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Contents: v. 1 September v. 2 October v. 3 November v. 4 December v. 5 January v. 7 March 10. June v. 11. July 12. August.
1. Divine office - Texts. 2. Catholic Church - Byzantine Rite, Melkite - Liturgy - Texts. I. Melkite-Greek Catholic Eparchy of Newton (Mass.) II. Title. III. Series: Service Books of the Byzantine Churches; 3, etc.
BX4711.365.M56 1984 264'.015 83-26559
MENAION - JULY
July 1
Commemoration of the holy wonderworkers, Cosmas and Damian
(4th Class)
VESPERS
If the feast is to be celebrated with greater solemnity, the first Kathisma is sung.
At O Lord, to You I call...
For Cosmas and Damian
Tone 6
6. Having placed all their hope in heaven, these holy ones have 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. Having placed all their hope... (Repeat)
4. Disdaining corrupt matters, living like the angels in the flesh 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. Disdaining corrupt matters... (Repeat)
2. Having become the dwelling of the Holy Trinity, these brothers worthy of our praise, the wise Cosmas and Damian, pour forth a stream of healings 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. Having become the dwelling... (Repeat)
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
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 illnesses.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
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 commixtion or confusion. O noble and blessed Woman, intercede with Him that He may have mercy on our souls!
If the feast is celebrated with greater solemnity, there is an entrance. After the Prokimenon of the day, the following readings may be used:
1) Isaiah 43: 9-12; 2) Wisdom 3: 1-9; 3) Wisdom 5: 15-6:3.
Lete
Tone 2
The healing fountain cured only one man each year. Now the Temple of the moneyless wonderworkers heals a multitude of sufferers, for the treasury of the holy ones is abundant and never exhausted. By their intercession, O Christ, have pity on us.
Having lived in the love of God and the desire for future goods, 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.
O wondrous saints, providers of great gifts, you lived your lives 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.
The assembly of holy ones rejoice in heaven forever, for they have inherited the Kingdom. The earth, having received their bodies, is filled with sweet fragrance. The servants of Christ have their dwelling in eternal life.
Physicians of the sick, treasuries of cures, saviors of the faithful, glorious unmercenaries: heal those who call upon you in anguish in pain, entreating the good God to deliver us from the nets of the enemy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Tone 6
Today the memorial of the unmercenaries dawns upon us, shining with all light. The radiance of their miracles illumines us brightly. Come, O feast-lovers: let us hasten to receive their ever-prompt help in abundance; for, by the power of the Holy Spirit, they freely obtain the grace of healing for all.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
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 unmercenaries and all the saints that we may obtain mercy for our souls.
Aposticha
Tone 1
1. Let us all come together to commemorate the unmercenaries. With pure hearts and cleansed consciences, let us sing to them: "Hail to you both, O Physicians of the sick, who have received from God the power to heal!"
v. God has displayed wonders in the saints who dwell in His land; all His good pleasure is upon them.
2. In order to perfectly fulfill the teachings of the Lord, you wisely cut off the evil of greed; thus you freely healed. As is right, we venerate your holy dormition: O wonderworkers, intercede for our salvation!
v. Behold how good and pleasant it is for brothers to dwell in unity!
3. Since you received from God alone the power to heal and save from all dangers, deliver those who sing to you with faith: free their souls and bodies from all trials and pains, O holy God-bearing unmercenaries!
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
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 flows; emptied, 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. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
You do not repent, O my impatient soul! Why do you delay? Behold, death approaches you, and the end will overtake you like a thief. Make haste to prostrate before the Mother of God!
Troparion
Tone 8
O holy moneyless ones and wonderworkers, Cosmas and Damian, heal us of our diseases. You have received free gifts: freely give to us!
Resurrectional Theotokion
Tone 8
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.
ORTHROS
Use the Festal Format, for feasts of the Fourth Class
Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
Tone 8
Having wondrously received from Christ the heavenly gift of working miracles, you ceaselessly heal all types of illness; for the grace of the Spirit has been made manifest in you, granting you the power to work holy healings. Thus, without greed, by your faith you stored up for yourselves an abundant wealth of the goods which do not decay. O God-bearing wonder-workers, intercede before Christ our God that He grant remission of sins to those who wholeheartedly celebrate your holy memory.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
All human generations call you blessed, as the Virgin and only woman who without seed gave birth to God in the flesh; for in you, the Fire of the Divinity took up its dwelling, and you nourished at your breast your Lord and Creator. Thus, together with the angels, all mankind fittingly glorifies your all-holy maternity; and we join our voices to cry aloud: "All-pure one, intercede before your Son and God that He grant remission of their sins to the faithful who take refuge under your divine protection.
Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
Tone 4
O faithful, let us celebrate the radiant solemnity of the unmercenaries, entreating them to drive far from us all illness of body and soul.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
O unconquerable protectress of the afflicted, fervent guardian of those who place their hope in you: save me from danger, for you are the help of all!
Psalm 50. Canons of the Parakletike (or of the Mother of God), then that of the Saints in Tone 6, the work of Joseph.
@CANONS = CANON
Tone 6
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 1
@ODE TEXT = Crossing the deep like dry land, Israel saw the pursuing Pharaoh drowned in the waves. They exclaimed, "Let us sing a hymn of victory to God!"
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
O radiant unmercenary wonderworkers, who are illumined by the glory of God, come and shine within our hearts; drive off the darkness of the passions, that we may glorify you in faith.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
You were purified of the death-dealing passions by the offering you made of yourselves in your sufferings, O holy martyrs. Purify us also of all deadly illness, and relieve our souls of all evil.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
You received the power to work miracles from the King of All. O holy unmercenary wonderworkers, we entreat you to freely heal our countless sufferings and the incurable passions of our flesh.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
O spotless Virgin, beyond the laws of nature, you gave birth to the very Author of the Law, Jesus our Redeemer. Entreat Him to save us from our iniquities, O Theotokos!
Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = I shall open my mouth, and it shall be filled with the Spirit; and I shall sing a hymn to the Queen and Mother; with great joy I shall celebrate and sing her praise.
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 3
@ODE TEXT = No one is as holy as You, O Lord my God. You lift up the lot of Your faithful, O gracious Lord. You establish us firmly on the rock of faith.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
The whole world sings daily of your countless blessings and your many miracles, O wonderworking physicians, who have truly become equal to the angels.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
You are two radiant stars mystically shining in the firmament of the Church, O holy Cosmas and Damian. We entreat you to pour forth your light into our hearts.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Behold, people come to your holy temple from all directions, in order to sing of your sublime gifts, O holy martyrs. In return, hear the prayers of all!
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
By a word, you gave a body to the most holy Word. Deliver me from my passions, which do not conform to the Word of reason, for I sing divine canticles to you, O holy Virgin and spotless Queen.
Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = O Theotokos, living and overflowing fountain, strengthen those who sing your praise and who gather now to honor you; and on this occasion of your divine commemoration, deem them worthy of the glorious crown of heaven.
Little Litany.
Sessional Hymns
Tone 8
@AFTR SESSIONL = The grace of the Spirit reveals you to be wonderworking physicians, lamps shining with miracles in the sight of all. You pour forth the cool dew of your faith upon passions, thus refreshing the hearts of all believers. Thus, we take refuge in your holy temple as a place in which our souls find healing. O God-bearing unmercenaries, intercede with Christ our God that He grant remission of sins to those who wholeheartedly celebrate your holy memorial.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Entangled in the trials and temptations from my seen and unseen enemies, I am tossed about in the storm of my immense transgressions. But, knowing the fervor of your help and protection, I seek refuge in the calm harbor of your goodness. All-holy one, entreat Him who was incarnate of you without seed, on behalf of all your servants who ceaselessly sing to you. Intercede constantly before Him, that He grant remission of sins to those who prostrate before your virginal maternity.
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 4
@ODE TEXT = The Church sings: "Christ is my power, my Lord and my God!" With a beautiful hymn, she celebrates God in the integrity of her faith.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
Let us joyfully acclaim the holy unmercenaries as divine branches of that Vine which is Christ; for with their countless fruits, they provide for us the wine of faith.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
Like a two-edged sword, you have struck the invisible enemies; likewise, O holy unmercenaries, deliver us from their arrows and protect our lives.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
O holy unmercenaries, who does not possess you as wondrous intercessors before Christ our God? Entreat Him to deliver us from the eternal fires.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@ODE TEXT = Taking up Him dwelling in your womb, O all-pure one, the Lord became the fountain of countless healings and the bath which purifies us of our passions, O ever-Virgin Mother of our God.
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 aloud to Him: "Glory to Your power, O Christ!"
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 5
@ODE TEXT = Illumine with love the souls of those who offer this morning prayer to You by Your divine Light. Give them knowledge of Yourself, O true God, O Word of God! You call us out of the darkness of sin.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
These far-famed Saints, who wholeheartedly cherished the very Source of all Light, have found enlightenment before God; and they illumine us daily with their resplendent miracles.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
As a splendid team, O holy martyrs, you plow the fields of souls each day with your divine miracles, furrowing out the weeds of passions and producing the beautiful wheat of faith a hundredfold.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Strengthened by the power of Christ, you overcame the forces of him who is strong in evil; as our vigilant protectors, O unmercenaries, deliver us from his deadly tyranny.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@ODE TEXT = O Lady, deliver me from the seductions of the enemy, from slavery to the passions, and from the punishment of hell; do not permit that I, who sing to you, be lost.
Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = The whole universe is amazed at the sight of your divine glory: for you are a virgin and have not known man; and yet in your womb you have borne God, the Master of All. You have given birth to a Son who is not bound by time, a Son who grants salvation to those who sing your praise.
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 6
@ODE TEXT = I see the sea of life raging in a storm of temptations. I rush to Your quiet harbor. I call out to You: "Save my life from ruin, since You are so merciful!"
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
O unmercenaries who joyfully lodge in heaven, hasten to descend to your holy temple to dislodge from all illness from our bodies, and all passions from our hearts.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
O holy ones, you have been doubly clothed with the mantle of the splendor of God; clothe us with the virtues which we lack, and strip us of the shame of the passions.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Your strings of miracles adorn you like necklaces, as you are saviors to those who are in the world; O holy martyrs, deliver us from being surrounded by the depravity of the world, from burning passions, and from eternal punishment.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@ODE TEXT = Without burning your womb, Jesus, the divine Fire, has come forth from your flesh: O pure Virgin, entreat Him to save all those who sing to you from all punishment in fire.
Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = Come, all you people whose mind is on 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!
Little Litany.
Kontakion of Cosmas and Damian
Tone 2
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.
Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = The diagnosis of these skilled 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 the divine benefactors who grant a multitude of healings, for they deliver us from all pain and heal the world through their miracles.
Synaxarion
On July 1, we commemorate the holy unmercenary wonderworkers Cosmas and Damian, who were martyred in Rome.
@SYNAX INDENT = The murderous rocks which were hurled at them, were not able to separate the unmercenary brothers who were united to the true Rock. On July first, these two firm pillars were stoned to death.
By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
Ode 7
@ODE TEXT = The angel truly made the furnace a place of dew for the holy young men. When God's command inflamed the Chaldaeans, it made the torturer sing: "Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!"
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
Because of the blessings which you shared with all, you rose on spiritual wings toward heaven; and now, divinized in God, you soar over the whole world like eagles, as vigilant wonderworkers.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
Shining with divine grace, like purest gold, O unmercenaries, you have received the power to heal in abundance; take pity on us who tremble beneath the impact of so many trials.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
Holy unmercenaries, you commended your pure spirits to the Lord; and from Him, you have received the grace to drive away impure spirits at all times; deliver us from their deadly misdeeds.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
You rest in the sleep of the just, but you are still watchful intercessors for the faithful; put to sleep the passions of our souls and bodies.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@ODE TEXT = Never cease to entreat our God, the Lover of Mankind, that we be pardoned of all our sins, and that we find the good things prepared in heaven for those who love you, O all-spotless Virgin.
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: "You are worthy of all praise, O Lord, God our Fathers: blessed are You!"
Ode 8
@ODE TEXT = You showered the holy young men with dew in the fire. You burned the water-soaked sacrifice of Elijah. You do whatever You will, O Christ, for You can do all things. We praise You forever!
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
With the divine Spirit as your ally, you have declared war on all sufferings: heal all the illness of our souls and soothe the pain of our bodies.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
O God-bearers, you truly behold the splendor of your Master forever: visit this splendid temple which is consecrated to you, and make it a fountain of countless miracles.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
Like two rivers flowing from a fountain in Paradise, you water the whole face of the earth with the streams of your healings, as you dry up a flood of sicknesses.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
You have found blessedness in keeping with your spirit; now all generations rightly call you blessed, O unmercenaries, for you have done the will of our God.
v. We bless the Lord, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Healers of irremediable maladies, heal our incurable passions; calm the storm of temptations, and scatter the clouds of distress.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@ODE TEXT = With the angels in heaven, let us sing to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit: one unique Divinity in Three Persons, one unique Power and Kingdom!
Katavasia
@AFTR KATAVAS = The maternity of the Theotokos, prefigured by the three young men in the furnace, preserved them against the power of the fire; but now that this maternity has come to be accomplished, it brings the whole universe together and makes it sing: "Praise the Lord, all you His works, and exalt Him forever!"
Canticle of Mary
Ode 9
@ODE TEXT = Men cannot see God. Angel armies dare not gaze upon Him. God was shown to man by incarnation through you, most pure Lady. We glorify Him and with the heavenly hosts, we call you blessed.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
Behold, your temple shines brilliantly with your miracles, like resplendent stars. Joyfully, in one choir, we continually call you blessed; and today we reverently celebrate your sacred memory, O holy unmercenaries.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
Holy unmercenaries, you are robed with light, like two great suns, a mystic firmament; and you shine upon the hearts of believers with the rays of your miracles. Thus we entreat you: drive away the darkness of our passions.
v. Holy unmercenary wonderworkers, intercede for us!
From the dwellings which you inhabit in heaven, come invisibly among us who, in the midst of your temple, sing hymns to the All-powerful God, O illustrious martyrs: for we ceaselessly call you blessed.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Earth joins the joy of heaven, celebrating your holy and light-bearing solemnity. As we rejoice in you, O holy unmercenaries, deliver us from the scourge of maladies, from all anguish here below, and from eternal pain in the age to come.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@ODE TEXT = You have given birth in a wondrous manner, all-pure one! Deliver me from terrible condemnation on the day of awesome judgment; grant that I may find a place in the choir of the faithful who are saved, for I sing to you with faith, O Virgin who are filled with the grace of God!
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 this commemoration of the Theotokos and cry out, "Hail, glorious Theotokos, ever-pure and ever-virgin!"
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
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.
Praises
Tone 4
4. Like waves stirred by the current of the Spirit and overflowing their banks, you watered the whole creation with divine miracles and the wonder of your healings. You stifle deadly passions, heal sickness and banish evil spirits, O God-bearing unmercenaries, who intercede for our souls.
3. Like waves... (Repeat)
2. Submitting bestial passions to spiritual powers, you grant your benefits to both animals and men, O holy unmercenaries, who received the grace of healing from Christ. Thus, celebrating your radiant and sacred feast today, we entreat you to enlighten our souls.
1. Your holy temple has become a heaven on earth, radiantly possessing as its stars your saving miracles, and the divine power of your healing as its sun, O wondrous servants of the Lord, blessed Cosmas and Damian, who intercede for our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@AFTR PRAISES = You are a fountain of healing, O holy unmercenaries: heal all those who entreat you, for the Savior - that never failing Fountain - has made you overflow with sublime gifts. Indeed, the Lord has said to you, as imitators of the Apostles in their divine zeal, "Behold, I give you power to drive out demons and to heal all sickness and frailty!" Thus, in keeping with His will, as you have freely received, so now freely give, healing the sufferings of our souls and bodies.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR PRAISES = Save your servants from all danger, O Theotokos and blessed Virgin, that we may glorify you as the hope of our souls!
Great Doxology. Troparion of the Saints. Litanies and dismissal.
July 2
Feast of the Deposition of the honorable Mantle of the Mother of God at Blachernae
(4th Class)
VESPERS
At O Lord, to You I call...
Tone 4
6. In Your compassion, O Lover of Mankind, You have given Your own Mother as a helper to Your servants. Through her, You have brought about the ineffable work of our salvation and have restored mankind to its divine dignity. Thus, celebrating her revered festival, we sing of Your majesty, O Christ Jesus, our all-powerful Lord!
5. In Your compassion... (Repeat)
4. O Lady, by your honorable mantle, protect the city which fittingly glorifies and venerates you. Spare it from civil war and foreign invasions, famine and earthquakes, O all-holy Bride of God, that it may celebrate you as the help of mankind, O pure unwedded Virgin!
3. O Lady, by your ... (Repeat)
2. O Lady, filled with the grace of God, you have given your honorable mantle to your city as its glory and protection, an indestructible rampart and an inviolable treasury of healing, an inexhaustible fountain pouring forth miracles, and a haven for those shipwrecked in this life. Thus, we sing your praises, O Lady all-worthy of our praise!
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Tone 2
Let us purify our hearts and minds, that we may joyfully celebrate this feast with the angels, intoning the psalm which David sang for the young Bride of the King of All, Christ our God: he said, "Go up to Your resting-place, O Lord, You and the ark of Your holiness!" O Lord, You have adorned her as a palace of delights and have given her as an inheritance to Your city, to surround and protect it, delivering it from all enemies by Your power and thanks to the prayers which she raises to You!
Aposticha of the Octoechos, or the following:
Aposticha
Tone 1
1. You alone have been the living palace of our God. Your honorable mantle is kept as a treasure in your holy temple; you have given it to sanctify believers and serve as their impregnable rampart. Thus, O divine Mother, the city which sings to you will be saved by your sovereign power.
v. Go up, Lord, into Your resting place, You and the Ark of Your majesty.
2. O holy Theotokos, you have given us your honorable mantle, which covered your all-pure body, as a glorious treasure and a fountain pouring forth grace in ever-living streams. Today we celebrate its deposition at Blachernae, honoring you as the one who restored honor to all mankind.
v. The rich among the people shall seek your favor.
3. Possessing your sacred mantle as a holy treasure, O Lady, your church sanctifies all the faithful who have recourse to you, calling you blessed, as is right; in you they find their strength, their support, the hope of their soul and their most sure protection.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR APOSTICA = O all-pure Mother of God, the Church of Christ has received your honorable mantle as a resplendent diadem. Today it is radiant with joy, O Lady, as it exults in the mystery and cries out: "Hail, O precious diadem, crown of the glory of the Lord, only glory of the assembly and my eternal joy! Hail, protectress of those who have recourse to you, their haven of peace, our anchor of salvation!"
Troparion of the Deposition
Tone 8
@AFTR TROP/KON = Ever-Virgin Mother of God, refuge and protection of the human race, you gave your mantle and cincture to your city as a powerful defense. These garments remained incorrupt because of your virginal child-bearing. Time and nature are renewed in you, wherefore we pray that you may grant peace to the universe and great mercy to our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Resurrectional Theotokion
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR THEOTOK = 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.
VESPERS
Use the Festal Format (for 4th Class Feasts)
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
Tone 4
@AFTR SESSIONL = Mother, all worthy of our hymns: today your people celebrate the deposition of your mantle, and they ceaselessly cry aloud to you: "Hail, O Virgin, pride of Christians!"
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Mother, all-worthy of our hymns... (Repeat)
Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
Tone 4
@AFTR SESSIONL = Divine Mother, today the whole world celebrates the deposition of your mantle as a feast; and it cries aloud to you with love: "Hail, O Virgin, helper of believers!"
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Divine Mother... (Repeat)
Kontakion
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = O pure one, whom God Himself has blessed, you have given as a blanket of purity to all the faithful the holy mantle that had covered your pure body. We celebrate with love the deposition of this mantle and sing out gleefully: "Hail, O Virgin most honorable, glory of all Christians!"
Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = The true temple, the pure tabernacle of God the Word, the Vessel of Manna, the living Cloud, the Theotokos, the Virgin Mary: in faith, let us all call her blessed, all we who have been saved through her virginal childbearing. Let us venerate the holy mantle in which the Lord was held and borne as a Child, when He bore our flesh, by which human nature was lifted up to the life of the Kingdom of heaven. Thus, in joy, we sing aloud, "Hail, O Virgin most honorable, glory of all Christians!"
Synaxarion
On July 2, we commemorate the deposition in a holy reliquary of the honorable mantle of the all-holy Theotokos at Blachernae. This took place during the reign of Leo the Great and his wife, Verina.
@SYNAX INDENT = Once, at the Cross, the guards and executioners divided among themselves the vestments of her Son. O city under His protection (what a blessing in itself!), on the second, you received the mantle of His Mother as your inheritance.
By the prayers of Your divine Mother, O Christ our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@AFTR EXAPOST = You alone, O all-pure Theotokos, have renewed time and nature: for you gave birth in virginity; and your mantle remained incorrupt. Likewise, keep your people incorrupt in their faith and in their holiness.
Praises
Tone 4
4. The reliquary containing your mantle, o Mother of God, is an ark of holiness for the faithful, a sacred rampart around them, their pride and their glory. Each day it overflows as a fountain of healing. Thus, gathered together by God, we celebrate today the sea of your miracles and your countless wondrous deeds!
3. The reliquary containing your mantle... (Repeat)
2. Behold the renowned place: behold the ceaselessly radiant dwelling-place in which grace is kept as a treasure: the honorable mantle of the Handmaid of the Lord! O mortals, come and draw pardon and enlightenment. In thanksgiving, cry out with your whole heart: "By your birth-giving, you have saved us, O all-pure Virgin, and we bless you!"
1. We celebrate today the holy deposition of your mantle, O Mother of God, as a festival of joy. On this day, you have deigned to bestow it upon your city as a sacred rampart, an inviolate talisman, a precious bond, an impregnable treasury of healing, a river overflowing with the gifts of the Spirit.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR PRAISES = Let us purify our hearts and minds, that we may joyfully celebrate this feast with the angels, intoning the psalm which David sang for the young Bride of the King of All, Christ our God: he said, "Go up to Your resting-place, O Lord; You and the ark of Your holiness!" O Lord, You have adorned her as a palace of delights and have given her as an inheritance to Your city, to surround and protect it, delivering it from all enemies in Your power and thanks to the prayers which she raises to You!
Great Doxology. Troparion of the Feast. Litanies and Dismissal.
July 3
Commemoration of the holy martyr Hyacinth, and of our holy father Anatolios, Patriarch of Constantinople
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At O Lord, to You I call...
For Hyacinth
Tone 8
3. Illumined by the Holy Spirit, you were a sparkling jewel of the Kingdom of Christ, O athlete who courageously fought the good fight for the Faith. You cast down the pride of the godless and carried off the victory over them as a martyr. Thus we glorify you as an invincible soldier. Intercede for the salvation of our souls.
2. Guided by the unfailing hand of Christ, O martyr Hyacinth, you steered past the waves of error and reached the spiritual harbor where you were filled with infinite peace and a never-fading glory. As you enjoy the delights of heaven forever, intercede for the salvation of our souls.
1. You glorified the immortal God in your body, for you were put to death for His sake. But, He granted you a share in immortal gifts, glorifying you through wondrous miracles. Your reliquary lies open for all as a fountain which sanctifies believers. Intercede for the salvation of our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = To whom can I compare you, O my poor soul? You refuse to repent, yet do not fear the fire as you persist in evil. Arise and call upon our only help; say to her, "O Virgin Mother, entreat your Son, our God, to save me from the snares of the evil one!"
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing her Lamb willingly nailed to the Tree of the Cross, the Ewe lamb cried aloud as a mother, weeping and mourning: "What do I behold, O my Son? You are the Giver of life to all; how can You die? O long-suffering Lord, You raised up all mankind. I glorify Your infinite condescension, O my God!"
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Hyacinth
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your martyr O Lord, received the crown of immortality from You. O our God, on account of his struggle. Armed with your strength he has vanquished his persecutors, and crushed the powerless arrogance of demons. Through his supplications, O Christ God, save our souls.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Anatolios
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Father and Hierarch Anatolius, the holiness of your life has set you before your flock as a rule of faith, an example of meekness and a teacher of self-restraint. Wherefore you acquired greatness through humility and spiritual wealth through poverty. Pray to Christ God that He may save our souls.
ORTHROS
After the reading of the Psalter and Sessional Hymns of the Tone of the week, the Canons of the Octoechos, then the Canon of the Saint, the work of Theophane, in Tone 8
@CANONS = CANON
Tone 8
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 1
@ODE TEXT = Passing through the water on foot as though on dry land, Israel escaped the villainous Egyptians and cried out: "Let us sing to our Redeemer and God!"
v. Holy martyr Hyacinth, intercede for us!
In the radiance of martyrdom, you have become a precious stone to build up the temple of God; I now call upon you to help me to sing your praises.
Renouncing glory here below, you have inherited glory in heaven where you wear a crown in constant union with the King of all, O wondrous martyr!
For the sake of Christ, you showed the fervor of youth and nobility of heart as you courageously combatted error, O victorious martyr!
@ODE TEXT = For the salvation of mankind, the Creator of all being took flesh and dwelt in your womb when He assumed our created being, O Theotokos!
@BOLD 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 praise!
v. Holy martyr Hyacinth, intercede for us!
Although you were a young man, O witness of Christ, you manifested the intelligence and wisdom of an elder.
As an athlete who ran the most difficult of races, you deserve the worthy proclamation of your deeds as a martyr.
By your prayers, O full of grace, guide to the gates of heaven those who acknowledge your divine maternity.
Little Litany
Sessional Hymns
Tone 3
@AFTR SESSIONL = For the Church, you are a precious stone kept in the treasury of heaven, O Hyacinth! And you confounded those who worshipped gods of stone. You drank the chalice of martyrdom. O illustrious witness, entreat Christ our God to grant great mercy to our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = You became the tabernacle of God the Word, O all-pure Virgin Mother who surpass the angels in holiness. More than all others, I am covered with filth, soiled by carnal passions. Cleanse me in the divine waters, O you who through your prayers obtain salvation for all!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = When she saw hanging on the Cross the Fruit which she had born without travail, the spotless Ewe lamb, the virginal Mother of the Word, cried aloud with maternal tears: "Alas, O my Child, You suffer the Passion in Your desire to save mankind from its deadly passions!"
@BOLD 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. Holy martyr Hyacinth, intercede for us!
As a loyal athlete, you were stripped in order to fight for the faith, O blessed martyr, without fearing the arrogance of the tyrants.
O wise in God, you have received a hyacinth garland of heavenly colors; and as a heavenly martyr, you deserved to rejoice with the angels above.
You joyfully proclaimed the Word of Truth and confounded the tyrant by the fearless courage which possessed you.
@ODE TEXT = Called blessed by God Himself, you alone received the All-powerful One; save those who sing to your name from all danger and distress.
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 5
@ODE TEXT = Rising early in the morning, we call out to You, O Lord: "Save us, for You are our God, and we know no other!"
v. Holy martyr Hyacinth, intercede for us!
You confounded the cruel tyrant, O victorious martyr whom Christ robed with invincible power!
You have acquired deathless fame, O crowned martyr, for you accepted voluntary death for love of Christ!
By your prayers, O pure Virgin, may we be saved from the snares of the enemy, we who sing of your wondrous birthgiving.
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 6
@ODE TEXT = From my 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: "Hear me, O God of my salvation!"
v. Holy martyr Hyacinth, intercede for us!
The martyr rejoiced to suffer the torments from the impious. His spirit strengthened by the Passion of the impassible God, he triumphed over the foolish as he went without flinching to the Judge of all combats!
As a brilliant hyacinth, you were drawn into the heavenly blue of the dwelling of God above; crimsoned by the blood of your suffering, you became an acceptable sacrifice, O blessed one, in the assembly of the First-born.
@ODE TEXT = Through you, O spotless Mother of God, may we be saved from danger and distress and obtain the divine enlightenment of the Son of God who ineffably took flesh in your womb.
Little Litany
Kontakion of Hyacinth
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = O faithful, let us weave an imperishable crown of flowers for Hyacinth today, as we raise our voices to sing, "Hail, Hyacinth, great glory of the martyrs!"
Synaxarion
@SYNAX INDENT = On July 3, we commemorate the holy martyr Hyacinth the Chamberlain.
As a stone is polished sparkling by the flow of water, so did Hyacinth shine with virtue under the streams of his own blood. His body completely scourged, he died of starvation on the third, earning holy glory.
@SYNAX INDENT = By his prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 7
@ODE TEXT = The children who came from Judaea to Babylon long ago, by faith in the Trinity, trampled the flames of the furnace beneath their feet, singing, "Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!"
v. Holy martyr Hyacinth, intercede for us!
Since in you piety triumphed over the appetites of the passions, O blessed one who were nourished by the Word of God, you refused the food offered to the impious gods as you sang out, "Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!
You offered yourself to the Lord as a holy and sacred victim; in the purity of your heart and sincerity of your soul, you cried aloud, "Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!"
@ODE TEXT = You halted the corrupting force of death which devoured mankind, O pure and blessed Virgin, when you conceived the Giver of Life, the God of our Fathers!
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 8
@ODE 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, "Bless your Maker and Redeemer, young men! Praise Him, priests! Exalt Him, O people, throughout all the ages!"
v. Holy martyr Hyacinth, intercede for us!
After the narrow prison, you found the delights of the vast Paradise, where you behold the radiant splendor of the saints, contemplate the choirs of angels who stand before God, and ceaselessly sing "Exalt Him, O people, throughout all the ages!"
With your whole strength you loved your God, pouring out your blood for Him as you opposed sin, O blessed martyr; having driven off the enemy and being crowned as a conqueror, you eagerly cry aloud, "Praise Him, priests! Exalt Him, O people, throughout all the ages!"
Radiant as a hyacinth, as a magnificent offering you adorn the temple of heaven with the most beautiful of colors, beautifying the Holy of Holies with your splendor as a martyr, while you ceaselessly sing, "Praise Him, priests! Exalt Him, O people, throughout all the ages!
@ODE TEXT = In a manner beyond reason, you gave birth to the eternal Word of our God for the well-being of our nature endowed with reason; by Him, we have been delivered from corrupting death and have received the life-giving Spirit. Thus, O Virgin, we glorify your divine maternity throughout all the ages!
@BOLD TITLE = Canticle of Mary
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 9
@ODE TEXT = O Mother of God and unwedded Virgin, you have ineffably conceived the true God by your word; by our ceaseless hymns, we magnify you as higher in honor than the spotless powers!
v. Holy martyr Hyacinth, intercede for us!
By your prayers, make the Lord propitious to all the faithful who sing of your invincible passion; by it, you brought an end to the error of idolatry and caused the triumph of the word of truth.
You were a delightful sight for the armies of angels, O Hyacinth of heavenly color, crimsoned by your own blood as you confessed your faith in Christ, adorned by the crown of martyrdom.
You were a tabernacle for God in your entirety: your body and soul were by the unyielding resistance you manifested to the mad folly of the tyrant; thus we call you blessed.
@ODE TEXT = Put to death the sin that lives in me; grant life to my soul which is close to death, by the power of the true Life who was in His ineffable love was born from your womb, O Lady, for the sake of the faithful who magnify you.
Exapostilaria and aposticha of the Octoechos
July 4
Commemoration of our holy father Andrew the Jerosolymitan, Archbishop of Crete
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At O Lord, to You I call...
For Andrew
Tone 8
3. What shall we call you, O holy Andrew? An ascetic who reined in the rebellious passions, a bishop who preached the Gospel of Christ, a harmonious zither played by the Spirit, a harp giving joy to the whole universe, an inspired singer, a new David exulting before the Ark of grace of the New Covenant?
2. What shall we call you, O holy Andrew? An imitator of the elect who struggled valiantly, an unfailing hymnographer of the martyrs and saints, a guide for the faithful in renewal through virtue, an exposer of the vanities of this life, a perfect teacher, a true spiritual father? Intercede for the salvation of our souls.
1. What shall we call you, O holy Andrew? A delightful flower of holy Jerusalem, a firm support for the orthodoxy of the Faith, a most holy bishop of Crete, an illuminator of the world by your radiance, rising in the East to give light to the West? Intercede for the salvation of our souls!
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = To whom can I compare you, O my poor soul? You refuse to repent, yet do not fear the fire as you persist in evil. Arise and call upon our only help; say to her, "O Virgin Mother, entreat your Son, our God, to save me from the snares of the evil one!"
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Seeing her Lamb willingly nailed to the Cross, the Ewe lamb cried aloud as a mother, weeping and mourning: "What do I behold, O my Son? You are the Giver of life to all; how can You die? O long-suffering Lord, You raise up all mankind. I glorify Your infinite condescension, O my God!"
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Andrew
Tone 8
@AFTR TROP/KON = Guide of Orthodoxy, teacher of piety and holiness, Star of the universe, glory of Hierarchs, 1. wise Andrew inspired by God. By your teachings you enlightened us all, O Harp of the Spirit. Intercede with Christ God for the salvation of our souls.
ORTHROS
Kontakion of Andrew
Tone 2
@AFTR TROP/KON = The divine truths became glorious melodies in your mouth, O holy Andrew; wherefore you became as a guiding star illumined by the light of the Trinity. We the faithful cry out to you: "Never cease to intercede for our salvation!"
Synaxarion
On July 4, we commemorate our father among the saints, Andrew the Jerosolymitan, Archbishop of Crete.
@SYNAX INDENT = The shepherd of Crete, the author of the Great Canon, has also merited a crown through his sufferings. His soul only surrendered when it was handed over to the Lord. On the fourth, his life came to an end-but not his fame.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilarion of the Octoechos
@AFTR EXAPOST = Holy right-believing martyred Tsar Nicholas II, the holy, right-believing martyred Tsaritsa Alexandra, the holy martyred Tsarevich Alexis, the holy martyred Tsarevnas Olga, Tatiana, Mai and Anastasia, the holy venerable-martyr Elizabeth, the holy martyrs of the Imperial House, the martyred nun Barbara and the Faithful Imperial Servants slain with them.
@VES/ORTH = GREAT VESPERS
First Stasis of the First Kathisma
@AT "O LORD = "At O Lord..."
Tone 6 - special Melody: "having set aside..."
8. When Rus', which from of old was holy, began to apostatize from its Creator of God, the long-suffering Lord sent many righteous men and prophets, of whom the last was the righteous John, the holy pastor of Kronstadt, who called sinners to repentance and proclaimed that the wrath of God would fall upon the unrepentant; but the people would not heed them. Then God committed the Russian land, which before had been pious, to great persecutions of the Faith, that He might bring sinners to their senses and exalt and glorify the faithful through the endurance, suffering and death for Christ, revealing a multitude of holy new martyrs, among whom were the great passion-bearer, the martyred Tsar Nicholas, with his Tsaritsa, children and servants, who now pray on behalf of our souls.
7. When Rus', which from of old... (Repeat)
Tone 2 - special Melody: "when the tree..."
6. When you, O martyred Tsar, were imprisoned by those who contend against God, you had great joy with your Tsritsa and children when the ministers of God visited you to perform the divine services. Such a pious Tsar and anointed one of God was rejected by many of the people, for they were not mindful of the word of God which calls upon all to honor their ruler; and the wrath of God has come upon us all. Wherefore, in repentance we cry out: "O Lord, through the intercession of the great passion-bearer, the martyred Nicholas, with his Tsarita, children and servants, who now pray on behalf of our souls.
5. We raise a hymn to you, O martyred Tsar, much suffering passion-bearer: for you found a place for all in your heart, as did the Apostle Paul: feeding the hungry, comforting the sorrowful, sympathizing with the suffering, grieving over the lost, showing clemency to condemned malefactors, meekly enduring slander and injustice, zealous for the Faith and for piety, holing the glory and wealth of this world to be but nought and, what is more, feeling them to be a burden, having concern for the peace of the whole world, aflame with love for all. Take us also into your heart, O much-suffering and great passion-bearer; and entreat the merciful God, that He take pity on us, and grant us the strength to be imitators of you.
Tone 6 - special Melody: "having set aside..."
4. O divinely-crowned martyr, holy Tsarita Alexandra, who can recount your truly evangelical life? You came to the Orthodox Faith from another belief, and you embraced it wholeheartedly, coming to love prayer, the Church and the Holy Mysteries, and the teachings of the Holy Fathers, raising your children in piety, and preparing them for martyrdom for Christ, meekly enduring the slander of those who had forgotten God and who did not understand your true piety. Wherefore, we beseech you: entreat Christ God, whom you love, that He may save our souls.
3. Great was your faith, O holy martyred Tsaritsa Alexandra, when you were imprisoned unjustly by those who contend against God; for knowing of the martyr's death which awaited you, you said, "Let us prepare ourselves to meet the heavenly Bridegroom! God fills and illumines my soul with indescribable joy and tranquility. My soul dances for joy, knowing that the Bridegroom draws near. My soul trembles, for God is close. Let us ask of the Lord forgiveness of sins for ourselves and the whole world. Let us pray for those who forget to pray and for all the people!" O holy martyr, be a channel for the forgiveness of our sins and great mercy!"
2. The holy martyred Tsarevich Alexis loved the power of the Cross. And this faith in the Cross helped him to bear without murmuring the cross of the suffering of an incurable affliction throughout all of his brief life, and to accept with hope and patience a martyr's death for Christ. And now in the heavens, pray for us who with faith and love keep your memory, that the Lord may also grant us faith, patience and love.
1. O holy martyrs for Christ, Tsaravnas Olga, Tatiana, Maria and Anastiasia: Christ has revealed you as angels in the land of Russia, for you became a model of purity, love and sympathy, which you were taught by your pious parents, possessed of great love for all, and especially for the suffering, to whom you ministered in accord with the commandment of Christ: "I was sick, and you visited Me." And when the persecution, imprisonment and mockery began, you manifested the great virtues of faith, meekness and patience and the forgiveness of all, chanting your holy prayers and placing your trust in God, crying out to the Lord before the many icons which you set before yourselves, praying meekly for the enemies that were to unjustly vex and slay you. Your meekness and patience melted the hearts of the malefactors. Great were your virtues on earth; great also is your glory in the heavens, O holy brides of Christ. Pray on behalf of our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TONE IND = O divinely elect and venerable martyred princess Elizabeth, when the tempest of godlessness fell upon the land of Russia, you uttered these words: "As a natural storm these things take place: certain ones escape, others are struck down, and the spiritual eyes of others are opened that they might behold the mighty works of God; so also do they happen amid the wind of life." For amid the misfortunes, your soul beheld the right hand of God. The cruel murder of your husband led you to the service of God and neighbor. You ministered to the poor, the bereft and the crippled, with humility and love. Moreover, you embraced the monastic life, and refused to flee from those who contend with God, fearlessly receiving a martyr's death for Christ. Honoring your fragrant relics, we earnestly entreat: pray for us who honor your struggles and sufferings!
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR TONE IND = Out of His love for mankind, the King of Heaven appeared on earth and dealt with men, for He assumed a human body from the pure Virgin and was seen in the flesh He received from her. He is the One and only Son having two natures but not two persons. Wherefore we profess and declare the truth: that Christ our God is perfect God and perfect Man. O Mother who knew not carnal union, intercede with Him that He may have mercy on our souls.
Entrance. Prokimenon of the Day.
Readings: 1) Wisdom 3:1-9; 2) I Kings 8:22-23, 27-30; 3) Isaiah 61:1-11; 62:1-5.
Lete.
We sing the stichera of the temple, then
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 3)
@BODY TXT IND = True glory is suffering, for thus spoke the Lord: "Now is the Son of Man glorified", calling the Passion on the Cross His glory. And of this glory of the Cross, the royal martyrs were worthy, for they imitated the sufferings of the Savior. Wherefore, Christ has come to love them and has exalted them in the heavens, that they might pray on behalf of our souls. ] v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@BODY TXT IND = The thoughts of God are not those of men, nor are the ways of men like the ways of God, says the Lord; for He humbles one and exalts another; the Lord brings death and gives life; He takes away and gives; He raises up the poor man from the earth, giving him a throne of glory. Thus the Lord prepared a throne of glory for His beloved servant, the glorious martyred Tsar Nicholas, rewarding him for his piety; and because of the path of the Cross which he trod, He caused him to live in the heavens, that he might pray for his people, that we may take care for the Kingdom of Heaven and for the salvation of our souls.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BODY TXT IND = 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.
Aposticha
Tone 8 - special Melody: "O most glorious wonder..."
1. Your concern was not for the glory of an earthly kingdom, O glorious martyred Tsar Nicholas, when you received coronation to the realm and the anointing with oil. But you pondered the glory of God and the heavenly Kingdom, saying in prayer before the people, "O my Master and Lord, direct and instruct me in this great ministry, that Your divine wisdom may be with me; send it down from the heavens of Your Saints, that I may come to know what is pleasing in Your eyes and what is right according to Your commandments. May my heart be directed by You to accomplish all things for Your glory and for the spiritual benefit of the people You have entrusted to me." And this prayer was acceptable in God's sight. And now, as a martyr, do not cease to pray to God for the spiritual benefit of your people, that He be merciful to them, granting us remission of sins, peace and great mercy.
v. I have raised up on chosen from among My people.
2. Like an innocent lamb was the martyred Tsar Nicholas led to the slaughter with the Tsaritsa, their children and their faithful servants. Possessed of a pure soul, entrusting himself and his household to God, never murmuring, he meekly accepted death for Christ. And now, standing with the angels and with great company of new martyrs in the heavens, he prays for the salvation of the land of Russia from the cruel, godless ones, that all who have fallen away from God may return to Him, that the fear of God may be established in their hearts, and that the faith of Christ may once again shine forth.
v. With My holy oil, I have anointed him.
3. These things did the holy royal martyrs profess before they were undeservedly put to death for Christ's sake, repeating the testament of the holy Fathers: the ancient martyrs who believed in Jesus Christ, went to death as to a feast, furnishing their mind and heart with wings of faith. And while condemned to death, they possessed a spirit of peace which never departed from them, for peacefully they went to death, trusting that they would enter into another, spiritual life which is revealed beyond the grave. And having put these words to the test indeed, the holy royal martyrs now rejoice with Christ in the heavens, praying with boldness on behalf of our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Who can recount your labors and sufferings? O great passion-bearer martyred Tsar Nicholas, you assumed the grievous burden of authority, not for the sake of glory, but as a Christian Tsar and servant of Christ, as one concerned for the good of his people, enduring a multitude of tribulations. All of these things were permitted by the Lord because of the sins of the people, and that He might reveal your piety, showing the world your long-suffering, which was like that of the long-suffering Job, that you might receive a glorious martyr's crown in the heavens, like that of Abel. And now joining the chorus there with the angels, you intercede for us before God, praying for the salvation of our souls.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@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: "Hail, O Lady, O our intercessor, our shield and the redemptress of our souls!"
Troparion
Tone 5
@AFTR TROP/KON = Meekly you endured the cross of your earthly kingdom, the bonds and diverse sufferings inflicted upon you by those opposed to God; and you bore witness for Christ even unto death, O great passion-bearer, divinely-crowned Tsar Nicholas. Wherefore, Christ God has crowned you in the heavens with a martyr's crown, together with your queen, your children and your servants. Entreat Him to have mercy upon the Russian land and save our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Resurrectional Theotokion
Tone 5
@AFTR TROP/KON = Hail O impassable gate of the Lord, O wall and protection of those who hasten to you, Hail O calm harbor, O Virgin who bore in the flesh your Creator and God, continue to intercede for those who praise and worship your maternity.
ORTHROS
Festal Format
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
Tone 7
@AFTR SESSIONL = Thrice did Peter deny the Lord, yet he brought forth tears of repentance and was quickly pardoned and elevated to the rank of the foremost apostle. And the Tsar and great passion-bearer Nicholas, even though he renounced the throne, beholding about him treason, fear and deceit, and perceiving that all of the military commanders and the people near him had rejected him, yet never renounced Christ nor his love for his people, nor did he wish to flee from those who were opposed to God, but meekly endured all things and, though guiltless, accepted a martyr's death for Christ, like his kinsmen, the right believing princes Boris and Gleb. Wherefore we entreat you, O passion-bearer and Tsar: beseech Christ God that He grant remission of transgressions to those who with love celebrate your holy memory.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Accept this supplication from us who flee to your protection, O all-pure Virgin: never cease to pray to the Lover of Mankind, that your servants may be saved.
Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
Tone 7
@AFTR SESSIONL = With great love for thankless men, you offered yourself, O great passion-bearer and Tsar, as a sacrifice for your people, as you said, "If a sacrifice is required for the people, let me be that sacrifice." Greater love than this can no one have, than to lay down his life for his friends. And now, standing before Christ whom you served, entreated Him on behalf of us who with love honor your holy memory.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Awesome is the wonder of the conceiving and ineffable the manner of the birthgiving which have been revealed in you, O pure ever-Virgin. My mind is struck with awe and marvels. Your glory, O Theotokos, is a joy for all, for the salvation of our souls.
@BOLD TITLE = Polyeleos and Magnifications
We magnify you, O holy royal martyrs and passion-bearers, and we honor your honored sufferings which you endured for Christ.
God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in the afflictions which befall us.
We are counted as sheep for the slaughter.
We went through fire and water, and You brought us out to refreshment.
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the Polyeleos
Tone 7
@AFTR SESSIONL = O martyred Tsar Nicholas, when you acceded to the royal throne, you did not ask of God rich estates, nor glory, nor the lives of those who opposed you, nor length of days; but with all your heart you asked, like the most wise Solomon, "O Lord God, grant me wisdom and understanding." Wherefore, the Lord heard you and granted that which you had asked, manifesting you as a zealot for piety, a wise and humble Tsar. And He crowned you for your piety with a glorious heavenly crown, that you might pray for all Orthodox people, standing with the holy angels in the heavens at the throne of God.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = O all-pure Virgin, have mercy on us who with faith flee to you who are full of loving-kindness and ask your fervent aid. As a mother of God most High, entreat your Son, Christ our God, that your servants may be saved.
@BOLD TITLE = Prokimenon
Tone 4
@PROKIM LEFT = For Your sake.
@PROKIM INDEN = v. We are counted as sheep for the slaughter.
Gospel: Matthew 10:16-22
@BOLD TITLE = Idiomela
Through the intercessions of the royal martyrs...
Through the intercessions of the Theotokos...
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@BODY TXT IND = Great faith and wondrous patience and love for your enemies did you acquire, O holy martyred Tsar Nicholas, trusting in God in the midst of your sufferings, forgiving the enemies who slew you, and asking that they not be punished for your sake. For you said that evil cannot conquer evil, but love alone. And you meekly accepted a martyr's death for Christ. Wherefore, Christ has exalted you in the heavens. Entreat Him on behalf of those who with faith and love honor you.
Canons: we sing the Canon of the Paraclisis, then this Canon in Tone 2.
@CANONS = CANON
Tone 2
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 1
@ODE TEXT = Come, all you people! Let us sing to Christ our God who divided the sea for the people whom He had rescued from slavery to the Egyptians, for He is gloriously triumphant!
v. O holy royal martyrs, pray to God for us!
Beholding the mockery and despoiling of your land by the godless foe, the pious Tsar wept from the depths of his heart, like the prophet Jeremiah and the three youths, praying for the sinful people and groaning bitterly, "O merciful Lord, forsake us not!"
O how has the Russian land, which before was prosperous and glorious in the world, now been made captive by those who contend against God? All who were her friends have forsaken her and become her foes. The Lord has rejected tsar and prince and priest. Behold, O Lord, look down and have mercy!
Great is the abyss of the Lord's compassion. The Lord does not reject us forever, but takes pity on the humbled and penitent, in accordance with the multitude of His mercies, and He delivers His people, as of old He delivered Israel from slavery to the Egyptians.
@ODE TEXT = O mistress, hearken to the cry of prayer from those who have recourse to you with faith and love and sing to you with reverence.
Katavasia
I shall open my mouth...
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 3
@ODE TEXT = You have established me on the rock of Faith; You made me triumph over my enemies, and my spirit exults with joy as I sing, "No one is as holy as You, O our God; no one is as just as You, O Lord!"
v. O holy royal martyrs, pray to God for us!
At God's behest, the guardian angel was taken away from the land of Russia, her enemies stood at her head, and they who despise her prosper, because of the multitude of the impieties of what was once a pious land; and her princes languish among alien peoples. Do not utterly reject Your suffering people, O Lord, but turn back and establish them on the rock of Your commandments.
How long, O Lord, will the way of the wicked prosper? How long will the land weep because of the evil of those who dwell in it? Hierarchs, priests, princes and faithful people have been cast down and slain. How long, O Lord, O true and holy Master, will You refrain from condemning Your enemies for their blood? Have mercy and deliver us all from Your enemies, and save our souls.
Bereft of deliverance, and land which before was called Christian has been filled with tribulation and groaning, saying amid its sufferings, "We have sinned and transgressed, falling away from You, O Lord, and have not obeyed Your commandments, nor kept them. Turn us to repentance, O God, and establish us upon the firm rock of Your commandments.
@ODE TEXT = You are our hope and our trust, O all-holy Lady. Save our suffering homeland and your people, who entreat you and call upon your name.
Little Litany
Kontakion to the holy martyr princess Elizabeth
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = Taking up the Cross of Christ, you passed from royal
glory to the glory of heaven, praying for your enemies, O holy martyr princess Elizabeth; and with the martyr Barbara, you find everlasting joy. Therefore, pray on behalf of our souls.
Sessional Hymns
Tone 7
@AFTR SESSIONL = O holy passion-bearer, princess Elizabeth, when they cast you alive into the mine-shaft at Alapaevsk together with the holy martyrs of royal blood, who were the princess Sergius, John, Constantine, Igor and Vladmir, as well as the martyr Barbara and the holy martyr Theodore, though all were long enfeebled because of their wounds, you, though barely alive, alleviated the suffering of the dying, chanting sacred hymns which were heard by those who passed. Wherefore, we beseech you: entreat Christ our God that He grant remission of transgressions to those who celebrate your holy memory with love.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = When I stand before my Creator on the day of His righteous Judgment, then, O Lady, stand before me and deliver me from everlasting torment, that I go not down into Hades, but be saved by your assistance, O all-holy Theotokos!
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 4
@ODE TEXT = It was not an angel nor an ambassador who came forth from the Virgin, but You Yourself, O Christ, made flesh and bringing me salvation. For this I cry out to You: "Glory to Your power, O Lord!"
v. O holy royal martyrs, pray to God for us!
The great iniquities of Your people were before Your eyes, O Lord; wherefore the godless foe defiled and razed Your sanctuaries, as the prophet Isaiah said: "Your feasts are hateful to me; I will no longer pardon your sins; when you stretch forth your hands to Me, I will turn away My eyes from you. These people draw near to Me with their mouths, but their heart is far from Me." Aware of this, we now repent and turn back to You, that Your wrath may cease, and that we may prevail over those who assail us and say, "Glory to Your power, O Lord!"
O how the time of the iniquities of Your people has increased, O Lord, for You have taken away our strength, You have given us over into the hands of transgressors and have made us all slaves. You alone, O Lord, if You wish, can free us, when we acknowledge our sins and turn to You, our Creator, and glorify You.
Only in God is there blessed life which is everlasting, but narrow is the way that leads to that life. Your people, O Lord, have forgotten these things, and have not obeyed Your words, O Christ our King, but have taken the wide path of sin. And perdition and violence have come upon us - exile and death - that we may come to acknowledge Your one true path, O our Savior, and repent and glorify You.
@ODE TEXT = You are our refuge and our consolation, O all-pure Theotokos. Entreat your Son and our God to grant us salvation and the remission of our sins.
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 5
@ODE TEXT = You are the Source of Light and Creator of the Ages, O Lord: direct us in the light of Your commandments, for we know no other God but You!
When the Lord rejected tsar, prince and priest, He did not spare His temples and holy things; they were all laid waste. My heart is troubled within me; I sigh, but there is no one to console me. O Lord, look down and take pity; enlighten us with Your commandments, that we may turn to You and serve You.
Your people, O Lord, wished to escape the violence of the foe, but were unable, and others wandered among alien peoples. This has taken place, for false leaders have spoken vain thoughts and foolish things, and have not spoken of sin, to avert the wrath of God, captivity and exile. And now all the lips of our enemies are opened against us, their teeth have gnashed and said, "Let us swallow them up!" Arise and cry out at night, pouring forth prayer unto the Lord, stretching forth your hands to Him and saying, "Behold our destruction, O Lord! Enlighten, look upon us and have mercy!"
Young men and virgins, elders and children have been slain; the enemy has persecuted my soul; he has cast my life to the ground; he has set me in dark places, like those long dead, and my soul is cast down within me. Within me, my heart is troubled; but strength has perished, yet my hope is in the Lord. O Lord, be mindful of my poverty and bitterness. These things I spoke within my heart; wherefore, I endure suffering from God, that the Lord may look upon my humility.
@ODE TEXT = O all-pure Mary, entreat God whom you have borne, that He grant your servants remission of sins.
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 6
@ODE TEXT = O God my Savior, I am sinking in the abyss of sin; I am plunged into the sea of this life; but as Jonah came out from the whale, so draw me out of the pit of the passions and save me, O Lord!
The Lord has granted consolation, for the mercy of the Lord has not forsaken us and His compassion has not ended, for they are renewed each day. Wherefore, let us trust in God; the Lord is our portion, let us hope in Him who is able to deliver us from all misfortunes, as He did Jonah from the belly of the whale.
It is a good thing to seek God, for the Lord is good to those who trust in Him; and it is good for the soul which awaits in patience the salvation of God. It is good for the one who gives his face to the smiter and accepts abuse, that the Lord not utterly reject him, but deliver the souls of the humble who trust in Him from destruction.
The Lord has sent woe upon sinful people, but He has mercy in His great goodness and love in His care, for He has smitten and rendered bitter the lot of the children of men by the wish of His heart when they trampled upon His commandments, for from the Lord come punishment and prosperity. Let no one complain because of his punishment, but let him cast himself down because of his sins, and let him lament until he sinks in death and beholds the Lord from heaven.
@ODE TEXT = Now I flee to you, O all-pure one. Save me by your supplications and preserve me, for you can do whatever you wish, since you are the Mother of the Almighty.
Little Litany
Kontakion
Tone 6
@AFTR TROP/KON = You strengthened the hope of the martyred Tsar, his Tsaritsa and children, and it took flight to Your love, proclaiming beforehand their future rest. Through their prayers, O Lord, have mercy on us.
Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Beholding the Faith of Christ made mighty throughout the land of Russia by the pious Tsar, and unable to endure it, the enemies of God pondered who they might destroy the Christ-loving Tsar-martyr Nicholas, and they gave him over to an undeserved death with his pious Tsaritsa, children and servants, and with all the royal family. Yet they were deceived, for the ways of the wicked shall perish, but the righteous shall live forever. Instead of destruction and harm, they made them glorious martyrs and intercessors before God; and by their blood and that of all the new martyrs, the land of Russia, oppressed by those who contend against God, shall be saved, for this blood is the seed of new life in Christ. By their supplications, O Lord, have mercy on us!
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 7
@ODE TEXT = Renouncing the wicked worship of the golden statue erected on the plain of Dura, the young men were covered with refreshing dew in the midst of the flames, as they sang, "Blessed are You, O God of our Fathers!"
v. O holy royal martyrs, pray to God for us!
Turn us back to You, O Lord, and we shall repent. Make our days new through ministering to You as before, for You are blessed, and Your name is praised and glorified forever. For You are just in all that You have done to us, and all Your works are truth, and Your paths are straight, and all of Your judgments are true. Wherefore, with contrite heart and humble spirit, let us say, "Blessed are You, O God, who are praised and exalted above all forever!"
Blessed are You, O Lord God, for with true judgment You have brought all these sufferings upon us because of our sins. For we have sinned transgressed, and have neither preserved nor kept Your commandments, that all may be well with us and that we may glorify the holy name of Your glory, which is praised and exalted above all forever.
O Lord, Remitter of all debts of sin, grant the grace of forgiveness to the sinful land of Russia which You have punished with bitter wounds. Yet not in Your wrath, but according to the multitude of Your mercies and Your ineffable compassion, cleanse the Orthodox land of godless foe. Raise up, O Compassionate One, Your anointed Tsar, and hear us. Grant peace to the Church and salvation to Your people, the Tsar and all the countless assembly of new martyrs entreats You, the one blessed God of our Fathers.
@ODE TEXT = O Virgin Theotokos, who gave birth to the Word, your Creator, in ways past understanding: entreat Him, together with the great martyred Tsar, the Tsaritsa, their children, servants and the other royal martyrs and all the new martyrs and all the new martyrs of Russia, that He have mercy upon our souls.
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 8
@ODE TEXT = God descended into the furnace to come to the aid of the youths of the Hebrew people, and He changed the flame into a refreshing dew: all you, His works, sing to Him as Lord, and exalt Him throughout all the ages!
v. O holy royal martyrs, pray to God for us!
Deliver us from standing at Your left hand, O Lord who orders all things for our benefit and have sent fiery purification upon our land, that we may cry out unceasingly, "All you works of the Lord, bless the Lord!"
A great treasure have we in the holy Faith which Christ has given us, unworthy though we are; and we cherish it amid prosperity and amid sufferings, as the great assembly of the new passion-bearers preserved the Faith even unto death. And let us cry out with them, "All you, His works, sing to Him as Lord, and exalt Him throughout all the ages!"
The all-good God, desiring to reveal the strength of the Faith and the power of the patience of the royal martyrs, gave them a cup of bitter sufferings to drink and a martyr's death to undergo. They did not murmur, but like innocent lambs, opened not their mouths; and with patience and joy, they endured all things, crying out, "All you His works, sing to Him as Lord, and exalt Him throughout all the ages!"
@ODE TEXT = O Theotokos, who gave birth to the Savior and Master of all, you have been revealed as the mediatrix of our salvation; wherefore, we beseech you: intercede that the grievously suffering land of Russia be delivered from the godless; and grant salvation to all who faithfully sing to you throughout all the ages.
@BOLD TITLE = Canticle of Mary
@BOLD TITLE = Ode 9
@ODE TEXT = The Word, true God from true God, who in His ineffable wisdom came to restore Adam after the fall of man brought about by sin, took flesh from us from a Virgin; with one heart, we the faithful magnify Him.
Wise is the path that leads to perdition, and many are they who have taken it, said the Lord. The people of Russia did not heed this saying of the Gospel, and the wrath of God has fallen upon them. Deliver us from it, O Christ, through the prayers of the holy and great martyred Tsar Nicholas and those slain with him; and since You are the Lover of Mankind, save our souls.
O Jesus Christ our God, in accordance with the multitude of Your mercies, turn us back and we shall be saved. Look down from heaven with mercy and love and behold, for You have given us over to the hands of the wicked, and we are humbled throughout all the earth because of our sins. Now we shall follow You and fear You, and seek Your face. Put us not to shame, but save our souls through the supplications of the holy royal passion-bearers.
The passion-bearing Tsar beseeches You to show forth Your power. Rescue us from our godless enemy by Your wonders; and deal with us according to Your gentleness and the multitude of Your mercies. Let all who act evilly against Your servants be put to shame, and let their might be cast down, that they may understand that You are the one true God of all the world, who are glorious and the Savior of our souls.
@ODE TEXT = You are our strength, you are our boast and our joy, our preserver, aid, refuge, invincible intercessor and protection of the Russian land. O all-pure Theotokos, with the martyred Tsar and the great multitude of the new martyrs, pray that your servants be saved.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
@AFTR EXAPOST = The royal martyrs who suffered for Your sake, O Christ, underwent many torments and have received crowns of glory in the heavens, that they may pray on behalf of our souls.
@AFTR EXAPOST = After God, we place all our hope in you, O all-pure Theotokos, and we pray to you: entreat Him who was borne of you that He grant peace and great mercy to all the world.
Praises
Tone 3
4. O royal passion-bearers and martyrs, you were led as pure lambs before the Master. Entreat Him to save our souls.
3. O royal... (Repeat)
2. O glorious royal martyrs, your wounds and stripes heal the wounds of sin for all the faithful, teaching great patience, O holy sufferers for the Lord.
1. Tormented with grievous wounds and sufferings, O holy royal passion-bearers, you did not reject the true life of the Lord, nor were you afraid of those who contend against God. Wherefore, by your supplications, make us all steadfast.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR PRAISES = By the prayers of Your holy martyrs who were slain for their faith in You, O Christ: the Grand Duke Michael, Paul, Demetrios and George, and the faithful royal servants: Elias, Basil and Eugene, Anastasia, Catherine and Anna, Alexis, John, Clement, John and Nicholas, have mercy and save our souls, for You are good and the Lover of Mankind.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR PRAISES = 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 holy royal passion-bearers and all the new martyrs that we may obtain mercy for our souls.
July 5
Commemoration of our holy father Athanasios of Athos, of the holy Wonderworker Lampados, and of the holy woman Martha, mother of Simeon the Hermit
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At O Lord, to You I call...
For Athanasios
Tone 2
6. What praises are worthy of you, O Athanasios? Your virtues are your true adornment, and you were filled with grace by the light flowing from God. You are a sword cutting down the rebellious passions, a radiant pillar of divine contemplation, a flame of abstinence enkindling on the lampstand of your soul the divine precepts of the One who gives life to all mankind!
5. What praises can worthily crown you, O Athanasios? You are an eagle soaring on the wind, carried like a heavenly being on the wings of divine contemplation. You are a stronghold of humility, an unshakeable rampart of discernment, truly majestic in your nobility of soul, an intercessor before Christ our God that He protect your spiritual children in His compassion.
4. By the radiance of your gifts, you are like a morning star, guiding those who are blinded by the passions toward the never-setting Light, O father Athanasios, wise in God. Since you increased the talent entrusted to you, Christ made you a physician of souls: able to lance festering wounds with the scalpel of your words, you restore health to the faithful who have recourse to you.
For Lampados
Tone 8
3. O Lampados, holy and blessed father, by temperance and prayer you submitted the rebellious flesh to your spirit. Filled with grace by the Holy Spirit, you used its strength to subdue and crush the countless evil spirits who assailed you.
2. O Lampados, divinely-inspired father, you were given to us as a treasure hidden in the caves in which you dwelt; by your wondrous miracles, you anoint the souls of the faithful who have recourse to you, O blessed father. Thus we sing to you: intercede that those who praise you may be saved from all adversity.
1. O Lampados, holy and blessed father, united to God by asceticism and piously enlightened by His living radiance, you became a lamp, pointing out the ways of salvation to all mankind. Thus, we the faithful joyfully celebrate today your light-bearing memorial.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TONE IND = Your life was filled with the grace of God, O father Athanasios, and your passing was truly holy. Today, the whole community of the Holy Mountain assembles. Seeing you lifeless upon your bed, it cries aloud in tears, "Grant one last word to your servants. Tell us: how can you leave your sons, whom you have loved as a compassionate father? Although the tomb will cover you on earth, we who wholeheartedly venerate you, will have you in heaven as a protector and intercessor before Christ our God!"
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR TONE 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 commixtion or confusion. O noble and blessed woman, intercede with Him that He may have mercy on our souls!
Entrance O Joyful Light. Prokimenon of the day.
Readings, when used: 1) Wisdom 3:1-9 2) Wisdom 5:15 - 6:3 3) Wisdom 4:7-15
Lete (when used)
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 1)
@AFTR TONE IND = Venerable Athanasios is a never-setting star giving light to the whole world; let us sing to him. He has shone more brilliantly than the sun in the firmament of the faith in order to lead the faithful to virtue by his light and to move them to zeal, not only by his explanation of the words of salvation and the divinely-inspired teachings which flow from his lips as from an abundant fountain, but also by his angelic life and wondrous virtue he manifested. As an excellent his teacher, both his words and his life shed light. O Christ our God, by his prayers, save this flock and strengthen it in the true Faith in Your love for mankind.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR TONE IND = Forming a choir together, O fathers, let us sing of the friend of Christ, named for immortality, the true disciple of the Savior, the pride and glory of monks, their guide, who was consecrated to the Lord from his very childhood. His soul filled with love of God, he renounced the world and its allurements and took up the yoke of Christ. Courageously he withstood the hordes of demons, and by his life, he shows us the way for those who love God. Having followed it himself, he was eager to attain the vision of the Holy Trinity. O wondrous marvel, O divine wonder! Earthly by nature, he became angelic. Receiving great glory and honor from God, he intercedes for us, that we may find eternal goods on the judgment day of judgment.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
@AFTR TONE IND = The admirable deeds you accomplished of the life you lived in asceticism astonished the angels and amazed mankind. Indeed, you were an angel in a human body as you struggled with the bodiless enemy. Thus believers sing of you from age to age, and your venerable flock celebrates your efforts in a special way: for you established a wondrous city in the wilderness in founding a majestic dwelling for so many monks; and it is robed as with wondrous vestments, in the light of your miracles and generous deeds. It depends on your protection, O Athanasios, by your prayers of intercession before Christ our God, that He grant it great mercy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 5)
@AFTR TONE IND = Let our hymns resound, for the grace of the Spirit, clearer than any trumpet blast, calls us all together to sing of this God-bearing father. Let kings and princes honor this venerable servant of the Great King, who cast down the prince of this world, his powers and principalities, as he put on the armor of the Holy Spirit. Bishops and teachers, celebrate the rule and model for true good shepherds, the purity of his teachings, the nobility of his faith, his stature which reaches the very clouds in his contemplation and the practice of the virtues, the torrent of delights of his teachings. He is a guide for the wandering, a support for the faithful when they are shaken, and a treasury of compassion for all who suffer. Praising the great glory of Athos, let us all say: "O Athanasios, crown of the fathers, by your prayers never cease to protect your servants and to save your flock!"
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR TONE IND = Let our hymns resound, for the Virgin Mother, the Queen of all, places crowns of blessings from heaven upon those who sing to her name. Kings and princes, hasten to acclaim with canticles the Mother of the King who lovingly willed to save the captives from death. Bishops and teachers, celebrate together the all-pure Mother who brought into the world the Good Shepherd. She is the golden lampstand, the cloud bearing light, who has become more spacious than the heavens, the living ark, the fiery throne of the lord, the golden vessel containing the manna, the sealed Gate through which only the Word may pass. Let us then sing the praises of the Mother of God, calling upon her as the refuge of Christians: "Palace of the Word, grant the kingdom of heaven to your servants, for nothing is impossible to your divine intercession!"
Aposticha
Tone 5
1. Hail, O venerable father Athanasios, who exult with the angels in their choirs, for you lived their life on earth as you practiced the virtues, showing the purity of an unblemished mirror which receives the radiant lights of the Holy Spirit; thus you had the gift of prophecy, foreseeing all in the divine light of Christ; entreat Him to grant our souls great mercy.
v. Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of His faithful.
2. Hail, O leader of ascetics, their invincible protector! Cutting down the passions at their roots and valiantly withstanding the attacks of the demons, O Athanasios, you triumphed over their deadly conduct. You clearly showed the might and invincible power of the Cross of the Savior. With this as your armor, you conquered all the adversaries opposing the divine manifestation of Christ in the flesh; entreat Him to grant our souls great mercy.
v. Happy the man who fears the Lord, who takes delight in all His commands.
3. Pillar of fire supported by the virtues, cloud overshadowing those in the desert, you lead the monks of Athos from earth to heaven. You split the sea of the passions with the staff of the Cross. You put the devil to flight, like another Amalek, O blessed father. Without hindrance, you found the heavenly mount and a never-failing inheritance, where you rejoice with the angels before the throne of Christ; entreat Him to grant our souls great mercy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR APOSTICA = He is the jewel of the holy fathers, the glory of Christian ascetics, the fountain of divine miracles, our fervent intercessor before God. Come, O feast-lovers, let us sing him our praises and say, "Hail, emblem and rule of monastic life, and its most precise model! Hail, O flaming torch, illumining the earth with your virtues! Hail, consolation of the afflicted and fervent protector of the wretched! You never cease to intercede before Christ our God, O Athanasios, on behalf of your fold and for all the faithful who venerate your sacred dormition.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR APOSTICA = 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 = Troparion of Martha
Tone 8
@AFTR TROP/KON = In you O Mother Martyha 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, you soul is forever in happiness with the angels.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Athanasios
Tone 3
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Athanasios, the angels were amazed at your deeds as you faced spiritual struggles and overcame the devils. You are worthy of all praise, and Christ rewarded you with a manifold grace. O Father, intercede with Christ God that He may save our souls.
Resurrectional Theotokion
Tone 3 when needed
@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.
ORTHROS
@BOLD TITLE = Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
Tone 4
@AFTR SESSIONL = Taking up the Cross of Christ, O venerable Athanasios, you followed in His footsteps by your ascetic labors. O wondrous father, you became a perfect model for all monks who walk the way of holiness. Your accomplishments won you a place in the Kingdom on high: never cease to intercede for the salvation of our souls!
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Like the prophet, I cry aloud: "Enter not into judgment with me, O Lord: for I am well aware of my faults, and they condemn me. I say to You: O Lover of Mankind, by the prayers of the one who bore You, take pity on me, your humble and unworthy servant, as You did for the thief, the adulteress, the prodigal and the publican: for You have come to save not the just, but sinners!"
Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
Tone 4
@AFTR SESSIONL = Having repented before the Lord by your holy works and the purity of your life, O venerable Athanasios, you have won the lot of the bodiless angels.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR SESSIONL = Invincible protectress of the wretched, diligent advocate of those who place their hope in you: deliver me from all danger and despise not my appeal, O you who come to the aid of all.
@BOLD TITLE = Alternate Kontakion of Athanasios (TONE 2)
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Athanasios, you have put on the yoke of Christ and carried your cross with generosity; wherefore you have become a perfect imitator of Christ in His sufferings, and a participant in His glory, enjoying forever His divine Paradise.
Kontakion of Athanasios
Tone 8
@AFTR TROP/KON = We acclaim you as a most excellent contemplator of immaterial being and an authentic spiritual father in the practice of the virtues. As your flock, we cry aloud: do not cease to intercede before the Lord that He save from danger and distress the faithful who sing to you, "Hail, holy Athanasios of Athos!"
Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Having received from heaven the wonder of your name, you have inherited eternal life; on earth, you lived in your body the life of the bodiless angels: thus you have become free from the passions. Therefore we sing to you: Hail, glory of monks and their splendor! Hail, radiant pillar of chastity! Hail, sign of manifest courage! Hail, witness of wise thought! Hail, perfect balance of equanimity! Hail, O you who have submitted your acts to your spirit! Hail, O spirit enjoying ineffable vision! Hail, attentive observer of all creation! Hail, O you who brought shame upon the demons! Hail, O you who mortified all passions! Hail, O calm harbor safe from the storms of life! Hail, savior of those who sing to you with faith. "Hail, holy Athanasios of Athos!"
Synaxarion
On July 5, we commemorate our venerable and God-bearing father, Athanasios of Athos.
@SYNAX INDENT = Anthony the Great was the first of the fathers, but holy Athanasios was their crown. Although chronology puts him at the end of the line, asceticism assigns him one of the first places. When their temple collapsed, six disciples died with him, leaving the temple of their bodies. On the fifth, Athanasios is carried by the angels into the city of God: to him go our praises.
On the same day, we commemorate our venerable father Lampados.
@SYNAX INDENT = His lamp was filled with the oil of the virtues: the Bridegroom came, and Lampados went in with Him to the festal choirs.
By the prayers of Your saints, O Christ our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
Tone 2
@AFTR EXAPOST = From the East, you arose like a distant brilliant luminary, O Athanasios, and you have given light to the hands of the West by the radiant glow of your virtues; never cease to pray to the Lord for the whole world.
@AFTR EXAPOST = All-pure Queen of all, by the prayers of the venerable Athanasios, shelter from all adversity the flock which sings to you as the protectress of the world at all times.
Praises
Tone 8
4. Precious in your eyes, Lord, is the death of Your holy monk. Behold, Your servant has brought forth a flowing fountain of healings. After his death, he has driven out all types of illness and has put to flight the deadly spirits whom he had resisted totally throughout his life.
3. Precious in Your eyes... (Repeat)
2. The Lord has made your relics a source of miracles and a wave of gifts for mankind; they give sight to the blind and cleanse lepers. For those in bondage to demons, they provide deliverance and a restoration to health in spirit.
1. Hail, jewel of ascetics, guiding star for monks, pride of pastors, O father Athanasios, companion of all the just in heaven! Hail, fountain of innocence and love! Hail, dwelling of the Holy Trinity! Hail, light of discernment, with brilliant radiance! Hail, living pillar, pure model of the virtues!
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR PRAISES = Let us all acclaim the one named for immorality, the noble and valiant ascetic of Athos: he gathered together the first flock and with love built a temple to the Lore, consecrating it to the Mother of God. Before her, he intercedes for us who celebrate his sacred memory with faith.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR PRAISES = 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.
Great Doxology. Troparion of the Saint. Litanies and Dismissal.
Troparion
Tone 8
@AFTR TROP/KON = From youth, you received Christ into your soul, and you desired above all else to renounce worldly seduction. You bravely established your dwelling in the wilderness and there brought up children of obedience as the fruit of humility. Having been an abode of the Trinity, with your miracles you enlightened all those who came to you in faith. As you bestow abundant healings upon all, O our father Sergius, entreat Christ our God that He may save our souls.
Kontakion
Tone 8
@AFTR TROP/KON = Today, like the brightest sun, your venerable relics arose from the earth and were found to be as incorruptible as a fragrant flower. Radiant with a multitude of miracles and shedding various
healings upon all the faithful, you brought joy to your chosen flock, which you gathered and shepherded in wisdom. Standing now before the Trinity, intercede for them, and that victory may be granted to our country over its enemies, that we may cry out to you, "Hail, O Sergius, wise in God!"
July 6
Commemoration of our venerable father Sisoes the Great
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At O Lord, to You I call...
For Sisoes
Tone 4
3. Your festive memorial has dawned, radiant as the sun, O blessed and venerable father. Shining with the rays of your virtuous deeds and miracles, it enlightens the souls of believers with their brightness. On this feast, we joyfully glorify you as the pride of monks, and we call you blessed.
2. Living like an angel on earth, O blessed father, you consumed your body through vigils and fasts. Always keeping death in mind, you were ceaselessly rapt in the contemplation of God, lifting yourself up to Him in order to attain the Object of your desires; and you have reached the heights of perfection.
1. At your death, there occurred a wonder surpassing all understanding: the assembly of saints drew near in great numbers; your face grew as radiant as the rising sun, showing the splendor of your soul and its purity, confirming in the sight of all the blessed end which you had attained.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = All-pure dwelling of the Great King, Virgin all-worthy of our hymns: I entreat you to purify my spirit, stained by countless sins. Make it an acceptable dwelling for the Trinity, that I, your unworthy servant, may be saved, magnifying your great power and mercy.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = All-pure Virgin, your heart was pierced by the sword of sorrow, as Simeon had foretold: your heart and mind were rent when you saw your Son hanging on the Cross. You cried out to Him, "Do not forget me, O my Son! Make haste to arise, according to Your word, O long-suffering Lord!"
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Sisoes
Tone 1
@AFTR TROP/KON = You appeared as a citizen of the wilderness, an angel in the flesh and a wonderworker, our God inspired Father Sisoes. By fasting, vigils and prayer, you received heavenly gifts; You cure the sick and the souls of those who run to you in faith. Glory to Him who gave you this power; Glory to Him who crowned you; Glory to Him who through you performs healings for all.
ORTHROS
Kontakion of Sisoes
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = You retired to the wilderness and became as an angel in the flesh, O holy Sisoes. Because of your spiritual teachings, you are a shinning guide to the faithful. We glorify you fervently.
Synaxarion
On July 6, we commemorate our venerable father Sisoes the Great.
@SYNAX INDENT = At his death, Sisoes' name was inscribed in the book of God - during his life, he had been a book inscribed by the Holy Spirit. Having led an exemplary life, on the sixth, he left his earth for heaven.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
The rest is taken from the Parakletike
July 7
Commemoration of our venerable fathers Thomas of Maleum, Acadios, mentioned in the "Ladder", and of the holy and great woman martyr Cyriaca
(5th Class)
At O Lord, to You I call...
For Thomas
Tone 1
6. O Thomas, we acknowledge you to be a radiant star, enlightening the whole world with its mystical light, scattering the murky turbulence of the dark demons; thus, in faith, we celebrate your light-bearing memory.
5. You had once led an opulent life, enjoying wealth and power; but you reverently took the monastic habit in order to imitate the poverty of the One who was incarnate for our sake; and He enriched you with countless charisms.
4. In a pillar of fire, God visibly led you to salvation, to the calm harbor, to the safe shore of dispassion. Water flowed at your prayer, the blind were given sight, and the lame began to walk.
For Cyriaca
Tone 2
3. O victorious martyr of Christ, before the tribunal you bravely witnessed to the One who had willingly suffered Crucifixion. Enduring chains and varied torments, you joyously mounted to heaven in order to join the assembly of the martyrs who had confessed Christ from all ages; and now you rejoice in glory throughout the ages.
2. You are the chosen bride of the Word who appeared on earth, O Cyriaca; and you are resplendent in the beauty of your deeds and the radiant light of the passion you suffered for the sake of God. O virgin and martyr who ceaselessly exult in the heavenly tabernacles, remember all who keep your feast.
1. You are the wondrous offshoot of a noble branch, bearing as saving fruits the sufferings of your passion. In grace, you withered the weeds of the impious. Thus we lovingly venerate your holy memory, honoring your relics in spirit, in order to receive the grace of healing.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
(Tone 6)
@AFTR TONE IND = At the right hand of the Savior stands the virgin martyr, victorious in her combat, clothed in embroidered garments of her virtues, adorned with virginal purity, bedecked with the blood of her struggles. Having filled her lamp with the oil of gladness, she cries out to Him: "I am drawn to You in the fragrance of Your ointment, O Christ my God; Your love has wounded me; be not far from me, O heavenly Bridegroom!" By her prayers, grant us Your great mercy, O all-powerful Savior!
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Virgin all-worthy of our hymns, cast down the murderous might of our foes; change the sorrow of your people into joy, and restore us in your love; that, being saved, we may sing to you.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing our Life hanging upon the Cross, the all-pure Theotokos cried aloud with motherly grief: "O my Son and my God, save the faithful who sing to You!"
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Parakletike, with
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
@AFTR APOSTICA = In the city of our God, on His holy mountain, stands this holy woman, holding her lamp enkindled. Let us hear how a virgin is praised: Virginity is the temple of God, the glory of martyrs, and the companion of the angels in heaven.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BODY TXT IND = 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 = Pure Virgin, when you saw your Son and your God hanging on the Cross, you experienced great pain. Mourning and weeping, you cried aloud in anguish: "Alas, my beloved Child! How unjustly You suffer, in Your will to save the earthly sons of Adam!" Thus, O holy Virgin, we entreat you with faith: grant us the favor of your Son!
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Cyriaca
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your ewe lamb, O Jesus, cries out to You in a loud voice: "O my Bridegroom, I long for You and I struggle in my quest for You. I am crucified with You and buried with You in your Baptism. I suffer for your sake in order to reign with You; I die for You in order to live with You." Accept her as an immaculate victim, since she is immolated for your love. Through her intercession, O Merciful One, save our souls.
ORTHROS
Kontakion of Cyriaca
Tone 2
@AFTR TROP/KON = The martyr of Christ, Cyriaca, has called us now to celebrate her struggles and to sing a hymn of praise to her divine courage. She has mastered her imagination and conquered energetically her body's desires.
Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = When the error of idolatry ran rampant and overflowed the whole world, during the reign of the impious Diocletian, the most cruel of men, then the decadence of the godless and their wicked seductions were honored. The masses obeyed his voice, for he threatened death for those who would not accept his impiety. But is was then that the martyr of Christ, Cyriaca, defied their wicked orders and threats of the executioners, preaching Christ our God in the midst of the arena. She trampled the enemy underfoot, for she mastered her imagination and conquered energetically her body's desires.
Synaxarion
On July 7, we commemorate our venerable father Thomas of Maleum.
@SYNAX INDENT = Like one of the cherubim, unfurling its wings, O father, you left the earth to enter the Holy of Holies. On July 7, Thomas began his flight to heaven, to rejoice in the rewards awaiting him there.
On the same day, we commemorate the holy martyr Cyriaca, also known as Dominica.
@SYNAX INDENT = Cyriaca willingly goes forth to martyrdom. Bowing her head to the sword, she expires.
By the prayers of Your saints, O Christ our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
The rest is taken from the Parkletike
July 8
Commemoration of the holy great-martyr Procopios
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At O Lord, to You I call...
For Procopios
Tone 1
6. Marked out by the wisdom of God from your mother's womb, you also received a new name from heaven, like another Paul. Having learned of the voluntary Passion of Christ, you became His herald and true imitator, O Procopios, holy martyr.
5. Having wisely marked yourself with the Cross, the armor of victory, the sign of Christ, as with a mystic standard, O divinely-minded Procopios, you brought about the total collapse of the bold daring of the enemy. Casting down the idols, you fought even to the shedding of your blood.
4. O holy martyr, you once led to the Lord, the heavenly King, twelve believing women, as well as your soldier companions. Now, by your prayers, lead to Christ all those who celebrate your memory, O jewel of the martyrs.
@BOLD TITLE = Also for Procopios
Tone 4
3. You rose in the East like a blazing star, O Procopios, enlightening the ends of the earth by your miracles, your perseverance in the midst of torments, and the sublime radiance of your deeds. Thus, today, we celebrate your light-bearing feast, O Procopios, victorious martyr.
2. Your body was torn and burned by fire, O illustrious Procopios. Imprisoned, subject to all types of torments, O blessed one, you were finally beheaded by the sword and thus gained the Kingdom of heaven, where you now exult, filled with joy, O companion of the angels, O long-suffering martyr.
1. O holy Procopios, you led a whole army to the Creator; and in faith, they fought the good fight. You entered the choirs of martyrs in their company, having courageously cast down our enemy. Thus we call you blessed, O wondrous and unconquerable soldier, noble jewel and champion of the Faith.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TONE IND = Your wondrous feast shines upon us today, O long-suffering Procopios, inviting us feast-lovers to celebrate the glory of Christ our God. Thus we hasten to your sacred reliquary to receive the gift of healing; and we sing throughout the ages, ceaselessly glorifying Christ the Savior, who crowned you.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Lady, to you I lift up the gaze of my heart: do not despise my poor petitions; but, at the hour in which your Son shall judge the world, be for me a refuge, help and shelter.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing our Life hanging upon the Cross, the all-pure Theotokos cried aloud with motherly grief: "O my Son and my God, save the faithful who sing to You!"
Aposticha
Tone 4
1. Your name was given to you from heaven, just as it was to the preacher to the Gentiles, O illustrious Procopios. Illumined in spirit, you renounced the darkness of idolatry and became a light for believers, enlightening the world with the divine radiance of your sacred struggles, O glory and pride of martyrs.
v. God is wonderful among His Saints, the God of Israel.
2. Having first put a bridle upon the appetites of the flesh, you then marched bravely into combat with the power of the Spirit, O blessed Procopios, having no concern for your body. The, since you endured
all types of torments, you were taken up into the heavenly choirs as a crowned martyr.
v. God has displayed wonders in the saints who dwell in His land; all His good pleasure is upon them.
3. Arming yourself with the Cross, as an invincible captain of the armies, you drowned all the enemy forces in the rivers of your own blood, and rained down an abundance of healing. Drawing from the fountain of the Savior, you refresh all those who are parched by the fire of passions.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR APOSTICA = Illumined by the mystic radiance of the Trinity, the Supreme Light, you have become light in your communion of life with God, O Procopios, divinely-minded martyr. By your prayers, save the faithful who celebrate your light-bearing memorial from all trial and temptation.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Hail, fiery chariot, mystical radiance, who brought into the world the shining Light that never fades nor sets. Hail, O murex shell, whose blood dyed the purple robe destined for the King of All! Hail, all-pure protection of believers who call upon your name with confidence!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = "Lord, what sight is this? You hold the whole creation in Your hands, yet are nailed to the Cross! You are the Author of life, yet are put to death!" Thus spoke the all-holy Theotokos, when she saw upon the Cross the God-Man whom she had wondrously born.
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Procopios
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your martyr O Lord, received the crown of immortality from You. O our God, on account of his struggle. Armed with Your strength he has vanquished his persecutors, and crushed the powerless arrogance of demons. Through his supplications, O Christ God, save our souls.
ORTHROS
Kontakion of Procopios
Tone 2
@AFTR TROP/KON = O Procopios, you were burning with divine zeal for Christ: you assumed the power of the Cross as your shield and thus broke down the enemy's pride and his power, upholding the glory of the Church while growing in faith and giving us all an example to follow.
Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Grant wisdom to my mouth, O Word, existing before all ages: I propose to sing of your soldier Procopios, and of the treasury of Your great compassion, O Christ, in the depth of Your judgments. May my soul be swept free of all darkness and my spirit by cleansed of all stain. May my good deeds make me a temple of holiness, that I may worthily sing of Your martyr, who grew in faith and gave us all an example to follow.
Synaxarion
On July 8, we commemorate the holy great-martyr Procopios.
@SYNAX INDENT = Bending his head, Procopios told them: "Strike, for I will never sacrifice to the idols!" On the eighth, they were busy with his head on earth; but Christ glorified it with a crown in heaven.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
Tone 3
@AFTR EXAPOST = Your name came to you from heaven, as it did for holy Paul. Growing in keeping with that name, you led a whole army of martyrs to the Lord. Intercede in company with them, O Procopios, on behalf of all who sing your praises.
@AFTR EXAPOST = Strengthen Your Church in its struggles, O Word, and grant Your people victory over the enemy, through the prayers of the Theotokos, whom You have given Christians as their protectress.
Praises
Tone 2
4. Procopios, great glory of martyrs, your name signifies growth in God: by the boldness which you possess as you stand ceaselessly before His throne, pray for the growth in Him of those who are acceptable in His sight by their deeds, walking in His ways, as they call you blessed with their whole heart.
Tone 3
3. Like holy Paul, you were overwhelmed by grace from heaven in your youth. With the armor of the Cross, you overthrew the boldness of the terrible warrior. Procopios, illustrious glory of the martyrs, call upon the Lord on our behalf: intercede for the salvation of our souls.
Tone 4
2. O long-suffering martyr Procopios, earthly lips sing praise to our God in your sacred memory: for you were an outstanding soldier of the Word, in whom we believe, when you made the idols collapse in the arena. Now that you are sharing the light of the Trinity, send His radiance upon us through your prayers.
Tone 5
1. Adorned with your exploits, O holy martyr, today the Church exults in spirit, worthily celebrating your memory as it sings: "Hail, imitator of Saint Paul, who have carried the Cross of Christ and broken the nets of the enemy! Hail, O best of martyrs, refuge of those struck by illness, bulwark of the faith and firm support for believers! By your boldness before Him, intercede constantly for us with the Lord!"
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR PRAISES = You received your name from God Himself, O martyr Procopios, like another Paul, and you progressed, growing in God. In your confidence in the Cross, you valiantly disdained the impiety of your executioners and the cruelty of the torments. Thus, you resisted sin, even to the shedding of your blood, as you fought with the invisible foe. Ceaselessly you intercede before the divine Redeemer, that He grant peace to the world and great mercy to our souls.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR PRAISES = O Lady, receive the prayer of your servants: deliver us from all danger and affliction.
July 9
Commemoration of the holy hieromartyr Pancratios, Bishop of Tauromina in Sicily
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At O Lord, to You I call...
For Pancratios
Tone 2
3. When Peter the Rock, the standard-bearer of the divine Apostles, travelled throughout the world, he made it firm on a solid foundation. In you, he found a stone of great price, and he destined you to be the cornerstone of a church, O blessed one. You overthrew the temples and sacred stones of the idols by the divine power of the Word who willed, in His good pleasure, to take flesh and make His dwelling among us.
2. Driving off the dark spirits of evil by your word, O Pancratios, you made your people spiritual through the grace of the Holy Spirit. You plowed the furrows of their hearts and made them grow as good wheat, which you presented to the Master of the harvest. You intercede for the faithful who acclaim you, O holy martyr.
1. You have changed the West into an East, filled with dawning light, for you brought it, as its sun, the knowledge of God who ineffably dawned for us all from the Virgin. Then, setting in martyrdom, O holy father, you dawned again in the never-setting Light. Now that mirrors have passed away, you gaze directly upon the desired beauty of the Judge of all combats.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = In your goodness, O Virgin, you protect by the power of your hand all the faithful who take refuge in you. We sinners have no other defense before God but you, afflicted as we are in the midst of dangers. Thus, O Mother of God, You desire to honor Your creation. How can You suffer dishonor in Your flesh? O Lover of Mankind, I glorify Your condescension and Your infinite mercy!"
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Pancratios
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = Sharer in the Apostle's way of life and successor on their thrones, inspired by God, you found ascetical effort as the means to contemplation. And so, dispensing rightly the word of truth, you fought for the faith unto the shedding of your blood, O Hieromartyr Pancratius. Intercede with Christ God for the salvation of our souls.
ORTHROS
Kontakion of Pancratios
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = You shone like a radiant star upon the people of Tauromina, O holy hieromartyr Pancratios, who bore witness to Christ: intercede before Him on behalf of those who sing to you, O blessed one.
Synaxarion
On July 9, we commemorate the holy hieromartyr Pancratios, Bishop of Tauromina.
@SYNAX INDENT = He himself was placed as the cornerstone. With the stones of his martyrdom, Pancratios builds his dwelling. On the ninth, living his last hour, he is worthily able to see the house of the Mighty One.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
Tone 3
@AFTR EXAPOST = Holy Peter, the Rock of Faith, set you solidly as the cornerstone of a church, O martyr Pancratios. Together with him, O holy father, protect your flock from all damage caused by the enemy of mankind.
@AFTR EXAPOST = It is you alone whom we have chosen as our mediator before your Son and your God, all we the faithful who have been crucified with Him. O Theotokos, never cease to intercede for us who sing to you with faith.
July 10
Commemoration of our holy father Anthony of the Caves (Russian)
Troparion
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = Fleeing all earthly temptation, you followed Christ in His Gospel by renouncing the world. Having lived the life of an angel, you reached the calm harbor of the holy Mount Athos. With the blessing of the fathers you came from there to the mountains of Kiev. where you ended the labors of your life, shedding light on all your fatherland. Showing the path that leads to the heavenly Kingdom to a multitude of monks, you brought Him to save our souls.
Kontakion
Tone 8
@AFTR TROP/KON = Entrusting yourself to God whom you had loved from your childhood, O venerable father, you followed Him above all else in love with your whole soul. Renouncing this passing world as nothing, you took up your dwelling in a cave. There you valiantly fought against the wiles of the invisible enemy, and as a resplendent sun, you shone upon all the ends of the earth. Joyfully passing over to the heavenly palaces and now standing with the angels before the throne of the Lord, be mindful of us who honor your memory, that we may all call out to you, "Hail, O our father Anthony!"
July 10
Our Venerable Father Anthony of the Caves in Kiev, Leader of All Russian Monks
GREAT VESPERS
First Kathisma: "Blessed is the man..."
At "Lord, I have called...," the following Stichera, on 6.
(Tone 4)
Special Melody: "Called from above..."
1. When divine love came down on you, O Venerable One, then you reckoned earthly passions as being something evil. Therefore, you became a stranger to your native land, traveling to the Holy Mountain. Among the other Fathers there you shone like a star in virtues, O Anthony. Pray to Christ Whom you have served from your youth to save and enlighten our souls.
2. When you were enflamed with love of Christ, O Venerable One, you felt hatred toward the wisdom and glory of this world as being passing things. Therefore, you made for yourself a cave and in it you struggled like one without a body. For this you have been granted the honors of the Bodiless Ones on High. Standing with them before Christ pray that He save and enlighten our souls.
3. When you received divine love in your heart. O Father, you entered into a dark cave as into a truly-bright chamber. There being enriched by ineffable understanding, you were able to see the future as the present and to speak of this to all with clarity. Beseech Christ to Whom you subjected yourself from youth, O Venerable One, to save and enlighten our souls.
@BOLD TITLE = Other Stichera to the Venerable One
Tone 5
Special Melody: "O Venerable Father..."
4. O Venerable Father Anthony, having illumined your mind with the grace of the Most-holy Spirit, with clearsighted prophecy you foretold the wrath of God, which was about to befall the Orthodox. You assured Simon of salvation from the warriors, and you foretold the building of a church by him in which he was later to be lain. Therefore, we all hymn you, for always you are mediating every good thing. We pray that through you we may receive from Christ great mercy.
5. O Venerable Father Anthony, fulfilling the commands of Christ the True Shepherd and Teacher, after your repose, out of loving concern showing to Erasmus who had lived carelessly, the riches of repentance, by your prayers and appearance to him you transformed his deadly sickness. Granting him time for repentance you guided others to chastity. Therefore, beseech Christ that our souls may be saved.
6. O Venerable Father Anthony, chastely and with God's help you guided the ship of your mind, obediently sailing across the gulf of passions of the sea of this world. Directed by the sails of the Most-holy Spirit, you reached the calm harbor of the heavenly homeland, where is the abode of the Saints and the repose of the Righteous. With them pray that we may receive entrance there, we beseech you.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TONE IND = Your severe life and labors for God became known to the Father of the Holy Mountain. Then, by divine economy, they sent you back again to your homeland, saying: "Go, child, so that by you those not knowing God may come to know Him." You went back there, O Venerable One, and you illumined your homeland, becoming a superior of monks. Thus a multitude of these were brought to Christ. Pray for us who are feasting your truly resplendent falling-asleep, that our souls be saved and guarded from the enemy legions.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TONE IND = Who will not call you blest, O Most-holy Virgin? Who will not sing of your most-holy birthgiving? For the Only-begotten Son Who shone timelessly from the Father, came forth from you, O Pure One, and was ineffably incarnate. God by nature, yet for our sakes He became by nature a man, not in two persons being divided, but known as united in two natures. Beseech Him, O Pure and All-blessed One, to be merciful to our souls.
Entrance, Prokimenon of the Day, and three readings: 1. Wisdom 3: 1-9 2; Wisdom 5: 15-6:3; 3. Wisdom 4: 7-15.
Litya: The Stichera of the church or monastery, and the following to St. Anthony
Tone 1: "Of the Tone"
1. By means of divine Providence you were named for the namesake of your life, O Anthony, receiving your appellation from your deeds. For by your teachings gathering a multitude of disciples who followed after you, you led them to God, as a partner with the Venerable and Righteous Ones. Standing with them before the Trinity, pray for us who are glorifying with hymns your most-glorious falling-asleep.
2. Avoiding the passionate darkness of this world, O Venerable Anthony, you abode in a cave and descended there to the depths of divine understanding, O Truly-wondrous One. Therefore, as one with clearness of sight, you were granted to know beforehand things which were far away and to speak clearly of them as if they were near. You were an intercessor for those sinful people sick with human sins, and you foretold prophetically the invasion of barbarians. We beseech you, O Father, and we pray that we be delivered of such threats and that our souls may be saved.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 2)
3. Whose human understanding or tongue is able to speak out or praise your life, as is meet? For on account of your life in the body equal to the angels, those on earth were amazed and praised Christ Who granted you such victories over the passions, O Venerable One. Beseech Him, O Truly-praised One, that we who are glorifying you may be saved, O Truly-wondrous Anthony.
4. Blessed is the cave, O Venerable One, which has in itself your precious relics from which flow healings to the faithful. Blessed are your disciples who have acquired you as such a teacher and who have been called "children" by such a father, O Truly-wondrous Anthony the Intercessor for our souls.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 4)
5. Now your all-precious and hallowed body lies in a cave, O Venerable Anthony, in which many have labored together in this life. And abundantly it spills out healing to those coming to it in faith. Therefore, we all beseech you: By your prayers always grant spiritual health to those calling you blessed.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TONE IND = You acquired great faith and boldness towards God, O Venerable Anthony. For resembling the Prophet Gideon, who by means of a fleece spilled out victory, you, O Father, desired by means of dew to know the place prepared by the Sovereign Lady and Queen. Therefore, you spoke, since grace had come upon you: "There will be dew across the whole land, and on the spot where She has desired a church to be, let it be dry. And again, let there be dew on the place (while the rest is dry)." You obtained the fulfillment of both, O Father. Therefore, you raised up a truly-precious temple to the Mother of God. With her pray to Christ, we beseech you, that our souls may be saved.
Aposticha
Tone 1
@TONE # = Special Melody: "O All-praised Martyrs..."
1. You followed in the footsteps of the great Anthony, O Venerable One, for as he lived in the desert for the sake of silence and was granted to be a companion to the angels, you were enclosed in an underground place-in a cave-being granted to see the Ineffable Light. Therefore, having imitated his life, you received his title on account of your deeds. Standing with him before the Holy Trinity, pray that our souls may be saved.
v. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.
2. Like a brightly-lit lamp you shone in a dark place, and, as the Prophet said, you flourished like a palm tree in the house of God, bringing the fruit of your most-holy body as a living bloodless sacrifice to the Master Himself, O Father. Therefore, having assembled together with love, we all bless you forever as our inheritance.
v. Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments.
3. The cave in which lay your sacred body, O Venerable Anthony, by the power of the Most-holy Spirit heals the various infirmities of those coming to it in faith. It drives away demons from men and those enfeebled leave it, having received soundness of body. Thus we glorify the Lord, saying: Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints!
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TONE IND = Resembling the Prophet Elijah, O Venerable Anthony, because of your truly-great faith you obtained the fulfillment of an astonishing petition. As he had brought down fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice, in like manner, by your prayer you brought fire down from heaven to, as it were, consume and purify the place where was to be erected a most-glorious temple of the Sovereign Lady and Theotokos. Therefore, as a partner with the Venerable Ones and zealous Prophets, calling you blessed we beseech you: Entreat Christ that our souls may be saved.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR THEOTOK = My Maker and Deliverer, Christ the Lord, came from your loins, O Most-pure One, having clothed Himself in my nature He freed Adam from the ancient curse. Therefore, unceasingly we cry out to you, O All-pure One, as you are in truth Mother of God and Virgin: Rejoice, O Celestial One! Rejoice, O Sovereign Lady! The Mediators, Protection and Salvation of our souls!
@BOLD TITLE = At the Blessing of the Loaves
Troparion
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = Having departed from worldly tumults, in leaving the world you followed Christ according to the Gospel. You reached the quiet refuge of the Holy Mountain of Athos, living there a life equal-to-the-angels. Therefore, with the blessing of the Fathers, you came to the hills of Kiev. There having fulfilled a life loving of labors, you illumined your homeland. And having shown a multitude of monastics the pathway leading to the Heavenly Kingdom, you led them to Christ. Beseech Him, O Venerable Anthony, that He save our souls.
The Troparion is sung twice and "Rejoice, O Virgin Theotokos..." (once).
Kontakion
Tone 8
@TONE # = Special Melody: "O Victorious Leader..."
@AFTR TROP/KON = Having bestowed yourself from youth to God Whom you loved above all, O Venerable One, in love you followed after Him with your whole soul.
@AFTR TROP/KON = Scorning the passing corruption of the world, you made a cave in the earth, and in it you struggled nobly in the face of the snares of the invisible enemy, illumining all the ends of the earth like a bright, shining sun. Therefore, with rejoicing you passed over to the Heavenly Chambers. Standing now before the throne of the Master together with the Angels, remember us who are honoring your holy memory, that we may cry out to you: Rejoice, Anthony our Father!
July 10
Commemoration of the Forty-five Holy Martyrs of Nicopolis in Armenia
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At O Lord, to You I call...
For the Martyrs
Tone 1
3. O wondrous martyrs, although broken and crushed by the stones, you did not deny Christ, the Cornerstone which never falters. By grace, you became trophy-bearers and now exult in the choir of angels. Together with them, ask the Lord to grant our souls peace and great mercy.
2. O victorious martyrs, you were imprisoned together because you kept the saving precepts of God. Consumed by thirst, you were refreshed in spirit by a dew sent from heaven. Standing now in heaven, ask the Lord to grant our souls peace and great mercy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = I am constantly the prey of many evils. Wretched as I am, where can I take refuge, unless in you, O Lady, my only help and the hope of the hopeless? Bride of God, do not despise your servant, unworthy as I am, O prompt helper of the afflicted.
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = Seeing Christ hanging on the Cross, the Virgin said, "A sword has pierced my heart, as the elder Simeon foretold. But arise, O immortal Lord, and glorify Your Mother and handmaid together with You, I entreat You!"
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of the Martyrs
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your martyrs O Lord, received the crown of immortality from You O our God, on account of their struggle. Armed with your strength they have vanquished their persecutors, and crushed the powerless arrogance of demons. Through their supplications, O Christ God, save our souls.
ORTHROS
Kontakion of the Martyrs
Tone 8
@AFTR TROP/KON = For love of Christ, you submitted to many torments, O holy martyrs, and you cast down the multitude of idols. Destroying all error, you have triumphed through the power of Christ; and we have learned to sing with faith, "Alleluia, glory to You, O God!"
Synaxarion
On July 10, we commemorate the forty-five martyrs who bore witness at Nicopolis in Armenia.
@SYNAX INDENT = A new company is presented before God. They stand at attention before Him even in the midst of fire. On the tenth, the flames enkindle the martyrs of Nicopolis, but they already burn more intensely by their zeal, as courageous soldiers.
By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
Tone 3
@AFTR EXAPOST = With courage and wisdom, the forty-five holy martyrs struggled until they had broken the enemy into pieces. By their prayers, O Savior, save us!
@AFTR EXAPOST = All we sinners have you as our protectress, O Virgin full of the grace of God; by the boldness you possess before Him as His Mother, implore the favor of your Son for us all.
July 11
Commemoration of the holy and illustrious woman, the Great-Martyr Euphemia
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At O Lord, to You I call...
For Euphemia
@TONE # = (Tone ??)
3. O wondrous marvel! The lamb of the Lord imitated Him in the pains of her martyrdom by voluntarily submitting to death. Now, although she lies in the tomb, by the power of the Spirit, she makes blood flow from her body. We who have recourse to this fountain for the healing of our souls, sing each day the praises of God.
2. Truly glorious martyr, you endured the attacks of wild beasts, as did Daniel of old. By grace, you confronted the fire and laughed at its threat. Suffering all your torments, you receive the crown of victory that will never pass away. You joyfully went forth to the One you loved; thus we glorify you and call you blessed.
1. O wondrous Euphemia, the assembly of the holy fathers placed at the head of your coffin the Symbol of the Faith; you took the document into you hand, having faultlessly kept the faith, thus overthrowing all false doctrine and confounding the defenders of heresy. Thus, we glorify you and call you blessed.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TONE IND = At the right hand of the Savior stand the virgin martyr, victorious in her struggles, clothed in the invincible mantle of her virtues, adorned with virginal purity, crowned with the blood of her combat. She filled her lamp with the oil of gladness and cries out to Him: "I have run to the fragrance of Your perfume, O Christ my God; Your love has pierced me. Stay not far from me, O heavenly Bridegroom!" By her prayers, send Your great mercy down upon us, O all-powerful Lord!
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE IN = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = O Virgin all-worthy of our praise: cast down the murderous power of the enemy; change the sadness of your people into joy; accept us in your love, that, being saved, we may sing to you!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@BODY TXT IND = Seeing our Life hanging upon the Cross, the all-pure Theotokos cried aloud with a mother's grief: "O my Son and my God, save the faithful who sing to You!"
@BOLD TITLE = Aposticha of the Octoechos, with
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 6)
@AFTR TONE IND = You who blossomed in virtues and were radiant in your thoughts, now bring a sweet fragrance to the hearts of believers. You rose in the East like a resplendent star and brought together the holy fathers under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. O illustrious Euphemia, ceaselessly intercede with the Lord that He may save our souls!
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@BODY TXT IND = Theotokion
@AFTR THEOTOK = Hail, glory of the Apostles, joy of the angels in heaven! Hail, pride of all and crown of the faithful, O spotless Virgin!
@BOLD TITLE IN = or Stavrotheotokion
@AFTR STAVRO = O Christ, when she saw You crucified, the woman who brought You into the world cried aloud: "Most sweet Child, my Son and my God, how can You suffer this shameful Passion?"
@BOLD TITLE = Troparion of Euphemia
Tone 4
@AFTR TROP/KON = Your ewe lamb, O Jesus, cries out to You in a loud voice: "O my Bridegroom, I long for you and I struggle in my quest for You. I am crucified with You in Your Baptism. I suffer for your sake in order to reign with You; I die for You in order to live with You." Accept her as an immaculate victim, since she is immolated for your love. Through her intercession, O Merciful One, save our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@BOLD TITLE = Another Troparion of Euphemia
Tone 3
@AFTR TROP/KON = You filled the Orthodox with joy and put to shame the supporters of error, O Euphemia, the beautiful Virgin of Christ! You gave a seal of approval to the salutary doctrine of the Fourth Ecumenical Council. O glorious Martyr, intercede therefore with Christ God that He may grant us an abundance of mercy.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Theotokion or Stavrotheotokion
ORTHROS
Kontakion of Euphemia
Tone 2
@AFTR TROP/KON = You took part in the struggle with great valor, defending faith in Christ, your beloved Savior. Through the powerful intercession of the Mother of God, intercede with Christ that He may wipe out false teachings and humiliate the enemy's pride under the feet of the Church, O Euphemia worthy of all praise, who have received the rock of faith from the six hundred and thirty fathers of the Council, and preserved it faithfully.
Ikos
@AFTR IKOS = Of what shall we first sing? Your struggles, your virginity, your pure life? The Father has made you the bride of His Son; the Holy Spirit has adorned you with splendor. What praises could tell of this, and who could sing of the never-setting glory that surrounds you? Rising from the tomb like the sun in the East, you give light to all places. On islands, lands and sea, you sanctify all as you give forth your perfume; for you have received the rock of faith from the six hundred and thirty fathers of the Council, and preserved it faithfully.
Synaxarion
On July 11, we commemorate the holy and illustrious woman, the Great-Martyr Euphemia.
@SYNAX INDENT = While lying in your coffin, O martyr Euphemia, you dictated the Law for the Church by your hand, upholding the Faith for which you had struggled. On the eleventh, she confirms the true teaching.
By her holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us. Amen.
@BOLD TITLE = Exapostilaria
Tone 3
@AFTR EXAPOST = Although dead, you still pour forth your blood like a life-giving myrrh, for you are alive in the living God, and you keep in your hands the tablets on which the teachings of Christ were written; thus we acclaim you, O holy martyr Euphemia.
@AFTR EXAPOST = In you, pure Virgin, God has given us a refuge, fortress and help in trials and afflictions; thus, deign to deliver us from all our miseries.
Praises
For Euphemia
Tone 1
4. Seeing the feast of the holy martyr Euphemia solemnly celebrated, O faithful, let us sing a thanksgiving hymn to our God, who is wonderful in His plans. For, through a woman, He has cast down the invisible might of the powerful enemy; and in the weakness of the martyr Euphemia, His divine strength is made perfect. By her prayers, may He grant us great mercy.
3. Seeing the feast... (Repeat)
2. Having filled the cup of truth with her own blood in her struggles, the wondrous martyr of Christ presents it continually to the Church. With her voice, Wisdom cries aloud to the children of the Faith and says to them: "Come, drink of the cup of the witness to the divine Resurrection, who drives away the enemies of the Faith, purifies us from passions, and protects the souls of believers!" Cry out, then, to the Savior: You pour out for us the streams of delight of the Spirit: grant us great mercy!
1. Our souls were sealed by the blood of the Savior for the day of redemption; with joyful hearts, as the Prophet says, let us receive the blood which pours forth for us from the fountain of the holy martyr, who imitated the life-giving sufferings of Christ and enjoys His endless glory. Let us cry out, then, to Him: "Lord, who are glorified in Your Saints, by the prayers of Your illustrious martyr Euphemia, grant us great mercy!'
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 8)
@AFTR TONE IND = Every tongue moves in praise of the glorious Euphemia. People of every age, maidens and children, crown the virgin martyr of Christ with hymns. Having bravely fought the good fight according to the rules, although a woman, she overthrew the hostile tyrant in her struggles. A divine and heavenly crown rests upon her as she prays to Christ, her Bridegroom, to grant us great mercy.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR TONE IND = O Lady, receive the prayers of your servants: deliver us from all peril and affliction.
The Great Doxology may be sung, followed by the Troparion, litanies and dismissal. Or, if not, at the Aposticha of the Parakletike, the following is added:
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
@TONE # INDENT = (Tone 1)
@AFTR TONE IND = Today, O Euphemia, the choir of Fathers assembled by Christ entrusted to you the scroll containing the clear definition of the Orthodox Faith. Receiving it in your hands, you kept it until the end. Thus, we, the assembly of mankind, glorify together your martyrdom and say, "Hail, holy Euphemia, who have faultlessly kept the Orthodox Faith, that heritage handed down to us by the Fathers! Hail, O you who intercede for our souls!"
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
@AFTR TONE IND = Joy of the angels in heaven, protectress of mankind on earth, pure Virgin: save us who take refuge in you; for, after God, all our hope rests in you, O Theotokos.
July 11
THE HOLY MARTYR EUPHEMIA THE ALL-PRAISED; THE REPOSE OF THE BLESSED OLGA, PRINCESS OF RUSSIA, (CALLED HELENA, IN HOLY BAPTISM).
VESPERS