November
Menaion
Sophia Press
Newton Center, Massachusetts
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in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
re<->cording, taping, and any retrieval system, without the written
permission of Sophia Press, PO Box 248, Newton Cenete, MA 02459. Printed
in the United States of America.
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@TITLE PG JUST = In preparing this translation, we gratefully acknowledge
the French works of Fr. Deacon Denis Guillaume, which were extensively
consulted, and
Troparia and Stichera are taken, with permission. All texts from
Daily Worship
Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Catholic Church.
Menaion.
(Service Books of the Byzantine Churches; 1-
Contents: v. 1 September v. 2 October v. 3
November v. 4 December v. 7 March.
1. Divine office - Texts. 2. Catholic Church - Byzantine
Rite, Melkite - Liturgy - Texts. I. II. Series: Service Books of the
Byzantine Churches; 3, etc.
BX4711.365.M56 1984 264'.015 83-26559
MENAION - NOVEMBER
@DATE = November 1
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs, the Wonderworkers
and Physicians, Cosmas and Damian
@FEAST TITLE = (4th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 6)
6.
gathered for themselves an unfailing treasure; freely have they received,
and freely do they give healing to those who are suffering. In keeping
with the Gospel, they possessed neither silver nor gold, but they
bestowed their benefits upon men and beasts. Since they submitted
themselves to Christ in all things, they intercede with boldness before
Him on behalf of our souls.
5.
4.
here below, these two holy companions became citizens of heaven; sharing
the same sentiments, they had but one soul and shared one community
of life. Thus they grant healing to all who suffer, bestowing their
benefits freely on all in need. On their annual feast, let us sing
to them in a worthy manner, for they intercede before Christ on behalf
of our souls.
3.
2.
worthy of our praise, the wise Cosmas and Damian, pour forth a stream
of healing as a life-giving fountain with two outlets; and their relics
heal the wounds of those who touch them. Their names alone are enough
to drive illness from men; helpful to all who seek their aid, they
intercede with boldness before Christ on behalf of our souls.
1.
v.
@BODY TXT IND = Endless is the grace these holy ones receive from
Christ; thus their relics still work miracles through the divine power;
when they are invoked, their names are enough to heal incurable diseases.
Through them, O Lover of Mankind, deliver us also from bodily and
spiritual illness.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Having slipped in the pit of my thoughts, submitted
to the seductions of the Seducer, I have recourse to your wondrous
compassion in my misery, O divine Bride, and to your fervent intercession,
O pure Virgin; snatch me from trials and temptations; save me, all-pure
one, from the attacks of the devil, that with love I may sing to you,
glorify you and bow down before you, magnifying you, O Lady, who are
blessed at all times.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = As Simeon said, O all-holy Lady, a sword pierced your
heart when you saw Him who had radiantly risen from your womb by an
ineffable word now lifted on the Cross by the impious, given vinegar
and gall to drink, pierced in His side, and nailed through His hands
and feet. As a mother, you lamented and wept as you said, <169>What
is this wondrous mystery, O my beloved Son?<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
1.
of the moneyless wonderworkers heals a multitude of sufferers, for
the treasury of the holy ones is abundant and is never exhausted.
By their intercession, O Christ, have pity on us.
v.
2.
and practicing good deeds, you ran along the ways of salvation. Faultlessly
keeping your souls in complete purity, you kept away from accumulating
material possessions. Made brilliant as gold by the Holy Spirit, you
granted healing to the sick without seeking gold, O holy unmercenary
wonderworkers, Cosmas and Damian, resplendent companions, divine and
enlightened brothers, our protectors in suffering and affliction,
who freely heal our souls of all disease.
v.
all His good pleasure is upon them.
3.
on earth in great humility: in every place through which you passed,
freely healing the sufferings of the sick, you seemed to be companions
of the angels. O brothers full of delights, Cosmas and Damian, by
your prayers also heal all of us of our pains.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Since Christ has not ceased to work in you, O holy
unmercenaries, you continue to work miracles here below, healing all
weakness and disease. Your care is like an inexhaustible fountain:
the more one drinks, the more it overflows in streams; drained daily,
it gushes forth even more abundantly, always providing and never depleted;
those who drink are refreshed with healing, but it remains full forever.
What then shall we call you? You are Physicians of our souls and bodies,
treating incurable pains, healing the whole world freely by the charisms
received from Christ the Savior, who grants us great mercy.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Mother of God, you are the true vine laden with
the Fruit of Life: wherefore we implore you, O Lady, to intercede
together with the unmercenary wonderworkers and all the saints that
we may obtain mercy for our souls
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing a lawless people unjustly nail You to the Cross,
the pure Virgin, Your Mother, O Savior, was wounded in her heart as
Simeon had once foretold.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O holy moneyless ones and wonderworkers, Cosmas and
Damian, heal us of our diseases. Freely you have received: freely
give.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Resurrectional Theotokion
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Good One, You were born of the Virgin and suffered
crucifixion for us. You destroyed death by Your death, and as God
You made manifest the resurrection. Turn not away from those You have
made by Your hands: O Merciful One, show Your love to men, and accept
as our intercessor the Mother of God, who gave birth to You; O our
Savior, save a desperate people!
@AFTR THEOTOK =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@RUBRIC = Use Festal Format, for Fourth Class Feasts.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns from the Parakletike
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O glorious Physicians and Wonderworkers who have
received the power of healing, extend it upon those in need. In your
kindness to us, hold down our enemies' pride and heal the world through
your miracles.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = The diagnosis of these skilled physicians surpasses all
wisdom; they restore strength to all without even seeing them, for
they have received this power from the Most High. I owe them the grace
of singing to them as divine benefactors who grant a multitude of
healing, for they deliver us from all pain and heal the world through
their miracles.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 1, we commemorate the holy unmercenary wonderworkers,
Cosmas and Damian.
@SYNAX INDENT = Although both the unmercenaries have left the earth,
under the title of grace, the earth is still visited by these two
wonderworkers, as though they were still alive.
@SYNAX LEFT = By the prayers of Your saints, O Christ our God, have
pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Having received from God the power of healing, O blessed
unmercenaries, you take care of the sick and heal all the faithful
who draw near to your sacred temple. Thus, we rightly call your memory
blessed as we sing together with one voice.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Spotless Virgin, you gave birth to the One begotten
by God: the divine Word who brought salvation to the world and most
wisely worked out our redemption. Thus we all sing to you as the woman
who intercedes before Him to deliver us from all peril and disease.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
4.
you care for the passions of souls and bodies, O unmercenaries, healers
of all. Christ, who grants health to the faithful through you, has
made you unerring stars to enlighten the whole inhabited earth: Pray
to Him to save our souls!
3.
holy unmercenaries, you pour out healing upon believers like a spring.
By your secret workings in a holy manner, you care for the pains of
the sick as you prescribe the saving medicines flowing from the treasures
of the Spirit. Since you have become the temple of the life-giving
Trinity, who has manifestly come to dwell in you, pray to the Trinity
to save our souls.
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
2.
have inherited the kingdom. The earth, having received their bodies,
is filled with a sweet fragrance. The servants of Christ have their
dwelling in eternal life.
1.
glorious unmercenaries: heal those who call upon you in anguish and
in pain, entreating the good God to deliver us from the nets of the
enemy.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@AFTR PRAISES = Possessing the springs of all healing, O holy unmercenaries,
heal all those who implore a cure from you, for the Savior, the unfailing
Spring, has filled you with sublime gifts. The Lord has said to you,
as imitators of the Apostles in their divine zeal, <169>Behold, I
have given you power over the unclean spirits, power to dispel them
and heal every illness and infirmity!<170> Thus, in keeping with His
will, as you have received, so freely give, healing the sufferings
of our souls and bodies!
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Hail, refuge and fortress of Christians! Hail, ladder
leading to heaven! Hail, treasury of virginity, ark of the divine
glory, Mother of God, support of the world and pride of all: you restored
fallen mankind to Paradise, O tabernacle of holiness, radiant with
light and beauty!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing Christ, the Lover of Mankind, crucified and
pierced through His side by the soldier's lance, the all-pure one
cried out in tears, <169>What is this, my Son? What have the ungrateful
people rendered to You for all the good You have done them? I am in
wonder at Your voluntary crucifixion, O God of compassion!<170>
@RUBRIC = Great Doxology. Troparion. Litanies and Dismissal.
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 2
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Akindinos, Pegasios,
Aphtonios, Elpidephor, and Anempodisios
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
3.
athletes, those fervent defenders, who each obtains gifts for the
faithful in keeping with his name: Anempodisios brings freedom from
the passions; Elpidephor, hope for future goods; Aphtonios, an abundance
of heavenly treasures; Pegasios, a fountain which never runs dry;
and Akindinos, the removal of all danger.
2.
nor the boiling water of the cauldrons, neither the jaws of beasts
nor yawning pits, could separate your generous constancy from the
love of Christ. Ceaselessly lifting up your eyes to Him, and desiring
nothing else but Him, you put the enemy to flight.
1.
are filled as heirs of eternal life, grant help to the faithful who
take refuge in you. Deliver them from bondage, from captivity, from
all evils and from all danger, through the boldness which you have
before God; show the compassion which you have in true imitation of
Christ.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Today the radiant choir of five martyrs comes together
as resplendent stars to enlighten believers and invites them to rejoice.
They are servants of the mystic Sun, by which the erroneous beliefs
of the Persians were abolished; for they guided to the Faith those
who had venerated the visible sun and had bowed down before fire.
As athletes and martyrs, they filled their cup to the very brim and
made an oblation of their blood, poured out for Christ. They exhort
us who love the Faith. They say, <169>Come to the celebration of our
triumph! Behold the crowns with which we are honored; for Christ,
the Truth, has declared that he who perseveres to the end will be
saved! Thus, wear a crown with us, and we shall intercede for you
before the Lord!<170>
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Lady, whose womb has contained the Infinite, snatch
me from the belly of the monster of sin; save me from the strong storms
of temptations; rescue me from the winds of transgressions; dry up
the sea of my iniquities. By your divine covenant, stop the attacks
which the demons launch against me, that I may ceaselessly be able
to glorify you as ever-blessed, O spotless Virgin!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = The spotless Ewe, the blameless Lady, seeing her Lamb
lifted up on the Cross, cried out with maternal grief and wonder:
<169>What is this strange spectacle and wondrous sight, O sweetest
of children? How can an ungrateful people hand You over to the tribunal
of Pilate to have You condemned to death, O You who are the Life of
all? I sing, O Word, of Your ineffable condescension!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Come, let us rejoice in the Lord, O feast-lovers,
on this day on which we celebrate the memorial of the martyrs! Come,
let us sing their praises, acclaiming them as we say, <169>Hail, Akindinos
and Pegasios, Anempodisios, Elpidephor, and Aphtonios, who eclipsed
into the abyss the error of idolatry and clearly proclaimed Christ
as Lord in the arena. O blessed athletes and martyrs of multiple sufferings,
ceaselessly intercede before Him on behalf of our souls!
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = All my hope I place in you, O Theotokos: keep me under
the wings of your protection.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = O Lord, seeing You stretched out on the wood of the
Cross, the Virgin Mother broke out in tears and cried aloud, <169>O
Jesus, most sweet Child, unapproachable Light of the Father who has
no beginning, why did You abandon me and leave me alone? Make haste
to be glorified, that those who glorify Your divine Passion may inherit
Your glory!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O victorious witnesses of the Lord, blessed is the
earth that received your blood, and holy are the heavenly places that
opened to your souls. You have vanquished the enemy in battle and
proclaimed Christ with courage. We beg You to intercede with Him who
is all good, that He may save our souls.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Reflecting in their five-fold splendor the radiant
beauty of the Holy Trinity, the divine company of martyrs blunted
the terrible arrows of the tyrants. They endlessly pour forth that
grace which knows no obstacle and protects from all danger those who,
through them, divinely approach with faith and love the Creator of
all, Christ our God.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Wipe away the stains from my soul in the streams of Your
mercy, O compassionate Lord; enlighten me with Your unfading Light
that I may sing of the five-fold choir of martyrs: Akindinos and the
divine Pegasios, the noble Anempodisios with Elpidephor and Aphtonios.
These victorious athletes have valiantly triumphed over the assaults
of their torments, O Word; and in love for You, they offered themselves
as a spiritual sacrifice to You, the Creator of all, Christ our God.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 2, we commemorate the passion of the holy
martyrs Akindinos, Pegasios, Aphtonios, Elpide<->phor, and Anempodisios.
@SYNAX INDENT = On the second, Akindinos and two companions perished
in the flames; as a victorious athlete, the martyr Aphtonios bent
his neck under the sword, along with Elpidephor. O Master, save us!
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, have pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O holy martyrs, your spring abundantly pours forth
the grace of healing, delivering from all peril the faithful who celebrate
your sacred memory with hope. Pour out your remedies today upon those
who lovingly venerate your five-fold choir, O illustrious martyrs.
@AFTR EXAPOST = You have renewed the corrupt nature of the first father
by conceiving, then bearing in a virginal and wondrous manner the
Creator of all, who granted strength to the choir of martyrs. As they
struggled, they sang of you, O Mother of God, as the prelude and first-fruits
of salvation.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Having dyed your body with purple in the streams
of your own blood, you ran the course of martyrdom without danger,
O martyr Akindinos. In the divine power which covered you, you destroyed
the snares of the enemy. You always intercede for us before Christ
our God for the salvation of our souls.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Like an axe laid to a grown tree, as David sings,
so the light of the five-fold fire of the martyrs strikes down the
error of the enemy. For having confessed Christ in the presence of
rulers, they ceaselessly intercede for our souls forever.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = I call you blessed, all-pure one, who snatch mortals
from the pit of despair, from the abyss of evil. I sing of you, divine
Bride, blessed in all times, and I glorify your divine maternity;
for you have brought forth a Savior for the world, holy Virgin, and
have delivered mankind from the ancestral sentence.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing You nailed to the Cross, O Lord, Your Virgin
Mother was struck with wonder. She said, <169>What do I see, O my
beloved Son? Is this the return you receive from an ungrateful people
whom You have filled with so many benefits? They have turned away
from the Law rather than singing, 'Glory to Your ineffable condescension,
O Lord!'<170>
@AFTR STAVRO =
@DATE = November 3
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Acepsimas, Joseph,
and Aeithalas; Dedication of the Church of the Great-Martyr George
in Lydda, where his Relics are Enshrined
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to you I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
6.
virtues, chalices pouring out for us the wine of Faith in order to
bring joy to our souls, nourishing us with milk of healing, stars
shining with the light of truth, suns enlightening the ends of the
earth, scattering the darkness of error and shedding the light of
knowledge upon all! O far-famed martyrs, entreat Christ our God to
grant great mercy to our souls!
5.
the fire of the knowledge of God, you have extinguished the error
of the impious who worshipped all types of fire. Through you, those
who rendered a foolish adoration to the sun and stars have lost their
light, and the myths of the Magi have ceased to direct them. O venerable
martyrs and defenders of the divine Trinity, for those who were sitting
in the shadows of ignorance, you have shone like the light of the
true and supreme Shepherd, the sacrificed Christ, who grants great
mercy to the world.
4.
The maddened persecutors fell upon you, O wise witnesses, and submitted
you to even further trials. Beaten by clubs, torn by crude iron instruments,
with<->out flinching or denying your God, you carried off the crown
of conquerors, being numbered in the assembly of the martyrs; with
them, you ask the Lord to grant great mercy to our souls.
@BOLD TITLE = For George
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
3.
own Master; your constancy filled all hearts with amazement. You trampled
down the foolish audacity of tyrants as you passed on to the radiant
life of the angels; now you rejoice with them forever. By your presence,
O blessed George, you always save the faithful who glorify you. Moved
to compassion by the cries of the distressed, O holy martyr, you intercede
before Christ who grants great mercy to the world.
2.
lighten our pain in the midst of trials and temptations; lift the
burden from our shoulders! Protect us, save us, defend us, O holy
George! Lead us toward God by Faith on the ship of the commandments
of the Creator; so that at the end of a life received from His goodness,
we may receive the divine rewards in heaven, celebrating Christ who
grants great mercy to the world.
1.
you bore: your fame spreads from mouth to mouth, O illustrious martyr!
As a brilliant defender, O wondrous George, you hasten throughout
the world, adorned with countless miracles, supporting those who suffer,
healing the ill by your prayers. Thus we acknowledge you to be our
fervent intercessor, the benefactor of all, and a redeemer of captives!
Entreat Christ, O blessed one, to grant great mercy to our souls!
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = O blessed George, soldier of Christ, your life was
worthy of your name: taking up your cross, you cultivated the land
made barren by the errors of the devil. Uprooting the weeds of pagan
worship, you planted the vine of the Orthodox Faith. Thus you pour
forth healing for all the faithful throughout the world, and were
seen to be a good gardener for the Holy Trinity. We entreat you to
intercede for the peace of the world and great mercy for our souls!
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Mother of God, you are the true vine laden with
the Fruit of Life: wherefore we implore you, O Lady, to intercede
together with the martyrs and all the saints that we may obtain mercy
for our souls.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = O Christ, when she saw You crucified, Your Mother cried
out, <169>O my Son, what amazing wonder greets my eyes? How can You,
the Giver of Life, die in the flesh, suspended on a Cross?<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
1.
refuge for the oppressed: be a harbor of repose also for me, since
my life has been shipwrecked. I entreat you to guide my life, so that
in the surety of the Faith, I may magnify your superhuman combats.
v.
2.
way, as I sleep at night. Grant me a watchful spirit; grant that I
may do the will of the Lord, that on the day of judgment, I may find
absolution for the acts of my life, for I take refuge under your holy
protection.
v.
all His good pleasure is upon them.
3.
grace and the lance of the Cross, O holy George, you escaped the attacks
of the enemy. Having put to flight the hordes of demons, you exult
as a captain with the angels as you sanctify the believers whom you
help and save when they call upon you.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = The three young men who were once kept unharmed from
the fire in the Persian furnace were the prelude and image foretelling
the unanimity of your sentiments and the witness you bore in Christ
to the Most High Unity of the eternal Trinity, O martyrs radiant with
a triple light! As they entered the fire without denying the true
God, so you did not refuse death, nor did you surrender, for love
of Christ. Just as a fourth Person appeared in the flames to refresh
them with dew, so were you welcomed into a place of refreshment by
Christ our God, one of the Trinity. O divinely-inspired martyrs, Acepsimas,
Joseph, and Aeithalas, intercede before Him for our souls!
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Virgin Mother of God, we know that the Word took
flesh from your womb: entreat Him to grant mercy to our souls!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing You suspended on the Cross, the all-holy Mother
of God cried out to You in tears: <169>O my Son and my God, O my beloved
Child! How can You suffer this unjust Passion?<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord our God, Your holy martyrs Acepsimas, Joseph,
and Aeithalas have deserved the crown of immortality on account of
their good fight. Armed with Your strength, they have vanquished their
persecutors and crushed Satan's dreadful might. Through their supplications,
O Christ God, save our souls!
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of George
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O great among the Saints and glorious martyr George:
since you are a deliverer of captives and a defender of the poor,
a physician for the sick and a noble attendant to kings, intercede
with Christ God, that He may save our souls!
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Acepsimas
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O holy Acepsimas, you served the Holy Mysteries faithfully
and became an acceptable oblation while partaking of the Cup of Christ
together with your companions: do not cease to intercede for us all.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = My heart has become sterile through a multitude of sins;
O Jesus all-powerful, with the rain of Your grace, make it produce
the fruits of the virtues: grant my spirit the light of wisdom, that
I may joyfully sing of the hieromartyr Acepsimas, as well as the blessed
Joseph and the noble Aeithalas, who found in You the courage to face
countless torments. Having received that grace, they grant healing
to the sick and ceaselessly intercede for us all.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of George
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = We, the faithful, who take refuge under your ready
and powerful protection, implore you, victorious martyr of Christ,
to deliver from all dangers and evils all those who honor you, so
that we may cry out to you, <169>Joy to you, Great-martyr George!
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 3, we commemorate the holy martyrs Acepsimas,
Joseph, and Aeithalas.
@SYNAX INDENT = Acepsimas perished under the blows of the club. His
two friends underwent a hail of stones; and thus, on the third, supernatural
joy was granted to them. O Lord, have mercy on us!
@SYNAX LEFT = On this same day we celebrate the dedication of the
Church of the holy Great-martyr George in Lydda, where his relics
are enshrined.
@SYNAX INDENT = As it exults on this day, O holy martyr, the world
immortalizes the dedication of your Church; and with rejoicing, the
creation celebrates the deposition of your holy relics.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR EXAPOST = The illustrious bishop Acepsimas, the valiant Joseph,
and the all-wise Aeithalas struggled with the strength of Christ,
and the error of the Persians was brought down. They entreat the Holy
Trinity on behalf of us all. As we glorify their sacred martyrdom
with faith, we celebrate their wondrous memory in the joy of our hearts.
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O blessed George, in the streams of your own blood,
you extinguished the flame of error, and you made the boldness of
tyrants completely disappear as you glorified Christ, O victorious
martyr. Thus you received the immortal crown of incorruptible life
from the hands of the Most High.
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Behold, I am deprived of all salvation, for I have
fallen into the pit of sin. The fate of the goats on the left hand
of Christ and the threat of terrible punishment await me; but before
I am condemned, take pity on me, Virgin Mother of God, who assure
us of your fervent protection.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
4.
of Christ, the ever-vibrant branch on the vine of life, which produces
the ripe cluster of grapes from which flows the wine of faith to refresh
the faithful who celebrate his sacred memory each year.
3.
2.
a sun giving light to the firmament. As a pearl of great price, a
brilliant jewel, a son of the day, a noble martyr and victorious defender
of the faithful in peril, we acclaim you and celebrate your memory.
1.
way, as I sleep at night. Grant me a watchful spirit; grant that I
may do the will of the Lord, that on the day of judgement I may find
absolution for the acts of my life, for I take refuge under your holy
protection.
v.
@AFTR PRAISES = O brethren, let us acclaim in spirit that strong spiritual
steel, holy George, the renowned martyr. In the fire of his love for
Christ, perils forged him and torments sharpened him. Various tortures
destroyed his body, which was destined to perish. Love triumphed over
nature, persuading the lover to march through death to his Beloved,
Christ our God, the Savior of our souls.
@AFTR PRAISES = v.
@AFTR PRAISES = The terrifying shadows of death assail my soul, O
holy Bride of God; the attacks of demons make me tremble with fright.
Deliver me from their dominion. In your goodness, O unwedded Virgin,
lead me to the harbor of salvation and the unsetting Light in the
company of all the saints.
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos.
@RUBRIC =
@DATE =
@DATE = November 4
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of our Holy Father Joannicios the Great,
the Hermit of Mount Olympos; of the Holy Hieromartyr Nicander, Bishop
of Myra, and of Hermeos, a Priest
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For Joannicios
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
6.
destroyed the hordes of demons; from Christ who gave you strength,
O blessed Father, you received your reward as a conqueror. Pray to
Him to remove all danger and peril from the faithful who celebrate
your awe-inspiring memory.
5.
renounced all passing things here below, although you lived bodily,
and lived a bodiless life on earth under the guidance of the Spirit.
Thus you became a leader, rule, and wondrous model in the Faith for
monks.
4.
O Joannicios, divinely inspired, you became a lamp for the ends of
the earth. By your prayers, you have scattered the darkness of the
passions, suffering, and evil, for you save from all peril and ill
the faithful who celebrate your blessed memory.
@BOLD TITLE = For Nicander
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
3.
Father, you confirmed and ratified it by your works. For you valiantly
won the victory over the pack of tyrants and horde of enemies. Carrying
off the prize, you cried out: <169>Glory to Your invincible power,
O Lord, our Beloved!<170>
2.
fragrance of healing upon us, O Nicander. You drive away the stench
of adversity and bodily passions. You grant abundant grace to those
who cry aloud to Christ, <169>O Lord, You Yourself are the inexhaustible
Perfume which sweetens those who sing to Your name!<170>
1.
wonderful among His Saints, O venerable Nicander, entreat Him for
those who wholeheartedly celebrate your sacred memory and glorify
your deeds. By your prayers, may we too experience the ineffable goods
and glory of God!
v.
@BODY TXT IND = Having valiantly run the race to the end in the arena
of asceticism, you hastened to complete the course of the virtues.
You put to death the passions which encircled you like wild beasts,
and faultlessly preserved the image of God within you. Having become
the treasury of the Spirit, you foresaw the future as present and
were a worker of miracles, O God-bearing Father Joannicios. Forever
before the throne of God, you constantly intercede for the salvation
of our souls!
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = As a sure refuge, fortress and tower, an unbreachable
rampart, we have no one but you, O all-pure Virgin. We seek refuge
in you as we cry out, <169>Come to our aid, O our Lady, lest we perish!
Manifest to all of us your grace, the glory of your power, and the
greatness of your mercy toward us!<170>
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = When they put your Son and God upon the Cross, O holy
Virgin, what pain you felt, weeping, grieving, and crying bitterly,
<169>Alas, O beloved Child! What unjust suffering for You who willed
to save the earthly sons of Adam!<170> Thus we entreat you with faith,
O Virgin, to obtain for us the favor of your Son.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Wounded by love for Christ, O Joannicios, you mounted
to the heights and you received the power to heal the ills of those
who wholeheartedly sing of your passing, O venerable father.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Virgin, in the purity of his spirit, the prophet
Isaiah saw from afar that you would give birth to the Author of all
creation; for you alone, O all-pure one, were shown as spotless from
all ages. Thus I entreat you to purify the stains of my heart and
make me share the divine splendor of your Son, and to be placed at
His right hand when He is seated to judge the whole world, as it is
written.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stravrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = <169>O my Son, the judges of Israel decided to condemn
You to death, making You appear as a criminal before the judgment
seat, O Savior, who judge the living and the dead. The impious submitted
You to the judgement of Pilate, but they had already condemned You
before the sentence. Seeing this, I am wounded and share Your condemnation,
O Lord, for I prefer death rather than a life filled with mourning,<170>
said the Mother of God, who alone had compassion.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Joannicios
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your abundant tears made the wilderness sprout and
bloom, and your deep sighing made your labor fruitful a hundredfold.
You became a star shining over the world with miracles, holy father
Joannicios. Pray to Christ God that He may save our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Nicander
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O holy hieromartyr Nicander, you lent yourself to
the Apostles' way of life and succeeded them on their throne. Inspired
by God, you found the way to contemplation through the practice of
virtue; wherefore, you became a perfect teacher of truth, fighting
for the faith unto the shedding of your blood. Intercede with Christ
God, that He may save our souls.
v.
@RUBRIC = Theotokion of the day in Tone 4.
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Joannicios
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You became a brilliant star over the earth, giving
light to those who lay in the shadow of the passions, as an effective
physician for those afflicted with ills. You received the grace of
healing: grant this grace to those entreating you, that we may cry
aloud, <169>Hail, O holy Father Joannicios!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = O blessed Father, your holy life has shone upon the world,
giving light by the splendor of your deeds, in order to drive away
all dark passions from our souls and pour out immaterial light upon
the faithful who cry out with their whole heart: Hail, O delight and
pride of monks! Hail, O torch of the world and its light! Hail, O
prompt succor for the sick! Hail, firm support for the healthy! Hail,
O you who renounced the earthly army for your King! Hail, O you who
exchanged that which is passing for heaven! Hail, O holy treasury
of true virtues! Hail, O worker of ineffable miracles! Hail, O you
who put to flight the passions! Hail, O our fervent protector! Hail,
O ever-ready deliverer! Hail, O our refuge and our shelter! Hail,
O holy father Joannicios!"
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 4, we commemorate our venerable father Joannicios
the Great, the hermit of Mount Olympos.
@SYNAX INDENT = Leaving this earthly emptiness, Joannicios is received
by Him who fixed the earth over the abyss by His word. On the fourth,
a grave was prepared in his honor.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the holy hieromartyr
Nicander, bishop of Myra, and the martyred priest Hermeos, who were
ordained by the holy apostle Titus.
@SYNAX INDENT = Two martyrs gave proof of their ardent love when they
were buried alive for the sake of Christ, the living God.
@SYNAX LEFT = By the prayers of Your saints, O Christ our God, take
pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O father Joannicios, you wisely subjected the appetites
of the flesh to the sovereignty of the spirit. Thus you have obtained
the object of your desire and found the glory of God, O blessed one.
Never cease to intercede on our behalf.
@AFTR EXAPOST = By the blessed apostle Titus you were planted, O venerable
Nicander, and by him you were consecrated as a holy hierarch for the
city of Myra; in it, you rendered the witness of martyrdom for Christ,
together with Hermeos, who now reigns with you in heaven.
@AFTR EXAPOST = With a holy kiss, I honor your divine and all-pure
image, O spotless Virgin. Before it I prostrate with love, faith and
reverence, for it pours forth healing for body and soul upon the faithful
who celebrate your divine maternity.
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos.
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 5
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Galaction and His
Wife Episteme
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
3.
growth to full stature in Christ through pains and afflictions, and
you became a sacrifice acceptable to Him, a perfect victim, O blessed
one, immolated by your own desire. What sublime perseverance! What
constancy in Faith! By it, you stand before Christ, fully divinized.
2.
desire, your soul and heart enlightened by His radiance. By your constant
resistance, O blessed one, you were victorious over the many snares
of the ancient serpent, O Episteme, divine beauty, adornment of consecrated
virgins, martyr of many struggles.
1.
to give light to the whole creation in faith by the radiant splendor
of their struggles and the divine brilliance of their healings. We
who celebrate their splendid festival wish to glorify Christ who sanctifies
all creation through them.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Come, my soul, weep and lament, pour forth streams
of tears from the depths of your heart, and cry out to the Mother
of God: <169>O pure Virgin, in your immense compassion, deliver me,
I pray, from frightening and terrible punishment, and grant that I
may rest in a place of repose, to rejoice there in eternal happiness.<170>
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = <169>O strange wonder! Wondrous and new mystery!<170>
said the Virgin as she saw hanging on the Cross between two thieves
the One she had borne without pain. Weeping, she cried as she said,
<169>Alas, O my beloved Son! How have a cruel and thankless people
nailed You to a Cross?<170>
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord our God, Your holy martyrs Galaction and Episteme
have deserved the crown of immortality on account of their good fight.
Armed with Your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors and
crushed Satan's dreadful might. Through their supplications, O Christ
God, save our souls!
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You were numbered among the martyrs of Christ because
you fought the good fight in many encounters, O Galaction and your
faithful wife and battle-companion Episteme. Before God, One and Undivided,
both of you are interceding for the sake of us all.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = With hymns and chants, let us celebrate the generous
martyr Galaction as well as his far-famed wife, the well-named Episteme.
They humbled the pride of the enemy, denouncing the impious worship
of the idols and proclaiming their faith in Christ. Thus they radiantly
received from Him their immortal crowns in heaven, and they ceaselessly
are interceding for the sake of us all.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 5, we commemorate the holy martyrs Galaction
and Episteme.
@SYNAX INDENT = The sword, cutting down that virginal couple, united
by one soul and by holy baptism, led to a blessed end the martyr Galaction
and the young Episteme on the fifth of November.
@SYNAX LEFT = By the prayers of Your saints, O Christ our God, take
pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O martyr Galaction, nourished by the milk of Faith,
in company with the venerable Episteme, you struggled to the end.
By your holy prayers, may we be saved from eternal damnation.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Glorifying you with thanksgiving, O Virgin, we say
to you together with the Angel: <169>Hail, O Mother of God! Hail,
O Virgin Mother of the King of Glory!<170>
@AFTR EXAPOST =
@DATE = November 6
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of our Father among the Saints Paul,
Archbishop of Constantinople, the Confessor
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
3.
bearing the same name, adorned with the same virtues of purity, spiritual
courage, constancy in the midst of perils; for you were enflamed with
zeal for the true Faith, a defender of Orthodoxy. Together with him,
you too are now glorified in the dwellings of heaven.
2.
an end to Arius, who denied the divinity of Christ, and the impious
Macedonius, O blessed hierarch; and the correctness of your doctrine
strengthened Orthodoxy. Thus, accepting your brilliant confession,
the Lover of Mankind made you a sharer in His Kingdom in heaven.
1.
acclaim you with fervor, O holy Paul: save us from all sin, all dangers,
all the storms of the passions and from tyranny. As an acceptable
hierarch, as an invincible witness, you can plead freely before Christ
our God.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 1)
@BODY TXT IND = O venerable father, having been clothed as a bishop,
you imitated the zeal of your namesake, the apostle Paul, enduring
the same persecutions and dangers as he. You took pains to put an
end to the blasphemy of Arius. Suffering for the sake of the eternal
and consubstantial Trinity, you overcame the impious Macedonius, the
adversary of the Spirit. Then, having explained the true Faith to
all, you went to share the dwelling of the bodiless angels; forever
with them, now intercede for the salvation of our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Happiness of the angels in heaven, protectress of
mankind on earth, O pure Virgin, save us who seek refuge in you, for<197>after
God<197>our hope rests in you.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = O Mother of God, your Son willingly suffered for us
in order to restore impassibility to mankind by His Passion; pray
to Him now to rescue me from the passions of soul and body, O Virgin
all-worthy of our praise!
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Having crossed the sea of asceticism, driven by the
breeze of abstinence, you escaped the storm of the passions. O venerable
father, namesake of holy Paul, you endured persecutions, dangers,
and mistreatment by heretical babblers; but you overthrew the doctrine
of Arius and put to flight the heresy of Nestorius in your zeal for
the Church of Christ. Intercede before Him, O blessed hierarch, for
the salvation of our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = I have recourse to your holy protection as to a harbor
of salvation, O spotless Virgin Mary, and I ask you to take pity:
do not reject your servant, but save him from present affliction,
O you who have compassion by nature. O Mother of the Most High God,
by your constant prayer, save your faithful servants from adversity.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = When you saw hanging on the Cross the ripe cluster
of grapes which you had produced without labor, O Virgin, you cried
out, mourning and weeping: <169>My Son, pour forth the sweet nectar
that takes away the drunkenness of the passions. For my sake, who
gave birth to You, O Benefactor, manifest Your mercy, O Lord!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your confession of the divine Faith established you
in the Church as another Paul, full of zeal, among the hierarchs.
Your innocent blood cries out to the Lord with that of Abel and Zechariah.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Having made the light of heaven shine on earth like
a star, you now enlighten the whole Church. For her sake, you struggled,
O blessed Paul, and gave up your life. Like the blood of Abel and
Zechariah, your blood cries out to the Lord from the earth.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Pillar of confessors, namesake of Paul, that light of
the world, imitator of his life, you fought the same fight and bore
in your body the wounds of Jesus, making them your delight and your
glory. Ceaselessly appearing before heretical emperors without fear,
but rather strengthened, your blood cries out to the Lord from the
earth.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 6, we commemorate our father among the saints,
Paul, the Archbishop of Constantinople, the Confessor.
@SYNAX INDENT = Wearing his omophorion around his neck like a noose,
holy Paul, the Confessor and hierarch, instantly doubled his glory
by strangulation. On the sixth, we celebrate his festive memory.
@SYNAX LEFT = By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Imitating holy Paul, the preacher of the Faith, you
spread abroad the teachings of the supreme wisdom from on high, cutting
short all heresy, O splendor of hierarchs and blessed confessor. You
have appeared as a pillar supporting Orthodoxy.
@AFTR EXAPOST = O divine Bride, all-pure Virgin Mary, entreat the
God whom you bore in the flesh for us who sing to you with love, venerating
your image and that of your Son, that He deliver from punishment and
eternal pain the faithful who pray to you with fervor.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 7)
@AFTR APOSTICA = You have sounded the depths of the Spirit, leading
your life on earth like a bodiless angel. Having drawn from the treasures
of the knowledge of God, you poured forth Orthodoxy for the faithful
by your teachings, O venerable father.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Queen who gave birth in the flesh to our Master
and Lord, deliver me from the captivity and power of the enemy.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = O Lord, seeing You crucified by Your own will, the
all-pure one celebrated Your supreme majesty in a mournful hymn.
@AFTR STAVRO =
@DATE = November 7
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Thirty-three Holy Martyrs of Melitene,
and of our Holy Father Lazaros the Wonderworker, Hermit of Mount Gelasios
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For the martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
6.
assembly, holy people, inspired host of martyrs, unbreakable line
of shields, all-comely army: thus have you appeared, O wondrous soldiers!
Because of your merits as citizens of the City on high, we have the
duty to call you blessed!
5.
Athanasios, Hesychios, Mammas and the divine Barachios, Callinicos,
Theagenes and Longinos, Theodocios, Valerios, Ostrychios, Callimacos,
Theodore and Nikon, Eugene, Theodulos and Xanthias.
4.
the noble Hieron, the wondrous Epiphanios, Maximian, Theophilos, Dulcitos
and Anicetos, Theodotos, Gigantos the divine, Eutychios, Dorotheos,
Castricos, Themelios and Claudian.
@BOLD TITLE = For Lazaros
@TONE # = (Tone 6)
3.
the flesh to the spirit, you became a model of virtue, the joy of
ascetics, a support for monks, the adornment of the holy fathers.
Now that you reflect the ineffable splendor of the Creator, you taste
the beauties of heaven in your spirit. Thus, in our hymns and chants,
we all celebrate your holy and sacred memory.
2.
of the flesh and all desire for earthly possessions, you set out on
the road to the City on high. You rose effortlessly in your ascent
to the heights of virtue, where you won the battle in a material body
over the bodiless enemy. Thus, O father Lazaros, you have joined the
choirs of bodiless angels where you intercede for our souls.
1.
Lazaros, and banishing the very idea of satisfying the passions, you
became a faithful observer of the precepts of the Lord, which you
kept in a wondrous way. Thus, He took up His dwelling in you, together
with the Father and the Spirit; and he granted you an abundance of
heavenly charisms, making you the author of amazing miracles and the
fervent protector of all the afflicted.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 5)
@BODY TXT IND = O venerable father, you gave no sleep to your eyes
nor any repose to your eyelids until you had freed your soul and body
of all passions, to the point that you were prepared as a tabernacle
for the Holy Spirit. For Christ came to dwell in you together with
the Father. Having become the servant of the consubstantial Trinity,
which you preached with a loud voice, O Lazaros, you now intercede
before God for us.
@BODY TXT IND = v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = I am plunged into the darkness of disaster. Send your
radiance upon me, O Virgin Mary, who have conceived in the flesh and
given birth to the divine Light. Draw me up quickly from the pit of
despair; set my feet firmly on the rock of the true Faith. Bring to
justice the demons who constantly make war upon me. Make haste to
calm the pain in my heart, O hope of all the ends of the earth, who
bring great mercy to the world.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Standing by Your Cross, Lord Jesus, Your Mother cried
out, mourning and weeping: <169>I cannot bear to see You nailed on
that Tree, O my Son, whom I brought into the world without a mother's
pain, as an unwedded Virgin. How then can I, Your spotless Mother,
now experience pain, with my heart torn in grief? Behold, the saying
of Simeon is fulfilled: `A sword of sorrow shall pierce your heart.'
O my Son, arise now and save those who sing to You, O Lord!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Venerable father, the whole world is filled with
the fame of your holy deeds; through them, you have received the recompense
of your labors in heaven. You destroyed hordes of demons and have
been united to the choirs of angels, whose pure lives you imitated.
By your boldness with Christ our God, ask peace for our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Lady, I lift up the eyes of my heart to you; do
not despise the poverty of my sighs; but at the hour when the world
will be judged by your Son, be a refuge, help and shelter for me.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = <169>In My humanity, they have nailed Me to the Cross,
put Me to death and buried Me lifeless in the tomb. In My divinity,
I shall arise from the dead and glorify you, O Mother, by My Resurrection!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord our God, Your thirty-three holy martyrs have
deserved the crown of immortality on account of their good fight.
Armed with Your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors and
crushed Satan's dreadful might. Through their supplications, O Christ
God, save our souls!
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Lazaros
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = In your night-long prayers, you wept streams of tears
upon your pillar, and your deep sighing made your labors fruitful
a hundredfold. You became a shepherd, granting pardon to all who draw
near to you, holy father Lazaros. Pray to Christ God that He may save
our souls.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Bearing brilliant radiance, the choir of martyrs
comes among us today and shines the rays of their wonders over the
Church. Celebrating their holy memory, O Savior, we ask You to save
us, by their prayers, from all danger, in Your divine mercy and Your
love for mankind.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Lazaros
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your labors surpassing nature and your hardships
caused amazement among the angels as they beheld them. Thus you received
a crown given by God. By the boldness which you possess before the
Lord, save us from all peril, that we may sing, <169>Hail, all-wise
father and Shepherd!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = O God-bearing father, you were an angel among men as
you hastened to ascend from earth to heaven. Thus, seeing you rival
the bodiless choirs, I am filled with fear and wonder as I do my duty
and sing to you: <169>Hail, rule for monks, exempt from error! Hail,
nourisher of souls, meadow of the virtues! Hail, our unfailing intercessor!
Hail, companion and delight of the angels! Hail, O you who increased
the choir of the mystic sheep! Hail, O you who lead them safe and
sound to heaven! Hail, you who, with God, give them their daily bread!
Hail, you who reprove the insolence of demons! Hail, fountain flowing
with miracles without being exhausted! Hail, O pledge of joys to come!
Hail, light of all Asia! Hail, guide and lamp for monks! Hail, all-wise
father and Shepherd!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 7, we commemorate the thirty-three martyrs
of Melitene: Hieron and his companions.
@SYNAX INDENT = In his manly courage, Hieron showed neither cowardice
nor fear in the presence of the sword. The iron pierced thirty-three
martyrs: the impious cut down their heads, but their souls were lifted
up. On the seventh, the executioners took off the head of Hieron,
but he was crowned with eternal glory.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate our venerable father
Lazaros the Wonderworker, the Hermit of Mount Gelasios.
@SYNAX INDENT = O Patriarch Abraham, open wide your bosom: another
saint, imitating Lazaros, is drawing near.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = You saints surrounding the throne of the compassionate
Christ, you thirty-three towers protecting the Church by your intercession:
protect the whole world and the faithful who glorify you, O victorious
martyrs, as we celebrate your light-bearing memory.
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR EXAPOST = The Creator sanctified you from your mother's womb
and made you a tabernacle of the Spirit; thus you became a light for
monks, O Lazaros, guiding them from dark falls toward the light of
the divine precepts and leading them toward Christ. By your prayers,
O holy father, entreat Him to save the faithful who sing to you.
@AFTR EXAPOST = In you, O holy Virgin, the prophet once saw a mountain
from which a stone was quarried without the hand of man, to destroy
the altars of the false gods and the monuments consecrated to the
demons. O divine Bride, entreat your Son to shatter the idols binding
my spirit; in a mystic manner, may He restore His image in the depth
of my heart.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
4.
perfume of life, that other Lazaros, the friend of Christ, in his
tunic stained with the perspiration he had shed in his labors, is
present with us now to receive our praises and make us rejoice as
in an inexhaustible banquet. O multitude of monks, come together with
feast-lovers in one choir: let us venerate him as a faithful steward
and loyal servant of our Lord and our God.
3.
2.
All around it, like well-armed squires, you have stationed your works
in order to repulse the assaults of the passions. Then you ascended
to the bridal chamber, O blessed one, in order to draw near with confidence
to your Bridegroom, our God, whose beauty now delights you. Intercede
with Him: entreat Him to save and enlighten our souls.
1.
became both the pure victim and priest for Christ, calls us all together
to rejoice in the feast in his memory today, and to fill us in the
Spirit with his perfume. Come, let us hasten and share in the divine
blessing granted us by his venerated relics. Let us give glory to
Christ our God, who is truly wonderful among His saints, and who rests
in their midst.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR PRAISES = Venerable father, the whole world is filled with the
fame of your holy deeds; through them, you have received the recompense
of your labors in heaven. You destroyed hordes of demons and have
been united to the choirs of angels, whose pure lives you imitated.
By your boldness with Christ our God, ask peace for our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Comfort of the weak, consolation of the afflicted,
Virgin Mother of God, save the Christian fold, for you are peace for
the oppressed, rest for the shipwrecked, and the only protection for
believers.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = The all holy Mother of God saw You hanging on the Cross
and cried out to You in tears: <169>O my Son and my God, my beloved
Child, how can You suffer this unjust Passion?<170>
@AFTR STAVRO =
@DATE = November 8
@FEAST TITLE = Synaxis of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel and of
All the Heavenly Powers
@FEAST TITLE = (3rd Class)
@VES/ORTH = GREAT VESPERS
@FIRST KATHIS = First Kathisma: Blessed the man...
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
6.
Light, you cry out in rejoicing with all the Powers on high: <169>Holy
Father, Holy coeternal Son, Holy Spirit: You are one glory, one Kingdom,
one Essence, one God, and one Power!<170>
5.
of a blazing fire, and your holiness is awesome. In your bodiless
nature, you can pass rapidly all over the world, carrying out the
commands of the Creator. You are mighty in power, and you are a source
of healing power within the Church.
4.
and flaming fires Your attendants. O Word, You have made Michael,
the Chief Captain, the leader of the Archangels; he carries out Your
commands and cries aloud the thrice-holy hymn to Your glory, with
fear and reverence.
3.
light, O Gabriel. You radiate that light which you share to all the
ends of the earth. It was you who announced to us the great mystery
which was hidden from eternity: that the bodiless God would take flesh
from a Virgin's womb and come as Man to save all mankind.
2.
you radiate the divine illumination which ceaselessly flows forth
from the Godhead. Deliver us on earth from the darkness of the passions
as we joyfully praise you; enlighten us, O leader of the angelic hosts,
and intercede for our salvation.
1.
of heresy within the Church; heal the attacks of heretics; still the
storm of our many temptations; deliver from all danger those who honor
you with love and seek your protection, O intercessor for our souls.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Rejoice with us today, all you leaders of the angelic
hosts! The great Archangel Michael, your Captain and our guardian,
is present in the Church today and watches over us, sanctifying this
place. Let us therefore sing his praises and cry out to him: <169>Keep
us safe under the shelter of your wings, O great Archangel Michael!<170>
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Rejoice with us today, all you choirs of virgins,
for our Advocate and Mediator, our protectress and great refuge, the
Mother of God, watches over us and sanctifies this place. Let us therefore
sing her praises and cry out to her: <169>Keep us safe under the shelter
of your wings, O spotless Lady and Theotokos!<170>
@RUBRIC = Entrance. Readings: 1) Joshua 5:13-15 2) Judges 6:2,7,11-24
3) Daniel 10:1-21.
@BOLD TITLE = Lete
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR LETE = O Chief Captains of the spiritual Powers, standing forever
before the throne of the Master, intercede with the Lord that He grant
peace to the world and great mercy to our souls.
@AFTR LETE = Michael, the Chief Commander of the Powers on high, the
Captain of the hosts of God, has called us today to a solemn feast,
and he is always at our side to preserve us from every adversity coming
from the devil. Come, then, all you who love Christ and the feasts:
with pure minds let us gather a garland of virtues; with peaceful
hearts, let us celebrate the general feast of the Archangel! For he
always stands before God, singing the thrice-holy hymn and interceding
for the salvation of our souls!
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR LETE = O Chief Commanders of the bodiless spirits and intelligent
powers: you give light to the whole inhabited world by reflecting
the radiance of the threefold Sun of Glory; you sing the thrice-holy
hymn with never-silent voices. Therefore, intercede for the salvation
of our souls!
@AFTR LETE = With bodiless lips and spiritual mouths, the hosts of
angels offer an unceasing hymn to Your unapproachable Divinity, O
Lord. The pure intelligences and ministers of Your glory praise You,
O Master. With them, the bodiless Michael is first in rank among the
powers on high. Today, the Chief Commander of the Angels invites us
to sing to Your unapproachable glory the hymn of the incorporeal Powers,
O Lover of Mankind, that he may ceaselessly intercede for our souls.
@AFTR LETE = Hovering around the spiritual throne, O intelligent beings,
divine bodiless angels, you sing the thrice-holy hymn to God the Lord
with flaming lips: <169>Holy is God the Father, the unbegotten! Holy
Mighty One, the Lord, who has no beginning! Holy Immortal One, the
Spirit, one in Essence and glorified with the Father and the Son!<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Chief Commanders of the Angels, flashing with rays
from the divine Light, you illumine the ranks of bodiless powers!
Radiant as light, you shine from above the Fire of the unapproachable
Divinity upon the world. Therefore, with your flaming lips you ceaselessly
sing, <169>Holy, holy, holy are You. O our God, glory to You!<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Christ, Your Angels stand with reverence before
the throne of glory, constantly illumined by the outpouring of Your
Light: they are Your choir, singing in the heights, and the ministers
of Your will, sent out by Your command to enlighten our souls.
v.
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The Cherubim sing Your praises with fiery lips, O
Christ our God; and with never-silent, bodiless mouths, the choir
of Archangels glorifies You! Michael, the Chief Commander of the Powers
on high, ceaselessly offers a triumphal hymn to Your glory. For today
he shines upon us in a solemn feast, radiant with joy; although our
lips of clay are unworthy to take up the thrice-holy hymn, he invites
all things to be filled with your praise. Through him, grant Your
great mercy to the world.
v.
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today the Theotokos, the Temple that is to hold God,
is led into the Temple of the Lord; and Zechariah receives her. Today
the Holy of Holies rejoices greatly, and the choirs of Angels mystically
keep festival. With them, let us also celebrate the feast today, and
let us cry aloud with Gabriel: <169>Hail, O full of grace! The Lord
is with you, and He has great mercy!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
1.
raise our voices in praise to God, sitting on the throne of glory:
<169>Holy are You, O heavenly Father and King! Holy are You, O coeternal
Word! Holy are You, O Most Holy Spirit!<170>
v.
2.
and standing in glory before the awesome throne, O Archangel Michael,
you see mysteries beyond all understanding. We ask you to save us
in all danger, need, and temptation, by your intercession.
v.
3.
Michael, prince of the angelic hosts, minister of the divine Light,
witness and sharer in it, we ask you to save us who honor you each
year with true Faith, faithfully singing the praises of the Trinity,
O Chief Commander of the armies of heaven!
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR APOSTICA = As Captain of the hosts, champion and leader of Angels,
O Michael, deliver from all oppression, sorrow, sickness, and sin
those who sing your praises and entreat you. Since you are bodiless,
you behold God, who transcends all essence; and you are radiant with
the unapproachable Light of the Master's glory. In His love for man,
He took flesh for our sake from the Virgin, when He willed to save
mankind.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Captains and Leaders of the armies of heaven, unworthy
as we are, we beseech you without cease to surround us with your intercessions
and cover us beneath the shelter of the glory of your ethereal wings.
We bend our knee and cry out with perseverance: <169>Deliver us from
danger, O Princes of the Powers on High!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Resurrectional Theotokion
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The mystery which was hidden from eternity and unknown
to the angels has been revealed through you, O Theotokos, to those
on earth; for God took flesh in a union without commixture, and willingly
took up the Cross by which He elevated the first man and saved our
souls from death.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@RUBRIC = Use the Festal Format for Third Class Feasts.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR SESSIONL = O prince of the hosts of bodiless angels, standing
before God and gleaming with the light of heaven, delight and sanctification
of those who praise you with faith, deliver us from every persecution
of the enemy, and grant peace to all rulers and all lands.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O Theotokos, we your servants shall never be silent
in singing the heartfelt praises of your mercy, O Lady, crying aloud
and saying, <169>O most holy Virgin, make haste to deliver us from
visible and invisible enemies and from every threat, for you always
save us from all danger.<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = O most merciful Christ, the cherubim and the many-eyed
seraphim, the host of ministering archangels, with the virtues, thrones,
dominations, angels, powers, and principalities implore You, our Creator,
God, and Master, not to turn away from the prayers of a sinful people.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Hasten to stop the enemies by whom we were once taken
into bondage and who blaspheme against You as they threaten us, O
Christ our God. By Your Cross, confound those who fight against us,
that by the intercession of the Theotokos, they may come to know the
power of Orthodox Faith, O only Lover of Mankind!
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Polyeleos
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR SESSIONL = You two leaders of the heavenly angels, foremost
in awe, exalted on thrones of glory, Michael and Gabriel, princes
of the hosts and ministers of the Master, intercede along with all
the bodiless powers for the remission of our sins, so that we may
find mercy and grace on the day of judgement.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O full of grace, pure and blessed one, join the Powers
on high, the Archangels and all the bodiless hosts; ceaselessly implore
Him who was born from you, in His tender mercy, to grant us forgiveness
before the end, cleansing of our sins, and amendment of life, that
we may find mercy.
@BOLD TITLE = Prokimenon
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@PROKIM LEFT = You make spirits Your messengers, and flaming fires
Your attendants.
v.
@RUBRIC = Gospel. Psalm 50.
v.
@PROKIM INDEN = Through the intercession of the bodiless powers, O
Merciful One, wipe out the multitude of our sins.
v.
@PROKIM INDEN = Through the intercessions of the Theotokos, O Merciful
One, wipe out the multitude of our sins.
v.
abundance of Your tender mercies, wipe out my offense.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@BODY TXT IND = Hovering around the spiritual throne, O intelligent
beings, divine and bodiless angels, with flaming lips you sing the
thrice-holy hymn to God the Lord: <169>Holy is God the Father, the
unbegotten! Holy Mighty One, the Lord, who has no beginning! Holy
Immortal One, the Spirit, one in Essence and glorified with the Father
and the Son!<170>
@RUBRIC = Canons: We use three Canons, all in Tone 8: the first, the
Canon of Thanksgiving to the Theotokos; the second, to the Angels;
and the third, by Clement, also to the Angels.
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 1
@ODE TEXT = Let us sing to God, who brought His people across the
Red Sea, for He is gloriously triumphant.
v.
We sing your praises, most pure Virgin, who gave birth in ways past
nature to the everlasting and divine Word in the flesh.
The Virgin gave birth to You, O Christ, the life-bearing Vine who
flow with the wine of universal salvation.
O Theotokos, led up by you toward a blessedness that transcends our
understanding, the sons of Adam glorify you as is fitting and right.
@ODE 2 TEXT = O people, let us sing a song of victory to the Lord,
for He has sunk Pharaoh in the Red Sea, and He is gloriously triumphant!
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the troparia)
@CANON 2 INDNT = O faithful, let us all sing the praises of the uncreated
Trinity, who governs all the bodiless commanders of the choirs on
high, crying aloud, <169>Holy, holy, holy are You, O Mighty God!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = In the beginning, you created bodiless natures, O
Maker of the Angels, and they hover about Your throne, crying aloud
to You: <169>Holy, holy, holy are You, O Mighty God!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = Hail, O Gabriel, announcer of the Incarnation of
God! Hail, Michael, chief Captain of the bodiless hierarchies, who
cry aloud, <169>Holy, holy, holy are You, O Mighty God!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = Our first mother, Eve, subjected mankind to the curse
by the fall of man in former times; but you, O Virgin, Bride of God,
by bearing the Creator, have changed this curse into a blessing.
@ODE 3 TEXT = Long ago, the rod of Moses struck the sea and marked
it with a Cross, drowning Pharaoh and his army, while the children
of Israel crossed over on foot, singing a song to their saving God.
@CANON 3 INDNT = Forming a single choir, come, let us praise in song
the spiritual choirs of the bodiless powers who pray without ceasing
for our salvation and rejoice together at our repentance.
@CANON 3 INDNT = Today the commanders and chosen leaders of the angels,
the shining Chief Captains of the bodiless intelligences, come to
keep the feast of their own radiant memorial; and mankind, rejoicing
with them, offers up a hymn to the Trinity.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 3 INDNT = With joy, let men spiritually celebrate with the
angels: for Gabriel now once more announces the good news of the unity
of the Church and the overcoming of every heresy by the coming of
the memorial of the archangels.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
@CANON 3 INDNT = All-pure one, beyond nature you have brought forth,
by the power of the Holy Spirit, the Word of the Father, who came
to dwell in you, having two natures and two wills, yet in a form unchangeably
One.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = I shall open my mouth, and it shall be filled with
the Spirit, and I shall sing a hymn of praise to the Mother and Queen;
with great joy, I shall celebrate and sing of her entrance into the
Temple.
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 3
@ODE TEXT = You are the strength of those who run to You, O Lord;
You are the Light of those in darkness, and my spirit sings Your praises!
v.
O all-pure Virgin, by Your prayers give us help to push back the attacks
of adverse circumstances.
O Theotokos, who have given birth to Christ, the Giver of Life for
the world, you have repaired the fall of Eve.
Gird me with strength, O all-pure Virgin who have born God in the
flesh, the Power in person of the Father.
@ODE 2 TEXT = O Lord, Maker of the firmament of heaven and Builder
of the Church, establish me firmly in Your love. For You are the summit
of all our desires, the ground of the faithful, and the only Lover
of Mankind!
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the troparia)
@CANON 2 INDNT = Immortal One, You have established mighty Powers
to carry out Your holy will, and they always stand before You in the
heights.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Christ, hear the prayers of the messengers of Your
Incarnation and Your Resurrection, those commanders of the angels,
who make intercession for us.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Since You are compassionate, You have appointed angels
as guardians to mankind, and You have shown them to be ministers of
the salvation of Your servants, O Christ.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Bride of God, you have ineffably conceived the
Lord and Savior who delivers from danger all those who call upon you
in truth.
@ODE 3 TEXT = You are the strength of those who run to You, O Lord;
You are the Light of those in darkness, and my spirit sings Your praises!
@CANON 3 INDNT = As we praise you with faith, you appear to us as
the first among the angels and the reflected light of the Holy Trinity,
O Michael, the Commander.
@CANON 3 INDNT = Gabriel faithfully filled the whole world with the
radiance of the grace of God by proclaiming the descent of God in
the flesh.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
Holy Spirit.
@CANON 3 INDNT = O illustrious pair, chief leaders of the bodiless
powers, radiant as light, illumine with the light of God those who
faithfully celebrate your memorial.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
@CANON 3 INDNT = Isaiah sang of your conceiving which surpasses understanding,
O pure Virgin, and I also sing that I may be cleansed by it.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = O Mother of God, living and overflowing fountain,
strengthen those who sing your praise and who gather now to honor
you; and on this occasion of your solemn entrance into the Temple,
deem them worthy of the glorious crown of heaven.
@RUBRIC = Little Litany.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Let us on earth imitate, insofar as possible, the
holiness of the choirs of the bodiless angels appointed to sing praises,
mortifying all our fleshly cares, and asking them, since they are
champions and guardians of us who praise them, to be delivered from
every error of the invisible enemy that we may find mercy.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O pure Theotokos, we always thank and venerate you,
singing the praises of your maternity, O full of grace, and we cry
out without ceasing: <169>Since you are good, O Virgin, full of mercy,
save us and snatch us from the accusations of the devils at the hour
of judgement. Let not your servants be confounded!<170>
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 4
@ODE TEXT = O Lord, I have heard the mystery of Your dispensation;
I have perceived Your works, and I glorify Your divinity!
v.
O Theotokos, untilled field who have produced the life-giving sheaf
of wheat that has given life to the world, save us who sing to you.
O pure one, we who have been enlightened all acknowledge you as Theotokos,
for you have given birth to the sun of Justice, O ever-Virgin.
As the only sinless One, O God, grant forgiveness of our sins of ignorance,
and give peace to the world through the prayers of her who bore You.
@ODE 2 TEXT = You came mounted upon Your Apostles, as upon horseback,
O Lord, and You took their reins in Your hands; Your passing became
salvation for those who sing, <169>Glory to Your power, O Lord!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the troparia)
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Lover of Mankind, You mounted upon the angels as
though they were horses, and You took their reins in Your hands; Your
passing became salvation for those who sing, <169>Glory to Your power,
O Lord!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Lover of Mankind, Your glory covers the angels,
and the ends of the earth are filled with Your wondrous and divine
praise, O You who have no beginning. With them, let us cry aloud,
<169>Glory to Your power, O Lord!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = Filled with pity, O Christ, You go forth for the
salvation of Your people. You invite Your companions, the bodiless
Powers, and Your coming has become gladness for those who sing, <169>Glory
to Your power, O Lord!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = All-pure one, you are both Virgin and Mother, since
you bore Christ, who is both God and Man, to whom the ranks of the
angels cry out with reverence, <169>Glory to Your power, O Lord!<170>
@ODE 3 TEXT = Without leaving Your Father, You came to visit our poverty,
O Lord, my power and my strength, my God and my exceeding joy! With
Habakkuk the Prophet, I therefore cry out to You: <169>Glory to Your
power, O You who love mankind!<170>
@CANON 3 INDNT = In Jericho in days of old, Michael, the chief captain
of the hosts and great leader of the bodiless angels, appeared to
Joshua, son of Nun, as he was fighting. He helped him gain the victory,
fighting by his side; taking strength from him, the servant of the
Lord took the fort captured by the spear.
@CANON 3 INDNT = In former times, the captain of the bodiless powers
appeared to Zechariah, the priest, bringing him the good news of a
child. He was in truth Gabriel, the great and divine archangel. Therefore,
at the sound of the word, John was born, giving speech back to his
father.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 3 INDNT = Today, all the ends of the earth rejoice greatly
, keeping the wondrous feast of the memorial of Your angels, Michael
the divine and Gabriel the godly-minded. As the whole host of angels
rejoices, the world is saved by their protection.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
@CANON 3 INDNT = You are the only woman to remain pure after giving
birth. You are the only woman who nursed a child without the instrumentality
of man. You fed the Word of the Father, who through the Holy Spirit
took the form of a servant like ourselves, O Virgin Theotokos. Honoring
the divine likeness of His Form, we venerate it.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = He who sits in glory upon the throne of God, surrounded
with an ethereal cloud, Jesus, the supremely divine, came down, and
with His mighty hand, redeemed those who cried out to Him, <169>Glory
to Your power, O Christ!<170>
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 5
@ODE TEXT = Rising early in the morning, we call out to You, O Lord:
<169>Save us, for You are our God, and we know no other!<170>
v.
Calm the restless waves of my passions, O you who brought forth God,
our Pilot and our Lord.
The ranks of angels and the whole assembly of mankind worship your
Son, O pure Mother of God.
Mary, unwedded Mother of God, bring to nought the expectations of
our enemies and gladden the hearts of those who sing your praises.
@ODE 2 TEXT = Going ever astray in the darkness of sin, we call out
to You to enlighten us with the light of Your commandments, O Lord.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the troparia)
@CANON 2 INDNT = Ever carried upward by an unwavering longing for
You, O Christ, object of all desires, the hosts of angels glorify
You without ceasing.
@CANON 2 INDNT = By Your grace, You have established intelligent and
incorruptible angels as singers of Your majesty, having created them
according to Your image, O You who cannot be comprehended!
@CANON 2 INDNT = You do not incline toward that which is lower; You
have preserved Your ministers by their closeness to You, O Christ:
for, being a Fount of goodness, You do good to those who serve You
faithfully.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Only unwedded pure one, Virgin after childbirth,
O Mary, bring us to safe anchor in your harbor, directing us away
from dangers towards eternal salvation.
@ODE 3 TEXT = If You turn me away, the darkness will surely overcome
me in my wretchedness, O Light that never fades. Bring me back to
the path of Your commandments, O Lord, there to rejoice in their brilliant
light.
@CANON 3 INDNT = In days of old, the angels appeared at the crossways
to Balaam the sorcerer, who was not convinced by the ineffable and
divine miracles of God. He rebuked him severely; having shown him
an animal who was a reasonable being, he changed what he knew of nature.
@CANON 3 INDNT = An angel appeared to Peter, arrested in the hands
of Herod and waiting in prison; and he delivered him from bondage
and death. Therefore, let us all come and honor the wise archangels,
those divine guardians of souls.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 3 INDNT = O angels and archangels, divine hosts of God, by
your perpetual intercessions before Him, destroy the dissensions of
strife and the heresies of the Church and every stumbling block, and
keep us in peace.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
@CANON 3 INDNT = We know You, the God of creation, One in two natures
unconfused, with two operations and two wills, as being the Son of
God who took flesh from a woman whose image in icons we venerate.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = The whole universe is rapt in amazement at the sight
of your solemn entrance, for you went into the interior of the Temple
as an all-pure temple, establishing with safety all those who praise
you.
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 6
@ODE TEXT = Give me a robe of light, You who clothe Yourself with
light as with a garment, O most merciful Christ our God!
v.
O Theotokos, we the faithful proclaim you as the Temple and Tabernacle
of God, the living bridal chamber and the gate of heaven.
O Mary, Bride of God, the One who became your child is God, and He
destroyed the heathen idols; He is worshipped with the Father and
the Spirit.
O Theotokos, the Word of God manifested you to be a living ladder,
set up from earth to heaven, for through you, He came down to us.
@ODE 2 TEXT = O Lord, the prophet Jonah praying solitary in the whale
prefigured Your three days in the tomb, as he cried out, <169>Deliver
my life from the pit, O Jesus, Lord of Powers and my King!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the troparia)
@CANON 2 INDNT = As was truly fitting, Lord, by Your word, You brought
into being from nothingness the true nature of the heavenly immortal
armies, making them like flaming fires.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O bodiless angels, you have been the venerated messengers
of the praise of God, citizens of heaven and divine tabernacles, worthily
serving the Master in truth.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The intelligent ranks of the bodiless powers praise
and glorify You without ceasing as Maker and Creator of all things,
O Son of God without beginning.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O undefiled Virgin, to whom it has been granted to
hold in your arms Him who sits eternally with the Father in the heights:
grant that He give mercy to your servants.
@ODE 3 TEXT = From my many transgressions, I entreat You to cleanse
me, O Lord. Lead me up from the depth of sin, for to You do I call
from the anguish of my soul: <169>Hear me, O God of my salvation!<170>
@CANON 3 INDNT = Like fire, flame, and light are the bodiless angels,
who make the mind fly upward, away from the corruption of matter.
Let us, with our bodily lips, honor in reverent song these immaterial
beings.
@CANON 3 INDNT = O archangels, mortify the storm of the passions;
O commanders of the angels, who in fiery forms look upon the Trinity,
calm all turmoil concerning the Faith.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 3 INDNT = O archangels of God, leaders of the bodiless powers,
by your boldness, save us from all heresy, O Chief Captains Michael
and Gabriel!
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
@CANON 3 INDNT = You willingly appeared from the womb, made flesh
of a woman who knew not man. Without flesh, as God, You appeared bearing
flesh as man, O Christ, the likeness of whose appearance we honor
with faith.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = Come, all you people whose mind is upon God: come,
let us clap our hands and celebrate this divine and glorious feast
of the Mother of God! Let us send up glory to God who was born of
her.
@RUBRIC = Little Litany.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Princes of the leaders of God's armies, servants
of the divine glory, instructors of men and commanders of angels,
ask whatever is good for us, and bountiful mercy, O Princes of the
leaders of the angels.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = O Lover of Mankind, in the Scriptures You say that there
is joy in heaven over one man who repents. Therefore, lying in sin,
we make bold at all times to entreat You, the only sinless One, who
knows the hearts of men: take pity on us, unworthy as we are. You
are compassionate; send down Your compassion upon us, granting us
forgiveness, O Master. For we have as intercessors the Princes of
the leaders of the angels.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 8, we celebrate the Synaxis of the Angelic
Captains Michael and Gabriel and of all the heavenly, bodiless Powers.
@SYNAX INDENT = O Michael, I had wished to worthily sing a bodiless
hymn to praise you. It is on the eighth that we unreservedly glorify
the leaders of the heavenly hosts.
@SYNAX LEFT = For the Synaxis of the Nine Choirs, composed of Seraphim,
Cherubim, Thrones, Dominations, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, Archangels,
and Angels:
@SYNAX INDENT = Would even nine months be enough to sing the praises
of the glory of the nine choirs of angels?
@SYNAX LEFT = Through the protection of Your holy Angels, O Christ
our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 7
@ODE TEXT = The Children who came from Judea to Babylon long ago,
by faith in the Trinity trampled down the flames of the furnace beneath
their feet, singing, <169>Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!<170>
v.
Made flesh in a virginal womb, You appeared for our salvation. Seeing
that Your Mother is truly Theotokos, we the Orthodox cry out, <169>Blessed
are You, O God of our Fathers!<170>
O all-blameless Virgin, from the root of Jesse you have made a shoot
appear that blossomed as the fruit of salvation for those who cry
out to your Son with faith, <169>Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!<170>
O Wisdom of the Most High in person, through the Theotokos grant wisdom
and divine power to those who sing to You in faith, <169>Blessed are
You, O God of our Fathers!<170>
@ODE 2 TEXT = The Hebrew youths in the furnace walked upon the flames
as though they were dew as they sang out, <169>Blessed are You, O
God, forever!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the troparia)
@CANON 2 INDNT = O compassionate One, You manifested the immaterial
essence of Your angels to be lights filled with a light past speech;
and they cry out to You unceasingly, <169>Blessed are You, O God,
forever!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = Thousands of ministering angels stand without ceasing
before Him, unable to endure the sight of His face, and they raise
their cry, <169>Blessed are You, O God, forever!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = By the Word in person, You have created the multitude
of angels; sanctifying them by the Holy Spirit, You, O God, have taught
them to sing of the Holy Trinity forever!
@CANON 2 INDNT = We glorify an uncircumscribed Essence in three Persons:
the Father, the Son, and the Spirit, as we cry aloud, <169>Blessed
are You, O God, forever!<170>
@ODE 3 TEXT = The children who came from Judea to Babylon long ago,
by faith in the Trinity trampled down the flames of the furnace beneath
their feet, singing, <169>Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!<170>
@CANON 3 INDNT = Come, let us clap our hands with the bodiless angels
and the race of men on this divinely appointed day, commemorating
the wise archangels of Christ, and crying aloud, <169>Blessed are
You, O God of our Fathers!<170>
@CANON 3 INDNT = Since they were hospitable in former times, Abraham,
who saw God, and Lot welcomed angels and found an inheritance with
them, crying, <169>Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!<170>
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 3 INDNT = Angels appeared to the brave Manoah and to the wise
Tobit, giving them worthy rewards for the struggles of life; and an
angel once quenched the flames of the fiery furnace for the young
men.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
@CANON 3 INDNT = We proclaim You, Jesus, in two natures, but one Person,
who have taken from the Virgin the whole of nature, except sin. Representing
Your form, we venerate it.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = The three young men, divinely inspired, refused to
offer worship to creatures instead of to the Creator: they had the
courage to overcome the threatening fire, and sang out joyfully, <169>You
are worthy of all praise, O Lord, God of our Fathers: Blessed are
You!<170>
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 8
@ODE TEXT = The King of heaven, acclaimed in song by the hosts of
angels: bless Him and highly exalt Him throughout all the ages!
v.
Quench the burning, flamelike arrows of the adversary that assault
us, that we may sing your praises, O pure Virgin, throughout all the
ages.
O Virgin, beyond nature, you have born God the Word, the Creator and
Savior, and we sing your praises throughout all the ages.
The unapproachable Light made His dwelling in you, O Virgin, and showed
you to be a gold-gleaming lamp, shining throughout all the ages.
@ODE 2 TEXT = To the Lord who was glorified on the holy mountain <197>to
the Lord who revealed the virgin birth to Moses in a burning bush<197>sing
praise and glory forever.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the troparia)
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us imitate the life of the angels and let us
make our minds soar in the heights; and let us sing with them in the
air, praising the Lord and exalting Him above all forever.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The angels of the heavenly choir, exceedingly joyful,
who stand before the throne of glory beholding God at all times, praise
and exalt Him above all forever.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Trinity, You have made into a flame of immaterial
fire those who sing Your praises without ceasing in the heights; You
have made spirits Your messengers; we sing praise and glory to You
forever.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Theotokos, you have been counted worthy to carry
in your arms Him before whom thousands of angels and archangels stand
with reverence in the firmament of heaven. Intercede with Him for
those who glorify you, that they may be saved.
@ODE 3 TEXT = In his wrath against the servants of God, the tyrant
had his furnace fire stoked seven times. But when he saw a better
power saving them, he cried out: <169>Bless your Maker and Redeemer,
young men! Praise Him, priests! Exalt Him, O people, throughout all
the ages!<170>
@CANON 3 INDNT = Michael the Archangel appeared as chief of the angels;
but with him, the radiant messenger of grace and the holy pledger
of the Virgin's troth, Gabriel, immaterial Captain of the bodiless
hosts is also praised, he who worthily foreannounced joy to those
who cry aloud, <169>O people, exalt Christ throughout all the ages!<170>
@CANON 3 INDNT = Beholding in diverse forms the ranks of the angels,
Ezekiel cried aloud, <169>Among them stand present the six-winged
seraphim and the cherubim with many eyes, forming a circle.<170> With
them, he beheld the archangels, shining like amber, and exalting Christ
throughout all the ages.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
@CANON 3 INDNT = Revealing Your awesome second coming, Daniel foretold,
<169>When the thrones are set up, and the Ancient of Days takes His
seat, He shall lead in thousands of angels, present in awe and crying
with never-silent voices to the Trinity throughout all the ages!<170>
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
@CANON 3 INDNT = Of one Essence with the Father and the Spirit, the
Word appeared of His own will to us and took from the Virgin the same
form as ours, not confusing the one with the other in this awesome
union; for He himself was shown to be one and the same, in two natures
and one person. And we now venerate the image of His likeness.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = The Maternity of the Mother of God, prefigured by
the three young men in the furnace, saved them against the power of
the fire; but now that this maternity has come to pass, it brings
the whole universe together and makes it sing: <169>Praise the Lord,
all you His works, and exalt Him forever!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Canticle of Mary
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 9
@ODE TEXT = Pure Virgin, we who have been saved through you confess
you to be truly the Mother of God; and with the angelic hosts, we
magnify you.
v.
How full of joy, how full of gladness and of healing is the thought
of you to those who come to you for help, reverently declaring you
to be the Mother of God.
O full of grace, we sing to you our hymns of praise, and we bring
you our never-silent <169>Hail,<170> for from you all joy and exultation
spring.
O Mother of God, how beautiful is your ripened Fruit, which gives
not corruption but life to those who partake of it and magnify you
with faith.
@ODE 2 TEXT = You have gone above nature in conceiving the Cre<->ator
and Lord. You became a door of salvation for the world. We praise
you endlessly for this, O Theotokos.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the tro<->paria)
@CANON 2 INDNT = We magnify You, O Christ, who have ineffably united
the things of earth to those in heaven, and have made one Church of
angels and men.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O angels and archangels, thrones, dominions, principalities,
virtues and powers, O seraphim and cherubim: pray with the Theotokos
for the salvation of the world.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Michael, with Gabriel you are the advocate for all
mankind: visit those who honor with love the common feast of your
memorial, and save from all kinds of adverse circumstance those who
faithfully sing your praise.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Virgin, you bore the Word without beginning, and
have received Him made flesh in His wish to restore my nature. Therefore,
we magnify Him without ceasing.
@ODE 3 TEXT = The ends of the earth were astounded, while heaven was
awed, that God would come physically to mankind, and that your womb
became more spacious than the heavens. And so all ranks of angels
and men praise you, O Mother of God.
@CANON 3 INDNT = O Michael and Gabriel, chiefs of the bodiless angels,
you are champions for the salvation of those in sickness, those sailing
the seas, or those in need.
@CANON 3 INDNT = O Gabriel, rejoicing with the choirs of powers and
thrones, intercede for us with the Savior, as Chief Captain of the
angels and friend of God.
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 3 INDNT = As guardians of the world and the Church, O captains
of the hosts on high, pray to the Savior for us all!
@CANON 3 INDNT = v.
@CANON 3 INDNT = O Theotokos, we glorify you with one accord, that
we may be delivered from our passions and danger, and that our prayers
for good may be fulfilled.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = Let every human being take up a torch, and let him
dance with joy in his spirit! Let the whole immaterial creation celebrate
the entrance of the Theotokos and cry out, <169>Hail, glorious Mother
of God, ever-pure and ever-virgin!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O Archangel Michael, God the Creator has shown you
to be a champion and guide for mankind, a noble guardian. He has honored
you with glory in an ineffable manner, so that you may ceaselessly
chant to Him the triumphant thrice-holy hymn.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Radiantly reflecting the illuminations of the great
brightness of the Trinity, O Archangel, you pass like lightning across
the whole creation, fulfilling the divine commands, and guarding,
preserving, and protecting those who joyfully sing your praises.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
4.
a preserver and keeper of mankind on earth, we praise you in faith,
O Archangel Michael, and beg you to deliver us from every destructive
pain.
3.
2.
to come together and celebrate in their divine gathering a feast of
delight, singing together to God the thrice-holy praise.
1.
Michael, preserve us and shelter us our whole life long, at the hour
of death be present with us, and in your compassion help us all.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 5)
@AFTR PRAISES = Wherever your grace casts its shadow, O Michael, Captain
of the Angels, the power of Satan is driven out; for Lucifer, the
fallen morning star, cannot bear to dwell in your light. Therefore,
we ask you to extinguish the fiery darts he casts against us and to
deliver us from his stumbling blocks.
v.
@BODY TXT IND = O Virgin Theotokos, it is fitting for us believers
to bless you and glorify you as an unshakeable rampart, an impregnable
wall, the secure advocate and the refuge of our souls.
@RUBRIC = Great Doxology. Troparion of the Feast. Litanies and Dismissal.
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 9
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Onesiphoros and Porphyrios,
and of our Venerable Mother Matrona
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
6.
as you fought with all your might in the tribunal of the wicked. Covered
with wounds from the blows, you endured burning by fire over your
whole body. Thus the Prince of Life has granted you the crown of victory
with His life-giving hand.
5.
the Spirit, in the purple of your own blood you dyed the robe which
you bore to reign in the radiance of your splendor with our God, who
alone reigns throughout the ages. Ceaselessly entreat Him; implore
Him with fervor for our salvation.
4.
for the sake of the Life of All: when you were stretched out over
the burning coals, then dragged by horses, you joyfully reached a
good end before God. Thus we glorify both of you, who ceaselessly
pray for us, and we call you blessed.
@BOLD TITLE = For Matrona
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
3.
through the labors of asceticism, O Matrona, and you followed Christ.
You dwelt among pious hermits to quench the burning flames of the
passions under the rain of your tears, and to enkindle your ardent
love for the Creator.
2.
since you were a temple of the Spirit, thanks to the purity of your
soul. And toward the hardships and works of asceticism, you led a
whole army, a saved people, whom you presented to the Lord as an offering;
with them, we glorify you in faith.
1.
the instructions you laid down. Without regard for the weakness of
their flesh, they subdued the passions in the zeal of their spirit
in order to enter with you, O Matrona, into the heavenly chamber of
the Bridegroom to know joy at all times.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@BODY TXT IND = Your womb was able to hold the God whom no space can
contain, who for love of mankind became a man like us, taking our
human condition from you to divinize it. All-pure one, do not despise
my affliction, but make haste to receive me and save me, delivering
me from the persecution of the enemy.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@BODY TXT IND = Lord, seeing You nailed to the Cross, the Virgin,
Your Mother, was struck with wonder: <169>What do I see, O my beloved
Son? Is this Your reward from this ungrateful people whom You have
filled with Your blessings? They have turned away from Your Law, rather
than sing, `Glory to Your ineffable condescension, O Lord!'<170>
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord our God, Your holy martyrs Onesiphoros and
Porphyrios have deserved the crown of immortality on account of their
good fight. Armed with Your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors
and crushed Satan's dreadful might. Through their supplications, O
Christ God, save our souls.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Matrona
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = In you, O Mother Matrona, was restored the likeness
of God, for you carried Your cross and followed Christ. You taught
by your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away, and how to
value the soul for it is immortal. Wherefore your soul is forever
in happiness with the angels.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The two glorious martyrs, Onesiphoros and Porphyrios,
enlightened by the grace of the Holy Trinity, have completed their
struggle with perfect courage and destroyed their enemy's pride. Together
with the holy angels, they now intercede constantly with Christ God
for the sake of us all.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Matrona
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Venerable Matrona, you spent all your strength in
fasting and abstinence and devoted yourself to prayer. You have served
the Lord generously, and for Him you have left everything, spending
your life in devotion.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = O Christ, in Your love, open my mouth that I may sing
of this venerable woman and speak of her struggles: the manner in
which she left her husband and her possessions for love of You alone,
her Bridegroom, considering all things here below as passing. Then,
imprinting on herself the sign of the life-giving Cross, she overthrew
the foolish arrogance of the demons and made them disappear, spending
her life in devotion.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 9, we commemorate the holy martyrs Onesiphoros
and Porphyrios.
@SYNAX INDENT = With his squire Porphyrios, Onesiphoros was dragged
by the horses and made the adversary uncomfortable in the course;
for on the ninth, in their race toward God, they reached the goal
of heaven together.
@SYNAX LEFT = On this same day, we commemorate our venerable mother
Matrona.
@SYNAX INDENT = By her life in this world, the illustrious Matrona
earned an immortal crown in the next.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Let us venerate the martyrs who were outstanding in
their struggles, enlightening the world by their radiant witnessing:
the illustrious Onesiphoros and Porphyrios with him. For they intercede
for us faithful who celebrate their memory with love.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Having elevated your spirit beyond all earthly possessions,
O venerable mother, without turning back you followed the road of
the commandments of the Savior; thus we pray you to intercede for
us.
@AFTR EXAPOST = O Virgin, in their holy words, the divine prophets
foretold that you would be the Mother of God; knowing this, we the
faithful glorify you with love.
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos.
@DATE = November 10
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Apostles Olympos, Rhodion,
Sosipater, Tertios, Erastes, and Quartos, and of the Holy Martyr Orestes
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For the Apostles
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
6.
you drew to the pure Faith those whom the imposter held captive in
his nets. Intercede that our souls be given peace and great mercy.
5.
Rhodion, as well as Erastes and Quartos with them: they glorify Christ
our God, interceding that our souls be given peace and great mercy.
4.
by the blood of Him who willed to be born on earth and die on the
Cross. Intercede before Him that our souls be given peace and great
mercy.
@BOLD TITLE = For the Martyr
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
3.
crowned as a conqueror, you stand before the immortal Christ; intercede
before Him that our souls be given peace and great mercy.
2.
in the streams of your blood, you drown all the snares of the enemy,
but you irrigate the hearts of the faithful that they may grow in
Faith. Intercede now that our souls be given peace and great mercy.
1.
brightness of your struggles, O Orestes, splendid glory of martyrs!
You drove away the night of godlessness by the light of grace. Intercede
now that our souls be given peace and great mercy.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@BODY TXT IND = Hail, O pure Virgin, new wonder, holy tree planted
by God in the garden of Paradise! Hail, O you who put to flight the
dark demons! Hail, O double-edged sword who behead the enemy by your
wondrous maternity, calling us back to God from our exile, O all-holy,
spotless Virgin!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@BODY TXT IND = The Virgin Ewe, the spotless Queen, seeing her Lamb
on the Cross without form or beauty, cried out in tears: <169>Alas,
O my Son, where is Your gracious appearance, O sweet Child, and Your
radiant charm, O my beloved Son?<170>
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Apostles
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O holy apostles Olympos, Rhodion, Sosipater, Tertios,
Erastes, and Quartos, intercede with God all-merciful that He may
grant us the remission of our sins.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Orestes
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord our God, Your holy martyr Orestes has deserved
the crown of immortality on account of his good fight. Armed with
Your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors and crushed Satan's
dreadful might. Through his supplications, O Christ God, save our
souls.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Apostles
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The solemn feast of the apostles is today an occasion
for all those who celebrate it to obtain forgiveness of their sins.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 10, we commemorate the holy apostles Olympos,
Rhodion, Sosipater, Tertios, Erastes, and Quartos, who were among
the Seventy Disciples.
@SYNAX INDENT = With the glory of a hymn, my words give glory to six
disciples of the Word, who by their word delivered the nations from
irrational worship. On the tenth, they found eternal blessedness.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the holy martyr Orestes.
@SYNAX INDENT = For your feats of martyrdom, Orestes, receive your
reward, and let glory surround you!
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Let us celebrate Olympos, Tertios, Rhodion, and Sosi<->pater,
as is right, together with Erastes and Quartos, as apostles and disciples
of Christ: for they intercede for us who celebrate their sacred memory
on this feast.
@AFTR EXAPOST = You are truly the pure golden censer, the tabernacle
of the Trinity whom no space can contain, O Virgin Mary, for in you
the Father was well-pleased; in you the Son dwelt; and the Holy Spirit
has overshadowed you, making you the Mother of God.
@DATE = November 11
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Menas, Victor, Vincent,
and Stephanida; and of our Holy Father Theodore the Studite, Confessor
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For Menas
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
6.
you handed yourself over like a lamb to voluntary immolation. You
did not fear the rage of the magistrates or turn away from the torments
of the body. What endurance in your faithful struggles! By them you
brought down the pride of the enemy to the dust, O illustrious and
victorious martyr!
5.
Master before you, hung on the tree and branded by heated iron all
over your body, you did not deny the name of Christ, but rather turned
the eyes of your soul toward Him; thus you courageously endured your
bodily sufferings, O blessed martyr.
4.
the shadows of this world, the passing honors, the darkness of the
false gods, and the company of the wicked, in order to enroll in the
army of the chosen ones of the Lord. Then you truly showed yourself
invincible in your struggles for His sake, O holy martyr.
@BOLD TITLE = For Theodore
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
3.
from heaven surpassing all understanding, then shared them with your
friends. After multiplying the talent given you by the Lord, you heard
His divine voice calling you to the joy of the heavenly banquet. You
now share forever in glory before the throne of Christ, the King of
All.
2.
In becoming the cause of their salvation, you imitated the Savior.
You shone by your teachings: in you, souls have found their protector,
and by your prophecies, you were the mouthpiece of the Lord. Forever
in His presence now, intercede before Him and be mindful of us all.
1.
abundance, O divine preacher, and caused streams of teachings to flow
forth, O Theodore, champion of the Faith, unshakeable pillar supporting
Orthodoxy, energetic defender of the truth, exact rule for the monastic
life, O blessed father!
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Once again the yearly festival of those lights of
the universe, Menas, Victor, and Vincent, has shone upon the hearts
of believers, enlightened by the struggles they waged for love of
Christ as they took up their cross. Thus we wish to praise Christ
our God who has crowned them with glory and honor.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@BODY TXT IND = You are full of divine grace, O pure Virgin and Mother
of God, for you have given birth in the flesh to One of the Holy Trinity,
Christ, the Giver of Life, for the salvation of our souls.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing a lawless people nail You to the Cross, the
pure Virgin, Your Mother, was wounded in her heart as Simeon had foretold,
O Savior.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
1.
over your whole body, you did not deny the saving name of Christ nor
yield to the blandishments nor sacrifice to the idols. But, becoming
a pure and perfect sacrifice by your martyrdom, O Menas, you offered
yourself as a victim to the Lord.
v.
2.
your whole body with flames, cut off your limbs and beheaded you.
But in joy, O athlete of the Savior, illustrious Victor, you were
victorious over the enemy with the aid of the Spirit.
v.
all His good pleasure is upon them.
3.
as a martyr of many struggles, for you courageously handed yourself
over to torments and were torn apart, tied to two palm trees. But
you escaped and flew to God like a bird, leaving your body in the
hands of the fowler.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Venerable father, the whole world is filled with
the fame of your holy deeds; through them, you have received the recompense
of your labors in heaven. You destroyed hordes of demons and have
been united to the choirs of angels, whose pure lives you imitated.
By your boldness with Christ our God, ask peace for our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@BODY TXT IND = O Lady, lift up the eyes of my soul to you: do not
despise the poverty of my sighs, but at the hour when the world will
be judged by your Son, be a refuge, aid, and shelter for me.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@BODY TXT IND = O Christ, when Your Mother saw You crucified, she
cried out: <169>O my Son, what wondrous sight do I see? How can You,
the Giver of Life, die in the flesh, hanging on a Cross?<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord our God, Your holy martyrs, Menas, Victor,
Vincent, and Stephanida have deserved the crown of immortality on
account of their good fight. Armed with Your strength, they have vanquished
their persecutors and crushed Satan's dreadful might. Through their
supplications, O Christ God, save our souls!
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Theodore
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Guide of Orthodoxy, mirror of piety and exemplary
behavior, bright star of the universe and adornment of monks: you
enlightened us all by your teachings. O wise Theodore, inspired by
God and lyre of the Holy Spirit, intercede with Christ God that He
may save our souls.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Theodore
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You surrounded yourself with every ascetic practice
in order to protect your angelic life, and with the grace of God you
conquered and became like the angels. Together with them, O Theodore,
never cease to intercede with Christ God for the sake of us all.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Leaving the earthly armed forces, O victorious athlete
Menas, you were made a companion of the heavenly armies by Christ
our God, the unfading Crown of martyrs.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = This day, the memory of the martyrs brings us great joy,
showing us the courage with which they triumphed over the passions
and struggled with the enemy in the grace and joy of their confession.
Because of it, O feast-lovers, come, let us all rejoice in the celebration
of Menas the martyr, the better and more perfect of all joys. We find
the end of our passions as a gift given us by Christ our God, the
unfading Crown of martyrs.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 11, we commemorate the holy and great martyr
Menas.
@SYNAX INDENT = When Egypt gave birth, she had many wondrous children.
Menas is the most magnanimous proof of this: delivering his head to
the sword, he ascends to heaven. On the eleventh, holy Menas experienced
joy in his heart.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the holy martyr Victor.
@SYNAX INDENT = In the presence of the sword, Victor was a victorious
athlete, and he banished all fear from his heart.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the holy martyred deacon
Vincent.
@SYNAX INDENT = Cast into prison, Vincent endured it; but leaving
the prison of the flesh, he exulted as he was lifted up.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the holy woman martyr
Stephanida.
@SYNAX INDENT = Tied to two palm trees, Stephanida calmly flourished
like a palm tree in the midst of the martyrs.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate our venerable father
Theodore, Hegumen of the Studion.
@SYNAX INDENT = Renouncing this life, in which you lived well, O blessed
Theodore, you have been filled with an abundance of gifts.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = As the stars adorn the heavens, O compassionate Lord,
so Your Church is adorned by the holy martyrs Menas, Victor, Vincent,
and Stephanida: by their prayers, save us who sing to You, O God of
love.
@AFTR EXAPOST = O venerable father, for the sake of the holy icons
you have suffered affliction, mistreatment, and the pains of exile.
Thus, for your asceticism and the witness of your faith, you have
received a double crown from the hand of the Most High.
@AFTR EXAPOST = In you, O spotless Virgin, was revealed the way of
the Lord, and His steps lead mankind to the place where the angels
exult in choir with the assembly of the saints.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
all His good pleasure is upon them.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Come, O friends of the holy martyrs: let us venerate
the thrice-radiant choir of martyrs, Menas, Victor, and Vincent, for
in exchange for their blood, they have acquired eternal life in heaven.
In their patient perseverance, they opposed the author of all evil.
Not preferring perishable and passing treasures<197>and more than
any soldier on earth under an ephemeral power
soldiers of the living King, who ceaselessly calls to believers, <169>He
who believes in Me, even if he die, shall possess eternal life!<170>
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 1)
@AFTR APOSTICA = O faithful, come together: with spiritual hymns and
praises worthy of the martyrs, let us celebrate the champion of Christ,
the wondrous Menas. Marching into combat against invisible enemies
and fighting the good fight, he was worthy to receive the reward as
a conqueror. Exulting now forever in heaven with the angels, he obtains
peace and great mercy for the world.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@BODY TXT IND = O spotless Virgin, you alone have become the tabernacle
of the Light which reflects the eternal Father. Thus I come to you
and cry out, <169>Make the light of the virtues shine on my soul darkened
by the passions. On the day of judgement, grant a place to it in your
dwellings of light.<170>
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@BODY TXT IND = O Christ, seeing Your unjust immolation the Virgin
cried out in tears, <169>Most sweet Son, how unjustly You suffer!
How can You be suspended on a tree, when You suspend the earth over
the waters? Do not leave me, Your Mother and the Handmaid of the Lord,
alone, O Benefactor of the world and infinite Compassion!<170>
@DATE = November 12
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of our Father Among the Saints John the
Merciful, Patriarch of Alexandria; and of our Venerable Father Nilus
the Sinaite
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For John
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
6.
the mercy of the compassionate Lord, O venerable John, praiseworthy
father. Thus your memory truly remains throughout the ages, O holy
hierarch. By your prayers, save from all trial and affliction the
faithful who celebrate you.
5.
direction of your way of life, O wise father, He who sees in secret
placed you on the patriarchal throne, consecrating your perfection
with myrrh, O wondrous hierarch John, and entrusting to you the guidance
of the flock, which you led to the harbor of the divine will.
4.
His saving laws. Indeed, O blessed father, you loved God with all
your strength and your neighbor as yourself. You came to the aid of
the needy; thus we glorify you today.
@BOLD TITLE = For Nilus
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
3.
a channel carrying the graces of God to us, an abyss of knowledge,
a chalice of wisdom and doctrine, a diligent seeker, a skilled physician?
Intercede for the salvation of our souls.
2.
of immortal plants, a blessed gardener of the spiritual Paradise,
an observer of the laws given by God, a teacher of divinely inspired
doctrine, a skilled exegete, an able instructor? Intercede for the
salvation of our souls.
1.
the price for total wisdom, as a master of monks, their instructor,
a guide in virginity, knowledgeable in both ways of life because of
your experience in both. You are divine in your asceticism; countless
are your exploits. Intercede for the salvation of our souls.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@BODY TXT IND = For the sake of the needy, a fountain of mercy has
sprung up, overflowing with compassion: it is John, the great shepherd,
the light of Alexandria, the imitator of Jesus Christ. Come, O poor
in spirit, let us be filled as we imitate his joyous charity. In the
person of the poor, he welcomed Christ under his roof, as once did
Abraham. In the tenderness of his heart, he has gained blessedness
and the power to intercede that our souls be given peace and great
mercy.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Queen of the world, what can I offer you, wretched
as I am, if not the fountain of my tears and the confession of my
sins? Cast your compassionate gaze upon the weakness of my soul; scatter
the darkness of my passions and drive away the shadows covering your
servant, O Virgin.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = O Lord, seeing You stretched out on the Cross, Your
virginal Mother broke down in tears and cried out, <169>O Jesus, most
sweet Child, unapproachable Light of the Father who has no beginning,
why do You leave and abandon me? Hasten to be glorified, that those
who glorify Your divine Passion may inherit Your glory!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
1.
and support of the true Faith; model of ascetics and fasters, harbor
for those shipwrecked in this life, deliverance of those threatened
by danger; fortress, vigilant guardian, example having the strength
of law, ocean of compassion, who give joyfully and share abundantly
your alms with those who have recourse to you with faith. Intercede
before Christ our God that He grant our souls great mercy.
v.
2.
fountain of mercy, well of compassion, help of those beaten down by
affliction, protector of widows, physician visiting and healing the
sick, robe covering the unclothed, heavenly father correcting in due
time those who have the shame of falling. With your compassionate
gaze, look down upon us from on high and entreat Christ, the Lover
of mankind and our God, to grant our souls a share in His love and
great mercy.
v.
3.
shepherd of the wandering, correction for sinners, fragrant meadow,
myrrh-flask of the Spirit, inexhaustible river of blessings, tabernacle
of the Holy Trinity. Be mindful of those who sing to you: save them
from affliction, malady, perils and eternal punishment. Intercede
before Christ our God that He grant the world great mercy.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Venerable father, the whole world is filled with the
fame of your holy deeds; through them, you have received the recompense
of your labors in heaven. You destroyed hordes of demons and have
been united to the choirs of angels, whose pure lives you imitated.
By your boldness with Christ our God, ask peace for our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Mother of God, you are the true vine laden with
the Fruit of Life: wherefore we implore you, O Lady, to intercede
together with the Apostles and all the saints that we may obtain mercy
for our souls.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = O Christ, seeing You crucified, Your mother cried out
in maternal tears, <169>Sweet Child, my Son and my God, how can You
suffer Your infamous Passion?<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of John the Merciful
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = By your patience, you deserved your reward, O holy
father. You were assiduous in prayer, and you loved and helped the
poor. Blessed John the Merciful, intercede with Christ God that He
may save our souls.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Nilus
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your abundant tears made the wilderness sprout and
bloom, and your deep sighing made your labor fruitful a hundredfold.
You became a star shining over the world with miracles, Holy Father
Nilus. Pray to Christ God that He may save our souls.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Nilus
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You conquered the burning passions of your body and
calmed them through your asceticism, O blessed Nilus. Since you have
a special influence upon the Lord God, deliver us from danger that
we may cry out to you: <169>Hail, O father acclaimed by the whole
world!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = What mortal could describe your exploits, the immense
hardships of your life, the numerous deeds you accomplished, O blessed
Nilus, living on earth as a bodiless angel? Accept this hymn from
me: Hail, O river of the grace of God! Hail, O flood of the teachings
of Christ! Hail, O chalice of wisdom and knowledge! Hail, O garden
of immortality! Hail, O practical guide to divine revelation! Hail,
skilled interpreter of the law given by God! Hail, gardener of the
mystical Paradise! Hail, safeguard of virginity! Hail, delightful
lyre of the Holy Spirit! Hail, scythe cutting down the passions by
the roots! Hail, support of the just! Hail, protector of the faithful
here below! Hail, O father acclaimed by the whole world!
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of John
@AFTR TROP/KON = O John, most wise, by distributing all your possessions
to the poor, you gained the wealth of heaven; wherefore you were called
the Merciful One, and we honor you, celebrating the memory of your
proverbial charity.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Your beauty lies within your soul, O you who are endowed
with compassion and sincere charity, O holy John; you were able to
see true Mercy herself during the night, as a virgin radiantly adorned
with olive branches, who joyously spoke to you and said, <169>If you
wish to make me your companion and friend, I will lead you into the
presence of Christ our King!<170> You obeyed and did not lose your
desire. But you became a model of mercy by your proverbial charity.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 12, we commemorate our father among the
saints John the Almsgiver, Archbishop of Alexandria.
@SYNAX INDENT = Having given to the poor and distributed alms, John
is not a poor man in heaven, being close to Christ. On the twelfth,
without parsimony, God granted you an infinite reward for your alms,
O John.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate our venerable father
Nilus the Sinaite.
@SYNAX INDENT = The Nile bathes Egypt, and living even after his death,
Nilus bathes Christianity with his many teachings.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Let us sing of the hierarch John, the imitator of
the compassionate God, that through him we may obtain the remission
of our debts and the forgiveness of our sins.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Watering your soul with your tears, you made it fruitful,
O holy Nilus; intercede that we, too, may wipe away all impurity from
our souls as we sing to you in the fervor of our love.
@AFTR EXAPOST = O sweetness of the Angels, joy of the distressed,
helper of Christians, O Virgin and Mother of the Lord: be my support
and save me from eternal pain.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Venerable father, the whole world is filled with
the fame of your holy deeds; through them, you have received the recompense
of your labors in heaven. You destroyed hordes of demons and have
been united to the choirs of angels, whose pure lives you imitated.
By your boldness with Christ our God, ask peace for our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O spotless Virgin, entreat your Son to save all mankind,
for with our lips and our hearts we confess your divine maternity,
O Virgin and Mother!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = When the spotless Virgin saw You hanging on the Cross,
she cried out with motherly tears, <169>O my Son and my God, my beloved
Child, do not abandon the handmaid of the Lord!<170>
@DATE = November 13
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of our Father Among the Saints John Chrysostom,
Archbishop of Constantinople
@FEAST TITLE = (3rd Class)
@VES/ORTH = GREAT VESPERS
@FIRST KATHIS = First Kathisma: Blessed the man
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
6.
played by the breath of God, the inexhaustible font of teachings,
the pillar on which the Church finds support, the abyss of wisdom,
the spirit reaching up to the heavens, the golden chalice pouring
out streams of doctrine sweeter than honey, which give drink to the
whole creation in their flow.
5.
4.
never-fading star enlightening all that lives under the sun with the
rays of his bright teachings, that preacher of repentance, that golden
sponge drying up the tears of deadly despair, that dew refreshing
the hearts parched by sin.
3.
2.
the solitary swallow with the eloquent song, the rich treasury of
virtues, the unbreakable rock, the model for every believer, the imitator
of the martyrs, the equal to the holy angels: Chrysostom, who by his
life imitated the divine Apostles.
1.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = O thrice-holy and thrice-blessed Father, disciple
of Christ the High Priest and good shepherd in your own right, you
gave your own life for your flock. Now, O John Chrysostom, hierarch
of great renown, intercede constantly with Him to grant us great mercy.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Who would not call you blessed? Who would not sing
a hymn of praise to the glory of your giving birth without pain or
travail, O Virgin most holy? The Only-begotten Son Himself, begotten
of the Father before all ages, was made flesh out of you in a manner
that cannot be explained, O Woman most pure! And for our sake, He
who is God by nature assumed the nature of man. He is not divided
into two persons; He is understood to have two natures without commixture
or confusion. O noble and blessed Woman, intercede with Him that He
may have mercy on our souls.
@RUBRIC = Entrance. O Joyful light. Prokimenon of the day.
@RUBRIC = Readings: 1) Proverbs 10:7,6; 3:13-16; 8:6, 34-35, 4, 12,
14, 17, 5-9; 1:23; 15:4.
@RUBRIC = 2) Wisdom: Prov. 10:31-32: 11:4,7,19; 13:2,9; 8:17; 15:2;
14:33; 22:11; Eccl. 8:1; Wis. 6:13,12,14-16; 7:30; 8:2-4,7-9,17-18,21;
9:1-5,10-11,14.
@RUBRIC = 3) Wisdom: Prov. 29:2; Wis. 4:1,14; 6:11,17-18,21-23; 7:15-16,21-22,26-27,
29; 10:9-10,12; 7:30; 1:8; 2:1,10-17,19-22; 15:1; 16:13; Prov. 3:34.
@BOLD TITLE = Lete
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR LETE = O golden lamp and mouth, jewel of divine virtues, holy
John, temple of the Scriptures, instructing us, you were also the
pure treasure of the Spirit: the whole Church rejoices in your saving
words. You rejoice in the heavenly inheritance. By the boldness which
you possess before God, intercede for us, O holy father.
@AFTR LETE = O venerable Father, the grace of God was poured out on
your lips; thus the Lord has consecrated you as a hierarch for His
people, to guide His flock in justice and holiness. Girding yourself
with the sword of the powerful, you cut short the babbling of the
heretics. Now, O John Chrysostom, do not cease to intercede for peace
in the world and great mercy for our souls.
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR LETE = Acclaiming you, O holy Father, as an archbishop and good
shepherd, a preacher of repentance, instrument of grace, mouth of
golden words, we pray to you with our whole heart, O venerable Father.
By your prayers, obtain great mercy for our souls!
@AFTR LETE = Like a bride adorned in her jewels, the Church adorned
by your words cries out to you joyously, O John Chrysostom: <169>I
am filled by the delights of your outpourings, radiant with the gold
of your honey, and by your sweet exhortations, I have passed from
action to contemplation; I have been united to Christ, the mystic
Bridegroom, and I reign with Him.<170> Thus we all gather in memory
of you and sing, <169>Do not cease to intercede before the Lord on
our behalf for great mercy for our souls!<170>
@AFTR LETE = O Bishop, you have attained the highest philosophy, living
beyond the world above all that can be seen; you were a pure mirror
of God; constantly united to His radiance, you drew in light until
you reached your glorious end in the greatest Light. O Chrysostom,
intercede for our souls!
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR LETE = Your words, like rays of light, have bathed the whole
world, O blessed one, whose whole being was a fount of light. You
have adorned everything with the filigree of your discourses, working
your own teachings like a gold<->smith. After composing your golden
books, you took flight to heaven. Thus we cry out, <169>O Chrysostom,
river of gold, intercede before Christ our God for the salvation of
our souls!<170>
v.
@AFTR LETE = To the Queen of Cities belonged the glory and pride of
possessing the hierarch John as a royal adornment, a golden trumpet
sounding throughout the world to announce the doctrine of salvation.
She invites all to come together as a choir in divine hymns. In response,
then, let us say, <169>O Chrysostom, pray to Christ God to save our
souls!<170>
v.
@AFTR LETE = In you, O pure Mother of God, we possess the rampart,
fortress, and harbor of peace; thus we cry out to you from the storms
of this life, <169>Be our navigator and save us!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
1.
breath of God, tongue which in love for mankind preaches repentance
to us in its many forms, radiant spirit, golden-tongued swallow, dove
whose wings, according to the psalm, are tipped with gold in the splendor
of the virtues, river sparkling with flashes of light in its waters,
holy mouth announcing the love which our God has for mankind: implore
Christ to grant our souls great mercy!
v.
2.
support of the poor, nourisher of the hungry, staff for those who
are falling, wondrous physician of souls and their skillful healer,
strict interpreter of the highest theology, clear exegete of the inspired
Scriptures, straight rule and norm for action, double peak of wisdom
at whose summit works and contemplation come together: implore Christ
to grant our souls great mercy!
v.
right.
3.
you they have taken up their dwelling as though in a pure and holy
temple, for, having mastered the senses of your body, you have guarded
the purity of your spirit, like an inviolate treasure chamber, against
the entrance of the passions. Thus, O blessed father, having restored
the likeness to God in yourself, you presided as a hierarch in the
Church of Christ, praying to Him to grant the world great mercy.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = O Chrysostom, you were truly the golden-mouthed trumpet,
pouring out over the hearts of the faithful the treasure of the pure,
joyous notes of your teachings. And as the prophet David said, O venerable
father, their message has gone out to the limits of the universe,
making it radiant with light.
v.
@BODY TXT IND = Christ the Lord, my Maker and Savior, came out of
your pure womb in the likeness of me, O Woman without stain, and He
delivered Adam from the original curse. Therefore, O Woman all pure,
since you are the Mother of God and a true Virgin, we never tire of
calling to you with the salutation of the angel: <169>Hail, O Lady,
O our intercessor, our shield and the redemptress of our souls!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The grace that shines forth from your mouth like
a torch has enlightened the universe, bestowed treasures of generosity
upon the world, and shown us the eminence of humility. While you teach
us by your words, Father John Chrysostom, pray to the Word, Christ
our God, that He may save our souls.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Resurrectional Theotokion
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Good One, You were born of the Virgin and suffered
crucifixion for us. You destroyed death by Your death, and as God
You made manifest the Resurrection. Turn not away from those You have
made by Your hands. O Merciful One, show Your love to men and accept
as our intercessor the Mother of God, who gave birth to You. O our
Savior, save a desperate people!
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Having learned the wisdom which comes from on high,
and having received the grace of speaking well from God, you shone
like gold in the furnace before all; you preached the unity of the
Holy Trinity, and the arrows of your words pierced the vice of avarice.
Likewise, in your zeal you reprimanded the Empress for this trait,
and you were most unjustly exiled from your flock. O blessed John
Chrysostom, intercede before Christ our God that He grant remission
of sins to those who wholeheartedly celebrate your sacred memory.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = All-pure Virgin, behold my miserable, shipwrecked
soul without rudder in the storm of life and tempest of temptations,
visibly drowning under the burden of its sins and in danger of sinking
down to the depths of Hades. Make haste, O Mother of God: save it
by your fervent intercessions, O you who provide a harbor of peace,
that I may cry out to you in good faith: <169>Intercede before Christ
our God that He grant me the remission of my sins, for you are the
hope of your unworthy servant.<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR SESSIONL = You are the sacred vessel of the Church, the inviolate
treasure of piety, O holy hierarch, whose life shone with the absence
of passions. You are the source of mercy for those in need. O venerable
father, pray to Christ our God to grant our souls great mercy.
v.
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Chrysostom is a meadow of words inspired by the Scriptures,
one who shows us the way of repentance, one who endured the most varied
of trials. Let us venerate him as is right, for we faithful have been
formed by his doctrine. He intercedes before the Lord, that He may
have mercy on our souls.
v.
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
@AFTR SESSIONL = The great mystery of your divine maternity, the ineffable
manner of your conception, O ever-Virgin Mother, are truly known to
us. Your glory amazes our spirits and overwhelms our thoughts, and
it is given to all of us, O Mother of God, for the salvation of our
souls.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Polyeleos
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Watered by the golden stream of your discourses,
the Church refreshes all believers with the wealth of your waters
and heals the illnesses of those who sing to you, O blessed hierarch.
v.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O holy father, neither the unjust aversion of the
Synod nor the foolish hatred of the Empress could extinguish the flame
of your virtues, but since you were purified like gold in the furnace
of your trials, you now constantly intercede before the Holy Trinity
for which you have fought with all the fervor of your spirit.
v.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Make haste to bring us aid and protection; manifest
your mercy to your servants, O holy Virgin. Bring peace to the storm
of our vain thoughts; O Mother of God, lift up my soul which is fallen.
O Virgin, I know that you can do whatever you wish.
@BOLD TITLE = Prokimenon
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
My mouth speaks wisdom and my heart exults with understanding.
v.
@RUBRIC = Gospel. Psalm 50.
v.
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today all the hierarchs in their choirs exult spiritually,
celebrating with us your holy memory, O torch of the Church, Chrysostom,
holy father!
v.
Through the intercession of the Theotokos, O Merciful One, wipe out
the multitude of our sins.
v.
abundance of your tender mercies, wipe out my offense.
@TONE # = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Chrysostom, you were truly the golden-mouthed trumpet,
pouring out over the hearts of the faithful the treasure of the pure,
joyous notes of your teachings. And as the prophet David said, O venerable
father, their message has gone out to the limits of the universe,
making it radiant with light.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TROP/KON = From heaven you received divine grace, and from your
lips we all learn to worship One God in the Trinity, O blessed and
holy John Chrysostom. It is meet that we praise you, for you are indeed
a teacher revealing the things of God.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = I bow my knees before the Creator of the world; I stretch
out my hands to the Word who preceded all time, in search of eloquence
to sing of the venerable Father who magnified Him: for He who lives
forever said to the inspired prophet, <169>I glorify the faithful
who glorify Me!<170> He who once exalted Samuel has now glorified
the hierarch. Having multiplied his talent, he returned it to the
King who had entrusted it to him. Thus the Most High has most highly
exalted him. And unworthy as I am, I ask him to grant me the grace
of the words to reverently sing of him. For the whole universe, he
is indeed a teacher revealing the things of God.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 13, we commemorate our father among the
saints, John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople.
@SYNAX INDENT = Having closed his lips, holy John, the golden-mouthed,
has left us another mouth, speaking through his books. Your memory
is gilded in our hearts, O Chrysostom: on the thirteenth, we sing
of the treasures which you handed on.
@SYNAX LEFT = By the prayers of the golden-mouthed Preacher, O Christ
our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Your words are golden rays, making the Church of Christ
shine with joy, and you bring joy to the souls of the faithful as
they glorify your sacred memory, O father Chrysostom. For, in preaching
repentance, you have shown mankind the way of salvation.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Holy John is the herald who loudly announces repentance,
the treasure of the needy, the mouth of the Church, the eloquent preacher
with golden words, the exegete of the Scriptures: let us all acclaim
him as the pillar of our Faith.
@AFTR EXAPOST = O Lady, Virgin and spotless Queen, with the wondrous
Chrysostom, pray to your Son that those who sing to your name may
be delivered from all trial and temptation, and be judged worthy of
the eternal goods, since you can do whatever you wish.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
4.
enriching needy hearts and driving away the shadows of the passions
and the cruel winter of greed. Thus we call you blessed, O John Chrysostom,
as is fitting, venerating your relics as a source of sanctification.
3.
the river flowing with waves of divine teachings, the heavenly spirit,
the golden mouth which speaks to us of God, the preacher of repentance,
the security for sinners, the brilliant flaming torch, the man of
heaven.
2.
of your words, O holy John, radiant star, bright beacon, and lighthouse
for sailors in the storm of this life, inviting them by grace to the
harbor of salvation, O mouth of golden words, who intercede for our
souls.
1.
the bitterness of affliction and exile, where you merited a blessed
end as a generous athlete who had cast down the treacherous enemy.
Thus, Christ has crowned you with the laurel wreath of victory, O
John Chrysostom, who intercede for our souls.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR PRAISES = Your holy teaching, your rich discourses, have adorned
the Church of Christ; to it, you have confided as a spiritual treasure
the words which God entrusted to you. Likewise, it offers you, on
your sacred memorial, a crown of immortal flowers which it weaves
as it sings, <169>Venerable Father, holy John, whose soul and mouth
are as precious as gold: by the boldness which you possess before
God, intercede for our souls!<170>
v.
@AFTR PRAISES = O Lady, receive the prayers of your servants; deliver
us from all danger and all affliction.
@RUBRIC = Great Doxology. Troparion of the Saint.
@DATE = November 14
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy and Illustrious Apostle Philip,
and of our Father among the Saints Gregory Palamas, Archbishop of
Thessalonica
@FEAST TITLE = (4th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@RUBRIC = If, for some reason, Gregory Palamas is not celebrated,
we use six stichera of the Apostle Philip, doubling the three given
below:
@BOLD TITLE = For Philip
@TONE # = (Tone 6)
6.
one, and contemplation the object of action for love of God, you asked
Christ to show you the ineffable glory of the Father. Indeed, all
nature endowed with reason longs for the manifestation of God. O glorious
Apostle, you immediately found the object of your desire when you
accepted the Son as the Image of the Father. By the confidence you
have before Him, pray to Him for our souls.
5.
to see our God. You saw Him clearly as you received the Image resembling
Him: for to know the Son is to know the Father, whose manifestation
He is. We know that They are of the same Essence, for They have shown
Themselves to be identical in everything: Kingship, power, and glory;
and we prostrate before Them.
4.
direction of the Holy Spirit. Singing the divine Gospel of the Savior
in this world, your words of fire consumed all error like chaff and
dry wood. O holy Apostle Philip, you preached Christ as Lord and Master
of all to the whole world.
@BOLD TITLE = For Gregory Palamas
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
3.
He is the trumpet of theology, the herald of the fire of grace, the
honored vessel of the Holy Spirit, the river of wisdom, the lampstand
of the light, the shining star that makes glorious the whole creation.
2.
bishop? He is the champion of true devotion and the adversary of godlessness,
the fervent protector of the Faith, the great guide and teacher, the
well-tuned harp of the spirit, the golden tongue, the fountain that
flows with waters of healing for the faithful: Gregory the great and
marvelous.
1.
He is the teacher of the Church, the herald of the light of God, the
initiate of the heavenly mysteries of the Trinity, the chief adornment
of the monastic life, renowned alike in action and in contemplation,
the glory of Thessalonica. Now he dwells in heaven with the great
and glorious martyr Demetrios, whose relics flow with holy oil.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Illumined by the radiance of the great Light, O Philip,
you shone as a lamp for the world. Having sought the Father of Lights
in the Son, you have found Him, for in His Light, we see Light. He
is the true Image, showing by His likeness the true model. O holy
Apostle, entreat Him to save those who were marked by the divine seal
of His blood.
v.
@BODY TXT IND = Who would not call you blessed? Who would not sing
a hymn of praise to the glory of your giving birth without pain or
travail, O Virgin most holy? The Only-begotten Son Himself, begotten
of the Father before all ages, was made flesh out of you in a manner
that cannot be explained, O Woman most pure! And for our sake, He
who is God by nature assumed the nature of man. He is not divided
in two persons; He is understood to have two natures without commixture
or confusion. O noble and blessed Woman, intercede with Him that He
may have mercy on our souls.
@RUBRIC = There is no Entrance.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
1.
a fisher of men by divine election. With the net of his words, he
has caught the nations, pulling up the world by the hook of the Cross.
What a wondrous catch is presented to Christ by His divine servant,
whose sacred memory we celebrate today!
v.
to the limits of the universe.
2.
Philip has gone forth without fear. By Faith, he has made lambs of
the wild beasts. He has transformed the world by the intervention
of God. Ineffable is the power which is manifested in works through
Faith. By his prayers, save our souls, O only compassionate One.
v.
forth the work of His hands.
3.
as a fountain, offering life to those who drink of his wisdom. From
him arise streams of teachings, and miracles are the waters we drink,
amazing wonders which manifest the worker whose memory we celebrate
today in faith.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Your tongue, watchful in teaching, rings in the ears
of our hearts and awakens the souls of the slothful. Your words, inspired
by God, are a ladder leading us from earth to heaven; O Gregory, wonder
of Thessalonica, pray to Christ without ceasing, that we who honor
you may be illumined with the divine light.
v.
@AFTR APOSTICA = O Virgin who knew not carnal union, O you who ineffably
carried God in the flesh, O Mother of almighty God, O Woman without
stain: accept the prayers of your servants. O you who obtain for all
of us the cleansing of our sins: accept now our supplications and
intercede for the salvation of us all.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Philip
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O holy apostle Philip, intercede with God all-merciful
that He grant us the remission of our sins.
v.
@RUBRIC = If Palamas is celebrated:
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@BODY TXT IND = O Gregory the wonderworker, light of Orthodoxy, support
and teacher of the Church, glory of monks and invincible protector
of theologians, pride of Thessalonica and preacher of grace: pray
without ceasing for the salvation of our souls!
@BODY TXT IND = v.
@BODY TXT IND = O Good One, You were born of the Virgin and suffered
crucifixion for us. You destroyed death by Your death, and as God
You made manifest the Resurrection. Turn not away from those You have
made by Your hands. O Merciful One, show Your love to men, and accept
as our intercessor the Mother of God, who gave birth to You. O our
Savior, save a desperate people
@RUBRIC = If Palamas is not celebrated, we continue:
v.
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = We praise you, O Virgin Theotokos, mediatrix of our
salvation, for your Son our God, who suffered on the Cross in the
flesh which was taken from you, redeemed us from corruption, for He
is the Lover of Mankind!
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Apostle and eyewitness of Christ, blessed Philip,
you were the witness and friend of our God: by your prayers, deliver
from the grasp of sin all the faithful who celebrate your sacred memory,
and permit them to rejoice in heaven.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = We sing of you, O Virgin Mother of God, as the unconsumed
bush seen by Moses, the divine mountain and holy cloud, the table
of God and palace of the great King, the sealed Gate of the Light.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Disciple of the Word, preacher of truth, you were
sent as a ray to enlighten those who sat in the shadow of evil, and
to dispel from the earth the mist of godlessness, in order to make
all believers sons of light and of the day, O holy apostle Philip,
who have seen Christ.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O spotless Virgin, you are the protection of the
faithful who place their unfailing hope in you: deliver us from all
adversity, pray to your Son with His apostles, and save from all evil
those who sing to you.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Gregory Palamas
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Holy and divine instrument of wisdom, joyful trumpet
of theology, with one accord we sing your praises, O Gregory inspired
by God. But since you stand now in mind and spirit before the Original
Mind, guide our minds to Him, O father, that we may cry to you: <169>Hail,
preacher of grace!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = You appeared on earth as an angelic messenger, proclaiming
to mortal men the mysteries of God. Endowed with a human mind and
flesh, and yet speaking with the voice of the bodiless powers, you
have filled us with amazement, O saint inspired by God, and made us
cry aloud to you: <169>Hail, for through you the darkness is dispelled!
Hail, for through you the light has returned! Hail, messenger of the
uncreated Godhead! Hail, reprover of created folly! Hail, height impossible
to climb, that tells us of God's nature! Hail, depth hard to scan,
that speaks of His energy! Hail, for you have rightly proclaimed His
glory! Hail, for you have denounced the opinion of evildoers! Hail,
torch that shows us the Sun! Hail, cup filled with nectar! Hail, for
through you the truth has shone forth! Hail, preacher of grace!
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Philip
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord, Your disciple Philip, inspired by God, Your
beloved one and the imitator of Your Passion, has preached Your divinity
to the world. Through his intercessions and for the sake of the Mother
of God, guard Your Church and Your flock from their enemies, O most
merciful Christ our God!
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Grant me a river of eloquence, O Lord who rule the nature
of the waters. O Master whose word sustains the earth, sustain also
my heart. You who are arrayed with light as with a cloak, give light
to my spirit, that I may speak worthily and sing fittingly of Your
disciple, O most merciful Christ our God.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 14, we commemorate the holy and illustrious
Apostle Philip, a member of the first choir of the twelve.
@SYNAX INDENT = Hung by his feet which You had washed, O God our Savior,
the disciple Philip rejoices. The Apostle shares in the sufferings
of Christ on the fourteenth and leaves this world with his feet above
his head.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate our holy father Gregory,
Archbishop of Thessalonica, who is known as Palamas.
@SYNAX INDENT = Truly the great preacher of the wondrous and brilliant
Light has been led now by the Source of Light into the unsetting Light.
@SYNAX LEFT = By the prayers of Your saints, O our God, take pity
on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Turned upside down on the Cross by your feet which
had announced the good news, you joyfully ascended the road to heaven.
Forever in the presence of the Holy Trinity, you see the Son and the
Holy Spirit in the Father. Thus we celebrate your sacred memory with
love on this feast, O Philip.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Holy Apostle who have received the radiance of the
Holy Spirit and who have enlightened the whole world through the message
of your words, intercede now that the Savior may save us!
@RUBRIC = If Palamas is celebrated:
@AFTR EXAPOST = Hail, glory of the fathers, voice of the theologians,
tabernacle of inward stillness, dwelling-place of wisdom, greatest
of teachers, deep ocean of the Word! Hail, O you who practiced the
virtues of the active life and ascended to the height of contemplation!
Hail, healer of man's sickness! Hail, shrine of the Spirit! Hail,
father who though dead are still alive!
@AFTR EXAPOST = Addressing your prayer on our behalf to your Son in
company with Philip, the divine preacher, O all-holy Virgin, save
your faithful servants from all grief.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
4.
O blessed Apostle, to fill it with heavenly teachings. Instructed
by it, we glorify the Son as God, of one Essence with the Father and
the Spirit.
3.
2.
and the holy Church its radiant lamp, O illustrious and thrice-blessed
Philip. Rejoicing in your light, our souls are enlightened; and by
your prayers, we are delivered from all danger.
1.
deserved to wear the crown of victory, O holy Philip. Entering with
it into the Kingdom on high, you are seated as an Apostle with Christ,
and you intercede for our salvation.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR PRAISES = O holy apostle Philip, in this world your lips were
like a chalice of myrrh, offering the faithful a life-giving refreshment.
Having made action the stairway to divine contemplation, you became
a companion of Christ. In Him, you have multiplied the children of
the barren Church of the Gentiles, which you adorned with your teachings.
Intercede now that it may be delivered from the constraint of misfortune,
for you can do it in God, since you are so close to Him.
v.
@AFTR PRAISES = All my hope I place in you, O Theotokos; keep me under
the wings of your protection.
@RUBRIC = Great Doxology.
@RUBRIC =
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 15
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Gourias, Samonas,
and Habib; Beginning of the Christmas Fast
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
4.
Gourias now form a choir with all believers and exult with us who
share their common joy. For God grants the souls of His witnesses
the power to see what occurs here below.
3.
fought valiantly, O three martyrs, equal in number to the divine Trinity,
Samonas, Gourias, and Habib, you now enjoy the fruit of your labors:
the joy and eternal blessedness which Christ has given you. Entreat
Him to save our souls.
2.
an end to the polytheism of the pagans and their foolish wisdom, by
the power of the Cross, which passed for folly in their eyes. Strengthened
by it, you courageously endured the cruel blows of your punishments.
1.
waves, the tranquil life, the harbor of peace, you have acquired the
impassible dwelling, its eternal changelessness, as you received from
our God the reward merited by your pains, O blessed Athletes, and
the prize for your exploits.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@BODY TXT IND = Edessa rejoices in possessing as a treasure the relics
of the martyrs Gourias, Samonas, and Habib. Calling together the people
who love Christ, it says, <169>Come, O friends of the martyrs: shine
with joy on their memorial! Come, O feast lovers, shine: come and
see these heavenly luminaries beaming on earth! Come, hear what death
these noble diamonds have suffered for that life which has no end.<170>
These sincere holy ones saved a young girl who was cast alive into
a grave, and handed over to perdition as a pitiless murderer the sordid
man who violated his promises to them. They ceaselessly implore the
All-Holy Trinity that the faithful who celebrate their sacred memory
be delivered from mortal trials and all danger.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Queen of the world, what can I offer you, wretched
as I am, if not the fount of my tears and the confession of my sins?
Cast your compassionate regard on the weakness of my soul, scatter
the cloud of my passions, drive away the shadows covering me, I pray
you, O Virgin, for I am your servant.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = O Lord, seeing You stretched out on the wood of the
Cross, the Virgin Mother broke out in tears and cried, <169>Jesus,
sweet Child, unapproachable light of the Father who had no beginning,
why do You leave and abandon me? Hasten to be glorified, that those
who glorify Your divine Passion may share in Your glory.<170>
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos, or the following:
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
1.
one is revealed to the world as most worthy of admiration: from the
West, you have brought back the young girl unjustly buried, and you
placed her in her mother's arms, safe and sound again.
v.
2.
a rich grace the blows given by the enemy, O blessed confessors. Having
renounced the satisfaction of earthly pleasures, preferring the enjoyment
of heavenly delights, you did not turn away in the face of cruel torments.
v.
all His good pleasure is upon them.
3.
and sublime Gourias in company with the illustrious Samonas and the
holy deacon Habib, for all the afflicted have them as fervent defenders.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Come, O friends of the martyrs; with hymns, let us
venerate Gourias, Habib, and Samonas: for these champions of Christ
work wondrous miracles. By virtue of a vow, they did not refuse to
return a young girl to her homeland, but hearing her request, they
saved her from the unjust Goth whom they had protected. By their prayers,
O Christ our God, in Your goodness and love for mankind, save our
souls!
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = All-holy Bride of God, you alone have carried in your
womb, without its being too confined, the God whom no space can contain,
when He was made man in His goodness. Thus I entreat you to drive
away the evils that surround me on all sides, that following the straight
and narrow, I may find the way that leads to life.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = All-pure one, when you saw the Creator of all suffer
countless insults and sent to the Cross, you wept and said, <169>O
Lord, all-worthy of our hymns, O my Son and my God, how can You suffer
dishonor in Your flesh in Your desire to honor Your creation? O Lover
of Mankind, I glorify Your infinite condescension and mercy!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You granted us the miracles of Your holy martyrs
Gourias, Samonas, and Habib as a stronghold and protection. Through
their prayers, strengthen our country in every good deed, O Christ
God, for You alone are merciful and the Lover of Mankind.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = After receiving special grace from on high, you became
the protectors of those threatened with danger, O wise Gourias and
Samonas, worthy of all praise. You saved a maiden from cruel death,
O holy ones: you are indeed the glory of Edessa and the joy of the
world!
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = O Jesus, Source of Life, snatch me from slavery to the
enemy; I have recourse as a suppliant to the prayers of your victorious
Athletes, that freed from the passions of my soul and body, I may
sing of the promptness of their help. Their aid could save from death
the one who called out from the interior of the tomb, the young girl
whom her mother had entrusted to their protection as she cried out,
<169>O illustrious martyrs, you are indeed the glory of Edessa and
the joy of the world!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 15, we commemorate the holy martyrs and
confessors, Gourias, Samonas, and Habib.
@SYNAX INDENT = Samonas and Gourias bowed their heads to the sword;
Habib was offered to the Lord as a holocaust. Enduring in joy both
the fire and the iron, the three friends confessed the triune God
on the fifteenth.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = As you once saved from a frightening death the young
girl enclosed in a tomb, and delivered the unjust Goth to death, deliver
me also from my rebellious passions, that I may celebrate your light-bearing
memory with joy, O holy martyrs.
@AFTR EXAPOST = In His love, the uncircumscribed God who fills the
universe with His divinity was ineffably incarnate in you, O Virgin,
to correct the ancient fall as He became the new Adam; as He is your
Son, pray to him for us, O divine Mother.
@AFTR EXAPOST =
@AFTR EXAPOST =
@AFTR EXAPOST =
@AFTR EXAPOST =
@AFTR EXAPOST =
@DATE = November 16
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy and Illustrious Apostle Matthew
the Evangelist
@FEAST TITLE = (4th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to you I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
6.
your sentiments toward Him, O holy Apostle, and separated you from
the world, delivering you from iniquity, O Matthew. Then He made you
a lamp to enlighten the ends of the earth, and at His command, you
shone forth. Thus, you were worthy to write His divine Gospel. Pray
to Him to save and enlighten our souls.
5.
4.
to be His disciple, O Matthew, and urged you to follow Him in order
to share in the kingdom He promised. Then, O blessed one, you left
all things, renouncing trouble and confusion, and you followed Him
with a sure step. Now, O eyewitness of our God, you are filled with
the ineffable vision of Him. Pray to Him to save and enlighten our
souls.
3.
rolling over the earth to crush the ways of the wicked. O blessed
one, the Incarnate Word has made you a light for the world, a herald
of justice and truth, radiant with the splendor flowing from the triple
Sun. Pray to Him to save and enlighten our souls.
2.
scatter the darkness of ignorance and error, at His call, His life-giving
command, you followed Him as a servant of the divine Wisdom. You kept
the law of God and were an ineffable light, a dwelling-place of Christ,
for the Church, O Matthew. Pray to Him to save and enlighten our souls.
1.
of all praise, all-wise Matthew, who received the visit of the Paraclete
when He illumined Your whole being. Thus you filled with wonder the
spirits of those who heard you speak when you announced to the people
the magnificence of the Almighty One. Your message, inspired by God,
has gone out through all the world. Pray to Him to save and enlighten
our souls.
v.
@BODY TXT IND = Christ called you to the school of heaven, and by
divine inspiration, you followed Him with your whole heart, instantly
leaving all earthly occupations. Taking by obedience the dispositions
in keeping with the Kingdom on high, you renounced all the vainglory
and greed of a publican, O Matthew, and became an evangelist, a light
for darkened hearts. You lead erring sheep to salvation as an always
fervent intercessor for the world before God, and a saving protector
of the faithful who glorify you.
v.
@BODY TXT IND = O blessed one, the Creator of all dwelt bodily in
your womb in order to refashion mankind, fallen and misled by the
serpent. You have ineffably given birth to God the Word, and by your
childbearing, you have delivered human nature, grown old, from corruption.
Thus we celebrate your grace, O pure, unwedded Virgin. By it, protect
and save the faithful who glorify you.
@RUBRIC = There is no Entrance.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
1.
to know God. You have banished from the earth the assemblies of evil,
O disciple all-worthy of our praise, and have directed the hearts
of the faithful toward unity. You intercede forever that the believers
who celebrate your venerable memory may be delivered from deadly danger.
v.
to the limits of the universe.
2.
error by Him who armed you with the tongue of fire of the Spirit,
Christ our God, from whom you received grace as a radiant prize. Intercede
before Him that the believers who celebrate your venerable memory
may be delivered from deadly danger.
v.
forth the work of His hands.
3.
you have known the inexhaustible treasures, from which you draw the
abundant grace which you distribute to all through your Gospel. Now
you intercede that the believers who celebrate your venerable memory
may be delivered from deadly danger.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Soaring like an eagle on high, you have wondrously
ascended from the depths of infamy to the heights of the virtues,
O illustrious Apostle Matthew. You have followed in the footsteps
of Him who covered the heavens with His praise, and who covered the
earth with His knowledge, Christ. In all things you showed yourself
to be His imitator, announcing the Gospel of peace, life, and salvation
to the faithful open to His divine precepts. Guide us along the way
that we may be acceptable to the Creator and call you blessed.
v.
@AFTR APOSTICA = Christ the Lord, my Maker and Savior, came out of
your pure womb in the likeness of me, O Woman without stain, and He
delivered Adam from the original curse. Therefore, O Woman all pure,
since you are the Mother of God and a true Virgin, we never tire of
calling to you with the salutation of the angel: <169>Hail, O Lady,
O our intercessor, our shield and the redemptress of our souls!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O holy Apostle Matthew the Evangelist, intercede
with God all-merciful that He may grant us the remission of our sins.
@BOLD TITLE = or Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You arose from the tax collector's booth and followed
Christ in all earnestness. He made you a blessing for men, a chosen
Apostle and Evangelist for the world. We honor your sacred memory
for all of this, and we ask you to entreat God for the remission of
our sins.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR TROP/KON = We praise you, O Virgin Theotokos, mediatrix of our
salvation, for your Son our God, who suffered on the Cross in the
flesh which was taken from you, redeemed us from corruption, for He
is the Lover of Mankind!
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR SESSIONL = The first to redact the Gospel of Christ, thus enlightening
all creation, Matthew, the all-wise disciple, the excellent initiate,
now honored by sacred hymns, obtains the remission of sins for the
faithful who wholeheartedly venerate him.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = All of us know that you are the Theotokos, who remained
a virgin after giving birth. We confess this as we seek refuge in
your goodness, for we sinners have you as an advocate. In temptations,
we have you for salvation, O only pure and sinless one.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Radiant in the works of true Faith, you have eclipsed
all error. Without being vanquished, you preached the Gospel of Christ
to all. You have wondrously adorned the Church. O holy Apostle Matthew,
pray to Christ our God to grant our souls great mercy.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = He was never separated from the divine nature as
He took flesh in your womb. But becoming man, He remained God, the
Lord who preserved your spotless virginity after as well as before
childbirth, O Mother. Pray to Him ceaselessly to grant us great mercy.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = When you renounced the instruments of a tax-collector
to choose those of justice, you became an excellent merchant, rich
in divine wisdom. You preached the word of truth, and you exhorted
us to be always ready by your vivid description of the Last Judgement.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = The enemy tyrannizes me without respite; he snatches
the good grain from my soul. But since you have given me the seed
of your prayers, O holy Matthew, friend of Christ, take me into your
service and make me sing of you, weak as I am, as the narrator of
your countless and sublime exploits, your love for Christ, the fervor
with which you have left all things to follow Him who called you,
O you who were the first evangelist for this world and who gave a
vivid description of the Last Judgement.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 16, we commemorate the holy Apostle and
Evangelist Matthew.
@SYNAX INDENT = Enduring his martyrdom in the fiery furnace, Matthew
cried out, <169>You save the publicans, O my God! I thank you, O Jesus!<170>
The tireless Apostle was burned on the sixteenth.
@SYNAX LEFT = By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Having shaken off your yoke as a publican, you wisely
followed Christ, O holy Matthew. Having wondrously followed in His
footsteps, you became an initiate in His divine Mysteries, inheriting
His glory and sharing His Kingdom in the heavens.
@AFTR EXAPOST = O Virgin Mother of God, lift up in prayer for us your
all-pure hands which carried the Creator, entreating Him to save us
from all trials of demons, and to grant us the goods of the Age to
Come, O all-spotless Virgin.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
4.
a sun all resplendent with light. You shined the light of the knowledge
of God over the whole world, O blessed one, to dispel the darkness
and shadows of the many idols by your divine preaching. Thus today
we celebrate your wondrous and radiant festival as a source of sanctification.
3.
2.
the light of the Spirit who appeared to you in the form of fire. With
your words of fire, you consumed the wood of the many idols. Thus
we glorify you as a divine Apostle, celebrating your sacred memory.
1.
the thunder of your saving teachings. You purified the whole creation
of idolatry. You poured out the light of the Gospel of Christ upon
all peoples. Having destroyed the temples constructed for idols, in
grace you built up Churches for the praise of God, O blessed one.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR PRAISES = O faithful, clap your hands today, singing hymns in
memory of the holy apostle and evangelist Matthew; for he has cast
off the yoke, renouncing the wealth of a publican, to follow Christ
and preach the divine Gospel. Thus his message has gone forth over
the whole world, as the prophet said, and he always intercedes that
our souls may be saved.
v.
@AFTR PRAISES = O Lady, receive the prayers of your servants: deliver
us from all danger and all affliction.
@RUBRIC = Great Doxology.
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 17
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of our Father among the Saints, Gregory
the Wonderworker, Bishop of Neo-Caesarea
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
3.
submitted your passions to the power of the spirit? Contemplative,
since you harvested wisdom as the fruit of prayer? An initiate in
the heavenly teachings and a sublime visionary? A thrice-holy hierarch,
a marvelous wonderworker? Intercede for the salvation of our souls!
2.
straying? A physician for the sick? A generous provider of things
needed by those who seek? A powerful expeller of demons? One who sets
the pace for Christians in the struggles of martyrdom? O wondrous
father, resplendent with prophetic charisms, intercede for the salvation
of our souls!
1.
impiety? The definer of the Faith and teacher of the nations? The
invincible champion of peace and unperturbed arbiter of conflicts?
A hermit who, from the mountains where you dwelt, saw what occurred
in the cities. Intercede for the salvation of our souls!
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Wisely plunged into the depths of contemplation, O
holy hierarch of Christ, you were initiated into the divine manifestation
of the Trinity. Gazing steadfastly in spirit upon Christ our God,
you poured out a sea of miracles over us: you changed the liquid nature
of water to stone; you turned the temple guardian away from the darkness
of error; you persuaded persecutors to believe in the truth and appeared
to them as a pillar of virtues. Correctly were you called <169>wonderworker.<170>
Thus we entreat you to ceaselessly intercede on our behalf before
the Savior for the salvation of our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Having slipped in the depths of my thoughts, submitted
to the seductions of the Deceiver, in my misery I have recourse to
your marvelous compassion and fervent intercession, O divine Bride,
pure Virgin! Snatch me from trials and temptations; save me from the
attacks of the demon, all-holy one, that I may sing to you with love,
glorify you, and prostrate myself before you, magnifying you as blessed
through all generations, O Lady!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing You hanging on the Cross between two thieves,
the Virgin Mother who bore You without corruption or pain, O Lord,
was pierced in her heart by the terrible sword of sorrow, weeping
bitterly. Her heart broken, her face was torn with anguish; she poured
forth warm tears and grieved, asking You, O Savior: <169>Alas, sweet
Treasure of my heart, how can You suffer this unjust passion?<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = You were given divine insights, like Daniel; just
as a dream came to him, in the same way, the mystery of the Faith
was revealed to you, O venerable father. Thus we entreat you to intercede
for our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = When you received the word of the Archangel, you became
a cherubic throne, O Theotokos, and you carried in your arms the Hope
of our souls.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = O Christ, when Your Mother saw You crucified, she cried
aloud: <169>O my Son, what strange sight do I see? How can You, the
Giver of Life, die in the flesh, hanging on a Cross?<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You became worthy of your name through your way of
life, through assiduous prayers and constant works of mercy. Wherefore,
holy father Gregory, intercede with Christ God that He may enlighten
our minds, lest we go to sleep in sin, which leads to death.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You received the power of performing miracles and
frightened the devils through your wonderworking and by healing the
sick. Wherefore, Gregory most wise, by your deeds, you were entitled
to be called the <169>Wonderworker.<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Where shall I begin to sing your praises, considering
the exceedingly great multitude of your wondrous works? Alas, I am
incapable of undertaking the praise of the life of the venerable father,
which surpasses all understanding. I hesitate to start with his miracles,
since they are more numerous than the grains of sand in the sea; thus,
he was entitled to be called the <169>Wonderworker.<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 17, we commemorate our father among the
saints, Gregory the Wonderworker, Bishop of Neo-Caesarea.
@SYNAX INDENT = Gregory worked miracles from his dwelling on earth.
He obtained permission to work even more from the Master who welcomed
him into His divine tabernacles. He finished out his days on the seventeenth
of November.
@SYNAX LEFT = By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O feast-lovers, with divine hymns let us celebrate
Gregory, the hierarch renowned throughout the whole world for his
countless miracles, that through his prayers we may obtain the remission
of our sins.
@AFTR EXAPOST = He who once was jealous of my divine life and bliss
in Paradise, the cunning and cruel enemy who caused me to be exiled
from Eden, has been put to death through your maternity, O Virgin.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
4.
Church, its firm teacher, wondrous instrument of the Paraclete, heavenly
spirit, lyre of the Spirit, sublime shepherd and yet gentle lamb,
sheep cherished by the supreme Shepherd, fountain flowing with teachings
and streams of healing. O hierarch Gregory, pray to Christ to grant
our souls great mercy.
3.
2.
virtues, support of the Church and model of priestly decorum, river
overflowing with divine streams that refresh the whole world by giving
abundant spiritual fruits of salvation and by wiping away the mire
of heresy, earthly angel, heavenly man, mouth meditating the Law of
God, O Gregory, worthy heir of Him who grants the world great mercy.
1.
was a source of conflict between brothers. With a stick changed into
a tree, by divine grace you stopped the course of a flooding river,
O Gregory, and destroyed the altars of the demons. By the warmth of
your prayers to God, you brought an end to the cold of impiety. By
your miracles, you strengthen our souls to lead them to the Benefactor
of All, from whom you received the merited reward. Entreat Him to
grant our souls great mercy.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR PRAISES = In reverence for the Bishop so famous for his miracles,
even inanimate things underwent wondrous transformations. A pool was
dried up so that peace might flow between two brothers. A stick became
a tree in order to divert a flood. By his word, a stone was moved,
and those who beheld were moved from unbelief to the knowledge of
God. Through it, the Lord wished to grant our souls great mercy.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Virgin Mother of God, your protection is a spiritual
remedy for us that assures our souls of deliverance from ills.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = When she saw the Word and Lamb of God, Emmanuel, hanging
in the flesh upon the cross, the unique Ewe, the only sinless Virgin,
broke into tears, consumed with anguish.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with:
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Chosen as a priest by God and adorned in the divine
garment received from on high, you have changed sons of unbelief into
children of the light, heirs of our God, for the grace of wisdom was
poured forth on your lips, and you were the author of amazing miracles.
On your feast, O blessed Gregory, entreat Christ our God on behalf
of our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Mother of God and blessed Virgin, save your servants
from all danger that we may glorify you as the hope of our souls.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing the Master of creation crucified, the spotless
Queen cried out in tears: <169>Alas, O divine Son, how can You, the
impassible God, suffer these pains?<170> And the Angels trembled with
awe when they beheld the mystery of Your ineffable crucifixion, O
all-powerful Jesus, the Savior of our souls!
@AFTR STAVRO =
@DATE = November 18
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Plato and Romanos
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For Plato
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
6.
the dislocation of your limbs, cruel mutilations, the unbearable fire,
hunger and death, seeking that glory which will not pass away. It
had been prepared for you from before all ages, and you contemplated
that eternal bliss in advance.
5.
to the life on high with a generous heart and godly thoughts, you
renounced the baseness and low value of visible things. Thus you endured
cutting and the searing flame with courage for the sake of Christ.
4.
surrounding you, you were crowned as a victor, gaining unending happiness
and the ineffable splendor of God: entreat Him to grant remission
of sins to those who sing to you.
@BOLD TITLE = For Romanos
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
3.
sufferings, you were a double-edged sword which tore into the hordes
of demons, O divine glory of the holy Church, illustrious Romanos,
wondrous adornment of the athletes who poured out their blood.
2.
cut out and your jaw broken, O victorious martyr, you attained your
blessed end by violent strangulation, O Romanos. But you remained
firm with the aid of the Holy Spirit: thus we acclaim you in faith.
1.
Resplendent for his sacred perseverance and radiant in his death,
he acquired the glory of the holy martyrs, since he was filled with
zeal for God. In company with him entreat the remission of sins for
us, O holy Romanos, wondrous and stoic martyr.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = O Lord, wondrous and glorious is the victory of your
martyr. Imitating the boldness of the Galilean fishermen, and weaving
tents with his theology, by his words and deeds he has burst asunder
the myths of Plato and the babbling of the stoics. Flayed alive and
beheaded, he drowned the enemy in the streams of his blood. O glory
of martyrs who courageously preached the sublime name of Christ, wonderworking
and blessed Plato, entreat Him to grant great mercy to our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Mother of God, you are the true vine laden with
the fruit of Life: wherefore we implore you, O Lady, to intercede
together with the Apostles and all the saints that we may obtain mercy
for our souls.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing a lawless people unjustly nail You to the Cross,
O Savior, the pure Virgin, Your Mother, was pierced in her heart,
as Simeon had once foretold.
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Martyrs
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord our God, Your holy martyrs Plato and Romanos
have deserved the crown of immortality on account of their good fight.
Armed with Your strength they have vanquished their persecutors and
crushed Satan's dreadful might. Through their supplications, O Christ
God, save our souls.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Romanos
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The Church deserved to have you as a major star,
O Romanos worthy of all praise; she is enlightened by your struggles,
wherefore she glorifies your splendid memory.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Plato
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your holy memory delights the universe and brings
us together in your venerable temple. Since we are now gathered together
in our joy, we praise your great deeds with hymns, O Plato, and cry
out to you with faith: <169>O holy one, save your city from its enemies!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Rejecting the vanities of the pagans, the wise Plato
cherished the precious teachings of the Disciples of Christ. Thus
he won the respect of all, and he was an anchor of faith for his beloved
homeland, the well-named Ancyra. Having given birth to him, it finds
in him a firm protector and fervent defender; daily it cries out,
<169>O holy one, save your city from its enemies!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 18, we commemorate the holy and great martyr
Plato.
@SYNAX INDENT = What greater faithful constancy has ever been seen?
Plato was stretched out on a bed of coals, but he did not sleep except
by means of a sword. On the eighteenth, his soul was lifted up to
glory.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the holy martyr Romanos.
@SYNAX INDENT = Let us admire the superhuman struggle of the martyr:
holy Romanos allowed himself to be strangled, yet he rejoiced.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Seeing your invincible character, the tyrant went
as far as the torments of trial by fire. But scorning it, O illustrious
and great martyr, you struggled for Christ even to the point of death,
with the help of grace. Bearing your crown forever, you reign with
your own Creator.
@AFTR EXAPOST = O Virgin Mary, you are truly the pure golden censer,
the tabernacle of the Trinity whom no space can contain; for in you
the Father was pleased, in you the Son has dwelt, and the Holy Spirit
has overshadowed you, making you the Mother of God.
@AFTR EXAPOST =
@DATE = November 19
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Prophet Obadiah and of the
Holy Martyr Barlaam
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For Obadiah
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
6.
Him, O Obadiah, you led the life of a divine prophet, acquiring the
foreknowledge of the future and an awareness of the truth. Intercede
continually that our souls be given peace and great mercy.
5.
have acquired a knowledge of the second order of the principle traits,
the essential characteristic marks of the one God, because of their
position; for the Lord enlightens His own servants with His light.
4.
God who surpasses all intelligence and understanding, O blessed Obadiah,
you stand as a divine prophet in the presence of the Master of All.
Entreat Him to give our souls peace and great mercy.
@BOLD TITLE = For Barlaam
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
3.
and stronger than iron. Under the heat of the fire, any of these melts,
burns, is quickly overcome and turned to liquid. But your extended
and tireless right hand wondrously withstood the burning coals, O
holy martyr.
2.
one, you did not carry in the blood of another, but your own. As a
martyr, with your right hand you offered an acceptable incense<197>not
to the false gods of the demons<197>but to the King of the Ages, Christ,
our Master and Savior.
1.
as a priest, and sacrificed as a lamb. You were both, and you were
offered as a holocaust in the fire of torments to our God as a pure
victim. Entreat Him to save the faithful who venerate your illustrious
memory.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O radiant tabernacle of the Lord, filled with the
grace of God, cloud bearing the Light which rose from your womb to
enlighten our souls and sentiments and cleanse away the snares of
the evil one, O pure one. Strengthen our minds by your prayers, O
spotless Virgin.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = When Your Virgin Mother saw You sent to the Cross,
O Lord, she was filled with amazement and cried out: <169>Behold what
You are given in return by a people who have been filled with Your
benefits! Do not leave me alone in the world, I pray, but arise, so
that our first parents may rise with You!<170>
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Obadiah
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = We celebrate today the memory of Your prophet Obadiah.
We implore You, O Lord, to save our souls through his intercession.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Barlaam
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord our God, Your holy martyr Barlaam has deserved
the crown of immortality on account of his good fight. Armed with
Your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors and crushed Satan's
dreadful might. Through his supplications, O Christ God, save our
souls!
@VES/ORTH =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Barlaam
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Radiant with power in your holocaust, O holy martyr,
you offered yourself to Christ our God as an acceptable incense offering.
You received a crown of glory, O Barlaam: intercede constantly for
us.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Obadiah
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Receiving clarity of mind from divine illumination,
the great Obadiah saw the future through the Holy Spirit. We piously
and wisely keep his memory today, and venerate him to find light for
our hearts.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 19, we commemorate the holy prophet Obadiah.
@SYNAX INDENT = Obadiah was indeed able to make other prophecies,
but his life was cut short. Death united him to his fathers on the
nineteenth.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the holy martyr Barlaam.
@SYNAX INDENT = Holding the coals and incense in his bare hand, Barlaam
made the incense offering to the one, true, and mighty God.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@SYNAX LEFT =
@DATE = November 20
@FEAST TITLE = Forefeast of the Entrance of the Most Holy Mother of
God into the Temple;
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of our Fathers among the Saints, Gregory
the Decapolitan and Proclos,
@FEAST TITLE = Archbishop of Constantinople
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@BOLD TITLE = For the Forefeast
6.
ever-Virgin, truly prophesy the future in the Spirit. For the Temple
of God, the Theotokos, with virginal glory enters as a little child
into the Temple.
5.
to the world as higher than all creation. Piously led into the House
of God, she fulfills the vow of her parents, and she is preserved
by the Holy Spirit.
4.
Lord, you brought forth for the world the Bread of Life that is the
Word. As His chosen Temple without spot, you were betrothed mystically
through the Spirit to be the Bride of God the Father.
@BOLD TITLE = For the Fathers
3.
the angels, O holy father. At your ease before the throne of the Lord,
intercede with Him that He absolve the sins and deliver from passions
the faithful who celebrate your holy memory.
2.
the thorns of the passions and worked your soul with temperance, as
land under a plow. In it, you sowed the seeds of faith, which produced
fruits of healing for us.
1.
O holy father, broken by night-long vigils, inviolable dwelling of
prayer, treasury of miracles, intercessor for the faithful who venerate
you: thus do we wish to call you, O Gregory.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@BODY TXT IND = Today, the Theotokos, the Temple that is to hold God,
is led into the Temple of the Lord, and Zechariah receives her. Today,
the Holy of Holies rejoices greatly, and the choir of angels mystically
keeps feast. With them, let us also celebrate this festival today,
and let us cry aloud with Gabriel: <169>Hail, O full of grace! The
Lord is with you, and He has given you great mercy!<170>
@RUBRIC = On Friday evening, instead of Glory...Now..., <169>Today
the Theotokos...<170>, we chant Glory..., <169>Today the Theotokos...<170>,
Now..., Dogmatikon of the Tone of the week from the Octoechos.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
1.
have adorned the episcopacy, O holy Proclos. You were truly a pillar
of the Church, enlightening the whole world by your words. Thus we
call you blessed and celebrate your holy and sacred memory with psalms
and canticles.
v.
2.
Motherhood of the spotless Virgin who gave birth to the Lord of all
ages, the Creator, the Son and Word of the Father, who willed to become
man for us in these latter days, without His nature being changed.
You shamed the foolish impiety of Nestorius.
v.
ring out their joy.
3.
preacher. On his throne, you were the successor of his piety, strengthening
the flock of Christ by your Orthodox teaching. O holy father, you
returned his venerable relics, as a pleasing jewel, to his Church.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Come, O people, let us praise her who is undefiled;
she who was foretold by the prophets and offered in the Temple, the
Mother preordained before all ages, who in this last time has been
shown forth as the Theotokos. O Lord, at her intercession, grant us
Your peace and great mercy.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Fathers
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O God of our Fathers, who always deal with us according
to Your everlasting compassion, take not Your mercy away from us,
but through the prayers of our fathers Gregory and Proclos guide our
lives along the way of peace.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Forefeast
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Anne is now preparing a great joy for us all, for
she has given birth to the only ever-virginal one, who is a joy that
dispels all sadness. Today Anne fulfills her vow with gladness, presenting
to the Temple of the Lord the one who is the true Temple of God's
Word and His pure Mother.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR SESSIONL = O virgins, praise the pure Mother of God; mothers,
chant of her; people, glorify her; and you priests, bless her. Only
an infant, she is presented to the Temple of the Law as the all-holy
Temple of the Lord. For this reason, celebrating this spiritual feast,
let us sing, <169>Hail, O Virgin, glory of the human race!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O virgins, praise...
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = O David, go into the Temple of God and receive our
Queen with joy as you say to her, <169>O Lady, you enter into the
Temple of the King; all your glory is from within, for from you will
flow milk and honey, the Light of Christ!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O David...
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Proclos
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today the most honorable city in the world celebrates
worthily the transfer of your venerable remains, O Proclos, our Father
wise and most blessed!
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Gregory
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The Church sees in you a brilliant sun enlightening
us all with the splendor of your virtues. Wherefore it celebrates
your holy memory and honors your efforts, O Gregory, our father wise
and most blessed.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Forefeast
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Filled with joy today because of the happy feast
of the Mother of God, the universe cries out, <169>This is the Holy
Tabernacle!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = The Lord and Maker of the whole creation, in the ineffable
tenderness of His heart and the unique love which He has for mankind,
saw the work of His hands now fallen. Overcome by pity, He was well
pleased to lift it up by lowering Himself in order to divinize His
creation, for He is good and compassionate by nature. Thus, He chose
the pure Virgin Mary as the mediatrix of that mystery in which He
assumed from her the nature of mankind which cries out, <169>This
is the Holy Tabernacle!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 20, we commemorate our venerable Father
Gregory the Decapolitan.
@SYNAX INDENT = The glory of God surrounded you like an opulent vine
at the end of your life, O Gregory. On the twentieth of November,
Gregory was invited to the source of living water of the divine Word.
@SYNAX LEFT = On this same day, we commemorate our father among the
Saints, Proclos, Archbishop of Constantinople, the disciple and successor
of blessed John Chrysostom.
@SYNAX INDENT = With joy, O Proclos, your master Chrysostom welcomed
you into the heavenly dwellings in the presence of God made man.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, have pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR EXAPOST = You submitted your flesh to your spirit and courageously
lived in asceticism. The heights which you attained made you a mirror,
reflecting the radiance of God, to the point that you sang in heaven
with the angels to the Savior of all, O Gregory.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Having the same virtues as Chrysostom, your wise master,
O blessed Proclos, you succeeded him on his throne, O illustrious
hierarch and divine preacher. You overthrew the heresy of Nestorius
and preached that the spotless Virgin is truly called the Mother of
God. With her, entreat Christ for the sheep of your fold.
@AFTR EXAPOST = O Zechariah, prepare the entrance of the Temple and
the Holy of Holies to receive the pure Mother of God, that temple
of divine wisdom which surpasses the cherubic throne. Sing a canticle
with us on the forefeast to the Virgin from whom Christ our God, the
Lord and Savior of the world, will be incarnate.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
1.
the Mother of the Creator, who was born of a barren mother wondrously.
With the virgins holding their lamps enkindled, let us go to encounter
her in the Temple where she will make her entrance.
v.
2.
which are words inspired by the Spirit, let us joyfully weave a crown
of praises for the Virgin. Thus, as is fitting, let us prepare a gift
for her on the forefeast.
v.
Temple of the King.
3.
with happiness and joy the dwelling-place of the Glory of God, the
unique Woman who is ineffably higher than the heavens. Sing to Christ,
the Savior!
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR APOSTICA = Today let heaven above greatly rejoice and let the
clouds pour down gladness at the mighty acts, exceedingly marvelous,
of our God. For behold, the gate that looks toward the East, born
according to the promise from a fruitless and barren womb, and dedicated
to God as His dwelling, is led today into the Temple as an offering
without blemish. Let David rejoice greatly, striking his harp. He
said, <169>The virgins in her train shall be brought to You!<170>
Within the tabernacle of God, within the place of His mercy seat,
she shall be brought up, to become the dwelling-place of Him who was
begotten of the Father without change before all ages, for the salvation
of our souls!
@AFTR APOSTICA =
@DATE = November 21
@FEAST TITLE = Entrance of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple
@FEAST TITLE = (2nd Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@FIRST KATHIS = First Kathisma: Blessed the man
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
8.
to the Lord and hymns of praise in honor of Mary, His Mother, His
holy Tabernacle, the Ark that contained the Word whom nothing can
contain. She is offered to God as a child in a marvelous way, and
Zechariah, the high priest, receives her with great joy, for she is
the dwelling-place of the Most High.
7.
6.
Mary, the pure and blessed one, is presented to the Temple of Moses
to live in its holy precincts. Joachim and Anne rejoice with her in
the Spirit, and all the virgins sing hymns of praise to the Lord in
honor of His Mother.
5.
4.
of the prophets and the glory of the apostles. You are the pride of
the martyrs and the cause of renewal for the whole human race; for
through you, we have been reconciled to God. Wherefore, we honor your
entrance into the Temple of the Lord, repeating to you the salutation
of the angel, for we are saved through your intercession, O most honorable
one!
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
3.
enters the Holy of Holies to be fed by an angel. She will become a
most holy Temple to our Most Holy God, who by dwelling in her sanctified
the whole creation and made our fallen nature godly.
2.
torches before Mary, the holy and spiritual Torch, and they bring
her with great honor to the Holy of Holies, foretelling that from
her will shine forth the splendid Light that will enlighten those
who sit in the darkness of ignorance.
1.
the high priest: <169>Come, receive joyfully the one whom the Prophets
of God announced by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Introduce her
into the Temple that she may be brought up in purity, to become the
Throne of God, a palace, a place of delight to the Lord of us all!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@BODY TXT IND = O Lady, Bride of God, you entered the temple of God
in your infancy to be brought up in the Holy of Holies, for you are
holy. There the Archangel Gabriel was sent to serve you and bring
you food. All the heavenly Powers were amazed at the sight of the
Holy Spirit dwelling in you. Wherefore, O pure Mother of God, all
blameless, glorified in heaven and on earth, save our race!
@RUBRIC = Readings: 1) Exodus 40:1-5, 9-10, 16, 34-35 2) I Kings
7:51; 8:1, 3-7, 9-11 3) Ezekiel 43:27-44:4
@BOLD TITLE = Lete
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR LETE = Today let heaven above greatly rejoice and let the clouds
pour down gladness at the mighty acts, exceedingly marvelous, of our
God. For behold, the gate that looks toward the East, born according
to the promise from a fruitless and barren womb, and dedicated to
God as His dwelling, is led today into the Temple as an offering without
blemish. Let David rejoice greatly, striking his harp. He said, <169>The
virgins in her train shall be brought to You!<170> Within the tabernacle
of God, within the place of His mercy seat, she shall be brought up,
to become the dwelling-place of Him who was begotten of the Father
without change before all ages, for the salvation of our souls!
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR LETE = Today the Theotokos, the Temple that is to hold God,
is led into the Temple of the Lord, and Zechariah receives her. Today
the Holy of Holies rejoices greatly, and the choir of angels mystically
keeps feast. With them, let us also celebrate the festival today,
and let us cry aloud with Gabriel: <169>Hail, O full of grace: the
Lord is with you, and He has given you great mercy!<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR LETE = Come, O people, and let us praise her who is undefiled,
she who was foretold by the prophets and offered in the Temple, the
Mother preordained before all ages, who in this last time has been
shown forth as the Theotokos. O Lord, at her intercession, grant us
Your peace and great mercy!
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
@AFTR LETE = Behold the day of joy and the most venerable season are
here! For the one who was a virgin before giving birth remained a
perfect virgin, even after she gave birth. She is presented today
to the Holy Temple, to the great admiration of the high priest Zechariah,
father of the Forerunner, who cries out with joy: <169>Behold, the
hope of the afflicted is coming near! She is holy, and she is vowed
to be the dwelling-place of the King of all! Let Joachim rejoice and
Anne dance with glee, for they have presented to God the Lady spotless
and all-blameless, when she was only three years old. O mothers, rejoice!
You virgins, be merry! Barren ones, share your happiness! The Queen
of all, the one whom God prepared from all eternity, has opened to
us the kingdom of heaven. Rejoice, O nations of the world, and be
glad!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
1.
heaven, the Virgin spotless and pure, coming to the Holy Temple to
be brought up in honor. Zechariah had this to say to her: <169>O Door
of the Lord, to you I open the doors of the Temple. Enter with joy,
for I know and I believe that the salvation of Israel will come now,
and from you will be born the Word of God, who grants great mercy
to the world!<170>
v.
2.
Mary, she presented her to the Temple of God and called her little
companions to carry flaming torches and walk before her. And she said,
<169>Go, my child, to the One who sent you to me. For you are promised
to Him by vow; you are an incense of delicate fragrance. Enter into
the veiled places and learn the mysteries of God. Prepare yourself
to be a delightful dwelling-place for Jesus, who grants great mercy
to the world."
v.
Temple of the King.
3.
the Virgin most holy, is placed today within the Temple of God. Little
girls walk before her in procession, carrying flaming torches. Let
her parents, the devoted couple, Joachim and Anne, be filled with
joy, for they have given birth to the one who gave birth in the flesh
to the Creator. She is the spotless one who is all happiness in the
heavenly mansions of the Temple. An angel will feed her because she
is to become the Mother of Christ, who grants great mercy to us all.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Let us celebrate this day, O assembly of the faithful,
as a spiritual feast. With great love, let us honor the maiden of
God, the Virgin and Mother of God, as she is presented to the Temple
of the Lord, for she has been chosen from among all the generations
to be the dwelling-place of Christ, the King of us all. Behold! You
virgins, come forth and enter, holding your flaming torches in honor
of the entrance of the ever-virgin. You mothers, cast away sadness
and regret and follow the one who became the Mother of God and the
cause of joy to the whole world, and glorify her. Let us then all
together cry out in joy with the angel our salutation to the Woman
full of grace, who is always interceding for our souls!
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Feast
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today is the prelude of the benevolence of God, and
the announcement of the salvation of men. In the Temple of God the
Virgin is seen openly, foretelling to all the coming of Christ. Wherefore
let us cry to her in a loud voice: <169>Hail! O fulfillment of the
Creator's Plan.<170>
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR SESSIONL = The fruit of the righteous Joachim and Anne is brought
as an offering to God in the holy sanctuary; it is she who sustains
our life, and she is a young child in the flesh. She receives the
blessing of Zechariah the priest. Let all of us in faith call her
blessed, for she is the Mother of the Lord.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
The fruit of the righteous Joachim and Anne...
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Before your conception, O pure Virgin, you were consecrated
to God. And now, after your birth, you are offered as a gift to Him,
in fulfillment of your parents' promise. To the divine Temple you
are brought, yourself a Temple truly divine, innocent from the time
you were a baby. You have appeared in the sanctuary accompanied by
brightly burning lamps, and you are the receiver of the Divine Light
that no man can approach. Magnificent in truth is your entry, O only
Bride of God and ever-Virgin.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Before your conception...
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Polyeleos
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Let David the Psalmist rejoice greatly; let Joachim
and Anne be glad, for a holy child has come forth from them: Mary,
the Lamp that bears the Divine Light. And she rejoices as she enters
the Temple. The son of Barachiah, beholding her, gave her his blessing,
and cried out in joy: <169>Hail, O wonder of the world!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Let David the Psalmist rejoice greatly...
@BOLD TITLE = Prokimenon
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
Listen, daughter, and behold and lend your ear.
v.
@RUBRIC = Gospel. Psalm 50.
v.
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR PROKIM = Today the living Temple of the Great King enters the
Temple to be prepared as a divine dwelling-place for Him. O people,
rejoice exceedingly.
v.
@AFTR PROKIM = Today the living ...
v.
abundance of Your tender mercies, wipe out my offense.
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR PROKIM = Today the Theotokos, the Temple that is to hold God,
is led to into the Temple of the Lord, and Zechariah receives her.
Today the Holy of Holies rejoices greatly, and the choir of angels
mystically keeps feast. With them, let us also celebrate the festival
today, and let us cry aloud with Gabriel: <169>Hail, O full of grace:
the Lord is with you, and He has given you great mercy!<170>
@RUBRIC = Canons: the first by George of Nicomedia in Tone 4; the
second by Basil the Monk in Tone 1. The Katavasias are of the Nativity
of Christ.
@RUBRIC =
@CANONS = CANONS
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 1
@ODE TEXT = I shall open my mouth, and it shall be filled with the
Spirit; and I shall sing a hymn to the Queen and Mother; and I shall
celebrate with splendor and sing with joy of her entry.
v.
@CANON INDENT = We know that you are the pure treasury of wisdom and
a never-failing fountain of flowing grace. O Lady, pour out on us
the streams of knowledge, that we may sing your praises forever!
@CANON INDENT = You are honored, O most holy Lady, far above all the
heavens, for you are both a temple and a palace; you are dedicated
in the Temple of God, to be prepared as a divine dwelling-place for
His coming.
@CANON INDENT = She who made the light of grace shine forth, the Theotokos,
has illumined all mankind and brought it together to adorn with songs
her most radiant triumph. O come, let us join them and hasten to her.
@CANON INDENT = Having opened the gates of the Temple of God, the
Glorious Gate through which human thoughts cannot pass now urges us
to enter with her and to delight in her divine marvels!
@ODE 2 TEXT = Let us sing a hymn to God who has done wondrous things
with His arm and has saved Israel, for He is gloriously triumphant.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Today let us hasten together to the Theotokos, honoring
her in songs, and let us keep spiritual feast. For she is offered
in the Temple as a gift to God.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us praise in songs the glorious advance of the
Theotokos. For today as a gift she is prophetically offered in the
Temple, while she herself is a Temple of God.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Anne without reproach greatly rejoiced, offering
her child to the Temple as a precious gift to God, while Joachim,
bright with joy, kept feast with her.
@CANON 2 INDNT = David the Forefather praised you of old in hymns,
O Virgin Bride of God, calling you Daughter of Christ the King. You
have given birth to Him as a Mother and you have fed Him as your child.
@CANON 2 INDNT = When she was three years old according to the flesh,
the Theotokos was led to the Lord. Zechariah, the priest of God, received
her in the Temple with great rejoicing and established her there.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O virgins carrying torches, rejoice today and take
up the song. O mothers, join them in praises to the Queen and Mother,
as she enters the Temple of Christ the King.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Trinity, one in essence, Father, Son, and Holy
Spirit: we the faithful glorify You as Creator of all, and we cry
aloud: <169>Save us, O God!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The King and God comes forth wearing the purple dyed
from your blood, O all-pure one. He has renewed mankind in His compassion.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = Christ is born: give Him glory! Christ has come down
from heaven: receive Him! Christ is now on earth: exalt Him! O you
earth, sing to the Lord! O you nations, praise Him in joy, for He
is gloriously triumphant!
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 3
@ODE TEXT = O Theotokos, living and overflowing fountain, strengthen
those who applaud you in this spiritual gathering, and in your holy
entry, make them worthy of crowns of glory!
v.
@CANON INDENT = Today the temple has become a wedding ornament and
a fair chamber for the Virgin, as it receives the living Bridal Chamber
of God, pure and without spot: she who shines more brightly than all
creation.
@CANON INDENT = David, leading the dance, leaps in gladness and rejoices
with us. And, O undefiled and all-pure Virgin, he calls you the Queen,
clothed in an embroidered mantle of gold, standing in the Temple before
the King and God.
@CANON INDENT = From Eve of old the transgression came upon mankind;
and now from Eve's stock has flowered forth our restoration and incorruption,
the Theotokos, who is brought today into the house of God.
@CANON INDENT = The hosts of angels and all mankind dance today before
your face, O all-pure Lady. Carrying torches, they go before you,
proclaiming your greatness in the house of God.
@ODE 2 TEXT = Let my heart be strengthened in Your will, O Christ
our God, as You strengthened the second heaven above the waters, and
established the world on a firm foundation, O all-powerful Lord!
@CANON 2 INDNT = O you who love the feasts, celebrate and be glad
in spirit, exulting today in the holy feast of the Daughter of the
King and the Mother of God.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Be glad today, O Joachim, and rejoice exceedingly
in spirit, O Anne, who now present your daughter to the Lord, as a
three-year-old victim of sacrifice, holy and spotless.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Dwelling place of God, the holy Theotokos, Mary,
three years old according to the flesh, is offered in the holy Temple.
The virgins, her companions, go before her, carrying torches.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The unspotted ewe-lamb of God, the unblemished dove,
the tabernacle that is to hold God, the sanctuary of glory, has chosen
to dwell in the holy Temple.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Three years old in the flesh and many years old in
spirit, more spacious than the heavens and higher than the powers
above, let the Bride of God be praised in song.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Celebrating the coming of the Theotokos into the
sanctuary, let us, too, carry torches today in spirit, go in joy with
the virgins into the Temple.
@CANON 2 INDNT = You priests of God, clothe yourselves by grace in
righteousness, going in joy to meet the Daughter of the King and God
as she enters the Holy Place.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The Father is Light, His Son is Light, and the Spirit,
the Comforter, is Light: shining forth from one sun, the Trinity divinely
illumines and preserves our souls!
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The prophets proclaimed you in ages past, speaking
of you as the Ark of holiness, the golden censer, the candlestick
and the table, and we sing your praises as the Tabernacle that held
God!
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = To the Son, born of the Father before all ages and
without any change, to Christ our God who in these times was pleased
to be incarnated of the Virgin Mary, let us lift up our voices and
say: <169>Holy are You, O Lord. You have lifted us up from our fallen
state!<170>
@RUBRIC = Little Litany.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymn
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = What is this present feast? Tell us, O David! Is
it for her of whom you have sung in the Book of Psalms, calling her
<169>Daughter, Child of God, and Virgin,<170> as you said, <169>The
virgins in her train shall be brought mystically to the King?<170>
Make this feast honored throughout the world by those who cry aloud,
<169>The Theotokos has come among us, the prelude of salvation!<170>
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 4
@ODE TEXT = Perceiving the ineffable, divine design of the Most High,
the Incarnation from the Virgin, the prophet Habakkuk cried out, <169>Glory
to Your power, O Lord!<170>
v.
@CANON INDENT = Today the House of God receives the Gate through which
none may pass; so it has brought an end to the worship commanded by
the shadow of the Law, and it cries aloud: <169>Indeed, the truth
has appeared to those on earth!<170>
@CANON INDENT = The overshadowed mountain foreseen by Habakkuk and
announced prophetically in days of old has come to dwell within the
sanctuary of the Temple. There she has put forth flowers of virtue,
and with her shadow covers the ends of the earth.
@CANON INDENT = Let us, with all the earth, look upon these marvelous,
strange, and wonderful events: how the Virgin, receiving food from
an angel, offers us an image of the divine dispensation.
@CANON INDENT = Appearing as a Temple and a Palace and living Heaven,
you are dedicated today in the Temple of the Law, to be kept therein,
O undefiled Bride of God.
@ODE 2 TEXT = O prophet Habakkuk, in spirit you foresaw the incarnation
of the Word, and you announced it, saying, <169>In the course of the
years, You will make it known; in the course of the years, You will
be revealed. Glory to Your power, O Lord!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = O prophet Isaiah, prophesy to us: who is the Virgin
that shall conceive? <169>It is she who has come forth from the root
of Judah and who was born of David the King, glorious fruit of a holy
seed!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = O virgins, begin your songs! With torches in hand,
praise the advance of the pure Theotokos, who now enters the Temple
of the Lord, and keep festival with us.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Be glad, O Joachim and Anne, who now present to the
Lord in the Temple, as a three-year-old victim of sacrifice, your
daughter who shall be the pure Mother of Christ our God, the King
of all!
@CANON 2 INDNT = O venerable Holy of Holies, you love to dwell in
the holy Temple! And you live in contact with the angels, O Virgin,
receiving bread most marvelously from heaven, O you who sustain our
life.
@CANON 2 INDNT = When all hope was gone, Joachim and Anne gave birth
to the undefiled Virgin, and in piety they promised her as an offering
to God. Today they fulfill their promise, giving their child as a
sacrifice in the house of God.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The rod of Aaron that once budded prefigured your
divine childbirth, O undefiled Virgin. For without seed, you conceive
and suffer no corruption. And after bearing a Child, you remain a
virgin, nourishing a baby who is the God of all.
@CANON 2 INDNT = You virgins, hasten to the Virgin with piety! You,
O mothers, hasten to the Mother! Together let us honor the Child born
to Joachim and Anne as a blameless sanctuary, and the Mother who bore
Christ as a holy tree bringing forth fruit for God. Let us all joyfully
keep the feast!
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us glorify the true God, One in Essence and Three
in Persons, the Master of Creation whose praises the hosts of angels
and archangels sing. Let us the faithful worship Him forever!
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O pure and undefiled Virgin, pray without ceasing
to your Son and God, whom you conceived in the flesh, that He may
deliver all your servants from the manifold snares of the devil and
from every temptation that assails us.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = Christ our God, worthy of all praise, a stem has come
forth from Jesse and sprouted a flower out of a fertile and well-shaded
mountain; You became incarnate of a Virgin all-pure. Glory to Your
power, O Lord!
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 5
@ODE TEXT = The universe was amazed at your holy entry, O Virgin who
knew not wedlock, for you are a most pure Temple, yet you have gone
within the Temple of God, to grant peace to those who praise you.
v.
@CANON INDENT = Glorious sanctuary and holy offering, today the most
pure Virgin is dedicated in the Temple of God, and in ways which He
alone understands, she is kept as a dwelling-place for our God, the
King of all.
@CANON INDENT = Seeing the beauty of your soul, O undefiled Virgin,
Zechariah cried aloud with faith: <169>You are our deliverance, you
are the joy of all. You are our restoration, through whom the Incomprehensible
appears comprehensible to me!<170>
@CANON INDENT = O virgin all-undefiled, your wonders surpass all understanding!
Strange is the manner of your birth! Strange is the manner of your
growing! Strange and most marvelous are all things concerning you,
O Bride of God, and they are beyond the telling of mortal man.
@CANON INDENT = A candlestick with many lights, O Bride of God, you
have shone forth today in the house of God, and you give us light
through the holy gifts of grace from your wonders, O pure and far-famed
Theotokos!
@ODE 2 TEXT = Bring about the day of Your never-ending Light for those
who keep watch, ceaselessly meditating on Your precepts and just judgements,
O Master full of love, O Christ our God!
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us, the Orthodox, all hasten together with our
torches and glorify the Mother of God, for today she is offered to
the Lord as an acceptable sacrifice.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let the forefathers rejoice exceedingly today, O
Lady, and let her who bore you celebrate with your father: for their
fruit is led to the Lord!
@CANON 2 INDNT = Keeping feast in faith, let us all sing the praises
of the undefiled Maiden, most glorious and of many names, for she
conceived in the flesh the divine Victim and sacrificial Offering.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The contract of your betrothal, the divine tokens
of your Motherhood past understanding are written today by the Holy
Spirit in the house of God, O pure Virgin.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let the forecourt of the glory of our God be opened
and let it receive, as a sacrificial victim three years old and without
blemish, the Mother of God who was never to know wedlock.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us sing the praises of that greatly venerated
and overshadowed mountain, the ever-Virgin who became the Mother of
God. For she has made light shine to the ends of the earth.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us glorify and worship the one Godhead in three
Persons, undivided by nature and equal in glory, that was before the
beginning and ever shall be.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
@CANON 2 INDNT = We have your intercessions, O Mother of God, as a
fair haven and as an unassailable rampart in times of trouble, and
we are always delivered from danger and affliction.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = Since You are the God of Peace and the Father all-merciful,
O Lover of Mankind, You sent us the great Messenger of Your knowledge
and granted us Your peace. Led to the light of Your divine knowledge,
we come out of the darkness to sing to You a hymn of glory.
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 6
@ODE TEXT = Come, divinely-inspired, let us clap our hands and cele<->brate
this holy and most honorable feast of the Mother of God and glorify
God who was born of her.
v.
@CANON INDENT = He who upholds all things by His word, in His mercy
has heard the prayer of righteous Joachim and Anne. He has loosed
them from the disease of barrenness and given them the daughter that
is the cause of our joy.
@CANON INDENT = The Lord, wishing to make known to the Gentiles His
salvation, has now chosen from among mankind the woman who knew not
wedlock, to be a sign of reconciliation and renewal.
@CANON INDENT = O undefiled one, you yourself are a house of grace,
in which are stored up all the treasures of the ineffable dispensation
of God. Thus, you partake of boundless joy in the Temple.
@CANON INDENT = Having received you as a royal diadem, O Bride of
God, the Temple shone with beauty and gave way to better things, seeing
in you the fulfillment of the prophecies.
@ODE 2 TEXT = With Jonah, I cry out to You, O Master: <169>Snatch
my life up from the pit! O Savior of the world, save me as I sing,
`Glory to You!'<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = O faithful, let us feast in spirit the Mother of
God, singing her praises with piety. For she is indeed more holy than
the heavenly powers.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O faithful, let us praise in spiritual songs the
Mother of the Light, for today she has been manifested to us as she
enters the Temple of God.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The ewe-lamb without blemish, the pure dove, is brought
as an offering to dwell in the house of God: the undefiled Virgin
who was to become the Mother of God.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The Temple of God, the heavenly Tabernacle, accomp<->lished
her entry into the Temple of the Law, and from her the Light has shone
on us in darkness.
@CANON 2 INDNT = A child in the flesh, but perfect in soul, the holy
Ark enters into the house of God, there to feed upon divine grace.
@CANON 2 INDNT = By your intercessions set us free from every temptation
and danger of soul, for we run to you, O far-famed Mother of Christ
our God.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Father, Son, and Spirit of truth, Unity in three
Persons and undivided Trinity: have mercy upon those who worship Your
divine power.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
@CANON 2 INDNT = He whom nothing can contain was contained in your
womb, O undefiled Mother of God, and from you He has come forth in
two natures, God and man.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = As the whale received Jonah in its belly and safely
ejected him, as a mother receives the child and gives it birth, so
did the Word of God come into the Virgin's womb, taking flesh and
being born of her, yet leaving her virginity untouched. He became
man, and yet remained what He was, protecting His Mother against any
harm.
@RUBRIC = Little Litany.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The most pure Temple of our Holy Savior, and the
most precious and bright Bridal Chamber, the Virgin, sacred treasury
of the glory of God, openly appears today in the Temple of the Lord,
bringing with her the grace of the Most Holy Spirit. Wherefore the
angels of God are singing: This is the heavenly Tabernacle.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Seeing the grace of the secret mysteries of God made
manifest and clearly fulfilled in the Virgin, I rejoice. And I know
not how to understand the strange and secret manner whereby the pure
one has been revealed as alone chosen above all creation, visible
and spiritual. Therefore, wishing to praise her, I am struck dumb
with amazement in both mind and speech. Yet still I dare to proclaim
and magnify her: This is the heavenly Tabernacle!
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 21, we commemorate the Entrance of the Mother
of God into the Temple.
@SYNAX INDENT = By an angel, the Virgin is nourished in the Temple.
He will soon return with a salutation, bringing her the joy of the
annunciation. On the twenty-first, Mary makes her entrance into the
Temple.
@SYNAX LEFT = By the prayers of the Mother of God, O Lord, take pity
on us and save us. Amen.
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 7
@ODE TEXT = The three young men, divinely inspired, refused to worship
creatures instead of the Creator. But with courage, they trampled
down the threatening fire and sang joyfully: <169>Blessed are You,
O all-praised Lord, the God of our fathers!<170>
v.
@CANON INDENT = Behold, a glad springtime has now shone to the ends
of the earth, making our souls and understanding and minds bright
through grace: for today is the feast of the Theotokos. Let us rejoice
mystically.
@CANON INDENT = Today all things, heaven and earth, the ranks of angels,
and the multitude of mortal men, attend the Queen and Mother. Let
them cry aloud: <169>Joy and deliverance is led into the Temple!<170>
@CANON INDENT = The written Law has passed away and vanished as a
shadow, and the rays of grace have shone forth at your entrance into
the Temple of God, O undefiled Virgin Mother, who are forever blessed.
@CANON INDENT = O undefiled Lady, heaven and earth and the things
beneath the earth have been brought into subjection to your Son as
Maker and God, and all mortals confess that the Lord has appeared,
the Savior of our souls.
@ODE 2 TEXT = The furnace was sprinkled with dew, O Savior, and the
young men danced for joy as they sang: <169>Blessed are You, O God
of our Fathers!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us exult today in the joy of the feast! Let us
honor, as is right, Joachim and Ann, and let us sing the praises of
the undefiled Virgin.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let David prophesy, who said in the Spirit: <169>The
virgins in your train shall be brought into the Temple of the Queen
and Mother!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = The ranks of angels rejoiced exceedingly and the
spirits of the just were glad, when the Mother of God was led into
the sanctuary.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Mary all-pure rejoiced in body and spirit, dwelling
as a sacred vessel in the Temple of the Lord.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Receiving heavenly food, she who was to become the
Mother of Christ the Savior according to the flesh increased in wisdom
and grace.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The wise parents led you to the innermost parts of
the temple, O undefiled Virgin, there to be brought up in wondrous
fashion and prepared as a dwelling-place for Christ our God.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us glorify the undivided Trinity; let us sing
the praises of the one Godhead: the Father, the Word, and the Most
Holy Spirit.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Pray to the Lord whom you bore, for He is compassionate
by nature, to save the souls of those who sing your praises, O Mother
of God!
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = Because the three holy youths grew up in the true
Faith, they despised the pagans' commands and spurned their threats.
As they stood in the midst of the burning furnace, they sang a hymn
and said, <169>Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!<170>
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 8
@ODE TEXT = Listen, daughter, O spotless Virgin: let Gabriel tell
you the plan of the most High that is ancient and true. Prepare yourself
to receive God: for through you, the Incomprehensible comes to dwell
with mortal men. Therefore I cry out with rejoicing, <169>O all you
works of the Lord, bless the Lord!<170>
v.
@CANON INDENT = As Anne led the undefiled Temple into the house of
God, she cried aloud and said with faith to the priest: <169>Take
the child given to me by God, and lead her into the Temple of your
Creator, and sing to Him with joy, `O all you works of the Lord, bless
the Lord!'<170>
@CANON INDENT = When he saw Anne, Zechariah said to her in spirit,
<169>You lead here the true Mother of Life, whom the prophets of God
heralded from afar as the Theotokos. How shall the Temple contain
her? Therefore, in wonder I cry out, <170>O all you works of the Lord,
bless the Lord!"
@CANON INDENT = <169>I stand here as the suppliant of God,<170> answered
Anne to him, <169>calling upon Him with faith and prayer to receive
the fruit of my travail. For I promised that after childbirth, I would
present my child to Him who gave her to me. Therefore, leaping with
joy, I cry out: `O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord!'<170>
@CANON INDENT = The priest said to her, <169>Truly this act is in
keeping with the Law. I perceive that this is a wholly strange thing:
for I see led into the house of God the one who wondrously surpasses
the sanctuary in grace. Therefore I cry out in joy, `O all you works
of the Lord, bless the Lord!'<170>
@CANON INDENT = Anne said to him, <169>Hearing your words, I am filled
with new strength. For you understand these things by the Spirit of
God, and have clearly announced what shall come to pass in the Virgin.
Take, then, the all-blameless one into the Temple of your Creator,
and sing to Him with joy, `O all you works of the Lord, bless the
Lord!'<170>
@CANON INDENT = The priest cried out, <169>A Lamp that gives light
has been kindled for us and has made great joy shine in the Temple.
Let the souls of the prophets rejoice with me, as they see strange
wonders accomplished in the house of God, and let them now cry out,
`O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord!'<170>
@ODE 2 TEXT = The angels in heaven serve the Lord and Creator with
reverence and awe. O priests, sing to Him; young men, glorify Him;
O people, bless and exalt Him throughout all the ages!
@CANON 2 INDNT = Bright with joy today, Joachim celebrates. And Anne,
without reproach, offers unto the Lord God the sacrifice given to
her according to the promise: her holy daughter.
@CANON 2 INDNT = The saints David and Jesse exult today and Judah
is filled with pride. For from their root a branch has sprung, the
pure Virgin from whom the pre-eternal God is to be born.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Today Mary, the undefiled and living Temple, is offered
up in the house of God, and Zechariah receives her in his hands as
a holy treasure of the Lord.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us the faithful honor the true Virgin and Mother
of God, as a Gate of salvation and a spiritual mountain, as a living
Ladder, blessed by the hands of the priests.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Prophets, apostles, and martyrs of Christ, ranks
of angels and all the dwellers upon earth, let us honor with hymns
the pure Virgin, for she is the blessed Mother of the Most High.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O undefiled and pure one, the couple who bore you
in holiness offered you in the Temple as a spotless sacrifice; and
in a strange fashion, you lodged in the sanctuary of God, there to
be prepared as a dwelling-place for the Word.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
@CANON 2 INDNT = In choir, let us sing the thrice-holy hymn to the
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, indivisible Unity, one Godhead, who
holds all creation in the hollow of His hand throughout all the ages.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
@CANON 2 INDNT = He who is without beginning, begins; from a Virgin
Maid, the Word is born in the flesh according to His good pleasure,
God and mortal man; and in His extreme compassion, He refashions us
who had fallen.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = The dewy furnace was a symbol of a supernatural wonder:
as it left unharmed the youths that were thrown in its midst, so also
the fire of the Godhead descended upon the Virgin's womb, leaving
it unscathed. Wherefore, let us sing a hymn of praise and say, <169>Let
the whole creation bless the Lord and exalt His holy name forever!<170>
@RUBRIC = The Canticle of Mary is not sung today.
@ODE X TITLE = Ode 9
@BOLD TITLE = Hirmos
(4th Tone)
@ODE TEXT = The angels were stunned as they saw the Virgin coming
in. How has she entered in glory into the Holy of Holies? O Mother
of God, you are the living Ark of God. No profane hand may touch you,
but the lips of the faithful will never cease to sing your praise,
repeating with joy the angel's words: <169>O Pure Virgin, you are
indeed raised above all creatures!<170>
v.
has she entered in glory into the Holy of Holies?
troparia)
@CANON INDENT = O pure Theotokos, you have a clean and shining beauty
of soul, and you are filled from heaven with the grace of God. You
always enlighten with eternal light those who cry aloud in gladness:
<169>O pure Virgin, you are indeed raised above all creatures!<170>
@CANON INDENT = O pure Theotokos, your wonders surpass the power of
words. For in you, I see something beyond speech: a body that was
never subject to the taint of sin. Therefore, in thanksgiving, I cry
out: <169>O pure virgin, you are indeed raised above all creatures!<170>
@CANON INDENT = The ancient Law prefigured you most wondrously as
tabernacle, vessel of manna, ark of the covenant, veil of the Temple,
rod of Aaron, Temple never to be destroyed, and gate of God, and so
it teaches us to cry to you: <169>O pure Virgin, you are indeed raised
above all creatures!<170>
@CANON INDENT = David sang of you in his hymns, calling you the daughter
of the King, for he saw you in the beauty of your virtues, clothed
in embroidered garments of gold, at the right hand of God; therefore
in prophecy he cried aloud: <169>O pure Virgin, you are indeed raised
above all creatures!<170>
@CANON INDENT = Foreseeing how you were to receive God, Solomon spoke
of you in dark sayings as the Gate of the King and the sealed fountain,
from which came forth untroubled waters for us who cry aloud with
faith: <169>O pure Virgin, you are indeed raised above all creatures!<170>
@CANON INDENT = Grant to my soul, O Theotokos, the calm peace that
comes from your gifts of grace. You are a fountain of life for those
who honor you as is right. You surround, protect, and preserve us
that we may cry aloud to you: <169>O pure Virgin, you are indeed raised
above all creatures!<170>
@ODE 2 TEXT = O faithful, let us magnify the radiant cloud in which
the Master of All descended from heaven like dew upon the fleece and
was incarnate for us. The infinite God was made a man like us in her,
the holy Mother of our God!
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
temple of the Lord and blessed by the hands of priests.
the troparia)
@CANON 2 INDNT = From the righteous Joachim and Anne a fruit came
forth according to the promise: Mary, the Child of God. A young girl
according to the flesh, as acceptable incense she is offered in the
holy Temple, that she who is herself holy may dwell in the Holy Place!
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us praise in hymns the child by nature who was
shown forth as Mother beyond nature. For today she is offered to the
Lord in the Temple of the Law as a sweet-smelling savor, the spiritual
fruit of her righteous parents.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O faithful, let us offer to the Theotokos the salutation
of the angel, and raise our cry: <169>Hail, O Bride most beautiful!
Hail, bright cloud, from whom the Lord shone forth upon us as we sat
in the darkness of ignorance! Hail, hope of all!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = All creation joins the angel Gabriel, crying out
to the Theotokos in fitting song: <169>Hail, undefiled Mother of God!
Through you we have been delivered from the ancient curse and have
become partakers of incorruption!<170>
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Holy of Holies and pure Mother of God, Mary, by
you intercessions, set us free from every heresy and affliction, from
the snares of the enemy, for we venerate with faith the icon of your
holy form.
@CANON 2 INDNT = Far greater than the cherubim, higher than the seraphim,
and more spacious than the heavens are you, O Virgin, for you have
contained in your womb our God whom nothing can contain and have given
birth to Him in an ineffable manner. Pray to Him earnestly on our
behalf.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
Godhead in three Persons!
@CANON 2 INDNT = Let us glorify the one Nature in three Persons, the
one indivisible glory, the undivided Trinity in one Godhead who is
praised without ceasing in heaven and on earth. With reverence, let
us worship the Father with the Son and the Holy Spirit.
@CANON 2 INDNT = v.
and glorious than all the powers of heaven.
@CANON 2 INDNT = O Virgin Theotokos, intercede for those who faithfully
seek refuge in your compassion, and who reverently worship your Son
as God and Lord of the world, that they be delivered from corruption
and danger and manifold temptations.
@BOLD TITLE = Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = Behold a mystery, a strange and wonderful mystery:
the cave has become heaven, the Virgin a throne of the Cherubim, and
the manger a noble place where Christ our God reposes. Wherefore,
let us praise and exalt Him!
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilarion
@AFTR EXAPOST = In faith let us praise Mary, the child of God, whom
long ago the assembly of prophets foretold, speaking of her as the
vessel of manna and Aaron's rod, tablet of the Law and uncut mountain.
For she is led today into the Holy of Holies, there to be brought
up for the Lord.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
4.
truly prophesy the future in the Spirit. For the Temple of God, the
Theotokos, with virginal glory enters as a little child into the Temple.
3.
to the world as higher than all creation. Piously led into the house
of God, she fulfills the vow of her parents and she is preserved by
the Holy Spirit.
2.
Lord, you brought forth for the world the Bread of Life that is the
Word. As His chosen Temple without spot, you were betrothed mystically
through the Spirit to be the Bride of God the Father.
1.
Joachim brings within today in glory the Temple and Throne of the
King of All. He consecrates as an offering to God her whom the Lord
has chosen to be His Mother.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR PRAISES = Today the spotless Virgin is led to the Temple, to
become the dwelling-place of God, the King of All, who sustains our
life. Today, as a three-year-old victim of sacrifice, the most pure
Sanctuary is led into the Holy of Holies. To her let us cry out with
the angel: <169>Hail, you who alone are blessed among women!<170>
@RUBRIC = Great Doxology. Litanies and Dismissal.
@RUBRIC =
@RUBRIC =
@RUBRIC =
@RUBRIC =
@RUBRIC =
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 22
@FEAST TITLE = Second day of the Entrance; Commemoration of the Holy
Apostles Philemon, Apphias, Archippos, and Onesimos; and of the Holy
Martyrs Cecilia, Valerian, and Tiburtios
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For the Feast
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
6.
by visible signs today. For she who brings the divine Light into the
world is led as a Bride into the Temple of God. Let us acclaim her
as the holy Temple of our God, the holy dwelling-place of Christ,
the Giver of Light.
5.
as a truly acceptable first-fruit to the One who had allowed them
to bear this divine fruit. Through her, the sad debt is wiped away.
Let us sing to her with joy, O faithful, for she brought joy to the
whole world.
4.
Let us escort the Virgin, accompanying her at her entrance. For she
enters into the Temple of God in glory to become the Bride of the
Spirit. With joy, let us celebrate together the feast of her entrance.
@BOLD TITLE = For the Saints
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
3.
you pour forth the wine of the knowledge of God upon afflicted souls,
and you bring joy to hearts saddened by the darkness of error and
the shadows of idolatry. Thus we celebrate your light-bearing memory
with joy.
2.
knowledge through you, O blessed one. You are venerated by the city
of the Colossians, which possesses your body as a divine treasure
and daily receives healing and grace flowing from it. Saved from all
danger by your prayers, they celebrate your memory, O illustrious
Philemon.
1.
holy hierarch, and sing of Onesimos and Philemon, the divine heralds
and sacred teachers. By their words, they uprooted the error of polytheism
and planted the knowledge of truth in all. Let their memorial be a
feast for us.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Come, let us sing together of those who saw the Word
with their own eyes and were initiates of His wonders: Philemon, Onesimos,
Apphias, and Archippos, the Apostles of Christ! Let us hail them as
lights of the universe: <169>Rejoice, ramparts of the Colossians,
companions of the Angels, who fought courageously against the error
of idolatry and preached Christ as Savior! Before the throne of the
Holy Trinity, intercede for the salvation of our souls!<170>
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 1)
@BODY TXT IND = Today let heaven above greatly rejoice and let the
clouds pour down gladness at the mighty acts, exceedingly marvelous,
of our God. For behold, the gate that looks toward the East, born
according to the promise from a fruitless and barren womb, and dedicated
to God as His dwelling, is led today into the Temple as an offering
without blemish. Let David rejoice greatly, striking his harp. He
said, <169>The virgins in her train shall be brought to You!<170>
Within the tabernacle of God, within the place of His mercy-seat,
she shall be brought up, to become the dwelling-place of Him who was
begotten of the Father without change before all ages, for the salvation
of our souls!
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
1.
their lamps enkindled and radiantly accompany the only all-spotless
Virgin.
v.
2.
the Vessel containing the Manna, the saving Bridge, the only all-spotless
Virgin.
v.
Temple of the King.
3.
to receive the holy Gate of God, the only Mother who remains a virgin
forever.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BODY TXT IND = Today the spotless Virgin is led to the Temple, to
become the dwelling-place of God, the King of all, who sustains our
life. Today, as a three-year-old victim of sacrifice, the most pure
Sanctuary is led into the Holy of Holies. To her, let us cry out with
the angel: <169>Hail, you alone who are blessed among women!<170>
@RUBRIC = When it is wished, the Aposticha of Cecilia may be used
instead of those of the Feast:
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
1.
and you offered yourself to the Creator as a spotless bride, adorned
in a holy manner in the brocade with which your martyrdom clothed
you, O blessed one. Thus Christ welcomed you into His radiant and
immaculate bridal chamber, O illustrious Cecilia!
v.
2.
your mediation, He captivated two brothers who had been touched by
the good odor of your continual intercessions. Thus, abandoning the
foul stench of idolatry, they were made worthy of the heavenly Perfume
born from the Virgin and poured out over us in His ineffable goodness.
v.
Israel.
3.
Without heed to your earthly betrothed, you took your place in the
choir of the wise virgins and were presented to the heavenly Bridegroom.
You waged a resolute struggle for Him and triumphed over the pride
of the enemy, O Cecilia, venerable splendor of the martyrs.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@BODY TXT IND = Today the spotless Virgin is led to the Temple, to
become the dwelling-place of God, the King of all, who sustains our
life. Today, as a three-year-old victim of sacrifice, the most pure
Sanctuary is led into the Holy of Holies. To her, let us cry out with
the angel: <169>Hail, you alone who are blessed among women!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Apostles
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O holy Apostles, intercede with God all-merciful
that He may save our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Cecilia
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O assembly of the faithful, let us praise with great
honor Cecilia, who adorned her heart with virtue and willingly became
the bride of Christ. She put to shame the daring Almakios and became
as a sparkling diamond among those who sought her hand. For us who
remain on earth, she is now a fortress to strengthen our faith.
v.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Entrance of the Theotokos
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today is the prelude fo the benevolence of God, and
the announcement of the salvation of men. In the Temple of God, the
Virgin is seen openly, foretelling to all the coming of Christ. Wherefore
let us cry to her in a loud voice: <169>Hail! O fulfillment of the
Creator's Plan.<170>
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR SESSIONL = O virgins, praise the pure Mother of God; mothers,
chant of her; people, glorify her; and you priests, bless her! Only
an infant, she is presented to the Temple of the Law as the all-holy
Temple of the Lord. For this reason, celebrating this spiritual feast,
let us sing, <169>Hail, O Virgin, glory of the human race!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O Virgins, praise...
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = O David, go into the Temple of God and receive our
Queen with joy as you say to her, <169>O Lady, you enter into the
Temple of the King; all your glory is from within, for from you will
flow milk and honey, the Light of Christ!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O David, go into...
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Apostles
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = We praise those stars who bathe the world in light,
those apostles: Philemon, Archippos, Onesimos, and Apphias. We cry
out and say, <169>Pray without ceasing for us all!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Entrance of the Theotokos
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The most pure Temple of our Holy Savior, and the
most precious and bright Bridal Chamber, the Virgin, sacred treasury
of the glory of God, openly appears today in the Temple of the Lord,
bringing with her the grace of the Most Holy Spirit. Wherefore the
angels of God are singing: <169>This is the heavenly Tabernacle.<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Seeing the grace of the secret mysteries of God made
manifest and clearly fulfilled in the Virgin, I rejoice. And I know
not how to understand the strange and secret manner whereby the pure
one has been revealed as alone chosen above all creation, visible
and spiritual. Therefore, wishing to praise her, I am struck dumb
with amazement in both mind and speech. Yet still I dare to proclaim
and magnify her: This is the heavenly Tabernacle.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 22, we commemorate the holy apostles Philemon,
Archippos, Apphias, and Onesimos, who were among the Seventy and were
disciples of the Apostle Paul.
@SYNAX INDENT = The Apostles of Christ ran the wondrous course to
glory at the call of their Master. On the twenty-second, Philemon
died in pain, but he found the source of that life where there is
no pain.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the holy martyrs Cecilia,
Valerian, and Tiburtios.
@SYNAX INDENT = After having suffered burns in the bath house, Cecilia
was bathed in the streams of her own blood. Without protest, Tiburtios
and Valerian endured the blow of the sword for the sake of the Almighty.
@SYNAX LEFT = Through the prayers of Your saints, O Christ our God,
have pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O Apostles who saw the Word with your own eyes, Philemon,
Archippos, and Apphias, in company with the martyr Cecilia, entreat
the Creator for the faithful who celebrate your sacred memory, that
He may grant us the remission of our sins: for you are charged with
interceding for us before the Master.
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = Today, the lamb without blemish, the spotless Virgin,
makes her wondrous entrance into the Temple. The army of Angels, the
hosts of bodiless powers, form an escort for her together with her
maiden companions. Full of joy, the holy Priest receives her in his
arms.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
4.
as a radiant beam upon the inhabited world in order to drive away
the shadows of evil and to enlighten the hearts darkened by ignorance
and the onslaught of the passions.
3.
2.
brilliance of the virtues and the light of a Faith more resplendent
than the sun, O Apphias, all-worthy of our hymns, for the whole divine
mystery was revealed to you; thus you exult with the angels in heaven.
1.
God, Archippos and Onesimos, the great martyrs, the Apostles above
sharing the heavenly splendor before the throne of God's glory, as
they ask remission of sins for us all.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@AFTR PRAISES = Today, the Theotokos, the Temple that is to hold God,
is led into the Temple of the Lord, and Zechariah receives her. Today,
the Holy of Holies rejoices greatly, and the choir of Angels mystically
keeps feast. With them, let us also celebrate this festival today,
and let us cry aloud with Gabriel: <169>Hail, O full of grace! The
Lord is with you, and He has given you great mercy!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
1.
very Holy of Holies, the Holy One who dwells among the Holy: the Mother
of God.
v.
2.
Addressing you with a greeting, Gabriel cries out, <169>It is God
Himself whom you will bear!<170>
v.
Temple of the King.
3.
from you has been born the spotless one who is now offered to the
Creator.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR APOSTICA = The three-lamped Light, who enkindles you as a lamp
in the Temple of His glory, O Mother of God, sends you food from heaven
and magnifies you.
@RUBRIC = The rest of Orthros as usual. After the Trisagion prayers,
the Troparion of the Entrance only.
@DATE = November 23
@FEAST TITLE = Third day of the Entrance; Commemoration of our Fathers
among the Saints Gregory, Bishop of Agrigentum, and Amphilochios,
Bishop of Iconium
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For Gregory
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
6.
to the Creator of all, to whom you were united by a constant inclination.
In His light, you surmounted the night of the passions and were radiant
with the light of healing and the power of miracles, driving away
all types of illness and the spirits of error.
5.
light in all its purity in your spirit, you brought peace to the troubled
sea of the passions. Lifted up on the wings of the condition of impassibility,
you were joined to the ineffable and prodigious beauty of Him whom
you entreat at all times for us the faithful who ceaselessly acclaim
you.
4.
of chastity, a support for monks, a light of charity, a pillar for
the Church, the throne of the Faith, a source of miracles, a tongue
of fire, an eloquent mouth, an instrument of the Holy Spirit, a spiritual
Paradise, O blessed Gregory!
@BOLD TITLE = For Amphilochios
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
3.
mastery of your spirit over your passions, O blessed father, you wisely
used the scale of equity to grant dominion to the higher things over
the lower. Thus, you were able to see and comprehend God, O inspired
hierarch.
2.
theology, you broke the nets and destroyed the snares of heresies.
You rejected the doctrines sustaining division and contraction, O
venerable father, and you remained within the limits of the Faith,
preaching the Trinity in the divine Unity.
1.
earth, you would not greet his own son. Thus you made him understand
that in refusing worship to the Son, the Father is gravely offended,
insulting Him who in a wondrous fashion had begotten and known Him
as the bodiless and impassible Son from before all ages.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@BODY TXT IND = Come, O faithful, let us praise her who is undefiled;
she who was foretold by the prophets and offered in the Temple, the
Mother preordained before all ages, who in this last time has been
shown forth as the Theotokos. O Lord, at her intercession, grant us
Your peace and great mercy.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
1.
be brought into the Temple of the Lord, O pure Virgin, as foretold
by the prophet David, the ancestor of God. They escort you, as the
holy Ark of God, into the Holy of Holies.
v.
2.
which are words inspired by the Spirit, let us joyfully weave a crown
of praises for the Virgin. Thus, as is fitting, let us prepare a gift
for her on these days of the feast.
v.
Temple of the King.
3.
and let the human race keep feast. Let the angels exult with us, celebrating
the Entrance of the Mother of God!
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 5)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Behold! The day of joy and the most venerable season
are here! For the one who was a Virgin before giving birth remained
a perfect Virgin, even after she gave birth. She is presented today
to the holy Temple, to the great admiration of the high priest Zechariah,
the father of the Forerunner, who cries out with joy: <169>Behold,
the hope of the afflicted is coming near! She is holy, and she is
vowed to be the dwelling-place of the King of all! Let Joachim rejoice
and Anne dance with glee, for they have presented to God the Lady
spotless and all-blameless, when she was only three years old. O mothers,
rejoice! You virgins, be merry! Barren ones, share your happiness!
The Queen of all, the one whom God prepared from all eternity, has
opened to us the kingdom of heaven. Rejoice, O nations of the world,
and be glad!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Fathers
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O God of our fathers, who always deal with us according
to Your everlasting compassion: do not withdraw Your mercy from us,
but through the prayers of our Fathers Gregory and Amphilochios, guide
our lives along the ways of peace.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Feast
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today is the prelude of the benevolence of God and
the announcement of the salvation of men. In the Temple of God, the
Virgin is seen openly, foretelling to all the coming of Christ. Wherefore
let us cry to her in a loud voice: <169>Hail! O fulfillment of the
Creator's Plan.<170>
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR SESSIONL = The fruit of the righteous Joachim and Anne is brought
as an offering to God in the holy sanctuary; it is she who sustains
our life, and she is a young child in the flesh. She receives the
blessing of Zechariah the priest. Let all of us in faith call her
blessed, for she is the Mother of the Lord.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
The fruit of the righteous Joachim and Anne...
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Before your conception, O pure Virgin, you were consecrated
to God. And now, after your birth, you are offered as a gift to Him,
in fulfillment of your parents' promise. To the divine Temple you
are brought, yourself a Temple truly divine, innocent from the time
you were a baby. You have appeared in the sanctuary accompanied by
brightly burning lamps, and you are the receiver of the Divine Light
that no man can approach. Magnificent in truth is your entry, O only
Bride of God and ever-Virgin.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Before your conception...
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Entrance
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The most pure Temple of our Holy Savior, and the
most precious and bright Bridal Chamber, the Virgin, sacred treasury
of the glory of God, openly appears today in the Temple of the Lord,
bringing with her the grace of the Most Holy Spirit. Wherefore the
angels of God are singing: <169>This is the heavenly Tabernacle.<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Seeing the grace of the secret mysteries of God made
manifest and clearly fulfilled in the Virgin, I rejoice. And I know
not how to understand the strange and secret manner whereby the pure
one has been revealed as alone chosen above all creation, visible
and spiritual. Therefore, wishing to praise her, I am struck dumb
with amazement in both mind and speech. Yet still I dare to proclaim
and magnify her: This is the heavenly Tabernacle!
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Gregory
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The Church shines with the splendor of the Holy Spirit
upon those who celebrate your joyful passage into eternal life, O
most blessed father Gregory.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Amphilochios
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Since you are highly placed among the elect, God
has chosen you by special grace to be an admirable shepherd for the
salvation of many. Indeed, Amphilochios, you proved yourself an outstanding
pontiff and a leader of Christians, who dispelled heresies through
your piety and devotion.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Divine thunder, trumpet of the Spirit, planter of the
Faith, known as a fighter of heresies, O Amphilochios, blessed hierarch,
sublime servant of the Holy Trinity: as you live with the Angels forever,
do not cease to intercede for us all through your piety and devotion.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 23, we commemorate our father among the
Saints, Amphilochios, Bishop of Iconium.
@SYNAX INDENT = Although he left his humble effects behind on earth,
Amphilochios lives on after death. By his work, he unravels the webs
spun by the enemy. The Saint fell asleep in peace on the twenty-third.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate our father among the
Saints, Gregory, Bishop of Agrigentum.
@SYNAX INDENT = For the divine Word who rules all things, Agrigentum
is bid farewell by Gregory, its pastor.
@SYNAX LEFT = By the prayers of Your saints, O Christ our God, take
pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O venerable hierarchs, God-bearing shepherds, true
sheep of the Shepherd and Lamb, blessed Amphilochios and Gregory:
intercede for us who celebrate your sacred memory, that we may escape
all dangers of body and soul.
@AFTR EXAPOST = The interior of the sanctuary received you from the
hands of the high priest, O Virgin Theotokos. From the age of three
years, until you were twelve, you dwelt there, fed by the hand of
a divine angel, as the holy Ark of the Creator of all.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
1.
the venerable Mother of God, and we below are now united to those
above.
v.
2.
divine canticle as they escorted toward the Temple of God the only
all-spotless Virgin.
v.
Temple of the King.
3.
very Holy of Holies, the Holy One who dwells among the Holy: the Mother
of God.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Let us celebrate this day, O assembly of the faithful,
as a spiritual feast. With great love, let us honor the maiden of
God, the Virgin and Mother of God, as she is presented to the Temple
of the Lord, for she has been chosen from among all the generations
to be the dwelling place of Christ, the King of us all. Behold! You
virgins, come forth and enter, holding your flaming torches in honor
of the entrance of the ever-Virgin. You mothers, cast away sadness
and regret and follow the one who became the Mother of God and the
cause of joy to the whole world, and glorify her. Then let us all
together cry out in joy, with the angel, our salutation to the Woman
full of grace, who is always interceding for our souls.
@RUBRIC = After the Trisagion Prayers, only the Troparion of the Feast.
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 24
@FEAST TITLE = Fourth Day of the Entrance; Commemoration of our Fathers
among the Saints, the Hieromartyrs Clement, Pope of Rome, and Peter,
Bishop of Alexandria
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For Clement
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
6.
you bore the wondrous grapes of your teachings from which continually
flows the saving wine of the knowledge of God that brings joy to the
hearts of all those who sincerely venerate you, O blessed and God-bearing
father Clement.
5.
rock as a precious gemstone, illustrious father. Using your words
as a lever, you cast down all the shrines of the idols, then built
up divine temples in honor of the Holy Trinity for whom you struggled.
O blessed father, you received the crown of martyrdom as your reward.
4.
and the earth was brightly illumined by your wondrous teachings as
well as by your wounds. Having reached the regions of the East, you
set in death. Then you dawned again, O blessed Clement, forever close
to Christ in a divine communion, enlightened by the splendor which
shines in the Age to Come.
@BOLD TITLE = For Peter
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
3.
Trinity, O blessed one, you overthrew Arianism as you showed us that
the Son underwent no division, since He shares the same Divinity with
the Father and the Spirit.
2.
ceased, both sealed by your sacred martyrdom, just as the massacre
at the time of the infant Moses was once stopped by the decision of
Shiphrah.
1.
you courageously waged your struggle as a martyr, and thus you received
a double crown, adorned at the same time for both your priesthood
and your struggles as an athlete. Intercede then for our salvation.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Having turned your spirit away from the tyranny of
the passions, you were gifted with the knowledge of beings, O holy
hierarch Clement. Thus, He who is the Being of all beings has led
you, through Peter, the Prince of the Apostles, who initiated you
into the knowledge of God and left you as his worthy successor. After
wisely guiding the church after him, by your martyrdom you went back
reverently to him, united in all purity to the divine Being. We entreat
you to intercede ceaselessly before Him, that we too may be divinized,
O apostolic hierarch and martyr.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@BODY TXT IND = O Lady, Bride of God, you entered the Temple of God
in your infancy to be brought up in the Holy of Holies, for you are
holy. There the Archangel Gabriel was sent to serve you and bring
you food. All the heavenly Powers were amazed at the sight of the
Holy Spirit dwelling in you. Wherefore, O pure Mother of God, all-blameless,
glorified in heaven and on earth, save our race!
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
1.
of God. O maidens, with your lamps enkindled, joyfully acclaim the
only spotless Virgin, who enters into the Temple of the Creator.
v.
2.
with faith receive the pure Mother of her God at her entrance, for
she is the joy of all. Let them cry out, <169>Divine, ever-virgin
Mother, you are blessed among women!<170>
v.
Temple of the King.
3.
to the world as higher than all creation. Piously led into the House
of God, she fulfills the vow of her parents, and she is preserved
by the Holy Spirit.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Consecrated a hierarch by the hand of God, named
after the Key-Bearer and imitator of his deeds, you pastured the mystical
sheep in the meadows of the Gospel as a true and good shepherd. As
a worthy successor to holy Mark, in your martyr's blood you followed
the course of the Faith to a good end, as you were sacrificed for
the people, in the image of Christ. Intercede for our souls before
Him.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR APOSTICA = David prophesied about you, O spotless one, foretelling
your entrance into the Temple and your dedication. Keeping this feast
today, the ends of the earth glorify you, O woman worthy of our praise.
Zechariah rejoices as he receives you at your entry today into the
Temple, O Mother of the Word of Life, who were a virgin before childbirth
and remained a virgin after childbirth. The Holy of Holies exults
as it welcomes you who sustain our life. Therefore, we too cry out
to you in song: <169>Entreat your Son and God on our behalf, that
we may be granted great mercy!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Fathers
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O God of our Fathers who always deal with us according
to Your everlasting compassion, do not withdraw your mercy from us,
but through the prayers of our fathers, Clement and Peter, guide our
lives along the ways of peace.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Feast
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today is the prelude of the benevolence of God, and
the announcement of the salvation of men. In the Temple of God, the
Virgin is seen openly, foretelling to all the coming of Christ. Wherefore
let us cry to her in a loud voice: <169>Hail! O fulfillment of the
Creator's Plan.<170>
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Today the universe is filled with joy on the august
festivity of the Mother of God, and it sings, <169>Behold the heavenly
Tabernacle!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Today the universe is filled with joy...
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = In a wondrous manner, the sheep without blemish,
the spotless bride, the Mother of God, is led with joy into the Temple
of the Lord; the Angels of God radiantly accompany her, and the faithful
call her blessed through all generations. With thanksgiving, they
ceaselessly sing aloud to her, <169>O Spotless Virgin, you are our
salvation and our glory!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = In a wondrous manner...
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Peter
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You brightened the Church through your orthodox teaching
and defended it by refuting the heresy of Arius, O blessed Peter.
Wherefore, we celebrate your holy memory and cry out: <169>Joy to
you, Peter, rock of the Faith!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Fathers
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Clement and Peter worthy of all praise, holy and
unassailable stronghold of the Church and inspired models of piety
and devotion: guard us all through your intercession.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Those who shine over the world by the ineffable splendor
of their holy, unchanging, and firm confession today exult with joy.
It is the splendid vine-branch of Christ, Clement, who nourishes the
world with the grapes of the knowledge of God. It is Peter, the unshakeable
rock, the foundation of the teachings of the Savior. They are both
servants of divine grace, initiates in ineffable wisdom, fervent defenders
of the holy Church. They bring relief to those afflicted with all
types of evils and save the faithful who sing, <169>Guard us through
your intercession!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Feast
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The most pure Temple of our Holy Savior, and the
most precious and bright Bridal Chamber, the Virgin, sacred treasury
of the glory of God, openly appears today in the Temple of the Lord,
bringing with her the grace of the Most Holy Spirit. Wherefore the
angels of God are singing: <169>This is the heavenly Tabernacle.<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Seeing the grace of the secret mysteries of God made
manifest and clearly fulfilled in the Virgin, I rejoice. And I know
not how to understand the strange and secret manner whereby the pure
one has been revealed as alone chosen above all creation, visible
and spiritual. Therefore, wishing to praise her, I am struck dumb
with amazement in both mind and speech. Yet still I dare to proclaim
and magnify her: This is the heavenly Tabernacle.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 24, we commemorate our Father among the
Saints, Clement, Bishop of Rome.
@SYNAX INDENT = An anchor tied around his neck, then thrown into the
depths, after the harsh exile which his faith had earned, Clement
is united to Christ, our anchor of salvation. On the twenty-fourth,
he set out on his last voyage.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the holy hieromartyr
Peter, Bishop of Alexandria.
@SYNAX INDENT = He had seen the tunic of Christ rent asunder; under
the blow of the sword, his faith remained intact.
@SYNAX LEFT = By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and
save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = The august day has dawned which brings us the illustrious
successors of the divine Apostles: Peter and Clement, those heralds
of the Faith, those invincible martyrs. O faithful, let us celebrate
their annual memorial.
@AFTR EXAPOST = In faith let us praise Mary, the child of God, whom
long ago the assembly of prophets foretold, speaking of her as the
vessel of manna and Aaron's rod, tablet of the Law and uncut mountain.
For she is led today into the Holy of Holies, there to be brought
up for the Lord.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
4.
Clement, whom mystical showers have made a fertile vine-branch, bearing
fruit that is distilled sweetly in the doctrine of salvation, a wine
that refreshes and brings joy to the hearts of the faithful each day.
O martyr unconquered in combat, pillar upholding the Church, heavenly
man, refuge of believers: entreat Christ to grant great mercy to our
souls.
3.
ineffable secrets and fountain of doctrine, base and pillar upon which
the Church is firmly supported without fear of being shaken, exact
rule and all-wise writer, learned tongue which is sharpened to cut
down heresies like a two-edged sword, heavenly spirit, melodious instrument,
solid pride of hieromartyrs, holy Clement: entreat Christ to grant
great mercy to our souls.
2.
your spirit and your faith over the passions. Unshakeable, you endured
a bitter end and death by a sword. Through it, you found blessedness
in the presence of God and deserved to taste the delights and sweet
communion with the Savior. O rock of the Faith, jewel of hierarchs
and glory of martyrs: entreat Christ to grant great mercy to our souls.
1.
your crown of martyrdom, you stand in the presence of Christ our God,
who is Himself the great High Priest and first of martyrs. You received
a double reward from His hands, O blessed one. You acknowledged Him
to be of the same Essence and eternity as His Father, sharing the
same royal throne with Him, In this, you cut off the infamous Arius
from the assembly of the faithful: entreat Christ to grant great mercy
to our souls.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@AFTR PRAISES = Today, the Theotokos, the Temple that is to hold God,
is led into the Temple of the Lord, and Zechariah receives her. Today,
the Holy of Holies rejoices greatly, and the choir of angels mystically
keeps feast. With them, let us also celebrate this festival today,
and let us cry aloud with Gabriel: <169>Hail, O full of grace! The
Lord is with you, and He has given you great mercy!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
1.
of His glory, O Mother of God, sends you food from heaven and magnifies
you.
v.
2.
Addressing you with a greeting, Gabriel cries out, <169>It is God
Himself whom you will bear!<170>
v.
Temple of the King.
3.
from you has been born the spotless one who is now offered to the
Creator.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR APOSTICA = O heavenly gates, receive the Virgin Mary, the Mother
of God, who will make room for the redemption of mankind without knowing
man.
@RUBRIC = After the Trisagion Prayers, only the Troparion of the Entrance.
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 25
@FEAST TITLE = Leave-taking of the Entrance; Commemoration of the
Holy Great-martyr of Christ and Most Wise Catherine of Alexandria,
and of the Holy Great-martyr Mercury
@FEAST TITLE = (3rd Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@FIRST KATHIS = First Kathisma: Blessed the man
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@BOLD TITLE = For the Feast
6.
to the Lord and hymns of praise in honor of Mary, His Mother, His
holy Tabernacle, the Ark that contained the Word whom nothing can
contain. She is offered to God as a child in a marvelous way, and
Zechariah, the high priest, receives her with great joy, for she is
the dwelling-place of the Most High.
5.
Mary, the pure and blessed one, is presented to the Temple of Moses
to live in its holy precincts. Joachim and Anne rejoice with her in
the Spirit, and all the virgins sing hymns of praise to the Lord in
honor of His Mother.
4.
of the prophets and the glory of the Apostles. You are the pride of
the martyrs and the cause of renewal for the whole human race, for
through you, we have been reconciled to God. Wherefore we honor your
entrance into the Temple of the Lord, repeating to you the salutation
of the angel, for we are saved through your intercession, O most honorable
one!
@BOLD TITLE = For Catherine
3.
from birth and possesses your divine temple; thus, O Catherine, we
celebrate your sacred memory with faith. Intercede for the faithful
who venerate you.
2.
her words and her deeds, she was able to destroy the power of the
enemy and confound the arguments of the orators. By her prayers, O
our God, deliver us from heresies.
1.
had your body transported to Mount Sinai, where Moses beheld the unconsumed
bush. There He preserves you until the time of His second coming.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@BODY TXT IND = On the feast of Catherine, wise in God, O friends
of the martyrs, let us hasten in joy to crown her with our praises
as with flowers. Let us say to her, <169>Hail, for you refuted the
insolent babbling of the orators and led them from ignorance to faith
in God! Hail, for through love for your Creator you handed over your
body to countless torments, resisting like an anvil without being
burned! Hail, for by your pains you attained the dwellings above,
where you rejoice in eternal glory, the object of our desires! May
the hopes of those who sing to you never be disappointed!<170>
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@BODY TXT IND = O Lady, Bride of God, you entered the Temple of God
in your infancy to be brought up in the Holy of Holies, for you are
holy. There the Archangel Gabriel was sent to serve you and bring
you food. All the heavenly Powers were amazed at the sight of the
Holy Spirit dwelling in you. Wherefore, O pure Mother of God, all
blameless, glorified in heaven and on earth, save our race!
@RUBRIC = Entrance. <169>O Joyful Light!<170> Prokimenon of the Day.
At the discretion of the Ecclesiarch, three prophecies may be read:
1) Isaiah 43:9-14 2) Wisdom 3:1-9 3) Wisdom 5:15-6:3.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Feast
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
1.
heaven, the Virgin spotless and pure, coming to the holy Temple to
be brought up in honor. Zechariah had this to say to her: <169>O Door
of the Lord, to you I open the doors of the Temple! Enter with joy,
for I know and believe that the salvation of Israel will come now,
and from you will be born the Word of God, who grants great mercy
to the world!<170>
v.
2.
Mary, she presented her to the Temple of God and called her little
companions to carry flaming torches and walk before her. And she said,
<169>Go, my child, to the One who sent you to me, for you are promised
to Him by vow; you are an incense of delicate fragrance. Enter into
the veiled places and learn the mysteries of God. Prepare yourself
to be a delightful dwelling-place for Jesus, who grants great mercy
to the world.<170>
v.
Temple of the King.
3.
the Virgin most holy, is placed today within the Temple of God. Little
girls walk before her in procession, carrying flaming torches. Let
her parents, the devoted couple, Joachim and Anne, be filled with
joy, for they have given birth to the one who gave birth in the flesh
to the Creator. She is the spotless one who is all happiness in the
heavenly mansions of the Temple. An Angel will feed her because she
is to become the Mother of Christ who grants great mercy to us all.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@BODY TXT IND = Bodiless was the life you led; thus, before the tribunal
of the godless, O Catherine, you triumphed. You bore the splendor
of our God as a radiant garment. Robed in the strength of God, you
laughed at the command of the tyrant and brought an end to the babbling
of the orators.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Let us celebrate this day, O assembly of the faithful,
as a spiritual feast. With great love, let us honor the maiden of
God, the Virgin and Mother of God, as she is presented to the Temple
of the Lord, for she has been chosen from among all the generations
to be the dwelling-place of Christ, the King of us all. Behold! You
virgins, come forth and enter, holding your flaming torches in honor
of the entrance of the ever-virgin. You mothers, cast away sadness
and regret and follow the one who became the Mother of God and cause
of joy to the whole world, and glorify her. Let us then all together
cry out in joy with the angel our salutation to the Woman full of
grace, who is always interceding for our souls!
@BODY TXT IND =
@RUBRIC = At the discretion of the Ecclesiarch, the Aposticha of Mercury
may be used, rather than those of the Feast, above.
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of Mercury
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
1.
O Mercury, as an unconquerable soldier you dismembered the myriads
of demons with the weapons of our Faith. Having waged your combat
according to the rules, you received your crown with all the Athletes,
O blessed martyr.
v.
cedar.
2.
to heal your wounds, O wondrous martyr. Strengthened by him, you endured
piercing by burning hot spikes and hanging, weighted down with a stone,
until your blood poured forth profusely from your body.
v.
all His good pleasure is upon them.
3.
king who ordered you to sacrifice to demons, you endured the torments
of a violent death. Wearing your crown, you went up to Christ, to
be united to the multitude of martyrs, with whom you intercede for
us.
v.
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
Bodiless was the life you led...
v.
@TONE # = (Tone 6)
Let us celebrate this day, O assembly...
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Entrance of the Theotokos
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today is the prelude of the benevolence of God, and
the announcement of the salvation of men. In the Temple of God, the
Virgin is seen openly, foretelling to all the coming of Christ. Wherefore
let us cry out to her in a loud voice: <169>Hail, O fulfillment of
the Creator's plan!<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Catherine
@TONE # = (Tone 5)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Let us sing of the illustrious bride of Christ, holy
Catherine, the protectress of Sinai, who is our refuge and our help.
With the sword of the Spirit, she brilliantly silenced the sophistry
of the impious; as a crowned martyr, she forever entreats great mercy
for us all.
v.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Mercury
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Lord our God, Your holy martyr Mercury has deserved
the crown of immortality on account of his good fight. Armed with
Your strength, he has vanquished his persecutors and crushed Satan's
dreadful might. Through his supplications, O Christ God, save our
souls!
v.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Entrance of the Theotokos
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today is the prelude of the benevolence of God, and
the announcement of the salvation of men. In the Temple of God, the
Virgin is seen openly, foretelling to all the coming of Christ. Wherefore
let us cry to her in a loud voice: <169>Hail! O fulfillment of the
Creator's Plan!<170>
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@RUBRIC = Use the Festal Format.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR SESSIONL = The fruit of the righteous Joachim and Anne is brought
as an offering to God in the holy sanctuary; it is she who sustains
our life, and she is a young child in the flesh. She receives the
blessing of Zechariah the priest. Let all of us in faith call her
blessed, for she is the Mother of the Lord.
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = The fruit of the righteous Joachim and Anne...
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Before your conception, O pure Virgin, you were consecrated
to God. And now, after your birth, you are offered as a gift to Him,
in fulfillment of your parents' promise. To the divine Temple you
are brought, yourself a Temple truly divine, innocent from the time
you were a baby. You have appeared in the sanctuary accompanied by
brightly burning lamps, and you are the receiver of the Divine Light
that no man can approach. Magnificent in the truth is your entry,
O only bride of God and ever-virgin!
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Before your conception...
@RUBRIC = The Polyeleos and Gospel must be sung in churches of which
St. Catherine is the titular. They may also be sung in other churches
at the discretion of the Ecclesiarch.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Polyeleos
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR SESSIONL = Let David the psalmist rejoice greatly; let Joachim
and Anne be glad, for a holy child has come forth from them: Mary,
the Lamp that bears the divine Light. And she rejoices as she enters
the Temple. The son of Barachiah, beholding her, gave her his blessing,
and cried out in joy: <169>Hail, O wonder of the world!<170>
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Let David the psalmist rejoice...
@BOLD TITLE = Prokimenon
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
God is wonderful among His Saints, the God of Israel.
v.
all His good pleasure is upon them.
@RUBRIC = Gospel for Catherine. Psalm 50.
v.
Through the intercession of Your holy martyr, O merciful One, wipe
out the multitude of our sins.
v.
Through the intercession of the Theotokos, O merciful One, wipe out
the multitude of our sins.
v.
abundance of Your tender mercies, wipe out my offense.
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR PROKIM = Bodiless was the life you led; thus, before the tribunal
of the godless, O Catherine, you triumphed. You bore the splendor
of our God as a radiant garment. Robed in the strength of God, you
laughed at the command of the tyrant and brought an end to the babbling
of the orators.
@RUBRIC = Canons: Canon II of the Feast, then the Canon of Catherine,
and that of Mercury.
@RUBRIC = After Ode 3:
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of the Entrance
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The most pure Temple of our Holy Savior, and the
most precious and bright Bridal Chamber, the Virgin, sacred treasury
of the glory of God, openly appears today in the Temple of the Lord,
bringing with her the grace of the Most Holy Spirit. Wherefore the
angels of God are singing: <169>This is the heavenly Tabernacle.<170>
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Seeing the grace of the secret mysteries of God made
manifest and clearly fulfilled in the Virgin, I rejoice. And I know
not how to understand the strange and secret manner whereby the pure
one has been revealed as alone chosen above all creation, visible
and spiritual. Therefore, wishing to praise her, I am struck dumb
with amazement in both mind and speech. Yet still I dare to proclaim
and magnify her: This is the heavenly Tabernacle!
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Mercury
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You penetrated the holy mysteries and became an agreeable
holocaust, O wise Mercury, for you drank with eagerness of the cup
of Christ. Wherefore, you now constantly intercede for us all.
@RUBRIC = After Ode 6:
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Catherine
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Let all of us who love to honor the martyrs form
a great choir and praise the most wise Catherine, for she preached
Christ and trampled the serpent, despising the art of orators.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Having received the wisdom of God from infancy, the martyr
was also fully formed in the wisdom of this world. Through it, she
recognized both the importance of reason in the formation and evolution
of the elements, and Him who by His word called them all into being.
Day and night, she gave thanks to Him, and she overthrew the idols
and their foolish worshippers, despising the art of orators.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 25, we commemorate the holy Great-martyr
Catherine.
@SYNAX INDENT = To her great wisdom, Catherine joined the glory of
martyrdom and virginity. She triumphed as she enjoyed debating in
oratory. On the twenty-fifth, she offered herself to Christ by being
beheaded.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate the passion of the holy
Great-martyr Mercury.
@SYNAX INDENT = By his death under the sword, Mercury brought about
a weakening of the enemies of Christ.
@SYNAX LEFT = By the prayers of Your saints, O Christ our God, take
pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O Catherine, venerable virgin, glory of martyrs, you
strengthen the courage of all women. You rejected as myths and foolishness
the thoughts of philosophers who did not know the true God, for you
had as your help the divine and all-pure Mother.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Having broken the attack of the enemy and brought
about the complete collapse of the demons' insolence, you received
a crown from your Creator's hand as a true witness, O blessed Mercury.
You save us from all snares set for us by the enemy.
@AFTR EXAPOST = The interior of the sanctuary received you from the
hands of the high priest, O Virgin Theotokos. From the age of three
years, until you were twelve, you dwelt there, fed by the hands of
a divine angel, as the holy Ark of the Creator of all.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@BOLD TITLE = For the Entrance of the Theotokos
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
6.
ever-Virgin, truly prophesy the future in the Spirit. For the Temple
of God, the Theotokos, with virginal glory enters as a little child
into the Temple.
5.
to the world as higher than all creation. Piously led into the house
of God, she fulfills the vow of her parents and she is preserved by
the Holy Spirit.
4.
Lord, you brought forth for the world the Bread of Life that is the
Word. As His chosen Temple without spot, you were betrothed mystically
through the Spirit to be the Bride of God the Father.
@BOLD TITLE = For Catherine
@TONE # = (Tone 4)
3.
Catherine, we glorify with unceasing voices the Lord Jesus, the Lover
of Mankind and our Savior, who endowed you with patience and perseverance.
He made you triumphant by granting you an eloquence that astounded
the orators.
2.
witness as a martyr. You checkmated the tyrant, and by the grace of
God, you overthrew the foolish worship of many idols by the light
of the knowledge of the one true God. Thus, Christ, the Savior of
our souls, crowned you as a martyr and blameless virgin.
1.
the Spirit, O illustrious Catherine. He made you eager to keep your
life in purity; by your patience, you triumphed over the arrogance
of the tyrants. Then, in exchange for bodily beauty, you obtained
a splendor of soul, O pride of martyrs.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR PRAISES = Bodiless was the life you led; thus, before the tribunal
of the godless, O Catherine, you triumphed. You bore the splendor
of our God as a radiant garment. Robed in the strength of God, you
laughed at the command of the tyrant and brought an end to the babbling
of the orators.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR PRAISES = Today the spotless Virgin is led to the Temple, to
become the dwelling-place of God, the King of all, who sustains our
life. Today, as a three-year-old victim of sacrifice, the most pure
Sanctuary is led into the Holy of Holies. To her let us cry out with
the angel: <169>Hail, you who alone are blessed among women!<170>
@RUBRIC = Great Doxology. Troparion of the Entrance.
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 26
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of our Holy Fathers Alypios the Stylite
and Nikon, the Preacher of Repentance
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@BOLD TITLE = For Alypios
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
6.
by Him, you submitted the lower to the higher, the bodily passions
to the spirit. O blessed Alypios, entreat the Lord, then, to grant
our souls peace and great mercy.
5.
splendor of your miracles and godly deeds. Thus, after your death,
you were received by the unsetting Light. Entreat Him to grant our
souls peace and great mercy.
4.
pillar, afflicted by hunger, heat, and cold. Thus you received from
the Spirit your divine charisms for healing maladies and putting passions
to flight.
@BOLD TITLE = For Nikon
@TONE # = (Tone 6)
3.
which you suffered. The splendor of your life, illumined by the Holy
Spirit, shone with ineffable power over the whole world. For in a
wondrous way God has magnified your relics, pouring out a stream of
healing upon the faithful. What a wonder, that the tomb could not
hinder your power, nor the sepulchre hold you away! Just as you preached
repentance to us before death, so after death you continue to turn
us to the grace of God.
2.
body of the blessed one is kept as a treasure. With our lamps enkindled,
let us chant to him in hymns: <169>Make haste , O holy Nikon: take
pity on our miseries! Snatch us from calamity and from the storm of
the passions, that we may glorify your reliquary and breathe your
sweet perfume as we venerate your sacred image.<170>
1.
O blessed father so worthy of our admiration because of the radiance
of your splendor. Grant it peace again; fill it with victory under
the protection of your holy intercession as it struggles against the
power of the enemies assailing it. Fill with your benefits the hearts
of those who sing to you, as you pray to God for our souls!
v.
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Virgin, in the purity of his heart, Isaiah saw from
afar that you would give birth to the Author of all creation, for
you alone, O spotless one, were seen to be without blemish from all
ages. Thus, I pray you to cleanse the stains of my heart and make
me share in the divine splendor of your Son. Allow me to stand at
His right hand when, as it is written, He shall take His seat to judge
the whole world.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = <169>O my Son, the judges of Israel decided to condemn
You to death, making You appear as an accused before the tribunal,
O Savior who judge the living and the dead. The impious handed You
over to Pilate for judgement, but they had already condemned You to
death before the sentence. Seeing this, I am wounded, O Lord, and
I share Your condemnation, for I prefer death rather than a life full
of grieving,<170> said the Mother of the God who is full of compassion.
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Alypios
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O holy Alypios, you have become a perfect example
of patience, for you have emulated two great Patriarchs: Job in his
tribulations and Joseph in his trials. And even while in the flesh,
you resembled the angels of heaven. O our father Alypios, intercede
with Christ God that He may save our souls!
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Nikon
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR TROP/KON = Sparta rejoices because it holds your holy remains,
a source of healing and encouragement to those who have recourse to
you. Wherefore, O holy Nikon, intercede with Christ God that He may
grant us His great mercy.
@AFTR TROP/KON =
@VES/ORTH = ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Nikon
@TONE # = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TROP/KON = You followed the ways of angels by despising the
pleasures of this world and showed us the road of penance, O holy
and God-bearing Nikon. Wherefore, we venerate you and celebrate your
memory today: you are truly a fountain of healing.
@BOLD TITLE = Kontakion of Alypios
@TONE # = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TROP/KON = The Church glorifies and honors you today, Alypios,
perfect example of virtue and pride of the ascetics. Through your
prayers, grant release from their sins to those who eagerly venerate
your life and struggles.
@BOLD TITLE = Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Come, let us all admire the angelic and holy life of
the blessed Alypios and take him as our model, O hierarchs, kings
and princes, monks and all believers. By his prayers, may we be worthy
of the same destiny, O lovers of the feast: for he sings to God in
heaven, where there is no grief, as we venerate his life and struggles.
@BOLD TITLE = Synaxarion
@SYNAX LEFT = On November 26, we commemorate our venerable father
Alypios the Stylite.
@SYNAX INDENT = Since he already touched heaven from the height of
his pillar, Alypios had no need to travel far to find his immortal
crown on the twenty-sixth.
@SYNAX LEFT = On the same day, we commemorate our venerable father
Nikon, the Preacher of Repentance.
@SYNAX INDENT = The devil left Sparta in haste, for Nikon chased him
away with his miracles.
@SYNAX LEFT = Through the prayers of Your saints, O Christ our God,
take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@TONE # = (Tone 3)
@AFTR EXAPOST = O venerable father, you endured superhuman struggles
through the power of Christ, and you remained on your column in continuous
hardship for fifty-three years, O blessed Alypios. Now you have found
the most perfect of all goods.
@AFTR EXAPOST = The reliquary holding your illustrious body, O God-bearing
father Nikon, has become a spring flowing abundantly with healing
for all who draw near in faith.
@AFTR EXAPOST = O Virgin Mother of God Most High, all the angels and
archangels in their choirs sing your praises in heaven, and we on
earth glorify you with love.
@BOLD TITLE = Praises
@TONE # = (Tone 1)
4.
Nikon; you enlighten the spirits of those who celebrate your sacred
memory with faith as they assemble in your divine sanctuary, O God-bearing
and blessed father.
3.
2.
out to all men: <169>Repent with your whole heart, for the kingdom
of Christ is drawing near!<170> Intercede ceaselessly before Him on
behalf of us, the faithful, who glorify you.
1.
preaching of repentance. The city of Sparta recognized you as another
Moses, for you drove back the Egypt of the passions by your teaching
of conversion.
v.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR PRAISES = Venerable father, the whole world is filled with the
fame of your holy deeds; through them, you have received in heaven
the recompense of your labors. You destroyed hordes of demons and
have been united to the choirs of angels, whose pure lives you imitated.
By your boldness with Christ our God, ask peace for our souls.
v.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Comfort of the weak, consolation of the afflicted,
O Virgin Mother of God, save your Christian people: for you are peace
for the oppressed, rest for the shipwrecked, and the only protection
of believers.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing You upon the Cross, the all-holy Mother of God
cried out to You in tears: <169>O my Son and my God, O my beloved
Son, how can you suffer this unjust Passion?<170>
@RUBRIC = Aposticha of the Octoechos.
@RUBRIC =
@DATE = November 27
@FEAST TITLE = Commemoration of the Holy Great-Martyr James the Persian
@FEAST TITLE = (5th Class)
@VES/ORTH = VESPERS
@AT "O LORD = At <169>O Lord, to You I call...<170>
@TONE # = (Tone 2)
3.
well-being, renouncing even your body, which was cut to pieces, you
followed Christ with joy, O holy James. Since you took part in His
sufferings in truth, you share His glory and Kingdom forever.
2.
members of your body, O admirable witness of Christ, you courageously
trampled on the cruelty of the tyrants. As a conqueror, you received
the precious crown which you now wear, O blessed James, with the other
martyrs before the throne of your Master and Lord.
1.
martyr, be the