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Menaion - November 21

The Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos

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MATINS

CHOIR

Mode 4.

God is the Lord, and He revealed Himself to us. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. [SAAS]

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

Verse 2: All the nations surrounded me, but in the name of the Lord I defended myself against them.

Verse 3: And this came about from the Lord, and it is wonderful in our eyes.

Apolytikion of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4.

Today is the prelude of God’s good pleasure, and the proclamation of humanity’s salvation. In the temple of God, the Virgin is presented openly, and in herself she announces Christ to all. Let us, then, with a great voice cry aloud to her: “Rejoice, you are the fulfillment of the Creator’s dispensation.” (3) [SD]

PRIEST

Again and again in peace let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

Remembering our all-holy, immaculate, most blessed, and glorious Lady, the Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us commend ourselves and one another and our whole life to Christ our God.

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For Yours is the dominion, and Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory, of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

Kathisma I.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. The soldiers keeping watch.

Τὸν τάφον σου Σωτήρ.

The feeder of our Life, now an infant in body, * the offspring of the just Joachim and Anna, * is offered to God today in the holy Sanctuary. * She was blessed therein by the priest Zacharias. * Therefore let us all, with faith, proclaim she is blessed,* for she is the Mother of the Lord. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Repeat.

Kathisma II.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.

Consecrated unto God * were you before you were conceived; * being born on earth, to Him * you now are offered as a gift, * O pure one, filling the promise made by your parents. * In purity returned unto the Temple divine * from infancy with lamps brightly shining, in truth * you were a temple divine and a vessel * of the divine unapproachable Light. * How truly great is your sacred entrance, * O only ever-virgin Bride of God. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Repeat.

Kathisma III.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. When he perceived.

Τὸ προσταχθέν.

Exult, O David, the composer of divine hymns; * and dance for joy, O Joachim along with Anna; * for from you has come forth a most holy offspring, * yes, Mary the divine lantern bearing the light. * And as she enters the Temple she does rejoice. * As he saw her, the priestly son of Barachiah blest her, * and full of joy he cried aloud, Rejoice, wonder of all the world. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Repeat.

PRIEST

Again and again in peace let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For blessed is Your name, and glorified is Your kingdom, of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

CHOIR

Antiphon 1.

Mode 4.

From my youth, many passions war against me. O my Savior, I implore You, uphold me and save me. (2) [GOASD]

You who hate Zion, be shamed by the Lord; for you will be withered like grass in the fire. (2) [GOASD]

Glory.

By the Holy Spirit every soul is animated, and when purified, it is mystically uplifted and brightened by the triune Godhead. [GOASD]

Both now.

From the Holy Spirit the streams of grace well forth; they water all creation, so that life be engendered. [GOASD]

Prokeimenon. Psalm 44.

Listen, O daughter, behold and incline your ear, and forget your people and your father’s house. For the King desired your beauty. (2)

Verse: My heart overflowed with a good word; I tell my works to the King.

Listen, O daughter, behold and incline your ear, and forget your people and your father’s house. For the King desired your beauty. [SAAS]

Stand for the Gospel reading.

DEACON: Let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

For You, our God, are holy, and You rest among the holy ones, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

Mode 2.

Let everything that breathes praise the Lord. (2) Let everything that breathes praise the Lord. [SAAS]

DEACON

Let us pray to the Lord our God that we may be made worthy to hear the holy Gospel.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Wisdom. Arise. Let us hear the holy Gospel.

PRIEST: Peace be with all.

CHOIR: And with your spirit.

PRIEST

The reading is from the holy Gospel according to Luke.

DEACON: Let us be attentive.

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

PRIEST (from the gate)

Lk. 1:39 – 49, 56

In those days, Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.” And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her home. [RSV]

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

READER

Psalm 50 (51).

Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your great mercy; and according to the abundance of Your compassion, blot out my transgression. Wash me thoroughly from my lawlessness and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my lawlessness, and my sin is always before me. Against You only have I sinned and done evil in Your sight; that You may be justified in Your words, and overcome when You are judged. For behold, I was conceived in transgressions, and in sins my mother bore me. Behold, You love truth; You showed me the unknown and secret things of Your wisdom. You shall sprinkle me with hyssop, and I will be cleansed; You shall wash me, and I will be made whiter than snow. You shall make me hear joy and gladness; my bones that were humbled shall greatly rejoice. Turn Your face from my sins, and blot out all my transgressions. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me with Your guiding Spirit. I will teach transgressors Your ways, and the ungodly shall turn back to You. Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, the God of my salvation, and my tongue shall greatly rejoice in Your righteousness. O Lord, You shall open my lips, and my mouth will declare Your praise. For if You desired sacrifice, I would give it; You will not be pleased with whole burnt offerings. A sacrifice to God is a broken spirit, a broken and humbled heart God will not despise. Do good, O Lord, in Your good pleasure to Zion, and let the walls of Jerusalem be built; then You will be pleased with a sacrifice of righteousness, with offerings and whole burnt offerings; then shall they offer young bulls on Your altar. [SAAS]

From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Glory. Mode 2.

Today the animate temple of the great King comes into the Temple, to prepare herself to become His divine dwelling. O peoples, be exultant. [SD]

Both now.

Today the animate temple of the great King comes into the Temple, to prepare herself to become His divine dwelling. O peoples, be exultant. [SD]

Idiomelon. Mode 4.

Verse: Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your great mercy; and according to the abundance of Your compassion, blot out my transgression. [SAAS]

Today the Theotokos, the temple that contains God, is led into the Temple of God; and Zacharias welcomes her. Today the Holy of Holies is exultant, and the chorus of Angels mystically celebrates. Together with them let us also keep the feast today, and with Gabriel let us cry aloud: Rejoice, O Maiden full of grace, the Lord is with you; and He has the great mercy. [SD]

PRIEST

O God, save Your people and bless Your inheritance. Look upon Your world with mercy and compassion. Raise the Orthodox Christians in glory, and send down upon us Your rich mercies:

through the intercessions of our all-immaculate Lady Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary, whose Entry into the Temple we celebrate, by the power of the precious and life-giving Cross, the protection of the honorable, heavenly, bodiless powers, the supplications of the honorable, glorious prophet and forerunner John the Baptist, the holy, glorious, and praiseworthy apostles, our fathers among the saints, the great hierarchs and ecumenical teachers Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom; Athanasius, Cyril, and John the Merciful, patriarchs of Alexandria, Nicholas, bishop of Myra, Spyridon, bishop of Trimythous, Nektarios of Pentapolis, the wonderworkers; the holy, glorious, great martyrs George the triumphant, Demetrios the myrrh-streamer, Theodore the soldier, and Theodore the general; Menas the wonderworker; Charalampus and Eleutherius, the hieromartyrs; the holy, glorious, and victorious martyrs; the glorious great Martyr and all-laudable Euphemia; the holy and glorious Martyrs Thecla, Barbara, Anastasia, Catherine, Kyriaki, Photini, Marina, Paraskevi and Irene; our venerable and God-bearing fathers; (local patron saint); the holy and righteous ancestors of God Joachim and Anna; and all Your saints:

We beseech you, only merciful Lord, hear us sinners who pray to you and have mercy on us.

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy. (12)

PRIEST

Through the mercy, compassion, and love for humankind of Your only-begotten Son, with whom You are blessed, and Your all-holy, good and life-creating Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-1

The Canon

From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Ode i.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Heirmos. Mode 4.

Ἀνοίξω τὸ στόμα μου.

I open my mouth and pray the Spirit fill it, like David said, * to pour out a good word to the Queen and Mother of God. * I will celebrate * her feast with joy and gladness * and sing to her merrily, lauding her Entry. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O wholly immaculate, we know you well as a treasury * of wisdom and grace, gushing an ever-flowing fount. * Therefore we entreat, O Lady, that you rain down * on us drops of knowledge, so that we may ever praise you. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Since you are a temple and a palace far more exalted than * the heavens, O all-pure Maiden, in the Temple of God * as a gift to Him are you now dedicated * preparing for the divine dwelling of His presence. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

The Birthgiver of our God, the Maid who brought forth the light of grace, * has made us all very bright and has assembled us * that we might adorn her eminently splendid * holiday with sacred songs. Come join us for the feast. [SD]

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. An anthem of victory.

ᾨδὴν ἐπινίκιον.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Today let us run unto the Theotokos * and honor in canticles * and together celebrate * her sacred spiritual feast. * For in the Temple she is offered as a gift to God. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

The glorious coming out of God’s Birthgiver * with odes let us now extol. * For she is prophetically, * as a temple of God, * unto the Temple offered as a precious gift today. [SD]

Glory. For the Trinity.

O Trinity, one in essence, Father, Logos, * and all-holy Spirit, * we glorify you loyally * as being Maker of all, * and we cry out to You in piety: O God, save us. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Our King and our God came forth from you, O Lady, * and put on the purple robe * that was dyed in your own blood, * O all-immaculate Maid, * and in His mercy He refashioned all the human race. [SD]

Ode 1: Katavasia

Ode i. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Christ is born! Glorify Him! * Christ is come from heaven! Go and meet Him! * Christ is on earth! Arise to Him! * Sing to the Lord, all you inhabitants of earth, and all you peoples, praise Him, * and with merriment extol Him who is glorified! [GOASD]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode iii.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 4.

Τοὺς σοὺς ὑμνολόγους.

Establish your servants who extol you, * O Mother of God, for they have formed * a spiritual choir for you * the living and abundant fount; * and graciously in your divine Entry give glorious crowns to them. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

The Temple is now a hall for marriage * a chamber most fitting and most fair * receiving now the Virgin Pure * the living Bridal Chamber of God * the spotless and all blameless one * who shines more brightly than all the world. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

King David is leaping now in gladness, * he leads the dance, rejoicing with us all * he calls to you, “My fairest Queen * adorned in many-colored dress! * O all-pure Virgin undefiled * in the Temple before God the King!” [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

The ancient curse came from Eve descending * upon the human race; and yet from Eve * our restoration to that state * of incorruption flourishes now: * Today God’s Mother is brought forth * into the Temple, the house of God. [RB]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. Firmly established be my hear.

Στερεωθήτω ἡ καρδία μου.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Let us who love the feasts now celebrate; * let us all in spirit sing hymns of praise * as we exult and raise our song for the holy feast on this day * to the Daughter of our King and Lord; * the Mother of our one God. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Today, O Joachim, be overjoyed; * Anna, in your spirit be radiant, * for to the Lord you offer Mary, your daughter, but three years old, * as a pure victim for sacrifice, * all-holy and all-blameless. [RB]

Glory. For the Trinity.

We say the Father is Light, so the Son; * so also the Comforter, Light as well. * The holy Trinity shines forth as though from one most-dazzling Sun; * it divinely shines its light * upon our souls and it keeps them whole. [RB]

Both now. Theotokion.

The prophets spoke of you in ages past; * they called you the ark of great holiness, * they called you censer made of gold, and a table, and candlestick. * Virgin, Tabernacle holding God! * We offer you praise in song. [RB]

Ode 3: Katavasia

Ode iii. Katavasia. Mode 1.

To the Son, begotten from the Father unchangingly before the ages, * and now becoming incarnate from the Virgin without seed; * to Christ God let us cry aloud, * “You have exalted the horn of our strength. * Only You are holy, O Lord!” [GOASD]

Ode 3: Short Litany

PRIEST

Again and again in peace let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For You are our God, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

Mid-Ode Kathisma or Hypakoe

CHOIR

Kathisma.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.

Shout, O David, and declare: * What is this present feast? * Here is she, whom you extolled * in the inspired book of Psalms, * as a daughter and child of God and Virgin, * saying that virgins shall be brought * to the King mystically, * her neighbors shall be led * with joy and gladness to Him. * Now with your words add to the splendor of this feast day, * which is observed throughout the world by those who cry: * The Theotokos, who brought salvation, * has come to us in the Temple. [SD]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-1

From Menaion - - -

Ode iv.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Heirmos. Mode 4.

Τὴν ἀνεξιχνίαστον.

When the Prophet Habakkuk heard the divine * and incomprehensible counsel of Your Incarnation * from the Virgin, O Most High, * considering, he cried aloud: * Glory to Your strength, O Lord my God. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

On this day the Temple and House of our God * takes in the immaculate shining Gate * through which none may pass, * ending rites required of old * by the law’s shadow, and cries out: * Truly has the truth appeared to those on earth! [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

The overshadowed mountain that Habakkuk foresaw * and in times past proclaimed prophetically, * has come now to dwell * in the Temple’s holy place; * and there she blooms with virtues pure * and with her fair shadow veils all the earth. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Let us now together with the entire earth * behold these most wondrous occurrences, * these strange, marvelous events; * the Virgin eats from angels’ hands! * and is thus an image of God’s own grace. [RB]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1.

Ἐν Πνεύματι προβλέπων.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Isaiah of the prophets, now prophesy to us: * who is then the Virgin that conceives and bears a Son? * She is the one who comes forth from the root of Judah * born as she was from the great lineage of King David: * the most glorious fruit of a holy seed. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O virgins wise and waiting, begin to sing your hymns; * hold aloft your brilliant lamps to offer now your praise * of the pure Mother of God’s grand procession today; * she enters into the Lord’s own most holy Temple. * Celebrate with us this great holy feast! [RB]

Glory. For the Trinity.

In rev’rence we now glorify our true and triune God, * who is undivided with three persons, one nature; * the ranks of angels and archangels sing his praises * for he is Lord and Master over all Creation. * We adore and worship him forever. [RB]

Both now. Theotokion.

O pure and undefiled Virgin, pray unceasingly * and implore your Son and God whom you conceived in flesh * that he save us all, your servants who sing now this hymn, * from ev’ry snare of the adversary, the devil, * and from all temptations attacking us. [RB]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Ode iv. Katavasia. Mode 1.

A rod has come forth from Jesse’s root, * and You its flower grew from it, praiseworthy Christ, now born of the Virgin, * whom Habakkuk called Paran, shady, thickly wooded mountain. * From her who knew no man You came incarnate, O immaterial God. * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [GOASD]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode v.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 4.

Ἐξέστη τὰ σύμπαντα (Εἰσόδια).

Amazed was the universe, * O Maiden, by your most august * Entry. For, O never-wedded Virgin, * you who appeared as a most pure temple yourself * did enter the Temple of God, * now awarding peace to all who extol you with hymns of praise. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Today the pure Virgin, the bright shining holy place of God * and the glorious offering is brought forth * and dedicated here in the temple of God, * and in ways which he alone can know * she becomes the the dwelling place * for our God, the true King of all. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Beholding the beauty of your soul, O Virgin, all-immaculate, * Zachariah cried aloud with great faith: * you are Deliv’rance, you are the joy of us all! * You are Restoration, and for me, * the incomprehensible through you is comprehensible! [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Your wonders are beyond what we can * understand, O Virgin pure! * Wonderful and strange is your birthgiving; * wondrous and strange is your maturation too, * awesome are all things concerning you, spotless and fair Bride of God, * and beyond mortal means to know. [RB]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1.

Τὸ φαεινὸν ἡμῖν ἑξανάτειλον.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Let us the faithful who believe rightly now form a most joyful choir, * let us gather with our lamps in hand glorifying God’s own Mother; * she comes now before the Lord, * a sacrifice most fitting. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Lady, let the forefathers rejoice exceedingly today, ⁄ and let her who bore you celebrate with your father: ⁄ for their fruit is led to the Lord. [OCA]

Glory. For the Trinity.

Let us now glorify and bow down, off’ring fitting praise with our hymns * to the Godhead in three persons, one in nature, same in glory; * being before existence was, * and shall unto ages be. [RB]

Both now. Theotokion.

We have your intercession and pray’r, O pure Mother of God our King, * as a haven fair and unassailable rampart in troubles, * and we are kept safe from harm, * from ev’ry affliction dread. [RB]

Ode 5: Katavasia

Ode v. Katavasia. Mode 1.

O God of peace and Father of mercies, * You have sent to us the Wonderful Counselor, * the Angel of Your great counsel, granting us peace. * And now to light of knowledge of God we have been guided, * and we rise from night to dawn and glorify You, O benevolent Lord. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode vi.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 4.

Τὴν θείαν ταύτην.

O godly-minded believers, come * and celebrate this sacred and venerable feast and thus extol * the Theotokos, and clap our hands, * and glorify our God who was truly born of her. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

With but a word God supports all things, * and in his mercy he has heard now the pray’r * his righteous children pray: * he has unbound them from barrenness * and giv’n to them our Lady, the cause of our great joy. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Wanting the nations to be assured * that they could have salvation, the Lord chose one * unwedded who belonged * to the poor race of humanity * to signify renewal, and reconcile us all. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

You are a dwelling for God’s good grace, * O undefiled Lady, a treasure house * that stores mercy divine, * and that is most inexpressible. * Now you share in the temple’s joy, boundless for all time. [RB]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1.

Τὸν Προφήτην Ἰωνᾶν.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Come, o faithful, let us keep the pure Virgin’s holy feast * spirits lifted high, and singing her praises faithfully, for she truly * is well and truly holier than heav’n’s ranks. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

With our voices, let us praise the pure Mother of the Light; * let us sing our odes and hymns for today to us she is made manifest * while ent’ring into the holy Temple of God. [RB]

Glory. For the Trinity.

Holy Father, Son, and Spirit of righteousness divine, * perfect Unity in three persons; Trinity and undivided still, * God, show your mercy to those who worship your pow’r. [RB]

Both now. Theotokion.

He whom nothing can contain was contained in your pure womb, * undefiled and spotless Mother of God, from whom he has come forth in flesh. * Your Son is dual in nature, both God and man. [RB]

Ode 6: Katavasia

Ode vi. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Jonah long ago * was hurled from the belly of the whale as he went in, like a newborn babe. * With the Virgin now, * when the Logos had dwelt in His Mother’s womb, * taking flesh, He then emerged, preserving her intact.* Yielding not to changeability, * He preserved her unaltered in childbirth. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Short Litany

PRIEST

Again and again in peace let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For You are the King of peace and the savior of our souls, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

Principal Kontakion and Synaxarion

From Menaion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode 4. You who were lifted.

Ὁ ὑψωθεὶς ἐν τῷ Σταυρῷ.

The Savior’s most pure and immaculate temple, the very precious bridal chamber and Virgin, who is the sacred treasure of the glory of God, on this day is introduced into the House of the Lord, and with herself she brings the grace in the divine Spirit. She is extolled by the Angels of God. A heavenly tabernacle is she. [SD]

Oikos.

Seeing the grace of God’s ineffable and divine mysteries evident and manifestly fulfilled in the Virgin, I rejoice; and I am at a loss to understand the ineffable and strange manner in which the immaculate Maid alone proved to be chosen above all creation visible and invisible. Therefore, wishing to extol her, I am greatly perplexed in mind and speech. Nevertheless I dare to do it, and I proclaim and magnify: A heavenly tabernacle is she. [SD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On November 21, we commemorate the Entry of the Mother of God into the Temple.

By the intercessions of the Theotokos, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-1

CHOIR

From Menaion - - -

Ode vii.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Heirmos. Mode 4.

Οὐκ ἐλάτρευσαν.

Godly-minded three * did not adore created things in the Creator’s stead; * rather, disdaining the threat * of fire, they trampled it, and joyfully they sang: * “O supremely praised * and most exalted Lord and God * of the fathers, You are blessed.” [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Behold spring’s exultant joy now lightens the universe and brings our souls and minds * a light most brilliant and pure * and grants to them an understanding through the grace of God, * for today we sing * our praises mystic’ly for her * who is God’s own spotless Mother. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Today let everything, ranks of Cherubim and Seraphim, the mortal hosts,* attend the Mother and Queen, * and let them raise their voices, singing loudly for the feast: * Joy ineffable, * humanity’s deliverance today enters the house of God! [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

The written Law has passed and vanished into nothing like a shade, * and rays of grace now shine forth * at your all-hymned entry into the house of God, * and O Virgin pure, * and Mother all-immaculate, * you are blessed today forever. [RB]

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1.

Ἡ κάμινος Σωτὴρ ἐδροσίζετο.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Exulting in the joy of the feast today, * we rightly honor Anna and Joachim, * singing our praise to the Virgin, the immaculate one. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Let David in the Spirit now prophesy that virgins, daughter, shall be brought after you; * they shall be brought to the temple * to the Mother and Queen. [RB]

Glory. For the Trinity.

Let us glorify the Trinity undivided, * praising the one Godhead with songs and hymns, * three persons -- Father, the Son, and Spirit: holy and one. [RB]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Mother of God, pray to the Lord you bore, * that he will save the souls who now sing your praise; * for the Lord God, your dear Son, is the compassionate one. [RB]

Ode 7: Katavasia

Ode vii. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Brought up together piously, the Servants * with contempt regarded the impious king’s decree. * The threat of the furnace did not frighten them. * Rather, standing in the midst of flames, they prayed and sang, * “Blessed are You, O Lord God of our fathers!” [GOASD]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode viii.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 4.

Ἄκουε Κόρη.

Hearken, O Damsel, let Gabriel say. * Incline your ear, O Virgin pure, * and hear the counsel of the Most High, ancient and true; * and make ready for your own reception of God. * For through you the Uncontainable associates with mortal men. * And I am therefore rejoicing and shouting: * O all you works of the Lord, * praise and bless the Lord. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Anna cries out on this day as she leads * the all-pure Temple to the house * of God, and she says most faithfully to the priest: * “This child giv’n to me by God receive from me, * lead her now into the Temple of the Maker of all things and sing * to him with joy and cry out with a loud voice: * O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord your God!” [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

When he saw Anna with Spirit well-filled, * priest Zachariah said to her: * “You bring to us the true Mother of Life, the one * whom prophets of God have called the Mother of God. * And how shall the Temple hold her in its walls? I am now stricken with awe. I sing with wonder and shout with a loud voice: * O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord your God!” [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Anna replied to him with a clear voice: * “I stand, beseeching the true God; * I call on him with my faith and my fervent pray’r * to take now the fruit of my travail joyfully. * I vowed after birth I would give her to him who gave her to me. * So therefore, joyfully leaping, I cry out: * O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord your God!” [RB]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1.

Ὃν φρίττουσιν Ἄγγελοι.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Today Joachim is bright with joy and celebrates, * and without reproval Anna offers to the Lord * the sacrifice giv’n her * as the angel foretold and as Anna promised: her holy, all-pure daughter. [RB]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Saints David and Jesse now most joyfully exult * and Judah is filled to overflowing with good pride. * For from their root a branch * has sprung forth: the pure Virgin from whom our God, pre-eternal, is to be born. [RB]

Glory. For the Trinity.

Now let the Thrice Holy Hymn be offered now in song * to the Father, the Son, and the all-Holy Spirit: God. * Indivisible Godhead and unbreakable Unity holding all that he made in his hand always. [RB]

Both now. Theotokion.

The one who has no beginning now begins to be: * the Word takes on flesh and is born from a Virgin Maid, * divine also human, * and as one all-compassionate he refashions his fallen sinful children. [RB]

Ode 8: Katavasia

Ode viii. Katavasia. Mode 1.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Babylon’s bedewing furnace bore the image of an extraordinary wonder. * For it did not burn the youths it was holding, * nor did the fire of Divinity consume the Virgin’s womb wherein it went. * And so let us songfully extol and praise, * “Let all creation bless the Lord, sing a hymn to Him, * and exalt Him beyond measure unto all the ages.” [GOASD]

Kontakia and Synaxarion

From Menaion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode 4. You who were lifted.

Ὁ ὑψωθεὶς ἐν τῷ Σταυρῷ.

Oikos.

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On November 21, we commemorate the Entry of the Mother of God into the Temple.

By the intercessions of the Theotokos, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Katavasias Odes 1-8

CHOIR

Katavasias of Christmas I

Ode i. Mode 1.

Ode iii.

Ode iv.

Ode v.

Ode vi.

Ode vii.

Ode viii.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Stand for the singing of Ode ix.

DEACON

Let us honor and magnify in song the Theotokos and the Mother of the light.

CHOIR

Ode 9: Menaion: Canon-1

From Menaion - - -

Ode ix.

Canon 1.

Mode 4. Heirmos.

Ὡς ἐμψύχῳ Θεοῦ κιβωτῷ.

When they saw the Entry of the Virgin Maiden, the Angels were astonished, at how she entered with glory into the Holy of Holies.

Now let no uninitiated hand * approach the living Ark of God to touch it. * Rather let believers’ lips sing out in exultation * the Angel’s salutation unceasingly * to the Theotokos and cry out: * You, O pure and virgin Maiden, are truly superior to all. [SD]

Troparia.

When they saw the Entry of the all-pure one the Angels were astonished at how she entered with glory into the Holy of Holies.

O pure Mother of God, since you have * the beauty of your soul clear and resplendent, * and since you are full of the Grace of God from heaven, * you ever illumine with eternal light * those who cry aloud with a glad heart: * You, O pure and virgin Maiden, are truly superior to all. [SD]

When they saw the Entry of the all-pure one the Angels were astonished how paradoxically she entered into the Holy of Holies.

Soaring higher than the power of speech * is your miracle, O pure Theotokos. * For beyond all reason I perceive in you a body * that in no way admitted the flow of sin. * Therefore with thanksgiving I cry out: * You, O pure and virgin Maiden, are truly superior to all. [SD]

Angels and people, let us all honor the Entry of the virgin Maid, how she entered in glory into the Holy of Holies.

Paradoxally the Law prefigured you, * O pure one, as a jar and tabernacle, * spiritual ark and rod of Aaron and the curtain, * indestructible Temple and the gate of God. * Thus it teaches us all to cry out: * You, O pure and virgin Maiden, are truly superior to all. [SD]

Ode 9: Menaion: Canon-2

From Menaion - - -

Canon 2.

Mode 1. The cloud that radiates.

Τὴν φωτοφόρον νεφέλην.

O my soul, magnify the Maiden who was offered in the Temple of the Lord and was blessed by the priests’ hands.

Mary who bore a divine Son * was born herself to the holy * and righteous Joachim and Anne * as the fruit of a promise. * Now as an infant in the flesh * they offer her as incense acceptable * for to dwell in the holies * of the holy Temple as a holy Maid. [SD]

O my soul, magnify the Maiden who was offered in the Temple of the Lord and was blessed by the priests’ hands.

She is by nature an infant * who in a way passing nature * will be the Mother of her God. * Let us therefore extol her. * For she is offered to the Lord * in the Temple according to the Law today, * for a sweet-smelling savor, * as the spiritual fruit of the righteous pair. [SD]

Glory. For the Trinity.

O my soul, magnify the power of the Godhead that is three hypostases and also undivided.

Let us give honor and glory * to Father Son and the Spirit, * nature in three hypostases * and undivided glory, * which is unceasingly extolled * on earth and in heaven, the inseparable * holy Trinity, and is * in a single Godhead piously adored. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O my soul, magnify the woman who is higher in honor and in glory than the armies of heaven.

For us who faithfully hasten * to your compassion for refuge, * O Virgin Mother of our God, * and who piously worship * your Son as God of all the world * and Master, entreat Him now most fervently * that He save us from injury and dangers * and temptations of all kinds. [SD]

Ode 9: Katavasia

Ode ix. Katavasia. Mode 1.

O my soul, magnify the woman who is higher in honor and in glory than the armies of heaven.

I see here a new and paradoxical mystery. * For the cave resembles heaven, * the Virgin, the cherubic throne, * the manger, a grand space, * in which He whom nothing can contain was laid, Christ our God; * whom we extol in song and magnify. [GOASD]

PRIEST

Again and again in peace let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For all the powers of heaven praise You, and to You they offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

Exaposteilarion.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. O Women, hearken.

Γυναῖκες ἀκουτίσθητε.

Let us with faith extol in song * the Virgin Mary, child of God, * of whom the assembly of Prophets * prophesied and of old declared * to be the tablet and the rod, * the mountain that was quarried not. * For she is introduced today * into the Holy of Holies, * to be fostered by the Master. (3) [SD]

Lauds. Mode 1.

Let everything that breathes praise the Lord. Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise Him in the highest. It is fitting to sing a hymn to You, O God. [SAAS]

Praise Him, all you His angels; praise Him, all you His hosts. It is fitting to sing a hymn to You, O God. [SAAS]

Praise Him, sun and moon; praise Him, all you stars and light.

Praise Him, you heavens of heavens, and you waters above the heavens. Let them praise the Lord’s name.

For He spoke, and they were made; He commanded, and they were created.

He established them forever and unto ages of ages; He set forth His ordinance, and it shall not pass away.

Praise the Lord from the earth, you dragons and all the deeps.

Fire and hail, snow and ice, stormy wind, which perform His word.

Mountains and all the hills, fruitful trees and all cedars.

Wild animals and all cattle, creeping things and flying birds.

Kings of the earth and all peoples, princes and all judges of the earth.

Young men and maidens, elders with younger, let them praise the Lord’s name, for His name alone is exalted.

His thanksgiving is in earth and heaven. And He shall exalt the horn of His people.

A hymn for all His saints, for the children of Israel, a people who draw near to Him.

Sing to the Lord a new song, His praise in the assembly of His holy ones.

Let Israel be glad in Him who made him, and let the children of Zion greatly rejoice in their King.

Let them praise His name with dance; with tambourine and harp let them sing to Him.

For the Lord is pleased with His people, and He shall exalt the gentle with salvation.

The holy ones shall boast in glory, and they shall greatly rejoice on their beds.

The high praise of God shall be in their mouth and a two-edged sword in their hand.

To deal retribution to the nations, reproving among the peoples.

To shackle their kings with chains and their nobles with fetters of iron.

To fulfill among them the written judgment: this glory have all His holy ones.

Praise God in His saints; praise Him in the firmament of His power.

Stichera for the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. For all the powers of heaven.

Τῶν οὐρανίων ταγμάτων.

Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to the abundance of His greatness. [SAAS]

The virgins carrying lanterns are brightly paving the way * for ever-virgin Mary; * and truly in the Spirit * they prophesy the future; for she is led * to the Temple from infancy, * going with virginal glory. She is indeed * Theotokos and the temple of God. [SD]

Praise Him with the sound of trumpet; praise Him with the harp and lyre. [SAAS]

The Theotokos was shown forth unto the world in truth * to be the noble offspring of a most holy promise, * superior to all things. As she is led * reverently into the house of God, * the pious prayer of her parents she now fulfills; * and by the Holy Spirit she is preserved. [SD]

Praise Him with timbrel and dance; praise Him with strings and flute. [SAAS]

Having been nourished, O Virgin, in faith on heavenly bread * within the Master’s Temple, * for the world you have brought forth * the bread of life, the Logos. And as His own * chosen temple immaculate, * in the Spirit you were mystically betrothed * to God the Father and became His Bride. [SD]

Praise Him with resounding cymbals; praise Him with triumphant cymbals; let everything that breathes praise the Lord. [SAAS]

Open the gate of the Temple that has received our God. * For Joachim has taken * from his own home in glory * the temple and the throne of the King of all, * and returns her and consecrates * unto the Master the daughter that he begot, * who was chosen as the Mother of God. [SD]

Glory. Both now.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2.

Today the all-blameless Virgin is led to the Temple, to become the abode of God the King of all and Nourisher of our whole life. Today the most pure sanctuary is introduced into the Holy of Holies as a heifer three years old. Let us cry out to her as once did the Angel: Rejoice, only blessed among women. [SD]

Stand for the Great Doxology.

Great Doxology

Glory be to You who showed the light. Glory in the highest to God. His peace is on earth, His good pleasure in mankind. [SD]

We praise You, we bless You, we worship You, we glorify You, we give thanks to You for Your great glory.

Lord King, heavenly God, Father, Ruler over all; Lord, only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ; and You, O Holy Spirit.

Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, who take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us, You who take away the sins of the world.

Accept our supplication, You who sit at the right hand of the Father, and have mercy on us.

For You alone are holy, You alone are Lord, Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Every day I will bless You, and Your name will I praise to eternity, and to the ages of ages.

Vouchsafe, O Lord, this day, that we be kept without sin.

Blessed are You, O Lord, the God of our fathers, and praised and glorified is Your name to the ages. Amen.

Let Your mercy be on us, O Lord, as we have set our hope on You.

Blessed are You, O Lord. Teach me Your statutes.

Lord, You have been our refuge from generation to generation. I said: Lord, have mercy on me. Heal my soul, for I have sinned against You.

Lord, I have fled to You. Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God.

For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we shall see light.

Continue Your mercy to those who know You.

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

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

Both now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Apolytikion.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4.

Litanies, End, no Dismissal

LITANY OF FERVENT SUPPLICATION

DEACON

Have mercy on us, O God, according to Your great mercy, we pray You, hear us and have mercy.

CHOIR (after each petition)

Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Again we pray for pious and Orthodox Christians.

Again we pray for our Archbishop (name).

Again we pray for our brethren: the priests, the hieromonks, the deacons, the monastics, and all our brotherhood in Christ.

Again we pray for mercy, life, peace, health, salvation, protection, forgiveness, and remission of the sins of the servants of God, all pious Orthodox Christians residing and visiting in this city: the parishioners, the members of the parish council, the stewards, and benefactors of this holy church.

Again we pray for the blessed and ever-memorable founders of this holy church, and for all our fathers and brethren who have fallen asleep before us, who here have been piously laid to their rest, as well as the Orthodox everywhere.

Again we pray for those who bear fruit and do good works in this holy and all-venerable church, for those who labor and those who sing, and for the people here present who await Your great and rich mercy.

PRIEST

For You are merciful and benevolent God, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

LITANY OF COMPLETION

DEACON

Let us complete our morning prayer to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

That the whole day may be perfect, holy, peaceful, and sinless, let us ask the Lord.

CHOIR (after each petition)

Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

For an angel of peace, a faithful guide, a guardian of our souls and bodies, let us ask the Lord.

For pardon and remission of our sins and transgressions, let us ask the Lord.

For that which is good and beneficial for our souls, and for peace for the world, let us ask the Lord.

That we may complete the remaining time of our life in peace and repentance, let us ask the Lord.

And let us ask for a Christian end to our life, peaceful, without shame and suffering, and for a good defense before the awesome judgment seat of Christ.

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For You are the God of mercy and compassion and love for humankind, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

PRIEST: Peace be with all.

CHOIR: And with your spirit.

DEACON

Let us bow our heads to the Lord.

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST (in a low voice)

Holy Lord, who dwell in the highest and look upon the humble and observe all creation with Your all-seeing eye, to You we bow the neck of soul and body, and we pray You, Holy of holies: Extend Your invisible hand from Your holy heavens and bless us all. And as good and benevolent God, forgive us any misdeeds we committed voluntarily or involuntarily, and grant us Your blessings in this world and in the next.

PRIEST (aloud)

For Yours it is to show mercy and to save us, O our God, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

PRIEST: Wisdom.

READER: Father, bless!

PRIEST

Blessed is Christ our God, the One who is, always, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

HIERARCH or READER

The Lord God make firm the holy and pure faith of the pious Orthodox Christians, together with the Holy and Great Church of Christ, our Sacred Archdiocese, [this Sacred Metropolis,] and this city, to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

Greater in honor than the Cherubim, and in glory greater beyond compare than the Seraphim; you without corruption gave birth to God the Word, and are truly Theotokos. You do we magnify.

Litanies and Dismissal

LITANY OF FERVENT SUPPLICATION

DEACON

Have mercy on us, O God, according to Your great mercy, we pray You, hear us and have mercy.

CHOIR (after each petition)

Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Again we pray for pious and Orthodox Christians.

Again we pray for our Archbishop (name).

Again we pray for our brethren: the priests, the hieromonks, the deacons, the monastics, and all our brotherhood in Christ.

PRIEST

For You are merciful and benevolent God, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

LITANY OF COMPLETION

DEACON

Let us complete our morning prayer to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

That the whole day may be perfect, holy, peaceful, and sinless, let us ask the Lord.

CHOIR (after each petition)

Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

For an angel of peace, a faithful guide, a guardian of our souls and bodies, let us ask the Lord.

For pardon and remission of our sins and transgressions, let us ask the Lord.

For that which is good and beneficial for our souls, and for peace for the world, let us ask the Lord.

That we may complete the remaining time of our life in peace and repentance, let us ask the Lord.

And let us ask for a Christian end to our life, peaceful, without shame and suffering, and for a good defense before the awesome judgment seat of Christ.

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For You are the God of mercy and compassion and love for humankind, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

PRIEST: Peace be with all.

CHOIR: And with your spirit.

DEACON

Let us bow our heads to the Lord.

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST (in a low voice)

PRIEST (aloud)

For Yours it is to show mercy and to save us, O our God, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

PRIEST

Wisdom.

( Father, bless! )

Blessed is Christ our God, the One who is, always, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

HIERARCH or READER

CHOIR: Amen.

Greater in honor than the Cherubim, and in glory greater beyond compare than the Seraphim; you without corruption gave birth to God the Word, and are truly Theotokos. You do we magnify.

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Both now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. (3) Father, bless!

Dismissal

PRIEST

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

May Christ our true God, through the intercessions of His all-pure and all-immaculate holy Mother, whose Entry into the Temple we celebrate, the power of the precious and life-giving Cross, the protection of the honorable, bodiless powers of heaven, the supplications of the honorable, glorious prophet and forerunner John the Baptist, of the holy, glorious, and praiseworthy apostles, of the holy, glorious, and triumphant martyrs, of our righteous and God-bearing fathers, (local patron saint); of the holy and righteous ancestors of God Joachim and Anna, and of all the saints, have mercy on us and save us, as He is good, benevolent, and merciful God.

Conclusion, i.e. “Through the prayers…”

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us.

CHOIR: Amen.