rection and the ends of the earth rejoice in your rising from the dead, O merciful one.

The Oikos

You despoiled the kingdom of Hades, compas­sionate One, raised the dead, went before the myrrh‑bearers, brought them joy instead of sor­row, and showed the signs of victory to your apostles, my Savior and source of life. You enlightened all creation, O loving God. There­fore, the world rejoices at your rising from the dead, O merciful One.

(Then the Synaxarion of the day of the Month is said.)

Katavasiai*

First Ode. Fourth Tone

I shall open my mouth and it shall be filled with the Spirit; and I shall pour out a word to the Queen and Mother; and I shall be seen cheerfully celebrating; and rejoicing, I shall sing of her miracles.

Third Ode

O Theotokos, living and abundant fountain, strengthen those united in spiritual fellowship who sing hymns of praise to you. And in your divine glory, grant them wreaths of glory.

Fourth Ode

Comprehending the unfathomable divine will of your incarnation by the Virgin, O Most High, the prophet Abbakum cried out: Glory to your power O Lord.

Fifth Ode

Amazed was the universe by your divine glory. For while never experiencing marriage, you held, O Virgin, the God of all in your womb, and gave birth to an eternal Son who rewards with salvation all who chant hymns of praise to you.

Sixth Ode

O godly‑minded people, as we perform this divine and all‑honorable feast in honor of the mother of our God, let us clap our hands and give glory to God who was born of her.

Seventh Ode

The godly‑minded did not adore creation but bravely trampling upon the threat of the fire, they rejoiced chanting: Blessed are You, O supremely praised, O Lord and God of our fathers.

Eighth Ode

We hymn, we bless, and we worship the Lord.

The pious children within the furnace were rescued by the child of the Theotokos. He who was prefigured then has been born on earth, and is gathering the entire universe to sing: Bless the Lord, all his works, and magnify him to the ages.

(After singing the eighth Ode, the Priest proclaims within the sanctuary:)

 

Priest: Let us pray to the Lord.

People:Lord, have mercy.

Priest: For you are holy, our God, who rest among the Saints, and to you we give glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages.

People:Amen. Let everything