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Octoechos - Mode 4.

On Sunday Morning

Triodion

Sunday of Orthodoxy - On Sunday Morning

Menaion - March 9

Memory of the Holy Forty Martyrs of Sebastia

__________

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.

From Octoechos - - -

Resurrectional Apolytikion.

Mode 4.

When the women disciples of the Lord heard the Angel joyously proclaim the resurrection, they cast aside the ancestral verdict, and boasting in glory they said to the Apostles, “Death has been despoiled! Christ God has risen, granting the great mercy to the world!” [GOASD]

Glory. For the Saints.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1.

The holy martyrs suffered painful tortures for Your sake, O Lord; be compelled by what they endured, and heal our every pain, we entreat You, O only benevolent God. [SD]

Both now. For the Feast.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 2.

We venerate Your immaculate icon, O good Lord, and entreat You to forgive our offenses, O Christ our God. By Your own choice you were pleased to ascend the Cross in the flesh, to deliver us, whom You created, from our slavery to the foe. Therefore we cry to You with gratitude: You have filled all things with joy, O our Savior, by coming to save the world. [SD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 2. Then the 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

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 Octoechos - - -

Mode 4.

Looking up at the entrance to the sepulcher, then unable to endure the Angel’s radiance, the Myrrh-bearing Women were frightened; and perplexed they said, “Has He been stolen, who opened Paradise to the Robber? Has He arisen, who before His Passion announced His rising?” Indeed, Christ God has truly risen, granting life and resurrection to those in the netherworld. [GOASD]

Glory.

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.

By Your voluntary will, O Savior, You endured the Cross, * In a new tomb mortal men buried Your body, O Lord, * who by a word had created the universe. * Death, the ancient foe, was restrained by You * and forcefully deprived of the spoils it had. * And all the souls in Hades sang and glorified * Your resurrection, which gave them life, * “Christ the Giver of Life has risen! * And He abides forever!” [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Theotokos, revealed through you to us on earth was the mystery, that was hidden for ages and unknown by the angels. God became incarnate, uniting natures without confusion, and for us He voluntarily accepted crucifixion, through which He resurrected the first-formed man, and He saved our souls from death. [GOASD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 3. Then the 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 good 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.

CHOIR

Kathisma II.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Ταχὺ προκατάλαβε.

You rose, as immortal Savior, from the netherworld, * and with yourself You also raised Your world by Your resurrection, O Christ our God. * Mightily You shattered the power of death, O Master. * Merciful Lord, You showed to all the resurrection. * Therefore we glorify You, only benevolent God. [GOASD]

Glory.

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.

From exalted heights above Gabriel came down to earth; * and he sat upon the rock wherein the Rock of life had lain. * Arrayed in white, he cried out to the weeping women, * “Women, even though you are emotional, * You no longer need to lament and mourn. * No more weeping, for the One you are seeking * has truly risen, so be of good cheer. * And go and tell it to His Apostles, * that the Lord has truly risen.” [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.

O pure Virgin, all the hosts of holy angels were amazed * at the awesome mystery of your pregnancy and birth, * how He whose simple command holds all things together * is held in your embrace as a mortal babe, * the pre-eternal Word accepts an origin; * and He is nursed who nourishes the whole world * in His ineffable kindness. * And they extol you and glorify you * who are truly Theotokos. [GOASD]

The Polyeleos.

Psalm 134 (135).

Psalm 135 (136).

Selected Psalm Verses

Selected Psalm Verses for Martyrs

And power. Alleluia.

1. God is our refuge and power; a help in afflictions that severely befall us. Alleluia. (45:2) [SAAS]

2. Therefore we will not fear when the earth is troubled, and when the mountains are removed into the hearts of the seas. Alleluia. (45:3) [SAAS]

3. O God, who can be likened to You? Be not silent nor appeased, O God. Alleluia. (82:2) [SAAS]

4. For behold, Your enemies made a noise, and those who hate You raised up their heads. Alleluia. (82:3) [SAAS]

5. They devised a wicked judgment against Your people, and they plotted against Your saints. Alleluia. (82:4) [SAAS]

6. They said, “Come, and let us destroy them from among the people.” Alleluia. (82:5) [SAAS]

7. They left the dead bodies of Your servants as food for the birds of heaven. Alleluia. (78:2) [SAAS]

8. The flesh of Your saints for the wild animals of the earth. Alleluia. (78:2) [SAAS]

9. Their blood flowed like water. Alleluia. (78:3) [SAAS]

10. For Your sake we are put to death all day long, we are counted as sheep for the slaughter. Alleluia. (43:23) [SAAS]

11. You brought us into the snare; You laid affliction on our back. Alleluia. (65:11) [SAAS]

12. We went through fire and water, and You led us into a refreshing place. Alleluia. (65:12) [SAAS]

13. Those who afflict me revile me when they break my bones. Alleluia. (41:11) [SAAS]

14. All day long I was scourged. Alleluia. (72:14) [SAAS]

15. And they added to the pain of my wounds. Alleluia. (68:27) [SAAS]

16. The righteous cried, and the Lord heard them; and He delivered them from all their afflictions. Alleluia. (33:18) [SAAS]

17. To the saints on His earth, in them He magnified all His will. Alleluia. (15:3) [SAAS]

18. God is wondrous in His saints. Alleluia. (67:36) [SAAS]

19. Light dawned for the righteous and gladness for the upright in heart. Alleluia. (96:11) [SAAS]

20. A righteous man shall be in everlasting remembrance. Alleluia. (111:6) [SAAS]

21. The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree; he shall be multiplied like the cedar in Lebanon. Alleluia. (91:13) [SAAS]

22. Be glad in the Lord and rejoice greatly, O righteous ones, and boast, all you upright in heart. Alleluia. (31:11) [SAAS]

Glory. For the Trinity.

Mode 1.

Let us bow in worship and adore * the Father; likewise let us glorify * the Son; and also let us praise * the all-holy Spirit faithfully, * crying out in unison, * “Save us all, we implore, all-holy Trinity.” [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 1.

We Your people now invoke the name * of Your holy Mother entreating for us. * O Good One, at her fervent prayers, * send Your mercies to us, Christ, as we sing * glorifying You who rose * from the sepulcher, like a sun for us. [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

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For hallowed and glorified is Your all-honored and majestic name, of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

CHOIR

Kathisma III.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 1. As the Father and Spirit.

Τὸν συνάναρχον Λόγον.

Let the favorite ornament of the martyred saints, * this divinely recruited, divinely crowned platoon * of the Forty Martyrs now be extolled with hymns. * Truly wise, these men were tested by icy cold and fire, * and they were shown to be soldiers * of Christ the almighty Ruler. * And they intercede that we be saved. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 1. As the Father and Spirit.

I implore you to show forth your promptness to provide * your protection and help and your mercy unto me, * O pure Maid, and calm the waves of unruly thoughts, * and resurrect the fallen soul of me your servant, I entreat, * O all-holy Theotokos. * I know, I know, O Virgin, * that you can do whatever you wish. [SD]

Resurrectional Evlogetaria.

Mode pl. 1.

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

When the hosts of the Angels saw how You were accounted among the dead, they all marveled. You, O Savior, are the One who destroyed the might of death; and when You arose You raised Adam with yourself and from Hades liberated everyone. [SD]

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

“Why do you mingle the ointments with your tears full of pity, O women disciples?” Thus the Angel who was shining in the tomb cried to the myrrh-bearing women. “See for yourselves the empty tomb and understand, that the Savior has risen from the sepulcher.”

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

Very early in the morning, the myrrh-bearing women were hastening to Your tomb lamenting. But the Angel appeared to them and uttered, “The time for lamentation has ended; weep no more. Go announce the Resurrection to the Apostles.”

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

When the myrrh-bearing women had come with their spices to Your sepulcher, O Savior, they heard the voice of an Angel clearly speaking to them, “Why do you account among the dead the One who lives? For as God, He has risen from the sepulcher.”

Glory.

We bow down in worship to the Father and His Son and the Holy Spirit, the Holy Trinity, one in essence; and we cry aloud with the Seraphim: Holy, Holy, Holy are You, O Lord.

Both now.

Giving birth to the Giver of life, O Virgin, you delivered Adam from sin, and to Eve you have rendered joy in place of sorrow. He who from you became incarnate, God and man, has directed to life him who fell from it.

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia. Glory to You, O God. (3)

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.

READER

From Octoechos - - -

Hypakoe. Mode 4.

The Myrrh-bearing Women hurried to declare the matter of Your paradoxal rising to Your Apostles, O Christ, that You rose, as God, and granted to the world the great mercy. [GOASD]

From Octoechos - - -

Anavathmoi.

Antiphon 1. Mode 4.

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

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

Glory. Both now.

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

Antiphon 2.

I have cried to You, O Lord, from the depth of my soul with fervor. Let Your divine ears be attentive to me. [GOASD]

Everyone who has their hope in the Lord is higher than anything that could sadden them. [GOASD]

Glory. Both now.

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

Antiphon 3.

Let my heart be lifted up to You, O Logos; and none of the world’s delights will entice me to be earthly-minded. [GOASD]

Whereas one has filial affection for his mother, for the Lord we ought to have a love even more fervent. [GOASD]

Glory. Both now.

In the Holy Spirit is the wealth of knowledge of God, contemplation and wisdom. For in Him the Logos discloses all the dogmas of the Father. [GOASD]

Prokeimenon.

Arise, O Lord; help us, and redeem us, because of the glory of Your name. (2)

Verse: O God, we heard with our ears.

Arise, O Lord; help us, and redeem us, because of the glory of Your name. [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 altar table)

Eothinon 4

Luke. 24:1 – 12

On the first day of the week at early dawn, the women went to the tomb, taking spices which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel; and as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and on the third day rise.” And they remembered his words and returning from the tomb they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told this to the Apostles; but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home wondering at what had happened. [RSV]

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

READER

Having beheld the Resurrection of Christ, let us worship the holy Lord Jesus, the only sinless one. Your Cross, O Christ, we venerate, and Your holy Resurrection we praise and glorify. For You are our God; apart from You we know no other; we call upon Your name. Come, all faithful, let us venerate the holy Resurrection of Christ; for behold, through the Cross, joy has come to the whole world. Ever blessing the Lord, let us praise His Resurrection; for having endured the Cross for us, He destroyed death by death. [GOA]

CHOIR

Psalm 50 (51).

Mode 2. (or the Mode of the week)

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. And have mercy on me, O God. [SAAS]

Idiomela from the Triodion.

Glory. Mode pl. 4.

Open to me the gates of repentance, O Giver of Life, for early in the morning my spirit hastens to Your holy temple, bringing the temple of my body all defiled. But as one compassionate, cleanse me, I pray, by Your loving-kindness and mercy. [SD]

Both now. Same Mode.

Guide me in the paths of salvation, O Theotokos, for I have befouled my soul with shameful sins and I heedlessly squandered all of my life’s resources. By your intercession deliver me from every uncleanness. [SD]

Idiomelon. Mode pl. 2.

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

When I ponder in my wretchedness on the many terrible things that I have done, I tremble for that fearful day, the Day of Judgment. But trusting in the mercy of Your compassion, like David I cry to You, “Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your 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, 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.

The Canon

From Octoechos - - -

CHOIR

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode i. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Θαλάσσης τὸ ἐρυθραῖον.

The Red Sea was crossed by ancient Israel. They walked across dry ground, * when Moses stretched his hand over the sea * with his rod, in the form of a cross; * and likewise in the wilderness, they put to flight the hosts of Amalek. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

O Master, You remedied our ancient fall, * when You were lifted up; * You cured our utter ruin at the tree * by the pure and immaculate tree * of Your all-holy Cross, O Lord, * who are almighty and benevolent. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

In body You were inside the tomb; as God You were in hell with Your soul * and with the Robber in Paradise. * You were also on the throne, O Christ, * with the Father and the Spirit, * filling all things as One uncircumscribed. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The Father so willed, and by the Holy Spirit without seed you conceived * the Son of God and bore Him in the flesh, * whom the Father begot without * a mother, and whom you brought forth * without a father, for the sake of all. [SD]

Canon from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (The Red Sea was crossed.)

Θαλάσσης τὸ ἐρυθραῖον.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Let us and all the faithful cry aloud and leap with joy today: ⁄ How marvelous are Your works, O Christ! ⁄ How great is Your might! ⁄ For You have made us of one mind ⁄ and brought about our agreement! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

People of God, come and let us celebrate a day of joy: ⁄ Now heaven makes glad! ⁄ Earth with all the hosts of angels ⁄ and the companies of mortal men, ⁄ each in their varied orders, keep the feast. [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Seeing the great blessing we have received: ⁄ how the divided members of Christ have been brought to unity, ⁄ let us clap our hands for joy ⁄ and praise God who has granted us peace! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The swords of impious heresies have failed: ⁄ for in deep reverence, pure and holy Virgin, ⁄ we now behold your temple, ⁄ made beautiful with icons, ⁄ and we rejoice with holy joy! [OCA]

Canon for the Martyrs.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (Peoples, now come.)

Δεῦτε λαοί.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

I praise the divinely-crowned regiment of the martyrs of Christ ⁄ with hymns inspired by God, ⁄ radiantly celebrating the annual commemoration of the forty, ⁄ for He has been glorified! [OCA]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The forty desired the title of Christian ⁄ and rejected every title on earth. ⁄ Therefore, now they dwell in the highest! [OCA]

Glory.

You lived in Christ and despised the world and the flesh. ⁄ You put off the old man and this temporal garment, ⁄ clothing yourselves in the garment of incorruption. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

Who is able fittingly to describe your ineffable conceiving? ⁄ You gave birth in the flesh, all pure one, ⁄ to God, the Savior of us all, ⁄ who has revealed Himself to us! [OCA]

Ode 1: Katavasia

Ode i. Katavasia. Mode 4.

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode iii. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Εὐφραίνεται ἐπὶ σοί.

Your Church rejoices in You, O Christ our God, and she cries out to You, * “You are my mighty strength, O Lord, * and You are my refuge and firm support.” [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

The Savior, whom we perceive * to be the tree of life, the true Vine himself, * was on the Cross crucified, * to all pouring out immortality. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

As God who is incorrupt, * the Lord has risen from the tomb bodily. * He humbled hell’s haughtiness, * for He is our great and terrific God. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Through you only we on earth * procure divine and supernatural gifts, * all-holy Mother of God. * Therefore we salute you and sing, “Rejoice!” [SD]

Canon from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (Your Church rejoices.)

Εὐφραίνεται ἐπὶ σοί.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The impious heretics ⁄ are no longer exalted in their pride, ⁄ for the power of God has firmly established Orthodoxy! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Today let the prophets ⁄ at the restoration of the Faith, ⁄ drop on us life-giving dew from heaven! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Let the mystical trumpets of Christ’s apostles ⁄ sound in God-given harmony, ⁄ proclaiming the re-establishment of the precious icons. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

We pray you, most pure Lady, ⁄ shine now with the light of grace upon the faithful ⁄ who have gathered in your holy house. [OCA]

Canon for the Martyrs.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (Establish us in You.)

Στερέωσον ἡμᾶς ἐν σοὶ Κύριε.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

They despised life and the army, ⁄ the beauty of their bodies and their wealth. ⁄ The truly glorious forty martyrs inherited Christ in place of all these! [OCA]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

When the forty martyrs were beaten by stones without mercy, ⁄ through the Spirit of God they turned back on their tormentors! [OCA]

Glory.

The serpent of the one who invented blasphemy ⁄ spoke through the lips of the tormentors, ⁄ but his mouth, opposed to God, ⁄ was broken by the rocks hurled against the martyrs! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

You conceived God in your womb without seed, ⁄ giving birth to Him who was ineffably incarnate. ⁄ Even the hosts of Heaven dare not look on Him, pure Ever-Virgin! [OCA]

Ode 3: Katavasia

Ode iii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

Your Church rejoices in You, O Christ our God, and she cries out to You, * “You are my mighty strength, O Lord, * and You are my refuge and firm support.” [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.

READER

From Octoechos - - -

Resurrectional Kontakion.

He who saved and rescued me has resurrected from the tomb and bonds of death those born on earth, for He is God. He smashed the gates of the netherworld, and on the third day, He rose, as the Lord of all. [GOASD]

Oikos.

Christ is the Giver of Life. He rose from the dead and the tomb, on the third day. He smashed the gates of death with His might today. He neutralized Hades and crushed the sting of death. And He freed Adam and Eve. Let all of us born on earth earnestly sing and praise Him with gratitude; for He is our one and mighty God, and on the third day He rose, as the Lord of all. [GOASD]

CHOIR

Kathisma.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 1. N/M (In heaven.)

Χορὸς ἀγγελικός.

Depicting your divine form in icons, O Christ, ⁄ we openly proclaim your nativity, ⁄ your ineffable miracles, and your voluntary crucifixion! ⁄ So the devils are driven out in fear, ⁄ and the heretics, their fellow-workers, ⁄⁄ lament in shame and sorrow! [OCA]

Glory. For the Saints.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. N/M (By conceiving the wisdom.)

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

Having served Christ as warriors in martyrdom ⁄ and casting down the enemy through your suffering, ⁄ by your deeds you fulfilled the words of the prophet: ⁄ You courageously went through fire and water, ⁄ finding refreshment and life incorruptible! ⁄ Therefore you are adorned with heavenly crowns ⁄ and rejoice with the bodiless choirs, blessed and all-praised passion-bearers. ⁄ Entreat Christ God that He may grant remission of sins ⁄⁄ to those who honor your holy memory with love! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

I have fallen into the subtle snares set for me ⁄ by enemies, visible and invisible. ⁄ I am caught in the tempest of my countless offenses. ⁄ I flee to the harbor of your goodness, ⁄ for you are my fervent help and protection, pure one. ⁄ Therefore, all-pure one, earnestly pray on behalf of your servants ⁄ to Him Who was incarnate of you without seed. ⁄ All-pure Theotokos, ever entreat Him to grant remission of sins ⁄⁄ to those who fittingly sing hymns to your glory! [OCA]

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode iv. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Ἐπαρθέντα σε ἰδοῦσα.

When the Church beheld You raised on the Cross unjustly, * O Christ, the Sun of Righteousness, crucified for our sake, * she stood in her course, like the moon, * and fittingly cried aloud, * “Glory to Your strength, O Lord!” [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

You were crucified, O Savior, to cure my passions * by what You suffered in Your all-immaculate body, * which You voluntarily put on. So we sing to You: * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Almighty Master, when death had tasted Your sinless * and life-giving body, it was fittingly embittered * and utterly put to death. And we now sing out to You: * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Remaining virgin, you conceived in your womb, O Virgin, * and even after childbirth, you remained a virgin. * Therefore with unwavering faith, O Lady, unceasingly * singing, we salute you: Rejoice! [SD]

Canon from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (When the Church.)

Ἐπαρθέντα σε ἰδοῦσα.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Sanctify Your temple, most merciful Word of God ⁄ through the divine descent of the Comforter, ⁄ and by His coming banish the error of heresy! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Deliver Your people from the violence of impiety, ⁄ kindling them with zeal for Orthodoxy ⁄ as they cry out to You in faith: ⁄ Glory to Your power, O Lord! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

We rejoice with holy joy, ⁄ seeing the churches of God bright with the sacred icons ⁄ of Christ and the Theotokos. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

You were sanctified as the holy temple of God, ⁄ full of grace who bore God the incarnate Word: ⁄ therefore we consecrate your shrine, newly adorned with glory. [OCA]

Canon for the Martyrs.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (I have heard.)

Εἰσακήκοα Κύριε, τὴν ἀκοήν.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The sufferers said to the tormentors: ⁄ Most sinful ones, you vainly offer a bad bargain! [OCA]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The tormentors offered the saints of Christ ⁄ sharpened swords, wild beasts, the Cross and fire! [OCA]

Glory.

The fire of Gehenna is frightful to us, ⁄ but we are not afraid of any fellow servants! said the athletes. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

We beseech you, all-pure One who conceived God without seed: ⁄ ever pray for your servants! [OCA]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Ode iv. Katavasia. Mode 4.

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode v. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Σὺ Κύριέ μου φῶς.

My Lord, You are the light. * Holy light, to the world You came * to turn people from the darkness * and the night of not knowing. And now in faith we sing Your praise. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

With sympathy for us * You descended to earth, O Lord. * You lifted humanity’s fallen nature * when You were suspended on the Cross, O Christ. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

O Christ, You took away * every charge against me for sins. * By Your divine resurrection, * O compassionate Savior, You ended the distress of death. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Against our every foe, * we have you, our unbreakable shield. * We hope in you for salvation. * We have you as our anchor, all-holy Virgin, Bride of God. [SD]

Canon from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (My Lord, You are the light.)

Σὺ Κύριέ μου φῶς.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Firmly establish Your Church, Lord, ⁄ that she may stand unshaken by the storm of heresy ⁄ unto ages of ages! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The rejoicing granted to the faithful from on high ⁄ and the help they have received from God ⁄ shines with glory over all the earth. [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O only good One, and source of goodness, ⁄ exalt the horn of Orthodox monarchs, ⁄ who honor your icon. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Renew the ancient splendors for us, ⁄ most pure Mother of God, ⁄ and sanctify your dwelling with grace. [OCA]

Canon for the Martyrs.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (Lord, the provider of light.)

Ὁ τοῦ φωτὸς χορηγός.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

Through the insane savagery of the tormentors, ⁄ the athletes were condemned to spend the night in the cold and open air. ⁄ They chanted a hymn of thanksgiving to God! [OCA]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The forty martyrs rejoiced to endure the painful ice, ⁄ standing on the lake. ⁄ Yet they were strengthened by the hope of divine crowns. [OCA]

Glory.

The serpent who before had made his nest in the waters ⁄ was driven out and became an object of scorn ⁄ for the forty martyrs of Christ. ⁄ He was deprived of his deadly strength! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

We cry aloud to you, for you gave birth to Christ, the Creator of all: ⁄ Rejoice, pure one! ⁄ Rejoice, for you have shone the Light on us! ⁄ Rejoice, for you contained the infinite God! [OCA]

Ode 5: Katavasia

Ode v. Katavasia. Mode 4.

My Lord, You are the light. * Holy light, to the world You came * to turn people from the darkness * and the night of not knowing. And now in faith we sing Your praise. [GOASD]

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode vi. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Θύσω σοι μετὰ φωνῆς.

“I will sacrifice to You, O Lord, with a voice of praise.” * So sings the Church You delivered * from the gore of sacrificing to demons; * for You cleansed her * by the blood that for mercy poured out from Your side. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

O Savior, You went up on the Cross, having girt yourself * with might, and wrestled the tyrant; * and as God from heaven, You took him down. * As for Adam, Your invincible hand resurrected him. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

O Christ, dazzling and handsome, You rose from the sepulcher; * and by divine might and power, * You utterly scattered all Your opponents; * and as God You filled all things with divine joy and happiness. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O miracle, more novel than all other miracles! * Behold, without man a Virgin * in her body conceived the One who holds * in His hands the universe, and He was not confined by her. [SD]

Canon from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (I will sacrifice to You.)

Θύσω σοι μετὰ φωνῆς.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Once more the Master’s countenance is depicted, ⁄ venerated and honored with faith; ⁄ once more the Church regains ⁄ her boldness of approach to God, ⁄ reverently glorifying the Savior! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The Church of Christ is delivered from the dark despondency of heresy: ⁄ she puts on a robe of gladness, ⁄ and is clothed in the light of divine grace. [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Through the decision of the Empress Theodora ⁄ and her pious son the Emperor Michael, ⁄ the Orthodox people regained the light and glory which it had of old. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

He who of old commanded Moses ⁄ to set up the ark of the testimony, ⁄ came to dwell in you, Virgin, as in a spiritual ark: ⁄ He alone is glorified, ⁄ and He makes your temple glorious with miracles. [OCA]

Canon for the Martyrs.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (Like a deep sea, my sins.)

Ἐν ἀβύσσῳ πταισμάτων.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The author of enmity snatched the one who fell away from the forty with joy ⁄ just as he took the wretched Judas from the twelve apostles ⁄ and Adam from Eden. [OCA]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The shameless devil rages in vain, ⁄ for as of old by the good thief and Matthias, ⁄ so now a guard tears the tyrant apart! [OCA]

Glory.

The man who missed both lives is empty minded and lamentable, ⁄ for when he was thawed by the fire, ⁄ he departed into the fire unquenchable. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

Virgin, you gave birth without knowing a man ⁄ and you remain ever Virgin, ⁄ revealing images of your Son and God, the true Deity! [OCA]

Ode 6: Katavasia

Ode vi. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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.

From Triodion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode pl. 4. (not metered)

The Father’s uncircumscribed Word was circumscribed in taking flesh from you, O Theotokos. His image had been soiled, so He restored it to its primordial form, and in so doing combined it with divine beauty. And confessing our salvation, we depict it in word and deed. [GKD]

Oikos.

This, the mystery of the plan of salvation - this present illumination - did the prophets foretell of old, with divine inspiration, to us who have come to the ages’ termination. Receiving knowledge from Him, we know one Lord God, glory giv’n in three hypostases. And in giving Him our sole adoration, being one in Faith and Rite of Immersion, we are vested in Christ, and confessing our salvation, we depict it in word and deed. [GKD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On March 9, we commemorate the holy and great Forty Martyrs, who witnessed in the city of Sebastia.

On this day we commemorate the holy Martyr Urpasian.

On this day we also commemorate Saint Kesarios, brother of Saint Gregory the Theologian.

On this day the holy Martyrs, a Grandfather, Grandmother, Father, Mother, and two Children, died by the sword.

From the Triodion.

On this day, the first Sunday of Lent, we commemorate the restoration of the holy and venerable icons enacted by the ever-memorable Emperors of Constantinople, Michael and his mother Theodora, during the patriarchate of Saint Methodius the Confessor.

Verses

I rejoice as I see now venerated correctly

The Icons that once had been banned incorrectly.

O unaltered Image of the Father, by the intercessions of your holy Confessors, have mercy on us. Amen.

From Octoechos - - -

CHOIR

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode vii. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Ἐν τῇ καμίνῳ Ἀβραμιαῖοι.

Inside the furnace * in ancient Persia, sons of Abraham * were consumed with pious fear and the love of God * rather than the fiery flame, and sang * together, “In the temple of Your holy glory, You are blessed, O Lord.” [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Having been washed clean * in the divine and holy blood of Christ, * humanity is called back to immortal life; * and with gratitude we sing to Him, * “O Savior, in the temple of Your holy glory, You are blessed, O Lord.” [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Your tomb was shown forth * to be more beautiful than Paradise * and by far more splendid than any king’s * royal chamber, for it hosted Life. * It is the source of our resurrection, O Christ, for You rose from it. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Divine and hallowed * habitation of the Most High God, rejoice! * For through you, O Theotokos, was given joy * unto us who cry aloud to you: * Among all women, Lady, you are blessed, all-blameless, and immaculate. [SD]

Canon from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (Inside the furnace.)

Ἐν τῇ καμίνῳ Ἀβραμιαῖοι.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Let the hosts of angels share in the joy of the Church, ⁄ and filled with the love of God, let them cry aloud: ⁄ Blessed are You, Lord, in the temple of Your glory! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The triumphant assembly and Church of the firstborn rejoices ⁄ beholding the people of God who cry aloud with one accord: ⁄ Blessed are You, Lord, in the temple of Your glory! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Delivered from the dark heresies of the past ⁄ through the decision of the honored Empress Theodora, we cry aloud: ⁄ Blessed are You, Lord, in the temple of Your glory! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Most pure Virgin, you are exalted above the choirs on high, ⁄ for alone among women, ⁄ you became Mother of the Creator of all. ⁄ And so in joy we shout aloud: ⁄ Blessed are you among women, undefiled Lady! [OCA]

Canon for the Martyrs.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (The image of gold.)

Εἰκόνος χρυσῆς.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The guard set over the forty martyrs was struck with awe ⁄ as he beheld their crowns. ⁄ He rejected the things that bound him to life. ⁄ He took wing with the love of Your manifest glory ⁄ and together with the martyrs he sang: ⁄ Blessed are You, the God of our fathers! [OCA]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The one who loved his life died as he hastened to the soul-destroying bath. ⁄ The one who loved Christ most perfectly understood what he saw. ⁄ Together with the martyrs, as in an incorruptible bath, he sang: ⁄ Blessed are You, the God of our fathers! [OCA]

Glory.

When the spiritual fire burned in the minds of the forty, ⁄ the subtle madness of the impious was consumed as melting wax. ⁄ Together they sang to you, O Christ: ⁄ Blessed are You, the God of our fathers! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

Moses foresaw you, pure one, as a burning bush, ⁄ which was not consumed, yet bore the unbearable radiance of ineffable Being. ⁄ He is One of the holy Persons who has united Himself to our flesh! [OCA]

Ode 7: Katavasia

Ode vii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode viii. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Χεῖρας ἐκπετάσας Δανιήλ.

Daniel shut the lions’ gaping mouths inside the den of old, by stretching out his hands. * The three young men overcame the force * of the furnace fire, having girt * themselves in virtue, for they loved * godliness, and were together singing, * “Bless the Lord and praise Him, all you works of the Lord.” [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Master, when You stretched Your hands upon the Cross, You gathered all the nations to yourself. * You made them one holy Church, O Christ, * which is praising and extolling You, * with those in heaven and on earth * united and all together singing, * “Bless the Lord and praise Him, all you works of the Lord.” [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

An Angel, his raiment white and dazzling with the resurrection’s unapproachable light, * appeared at the sepulcher * to the women, saying, “Why do you seek * among the dead the One who lives? * Christ has truly risen!” To whom we cry out, * “Bless the Lord and praise Him, all you works of the Lord.” [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Immaculate Virgin, in all generations only you became the Mother of God; * and you were also the dwelling place * of the Godhead, O all-blameless one, * and you were not at all consumed * by the fire of the unapproachable light. * We all now bless you, O Mary the Bride of God. [SD]

Canon from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (Daniel shut.)

Χεῖρας ἐκπετάσας Δανιήλ.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Keeping the laws of the Church we received from the Fathers, ⁄ we paint icons of Christ and His saints, ⁄ and with our lips and heart and will ⁄ we venerate them as we cry aloud: ⁄ All works of the Lord, bless the Lord! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The honor and veneration we show to the icon ⁄ we ascribe to the prototype it represents, ⁄ following the teaching of the saints inspired by God, ⁄ and with faith we cry aloud to Christ: ⁄ All works of the Lord, bless the Lord! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Her mind enlightened by the illumination of the Holy Spirit ⁄ and filled with the wisdom of God, ⁄ the honored Empress ⁄ loved the beauty and splendor of the Church of Christ, ⁄ and with all the faithful ⁄ she blesses Jesus, the God-Man. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Illumined by rays of spiritual light, ⁄ your holy house overshadows us all with the cloud of the Spirit ⁄ and sanctifies the faithful who sing with one accord: ⁄ All works of the Lord, bless the Lord! [OCA]

Canon for the Martyrs.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (When God went down.)

Τὸν ἐν καμίνῳ τοῦ πυρός.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

Cruelly inciting every creature against the athletes, ⁄ the enemy has been put to shame by them all! ⁄ The forty martyrs ever praise the Lord ⁄ and exalt Him above all forever! [OCA]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The members of your bodies were viciously crushed for Christ. ⁄ You were offered to God as a divine holocaust. ⁄ You ever join the choir of angels, martyrs, ⁄ singing hymns to Christ throughout all ages! [OCA]

Glory.

Make your journey and run straight to everlasting life, my Son, ⁄ the Christ-loving mother cried to her Christ-loving child. ⁄ For I could not bear to see you appear in second place ⁄ before Christ, the Judge of the contest! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

The Son who is not parted from the bosom of the Father, ⁄ made his dwelling in your maternal womb, pure Virgin Bride of God. ⁄ We hymn and highly exalt Him throughout all ages! [OCA]

Ode 8: Katavasia

Ode viii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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 ix.

The Magnificat. Mode 4.

Verse: My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. [NKJV]

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. [GOASD]

Verse: For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; for behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. [NKJV]

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. [GOASD]

Verse: For He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him from generation to generation. [NKJV]

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. [GOASD]

Verse: He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. [NKJV]

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. [GOASD]

Verse: He has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich He has sent away empty. [NKJV]

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. [GOASD]

Verse: He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy, as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. [NKJV]

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. [GOASD]

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode ix. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Λίθος ἀχειρότμητος.

A cornerstone was cut out without hands from a never-quarried mountain, * which prefigured you, holy Virgin. * The stone is Christ, who joined the disparate natures. * As we rejoice because of this, O Theotokos, we magnify you. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

You assumed the whole of me wholly in a union without confusion; * and when You had worked my salvation, * bodily bearing Your Passion and the Cross, * You gave it to the whole of me, * because of Your immense compassion, as God. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

When they saw Your sepulcher opened and the linen cloths that had covered * Your divine body, Your Disciples * became aware of Your resurrection, O Christ, * they cried out as the Angel had, * “The Lord has truly risen from the dead!” [SD]

Holy Trinity, our God, have mercy on us and save us.

For the Trinity.

All we the believers now worship God, one in nature and in essence, * but three in hypostases and persons * unconfused, and equal in might and honor. * With Orthodox theology, we magnify the Holy Trinity. [SD]

Canon from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (A cornerstone.)

Λίθος ἀχειρότμητος.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Seeing the Holy Church adorned with icons once more, ⁄ let us make haste and cry aloud to Christ with reverence: ⁄ We magnify You, Thrice Holy One! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

As a mark of glory and honor, ⁄ the Church possesses Your Cross, ⁄ and the holy icons of the saints, Master, ⁄ and with joy and gladness she magnifies You! [OCA]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Shine on those in authority with Your divine glory, ⁄ compassionate Master, ⁄ and fence them around with the protection of the angelic hosts, ⁄ subjecting the proud powers of evil beneath their feet! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Since you, pure Theotokos, ineffably gave birth to the Master of all, ⁄ the condemnation of our first mother Eve has been abolished, ⁄ and now we kiss His likeness in icons! [OCA]

Canon for the Martyrs.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (Being from God.)

Τὸν ἐκ Θεοῦ Θεὸν Λόγον.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

You were stripped naked and stoned for the sake of Christ. ⁄ You endured the wintry air, icy water and the crushing of your limbs. ⁄ You were consumed by fire, forty martyrs. ⁄ You shine like beacons in the rushing river! [OCA]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

They acquired the Cross as a staff of divine power ⁄ and the forty athletes cried out to Christ: ⁄ Master, almighty Conqueror, ⁄ crown us with Your own hand, ⁄ that we may unceasingly magnify You with hymns! [OCA]

Glory.

You endured the pain of ice the boundless cruelty of cold. ⁄ But Paradise is sweet! ⁄ The bosom of the patriarch Abraham warms you in the eternal mansions! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

The hosts of angels entreat your Son, Virgin Bride and Mother. ⁄ Accept our prayers, for you alone re the hope of the faithful. ⁄ Grant peace to the world and victory and salvation to us who love you! [OCA]

Ode 9: Katavasia

Ode ix. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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.

CHOIR

Mode 2.

Holy is the Lord our God. (2) [SAAS]

Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at the footstool of His feet.

For He is holy.

From Octoechos - - -

Exaposteilarion.

Eothinon 4.

Mode 2. Let us in faith.

Τοῖς Μαθηταῖς συνέλθωμεν.

Let us with virtues dazzling bright * picture the two men standing * at the life-bearing sepulcher * in their dazzling apparel, * beside the Myrrh-bearing Women, * frightened and bowing their faces. * With Peter, let us also run * to life inside the tomb, now that we have learned * that the Lord of heaven has truly risen. * Let us marvel at what transpired, * and let us stay to see Christ. [GOASD]

For the Feast.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 2. O Women, hearken.

Γυναῖκες ἀκουτίσθητε.

Exult, O peoples, and applaud, * and sing in praise with joyful heart. * And cry to Christ, Oh how wondrous * are all Your works, and unusual! * And who is able to declare * the mighty deeds that You perform, * O Savior, for You unified * our single mind and consensus * in one holy Church assembly. [SD]

For the Saints.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. O Women, hearken.

Γυναῖκες ἀκουτίσθητε.

The unit of the two score men * of the all-holy Trinity, * the choir of forty Martyrs * contended for Christ the Savior. * Let them be praised in sacred songs, * for they endured the elements, * fire and air and water * and earth with the fourfold virtues, * all for the almighty Master. [SD]

Theotokion.

Mode 2. O Women, hearken.

Rejoice, redemption from the curse, * and Adam’s reestablishment. * Rejoice, O pure Theotokos, * the hope of the world and shelter. * O Mother of our God, rejoice; * O vehicle divine, rejoice. * Rejoice, O ladder and east-gate; * rejoice, O swift and light cloud; * rejoice, the release of Eva. [SD]

Lauds. Mode 4.

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]

Show Stichologia

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.

Hide Stichologia

Resurrectional Stichera.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 4.

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

You endured the Cross and death, and You rose from the dead. O almighty Lord, we glorify Your resurrection. [GOASD]

Mode 4.

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

By Your Cross You freed us from the ancient curse, O Christ; and by Your death You neutralized the devil who tyrannized our nature; and by Your resurrection, You filled the whole world with joy. Therefore we sing to You, who rose from the dead, “Glory to You, O Lord.” [GOASD]

For the Feast.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. You have given.

Ἔδωκας σημείωσιν.

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

The Church is exultant now in You, benevolent Lord of all, * You her Bridegroom and Fashioner, * in You, who by Your own will, most divine, have ransomed * her from the delusion of idols with Your precious blood, * and then, O Master, betrothed her to yourself. * And gaily she takes pleasure in the most august restoration of holy Icons, with faith and joy * giving glory and praising You. [SD]

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

As we now restore depictions of Your body, we honor them * with a kiss, venerating them * relatively, and thereby we declare the mys’try * of Your plan to save us. In Your benevolence, O Lord, * to us You came in human nature indeed, * not merely in appearance, as the sons of Manis, Your enemies, say.* Through the icons of You we are led to longing and love for You. [SD]

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

Today has been manifested as a day of festivity, * as a day full of happiness. * The bright light of very true * dogmas shines like lightning. * And Christ’s Church is glowing, * for she is once again adorned * by the replacement and installation now * of holy icons and depictions, and the light that they radiate. * And a oneness of mind among * the believers has God bestowed. [SD]

For the Saints.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 1. Rejoice.

Χαίροις ἀσκητικῶν.

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

Brethren, come now and let us sing praise * with hymns extolling the platoon of the martyred saints, * for they were consumed by freezing, * and they themselves thus consumed * the chill of delusion by their ardent zeal. * An army most valorous, a contingent most hallowed, * they fought as comrades, all for one and invincible. * They were guardians of the Faith, a protective wall. * Such are the forty martyred saints, a chorus inspired by God, * the Church’s great intercessors, who make entreaties most powerful * to Christ, that He send down * lasting peace upon the world and great mercy on our souls. [SD]

Verse: God is wondrous in His saints. [SAAS]

Mighty, sacred assembly, rejoice. * O decorated and unbeatable regiment,* the towers of true religion, you are the soldiers of Christ,* rugged men in armor and invincible.* Most focused in intellect, and most manly in soul are you,* truly divine men, and exceedingly loved by God,* and a holy choir, and a God-chosen army corps.* O forty Martyrs of the Lord, all equal in suffering,* in frame of mind you were equal, and you received equal laurel crowns.* To Christ pray intently,* and entreat Him that He grant His great mercy to our souls. [SD]

Verse: To the saints on His earth, in them the Lord magnified all His will. [SAAS]

Rejoice, O holy prize-winning band, * manfully fighting in the battles with excellence, * O stars who, after you passed through * the test of fire and cold,* by your ardent faith did melt the frozen lake. * A heaven you made of earth; you illumined the universe. * You now are kept warm in the bosom of Abraham, * and in chorus dance with angelical regiments. * O forty Martyrs of the Lord, the flowers of Paradise * emitting spiritual fragrance indeed dispensing the Spirit’s gifts. * To Christ pray intently, * and entreat Him that He grant His great mercy to our souls. [SD]

Glory. From the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode pl. 2.

Moses, after a time of self-control, received the law and won over the people. Elias, in fasting, caused the closing of the heavens; and the three youths, descendants of Abraham, by fasting overcame the law-breaking tyrant. Through fasting make us also worthy, O Savior, to arrive at Your Resurrection, as thus we cry aloud, “Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.” [GKD]

From Octoechos - - -

Both now. Theotokion.

You are supremely blessed, O Virgin Theotokos. For through Him who from you became incarnate, Hades has been captured, and Adam has been called back; the curse has been killed, and Eve has been freed; death has been put to death, and we have been brought back to life. Therefore we extol Him and cry out, “O Christ our God, You are blessed, for so was Your good pleasure. Glory to You!” [GOASD]

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.

After the Doxology, sing the following Resurrectional Troparion.

Mode 4. (or the Mode of the week)

Today has salvation come to pass in the world. Let us sing to Him who resurrected from the tomb and is the Author of our life. For, destroying death by death, He gave us the victory and the great mercy. [SD]

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 He who rose from the dead, Christ our true God, through the intercessions of His all-pure and all-immaculate holy Mother, 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 the holy and glorious Great Forty Martyrs of Sebastia, whose memory we celebrate; 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.