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Pentecostarion

Thursday of the Third Week

Menaion - May 8

Memory of the St. John the Theologian

__________

MATINS

CHOIR

Mode 2.

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.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2.

When You descended unto Death, O Lord, You who are immortal Life put Hades to death, by the lightning of Your divinity. And when You raised the dead from the netherworld, all the hosts of heaven sang aloud to You, “O Christ God, Giver of life, glory to You!” [GOASD]

Glory. For the Evangelist.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2.

O Apostle, the beloved of Christ God, hasten to deliver us, a people that has no excuse. He accepts you supplicating Him, for He condescended at the Supper to let you lean on Him. Entreat Him, O Theologian, that He scatter the persistent cloud of hostile nations, and pray for us, for peace and great mercy. [SD]

Both now. For the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2.

The Angel who had come to the sepulcher said to the Myrrh-bearing women, “Ointments are appropriate for mortal men; but Christ is indeed a stranger to decay. Now go proclaim that the Lord has risen and granted to the world the great mercy.” [GOASD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 13. 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 Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2.

The women came secretly to Your tomb, bringing spices to anoint You at early dawn, fearing the severity of the Jewish leaders, and dreading the security of the guard of soldiers. Yet their frail nature prevailed over manliness, for pleasing to God were their sympathetic sentiments. And fittingly they cried aloud, “Arise, O Lord; help us, and redeem us for Your name’s sake.” [GOASD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2.

We have become partakers of divine nature through you, O ever-virgin Maid, since for us you gave birth unto God become incarnate. Therefore we all dutifully magnify you piously. [SD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 14. 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. For the Evangelist.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the Wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

As a disciple with close access to the Lord, * at the Supper you leaned close upon His breast * and asked Jesus, “Who is it, O Lord, who will betray you?” * And with the bread He clearly indicated him unto you, * for you were His beloved disciple, O glorious. * Therefore, O Apostle Theologian and mystic * of myst’ries ineffable, you teach the Incarnation * of the Word to the whole wide world. * Intercede with Christ our God * that He grant forgiveness of offenses * to those who with longing observe your holy memory. [SD]

Glory. Both now. For the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. (not metered)

The devout Myrrh-bearing Women came to Your tomb, O Savior, intent on anointing You the Master with spices as if You were mortal. But an Angel declared the joy to them: “The Lord has risen. So, announce to the Apostles His truly terrific resurrection from the sepulcher.” [SD]

The Polyeleos.

Psalm 134 (135).

Psalm 135 (136).

Selected Psalm Verses

Selected Psalm Verses for Apostles

The firmament. Alleluia.

1. The heavens declare the glory of God; the firmament shows the creation of His hands Alleluia. (18:2) [SAAS]

2. The heavens shall confess Your wonders, O Lord, and Your truth in the church of the saints. Alleluia. (88:6) [SAAS]

3. In place of your fathers, sons shall be born to you. Alleluia. (44:17) [SAAS]

4. You shall make them rulers over all the earth. Alleluia. (44:17) [SAAS]

5. The rulers of the people gather together with the God of Abraham. Alleluia. (46:10) [SAAS]

6. For God’s mighty ones of the earth are greatly exalted. Alleluia. (46:10) [SAAS]

7. The God of gods, the Lord, spoke, and summoned the earth. Alleluia. (49:1) [SAAS]

8. From the rising of the sun to its setting, praise the name of the Lord. Alleluia. (112:3) [SAAS]

9. Your lightning gave light to the world. Alleluia. (76:19) [SAAS]

10. The heavens proclaimed His righteousness. Alleluia. (96:6) [SAAS]

11. The rulers of Judea are their leaders. Alleluia. (67:28) [SAAS]

12. The rulers of Zebulun and Naphtali. Alleluia. (67:28) [SAAS]

13. God reigns over the nations. Alleluia. (46:9) [SAAS]

14. God is glorified in the counsel of saints. Alleluia. (88:8) [SAAS]

15. He is great and fearful toward all round about Him. Alleluia. (88:8) [SAAS]

16. Bring to the Lord, O families of the Gentiles, bring to the Lord glory and honor. Alleluia. (95:7) [SAAS]

17. Declare His glory among the Gentiles, His wonders among all peoples. Alleluia. (95:3) [SAAS]

18. Say among the Gentiles, “The Lord is King, for He established the world, which shall not be shaken. Alleluia. (95:10) [SAAS]

19. In the council of the upright and in the assembly, great are the works of the Lord. Alleluia. (110:1) [SAAS]

20. Their proclamation went forth into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world. Alleluia. (18:5) [SAAS]

21. He put among them the words of His signs. Alleluia. (104:27) [SAAS]

22. And He gave them the lands of the nations, and they inherited the labors of the peoples. Alleluia. (104:44) [SAAS]

23. He subdued the peoples under us and the nations under our feet. Alleluia. (46:4) [SAAS]

24. He chose us for His inheritance. Alleluia. (46:5) [SAAS]

25. Great is our Lord, and great is His strength; His understanding exceeds every measure. Alleluia. (146:5) [SAAS]

26. The God of Israel shall give power and strength to His people. Blessed is God. Alleluia. (67:36) [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 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

Kathisma III. For the Evangelist.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Ταχὺ προκατάλαβε.

Today is the memory of the Apostle Saint John * throughout the entire world, and it illumines us all. * So let us now honor it. * It is clearly apparent in the Gospel he authored * that he was the Lord’s friend and a true theologian. * Therefore he pours out healings to all those who honor him. [SD]

Glory. Both now. For the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. In seeking the heights.

Τὰ ἄνω ζητῶν.

The Myrrh-bearing Women brought spices and came with faith, * earnestly seeking to anoint You, benevolent Lord. * Then an Angel spoke to them * from the tomb, announcing, “The Giver of life * and Lord has arisen, * after trampling Hades and death.” [SD]

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 18.

His proclamation went forth into all the earth, and his words to the ends of the world. (2)

Verse: The heavens declare the glory of God; the firmament shows the creation of His hands.

His proclamation went forth into all the earth, and his words to the ends of the world. [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 John.

DEACON: Let us be attentive.

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

PRIEST (from the gate)

Jn. 21:14 – 25

At that time, Jesus revealed himself to the disciples after he was raised from the dead. And he said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” A second time he said to him, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself and walked where you would; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go.” (This he said to show by what death he was to glorify God.) And after this he said to him, “Follow me.” Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!” The saying spread abroad among the brethren that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?” This is the disciple who is bearing witness to these things, and who has written these things; and we know that his testimony is true. But there are also many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen. [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]

READER (read)

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.

At the intercession of the Apostle, O Lord of mercy, blot out my many offenses. [SD]

Both now.

At the intercession of the Theotokos, O Lord of mercy, blot out my many offenses. [SD]

Idiomelon. Mode 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. [SAAS]

He is the paramount of the Apostles, the trumpet of theology, the spiritual general, who made the civilized world subject to God: that celebrated Evangelist John. Come believers, let us call him blessed. He was translated from earth, yet not withdrawn from earth; he is alive and waiting for the fearful second coming of the Master. “May we meet it uncondemned, O mystical bosom friend of Christ, as you pray for us who lovingly observe your memory.” [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 the holy and glorious Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, whose memory we celebrate; 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.

CHOIR

The Canon

Ode i.

Canon for the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Heirmos.

Τὴν Μωσέως ᾠδήν.

O my soul, taking up the ode of Moses, cry aloud and say: * He became for me a helper and shelter unto salvation. * He is my God and I will glorify Him. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Joseph took down Your body, and he wrapped it in a linen shroud, * and he laid You in his own new sepulcher, O Christ, our salvation. * Then You, being God, resurrected the dead. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The Women went at early dawn, and they saw the risen Christ. * They told it to the Lord’s Disciples, saying, “Christ has truly risen! * Come with us and see, and extol Him as God.” [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Blessed Virgin, in your holy womb you reversed the ancient curse, * You gave birth to an infant, and for us you thus brought forth the blessing. * For He is our God, even though He has flesh. [GOASD]

Canon for the Apostle.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The rod of Moses.

Ἁρματηλάτην Φαραώ.

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

As you were chaste and pure, you were beloved of the most supernal Light; * and as you were leaning on His breast with confidence, * your holy soul was drawing in from that ocean of wisdom * the divine light of the knowledge of God, * O holy and blessed Apostle John. [GOASD]

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

Glory.

Beloved of Christ, you wrote sublime theology, proclaiming thunderously * that in the beginning was the Word, and that the Word * was with His Father, and was God, hypostatic and living, * and that the Word became flesh for us, * and that He remained never-changing God. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

All-holy Lady, your protection shelters us each time we run to you * to weather the storm surge of our life’s calamities. * And now that we have fallen deep into sin, we implore you * to pray to God, that He lift us up * by your intercessions, O Virgin pure. [GOASD]

Ode 1: Katavasia

Ode i. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Resurrection Day! O peoples, let us brilliantly shine! * Pascha, the Lord’s Pascha! * For Christ our God has out of death * passed us over into life, * and likewise from earth * to heaven, as we now sing * unto Him a triumphal hymn. [GOASD]

Ode iii.

Canon for the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Heirmos.

Στειρωθέντα μου τὸν νοῦν.

Barren has my mind become. * Make me fruitful, O my God, in Your compassion, * as the Husbandman of good, * and the gardener of all * that is virtuous. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Noble Joseph, who held God, * come and stand with us and shout that the Redeemer * has arisen, Jesus Christ * who raised Adam out of Hades in His tender love. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Come and celebrate with us, * holy twelve Apostles and Myrrh-bearing Women, * noble Joseph and the rest * of the holy men and women, you Disciples of Christ. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Holy Virgin, you are blessed, * being born of Jesse’s root. From you has blossomed * rod and flower in the flesh, * namely Christ, who was incarnate to redeem us all. [GOASD]

Canon for the Apostle.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. In the beginning.

Ὁ στερεώσας κατʼ ἀρχάς.

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

You left behind all worldly ties, * even the ones to your father, * and with godly love you followed the Logos, * who is Lord; and you became * a fisher not of fish but men, * O wise St. John, and also * a theologian inspired by God. [GOASD]

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

Glory.

When you had purified the eye * of your soul, O Theologian, * you beheld the ineffable glory * of the Father’s divine Word, * His only-begotten Son, * through whom and by His Spirit * in wisdom all things have come to be. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Virgin Mother of our God, * I turn to you for protection, * and you rescue me from harm and ill treatment * by my foes, and I am saved * because you intercede for me. * O Lady, may I also * escape the imminent punishment. [GOASD]

Ode 3: Katavasia

Ode iii. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Come and let us drink a new drink, * not one marvelously issuing from a barren rock, * but one that Christ from the tomb * pours out, incorruption’s very source. * For we are established in Him. [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 Pentecostarion - - -

Kontakion. For the Myrrhbearers.

Mode 2.

In saying Rejoice to the myrrh-bearers, You allayed the lament of the first mother Eve, at Your Resurrection, O Christ our God. And You ordered Your Apostles to proclaim, * “The Savior has risen from the sepulcher.” [SD]

CHOIR

Kathisma.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the Wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

By reclining and leaning on Wisdom’s breast, * you acquired the knowledge of what exists. * Inspired, you thundered, “In the beginning was the Logos.” * You were the first to write of the eternal generation, * and that the Word became flesh, and you proclaimed it to everyone. * Catching in the net of your divine words the nations, * throughout all the world you teach about the grace of the Spirit. * O theologian Apostle John, * intercede with Christ our God, that He grant forgiveness of offenses * to those who with longing observe your holy memory. [GOASD]

Glory. Both now. For the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. In seeking the heights.

Τὰ ἄνω ζητῶν.

The Women with zeal brought spices to Your sepulcher. * Their souls leapt for joy beholding the Angel’s dazzling light. * And they boldly proclaimed You the King of all; * and said to the Disciples, * “Truly the Life of all has risen from the grave.” [SD]

Ode iv.

Canon for the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Heirmos.

Τὴν ἐκ παρθένου.

When he foresaw Your nativity * from the Virgin, the Prophet * crying out of old proclaimed: * I have heard Your report and I have become frightened; * for You have come to us * out of Teman and from the overshadowed * holy mountain, O my Christ. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

When You had risen, You said, “Rejoice!” to the Myrrh-bearing Women, * who had come to Your tomb. * To the Apostles You said, “Proclaim My resurrection.” * Good Lord, undo the bonds of my many transgressions, * I pray You, who can do whatever You will. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

As we all faithfully sing and praise our Savior’s resurrection, * let us honor and extol * pious Joseph, that respected member of the council, * the Apostles of Christ, and the Myrrh-bearing Women, * and together let us celebrate with joy. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O virgin Mother immaculate, who gave birth without labor, * never cease to pray to Him * who made His dwelling inside your womb, O Theotokos, * that He undo the bonds of my many transgressions, * I pray you, who can help whomever You will. [GOASD]

Canon for the Apostle.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. You are my strength.

Σύ μου ἰσχύς.

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

The Lord gave you, His dear disciple, the epithet, * Son of Thunder, and inspired you to thundrously proclaim the great mystery, * that He was begotten of God the Father ineffably. * And now, O Theologian, as we rightly extol you, * we sing hymns glorifying your memory. [GOASD]

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

Glory.

Having attained the height of virtue, you there beheld * in His glory the incarnate and only-begotten Word, shining rays of light, * who without beginning is Son of God, ever seated in * the bosom of the Father, whose voice you heard bear witness * to His sonship, O holy Apostle John. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Mother of God, I am relying on you for help, * even I your worthless servant. May I not be put to shame when I pray on you, * O all-blameless Virgin. For after God you are my defense, * impenetrable fortress, and my hope of obtaining * the divine life and peace in the age to come. [GOASD]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Ode iv. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Now let Habakkuk as a God-inspired prophet stand with us, * keeping his divine watch, and show us * the angelic messenger, who, shining, utters glowingly, * “Today, for the world is salvation,* because arisen is Christ, being omnipotent.” [GOASD]

Ode v.

Canon for the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Heirmos.

Τὴν ἀχλὺν τῆς ψυχῆς μου.

I implore You to scatter the mist on my soul, O Savior, * and illuminate me with the light of Your divine commandments, * as the only King of peace. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

We keep the memory of the pious Myrrh-bearing Women * and all Your Disciples, as we celebrate Your Resurrection, * and we sing Your praise, O Christ. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Let us worthily honor Joseph of Arimathea, * for he faithfully took down from the cross the Lord’s holy body, * and he laid it in a tomb. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

We believers extol you who gave birth, transcending nature, * to the One who renewed all of nature, Christ the only Master, * as the Mother of our God. [GOASD]

Canon for the Apostle.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. Why reject me, Your servant.

Ἵνα τί με ἀπώσω.

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

The immaculate light was shining in the darkness of the world, O blessed John. * You saw it and loved it and united yourself to it and became * a lamp of true religion; and you enlightened all the nations * with the light of inspired theology. [GOASD]

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

Glory.

O beloved Son of Thunder, knowing that the Law, which was a shadow, long ago * was given through Moses, and divine grace and truth came through Christ our God, * you proclaimed the gospel that He is truly God the Logos, * and you thundered inspired theology. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

You support and protect me, immaculate Virgin, like a strong defensive wall. * Therefore I implore you to defend and to guard me both day and night, * from the devil’s many attempts to injure me and harm me, so that I may extol you with faith and love. [GOASD]

Ode 5: Katavasia

Ode v. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Arising at dawn very early, * instead of ointment, a hymn let us offer unto the Master, * and then we shall clearly see* Christ, the Sun of Righteousness, * causing true life to arise for all. [GOASD]

Ode vi.

Canon for the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Heirmos.

Βυθῷ ἁμαρτημάτων.

The gulf of my transgressions, O Savior, presses me, * and in the ocean of life I am foundering. * As once You extracted Jonah from the whale, * so now from the passions haul me up, * and bring me to safety. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Respected Joseph wrapped You in linen cloths, O Christ, * and with spices bound the temple of Your body, * which according to Your word had been destroyed, * laid it in the sepulcher, and rolled a stone against the door. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Myrrh-bearing Women, why are you in a rush? * Why bring burial ointments to the living One? * Christ has truly risen just as He foretold. * No longer should you lament and weep. Let your grief turn into joy. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O Virgin, without husbandry in your womb, like a vine, * you conceived the fruit of immortality, * from which came forth the imperishable streams * as wine that spring up for us to everlasting life. [GOASD]

Canon for the Apostle.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. My transgressions.

Ἄβυσσος ἁμαρτιῶν.

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

Long ago, Isaiah saw what appeared to be a coal of divine fire, * which touched his lips and cleansed them, and he was granted prophecy. * When the Word of God became incarnate, O blessed John, * you became His beloved disciple and Bosom Friend. [GOASD]

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

Glory.

The only-begotten Word is ever in the bosom of the Father. * When He became incarnate, you beheld Him, O blessed John, * His disciple whom He loved. And He made known to you * that without His human body no one has ever seen God. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Holy Virgin, you gave birth to the reflection of the Father’s glory, * all-lauded one, I pray you to illumine my darkened soul. * And we, who as devotees, enjoy your gifts of grace, * Theotokos, refute the drivel of the heretics. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Katavasia

Ode vi. Katavasia. Mode 1.

You went down to the nether regions of earth, * and You broke apart the bars that forever * were closed on those who were held there, O Christ. * From the sepulcher, * as did Jonah from the whale, * You arose on the third day. [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.

From Menaion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode 2.

Who can recount all your mighty deeds, O Virgin? You pour out miracles and you overflow with cures, and you intercede on behalf of our souls, as a Theologian and Friend of Christ. [SD]

Oikos.

Daring and incomprehensible it is to search out celestial heights, and the depths of the sea as well. So just as it is wholly impossible to number the stars and the sand on the shores, so no one is able to tell about the Theologian, so many are the crowns with which Christ has crowned His beloved. He leaned on His chest and ate with Him at the Mystical Supper, as a Theologian and Friend of Christ. [SD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On May 8 we commemorate the holy and glorious Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, the Virgin and Beloved Bosom Friend of Christ, and celebrate the service in honor of the Holy Dust, that is, the Manna, that issued from his grave.

On this day we also commemorate our devout Father Arsenios the Great.

On this day devout Saint Meles the hymnographer reposed in peace.

On this day a regiment of soldiers died by the sword.

By their holy intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

CHOIR

Ode vii.

Canon for the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Heirmos.

Τὰ Χερουβὶμ μιμούμενοι.

The Servants in the furnace fire * danced as they imitated * the Cherubim, and cried out: * Blessed are You, O Lord our God, * for You have caused all this to befall us and Your holy city, in truth and in judgment, on account of our sins. * You are supremely extolled and You are glorified, unto all the ages. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The guard of soldiers who became like dead men should explain it. * They did not see Him stolen, * and you know nothing at all. * For although they did not see Him risen or witness it, * how could they conclude that He was stolen from the tomb? * At least be convinced by the sepulcher’s great stone and the burial shroud of Christ. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Why seal the stone and set a guard, O Pharisees and chief priests? * Were you so afraid that the dead man would be stolen away? * Behold, you made the sepulcher secure and sealed the stone. * So, then, how is Christ risen, unless He is God? * The risen bodies of the saints should convince you, for they appeared to many. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O Virgin, how did you contain in your womb as an infant * the One whom hosts of Angels attend with fear, since He is God? * According to His plan, as He knew how, He dwelt in you, * as He wished to save all of Adam’s offspring born on earth, * and free Adam from the curse he was under for eating the forbidden fruit. [GOASD]

Canon for the Apostle.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The fire in Babylon.

Θεοῦ συγκατάβασιν.

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

All-blessed Apostle John, * eagerly breaking free of material bonds, * you were God’s loyal servant. * And as a messenger of theology * inspired by God, you instructed all to sing * the words, “O God of our fathers, blesssed are You!” [GOASD]

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

All-blessed Evangelist, * you counted gold and riches to be as grass. * Then for you by God’s power * some grass turned to gold, and you theologized * bout the Maker of all, and you sang to Him * the words, “O God of our fathers, blesssed are You!” [GOASD]

Glory.

O only-begotten Word * of God the Father who is beginningless, * from Him the Holy Spirit * proceeds and takes what is Yours inseparbly, * to Your Apostles declaring that they should sing * the words, “O God of our fathers, blesssed are You!” [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Sublime and inffable * are blessings your ineffable childbirth grants * to us, O Theotokos. * And now I pray you, save me from punishment, * and count me worthy of the inffable joy, * and I will ever extol you, my Lady praised by all. [GOASD]

Ode 7: Katavasia

Ode vii. Katavasia. Mode 1.

The same One who delivered the Lads from fire, becoming a mortal man, * suffers in the flesh; and by His Passion He arrays * mortal nature with majesty, free of all * corruption, the only God of the fathers, * blessed and supremely glorious. [GOASD]

Ode viii.

Canon for the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Heirmos.

Τὸν ἐν τῇ βάτῳ Μωσῇ.

Within the bush once, the Lord * on Mount Sinai prefigured * unto Moses the virgin Maiden’s miracle of old.* Extol Him as you bless Him, * and exalt supremely, * unto all the ages. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The very stone and the seals that you placed on it cry out; * you had a guard of soldiers that you set to watch the tomb, * and all are bearing witness * that Christ has risen indeed and lives unto the ages. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Indeed Christ has risen, and Hades has been despoiled, * the serpent has been deadened, and Adam has been redeemed, * those below have been saved. * So why do you still disbelieve, you enemies and transgressors? [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The living bread was compounded with our composition * uncompoundedly, O Virgin, within your holy womb, * and you gave birth to Christ God, * who without change came forth as one person in two natures. [GOASD]

Canon for the Apostle.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The tyrant king.

Ἑπταπλασίως κάμινον.

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

Solemn indeed and dignified is your glorious memory, * fragrant as it is with Jesus’s divinity, * divinely illumining His holy Church, Evangelist John, * Therefore, celebrating it, the faithful are singing, * “You Servants, bless and praise Christ; O you priests and you people, * exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages.” [GOASD]

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

Glory.

We have as leader of our choir Theologian Apostle John, * who theologized about You, Christ; and we proclaim * that You with the Father and the Holy Spirit are truly God. * Joyfully extolling You, we sing to You, saying, * “You Servants, bless and praise Christ; O you priests and you people, * exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages.” [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

All-blameless Virgin, you gave birth in the body to God the Word. * Implore Him to rescue me from the eternal fire. * You see how I spent my life. I have completely wasted it, * utterly enslaved to heinous sins and transgressions. * Now I, your sorry servant, run to you for asylum, * O Lady full of grace, and invoke your intercession. [GOASD]

Ode 8: Katavasia

Ode viii. Katavasia. Mode 1.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

This is it, the Day which is chosen and holy, * Day One of the Sabbaths. * It is the queen-day, the Lord’s Day, * and the Feast of all feasts, * and the Festival above every festival, * on which we extol Christ and bless Him to the ages. [GOASD]

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 2.

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]

Ode ix.

Canon for the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Heirmos.

Τὴν ὑπερφυῶς σαρκί.

You conceived within your womb extraordinarily * the Logos who outside time came forth from God the Father. * We faithful magnify you with our never silent hymns. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Let us praise all who proclaimed the resurrection of Christ, * yes, the Myrrh-bearing Women, the Disciples of the Lord, * and Joseph the respected member of the council as well. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O believers, let us sing, “Christ is risen from the dead,” * and honor the respected Joseph and Nikodemus * and the Myrrh-bearing Women, who were loyal to the Lord. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Jesse, celebrate at last. David, dance and leap for joy. * Behold, the holy Virgin, the Rod divinely planted, * has blossomed forth the Flower, even ever-living Christ. [GOASD]

Canon for the Apostle.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The heavens were astounded.

Ἐξέστη ἐπὶ τούτῳ.

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

We rightly praise and glorify blessed John, * the beloved disciple and instrument of most sublime * theology. Loyally he stood by * the cross of Christ, who trusted him, * since he was a virgin, to be the son * and guardian of His Mother, * the virgin Theotokos, * who is all-blameless and immaculate. [GOASD]

Apostle of Christ, intercede for us.

Glory.

Your chaste and spotless life was worthily loved * by the pure One, the Lord, who accepted you, O blessed John, * truly as a brother, for you had lived * your life on earth angelically. * Therefore He declared you to be the son * of His all-holy Mother, the Virgin Theotokos, * whom we extol with you and call you blest. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Lady, be for me a defensive wall, * that protects me from armies of demons and that keeps away * dangers and temptations besetting me, * repelling the persistant waves * of the sinfull passions assailing me. * And grant to me the freedom of purity, O Virgin, * and the abundant gifts of grace divine. [GOASD]

Ode 9: Katavasia

Ode ix. Katavasia. Mode 1.

The Angel cried aloud to the Lady full of grace: Rejoice, O pure Virgin; and again I say Rejoice. Your Son has truly risen from the grave on the third day.

Arise, shine! Arise, shine, O new Jerusalem! Shine! * For the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. * Zion, exult and be glad now. * O pure Mother of God, rejoice, celebrating * the resurrection of Christ your Son! [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. Let us in faith.

Τοῖς Μαθηταῖς συνέλθωμεν.

Theologizing you cried out, * that the Logos, the Word, was * in the beginning; and the Word * was with God; and the Logos was God, O John the Apostle. * When you fell on the bosom * of Christ the Logos, you imbibed * streams of life that were full of theology, * blessed Theologian, and with this godly * water you irrigate the world, * which today pays you honor. [SD]

For the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Automelon.

Γυναῖκες ἀκουτίσθητε.

O Women, hearken to the voice * that echoes with exultant joy. * Trampling on Hades, that tyrant, * I raised up all from corruption. * Run now with haste and tell my friends * good tidings as evangelists. * For I will that my creature see * joy distinctly arising * from woman, from whom came sorrow. [SD]

Lauds. Mode pl. 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.

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.

Hide Stichologia

Stichera. For the Evangelist.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. What a paradoxal.

Ὢ τοῦ παραδόξου.

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

Blessed and all-wise Evangelist, * in being loved by the Word * who sees all things and using just * scales will judge the universe, * you surpassed the Disciples all * in the abundance of your most ardent love * for Christ the Lord, O divine Apostle John; * for you were radiant * in both mind and body with the handsome traits * of purity and chastity, in being blest by God. [SD]

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

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

Let us now extol the most-divine St. John with spiritual songs * as a servant of Christ the King, * garland of virginity, and the luminous mouth of grace, * the habitation most worthy to receive * the divine virtues, the Church’s brightest eye; * and let us honor him * as the Holy Spirit’s sacred and divine * temple, and the instrument * of the wisdom of God. [SD]

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

John, when you leaned close upon the breast * of divine Wisdom himself, * you drew out as if from a well * waters of theology, and you watered the world with them. * And with the knowledge about the Trinity, * you dried the ocean of pagan godlessness; * you were an animate * pillar of both cloud and fire, guiding us * to the heavenly possession and inheritance. [SD]

Glory.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4.

O Evangelist John, peer of the Angels and Virgin, Theologian taught by God, you correctly proclaimed to the world the immaculate side, which spouted the blood and the water, whereby we obtain life eternal for our souls. [SD]

Both now. For the Myrrhbearers.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 1. Idiomelon.

The Women came with fear to the tomb, eager to anoint Your Body with spices. When they did not find it, they were at a loss and began to ask each other about it, for they did not yet know about the Resurrection. Then an Angel appeared to them and said, “Christ is risen, granting you the great mercy.” [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 2.

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.

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 Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, 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…”

According to the Patriarchal Hemerologion:

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

CHOIR: Amen.

or:

According to common practice:

PRIEST

Christ is risen from the dead, by death trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life.

PEOPLE

Truly the Lord is risen!