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Triodion

Mode pl. 1. On Saturday Morning

On Saturday of the Second Week Morning

Menaion - March 7

Memory of the holy Hieromartyrs in Cherson

__________

MATINS

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CHOIR

Mode 2.

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

Verse: Blessed are they whom You have chosen and received, O Lord. [SAAS]

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

Verse: And their memorial abides from generation to generation. [SAAS]

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

From Triodion - - -

Apolytikion.

Mode 2.

O Apostles, Martyrs, Prophets, Hierarchs, Monastics and the Righteous, you finished the race and kept the faith. You speak freely to the Savior. We pray you entreat Him on our behalf, to save our souls, since He is good. [SD]

Glory.

Remember Your servants, O Lord, since You are good, and forgive them for all their sins in life; for no one is without sin except for You who are able to give rest to those who have passed away. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Holy Mother of the immaculate Light, we honor you with angelic hymns, and magnify you piously. [SD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 16. 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.

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CHOIR

Kathisma I.

From Triodion - - -

Mode pl. 1.

Lord, Your medal-winning martyrs longed to drink the cup of Your Passion. So they forsook the delights of this life, and they became partners with the Angels. At their supplications, grant to our souls forgiveness of sins and the great mercy. [SD]

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

You have given us the miracles of Your holy Martyrs as an impregnable fortress, O Christ our God. At their entreaties, frustrate the plots of foreign enemies, and strengthen our nation, for You alone are good and benevolent. [SD]

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

Mode pl. 1. As the Father and Spirit.

Τὸν συνάναρχον Λόγον.

Disregarding the perils and persecutions, * and not frightened by tyrants and their audacity, * medal-winning Martyrs publicly proclaimed Christ, * and as they steadfastly endured being tortured they were shown to be victorious clearly, * and they brought down the deception of the idols and the devil’s might. [SD]

Glory. For the Dead.

O Savior, let Your servants repose with the righteous, and let them dwell in Your courts, according to the Scriptures. Overlook their voluntary and involuntary offenses, every sin committed knowingly or unknowingly, benevolent Lord. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

From the Virgin You rose on the world, O Christ God. Through her make us sons of light and have mercy on us. [GOASD]

READER

KATHISMA 17.

Psalm 118 (119)

First Stanza.

Blessed are You, O Lord; teach me Your ordinances. [SAAS]

Blessed are the blameless in the way who walk in the law of the Lord.

Blessed are those who search out His testimonies; they shall search for Him with their whole heart.

For those who work lawlessness do not walk in His ways.

You commanded us regarding Your commandments, that we should be very diligent to keep them.

Would that my ways were led, that I might keep Your ordinances.

Then I would not be ashamed when I regard all Your commandments.

I will give thanks to You, O Lord, with an upright heart, when I learn the judgments of Your righteousness.

I shall keep Your ordinances; do not utterly forsake me.

How shall a young man keep his way straight? when he keeps Your words.

I searched for You with my whole heart; do not drive me away from Your commandments.

I hid Your teachings in my heart so as not to sin against You.

Blessed are You, O Lord; teach me Your ordinances.

With my lips I declared all the judgments of Your mouth.

I delight in the way of Your testimonies as much as in all riches.

I shall meditate on Your commandments, and I shall understand Your ways.

I shall meditate on Your ordinances; I shall not forget Your words.

Reward Your servant; I shall live, and keep Your words.

Unveil my eyes, and I shall understand the wonders in Your law.

I am a sojourner on the earth; do not hide Your commandments from me.

My soul longed to desire Your judgments in every season.

You rebuke the arrogant; those who turn aside from Your commandments are accursed.

Take away reproach and contempt from me, for I searched Your testimonies.

For rulers sat and spoke against me, but Your servant meditated on Your ordinances.

For Your testimonies are my meditation, and Your ordinances are my counsels.

My soul cleaves to the earth; give me life according to Your word.

I made known my ways and You heard me; teach me Your ordinances.

Cause me to understand the way of Your ordinances, and I shall meditate on Your wonders.

My soul fainted because of its listlessness; establish me in Your words.

Remove the way of unrighteousness from me, and with Your law have mercy on me.

I chose the way of truth; I have not forgotten Your judgments.

I cleave to Your testimonies; O Lord, do not disappoint me.

I ran on the path of Your commandments, when You enlarged my heart.

Give me as law, O Lord, the way of Your ordinances, and I shall always search them.

Cause me to understand, and I shall search out Your law; and I shall keep it with my whole heart.

Guide me in the path of Your commandments, for I desire it.

Incline my heart to Your testimonies and not to greediness.

Turn away my eyes that I may not see vanity; give me life in Your way.

Establish Your teaching in Your servant In regard to Your fear.

Take away my blame, which I have suspected, for Your judgments are good.

Behold, I long for Your commandments; give me life in Your righteousness.

And may Your mercy come upon me, O Lord, Your salvation according to Your teaching.

And I shall answer those who insult me with a word, for I hope in Your words.

Do not take away the word of truth completely from my mouth, for I hope in Your judgments.

So I shall keep Your law always, forever and unto ages of ages.

And I walk in a broad space, for I searched Your commandments.

I spoke of Your testimonies before kings, and I was not ashamed.

And I meditate on Your commandments, which I love exceedingly.

And I raise my hands to Your commandments, which I love. And I meditate on Your ordinances.

Remember Your word to Your servant, in which You give me hope.

This comforted me in my humiliation, for Your teaching gives me life.

The arrogant transgressed exceedingly, but I did not turn away from Your law.

I remembered Your judgments of old, O Lord, and I was comforted.

Despondency held me because of sinners who abandon Your law.

Your ordinances were sung to me In the place of my sojourning.

I remembered Your name in the night, O Lord, and I kept Your law.

This happened to me in the night, because I searched Your ordinances.

You are my portion, O Lord; I said I will keep Your law.

I sought Your presence with my whole heart; have mercy on me according to Your teaching.

I considered Your ways, and I turned my feet toward Your testimonies.

I prepared myself, and I was not troubled, that I might keep Your commandments.

The ropes of sinners ensnared me, but I did not forget Your law.

At midnight I arose to give thanks to You because of the judgments of Your righteousness.

I am a companion of all who fear You and keep Your commandments.

Lord, the earth is full of Your mercy; teach me Your ordinances.

Lord, You dealt with Your servant in goodness, according to Your word.

Teach me goodness, instruction, and knowledge, for I believe Your commandments.

Before I was humbled, I transgressed; therefore, I kept Your teaching.

You are good, O Lord, and in Your goodness teach me Your ordinances.

The unrighteousness of the arrogant multiplied against me, but I will search out Your commandments with my whole heart.

Their heart was curdled like milk, but I meditated on Your law.

It is good for me that You humbled me, that I might learn Your ordinances.

The law of Your mouth is good for me, rather than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.

Your hands made and fashioned me; instruct me, and I will learn Your commandments.

Those who fear You will see me and be glad, because I hope in Your words.

I know, O Lord, Your judgments are righteousness, and You humbled me with truth.

Let Your mercy be for my comfort, according to Your teaching to Your servant.

Let Your compassions come to me, and I shall live; for Your law is my meditation.

Let the arrogant be shamed, for they transgressed unjustly against me; but I shall meditate on Your commandments.

Let those who fear You turn to me, and those who know Your testimonies.

Let my heart be blameless in Your ordinances, that I may not be disappointed.

My soul earnestly longs for Your salvation, and I hope in Your word.

My eyes strained to look at Your teaching, saying, “When will You comfort me?”

I am like a leather bag in a frost; I did not forget Your ordinances.

How many are the days of Your servant? When will You execute judgment for me upon those who persecute me?

Transgressors described their meditations to me, but these are not like Your law, O Lord.

All Your commandments are truth; they persecuted me unjustly; help me.

They almost ended my life on earth, but I did not forsake Your commandments.

Give me life according to Your mercy, and I shall keep the testimonies of Your mouth.

Forever, O Lord, Your word continues in heaven.

Your truth continues from generation to generation; You laid the foundation of the earth, and it continues.

By Your arrangement each day continues, for all things are Your servants.

If Your law were not my meditation, I would have perished in my humiliation.

CHOIR

Mode pl. 4.

I will never forget Your ordinances, for in them You give me life, O Lord. (3)

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Again we pray for the blessed memory and eternal repose of all pious Orthodox Christians who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection unto life everlasting, emperors, patriarchs, bishops, priests, hieromonks, deacons, monastics, fathers, forebears, grandparents, great-grandparents, parents, spouses, children, siblings, and all our relatives, from the beginning until the end of time; and for the forgiveness of all their sins, both voluntary and involuntary.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

May the Lord God place their souls where the righteous repose. Let us ask for the mercies of God, the kingdom of Heaven, and the forgiveness of their sins from Christ our immortal king and God.

CHOIR: Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

Let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

O God of spirits and of all flesh, You trampled upon death and abolished the power of the devil, giving life to Your world. Give rest to the souls of Your departed servants, emperors, patriarchs, bishops, priests, hieromonks, deacons, monks, nuns, and all pious Orthodox Christians who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection unto life everlasting, from all the ends of the world, fathers, forebears, grandparents, great-grandparents, parents, spouses, children, siblings, and all our relatives. Give them rest in a place of light, in a place of green pasture, in a place of refreshment, from where pain, sorrow, and sighing have fled away. As good and benevolent God, forgive every sin they have committed in word, deed, or thought, for there is no one who lives and does not sin. You alone are without sin. Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Your word is truth.

DEACON

Let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

For You are the resurrection, the life, and the repose of all the departed faithful Orthodox Christians, Christ our God, and to You we offer up glory, and to Your Father, who is without beginning, and Your all-holy, good and life-creating Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

READER

Second Stanza.

I am Yours; save me, for I search Your ordinances. [SAAS]

Sinners waited for me to kill me; I understood Your testimonies.

I saw the limit of every accomplishment; Your commandment is exceedingly broad.

How I love Your law, O Lord; It is my meditation the whole day long.

You make me wiser than my enemies with Your commandment, for it is mine forever.

I understand more than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation.

I understand more than the elders, for I search Your commandments.

I withheld my feet from every evil way, that I might keep Your words.

I did not turn away from Your judgments, for You taught me Your law.

How sweet to my taste are Your teachings, more than honey and the honeycomb in my mouth.

I gained understanding because of Your commandments; therefore, I hate every unrighteous way.

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my paths.

I swore and confirmed that I would keep the judgments of Your righteousness.

I was humbled exceedingly; O Lord, give me life according to Your word.

Be well-pleased with the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord, and teach me Your judgments.

My soul is always in Your hands, and I have not forgotten Your law.

Sinners set snares for me, but I did not wander from Your commandments.

I inherited Your testimonies forever, for these are the exceeding joy of my heart.

I inclined my heart to do Your ordinances forever for a reward.

Transgressors I hate, but I love Your law.

You are my helper and my protector; I hope in Your word.

Turn away from me, you evildoers, and I shall search out the commandments of my God.

Uphold me according to Your teaching, and give me life; and may You not disappoint my expectation.

Help me, and I shall be saved; and I shall meditate always in Your ordinances.

You set at naught all who departed from Your ordinances, for their thought is unrighteous.

I counted as transgressors all the sinners of the earth; for this reason I always love Your testimonies.

Nail my flesh with the fear of You, for I fear You because of Your judgments.

I work judgment and righteousness; do not deliver me to those who wrong me.

Take Your servant to that which is good; do not let the arrogant falsely accuse me.

My eyes strained to look at Your salvation and at the teaching of Your righteousness.

Deal with Your servant according to Your mercy and teach me Your ordinances.

I am Your servant; cause me to understand, and I shall know Your testimonies.

It is time for the Lord to act; they broke Your law.

For this reason I love Your commandments more than gold and topaz.

Therefore I directed myself to all Your commandments; I hated every unrighteous way.

Wondrous are Your testimonies; for this reason my soul searches them out.

The revelation of Your words gives light, and it causes children to understand.

I opened my mouth and drew in my breath, for I longed for Your commandments.

Look upon me and have mercy on me, according to the judgment of those who love Your name.

Direct my steps according to Your teaching and let no lawlessness rule over me.

Ransom me from the slander of men, and I will keep Your commandments.

Make Your face shine upon Your servant and teach me Your ordinances.

My eyes poured down streams of tears because they did not keep Your law.

Righteous are You, O Lord, and upright is Your judgment.

You commanded Your testimonies exceedingly in righteousness and truth.

The zeal of Your house caused me to yearn for home, for my enemies forgot Your words.

Your teaching is exceedingly purified in fire, and Your servant loves it.

I am young, and beheld as nothing, but I have not forgotten Your ordinances.

Your righteousness is righteousness forever, and Your law is truth.

Affliction and trouble found me, but Your commandments are my meditation.

Your testimonies are righteousness forever; give me understanding, and I shall live.

I cry out with my whole heart; hear me, O Lord; I shall search Your ordinances.

I cry out to You; save me, and I shall keep Your testimonies.

I arose at midnight and cried out; I hoped in Your words.

My eyes awoke before dawn that I might meditate on Your teachings.

Hear my voice, O Lord, according to Your mercy; give me life according to Your judgment.

Those who persecute me in lawlessness drew near; they are far removed from Your law.

You are near, O Lord; all Your commandments are truth.

From the beginning I knew Your testimonies, that You established them forever.

Behold my humiliation and deliver me, for I have not forgotten Your law.

Plead my cause and redeem me; give me life because of Your word.

Salvation is far from sinners, for they have not searched Your ordinances.

Your compassions are many, O Lord; give me life according to Your judgment.

Many are those who pursue and afflict me, but I did not turn away from Your testimonies.

I saw those acting foolishly, and I yearned for You; for they did not keep Your teachings.

Behold, I love Your commandments; O Lord, in Your mercy, give me life.

The beginning of Your words is truth, and all the judgments of Your righteousness are forever.

Rulers persecuted me without cause, but my heart feared because of Your words.

I shall greatly rejoice in Your teachings, like one finding great spoil.

I hate and abhor unrighteousness, but I love Your law.

I praise You seven times a day for the judgments of Your righteousness.

Great peace have all who love Your law, and it is not an offense to them.

I long for Your salvation, O Lord, and I love Your commandments.

My soul keeps Your testimonies, and I love them exceedingly.

I keep Your commandments and Your testimonies, for all my ways are before You, O Lord.

Let my supplication draw near before You, O Lord; give me understanding according to Your teaching.

May my petition come before You; Deliver me according to Your teaching.

My lips shall overflow in song when You teach me Your ordinances.

My tongue shall speak of Your teaching, for all Your commandments are righteousness.

Let Your hand be for saving me, for I chose Your commandments.

I long for Your salvation, O Lord, and Your law is my meditation.

CHOIR

Mode pl. 1.

My soul shall live and praise You, and Your judgments shall help me. I went astray like a lost sheep; seek Your servant, for I have not forgotten Your commandments. (3)

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Evlogetaria for the Dead.

Mode pl. 1.

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

The choir of Saints has found the fountain of life and the door of Paradise. May I also find the way through repentance. I am the sheep that is lost: O Savior, call me back and save me. [HC]

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

Of old You created me from nothing and honored me with Your divine image. But when I disobeyed Your commandment, O Lord, You cast me down to the earth from where I was taken. Lead me back again to Your likeness, and renew my original beauty. [HC]

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

I am an image of Your ineffable glory, though I bear the scars of my transgressions. On Your creation, Master, take pity and cleanse me by Your compassion. Grant me the homeland for which I long and once again make me a citizen of Paradise. [HC]

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

Give rest, O God, to Your servant, and place him (her) in Paradise where the choirs of the Saints and the righteous will shine as the stars of heaven. To Your departed servant give rest, O Lord, and forgive all his (her) offenses. [HC]

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

The threefold radiance of the one God let us praise, and let us shout in song: Holy are You, eternal Father, coeternal Son, and divine Spirit! Illumine us who worship You in faith and deliver us from the eternal fire. [HC]

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

Rejoice, gracious Lady, who for the salvation of all gave birth to God in the flesh, and through whom the human race has found salvation. Through you, pure and blessed Theotokos, may we find Paradise. [HC]

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

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

May the Lord God place their souls where the righteous repose. Let us ask for the mercies of God, the kingdom of Heaven, and the forgiveness of their sins from Christ our immortal king and God.

CHOIR: Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

Let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

DEACON

Let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: Amen.

CHOIR

Kathisma II.

From Triodion - - -

Mode pl. 1.

Glory.

Every sin committed knowingly or unknowingly, benevolent Lord. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

From the Virgin You rose on the world, O Christ God. Through her make us sons of light and have mercy on us. [GOASD]

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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

Canon for the Saints.

Ode i. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Θαλάσσης τὸ ἐρυθραῖον.

Verse: Let us sing to the Lord, for He is greatly glorified.

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

Troparia.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O Martyrs, because you out-pour of the holy overflow of radiance, save us from the dark haze of passions, we who piously commend without ceasing this radiant festival of yours which gives light. [un]

Verse: The Lord reigns forever and ever and ever. For Pharaoh’s horses went with his chariots and horsemen into the sea. [SAAS]

O Martyrs, because you out-pour of the holy overflow of radiance, save us from the dark haze of passions, we who piously commend without ceasing this radiant festival of yours which gives light. [un]

Verse: But the children of Israel walked on dry ground in the midst of the sea. [SAAS]

O righteous Fathers, the Word of God made flesh displayed you to be shepherds of great glory, so that you would announce His Divinity to those in falsehood who are endangered by lack of knowledge. [un]

Glory.

O glorious Fathers, because you are entirely replete with the streams of the Holy Spirit which create life, you irrigated those who had become dehydrated from the scorching heat of woeful atheism. You led them to the water of salvation. [un]

Both now. Theotokion.

O pure and spotless Virgin, through your childbirth which is beyond understanding, our original ancestors had their conviction nullified. The original admission into Paradise was returned to them. They praised you with a mighty voice. [un]

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saints.

Ode iii. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Εὐφραίνεται ἐπὶ σοί.

Verse: Holy are You, O Lord, and my spirit praises You.

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

Troparia.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O all-wise Basilefs, because your mind was inflamed with the holy fire, and because you are a wonderful shepherd, you caused atheism to burn in flames. [un]

Verse: The Lord went up into the heaven and thundered. The Lord judges the ends of the earth. [SAAS]

O all-wise Basilefs, because your mind was inflamed with the holy fire, and because you are a wonderful shepherd, you caused atheism to burn in flames. [un]

Verse: He gives strength to our leaders, and He will exalt the horn of His Christ. [SAAS]

O glorious Fathers, by the radiance of the Holy Spirit, you caused those who were in destructive murkiness to come into the illumination of holy baptism. [un]

Glory.

O Basilefs, because your ways were pointed straightways towards God, they caused every man to turn towards the way of holy understanding and away from the way of falsehood [un]

Both now. Theotokion.

O pure and totally spotless Virgin, your conception was of the powerful Lord. He frees mortals from the power of the adversary. [un]

Heirmos.

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

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 3. N/M (You were so beautiful.)

Τὴν ὡραιότητα.

You were ordained as priests through fragrant chrism. O lights that shine everywhere, you Martyrs who are commended by everyone, you became shepherds to a people full of faith and divine prudence. As immaculate and unblemished lambs, you were sacrificed on behalf of the Word and brought to the Highest Shepherd, Christ, who was sacrificed as though a sheep. Therefore, all of us hold a feast with yearning for your godly and holy memory. [un]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 3. You were so beautiful.

O Virgin, the untilled vineyard are you indeed; * and you produced the Lord, that ripest bunch of grapes, * that gushes forth the sweetest drink, the wine of salvation, for us, * gladdening the hearts and souls * and the bodies of everyone. * Therefore we pronounce you blest * as the cause of all theses blessings on us, * and joining the Archangel we shout to you: * Rejoice, O Maiden full of grace! [SD]

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saints.

Ode iv. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Ἐπαρθέντα σε ἰδοῦσα.

Verse: Glory to Your strength, O Lord.

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

Troparia.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

Permit it that the holy chorus of Martyrs may be commended, for this chorus is made wonderful by the graces of the priesthood and martyrdom. This chorus joyfully sings: Glory to Your strength, O Lord. [un]

Verse: The Lord God is my strength; He will direct my feet to the end. [SAAS]

The Holy Spirit displayed Ephrem, Basilefs, Capito, Eugene, Elpidios, and the holy Aetherios as sailors of the Church and carriers of God. [un]

Verse: He will set me upon high places, so to conquer by His song. [SAAS]

O holy Fathers, you were brought into holiness. Truly the people were shepherded by you with holiness and righteousness. You were giving an ending of blessed martyrdom. [un]

Glory.

O holy Martyr Basilefs, the unbelievers who were as though dead have achieved unending life through the resurrection of Him who died. O holy Marty Basilefs, through you they came to faith in Christ our God. [un]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Virgin, you made the men who had been killed to come back to life through your ineffable childbirth of hypostatic Life, who is our God Christ. Because of His empathy, He became man. [un]

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saints.

Ode v. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Σὺ Κύριέ μου φῶς.

Verse: O Lord our God, grant us peace.

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

Troparia.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O God-bearing Fathers, you imbibed of the chalice of most eminent martyrdom while invoking the Name of the Lord in faith. [un]

Verse: The dead shall rise up; and those in the tombs shall arise. Those in the earth shall be glad. [SAAS]

O God-bearing Fathers, you imbibed of the chalice of most eminent martyrdom while invoking the Name of the Lord in faith. [un]

Verse: For your dew is a healing for them, but the land of the ungodly shall come to an end. [SAAS]

O Basilefs, the one that was dead was resurrected through your prayers by He who alone can inspire new life into the slain. This caused your message to become even more radiant. [un]

Glory.

O Fathers, you mitigated the polytheistic oppression of the insanity of idolatry. You preached about the Son who is of the same eminence as the Father. [un]

Both now. Theotokion.

O immaculate one, the people who understand that the Master of all has you as a mother are blessed. Their yearning for you causes them to name you as blessed. [un]

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saints.

Ode vi. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Θύσω σοι μετὰ φωνῆς.

Verse: Save us, O Lord, like You saved the Prophet Jonah.

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

Troparia.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

With commendation may we grant crowns to Agathodoros, Eugene, the great Basilefs, and the wise Elpidios. They are hierarchs and honorable Martyrs. [un]

Verse: I cried out in my affliction to the Lord, my God, and He heard my voice. [SAAS]

With commendation may we grant crowns to Agathodoros, Eugene, the great Basilefs, and the wise Elpidios. They are hierarchs and honorable Martyrs. [un]

Verse: You cast me into the depths of the heart of the sea, and rivers encompassed me. [SAAS]

O Martyrs full of wisdom, you were fed by the commands of the Holy Spirit. You founded rules of salvation for the disobedient. You caused them to piously come to the light. [un]

Verse: All Your surging waters and Your waves passed over me. [SAAS]

You nursed the peoples of several cities, but you were shepherds of a single people You were heirs of the holy city where the Martyrs live and serve God. [un]

Verse: Shall I again look with favor toward Your holy temple? [SAAS]

Theotokion.

O Virgin without any guilt, the Prophets foretold of you with their unclear messages, as did the Law which cast shadows of you. Your conception beyond of understanding delivered the world from destruction. [un]

Canon 1 from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode pl. 4. (NM) I pour out my prayer

Τὴν δέησιν ἐκχεῶ.

Verse: Water is poured over me to my soul; the lowest depth encircled me. [SAAS]

Because of the many torments that they suffered, the saints were counted worthy to overthrow many thousands of the enemy, and they received, O Saviour, many blessings from Thee. At their intercessions, in Thy love wash me clean from all my sins. [KW]

Verse: My head plunged into the clefts of the mountains. I descended into the earth, the bars of which are everlasting barriers. [SAAS]

Let us all sing the praises of the victorious martyrs of Christ, and let us cry to them with one accord: O followers of Christ’s Passion, heal the passions of our souls and give us strength to abstain from every evil way. [KW]

Verse: Yet let my life ascend from corruption, O Lord, my God. [SAAS]

Sleeping in the tomb, Thou hast transformed the sorrow of death into a sleep, and hast given life to the departed. O Saviour, grant to those who have gone from us a place with Thine elect, at the prayers of Thy holy martyrs. [KW]

Verse: My head plunged into the clefts of the mountains. I descended into the earth, the bars of which are everlasting barriers. [SAAS]

Theotokion.

Ineffably, O Virgin, thou hast borne the Word made flesh, who is all powerful and sinless: give me strength to fast and to abstain from every sin; and, O Undefiled, grant me tears to wash away my filthiness. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode vi. Mode 3. (NM) The deep waters of the passions.

Βυθός μοι τῶν παθῶν.

Verse: Those who follow vanity and lies forsake their own mercy. [SAAS]

Come, all who love the martyrs, let us celebrate their memory with prayers to God. In gladness let us crown them with our hymns and bless Christ who has rewarded them for their suffering. [KW]

Verse: As much as I vowed, I shall offer up to You, to You, the Lord of Deliverance. [SAAS]

First ye were scourged, then stoned, or sawn asunder, or given as food to the wild beasts. Ye were slaughtered as the sheep of Christ, but ye live for ever, O victorious martyrs. [KW]

Glory. For the Trinity.

I unite the Three in the one Nature of the Godhead, and divide the One into three Persons; and I reject equally the opposing heresies of Sabellius and Arius. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

Thou art a virgin, and after childbearing thou still remainest pure; yet thou hast truly given birth. Strange is the mystery that is revealed in thee, Mother of God, and beyond words and understanding. [KW]

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

For the Martyrs.

O martyrs, the blood of your patient suffering makes unceasing intercession to the Lord on our behalf. Pray for us now, that we may keep a fast from shameful passions. [KW]

Verse: Their souls shall dwell among good things. [SAAS]

For the Dead.

O Lord all-merciful, who shalt come to judge the whole world in the presence of ten thousands of the angels, grant to those who have fallen asleep in faith, that they may stand then before Thee uncondemned. [KW]

Heirmos (NM). Mode 3.

Βυθός μοι τῶν παθῶν.

The deep waters of the passions and a storm of adverse winds have risen up against me. Make haste, O Saviour, to save me, and to deliver me from corruption, as Thou hast delivered the Prophet from the whale. [KW]

Ode 6: Short Litany

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

READER

From Horologion - - -

Kontakion.

With the Saints give rest, O Christ, to the souls of Your servants where there is no pain, no sorrow, no sighing, but life everlasting. [GOA]

Oikos.

You alone are immortal, You who created and fashioned man. For we mortals were fashioned from the earth, and to the same earth we will go again, as You who fashioned me commanded and said to me: “You are earth, and to the earth you shall return”; where all we mortals shall go, as we make our funeral lament: Alleluia. [SD]

bookmark

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On March 7 we commemorate the holy Hieromartyrs Ephrem, Basilefs, Evgenios, Agathodoros, Elpidios, Capito and Aetherios, who were bishops of Cherson.

On this day Nestor and Arcadios, Bishops of Trimythous, died in peace.

On this day we also commemorate our devout father Paul the Simple.

On this day Saint Ephrem, Patriarch of Antioch, died in peace.

We also commemorate our devout father Laurence, founder of the holy Monastery of Phaneromeni on the island of Salamina.

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

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From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Canon for the Saints.

Ode vii. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Ἐν τῇ καμίνῳ Ἀβραμιαῖοι.

Verse: Blessed are You, the God of our fathers.

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

Troparia.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O Father Capito, you joyously entered into the oven. Like the Three Youths, you were not burned. You caused those without belief to turn from the coming fire. You directed them to have faith when you performed your divine wonders. [un]

Verse: Blessed are You and praiseworthy, O Lord, the God of our fathers, and praised and glorified is Your name unto the ages. [SAAS]

Verse: For You are righteous in all You did for us, and all Your works are true. Your ways are upright, and all Your judgments are true. [SAAS]

O holy Father Capito, you were neither intimidated nor fearful of the law. You were dressed in holy raiment. O blessed one, you carried fiery coals there. [un]

Verse: The judgments You made are true, according to all You brought on us. [SAAS]

O Capito, holy minister inspired by God, You buffeted against the power of foolishness. You established the understanding of righteousness for everyone who had fallen into the abyss of empty living. [un]

Verse: And on Jerusalem, the holy city of our fathers. [SAAS]

Theotokion.

O Maiden, the Word of God desired to reform all of mankind. He is together on one throne with the Father and with the Holy Spirit. He created Eve with his hand in the same way that He was given a beginning in your womb. [un]

Intermediate Verses of Ode Seven.

For we sinned and acted lawlessly to depart from You. We sinned in every way, and did not obey Your commandments. Neither did we treasure or do as You commanded, that it might go well with us. [SAAS]

Everything You brought on us and all You did to us, You did in true judgment. You delivered us into the hands of lawless and rebellious enemies and to an unjust king, the most evil in any land.

Now it is not for us to open our mouth, for this has become a shame and disgrace to Your servants and to those who worship You.

For Your name’s sake, do not hand us over to the end, and do not reject Your covenant. Do not withdraw Your mercy from us for the sake of Abraham, who is loved by You, and for the sake of Isaac, Your servant, and of Israel, Your holy one.

As You spoke to them, saying that You would multiply their seed as the stars of heaven, and as the sand along the seashore.

Yet we have been diminished in number, O Master, more than all the nations, and we are humbled in all the earth today because of our sins.

At this time, there is no prince, no prophet, and no leader; there is no whole burnt offering, no sacrifice, no offering, and no incense; there is no place to bear fruit before You and to find mercy.

Yet with a contrite soul and humbled spirit, may we receive mercy.

As with whole burnt offerings of rams and bulls, and as with thousands of fatted lambs, so let this be our sacrifice before You today, and may it be accomplished for those who follow You; for there is no shame for those who trust in You.

Now we are following You with all our heart, and we fear You and seek Your face. Do not put us to shame.

But deal with us according to Your kindness and according to the abundance of Your mercy.

Deliver us by Your wondrous works and give glory to Your name, O Lord.

May all those who inflict evils upon Your servants be put to shame and humiliated in their power; and let their strength be crushed.

Let them know that You alone are the Lord God and glorious over all the inhabited earth.

Now the king’s servants who cast them in did not cease to stoke the furnace with naphtha, pitch, coarse fiber, and brushwood.

The flame shot forty-nine cubits above the furnace, and it broke out and burned those it found around the furnace of the Chaldeans.

But the Angel of the Lord went down into the furnace to join Azariah and his companions, and shook off the fiery flame of the furnace.

He made the inside of the furnace to be as though a dew-laden breeze were blowing through it, so the fire did not touch them at all, or cause them pain, or trouble them.

Then the three, as if with one mouth, sang, glorified, and blessed God in the furnace, saying: [SAAS]

CHOIR

Canon 1 from the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Ode vii. Mode pl. 4. (NM) The Hebrew Children in the furnace

Παῖδες Ἑβραίων.

Verse: Blessed are You, O Lord God of our fathers, for You are praiseworthy and exalted beyond measure unto the ages. [SAAS]

O martyrs worthy of all honour, with your blood ye quenched the flame of errors. Through your prayers to Christ, deliver us from the fire that is to come, O victorious servants of the Lord. [KW]

Verse: Blessed is Your name and the temple of your glory, and You are praised exceedingly and exalted beyond measure unto the ages. [SAAS]

O triumphant martyrs, ye stopped the mouths of lions and endured the fire of torture, and now ye have been granted the true joy of heaven. Pray that we also may for ever share in this joy. [KW]

Verse: You are blessed in the holy temple of Your glory, and are highly praised and exceedingly glorious unto the ages. [SAAS]

O courageous martyrs, illumined by the fullness of the Spirit’s light, pray that the departed faithful may receive repose, and entry into Paradise, and a share in life. [KW]

Verse: Blessed are You who behold the depths and sit upon the cherubim. You are praiseworthy and exalted beyond measure unto the ages [SAAS]

Theotokion.

To thee I bring a hymn, pure Virgin. I am held fast by evil: reject me not, but grant me perfect amendment through fasting and a righteous way of life. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode vii. Mode 3. (NM) Thou hast shed dew.

Ὁ τὴν φλόγα.

Verse: Blessed are You on the throne of Your kingdom, and You are praised and exalted beyond measure unto the ages. [SAAS]

Fire and sword and wild beasts ye counted as a joy, O martyrs, and ye filled your murderers with amazement as ye sang in praise to the God of our fathers. [KW]

Verse: Blessed are You in the firmament of heaven, for You are praised and glorified unto the ages. [SAAS]

Cut in pieces and burnt, O martyrs, ye were offered as a fragrant sacrifice to Christ: intercede with Him at all times on our behalf. [KW]

Glory. For the Trinity.

I glorify one God in Trinity, Father, Son and Spirit, simple Unity, holy Triad, Source without beginning, single in Essence. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

Most holy Lady Theotokos, accept the prayers of thy servants and bring them to the God of all, that He may save us from every trial and temptation. [KW]

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

For the Martyrs.

O company of martyrs, come from heaven to our aid: bless and sanctify us as we sing your praises, that with willing hearts we may complete the season of the Fast. [KW]

Verse: Blessed are they whom You have chosen and received, O Lord. [SAAS]

For the Dead.

O God, who knowest men’s works, forgive the sins voluntary and involuntary of the faithful who have gone to dwell with Thee, and grant them rest. [KW]

Heirmos (NM). Mode 3.

Ὁ τὴν φλόγα.

Thou hast shed dew upon the furnace and saved the Children from its flames: blessed art Thou for ever, O Lord God of our fathers. [KW]

Ode viii.

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saints.

Ode viii. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Χεῖρας ἐκπετάσας Δανιήλ.

Verse: O you works, to the Lord sing a hymn, and exalt Him beyond measure unto the ages.

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

Troparia.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

O righteous Fathers, when you were slain by the suffering of the body, you became the reason of undying life for everyone that yielded to the dead gods. Those who received salvation with you always exclaim: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. [un]

Verse: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

O you faithful, let us sing with one voice of Eugene, Agathodoros, Ephrem, Elpidios, Aetherios, Basilefs, and Capito. They annihilated the adversary. They are hierarchs of Christ. To them we exclaim: Praise the Lord, all you works of the Lord. [un]

Verse: Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord, you heavens of the Lord, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

O wise Father, upon giving joy to the nations by your instructions, you have gone on to the never-ending radiance and joy. You were given the prizes for your works. You exclaimed: Praise the Lord, all you works of the Lord. [un]

Verse: Bless the Lord, all you waters above the heaven, all you powers of the Lord, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

O most blessed of mankind, because you now are clusters of the Vine of Life, you cause the wine of healings to constantly pour out. You cause the hearts of all the once who commend you with faith to be glad. These exclaim: Praise the Lord, all you works of the Lord. [un]

Verse: Bless the Lord, you sun and moon, you stars of heaven, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

Theotokion.

O pure Virgin, the One who is above all in His Essence was manifest as a man by being born of you. He is of two natures, energies, and wills. He willed to be shown to those whose image he took on. We exclaim to Him: Praise the Lord, all you works of the Lord. [un]

Intermediate Verses of Ode Eight.

Bless the Lord, every shower and dew, all you winds, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

Bless the Lord, you fire and heat, you winter cold and summer heat, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages.

Bless the Lord, you dews and snows, you frost and cold, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages.

Bless the Lord, you hoarfrosts and snows, you lightning and clouds, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages.

Bless the Lord, you light and darkness, you night and day, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages.

Bless the Lord, you earth, you mountains and hills, and all you things growing on the earth, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages.

Bless the Lord, you springs, you seas and rivers, you sea-monsters and everything that moves in the waters, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

From Triodion - - -

Canon 1 from the Triodion.

Ode viii. Mode pl. 4. (NM) Victors over fire

Νικηταὶ τυράννου.

Verse: Bless the Lord, all you birds of heaven, all you wild animals and cattle, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

After enduring many torments in the weakness of your body, O victorious martyrs, now ye are revealed as physicians of the sick. Therefore I cry: My soul is sick; heal it through repentance during the time of the Fast. [KW]

Verse: Bless the Lord, O children of men. Bless the Lord, O Israel, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

Alas! How have all my days passed by in carelessness. I have accomplished nothing good: and see, the end is near at hand. O martyrs who have fought the good fight and finished the course, pray for me, that I may make a good end. [KW]

Verse: Bless the Lord, O priests of the Lord, O servants of the Lord, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

With the drops of your blood ye quenched the fire of godlessness, O victorious martyrs: pray for those who have departed from this life, that God may grant them rest and eternal remission of their sins. [KW]

Verse: Bless the Lord, O spirits and souls of the righteous, O holy ones and humble in heart, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

Theotokion.

Ezekiel saw thee, O pure Virgin, as the gate through which none may pass; and thou openest the gates of repentance unto all those in despair. Therefore I entreat thee: open unto me the paths that lead to rest eternal. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode viii. Mode 3. (NM) Begotten as God.

Τὸν ἐξ ἀνάρχου.

Verse: Bless the Lord, O Hananiah, Azariah, and Mishael, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

Ye endured many bitter torments: some of you were burnt, others sawn asunder or cut in pieces. But now ye rejoice, O victorious martyrs, and sing to Christ: Praise, bless and exalt Him above all for ever. [KW]

Verse: Bless the Lord, O Apostles, Prophets, and Martyrs, and exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [SAAS]

Through your blood ye sanctify the ends of the earth and bring healing unto all, O martyrs blessed throughout the world, and continually ye cry aloud: Praise, bless and exalt Him above all for ever. [KW]

Verse: We bless the Lord: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; we sing a hymn to Him and exalt Him beyond measure unto the ages. [SAAS]

For the Trinity.

O Unity in three Persons, Father, Son and living Spirit, one Godhead and one Kingdom, the hosts of angels glorify Thee as the Light that never sets; and we on earth praise, bless and exalt Thee above all for ever. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

Behold, with all generations we call thee blessed, O Virgin undefiled, seeing the great things God has done to thee. For in ways surpassing nature thou hast borne the Maker of all, who is both God and man. Therefore we bless and exalt thee above all for ever. [KW]

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

For the Martyrs.

O choir of martyrs, pray for our salvation, we entreat you, and beseech the Saviour that we may offer Him true worship through our abstinence. Praise, bless and exalt Him above all for ever. [KW]

Verse: Their souls shall dwell among good things. [SAAS]

For the Dead.

To those who have fallen asleep in the true faith and in the hope of resurrection, grant, O Lord, that they may awaken to eternal life; and they will magnify Thee in sincerity and offer Thee this psalm of glory: Praise, bless and exalt Him above all for ever. [KW]

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 3.

Τὸν ἐξ ἀνάρχου.

Extol Him who is God, who before the ages was begotten from the unoriginate Father, and who in latter times put on flesh from the Theotokos. He is perfect man, and God from God. Extol Him and bless Him, and supremely exalt Him, unto all the ages. [SD]

bookmark

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 - - -

Canon for the Saints.

Ode ix. Mode 4. Heirmos.

Λίθος ἀχειρότμητος.

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

Troparia.

Saints of God, intercede for us.

As we commemorate the holy memory of the holy Hieromartyrs, with a loud shout may all of us give reverence to them with holy songs, because they supplicate to the God of all mercies on our behalf. [un]

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

O holy Martyrs, you manifested as valuable stones pulled through dirt by those without God. By the power of God you demolished the fortifications of falsehood. Therefore you deserved to be named as blessed. [un]

Verse: And has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David. [RSV]

On this day the city of Cherson commemorates your memory, because you demonstrated yourselves as her towers, holy buttresses and fortifications. You were her shepherds, instructors, and intermediaries blessed by God. [un]

Verse: As he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old. That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all who hate us. [RSV]

Eugene, Ephrem, Capito, Elpidios, Aetherios, the glorious Basilefs, and Agathodors of a godly mind, who are a chorus of Fathers, are already added to the choruses of Angels. [un]

Verse: To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant. [RSV]

Theotokion.

The Maiden who was given grace by God, as she cradled Christ in her arms, this Christ who Himself holds everything in His own hand, she exclaimed in wonder: How can I understand You to be both my Son and my Creator, You who are beyond understanding? [un]

From Triodion - - -

Canon 1 from the Triodion.

Ode ix. Mode pl. 4. (NM) Thou hast surpassed the bounds

Ὅρους παρῆλθες.

Verse: The oath which he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us that we, be[ing] delivered from the hand of our enemies. [RSV]

O brave martyrs, ye are divine coals, burning up the evil substance of godlessness. Ye have cut down the ranks of demons with the sword, and ye give light to our souls. [KW]

Verse: [That we] might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all the days of our life. [RSV]

O brave martyrs, ye have passed through the darkness of torment and gone to dwell in spiritual light: enlighten my humiliated soul that is darkened by sin. [KW]

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

The glorious martyrs endured the pain inflicted on their bodies; and now they intercede for the faithful departed, praying that they may enjoy painless repose and the delight of Paradise. [KW]

Verse: To give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God. [RSV]

Theotokion.

O all-pure Lady, come to the aid of thine unworthy servants during this season of abstinence, and bring our prayers to the Lord and King of all the ages. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode ix. Mode 3. (NM) Thou art the immortal fountain.

Σὲ τὴν ἀθάνατον.

Verse: When the day shall dawn upon us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death. [RSV]

As fire sent by God on the earth, ye have burnt up all the error of idolatry and kindled the light of the true faith in the farthest regions of the world, O martyrs of Christ. [KW]

Verse: To guide our feet into the way of peace. [RSV]

Neither flame nor slaughter, nor wheel nor rack, nor catapult nor saw nor any other torture, however bitter, could separate you from the love of Christ, O holy martyrs. [KW]

Glory. For the Trinity.

With true faith I praise the Godhead, one in three, united in Essence yet distinct in Persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit - these are one. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

Thou hast borne the Rod from the root of Jesse and of David the forefather: we magnify thee, undefiled and pure, for thou dost save our souls. [KW]

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

For the Martyrs.

O honoured multitude of martyrs, pray to Christ on our behalf, that we may complete the course of the Fast in peace, and may behold and venerate His Passion. [KW]

Verse: Blessed are they whom You have chosen and received, O Lord. [SAAS]

For the Dead.

As God of the dead and the living, who hast slain death and by Thy Rising granted life to all, give rest, O Christ, to Thy departed servants. [KW]

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 3.

Σὲ τὴν ἀθάνατον.

We ever magnify you, the immortal fountain, that through the saints gives cures and healings to the human race, for you save our souls. [SD]

It is truly right to bless you, Theotokos, ever blessed, most pure, and Mother of our God. 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]

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.

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Exaposteilarion of the Day.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 3. Having embellished heaven.

Ὁ οὐρανὸν τοῖς ἄστροις.

O only God who reposes * in those alone who are holy, * attend to the intercessions * of Prophets, Apostles, Martyrs, * and of the devout monastics, * and save us all who extol You. [SD]

For the Dead.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 3. Having embellished heaven.

Ὁ οὐρανὸν τοῖς ἄστροις.

Having, as God, authority * over the living and the dead, * give rest to Your servants * in the dwellings of the elect. * O Savior, even if they sinned, * yet they did not depart from You. [SD]

Theotokion.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 3. Having embellished heaven.

Ὁ οὐρανὸν τοῖς ἄστροις.

O sweetness of the Angels, * O joy of those in affliction, * and the protectress of Christians, * O Virgin Mother of the Lord, * come to my aid and redeem me * from the eternal torments. [SD]

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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.

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

For the Martyrs.

From Triodion - - -

Mode pl. 1.

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

Blessed is the army of the King of heaven. Even though they were but human, the medaled Martyrs strove to attain angelic rank, by disregarding their bodies. Through suffering, they were granted the honor of the bodiless hosts. By their prayers, O Lord, send down to us Your great mercy. [SD]

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

O Lord, Your medal-winning Martyrs imitated the angelic orders, by enduring the tortures as if they themselves were also bodiless. There singular hope was to obtain the promised blessings. At their intercession, grant peace to Your world, and great mercy to our souls, O Christ our God. [SD]

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

The holy Martyrs competed on the earth, endured exposure to the air, were delivered to the fire, and the water received them. To them belong the words, “We went through fire and water, and You led us into a refreshing place.” By their intercessions, O God, have mercy on us. [GOASD]

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

As the holy Martyrs were being tortured, they sang in exultation, “These will all be exchanged when we meet the Master. Instead of the physical injuries we are sustaining, He will dress us with a luminous garment in the resurrection. Instead of prison there is Paradise. And instead of being sentenced with criminals, we will be in the company of Angels.” O Lord, we pray You save our souls, at their supplications. [GOASD]

Glory. For the Dead.

You fashioned me, O Lord, and laid your hand upon me, and You commanded me and said: You shall return again to earth. Lead me in Your straight way; forgive me my offenses, and absolve me, I entreat You, O benevolent God. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Now we call you blessed, O Virgin Theotokos; for from you rose the Sun of Righteousness, namely Christ, who has the great mercy. [SD]

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Stand for the reading of the Doxology.

HIERARCH or READER

Doxology (read)

To you belongs glory, O Lord our God, and to you we send up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages.

READER: Amen.

HIERARCH or READER

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will to men. We praise you, we bless you, we worship you, we glorify you, and we thank you, for your great glory. Lord, King, Heavenly God, Father Almighty; only-begotten Son, Lord Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit. Lord God, the Lamb of God, the 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 of the Father, and have mercy on us. For you are the only Holy One, you are the only Lord, Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen. Every day I shall bless you, and I shall praise your name forever, and unto the ages of ages. Lord, you have become for us a refuge from generation to generation. I have said: Lord, have mercy on me, heal my soul, for I have sinned against you. Lord, to you I have fled; 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. Extend your mercy to those who know you. Grant, O Lord, that in this day we may be kept without sin. Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our Fathers, and praised and glorified is your name unto the ages. Amen. Let your mercy, Lord, come upon us, just as we have hoped in you. Blessed are you, O Lord, teach me your commandments. Blessed are you, O Master, make me understand your commandments. Blessed are you, O Holy One, enlighten me with your commandments. Lord, your mercy remains forever, do not turn away from the works of your hands. To you belongs praise, to you belongs a hymn, to you belongs glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. 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: 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.

CHOIR: Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

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: Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

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.

Aposticha.

From Triodion - - -

Mode pl. 1. Rejoice.

Χαίροις ἀσκητικῶν.

Settle the souls of those who have passed * where the resplendence of Your countenance shines on them, * to lie down in greenest pastures, O most compassionate Christ, * beside the still waters of divine delight. * And grant them to be at rest in the bosom of Abraham, * there where Your light is most especially visible, * and the fountains of Your benevolence overflow, * there where the choirs of the just continually celebrate, * ever extolling Your goodness, in exultation and songs of joy. * We pray You have mercy * on Your servants and You grant them to dwell with all Your saints. [GOASD]

Verse: Blessed are they whom You have chosen and received, O Lord. [SAAS]

Grant to your departed to sing * your praise, O Lord, with a voice that is harmonious, * to give glory to your great might and mercy to those who are now * taking leave of their cares * and turning to you, * O Master and loving Lord, * as you give beauty and your light, * bestowing sweetness * and communion with divine joy. * Grant as well to them * as a loving God that they may * take rest and take enjoyment of your all-holy purity. * At your throne the angels and the saints attend you with songs of praise; * with them grant your servants * your great mercy and as well, O Lord, sweet rest eternal. [RB]

Verse: And their memorial abides from generation to generation. [SAAS]

Grant rest to those asleep now in faith, * where prophets’ choirs and ranks of martyrs and apostles * and all from the ages who have been made in you justified * in your saving passion and salvific blood, * through which you redeemed humanity from our captivity, * as many sins as we commit, you forgive them all; * loving God you are, and the friend of all humankind; * for you alone are without sin, the earth you have civilized, * you alone may we call holy and you alone are made free in death; * therefore grant your servants * your great mercy and as well, O Lord, sweet rest eternal. [RB]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Lady, when you conceived in your womb * the very Giver of the Law, namely Christ the King, * O only Mother and Virgin, you freed the human race * that had been in bondage to the law of sin. * Through Him we are justified by His free gift and grace divine. * Will you implore Him to inscribe in the book of life * those extolling you as the one who gave birth to God, * so that we who are saved through your entreaties, all-blameless one, * may thus obtain what we long for, namely redemption from Christ your Son, * whom we rightly worship * as the Savior who is granting great mercy to the world. [SD]

PRIEST

It is good to give thanks to the Lord and to sing to Your name, O Most High, to proclaim Your mercy in the morning and Your truth at night. [SAAS]

READER

Trisagion Prayers.

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.

All-holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, forgive our sins. Master, pardon our transgressions. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for Your name’s sake.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

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

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

From Triodion - - -

Apolytikion.

Mode 2.

Glory.

Remember Your servants, O Lord, since You are good, and forgive them for all their sins in life; for no one is without sin except for You who are able to give rest to those who have passed away. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Holy Mother of the immaculate Light, we honor you with angelic hymns, and magnify you piously. [SD]

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: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Again we pray for pious and Orthodox Christians.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Again we pray for our Archbishop (name).

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

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.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

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.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

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.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

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.

PRIEST: Wisdom.

CHOIR: Holy master, give the blessing!

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

CHOIR: Amen.

HIERARCH or READER

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

CHOIR: Amen.

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

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

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

Dismissal

PRIEST

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

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

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

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

CHOIR: Amen.