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Menaion - June 24

The Birth of the Holy Forerunner

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MATINS

CHOIR

Mode 4.

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

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

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

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

Apolytikion.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Ταχὺ προκατάλαβε.

O Prophet and Forerunner of the appearance of Christ, * with longing we honor you, although we have not the means * of extolling you worthily. * Your birth, which was exalted * and most glorious, ended * the barrenness of your mother and the muteness of your father; * and unto the world it announced * the Incarnation of God the Word. [SD]

Glory. Repeat.

Both now. Theotokion.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 4.

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

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 7. 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 Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.

Unto us now has the son * of Zacharias been born, * and he mystically gives joy * to the believers’ minds. * He is the desert’s ornament, and the pedestal of the Prophets. * And thus did he become * the Forerunner * who testifies the truth * of the coming of Christ. * So let us cry aloud unto the Baptist * singing in unison spiritual songs: * O intercede for our salvation, * Prophet and Herald of the truth. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 4. Automelon.

Joseph marveled when he saw that which transcends nature’s laws: * You conceived without the seed of man, O Mother of God. * Then he remembered the dew on the fleece of Gideon, * the bush that Moses saw burning yet not consumed, * and Aaron’s rod that sprouted and blossomed forth. * And your betrothed and guardian bore witness * before the priests, and he cried aloud, * “The Virgin gives birth, and after childbirth * still she remains a virgin.” [SD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 8. Then the short litany.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR

To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Amen.

CHOIR

Kathisma II.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the Wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

You were born in a truly uncommon way * as the first-fruits of the appearance of Christ, * O John, praised in all the world, * and the paramount of Prophets. * And as you were the voice of the Logos you cried aloud: * Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is nigh at hand. * Hence did you prepare the way of the Master, * becoming the Forerunner * of divine grace to all the world, * O Apostle and Baptist John. * Intercede with Christ our God * that He grant forgiveness of offenses * to those who with longing observe your holy memory. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the Wisdom.

Holy Virgin and Mother of Christ our God, * I entreat you most earnestly now to cure * the passions that grieve my soul, * and to grant me forgiveness * for the sins and offenses * that I committed mindlessly, * thus polluting my body, * wretched one that I am. * Oh! and how I shudder * at the thought of that hour * when Angels will separate * my soul from my body. * Then, alas! what shall become of me? * O Lady, hence I pray you will come* to my aid as an ardent patron then. * For I your unworthy servant * have you as my only hope. [SD]

The Polyeleos.

Psalm 134 (135).

Psalm 135 (136).

Selected Psalm Verses

Selected Psalm Verses for the Feast of the Holy Forerunner

The man who fears the Lord Alleluia.

1. Blessed is the man who fears the Lord; he will delight exceedingly in His commandments. Alleluia. (111:1) [SAAS]

2. His seed shall be mighty on earth. His righteousness continues unto ages of ages. Alleluia. (111:2) [SAAS]

3. For the upright, light springs up in darkness. Alleluia. (111:4) [SAAS]

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

5. His horn shall be exalted with glory. Alleluia. (111:9) [SAAS]

6. Now the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord. Alleluia. (36:39) [SAAS]

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

8. The righteous man shall be glad in the Lord, and shall hope in Him. Alleluia. (63:11) [SAAS]

9. The Lord swore to David this truth, and He shall not reject it. Alleluia. (131:11) [SAAS]

10. I shall set upon your throne one from the fruit of your loins. Alleluia. (131:11) [SAAS]

11. There I shall cause to spring up a horn for David; there I prepared a lamp for my anointed. Alleluia. (131:17) [SAAS]

12. Behold, I fled far away, and lodged in the wilderness. Alleluia. (54:8) [SAAS]

13. I have become like a pelican in a desert; I have become like an owl in a ruined house. Alleluia. (101:7) [SAAS]

14. I kept watch, and have become like a sparrow alone on a housetop. Alleluia. (101:8) [SAAS]

15. My knees were weak from fasting, and my flesh was changed because of the oil. Alleluia. (108:24) [SAAS]

16. He who walks blamelessly, and works righteousness. Alleluia. (14:2) [SAAS]

17. And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High. Alleluia. (Ode 9b:8) [RSV]

18. For you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways. Alleluia. (Ode 9b:8) [RSV]

19. To give knowledge of salvation to his people. Alleluia. (Ode 9b:9) [RSV]

20. In the forgiveness of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God. Alleluia. (Ode 9b:9) [RSV]

21. I held to hard ways because of the words of Your lips. Alleluia. (16:4) [SAAS]

22. I declared Your truth and Your salvation. Alleluia. (39:11) [SAAS]

23. I did not hide Your mercy and Your truth from the great congregation. Alleluia. (39:11) [SAAS]

24. I said to those who transgress the law, “Do not transgress the law,” and to those who sin I said, “Do not exalt yourselves.” Alleluia. (74:5) [SAAS]

25. Behold, I shall not restrain my lips, O Lord, You know. Alleluia. (39:10) [SAAS]

26. And my tongue shall meditate on Your righteousness, and on Your praise all the day long. Alleluia. (34:28) [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 to us Your tender mercies, O Christ, * so that we may glorify * You, the hope of our souls, O Lord. [SD]

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

CHOIR

Kathisma III.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. When he perceived.

Τὸ προσταχθέν.

Exult, O father; and mother, now be joyous. * For you gave birth today on earth unto the Prophet * who by God is called Forerunner, even as was promised. * The barren one now is nursing her newborn babe * the Baptist; while Zacharias is overjoyed * by the childbirth, and says: “My tongue * has by your childbirth been loosed, * O Lamp of the great Light. This indeed * is a marvelous miracle.” [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

When he perceived what had secretly been ordered, * to the abode of Joseph urgently reported * the unbodied one saying unto the Unwedded: * “The Lord who has bowed the heavens in His descent, * in you is contained completely and without change; * and beholding Him in your womb * taking the form of a slave, * astounded I cry out to you: * Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.” [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. Ode ix.

And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways. (2)

Verse: Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people.

And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways. [RSV]

Stand for the Gospel reading.

DEACON: Let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Mode 2.

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

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Wisdom. Arise. Let us hear the holy Gospel.

PRIEST: Peace be with all.

CHOIR: And with your spirit.

PRIEST

The reading is from the holy Gospel according to Luke.

DEACON: Let us be attentive.

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

PRIEST (from the gate)

Lk. 1:24 – 25, 57 – 68, 76, 80

At that time, Elizabeth, the wife of Zacharias, conceived, and for five months hid herself, saying, “Thus the Lord has done to me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.” Now the time came for Elizabeth to be delivered, and she gave birth to a son. And her neighbors and kinsfolk heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they would have named him Zacharias after his father, but his mother said, “Not so; he shall be called John.” And they said to her, “None of your kindred is called by this name.” And they made signs to his father, inquiring what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, “His name is John.” And they all marveled. And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God. And fear came on all their neighbors. And all these things were talked about through all the hill country of Judea; and all who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, “What then will this child be?” For the hand of the Lord was with him. And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying, “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people. And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways.” And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness till the day of his manifestation to Israel. [RSV]

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

READER

Psalm 50 (51).

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

From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Glory. Mode 2.

At the intercession of Your Forerunner, 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 who was sanctified from his mother’s womb, and who received the fullness of prophecy, was born today from a barren woman. He is distinctly proclaiming the coming of the Lord, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [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, whose Birth we celebrate; the holy, glorious, and praiseworthy apostles, our fathers among the saints, the great hierarchs and ecumenical teachers Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom; Athanasius, Cyril, and John the Merciful, patriarchs of Alexandria, Nicholas, bishop of Myra, Spyridon, bishop of Trimythous, Nektarios of Pentapolis, the wonderworkers; the holy, glorious, great martyrs George the triumphant, Demetrios the myrrh-streamer, Theodore the soldier, and Theodore the general; Menas the wonderworker; Charalampus and Eleutherius, the hieromartyrs; the holy, glorious, and victorious martyrs; the glorious great Martyr and all-laudable Euphemia; the holy and glorious Martyrs Thecla, Barbara, Anastasia, Catherine, Kyriaki, Photini, Marina, Paraskevi and Irene; our venerable and God-bearing fathers; (local patron saint); the holy and righteous ancestors of God Joachim and Anna; and all Your saints:

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy. (12)

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Ode i.

Canon 1 for the Forerunner.

Heirmos. Mode 4.

Τριστάτας κραταιούς.

I pray You to submerge * in the sea of dispassion * the three powers of my soul, * like those powerful hosts. * And then using the deadening * of my body for a timbrel, * I may sing a triumphal hymn * unto You who born of the Virgin pure. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

As the dawn that precedes the Sun, ⁄ the offspring of barren parents clearly proclaims the Virgin’s conceiving. ⁄ He makes the enlightenment of grace and godliness ⁄ shine to the ends of the world! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

You shall truly be called the prophet of the Most High, ⁄ for you shall go before the face of Christ. ⁄ Zachariah, transported by the Spirit said to you, his son: ⁄ you shall go before the Creator to prepare His way ⁄ all-praised John. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

When he heard the words of the divine message of Gabriel, ⁄ Zachariah was seen to be disobedient. ⁄ He was condemned to silence, ⁄ but he was loosed suddenly from this silence, ⁄ for John, the Voice and Forerunner of the Word had been born. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Spotless Theotokos: ⁄ the City of God, the King of all, ⁄ the pure and divine receiver, ⁄ ever guard your inheritance which praises you, ⁄ honoring your childbearing with faith. [OCA]

Canon 2 for the Forerunner.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. I open my mouth.

Ἀνοίξω τὸ στόμα μου.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Enhanced by the Spirit’s grace, * the Church is gaily adorned today. * And beaming with utter joy, * she beautifies herself, * as she celebrates * the feast of John the Baptist’s * Nativity cheerfully, * singing resoundingly. [SD]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The Herald of grace who is * brighter himself than the morning star * discloses the Sun of glory by his birth today. * And he now proclaims * the Sun’s illumination * that will brightly shine upon * the ends of all the earth. [SD]

Glory.

The dark night of godlessness * is by your birth, holy Forerunner, * dispelled and expelled from earth. * And now the rays of grace * over all the world * are spreading. For, O Prophet, * you proclaim the rising of * the never-setting Sun. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

The barren one’s pregnancy, * O Virgin pure and immaculate, * betokens the knowledge of * your own conceiving as well. * And it signifies * and presages your childbirth * without seed. For it produced * fruit from a fruitless womb. [SD]

Ode 1: Katavasia

Ode i. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

From Menaion - - -

Ode iii.

Canon 1 for the Forerunner.

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 4.

Οὐκ ἐν σοφίᾳ.

We do not boast in wisdom, strength and wealth, ⁄ but in you, O Christ, in Person the Wisdom of the Father, ⁄ for none is holy but You, Lover of mankind! (2) [OCA]

Troparia.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The Master’s birth is from a Virgin, ⁄ while the beloved servant’s is from an aged and barren womb. ⁄ Yet, greatest of wonders, ⁄ he rightly goes before. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The Master’s birth is from a Virgin, ⁄ while the beloved servant’s is from an aged and barren womb. ⁄ Yet, greatest of wonders, ⁄ he rightly goes before. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

An aged and barren mother kissed the Virgin, ⁄ having come to know without a doubt ⁄ that the bond of unfruitfulness would be undone ⁄ by her childbearing in the will of God. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

You brought forth God incarnate while unwedded; ⁄ then establish me, for I am shaken by the assaults of passion. ⁄ There is no other help but you, undefiled one! [OCA]

Canon 2 for the Forerunner.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Establish your servants.

Τοὺς σοὺς ὑμνολόγους.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Word of your delivery, O Baptist, * from the barren woman loosed the bonds * of silence from your father’s voice. * And hence the condescension of Christ, * which is incomprehensible, * is now foretokened with signs from God. [SD]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The offspring that sprouted from the fruitless * barren woman, who himself declares * the fruitfulness attained in Christ, * cut down the unproductive and * unfruitful folly of the Jews, * using the axe of the words he preached. [SD]

Glory.

Rays of the new grace have brightly shone forth, * O Forerunner, by your birth today. * And now the old enigmas and types * according to the letter of * the Scriptures, like a shadow have * begun withdrawing before the light. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

The Son whom you bore, all-holy Virgin, * released human nature from the bonds * of condemnation; and instead * He bonded us, by grace, to himself, * bestowing blessings onto all, * O Theotokos, who honor you. [SD]

Ode 3: Katavasia

Ode iii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

CHOIR

Kathisma.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.

As a radiating sun * did Zacharias’s son * rise upon us on the earth * out of Elizabeth’s womb. * He puts an end to his father’s voicelessness. * And boldly he cries out * and very openly says * to the peoples of the world: * “Make straight the ways of the Lord. * For He is surely coming and will save those * who in repentance return to Him.” * O John the Baptist, since you announced Him, * also entreat Him to save our souls. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

O most pure and spotless Maid, * the awesome mystery * of your childbirth amazed * the hosts of Angels all: * how He who holds all things together by will alone * is held in your embrace * as a human being; * how the Pre-eternal Lord * accepts an origin; * how He who nourishes all breathing creatures * out of His goodness is nursed by you! * Hence they extol you and glorify you * for being truly the Mother of God. [SD]

From Menaion - - -

Ode iv.

Canon 1 for the Forerunner.

Heirmos. Mode 4.

Ὁ καθήμενος ἐν δόξῃ.

He who sits in holy glory * on the throne of divinity, * Jesus our most high God, * on a swift and light cloud has come to us, * and by the might of His undefiled hand has saved * those who cry to Him: Glory to Your strength, O Christ. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

A mystery precedes the ineffable mysteries, ⁄ Revealing them by a form new to the established law of nature, ⁄ Foretelling its deliverance from sickness, O Christ, ⁄ Its amendment and deification. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Isaiah spoke beforehand about the Son, ⁄ coming from the Father, about to become Incarnate, ⁄ and about a mortal Messenger, equal to the angels, saying: ⁄ Behold, I send him before Your face to cry in preparation: ⁄ Glory to Your power, O Christ! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

I have been born to serve the Master as a servant; ⁄ I have come to announce His coming, ⁄ that the barren woman who brought forth a flower in her old age ⁄ might believe beforehand in the childbearing of the Virgin! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The transcendent Word of the Father ⁄ was pleased to dwell in the ho1y Theotokos as a sweet-smelling mansion. ⁄ Her womb was not corrupted, and she suffered no travail, ⁄ for she bore Emmanuel, both God and Man. [OCA]

Canon 2 for the Forerunner.

From Menaion - - -

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

Τὴν ἀνεξιχνίαστον.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The rivers prepared their streams, ⁄ and the Jordan made its waters ready for the Master ⁄ Who now establishes His Baptist, ⁄ born today from barrenness! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The Maker’s own gifts of goodness, ⁄ He Who is the Day that dawns from on High, ⁄ bows down before the one who walks the earth ⁄ Proclaiming His Coming and Light. [OCA]

Glory.

Today John, the loud-crying trumpet ⁄ comes forth on earth from a barren womb ⁄ revealing to mortals the King and Lord ⁄ ineffably born of a Virgin. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

O all-immaculate Virgin, ⁄ you are the fulfillment of types and symbols in shadow, ⁄ and all the Prophets extolled you in their sayings ⁄ that foretold to all your great and marvelous wonders. [OCA]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Ode iv. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

From Menaion - - -

Ode v.

Canon 1 for the Forerunner.

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 4.

Νῦν ἀναστήσομαι.

I shall now arise! Said God prophetically; ⁄ I shall be exalted, I shall be glorified now, ⁄ taking fallen mankind from the Virgin, ⁄ and raising him up to the wonderful Light of My Own divinity! (2) [OCA]

Troparia.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The earth has raised up a preacher who is true indeed. ⁄ He proclaims the Son of the Virgin to all with the tongue of the Spirit: ⁄ He Who is righteousness came down to us from heaven, ⁄ stooping to us in the form of the body. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The Lord set you as the all-true candlestick of Christ, ⁄ for you send out light on all, ⁄ clothing those who are hostile to Him in shame as with a garment, ⁄ proclaiming forthrightly the Son and Word of God! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

All creation rejoices at your divine birth, ⁄ for you, Forerunner, were revealed as an earthly angel and heavenly man, ⁄ showing forth to us the Incarnate God of heaven. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The voices of the prophets have told of your wondrous works, ⁄ calling you the undefiled mountain, the gate and shining candlestick, ⁄ from whom the miraculous Light flashed signs of fire indeed ⁄ to the whole world, all-pure one. [OCA]

Canon 2 for the Forerunner.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (Amazed was the universe.)

Ἐξέστη τὰ σύμπαντα.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The nature that was weakened before ⁄ is now made strong to bring forth good fruits ⁄ by your birth from an unfruitful womb. ⁄ Life was proclaimed to mortals ⁄ by your coming forth, Forerunner. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The unquenchable candlestick proceeding from barren parents, ⁄ disclosed the Sun of glory rising from the Virgin, ⁄ enlightening all mankind with the light of the descent of grace! [OCA]

Glory.

The babbling tongues of the ungodly were bound, ⁄ yet their mouths were opened wide, ⁄ for the glory of the Coming of the God of all ⁄ was revealed and proclaimed clearly on earth today by the Forerunner! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

Glorifying your glory in words of prophecy, O Virgin, ⁄ Elizabeth plainly proclaimed the majesty of your divine childbearing with joy, ⁄ for you are indeed the gladness and boast of us all. [OCA]

Ode 5: Katavasia

Ode v. Katavasia. Mode 4.

Amazed was the universe by your divine magnificence. * You who were perpetually virgin * carried the heavenly God of all in your womb * and gave birth to the eternal Son, * who awards salvation to all who sing hymns of praise to you. [GOASD]

From Menaion - - -

Ode vi.

Canon 1 for the Forerunner.

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 4.

Ἦλθον εἰς τὰ βάθη.

I have come to the depths of the sea, ⁄ and a storm of many sins has wrecked me in the deep, ⁄ but as God, snatch my life from corruption, ⁄ greatly merciful One! (2) [OCA]

Troparia.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

As a prophet, you recognized God the Word ⁄ while still in the womb of your mother. ⁄ Proclaiming Him there with a prophet’s tongue, you confessed Him, ⁄ beholding in a dark chamber the unapproachable Light! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Never silent as the voice of one who cries aloud, ⁄ do not cease to pray the Deliverer of the world, O Baptist, ⁄ that He may loose the barrenness of soul ⁄ of those who sing the praises of your birth! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Your pure womb was revealed, Theotokos, ⁄ As the unapproachable dwelling of divinity ⁄ Upon Whom the hosts of heaven cannot gaze without fear! [OCA]

Canon 2 for the Forerunner.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. (N/M O godly-minded believers.)

Τὴν θείαν ταύτην.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The warring enemy was thrust with a two-edged sword: ⁄ your own birth, Forerunner! ⁄ You told abroad of his destruction, ⁄ and of mankind’s return to life. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Divine wealth drops down from divine heights ⁄ upon the universe, ⁄ for the herald of the adoption and grace of the human race ⁄ has been born today! [OCA]

Glory.

The wilderness spiritually poured forth sweet-smelling myrrh ⁄ at your birth from barrenness. ⁄ It is the revelation, John of great praise, ⁄ of the inexhaustible myrrh received from Christ. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

The Divine Forerunner recognized you as the Mother of God! ⁄ He leaped beforehand in his mother’s womb, ⁄ proclaiming your great things, pure Lady! [OCA]

Ode 6: Katavasia

Ode vi. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

From Menaion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode 3. On this day.

Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον.

On this day Christ’s Forerunner is born from her who was barren; and of all the prophesy he is himself the fulfillment. On the head of God the Word, who was by the Prophets heralded, he laid his hand at the Jordan River. Thus he showed himself to be His Prophet and Herald and likewise Forerunner. [SD]

Oikos.

Let us now extol the Lord’s Forerunner, whom Elizabeth bore to the priest, from a womb that was fruitless, but not without seed. Only Christ traversed the field that no one else traversed, that was truly without seed. John was borne of a barren woman, who bore him not without the agency of a man. Whereas Jesus was borne of a chaste Virgin, by the overshadowing of the Father and the divine Spirit. Yet the son of the barren one showed himself to be for the Son of the Virgin, Prophet and Herald, and likewise Forerunner. [SD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On June 24 we celebrate the Nativity of the honorable and glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist John.

By his holy intercessions, Christ God, have mercy on us. Amen.

CHOIR

From Menaion - - -

Ode vii.

Canon 1 for the Forerunner.

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 4.

Νέοι τρεῖς ἐν Βαβυλῶνι.

Three young men in Babylon ⁄ counting a tyrant’s command to be idle talk, ⁄ cried aloud in the midst of the flames: ⁄ Blessed are You, Lord, God of our fathers! (2) [OCA]

Troparia.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

The entire nature of those born on earth was darkened before, ⁄ but you appeared, Forerunner! ⁄ You were the morning that cried aloud: ⁄ Blessed are You, Lord, God of our fathers! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Your glorious birth from barrenness, Forerunner, ⁄ has entirely healed our sick nature, teaching it to sing: ⁄ Blessed are You, Lord, God of our fathers! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

O Forerunner, you have been born from a barren woman. ⁄ For while the Law had become barren, ⁄ grace truly came, singing to Christ: ⁄ Blessed are You, Lord, God of our fathers! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Intercede for us who pray to you, ⁄ pure and blessed Virgin, ⁄ for we all hope in you and cry aloud: ⁄ Do not despise your servants, Lady! [OCA]

Canon 2 for the Forerunner.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (Godly-minded three.)

Οὐκ ἐλάτρευσαν.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

He Who makes all things by the Spirit, ⁄ as the Lord and Creator of all, ⁄ today brings forth from a barren womb ⁄ the fruit that is the Forerunner. ⁄ He reveals beforehand that mankind’s barren nature ⁄ shall bring forth the fruit of divine things. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

As Christ, the Giver of life, ⁄ brought back life to your mother’s deadened womb by your birth, ⁄ so by your preaching He has raised up and renewed the strength ⁄ of the dead expectations of the human race. [OCA]

Glory.

Forerunner, saint worthy of all praise, ⁄ the wilderness received you as a light greater than the heavenly sun. ⁄ It was enlightened with joy and adorned by you, ⁄ and together with all creation sings to the Lord and God throughout all ages. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

The righteous in days of old ⁄ sought to behold your glory, undefiled Lady. ⁄ We perceive it and honor it in faith as we cry: ⁄ Blessed and most praised is the fruit of your womb, O Lady! [OCA]

Ode 7: Katavasia

Ode vii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

From Menaion - - -

Ode viii.

Canon 1 for the Forerunner.

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 4.

Εὐεργέτα Χριστὲ Παντοδύναμε.

Almighty Redeemer of all, ⁄ You descended to the godly youths in the midst of the flames, ⁄ shedding Your dew upon them, and teaching them to sing: ⁄ All works of the Lord, praise and bless the Lord! (2) [OCA]

Troparia.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Moses was the servant of Him Who gave the Law, ⁄ while Jesus is the God of the new covenant. ⁄ Now the Forerunner sings as the advocate of them both: ⁄ All works of the Lord, praise and bless the Lord! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

A dove has come from a desolate womb, ⁄ the Forerunner of Christ brings the Church a divinely-planted branch and sings: ⁄ All works of the Lord, praise and bless the Lord! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

God-bearing people, holy nation, ⁄ be like the dove of Christ. ⁄ live together in chastity and sweetly sing: ⁄ All works of the Lord, praise and bless the Lord! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Let us honor the pure and Virgin Lady ⁄ who conceived past nature for our salvation the uncreated and unoriginate Word ⁄ to Whom we cry aloud: ⁄ All works of the Lord, praise and bless the Lord! [OCA]

Canon 2 for the Forerunner.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. N/M (Guiltless were those Servants.)

Παῖδας εὐαγεῖς.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

John, you are worthy of all praise! ⁄ You sprang from barrenness as a friend and apostle of the Creator; ⁄ the Preacher, Baptist and divine Forerunner, ⁄ the Witness, Teacher, Advocate, Angel and Minister! ⁄ You are our Intercessor who reveal these things in words and deeds! [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

A treasury of grace is opened ⁄ belonging to Christ’s new covenant; ⁄ the customs of ancient sacrifices are bound and made to cease, ⁄ while the new people raise a song, ⁄ exalting Christ above all forever! [OCA]

Glory.

We offer you, John, worthy of all praise, ⁄ as a flower woven in the crown of the praise of the Word of God, ⁄ and we cry in thanksgiving to Christ, the Giver of all crowns: ⁄ All works of the Lord, bless the Lord, and exalt Him above all forever! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

The bond of dumbness was opened in days of old ⁄ at the time of your conceiving, Virgin, ⁄ and the lips of those who love you are opened in praise for your Child, ⁄ crying out: All works of the Lord, bless the Lord; ⁄ Sing and exalt Him above all forever! [OCA]

Ode 8: Katavasia

Ode viii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Guiltless were those Servants in the furnace. * The Son of the Theotokos went and rescued them. * He who was prefigured then, * having been incarnate now, * is gathering the whole wide world into His Church to sing: * “O all you works of the Lord, to all ages * sing praises to the Lord and exalt Him beyond measure.” [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 4.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From Menaion - - -

Ode ix.

Canon 1 for the Forerunner.

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 4.

Λόγου Θεοῦ ἄφραστον.

The pure, divine and ineffable mystery ⁄ finds its fulfillment in you, pure Virgin, ⁄ for in compassion, God has taken bodily form from you. ⁄ Therefore we magnify you as the Theotokos! (2) [OCA]

Troparia.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Behold, the Voice that goes before ⁄ sings now to barren and desolate hearts: ⁄ Prepare the way of Christ, for He comes in glory! ⁄ We obey, and magnify Him. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Behold, the Voice that goes before ⁄ sings now to barren and desolate hearts: ⁄ Prepare the way of Christ, for He comes in glory! ⁄ We obey, and magnify Him. [OCA]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

Forerunner, as of old you proclaimed in the Holy Spirit ⁄ the Son and Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world, ⁄ so intercede for your flock to be delivered from sins. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Grant your people the trophies of victory, ⁄ for you reign over all creatures, O Queen. ⁄ Establish a truce for the Church from the enemy ⁄ that we may magnify you as the Theotokos! [OCA]

Canon 2 for the Forerunner.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. All you born on earth.

Ἅπας γηγενής.

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

By the birth today * of St. John the Baptist do the gates of the divine * light begin to open now; * it is announced that the halls of darkness shall * be shut at last. For as the Forerunner and Prophet of Christ * comes into the * light of life he heralds this * and confirms it by means of his father’s voice. [SD]

Baptist of Christ, intercede for us.

John the Forerunner * burst forth as a shower of intelligible rain * from a dry and waterless cloud. * And as a Prophet, to all he then announced * the coming of the heavenly stream of the river of peace * for renewal * in the Spirit of our own * human nature increasing the fruits of grace. [SD]

Glory.

Like another sky * adorned with the shining stars, * so is the Church today * by the divine graces of * the holy Baptist brightly illumined now * and beautified. And thus she praises his nativity, * glorifying * and lauding the Lord of all * who bestows the superior gifts of grace. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Gushing forth from you * as water of life, all-holy Virgin Bride of God, * the Lord washed and hallowed us * who have received Him into ourselves with faith, * and made us heirs of His divine and uncreated Rule. * We extol His * goodness and benevolence, * and we ardently magnify you with love. [SD]

Ode 9: Katavasia

Ode ix. Katavasia. Mode 4.

All you born on earth, * with festival lamps in hand, in spirit leap for joy; * and all you the heavenly angelic orders, join in and celebrate; * and honoring the sacred wonders of the Mother of God, * sing the joyful salutation, “O rejoice, * Theotokos, all-blest, ever-virgin pure!” [GOASD]

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Exaposteilarion.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. O Women, hearken.

Γυναῖκες ἀκουτίσθητε.

The gladdening nativity * today of John the Forerunner * dispels the sadness attached to * the voicelessness of his father * and to his mother’s childlessness. * Moreover it proclaims the joy * and exultation still to come. * Therefore is all creation * celebrating it gaily. [SD]

Theotokion.

Mode 2. O Women, hearken.

The Prophets did proclaim of old, * and later the Apostles taught, * and godly-minded Martyrs * confessed distinctly, O Pure one, * your Son to be the God of all, * O Theotokos. And with them * we magnify you, for through you * O Virgin, we were redeemed from * the former condemnation. [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

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]

What a paradoxal miracle! * The holy Forerunner John, * as the herald of God the Word, * hastens to come forth today * from his elderly mother’s womb. * And by his birth he renders his father’s tongue, * that had been fettered, distinctly eloquent. * Truly ineffable, * Master, is Your providence! By which, O Christ, * save our souls, as You alone * are One compassionate. [SD]

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

What a paradoxal miracle! * He who is greater than those * born of women and Prophets all * for his mother now dispels * the indictment of barrenness, * as in the spirit and pow’r of Elias he comes, * going before the Lord to prepare His ways. * Truly unutterable, * Master, is Your tender love. By which, O Christ, * save our souls, as You alone * are One compassionate. [SD]

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

What a paradoxal miracle! * He who announced unto all * the kenósis of Christ the Lord * by the Master’s voice is shown * to be greater than everyone. * And he releases Elizabeth’s barrenness * by divine power, and Zachariah’s voice. * Truly magnificent, * Master, are Your miracles. By which, O Christ, * save us who honor Your great * Baptist and Forerunner. [SD]

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

What a paradoxal miracle! * He who had leapt in the womb * as the Prophet and Forerunner * now is shown to be the one * who is greatest among those born * of women, higher yet than the Prophets all, * and of the coming of Christ the messenger. * Great and magnificent, * loving Master, are Your gifts! By which, O Christ, * save our souls, as You alone * are the Almighty One. [SD]

Glory.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2.

Star of stars, the Forerunner, from a barren womb is born on earth today: John, yes, John loved by God. And he manifests the resplendent dawning of Christ, the Orient from on high, for the straight passage of the faithful. [SD]

From Octoechos - - -

Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 2.

Theotokos, you are the true vine that produced the fruit of life. Lady, we fervently entreat you to intercede along with the Forerunner and all the saints, that our souls be treated mercifully. [SD]

Stand for the Great Doxology.

Great Doxology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Continue Your mercy to those who know You.

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

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

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

Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

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

Apolytikion.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Ταχὺ προκατάλαβε.

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 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, whose Birth we celebrate; of the holy, glorious, and praiseworthy apostles, of the holy, glorious, and triumphant martyrs, of our righteous and God-bearing fathers, (local patron saint); of the holy and righteous ancestors of God Joachim and Anna, and of all the saints, have mercy on us and save us, as He is good, benevolent, and merciful God.

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

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

CHOIR: Amen.