How to Use this Book
Preface
The Six Psalms
Resurrection Apolytikia and Theotokia
Kathismata
Evlogetaria
Hypakoai
Oikoi - Kontakia
Katavasiai
Eothina - Morning Gospels
Megalynaria
Resurrection Exaposteilaria and Theotokia
Ainoi
Morning Doxastika
Doxology
About this Book/About the Translator
How To Use This Page
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 names 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 eagles. 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 he 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 he 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 names 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 Gabriels 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.
Plagal 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.
Plagal 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.
Plagal 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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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.
Plagal 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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
Theotokion
O birth‑giver of God, O bride who has not tried marriage, you who changed Eves 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.
Plagal 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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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.
Plagal 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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 Fathers radiance.
Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
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 and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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
Plagal 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, O Lord.
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
First Tone
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
By the Holy Spirit comes the wealth of divine knowledge and wisdom, for the Word reveals all of his fathers teachings.
Prokeimenon
Arise, O God, help us and redeem us for your names sake (3).
Verse: O God, we have heard with our own ears.
Plagal 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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 which consumes every evil mind.
Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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.
Plagal 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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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.
Plagal 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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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 to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
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.
The Oikoi
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 Plagal 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 Plagal 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 Plagal 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 that has breath praise the Lord (3).
Priest: Let us pray to the Lord, our God that we may be made worthy to hear the holy Gospel.
People: Lord, have mercy (3).
Priest: Wisdom. Arise. Let us hear the holy Gospel. Peace be to you all.
People: And with your spirit.
Priest: The reading is from the holy Gospel according to (Name). Let us be attentive.
People: Glory to you, O Lord, glory to you.
(The Priest reads the Morning Gospel of that Sunday.)
Morning Gospels
1. Matthew (28:16‑20)
At that time, the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.
2. Mark (16:1‑8)
And when the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. And very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they were saying to one another, Who will roll away the stone for us from the door of the tomb? and looking up, they saw that the stone was rolled back‑it was very large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe; and they were amazed. And he said to them, Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, he is not here; see the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him, as he told you. And they went out and fled from the tomb; for trembling and astonishment had come upon them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.
3. Mark (16:9‑20)
Now when Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons. She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it. After this he appeared to the eleven themselves as they sat at table and he upbraided them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen. And he said to them, Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover. So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by the signs that attended it. Amen.
4. Luke (24:1‑12)
On the first day of the week at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking spices which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel; and as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and on the third day rise. And they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told this to the apostles; but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home wondering at what had happened.
5. Luke (24:12‑35)
At that time, Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home wondering at what had happened. That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk? And they stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days? And he said to them, What things? And they said to him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since this happened. Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find his body; and they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb, and found it just as the women had said; but him they did not see. And he said to them, O foolish men, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was not it necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into this glory? And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He appeared to be going further, but they constrained him, saying, Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent. So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they recognized him; and he vanished out of their sight. They said to each other. Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the scriptures? And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven gathered together and those who were with them, who said, The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon! Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.
6. Luke (24:36‑53)
At that time, Jesus went up and stood among his disciples and said to them, Peace be with you. But they were startled and supposed that they saw a spirit. And he said to them, Why are you troubled, and why do questionings rise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit, has not flesh and bones as you see that I have. And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. And while they still disbelieved for joy, and wondered, he said to them, Have you anything here to eat? They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate before them. Then he said to them, These are my words which I spoke to you, while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and the psalms must be fulfilled. Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, and said to them, Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in his name in all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but stay in the city, until you are clothed with power from on high. Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. While he blessed them, he parted from them, and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God.
7. John (20:1‑20)
On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him. Peter then came out with the other disciple, and they went toward the tomb. They both ran, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first; and stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; he saw the linen cloths lying, and the napkin, which had been on his head, not lying with the linen cloths but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not know the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples went back to their homes.
8. John (20:11‑18)
At that time, Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb, and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, Woman, why are you weeping? She said to them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him. Saying this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, Woman, why are you weeping? Whom do you seek? Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away. Jesus said to her, Mary. She turned and said to him in Hebrew, Rabboni; (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, Do not touch me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God. Mary Magdalene went and said to the disciples, I have seen the Lord; and she told them that he had said these things to her.
9. John (20:19‑31)
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, Peace be with you. When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them , and said to them, Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained. Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, We have seen the Lord. But he said to them, Unless I see in his hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in his side, I will not believe. Eight days later, his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them, and said, Peace be with you. Then he said to Thomas, Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing. Thomas answered him, My Lord and my God! Jesus said to him, Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name.
10. John (21:1‑4)
At that time, Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberius; and he revealed himself in this way. Simon Peter Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, I am going fishing. They said to him, We will go with you. They went out and got into the boat; but that night they caught nothing. Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the beach; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, Children, have you any fish? They answered him, No. He said to them, Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some. So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, for the quantity of fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, It is the Lord! When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his clothes, for he was stripped for work, and sprang into the sea. But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off. When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire there with fish lying on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, Bring some of the fish that you have just caught. So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty‑three of them; and although there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, Come and have breakfast. Now none of the disciples dared ask him, Who are you? They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.
11. John (21:15‑25)
At that time, when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these? He said to him, Yes, Lord; you know that I love you. He said to him, Feed my lambs. A second time he said to him, Simon, son of John, do you love me? He said to him, Yes, Lord; you know that I love you. He said to him, Tend my sheep. He said to him the third time, Simon, son of John, do you love me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Do you love me? And he said to him, Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you. Jesus said to him, Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself and walked where you would; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go. (This he said to show by what death he was to glorify God.) And after this he said to him, Follow me. Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, Lord, who is it that is going to betray you? When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, Lord, what about this man? Jesus said to him, If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me! The saying spread abroad among the brethren that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? This is the disciple who is bearing witness to these things, and who has written these things; and we know that his testimony is true. But there are also many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the book that would be written. Amen.
People: Glory to you, O Lord, glory to you.
(The Priest or People say the following prayer)
Having beheld the resurrection of Christ, let us worship the holy Lord Jesus, the only Sinless One. We venerate your cross, O Christ, and we praise and glorify your holy resurrection. You are our God. We know no other than you, and we call upon your name. Come, all you faithful, let us venerate the holy resurrection of Christ. For behold, through the cross joy has come to all the world. Ever praising the Lord, let us praise his resurrection. For enduring the cross for us, He has destroyed death by death.
(Then the 50th Psalm is sung. At the verse: For behold, you have loved truth, the priest, holding the holy Gospel Book, exits through the Royal Doors and, standing in the middle of the Solea, offers the Gospel Book to the people for reverencing. After all have reverenced it, he places the Gospel Book on the lectern, reverences and enters the sanctuary through the Holy Doors.)
People: Have mercy upon me, O God, according to your great mercy; and according to the multitude of your compassion, blot out my transgression.
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
For I acknowledge my iniquity, and my sin is ever before me.
Against you, you only, have I sinned, and done evil in your sight, that you may be found just when you speak, and victorious when you are judged.
Indeed, I was born guilty, a sinner when my mother conceived me.
For behold, you have loved truth; you have made known to me the secret and hidden things of your wisdom.
You shall sprinkle me with hyssop, and I shall be made clean; you shall wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Make me to hear joy and gladness, that the afflicted bones may rejoice.
Turn your face away from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and establish me with your governing Spirit.
I shall teach transgressors your ways, and the ungodly shall turn back to you.
Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, the God of my salvation, my tongue shall joyfully declare your righteousness.
Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.
For if you had desired sacrifice, I would give it; you do not delight in whole burnt offerings.
A sacrifice to God is a broken spirit; God will not despise a broken and humbled heart.
Do good in your good pleasure to Sion; and let the walls of Jerusalem be built.
Then you shall be pleased with a sacrifice of righteousness, with oblation and whole burnt offerings.
Then you shall offer bulls on your altar.
And have mercy on me, O God.
(Then we sing in the Second Tone)
Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Through the intercessions of the apostles, O merciful One, remit the multitude of our sins.
Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
Through the intercessions of the Theotokos, O merciful One, remit the multitude of our sins.
Have mercy, O God, have mercy upon me, according to your great mercy and according to the multitude of your compassions, wipe out my offense.
Jesus is risen from the grave as he foretold; he has given us eternal life and abundant mercy.
(On the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee, and throughout Great Lent, we substitute for the above the following troparia: Open to me the doors of repentance Guide me to salvation, and The multitude of my misfortunes. . .)
Priest: O God, save your people and bless your inheritance. Look upon your world with mercy and compassion. Raise the Orthodox Christians in glory, and send down upon us your rich mercies, through the intercessions of our most pure Lady the Theotokos and ever‑Virgin Mary; the power of the precious and life‑giving Cross; the protection of the honorable, bodiless Powers of heaven; the supplications of the honorable and glorious prophet, and forerunner John the Baptist; the holy, glorious, and praiseworthy Apostles; our Fathers among the Saints, the great hierarchs and ecumenical teachers, Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian and John Chrysostom, Athanasios, Cyril, and John the Merciful, patriarchs of Alexandria; Nicholas, bishop of Myra, Spyridon, bishop of Trimythous, the wonder workers; the holy, glorious great Martyrs George the Victorious, Demetrios the Myrobletes, Theodore the Teron, and Theodore the General, Menas the Wonderworker and Charalambos the Hieromartyr; the holy, glorious, and victorious martyrs; the glorious great Martyr and all‑laudable Euphemia; of our holy God‑bearing Fathers (the patron saint of the church); the holy and righteous ancestors of righteous ancestors of God Joachim and Anna (the saint of the day); and of all your Saints; we beseech you, only merciful Lord, hear us sinners who pray to you and have mercy on us.
People: Lord, have mercy (12 by 3s).
Priest: Through the mercy, compassion, and love of mankind of your only begotten Son, with whom you are blessed, together with your all holy, good and life‑giving Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages.
People: Amen.
Megalynaria
Priest: Let us honor and magnify in song the Theotokos and the Mother of light.
(Receiving the censer, he censes the holy Table, the sanctuary, and the entire church, while simultaneously, the More honorable than the Cherubim is sung.)
My soul does magnify the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my savior.
More honorable than the Cherubim, and beyond compare more glorious than the Seraphim, incorruptibly you gave birth to God the Word. We magnify you, the true Theotokos.
For he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
More honorable than the Cherubim, and beyond compare more glorious than the Seraphim, incorruptibly you gave birth to God the Word. We magnify you, the true Theotokos.
For he who is mighty has done to me great things; and holy is his name; and his mercy is on them who fear him from generation to generation.
More honorable than the Cherubim, and beyond compare more glorious than the Seraphim, incorruptibly you gave birth to God the Word. We magnify you, the true Theotokos.
He has showed strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
More honorable than the Cherubim, and beyond compare more glorious than the Seraphim, incorruptibly you gave birth to God the Word. We magnify you, the true Theotokos.
He has put down the mighty from their seats and exalted them of low degree; he has filled the hungry with good things and the rich he has sent empty away.
More honorable than the Cherubim, and beyond compare more glorious than the Seraphim, incorruptibly you gave birth to God the Word. We magnify you, the true Theotokos.
He has helped his servant Israel in remembrance of his mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever.
More honorable than the Cherubim, and beyond compare more glorious than the Seraphim, incorruptibly you gave birth to God the Word. We magnify you, the true Theotokos.
(Then the katavasia of the ninth Ode is sung.)
Ninth Ode
Let every mortal born on earth carry his torch and leap for joy in the spirit. Let the angelic powers celebrate and honor the holy wonder of the Mother of God. Let them cry out: Rejoice, all‑blessed Theotokos, pure and ever‑virgin.
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, glorious Lady, the Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us commit ourselves and one another, and all our lives to Christ our God.
People: To You, O Lord.
Priest: For all the powers of heaven praise you and give you glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages.
People: Amen. Holy is our Lord our God (2).
Exalt the Lord our God and worship at his footstool, for he is holy.
(Immediately the resurrection exaposteilarion and that of the saint, if there is one, or the Theotokion are sung.)
Resurrection Exaposteilaria
And Theotokia
1
Let us go up with the disciples into a mountain of Galilee to behold with faith Christ as he proclaims his power over things above and below. Let us learn how he teaches us to baptize all nations in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, and how we may be initiated in his mysteries as he promised, until the end of the world.
You, O Virgin Theotokos, have rejoiced with the disciples at seeing Christ risen on the third day from the tomb as he said. And he has appeared to them teaching and disclosing the better things, commanding them to baptize in the Father, and the Son, and the Spirit, that we may believe in his rising and glorify you, O Maiden.
2
The myrrh‑bearing women rejoiced at beholding the stone rolled away. They saw a young man seated upon the tomb and he said to them: Tell the disciples with Peter that Christ is risen. Press forward into the mountain of Galilee; there he will appear to you as he said to his friends.
An angel brought the Virgin the salutation before her conception of you, O Christ. An angel rolled away the stone of your tomb. The former, instead of sorrow, brought tokens of ineffable joy, and the latter, instead of death, proclaimed and magnified you, the bestower of life, declaring the resurrection to the women and those initiated.
3
Let no one doubt that Christ is risen, for he appeared to Mary and then was seen by those wailing in the country. Again he appeared to the eleven initiates as they reclined, and sent them forth to baptize others. He then ascended to heaven from whence he descended, confirming their preaching with a multitude of signs.
O sun, having risen upon the tomb today as a bridegroom from the bridal chamber, having harrowed hell and dashed down death, by the intercession of her that bore you, you have sent us light‑light that has enlightened our hearts and souls, and has directed us all to walk in the paths of your commandments and the ways of peace.
4
Lightening‑bright with virtues, let us behold men standing at the life‑bearing tomb in brilliant garments while the women bearing myrrh bow down their faces to the earth. Let us learn of the rising of him who reigns over heaven and let us hasten with Peter to life in the tomb; marveling at that which has happened let us stay to behold Christ.
Proclaiming the salutation: Rejoice, O Lord, you have transformed the sorrow of our forefathers, bringing to the world the joy of your resurrection. O giver of life, through her who bore you, enlighten our hearts and send forth the light of your mercies, that we may cry out to you: glory to your resurrection, O loving God-man.
5
Christ, the life and the way, risen from the dead, accompanied Cleopas and Luke and became known at Emmaus at the breaking of bread. Their souls and hearts burned with ardor when he spoke to them on the way and interpreted what he had endured by the Scriptures. Let us cry with them: He is risen and has appeared to Peter.
I praise your immeasurable mercy, O my Creator. You have emptied yourself to bear and save human nature grown evil. And being God, you consented to be born of the pure Maiden, descended of God like me, and descended even into Hades, wishing to save me by the intercession of her that bore you, O all‑merciful Master.
6
Revealing your human nature, O Savior, you partook of food after you rose from the tomb and standing in the midst preached repentance. Then you ascended immediately to your heavenly Father and promised to send the Comforter to your disciples. O most divine God-man, glory to your resurrection.
The creator of creation and God of all, O all‑holy Virgin has taken mortal flesh from your undefiled blood. He has renewed all corrupt nature, leaving it after his birth as it was before birth. Therefore, we all faithfully praise you crying: Rejoice, mistress of the world.
7
When Mary said that they had taken the Lord away, Simon Peter and the other disciple of Christ whom he loved both ran to the tomb. They found the grave clothes lying alone therein and the kerchief that had been about his head not with them but aside. They therefore kept silent again until they saw Christ.
Things great and exceeding strange have you done for me, O most merciful Christ. Unexplainably have you been born of a virgin Maiden and accepted the cross and endured death. You have risen in glory to set our nature free from death. Glory to your glory, O Christ, glory to your strength.
8
Seeing two angels inside the tomb, Mary was struck with wonder and not recognizing Christ, she asked him supposing him to be the gardener: Where, O Lord, have you laid the body of my Jesus? But recognizing by his call that he was the Savior, she heard: Touch me not; tell the brethren I go to my Father.
Maiden ineffably you have borne one of the Trinity, dual by nature, dual in operation, and one in person. Entreat him, then, for us who venerate you with faith that we may be delivered from all assaults by the enemy, for we all now take refuge in you, O Lady Theotokos.
9
The doors were shut as you entered, O Master, and you filled the apostles with the Holy Spirit by breathing upon them. You told them to bind and loose sins. After eight days you showed Thomas your side and your hands. With him we cry: You are Lord and God.
As you beheld on the third day O bride of God, your own Son risen from the tomb, you set aside all the affliction which you, all‑holy Virgin, endured as a mother on beholding him suffering. You were filled with joy, glorifying and praising him with his disciples. Therefore save us who now proclaim you the Mother of God.
10
On the sea of Tiberius, the sons of Zebedee, Nathaniel and Peter, and two other disciples of old were fishing with Thomas. At Christs command they cast their nets on the right side and drew in a multitude of fish. Then Peter recognized him and cast himself after him. When he appeared to them a third time, he showed them bread and fish upon live coals.
O Virgin, entreat the Lord, risen from the tomb on the third day, on behalf of those who praise you and bless you with love. For we all flee to you as a refuge of salvation and a mediator before him. We have indeed become your portion and your suppliants, O Theotokos, and we all look to you for help.
11
After the divine resurrection, the Lord asked Peter thrice: Do you love me? and thus put him forward as shepherd of his flock. But when Peter saw that he whom Jesus loved was following, he asked the Master: Why is he here? And he said, If I wish that he should remain until I come again, what is this to you, beloved Peter?
O fearful mystery! O strange and glorious wonder! Through death is death utterly destroyed. Who then does not praise, who then does not venerate your resurrection, O Word, and the Theotokos who in purity has given birth to you in the flesh? By her intercessions, deliver us all from hell.
(And immediately the Ainoi are sung.)
Ainoi
People: Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise him in the heights. To you, O God, is due praise.
Let all his angels praise him; let all his hosts praise him. To you, O God, is due praise.
(Then the resurrection stichera and those of the saints (if there are any) are sung, the number depending on local tradition.)
First Tone
To execute upon them a written judgment, this honor have all his saints.
We praise your saving passion, O Christ, and glorify your resurrection.
Praise God in his saints; praise him in the firmament of his power.
Give peace in our lives, O Lord, who endured the Cross and destroyed death and rose from the dead as almighty.
Praise him for his mighty acts; praise him according to his abundant greatness.
Grant that we may praise and glorify you with a pure heart, O Christ, who has despoiled death, and raised up man through your resurrection.
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet; praise him with psalter and harp.
Glorifying your divine humility, we praise you, O Christ. Born of a virgin, yet you were not separated from the Father. You suffered as man and willingly endured the cross. Glory to you, O Lord, who, proceeding as from a chamber, have risen from the tomb to save the world.
Praise him with the timbrel and chorus; praise him with the stringed instruments and organ.
When you were nailed upon the wood of the cross, the power of the enemy was put to death; creation quaked with fear of you and hell was despoiled by your power. Glory to you, O Christ our God, who raised up the dead from the tomb and opened paradise to the thief.
Praise him upon melodious cymbals; praise him with loud cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
The holy women lamenting hastened to your sepulcher. They found the tomb open and learned from the angel the new and strange miracle. They announced to the apostles that the Lord had risen, bestowing great mercy upon the world.
Arise, O Lord my God, lift up your hand; forget not your poor forever.
We worship the divine wounds of your passion, O Christ our God, and the royal sacrifice in Zion, divinely manifested at the end of the ages. You, O Son of righteousness, have enlightened those asleep in darkness guiding them towards the light that knows no evening. Glory to you, O Lord.
I shall praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I shall speak of all your marvelous works.
Give ear, O turbulent race of Jews; where are those who went to Pilate? Let the soldiers of the watch tell: Where are the seals of the tomb? Where has the buried corpse been moved? How was he sold who is not for sale? How was the treasure stolen? You wicked Jews, why do you speak falsely against the resurrection of him who was crucified? He is risen who was free among the dead, granting great mercy to the world.
Second Tone
To execute upon them a written judgment: this honor have all his saints.
All that breathes and all creation praises you, O Lord. For you alone love mankind, and have put down death with your cross that you may show mankind your resurrection.
Praise God in his saints; praise him in the firmament of his power.
Let the Jews tell how the soldiers lost the King over whom they watched. Why did the stone fail to guard the rock of life? Let them either give him over who was buried or else let them worship him who arose, declaring with us: Glory to the multitude of your mercies; glory to you, our Savior.
Praise him for his mighty acts; praise him according to his excellent greatness.
Rejoice, O people, and be glad. An angel sat upon the stone of the tomb and gave us the great news: Christ, the Savior of the world is risen from the dead and has filled the world with a sweet fragrance. Rejoice, O men, and be glad.
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet; praise him with the psaltery and harp.
At your conception, O Lord, an angel brought the joyful salutation to the Virgin who is full of grace, while at your resurrection an angel rolled back the stone of your glorious tomb. The one, disclosed tokens of joy instead of sorrow; while the other, proclaimed to us the Master, the giver of life instead of death. Therefore we cry: Glory to you, O Lord, Benefactor of all.
Praise him with the timbrel and dance; praise him with the stringed instruments and organ.
Weeping, the women poured myrrh upon your tomb, and their voices were filled with joy as they said: The Lord is risen.
Praise him upon the well‑tuned cymbals; praise him upon the loud cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
Let the Gentiles and the people praise Christ our God who for our sake willingly suffered the cross and spent three days in hell. Let them worship his resurrection from the dead, which spreads light to the ends of the world.
Praise, O Lord my God, lift up your hand; forget not your poor for ever.
Crucified and buried of your own will, you despoiled death, O Christ, and as God and Master, you granted the world eternal life and great mercy.
I will praise you, Lord, with my whole heart. I will speak of all your marvelous works.
In truth, you transgressors of the law, by sealing the stone, granted us a greater wonder. The guards knew. Today he went forth from the tomb and they said: Say: while we slept his disciples came and stole him away. But who steals a body, especially a body that is naked? He arose by his own will as God, leaving his grave clothes in the tomb. Come, you Jews, and see how he left the seals unbroken, having trampled death and granted mankind life without end and great mercy.
Third Tone
To execute upon them a written judgment: this honor have all his saints.
O come all you nations, and know the might of this awesome mystery. Our Savior, who was the Word in the beginning, has been crucified for us and of his own will suffered burial. On the third day he rose again that he might save us all. Let us worship him.
Praise him in his saints. Praise him in the firmament of his power.
The guards that kept watch over you, O Lord, related all the wonders that had come to pass. But the vain assembly of the Sanhedrin filled their hands with bribes, thus thinking to hide your resurrection which all the world glorifies. Have mercy upon us.
Praise him for his mighty acts; praise him according to his excellent greatness.
All things were filled with joy when news of your resurrection was received. When Mary Magdalene went to your tomb, she found an angel in shining raiment seated upon the stone who said: Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but risen as he foretold, and he goes before you into Galilee.
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet; praise him with psaltery and harp.
O Master who loves humankind, in your light we see light. You have risen from the dead, bestowing salvation on the human race so that all creation might give glory to you who alone are without sin. Have mercy upon us.
Praise him with the timbrel and dance; praise him with stringed instruments and organ.
The myrrh‑bearing women, O Lord, offered their tearful song to you very early, for they came to your tomb laden with fragrant spices and hastened to anoint your immaculate body. An angel seated upon the stone announced to them: Why do you seek the living among the dead? For he is risen as God and has trampled down death, granting to all great mercy.
Praise him upon the well‑tuned cymbals. Praise him upon the loud cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
A shining angel was seated upon your life-giving tomb, and said to the myrrh bearers: The Deliverer has emptied the tombs, despoiled Hades, and is risen on the third day, for he alone is God and almighty.
Arise, O Lord, my God, lift up your hand; forget not your poor ones forever.
On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene at the tomb arrived in search of you. But when she found you not, she wept and cried out: Woe is me, my Savior! Where have they stolen the King of all? Two angels, bearers of life, were in the tomb, and said to her: Woman, why do you weep? I weep, she said, because they have taken my Lord from the tomb and I know not where they have laid him. Then she turned round and saw you standing and she immediately cried: My Lord and my God, glory to you.
I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will speak of all your marvelous works.
The Jews enclosed Life in the tomb while the thief with his tongue opened the door to joy to the nations, as he called out and said: he who was crucified with me and was hung with me upon the cross for my sake has appeared to me seated upon the throne with the Father, for he is Christ our God who has great mercy.
Fourth Tone
To execute upon them a written judgment: this honor have all the saints.
We glory in your resurrection, O all powerful Lord, who suffered the cross and death and arose from the dead.
Praise God in his saints; praise him in the firmament of his power.
By your cross you set us free from the ancient curse, O Lord; by your death you have destroyed the devil who ruled over our nature; by your resurrection you have filled all things with joy. Therefore, we cry to you: O Lord, who rose from the dead, glory to you.
Praise him for his might acts; praise him according to his excellent greatness.
By your cross lead us in your truth, O Christ our Savior, and deliver us from the wiles of the adversary. Having risen from the dead, raise us up who have fallen by sin. By the prayers of your saints, O loving Lord, stretch out to us your arm.
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet; praise him with psaltery and harp.
Without parting from the bosom of the Father, O only‑begotten Son of God, you have in your love for mankind descended to earth and become man without change. Impassible in your divinity, you suffered the cross and death in the flesh. You have risen from the dead and granted mankind immortality as the only almighty one.
Praise him with the timbrel and dance; praise him with the stringed instruments and organ.
You have accepted upon yourself death in the flesh and have mediated that we might be immortal. You have dwelt in the tomb that we might be free from Hades, and, suffering as man, you have risen as God, having raised us with yourself. Therefore, we cry to you: O Lord, giver of life, only‑loving God, glory to you.
Praise him upon well‑tuned cymbals; praise him upon loud cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
The stones were split open when your cross was planted on Golgotha, O Savior, and the gatekeepers of hells were afraid when you were laid in the tomb as dead. For you have destroyed the power of death by your resurrection, and have granted all the dead incorruption, O Savior. Glory to you, Lord and Giver of life.
Arise, O Lord, my God, lift up your hand; forget not your poor forever.
The women wished to behold your resurrection, O Christ our God, and Mary Magdalene went before them and found the stone rolled back from the tomb and an angel sitting there who said: Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is risen as God, in order to save the world.
I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart: I will speak of all your marvelous works.
Where is Jesus whom you thought you were guarding? Tell me, O Jews, where is he who was laid in the tomb which you sealed with a stone? Give us the body, you who denied life. Yield up the body, or believe in him who is risen. If you keep silent about his rising, the stones will cry aloud especially the one rolled back from the tomb. How great is your mercy, and great is the mystery of your dispensation. O Savior, glory to You.
Plagal of the First Tone
To execute upon them a written judgment: this honor have all his saints.
After the tomb was sealed by the transgressors, You, O Lord, came forth from it just as you came forth from the Virgin. Your bodiless angels had no knowledge of the manner of your incarnation; neither were the soldiers who guarded you aware of the moment of your resurrection. For both miracles were concealed from those who questioned these things, but were revealed as miracles to those who worship with faith the mystery. Grant us, who praise it, joy and great mercy.
Praise him in his saints. Praise him in the firmament of his power.
After breaking the eternal chains and bursting the bonds asunder, you rose, O Lord, from the tomb, leaving your grave clothes behind as witness to the truth of your three-day burial. And you who were being guarded in the tomb went forward into Galilee. Great is your mercy, O incomprehensible Savior. Have mercy on us.
Praise him for his might acts; praise him according to his excellent greatness.
The women hastened to the tomb, to see you, O Lord, the Christ who suffered for us. When they arrived they found an angel seated upon the stone who cried out to them as they started back with dread: The Lord is risen. Tell the disciples that the Savior of our souls is risen from the dead.
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet; praise him with psaltery and harp.
As you came forth from the sealed tomb, O Lord, so did you enter with the doors closed and stand in the midst of your disciples showing them the marks of your passion, O long‑suffering Savior. Born of the seed of David, you endured the wounds and as Son of God you have set the world free. Great is your mercy, O ineffable Lord. Have mercy upon us.
Praise him with the timbrel and dance; praise him with the stringed instruments and organ.
O Lord, king of the ages and creator of all, you accepted crucifixion and burial for our sake to free us all from Hades. You are our God, and we know no other but you.
Praise him upon the well‑tuned cymbals; praise him upon the loud cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
Who shall declare your dazzling wonders, O Lord? Who shall proclaim your awesome mysteries? For you became incarnate for our sake as you desired and have made manifest the height of your power. By your cross you opened Paradise to the thief; by your tomb, you smashed the chains of Hades; and by your resurrection, you enriched all things. Glory to you, O compassionate Lord.
Arise, O Lord my God, lift up your hand; forget not your poor forever.
Very early in the morning the myrrh-bearing women hastened to your tomb in order to anoint you, the immortal Word and God. And when the words of the angel reached their ears, they returned rejoicing to make known to the apostles that the life of all had risen, granting the world forgiveness and great mercy.
I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will speak of all your marvelous works.
The guards of your divine tomb came to the Jews and said: How foolish was your counsel, for you tried in vain to guard him whom nothing can confine. You desired to hire the resurrection of the one who was crucified, but in so doing you revealed it clearly to all. How foolish is your assembly! Do you again take counsel to conceal that which cannot be concealed? Listen rather to us and be prepared to believe the truth of the events. An angel with lighting in his hand came down from heaven and rolled back the stone, as we lay dead with fear, and he called to the myrrh‑bearing women, who were undismayed, and he said to them: Do you not see the guards lying dead with fear, and the seal broken and Hades emptied? Why do you seek among the dead the victor over hell and the destroyer of the sting of death? Go quickly and proclaim fearlessly to the apostles: Truly the Lord is risen, the one who has great mercy.
Plagal of the Second Tone
To execute upon them a written judgment: this honor have all his saints.
Your cross, O Lord, is the life and resurrection for your people; and assured of this, we sing to you our risen God: Have mercy upon us.
Praise him in his saints. Praise him in the firmament of his power.
Your burial, O Master, opened paradise to the human race, and we, delivered from corruption, sing to you our risen God: Have mercy upon us.
Praise him for his might acts; praise him according to his excellent greatness.
Let us praise Christ with the Father and the Spirit. Let us cry aloud to him from the dead: You are our life and resurrection. Have mercy upon us.
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet; praise him with psaltery and harp.
On the third day, O Christ, you rose from the tomb as it was written, having raised our forefather with you. Therefore all people glorify you and praise your resurrection.
Praise him with the timbrel and dance; praise him with the stringed instruments and organ.
O Lord, great and awesome is the mystery of your resurrection. For you have come forth from the tomb as a bridegroom from his chamber, destroying death by death that Adam might be set free. Therefore, the angels in heaven rejoice and people on earth glorify the compassion that you have shown towards us, O loving God.
Praise him upon well‑tuned cymbals; praise him upon loud cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
O wicked Jews, where are the seals and the pieces of silver that you gave to the guards? The treasure was not stolen, but rose up according to his power. You were put to shame by denying Christ, the Lord of glory, who suffered and was buried and rose from the dead. Him let us worship.
Arise, O Lord my God, lift up your hand; forget not your poor forever.
How were you robbed, O Jews, when the tomb was sealed and you had placed the guards and seals on it? Though the doors were closed, the king came out. Now either show him as dead or worship him with us as God and say: Glory to your cross and resurrection.
I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will speak of all your marvelous works.
The myrrh‑bearing women came in tears to your life‑bearing tomb, O Lord, and carried with them spices with which to anoint your all pure body. But they found an angel seated on the stone who called out to them and said; Why do you weep for him from whose side flows life to the world? Why do you seek him who is immortal as dead in the tomb? Go rather and announce to his disciples the good tidings of his resurrection, the joy of all the world. Having also enlightened us by it, O Savior, grant us forgiveness and great mercy.
Grave Tone
To execute upon them a written judgment: this honor have all his saints.
Christ is risen from the dead, bursting asunder the bonds of death. Proclaim this great joy over all the earth; let the heavens praise the glory of God.
Praise him in his saints; praise him in the firmament of his power.
Having beheld the resurrection of Christ, let us worship the holy Lord Jesus who alone is without sin.
Praise him for his might acts; praise him according to his excellent greatness.
Let us never cease to worship the resurrection of Christ, for he has saved us from our transgressions. Holy is the Lord Jesus who showed forth the resurrection.
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet; praise him with psaltery and harp.
What shall we give to the Lord in return for all that he has given us? For our sake, God lived among us. On account of our corrupt nature the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. He became the benefactor of the ungrateful, the liberator of those in captivity. He is the sun of righteousness for those sitting in darkness. He who is impassible is on the cross. He is the light in Hades. He is life in death. He is the resurrection of the fallen, and we cry to him: Glory to you, our God.
Praise him with the timbrel and dance; praise him with the stringed instruments and organ.
O Lord, by your mighty power, you have smashed the gates of Hades and brought down the dominion of death. As master of the world and almighty God, you have raised up the dead lying from eternity in darkness by your divine and glorious resurrection.
Praise him upon well‑tuned cymbals; praise him upon loud cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
Come let us rejoice in the Lord, and make glad in his resurrection, for he has raised up the dead from the unbreakable bonds of Hades, granting the world, as God, eternal life and great mercy.
Arise, O Lord my God, lift up your hand; forget not your poor forever.
An angel, shining like lightening, sat upon the stone of the life‑giving tomb, and announced the good tidings to the myrrh‑bearers saying: The Lord is risen as he foretold to you. Announce to his disciples that he goes before you into Galilee, and that he grants the world eternal life and great mercy.
I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will speak of all your marvelous works.
O unfaithful Jews! Why have you rejected the Cornerstone? He is the stone that God laid in Zion. He is the one who made water gush out of the rock in the wilderness, and who pours forth from his side immortality to us. He is the stone that was cut from the virginal mountain without the will of man. He, as Daniel said, is the Son of man coming upon the clouds of heaven going towards the Ancient of Days and his kingdom is everlasting.
Plagal of the Fourth Tone
To execute upon them a written judgment: this honor have all the saints.
Though you, O Lord, stood for trial to be judged by Pilate, you did not cease to sit on the throne with the Father. Rising from the dead, you have set the world free from bondage to the enemy, for you are a compassionate and loving God.
Praise him in his saints. Praise him in the firmament of his power.
Though the Jews laid you in the tomb as dead, O Lord, the guards watched over you as a sleeping king; and though sealed with seals as a treasure of life, you have risen and granted our souls incorruption.
Praise him for his mighty acts; praise him according to his excellent greatness.
You gave us your cross, Lord, as a weapon against the devil. Surely he trembles and quakes unable to bear the sight of its power; for it raised up the dead and laid death low. Therefore, we venerate your tomb and your resurrection.
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet; praise him with psaltery and harp.
Your angel, O Lord, proclaimed the resurrection and frightened the guards, and he called to the women saying: Why do you seek the living among the dead? God is risen, bestowing life upon the world.
Praise him with the timbrel and dance; praise him with the stringed instruments and organ.
Impassible in your divinity, you have suffered on the cross and have accepted burial for three days to set us free from the bondage of the enemy and to give us life, making us immortal by your resurrection, O Christ our loving God.
Praise him upon the well‑tuned cymbals; praise him upon the loud cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
We venerate, glorify, and praise your resurrection from the tomb, O Christ, by which you have set us free from the indissoluble bonds of Hades. And as God you have granted eternal life and great mercy to the world.
Arise, O Lord my God, lift up your hand; forget not your poor forever.
The lawless people guarding your life-bearing tomb sealed it with a guard. But you, as God almighty and immortal, have risen on the third day.
I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will speak of all your marvelous works.
When you came to the gates of Hades and smashed them, O Lord, then as a prisoner Hades cried: Who is this who is not condemned to remain in the nethermost parts of the earth but dissolves like a shadow the prison of death? I received him as dead, and now tremble in fear before him as God. Have mercy upon us, Almighty one.
Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
And one of the following;
Morning Doxastika
First Eothinon. First Tone
When the disciples had gone up onto the mountain for his ascension from earth, the Lord stood by and they worshiped him. And, having been instructed in the universal power which was given to them, they were sent to the ends of the earth to proclaim the resurrection from the dead and his return to heaven. He, Christ, God and Savior of our souls, also promised them to be with them forever.
Second Eothinon. Second Tone
When the women came with Mary bearing sweet spices and pondered how to obtain their desire, they saw the stone rolled away and the divine youth who calmed the tumult of their souls. The Lord Jesus is risen, he said. Therefore, proclaim this to his heralds, the disciples and tell them to hasten to Galilee, and they shall see him risen from the dead as the giver of life and Lord.
Third Eothinon. Third Tone
When Mary Magdalene announced the good news of the Saviors resurrection from the dead and his appearance, the disciples did not believe her and were reproached for their hardness of heart. But armed with signs and wonders, they were sent to preach. You, O Lord, were lifted up to the Father, the source of light, while they preached the word in all places supported by miracles. We, therefore, enlightened by them glorify your resurrection from the dead, O loving God.
Fourth Eothinon. Fourth Tone
It was early dawn when the women came to your tomb, O Christ, but the body they desired was not found. Therefore, those in resplendent vesture standing by said to them: Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is risen as he foretold. Why do you not remember his words? Convinced by them, the women proclaimed what they have seen, but their good tidings seemed to be idle tales, so dulled were the disciples still. But Peter ran, and beheld and glorified within himself your wonders.
Fifth Eothinon. Plagal of the First Tone
O Christ, how wise are your judgments. By the grave clothes alone you made Peter understand your resurrection. Accompanying Luke and Cleopas, and while conversing with them you did not reveal yourself immediately. Therefore, you were reproached as a stranger in Jerusalem, not knowing what had taken place there. But disposing everything for the benefit of your creature, you revealed the prophecies concerning you and made yourself known to them by blessing the bread because their hearts were aflame for knowledge of you even before this. To the disciples already assembled they openly proclaimed your resurrection; through it have mercy on our souls.
Sixth Eothinon. Plagal of the Second Tone
You, O Christ, are indeed peace unto all people of God, and after your resurrection you gave your peace to your disciples, frightening them who thought they saw a spirit. But you calmed the tumult of their souls by showing them your hands and feet. Yet they still disbelieved. But you opened their minds to the understanding of the Scriptures. You shared food with them and reminded them of your teachings. Then, having assured them of the promise of the Father and having blessed them you ascended to heaven. Therefore, with them we worship you, O Lord, glory to you.
Seventh Eothinon. Grave Tone
Behold the darkness and early morning. What are you doing at the tomb, Mary, your mind filled with darkness? Why do you ask where Jesus has been laid? See the disciples running forward with the grave clothes and the cloth, giving proof to the resurrection and recalling the Scriptures concerning this. With them and through them we also believe, and we sing praises to you, O Christ, giver of life.
Eighth Eothinon. Plagal of the Fourth Tone
Marys fervent tears were not shed in vain, for she was found worthy to hear the angels teaching and to see your face, O Christ. But her thoughts were earthly ‑ those of a weak woman. Therefore, she was sent away and was told not to touch you, O Christ. But she was sent as a herald to the disciples, and proclaimed to them the good news of your ascension to your paternal inheritance. With her make us also worthy; O Lord our Master.
Ninth Eothinon. Plagal of the First Tone
As in later times, late in the evening of the Sabbath you came and stood by your friends, O Christ. By a miracle, you entered through closed doors and confirmed your resurrection from the dead. You filled your disciples with joy, and imparted to them the Holy Spirit and granted them power to remit sins. Nor did you leave Thomas immersed in a tempest of disbelief. Therefore, compassionate Lord, grant us also true knowledge and remission of our faults.
Tenth Eothinon. Plagal of the Second Tone
After your descent into Hades, the disciples despaired of your resurrection, as might be expected in your absence, O Christ. They returned to their work; to their boats and nets, but they caught nothing. But you, O Savior, have been revealed as Master of all and commanded them to cast their nets on the right side. Immediately the word become deed, and they caught a great multitude of fish and found an unexpected meal on shore, of which they partook. Now make us worthy to enjoy the same food spiritually, O loving Lord.
Eleventh Eothinon. Plagal of the Fourth Tone
Appearing after the resurrection to your disciples, O Savior, you gave Peter the tending of your sheep as recompense for his love, asking him to tend them with care. Therefore you said: If you love me, O Peter, feed my sheep, tend my lambs. He immediately displayed his affection and inquired about the other disciple. By their prayers, O Christ, preserve your flock from ravaging wolves.
Now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
Theotokion
Second Tone
Most blessed are you, Virgin Theotokos, for through him who took flesh from you, Hades was taken captive, Adam was recalled from the dead, the curse was abolished, Eve was set free, death was put to death, and we were given life. Therefore we cry aloud in praise: Blessed are you, Christ our God, who has been so pleased, glory to you.
The Great Doxology
Glory to you who has shown us the light.
Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill to all people.
We praise you, we bless you, we worship you, we glorify you, we give thanks to you for your great glory.
Lord, King, heavenly God, Father, almighty; Lord, the only‑begotten Son, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit.
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father who take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us, you who take away the sins of the world.
Receive our prayer, you who sit at the right hand of the Father, and have mercy on us.
For you only are holy, only you are Lord
Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.
Each day we bless you, and we praise your name forever and to the ages of ages.
Lord, grant that we may be kept this day without sin.
Blessed are you, Lord, God of our fathers. Your name is praised and glorified throughout all ages. Amen.
Let your mercy, Lord, be upon us, as our trust is in you.
Blessed are you, Lord, teach me your statutes (3).
Lord, you have been our refuge from generation to generation. I said: Lord, have mercy on me; heal my soul, for I have sinned against you.
Lord, to you have I fled; teach me to do your will, for you are my God.
For you are the source of life, and in your light we shall see light.
Extend your mercy to those who know you.
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.
Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.
(Then we sing in a stronger voice:)
Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.
(Then the following resurrection hymn is sung:)
People: Today salvation has come to the world. Let us sing to him who is risen, the author of our life. For he has vanquished death by death and has given us victory and great mercy.
(Then the Ektenes and the Apolysis are said in a low voice inside the sanctuary in front of the holy Table).
About This Book
The Service of the Sunday Orthros is one of the most exciting services of the Orthodox Church. Its main focus is on the praise and glorification of God. Scriptural images are scattered throughout the text in such abundance that it can be said that the Sunday Orthros is, to a large extent, Scripture recast into verse and hymns, with the focus and emphasis on the hope and joy of the Resurrection. This wonderful service is now being offered for the first time in a bilingual edition (Greek and English) with the hope that it will nurture and inspire those who pray it.
About The Translator
The translator, the Reverend Nomikos Michael Vaporis, is Professor of Byzantine and Modern Greek History at Hellenic College/ Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology and director of Holy Cross Orthodox Press, which has produced over a dozen bilingual liturgical texts.
These katavasias are sung from 22 September to 7 November, from 10 February to the beginning of the Triodion, and from the Sunday of All Saints to 27 July, as well as on 14 August. For the other katavasias, see in the appropriate places in the Menologion.
Translated by N. Michael Vaporis
For my sister Mary and my brothers John and George and their spouses Anthony, Eva, and Kalliope
