Books - Sources

Pentecostarion

Leave-taking of Mid-Pentecost

Menaion - May 21

Memory of Sts. Constantine and Helen

__________

MATINS

CHOIR

Mode pl. 4.

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

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

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

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

Apolytikion.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4.

O Lord, midway through the feast, give drink to my thirsty soul from the living waters of right belief. You, O Savior, proclaimed to everyone, “Let whoever is thirsty come to Me and drink.” You are the fountain of life, O Christ our God. Glory to You! [SD]

Glory. For the Equals-to-the-Apostles.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4.

Your Apostle among the Rulers, St. Constantine, who once beheld in the sky the image of Your Cross, and who like Paul received his calling not from man, once entrusted the Ruling City into Your hand. We entreat You to restore it in peace forever, at the intercession of the Theotokos, O only benevolent Lord. [SD]

Both now. For the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4.

O Lord, midway through the feast, give drink to my thirsty soul from the living waters of right belief. You, O Savior, proclaimed to everyone, “Let whoever is thirsty come to Me and drink.” You are the fountain of life, O Christ our God. Glory to You! [SD]

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Kathisma I.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 3. Your confession.

Θείας πίστεως.

You became a new David in manner. * You received the oil of the kingdom, * as an honor from heaven, upon your head. * The Lord and Logos transcending all essences * anointed you with the Spirit, O glorious one. * Therefore you received the scepter to rule, as one most wise. * And you entreat that we obtain the great mercy. [SD]

Glory. Both now. For the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Ταχὺ προκατάλαβε.

The Master who knows the thoughts that are in everyone’s hearts, * went up into the Temple and He stood and He taught, * and to the liars He spoke the truth. * “Tell Me, why are you seeking to arrest Me who give life?” * He said this about the middle of the feast in public. * “O transgressors of the Law, do not judge by appearances.” [GOASD]

Kathisma II.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2.

The Maker of the sun and all creation was led once to the Cross. And now to himself He leads you, the shining star, by stars from heaven. And to you first He bestowed imperial power. Therefore, O most pious emperor Constantine, we extol you and your mother Helen the godly-minded. [SD]

Glory. Both now. For the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 1. As the Father and Spirit.

Τὸν συνάναρχον Λόγον.

When He went to Jerusalem, the Master of all * went up into the Temple about the middle of the feast, * and He argued with the Jews, refuting them publicly, * and exposed their heavy handedness, as their King and God. * Whereas, in His loving-kindness, * He is granting great mercy to all of us who believe in Him. [GOASD]

Kathisma III.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Ταχὺ προκατάλαβε.

Your dignified memory has shone upon us today. * It brightens the universe with light of knowledge divine, * O God-inspired Constantine. * You among kings and rulers showed yourself to be pious, * for you obeyed the laws of the King of the heavens. * Therefore by your entreaties, from trials deliver us. [SD]

Glory. Both now. For the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the Wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

About the middle of the feast, You went up and stood * in the Temple, and taught. Finally You said, * “If any one thirst, let him come to Me and drink.” * “Whoever drinks this divine drink that I give will never thirst. * From his heart will My dogmas like rivers flow out of him. * Whoever believes in God the Father, who sent Me, * will truly be glorified together with Me by Him.” * And we therefore sing to You: * Glory be to You, Christ God! * To us Your servants You poured out abundantly * the waters of Your love for humanity. [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

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

CHOIR: Amen.

CHOIR

Antiphon 1.

Mode 4.

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

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

Glory.

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

Both now.

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

Prokeimenon. Psalms 88, 44.

I raised up a chosen one from My people. I found David My servant; I anointed him with My holy oil. (2)

Verse: Therefore God, Your God, anointed You.

I raised up a chosen one from My people. I found David My servant; I anointed him with My holy oil. [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. 10:9 – 16

The Lord said, “I am the door; if any one enters by me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hireling and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hireling and cares nothing for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my own and my own know me, as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. And I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will heed my voice. So there shall be one flock, one shepherd.” [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 God-crowned rulers, 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]

The memorial of Constantine the pious, like perfume that is poured out, has arisen today. He longed for Christ and therefore held the idols in contempt. On earth he erected a temple to the One who was crucified for us; while in heaven he received the crown of hope. [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; the holy, glorious, great, God-crowned Sovereigns Constantine and Helen, the Equals to the Apostles, whose memory we are celebrating; and all Your saints:

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy. (12)

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Ode 1: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

CHOIR

From Pentecostarion - - -

Ode i.

Canon 1 of Mid-Pentecost.

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. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

How great are the benefits of Your divine incarnation, O Lord, * as are the gifts of grace divine to us, * which have shone forth resplendently, * and the divine enlightenment that You so graciously pour out for us. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Appearing publicly at the middle of the feast, O Christ, You sent out * the rays of Your divinity to all. * And You now have indeed become * the cause of our salvation and for us the saved a bright and joyous feast. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Your body, when it was in the sepulcher, did not decay, O Lord. * It supernaturally did not submit * to the natural consequence * of putrefaction, as it was conceived without seed ineffably. [GOASD]

Ode 1: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

From the Pentecostarion. Canon 2.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. Lord, You congealed.

Θάλασσαν ἔπηξας.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Gentiles, applaud today, but unbelieving Jews, lament. * For Christ, the Giver of life, * has shattered the bars and gates of Hades. * He raised people who had died, * and by His word alone He cured diseases. * This is our God, who gives life to those who believe in His name. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Lord, You exhibited a miracle, changing water into wine, * as the One who turned the rivers into blood of old in Egypt; * and You did a second sign, by raising people who had died, O Savior. * Glory to Your ineffable plan! * Glory to Your self-emptying, by which You have made us new! [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You are the ever-flowing stream of true and everlasting life, O Lord; * You are our resurrection indeed. * Savior, when You were physically wearied, * willingly, You thirsted, thus submitting to the laws of nature. * So when You came to the city of Sychar, * You asked the woman of Samaria for water to drink. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Mother of God, you are the only woman with room for her Creator in her womb, * and you physically gave birth to Him ineffably, * and remained a Virgin still, * as nothing of your virtue was deflowered. * Pure one, we earnestly pray you never cease * ntreating your Son and God for us your flock forevermore. [GOASD]

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-1

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. Of old when the Israelite.

Ὑγρὰν διοδεύσας.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O Master and only heavenly King, * earnestly I beg You to deliver my humble soul * from the reign of sin that now constrains it, * at the entreaties of Your faithful servant kings. [SD]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

Becoming a lover of the divine * kingdom of the heavens, you believed in the King of all * and Master with purest mind and reason, * O blessed Constantine; therefore you worshiped Him. [SD]

Glory.

When you were illumined with the divine * light, O godly Helen, you decidedly left behind * the darkness of ignorance, and truly * unto the King of ages you ministered. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

As you are the gateway of the divine * Orient, O Lady Theotokos, open for me * the gates of repentance and deliver me * by your entreaties from the deadly gates of sin. [SD]

Ode 1: Katavasia

Ode i. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.

Lord, You congealed the sea and saved Your people, keeping them dry; * and then You threw into the deep prideful Pharaoh’s chariots and army. * Then to the mountain of Your holiness You brought Your people, who shouted, * “Let us sing a song of victory * to You, our God; for in battles You are powerful and strong.” [GOASD]

Ode 3: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

Ode iii.

Ode iii.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of Mid-Pentecost.

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.” [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You opened within the Church * the springs of vivifying water, O Christ. * Good Lord, You said, “Whoever thirsts * and is willing, come now to me and drink.” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You said that You must ascend * from earth to heaven, and You promised to send * from heaven to Your followers * the all-holy Spirit, O Christ our God. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Innately Giver of Life, * born of the Virgin was the merciful Lord. * He granted immortality * unto all who ever believe in Him. [GOASD]

Ode 3: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

From the Pentecostarion. Canon 2.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. My heart exults.

Ἐστερεώθη ἡ καρδία μου.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The Lord went up into the Temple about the middle * of the Feast of Booths, as it is written, * and He taught the Jewish people and said to them, * “Do not judge by mere appearances.” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Jewish people, now that Christ, who is the Redeemer * the Prophets said was to come from Zion, * truly came and is calling back the world to Him, * do not judge by mere appearances. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Jewish people, even though you do not believe Him, * believe the works of the Lord and Savior. * Why be led astray rejecting the Holy One, * of whom Prophet Moses wrote in the Law? [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

One of the Trinity, O Lord, You became incarnate * but did not alter Your divine essence, * being wholly God and fire, yet burning not * Your Mother’s wholly inviolate womb. [GOASD]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-1

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. O divine Master Builder.

Οὐρανίας ἁψῖδος.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

You made haste to obtain heavenly rewards for yourself. * Hence you followed after the One who called you and left behind * the darkness and the error of your forebears, becoming * a light by the Holy Spirit, O godly-minded one. [SD]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O all-modest Saint Helen, clinging to Christ you had placed * all your hope on Him when you traveled unto the Holy Lands, * where the supremely good Master, becoming incarnate, * suffered His immaculate Passion to save the world. [SD]

Glory.

All aflame with divine love, O woman blessed of God, * you unearthed the wood of the precious Cross of our Savior Christ, * the hope of Christians all, the saving weapon and trophy * that cannot be broken, that through envy was concealed. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

I have fallen, O Pure one, from a divine way of life, * and I have become like the cattle. And therefore I am now * condemned in every way. But you the just Judge’s mother, * save me and deliver me from condemnation all. [SD]

Ode 3: Katavasia

Ode iii. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.

My heart exults and in the Lord firmly is established; * and in my God is my horn exalted; * and my mouth is open wide at my enemies, and in Your salvation I rejoice. [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

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 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.

Secondary Kontakion

READER

Kontakion.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. You who were lifted.

The feast according to the Law at its midpoint, O Christ our God, as the Creator and Master of everything, You said to all those who were present there, “Come that you might draw from Me the water of immortality.” Hence with faith we cry to You as we prostrate before You. Your tender mercies grant to us, we pray. You are the fountain and source of our life, O Lord. [SD]

Oikos.

With the streams of Your blood, water my soul parched by unlawful offenses, and show it to be fruitful in virtue. For You have said to all, to approach You, all-holy Word of God, and to draw the water of incorruption, which is alive and washes away the sins of those who extol Your glorious and divine Resurrection. O Good One, You grant to those who know You as God the power of the Spirit that truly came down from on high to Your Disciples. You are the fountain and source of our life, O Lord. [SD]

Mid-Ode Kathisma or Hypakoe

CHOIR

Kathisma.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the Wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

When you lifted your senses toward the heights * and you studied the beauty of all the stars, * by them you were introduced to the Lord of the universe. * For the shield of the Cross shone resplendently in their midst; * there inscribed was the message, “In this be victorious.” * Therefore as the vision of your soul was awakened, * you read what was spelled out there, and you learned what you ought to do. * All-august St. Constantine, * intercede with Christ our God, * that He grant forgiveness of offenses * to us who celebrate your holy memory with faith and love. [SD]

Glory. Both now. For the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the Wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

You pour out to the world the water of life * and of wisdom, O Savior, and You invite * all people to draw the drink of salvation, O Master. * For indeed when a person adheres to the Law of God, * they extinguish the coals of deception in doing so; * also they will never thirst nor ever be lacking * their fill of Your grace divine, O heavenly King and Lord. * And therefore we glorify * Your mighty power, Christ our God, * and we pray that You send down abundantly * to us Your faithful servants forgiveness of sins. [GOASD]

Ode 4: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

Ode iv.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of Mid-Pentecost.

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!” [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

When You broke the gates of death by Your strength, You made known * the ways of everlasting life, Savior, and You opened * gates to immortality, * for those who cry out to You: * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

In Your hands You hold the whole world, its beginning, * its middle, and its end, O Lord who have no beginning. * At the middle of the feast, * You taught, “You of godly mind, * come enjoy the gifts of God!” [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

You distribute grace abundantly to your servants, * who praise you and your Son who is the pre-eternal Logos. * O all-immaculate, * ever-virgin Mother, pray * for the forgiveness of their sins. [GOASD]

Ode 4: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

From the Pentecostarion. Canon 2.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. With his spiritual eyes.

Ὁ Προφήτης Ἀββακούμ.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The Messiah has to come, and the Messiah is Christ. * O transgressors, why then do you not believe in Him? * Behold, He has come to you, and what He does bears witness to Him. * He turned the water into wine * and healed the Paralytic by His word. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Jewish people who transgress the Law of God, you are wrong, * understanding not the Scriptures; for the Christ has come, * and He has illumined all; and to you He has shown and performed * many signs and miracles. * In vain you reject Him who is life indeed. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

“You all marvel at the one deed that I did,” answered Christ, * when the Jewish people in the Temple questioned Him. * He said, “On the sabbath you accept to circumcise a man; * so why criticize Me who raised * the Paralytic by word alone?” [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Virgin Mother, without limiting Him, God was contained * in your womb, immaculate, all-holy Bride of God. * We pray that you never cease to intercede on our behalf, * so that through you we may be saved * from distress, for we rely on you. [GOASD]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-1

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. N/M (I have heard.)

Εἰσακήκοα Κύριε.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O Constantine, Christ the Lord caught you in his net from heaven, like He did Paul of old, and He taught you to worship Him as the only King. [SD]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

Christ the Sun, using stars, shined a very bright sign on you, O blessed Saint, and He made of you a luminary for those who were in darkness. [SD]

Glory.

O blessed Helen, you were God-loving in manner and admirable in your godly deeds. Therefore we faithfully glorify you. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Ever-virgin, who gave birth to the Sun of Righteousness, shine light into my soul, for my transgressions have darkened it. [SD]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Ode iv. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.

With his spiritual eyes, the Prophet Habakkuk saw * in the future Your appearance on the earth, O Lord. * And therefore he cried out and said that God from Theman will surely come. * Glory to Your glory, O Christ! * Glory to Your condescension, O Lord! [GOASD]

Ode 5: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

Ode v.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of Mid-Pentecost.

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. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O godly-minded faithful, we are at the midpoint today * between Pentecost and Pascha. * Let us strive for perfection of godly virtue eagerly. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

How sacred is this feast! It is glowing with splendid light * from both Pentecost and Pascha, * for is stands in the middle of these the greatest festivals. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The Archangel’s mind was unable to understand * Your ineffable, all-immaculate birth from the Virgin, * O Savior very merciful. [GOASD]

Ode 5: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

From the Pentecostarion. Canon 2.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. O Lord our God, give peace.

Κύριε ὁ Θεὸς ἡμῶν.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

When You equipped Your holy Apostles with miracles, * You magnified Your Disciples with marvelous signs, * Savior, and You glorified them throughout the world, * and You gave to them Your kingdom and rule. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Savior, equipped with teachings and with mighty miracles, * using various methods, Your Disciples went * to all the ends of the world and enlightened it * and preached the Gospel of Your kingdom, O Christ. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Lord, we send up a song to praise Your rule, and offer up * hymns to extol and worship You, who for our sake * came to earth. O Savior, You enlightened the world, * and You restored our father Adam to life. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Mother of God, the holy table once prefigured you, * for in your virgin womb was the heavenly bread, * of which all who eat shall not die, as Jesus said, * being the Lord who feeds the universe. [GOASD]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-1

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. N/M (We rise at early morn.)

Ὀρθρίζοντες βοῶμέν σοι.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O divinely wise Emperor, you woke up to the never-setting Sun and Master, and you were filled with light. [SD]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O Helen, with love and perfect sympathy as as garment of royal purple, you are dwelling in the royal courts on high. [SD]

Glory.

O Helen, you served God by your virtuous deeds. Now you join the choirs of the bodiless hosts. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Virgin, purify my soul, for it is defiled by the pleasures of the body, through the spite of the serpent. [SD]

Ode 5: Katavasia

Ode v. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.

O Lord our God, give peace to us, for You have rendered all. * O Lord our God, we pray, take possession of us. * Lord, O Lord, we do not know any other God except for You, and we name Your name. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

Ode vi.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of Mid-Pentecost.

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. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Today we observe the sacred feast of Mid-Pentecost. * It is illumined on one side * by the most divine light of holy Pascha, * on the other, it is aglow with grace of the Comforter. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Christ, when You went up into the Temple in Jerusalem, * You spoke to the Jewish people, * hiding Your innate glory, while disclosing * natural kinship with God the Father who had begotten You. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O only Theotokos, I pray you to be for me * an unassailable fortress, * to protect and save me from worldly scandals, * and to brighten and illumine my soul with the light of God. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

From the Pentecostarion. Canon 2.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The troubles of my life.

Ὡς ὕδατα θαλάσσης.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Lord who made and care for the universe, * You went to the Temple in Jerusalem * about the middle of the feast, O Jesus, * and taught the word of truth to the crowd of people, * as it is written by John. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Master, when You opened Your lips and taught, * You told the world the truth of the Trinity: * the eternal Father and the Holy Spirit * and You who even after Your incarnation * are consubstantial with both. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Savior, You completed Your Father’s work. * You verified Your words by the works You did, * performing many miracles, signs, and wonders. * You healed the Paralytic and cured the lepers * and resurrected the dead. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

We praise and glorify you, O Bride of God, * the virgin Mother, who after childbirth * alone remained a pure and all-holy virgin. * For truly from you God became incarnate, * and He brought us back to life. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-1

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. I pour out my supplication.

Τὴν δέησιν ἐκχεῶ.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O Constantine, * you assembled the blessed * congregation of the God-bearing fathers, * in an extraordinary Council; and through them * you gave support to the wavering hearts of all, * that they should glorify the Word, * who is one with His Father in honor and rule. [GOASD]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O Helen, * once you believed in the living * Lord of all, who gives existence to all things, * you put away former pagan traditions * and the contemptible idols that profit not * but rather deaden; and instead * you accepted the heavenly kingdom with joy. [GOASD]

Glory.

O Logos, * the pious sainted emperors, * being governed by Your hand, had departed * from the confusion of pagan religion * and from the absolute darkness of ignorance. * Through You they ruled, and they were led * to the haven of Orthodoxy joyfully. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Maiden, * heal my heart, which is wounded * by the devil’s poison sting and is ailing * and is incurable, all-holy Virgin. * Give me the cure that you have, O immaculate one. * And save me, who rely on you, * by your prayers to your Son on behalf of all. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Katavasia

Ode vi. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.

The troubles of my life are like storms at sea, * O Logos, and the waves are afflicting me. * I cry to You, as once did the Prophet Jonah, * to raise my life from corruption, O only Lord and compassionate God. [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

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Principal Kontakion and Synaxarion

From Menaion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode 3. On this day.

Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον.

On this day St. Constantine along with Helen his mother * have displayed the Cross, that tree worthy of all veneration. * Lifted up, it contradicts its Jewish detractors * and defends all faithful rulers from adversaries. * And for us it has been proven to be a great sign, * inspiring awe in war. [GOASD]

Oikos.

O believers, let us honor Constantine and his mother Helen. They heard to the words of the Prophet Isaiah, “with the cypress, the pine, and the cedar,” and they understood them as referring to the Cross, which was composed of three types of wood and which was the instrument of the saving Passion. It had been hidden because of jealousy and denial, but they found it. They made preparations to display it, and they summoned all the Jews there, and they showed the people this major vindication. And thus everyone saw them as victors, holding the unassailable shield, a great sign, inspiring awe in war. [GOASD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On May 21 we commemorate the holy, glorious, God-crowned and great Sovereigns Constantine and Helen, the Equals to the Apostles.

The holy Neo-martyr Pachomios, who witnessed in Ousaki, Philadelphia, died by the sword.

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

Ode 7: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

CHOIR

Ode vii.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of Mid-Pentecost.

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.” [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Savior, destroying * the might of death by Your omnipotence, * You made known the path of life unto humankind; * and with gratitude we sing to You, * “In the temple of Your holy glory, You are blessed, O Lord.” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The Jewish people * saw You in flesh and did not recognize * that You were indeed the Logos and Son of God. * As for us, we sing extolling You, * “In the temple of Your holy glory, You are blessed, O Lord.” [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Rejoice, O hallowed * and divine tabernacle of God Most High! * Theotokos, joy was given through you to us, * who with gratitude cry out to you, * “O all-blameless Lady, among women you are blessed indeed.” [GOASD]

Ode 7: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

From the Pentecostarion. Canon 2.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. All ablaze.

Τῶν Χαλδαίων ἡ κάμινος.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

As the Lord who gives rest to all and the wellspring of wonders, * You were physically tired and You willingly were thirsty. * O Jesus, who promise all the living water, You sat and asked for water to drink. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You conversed with a woman of Samaria, O Master, * pointing out the folly of the unlawful Jewish people. * The woman believed in You as truly the Son of God, but they rejected You. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You, O Savior, the ever-flowing, living wellspring, promised * to give living water flowing immortality’s water * to all who with faith receive Your Holy Spirit, who from the Father alone proceeds. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

In your womb you contained the boundless and infinite Logos. * With your breasts you nursed the Maker and Feeder of the whole world. * In you arms you held the Lord who provides for us, O immaculate Mother of God. [GOASD]

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-1

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. N/M (Servants, descendants.)

Παῖδες Ἑβραίων.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O Lord, Constantine kept Your commandments and submitted to Your law. Thus he brought down the armies of those who rejected Your law, and he cried to You: Blessed are You, O God. [SD]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O praiseworthy Helen, you uncovered for us the Wood, which drew humanity out of the pit of perdition. It had been buried through envy, and now it buries the destructive demons, unto the ages. [SD]

Glory.

O Helen, with godly deeds you constructed your heart to be a temple of God. You also erected sacred churces for Him, on the sites where He physically endured His immaculate Passion for us. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O all-holy Theotokos, I willfully sin, and I am enslaved to vile habits. Now I run to your habitual sympathy. Save me, for I am desparate. [SD]

Ode 7: Katavasia

Ode vii. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.

All ablaze with a raging fire was the Chaldean furnace, * through which blew a dew-laden breeze at God’s almighty order. * The three holy Servants sang, * “You are the God of our fathers, and blessed are You.” [GOASD]

Ode 8: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

Ode viii.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of Mid-Pentecost.

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.” [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You rose from the sepulcher, O Lord, with the Divinity’s glory adorning You, * and You, O Master, were beautiful. * You appeared to Your Apostles and You promised them that You would send * the Spirit’s power to those who cry out, * “Bless the Lord and praise Him, all you works of the Lord.” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

As God You put death and hell to death, * and as the Source of life, You poured out unto all * eternal life, which the grace and charm * of the present and most splendid days we celebrate from year to year * depict distinctly to those who cry out, * “Bless the Lord and praise Him, all you works of the Lord.” [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

A scepter and ruler from the tribe of Judah clearly have departed. And behold, * all-blameless Virgin, the Son you bore * is the One who was in store for them, * the expectation of the Gentiles, Christ, to whom we sing extolling, * “Bless the Lord and praise Him, all you works of the Lord.” [GOASD]

Ode 8: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

From the Pentecostarion. Canon 2.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. Angels and you heavens.

Ἄγγελοι καὶ οὐρανοί.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

All you peoples, come and see Him, who is praised as King upon His glorious throne, * being blasphemed by people who transgress the Law. * And seeing this, extol Him, whom the Prophets had foretold was the Messiah. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You are Christ indeed, the One who from on high descended and came into this world. * Salvation and forgiveness of ancestral sins * come from You, our Redeemer. * You are life indeed for all those who have believed You. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

About the middle of the feast, as it is written, the very Wisdom of God * went up into the Temple; and He stood and taught * that He himself is truly * the Messiah, the Christ, through whom there is salvation. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Tell us: How did you give birth to Him who shone forth from the Father before all time, * and with the Holy Spirit is extolled by all? * Only He who was well pleased to be born of you can explain, O Theotokos. [GOASD]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-1

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. N/M (The tyrant king.)

Ἑπταπλασίως κάμινον.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O glorious Constantine, you clothed yourself in graciousness as in royal purple, and in good compassion as in a mantle. You were crowned with a mind perfected in the virtue. And thus you were translated from earth to the royal courts on high, where now you sing: O priests, bless Christ; O people, highly exalt Him, unto the ages. [SD]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O glorious Helen, as we see you rejoicing with your godly-minded son in the royal courts of God, we magnify Christ, who has shown us your august feast, which guides us to the light with rays brighter than the sun, as we faithfully sing: O people, highly exalt Christ, unto the ages. [SD]

Glory.

O glorious Helen, the boast of women! How marvelous was your longing! How inspired was your manner! When you arrived at the places that hosted the august Passion of the Master of all, you adorned them with beautiful churches, and you sang: O people, highly exalt Christ, unto the ages. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Theotokos, the eyes of my soul have become blind because of my many transgressions. I pray you, restore their sight. And give peace to my mind, and to my heart, which is agitated by various pleasures. And save me who am singing now: O priests, bless Christ; O people, highly exalt Him, unto the ages. [SD]

Ode 8: Katavasia

Ode viii. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Angels and you heavens, bless Him who as King is carried on a glorious throne, * and who as God is glorified unceasingly. * Ever bless and extol Him, and exalt Him beyond measure unto all the ages. [GOASD]

Kontakia and Synaxarion

READER

Kontakion.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. You who were lifted.

The feast according to the Law at its midpoint, O Christ our God, as the Creator and Master of everything, You said to all those who were present there, “Come that you might draw from Me the water of immortality.” Hence with faith we cry to You as we prostrate before You. Your tender mercies grant to us, we pray. You are the fountain and source of our life, O Lord. [SD]

Oikos.

With the streams of Your blood, water my soul parched by unlawful offenses, and show it to be fruitful in virtue. For You have said to all, to approach You, all-holy Word of God, and to draw the water of incorruption, which is alive and washes away the sins of those who extol Your glorious and divine Resurrection. O Good One, You grant to those who know You as God the power of the Spirit that truly came down from on high to Your Disciples. You are the fountain and source of our life, O Lord. [SD]

Kontakion. For the Equals-to-the-Apostles.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 3. On this day.

Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον.

On this day St. Constantine along with Helen his mother * have displayed the Cross, that tree worthy of all veneration. * Lifted up, it contradicts its Jewish detractors * and defends all faithful rulers from adversaries. * And for us it has been proven to be a great sign, * inspiring awe in war. [GOASD]

Oikos.

O believers, let us honor Constantine and his mother Helen. They heard to the words of the Prophet Isaiah, “with the cypress, the pine, and the cedar,” and they understood them as referring to the Cross, which was composed of three types of wood and which was the instrument of the saving Passion. It had been hidden because of jealousy and denial, but they found it. They made preparations to display it, and they summoned all the Jews there, and they showed the people this major vindication. And thus everyone saw them as victors, holding the unassailable shield, a great sign, inspiring awe in war. [GOASD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On May 21 we commemorate the holy, glorious, God-crowned and great Sovereigns Constantine and Helen, the Equals to the Apostles.

The holy Neo-martyr Pachomios, who witnessed in Ousaki, Philadelphia, died by the sword.

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

Katavasias Odes 1-8

CHOIR

Katavasias of Mid-Pentecost

Ode i. Mode pl. 4.

Lord, You congealed the sea and saved Your people, keeping them dry; * and then You threw into the deep prideful Pharaoh’s chariots and army. * Then to the mountain of Your holiness You brought Your people, who shouted, * “Let us sing a song of victory * to You, our God; for in battles You are powerful and strong.” [GOASD]

Ode iii.

My heart exults and in the Lord firmly is established; * and in my God is my horn exalted; * and my mouth is open wide at my enemies, and in Your salvation I rejoice. [GOASD]

Ode iv.

With his spiritual eyes, the Prophet Habakkuk saw * in the future Your appearance on the earth, O Lord. * And therefore he cried out and said that God from Theman will surely come. * Glory to Your glory, O Christ! * Glory to Your condescension, O Lord! [GOASD]

Ode v.

O Lord our God, give peace to us, for You have rendered all. * O Lord our God, we pray, take possession of us. * Lord, O Lord, we do not know any other God except for You, and we name Your name. [GOASD]

Ode vi.

The troubles of my life are like storms at sea, * O Logos, and the waves are afflicting me. * I cry to You, as once did the Prophet Jonah, * to raise my life from corruption, O only Lord and compassionate God. [GOASD]

Ode vii.

All ablaze with a raging fire was the Chaldean furnace, * through which blew a dew-laden breeze at God’s almighty order. * The three holy Servants sang, * “You are the God of our fathers, and blessed are You.” [GOASD]

Ode viii.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Angels and you heavens, bless Him who as King is carried on a glorious throne, * and who as God is glorified unceasingly. * Ever bless and extol Him, and exalt Him beyond measure unto all 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 9: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

Ode ix.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of Mid-Pentecost.

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. [GOASD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

We have learned from Christ our Teacher a new and holy way of living. * Let us be especially zealous to persevere and preserve it to the end, * so that we may experience the Holy Spirit when He comes to us.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Life-giver, assuming my mortal nature, You rendered it immortal, * and by grace You made it imperishable, O Savior, and raised it with yourself; * ending the age old enmity, unto the Father You presented it. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Root, source, and cause of incorruption are You, O Virgin; and we faithful * honor you by aptly employing these words and images when extolling you. * For you poured out to all of us the hypostatic immortality. [GOASD]

Ode 9: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

From the Pentecostarion. Canon 2.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. Virginity is a state.

Ἀλλότριον τῶν μητέρων.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

About the middle of the Jews’ feast of Tabernacles, * O Savior, You went up into Your holy Temple. * As You taught all the people, the Jews marveled at it, saying, * “This man has never studied, so how * is it that he has learning?” they asked. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

As my Redeemer was performing great signs and wonders * and pouring out divine gifts, many cures and healings, * and was curing the people, relieving many of diseases, * the Jewish leaders became furious * about His many miracles. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

When my Redeemer refuted the Jewish leaders, * who were disobedient, He answered them, saying, * “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment. * The Law commands that on the Sabbath day * a man ought to be circumcised.” [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Within your womb, you contained Christ, O Virgin Mother. * He is one of the Trinity, Giver of life, and Savior. * All creation extols Him. In His presence hosts in heaven tremble. * O Lady blessed by all, implore Him for us, * entreating Him to save our souls. [GOASD]

Ode 9: Menaion: Canon-1

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The heavens were astounded.

Ἐξέστη ἐπὶ τούτῳ.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

The tomb wherein your sacred and precious corpse * lies, O Constantine, surges continually with divine * lightning flashes and the resplendent rays * of cures for every malady unto all who draw near with ardent faith. * It drives away the darkness; * and by its never-setting * luster illumines those who sing your praise. [SD]

Saints of God, intercede for us.

In saintliness you finished your earthly life. * You have now gone to dwell with the other saints, for you abound * with illumination and holiness. * And therefore you continually * overflow with rivers of cures for all. * You wash away the passions, * O blessed Saint Eleni, * and you refresh our souls with holy drink. [SD]

Glory.

Eternally beginningless sovereign King, * You have granted to Saint Helen and to Constantine the Great * kingly rule in heaven, as in the past * You once permitted them to reign * as Orthodox Emperors on the earth, * for they sincerely loved You. * And by their intercessions * on all have mercy, O immortal Lord. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Virgin, you conceived the immortal King * and Creator of all, and gave birth to Him. And now behold, * you stand at His right hand, even as Queen * such as you are. And therefore, O pure one, importunely do I entreat: * Redeem me from the portion * on the left, and include me * among the right-hand sheep on Judgement Day. [SD]

Ode 9: Katavasia

Ode ix. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.

Virginity is a state alien to mothers, * and childbirth is foreign to those who are virgins. * But in you, Theotokos, have both of these been accomplished. * Indeed all generations everywhere * now call you blessed evermore. [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

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 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 Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 3. Having embellished heaven.

O Lord, You have the chalice * that never empties of Your gifts. * Please let me draw from Your water, * unto forgiveness of my sins, * for I am very thirsty, * only merciful compassionate Savior. [GOASD]

For the Equals-to-the-Apostles.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. Let us in faith.

Τοῖς Μαθηταῖς συνέλθωμεν.

The great and holy Constantine * with his mother St. Helen * did not receive imperial * rule and dominion from men * but by divine grace from heaven. * He is the one who witnessed * the divine trophy of the Cross * shining above, and by it he crushed the foes, * ending the deceptive ruse of the idols; * and he confirmed the Orthodox * faith as a world religion. [SD]

For the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 3. Having embellished heaven.

O Lord, You have the chalice * that never empties of Your gifts. * Please let me draw from Your water, * unto forgiveness of my sins, * for I am very thirsty, * only merciful compassionate Savior. [GOASD]

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

Stichera for the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. To a brave one.

Ὡς γενναῖον ἐν Μάρτυσι.

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

When the Father’s personified * Wisdom, Power, and Radiance, * the eternal Logos, the very Son of God, * went to the Temple and there appeared * in flesh and began to teach * the ungrateful and severe * Jewish populace at the feast, * they were marveling * at the wealth of His knowledge, and they cried out, “How does this man have such learning, * since he was not taught by anyone?” [GOASD]

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

The Messiah and Lord of all * stopped the mouths of the Jewish scribes, * and He reprimanded the Jews who did not keep * the Law, and said, “Do not judge by mere appearances, but with just * judgment. For example, I * healed a man who was paralyzed, on the Sabbath day. * Therefore I am the Lord of both the Sabbath and the Law. O unjust people, * why seek to kill Me who raised the dead?” [GOASD]

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

The severe and iniquitous * and ungrateful community * of the Jews were ready to stone Moses of old. * They killed Isaiah by sawing him * in two with a wooden saw. * They imprisoned in a pit * Jeremiah the holy sage. * Finally the Lord * they had crucified, and they shouted, “You who would destroy the holy Temple, * we will believe if you save yourself.” [GOASD]

For the Equals-to-the-Apostles.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. What a paradoxal.

Ὢ τοῦ παραδόξου.

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

Full of wisdom, Constantine, rejoice! * The well of Orthodox Faith, * that has watered in every age * the entire universe * with its waters most sweet, rejoice! * Glorious root, out of which has burgeoned forth * the fruit that feeds the entire Church of Christ, * you are the pride and joy * of the fathers; O rejoice! You are the first * of all Christian emperors. * Rejoice, believers’ joy! [SD]

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

He who rules over creation all, * O all-wise Ruler, foresaw * the obedience of your heart, * and through reason captured you * when unreason was ruling you; * and He illumined your thoughts and reasoning * with certain knowledge of Orthodox belief; * glorious Constantine, * to the world He showed you as a shining sun, * radiating brilliant beams * of godly words and deeds. [SD]

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

Full of wisdom, Helen, praised by all, when you accepted the Lord’s * saving teachings, like chosen earth * you abundantly produced * many fruits of your virtuous deeds. * And by displaying a holy way of life * for imitation, you thereby feed our minds. * Therefore we celebrate * your divine memorial, O royal Saint, * festively observing it today with heightened joy. [SD]

Glory.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4.

The King of kings and God, who adorns the worthy with abundant gifts, caught you in His net, through the sign of the Cross, like He did to Paul the glorious, O Constantine. He said to you, “In this sign conquer your enemies.” Thus having sought Him, as did your godly-minded mother, and having found Him for whom you longed, you utterly defeated them. In company with your mother, earnestly pray for Orthodox rulers, and the Christ-loving armed forces, and all of us who loyally observe your memory, entreating our only benevolent Lord, to deliver us from all wrath. [SD]

Both now. For the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4.

We were illumined, O brethren, by the Resurrection of Christ the Savior. And now we have reached the middle of the feast of the Lord. Let us sincerely keep the commandments of God, so that we may become worthy to celebrate the Ascension as well, and witness the coming of the Holy Spirit. [SD]

Stand for the Great Doxology.

Great Doxology