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Triodion

Mode pl. 4. On Monday Morning

On Monday of the Fifth Week Morning

Menaion - March 23

Memory St. Nikon and his 199 Disciples

__________

MATINS

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CHOIR

Mode pl. 4.

Verse 1: My spirit rises early in the morning to You, O God, for Your commands are a light upon the earth. [SAAS]

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

Verse 2: Learn righteousness, you who dwell on the earth.

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

Verse 3: Jealousy will seize an untaught people; and now fire will devour the adversaries.

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

Verse 4: Bring more evils on them, O Lord, bring more evils on them, on the glorious of the earth.

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

From Horologion - - -

Triadic Hymns

Mode pl. 4.

With hearts in heaven, let us emulate the Angels, and in fear let us bow before the impartial Judge, as we shout the triumphal praise: Holy, holy, holy are You, O God. By the protection of the Bodiless Hosts have mercy on us. [SD]

Glory.

Daring not to look at You, the Cherubim in flight jubilantly cry out the inspired melody of the Thrice-holy Hymn. We sinners join them and also sing: Holy, holy, holy are You, O God. By the intercessions of the Saints save us. [SD]

Both now.

Bent down by our many offenses, we dare not gaze at Your height. Rather we bow our soul along with our body, and we shout the hymn of the Angels to You: Holy, holy, holy are You, O God. Through the Theotokos have mercy on us. [SD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 4. There is no litany, but immediately the following:

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CHOIR

Kathisma I.

From Triodion - - -

For compunction.

Mode pl. 4.

O Lord, I beg You look at my low condition with a compassionate expression. For my life is passing little by little, and I have not done anything to merit salvation. Therefore I implore You: O Lord, look at my low condition with a compassionate expression, and save me. [GOASD]

Verse: O Lord, do not rebuke me in Your wrath, nor chasten me in Your anger. [SAAS]

As if the Judge were present, be anxious, O my soul, and keep in mind the thought of the hour of that fearful day. For the judgment is merciless to those who showed no mercy. So before the end cry aloud, “Spare me, O my Savior, for You are supremely benevolent.” [GOASD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

O immaculate Theotokos, as the intelligible Gate of life, rescue from peril those who run to you with faith, so that we may glorify your all-holy childbirth, for the salvation of our souls. [SD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 5. Then the short litany.

DEACON

Again and again in peace let us pray 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

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

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For You are 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

From Triodion - - -

Kathisma II. From the Triodion.

Mode 3. (NM)

Τὴν ὡραιότητα.

The most beautiful of seasons is at hand, the much praised day of abstinence has dawned. Let us make haste, brethren, to be cleansed, that we may appear in purity before our Maker and share in His beauty, at the prayers of her who bore Him, the only pure Mother of God. [KW]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 3. Automelon.

Τὴν ὡραιότητα.

You were so beautiful in your virginity. * Archangel Gabriel admired your purity, * which was resplendent; and amazed, he said to you, Theotokos, * “As there are no accolades that can worthily honor you, * I am at a loss for words to address you, so awed am I. * But I will say what I was commanded: * Rejoice, O favored Maiden full of grace!” [SD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 6. 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 blessed is Your name, and glorified is Your kingdom, of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

CHOIR

From Triodion - - -

Kathisma III. From the Triodion.

Grave Mode.

O Lord, Thou hast granted us to reach the present day, on which in radiant light we commence the holy week of the dread raising of Lazarus from the tomb. Count us Thy servants worthy to walk in Thy fear, and to complete the whole course of the Fast. [KW]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

All-Holy Virgin, thou art greater in honour than the glorious cherubim. Unable to endure the divine splendour, they veil their faces with their wings as they perform their ministry; but thou dost gaze with thine own eyes upon the Incarnate Word. Without ceasing pray to Him for our souls. [KW]

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READER

Lord, have mercy. (3)

Glory. Both now.

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]

PRIEST

O God, save Your people and bless Your inheritance. Look upon Your world with mercy and compassion. Raise the Orthodox Christians in glory, and send down upon us Your rich mercies:

through the intercessions of our all-immaculate Lady Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary, by the power of the precious and life-giving Cross, the protection of the honorable, heavenly, bodiless powers, the supplications of the honorable, glorious prophet and forerunner John the Baptist, the holy, glorious, and praiseworthy apostles, our fathers among the saints, the great hierarchs and ecumenical teachers Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom; Athanasius, Cyril, and John the Merciful, patriarchs of Alexandria, Nicholas, bishop of Myra, Spyridon, bishop of Trimythous, Nektarios of Pentapolis, the wonderworkers; the holy, glorious, great martyrs George the triumphant, Demetrios the myrrh-streamer, Theodore the soldier, and Theodore the general; Menas the wonderworker; Charalampus and Eleutherius, the hieromartyrs; the holy, glorious, and victorious martyrs; the glorious great Martyr and all-laudable Euphemia; the holy and glorious Martyrs Thecla, Barbara, Anastasia, Catherine, Kyriaki, Photini, Marina, Paraskevi and Irene; our venerable and God-bearing fathers; (local patron saint); the holy and righteous ancestors of God Joachim and Anna; and all Your saints:

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (12)

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

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 righteous Nikon, you overcame the deviser of evils in ascetical wrestlings. You were crowned with beauty as a victorious athlete. Now you stand in the presence of God and pray for us who honor you, [un]

Verse: Let us sing to the Lord, for He is greatly glorified. Horse and rider He has thrown into the sea. [SAAS]

Verse: The Lord became my helper and the shield of my salvation; He is my God, and I will glorify Him; my father’s God, and I will exalt Him. [SAAS]

O blessed one, you were made strong with the might of Him that has given strength to our infirmity. You first triumphed in wars. Then, when you became a victor, you hastened to the Baptism of Christ. [un]

Verse: The Lord brings wars to nothing; the Lord is His name. Pharaoh’s chariots and army He cast into the sea. [SAAS]

O wise Nikon, the most blessed company of your disciples was adorned with martyrdom. They were made to shine beforehand in asceticism. In twofold wrestlings they wove twofold crowns. [un]

Verse: The sea covered them; they sank to the bottom like a stone. [SAAS]

Theotokion.

O Lord, the portal of Your condescension towards us gave birth beyond nature to You, the God-man, twofold in nature. You are mystically called Orient, Sun and Light. [un]

(read)

Intermediate Verses of Ode One.

Your right hand, O God, is glorified in strength; Your right hand, O God, dashed the enemy in pieces. In the greatness of Your glory You broke the adversaries to pieces. [SAAS]

You sent forth Your wrath; it consumed them like stubble.

By the Spirit of Your anger the waters were gathered together; the waves stood upright in the midst of the sea; the depths congealed in the heart of the sea.

The enemy said, ‘I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoils; I will satisfy my soul; I will destroy with my sword; my hand shall have dominion.’

You sent forth Your Spirit; the sea covered them; they sank like lead in the mighty waters.

Who is like You, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like You, glorified in holiness, marvelous in praises, doing wonders?

You stretched out Your right hand; the earth swallowed them up.

In righteousness You guided Your people whom You redeemed; in strength You called them to Your holy resting place.

The nations heard and were angry; pangs seized the inhabitants of Philistia. [SAAS]

(sung)

From Triodion - - -

Canon 1 from the Triodion.

Ode i. Mode 3. (NM)

Ὁ τὰ ὕδατα.

Verse: The princes of Edom and the chiefs of the Moabites were dismayed; trembling took hold of them; all the inhabitants of Canaan melted away. [SAAS]

Tilling the soil of our mind with the divine ploughshare of the holy Fast, let us reap the sheaf of virtues: then we shall not hunger in eternity, but will rejoice in gladness with a joy that has no end. [KW]

Verse: Fear and dread fell upon them; by the greatness of Your arm, let them become as stone. [SAAS]

I bear within me the passions of many years, that darken my unhappy soul; but with contrite heart I fall down before Thine unconquerable power, O timeless Word of the eternal Father, and I pray: Take pity on me and save me. [KW]

Verse: Till Your people pass over, O Lord, till Your people pass over, whom You purchased. [SAAS]

Thy holy Fast feeds our hearts, ripening within us thoughts acceptable to God, and causing the deep abyss of our passions to dry up; and with the rain of compunction it cleanses those who in faith offer praise to the Almighty. [KW]

Verse: The sanctuary, O Lord, which Your hands established. [SAAS]

Theotokion.

Rejoice, holy Virgin, Maiden of many names: Mary Mother of God, glory of the faithful, deliverance from the curse, heavenly ladder, wonder past understanding, bush unburnt, earth untilled. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode i. Grave Mode. (NM) Let us sing a song

ᾌσωμεν τῷ Κυρίῳ.

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

Now that we have venerated the lifegiving Wood, with gladness let us advance upon the path of the Fast to the Passion of Christ. [KW]

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

Following Christ, let us deny the world and take the Cross upon our shoulders, sharing in His divine suffering. [KW]

Glory. For the Trinity.

Let us all sing the praises of the Godhead, supreme in Essence, one in three Persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

O pure Virgin that hast not known corruption, pray to Jesus our Saviour whom thou hast borne in ways past understanding, that He maybe merciful to thy servants. [KW]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

When Thou comest, O Christ, in glory with the angels to judge the whole world, enable us to make a good answer before Thee. [KW]

Heirmos (NM). Grave Mode.

ᾌσωμεν τῷ Κυρίῳ.

Let us sing a song of triumph to the Lord, who drowned all the power of Pharaoh in the sea: for He is glorified. [KW]

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 Martyr of Christ, you girded yourself for spiritual warfare. You armed a divine host for the struggles of contest. [un]

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

O Martyr of Christ, you girded yourself for spiritual warfare. You armed a divine host for the struggles of contest. [un]

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

O most glorious Nikon, you previously crucified the flesh in asceticism. You were diligent to turn back the demons’ troops in defeat with the scourges of martyric contests. [un]

Glory.

O Nikon, you departed from the East like a star, and you reached the West. You set in your dying and arose to Christ. [un]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Master, a company of Martyrs portrayed in themselves Your slaughter. They recognized You as the One who sprang forth from a Maiden who did not know wedlock. [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 (Your confession.)

Θείας πίστεως.

O righteous Nikon, a great light shone forth within your pure heart through the godly words of your mother. You were enlightened by Baptism sacredly. You were enrolled with the company of the monks. You became a light and guide for your followers, for whom you intercede with Christ that His great mercy may be granted unto us. [un]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 3. Your confession.

You in purity surpass the Angels; * therefore you became the tabernacle * of the Logos, O immaculate Mother of God. * But as for me, I surpass everybody else * in the pollutions resulting from sins of the flesh. * With the waters of your intercession wash away my filth, * All-holy Maid, and grant me the great mercy. [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.

O praiseworthy Martyr Nikon, you delighted in the divine emissions of light. You passed unharmed through the floods of torments. You have worthily received the crown of victory. [un]

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

O praiseworthy Martyr Nikon, you delighted in the divine emissions of light. You passed unharmed through the floods of torments. You have worthily received the crown of victory. [un]

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

You were distinguished in illustrious acts of courage. You first contended as an ascetic. You mortified the passions of the body. Then by contest, you turned back the hordes of the demons. [un]

Glory.

O godly-minded Martyrs, you ranged yourselves against the enemy with the weapon of true religion. By dying you received undying glory, while chanting: Glory to Your strength, O Lord. [un]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Virgin Mother, the Creator loved you. You are higher than all creation. He showed you forth as His Mother, whom the companies of the athletes fittingly entreat. [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 Nikon, obedient to your mother’s divine admonitions, you had the power of the Cross in battles. You were initiated into more excellent things. [un]

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

O Nikon, obedient to your mother’s divine admonitions, you had the power of the Cross in battles. You were initiated into more excellent things. [un]

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

O godly-minded and all-venerable Father, your life was ablaze with the light of virtues. It has your contest as a most majestic adornment. [un]

Glory.

Obedient to the laws of the Sovereign Godhead, the Martyrs triumphed. They put the lawless to flight with the help of a divine alliance. [un]

Both now. Theotokion.

O all-blameless Virgin, you gave birth for our sakes unto the timeless Light, Who is the Father’s Effulgence. He became subject to time in the riches of His goodness. [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.

O godly-minded Nikon, like a very bright sun you set out from the East. You led the choir of your disciples like stars. You enlightened the West with your rays. [un]

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

O godly-minded Nikon, like a very bright sun you set out from the East. You led the choir of your disciples like stars. You enlightened the West with your rays. [un]

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

O Martyr, you washed away seas of polytheism with the drops of your blood. In the ocean of your struggles, you drowned the terrible and utterly evil author of wickedness. [un]

Glory.

O God-inspired victorious Athletes, you bloomed as lilies in the meadow of the virtues. Like sweet-smelling roses, you make our hearts fragrant with the beauty of your martyrdom. [un]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Lady, knowing you to be a temple and living palace of God, the chorus of victorious martyrs entreats you. You alone have taken away reproach from women. [un]

Heirmos.

Ode 6: Short Litany

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

From Triodion - - -

READER

For the Martyrs. Mode pl. 4.

Holy Martyrs, you were shown to be spiritual luminaries; for by faith you ended the fogginess of error, you brightened the lamps of our souls, and with glory you entered the celestial bridal hall with the Bridegroom. Now we pray you entreat Him to save our souls. [SD]

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Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On March 23 we commemorate the holy Martyr Nicon and the 199 Martyrs who were his disciples.

On this day Saint Dometios died by the sword.

The holy New Monastic Martyr Luke witnessed in Mytilene in the year 1802 and died by hanging.

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 godly-minded Nikon, you were tried more than gold with tortures. You were manifested as a tower of virtue. You fended off the forays of the demons. You cried out: Blessed are You in the temple of Your glory, O Lord. [un]

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

O Martyr, after your end, your body, which had been secretly cast away, sent forth divine beams of healings. It drove away the harm of the demon, which made you known under constraint by the Divine Spirit and Creator. [un]

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

O glorious and all-blessed Nikon, you were entirely sweetened with divine inclinations. You surrendered your body to tortures with fortitude. You longed to stand crowned before the Almighty in the Heavens. [un]

Glory.

O wise Father, you were a shepherd of rational sheep. You kept the fold safe from the harm of noetic wolves. With your flock you have made your dwelling in the heavenly mansion. You stand in the presence of the Master of all. [un]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Maiden, without altering your virginity at all, the Logos of the Father dwelt in you. He drew to Himself a celebrated choir of Martyrs who proclaimed you to be the pure Mother of God. [un]

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 Nikon, you vigilantly bore the torch of your heart. You were fueled with streams of tears and the blood of contest. You abide now in the bridal chamber not built by hands, as you cry: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord. [un]

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

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 righteous Nikon, you were shown to be an adornment of ascetics and of athletes. You were approved among both. Over the only enemy you raised trophies that astonish the mind, while shouting: O all you works, praise 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 righteous Father, you watered souls with your blood. You roused them to divine zeal. With the marks of the sword, you wounded the array of the demons. You confirmed in yourself the truth of your name and cried out: O all you works of the Lord, bless 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 immaculate and all-hymned Virgin, break into pieces the heavy yoke of my falls into sin. At your conceiving you reversed the fall of Adam. Guide me with your light to cry with a pure mind: O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord. [un]

(read)

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]

(sung)

From Triodion - - -

Canon 1 from the Triodion.

Ode viii. Mode 3. (NM)

Βαβυλωνία κάμινος.

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]

Led astray by the harmful deceptions of the serpent, beguiled in my mind, each day I add new anguish to my pain. And so I cry to Thee, O Saviour: Physician of the sick, come to me and save me. [KW]

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

Strengthened in spirit by fasting, Elisha once raised up the child of the Shunnamite. We have been killed by the pleasures of passion: through the lifegiving Fast, O ye faithful, let us regain life once more. [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]

In Thy compassion, O Lord who lovest mankind, of old Thou hast saved the men of Nineveh when they repented with tears and fasting. In Thy mercy do Thou take pity also upon us, for we are at a loss how to confess Thee through our actions. [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.

O pure and blameless Virgin, who hast remained without corruption after bearing child, we pray thee, deliver from corruption thy servants who sing to thee with faith in unity of soul: O ye works of the Lord, bless ye the Lord. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode viii. Grave Mode. (NM) He is the Lord

Τὸν φοβερὸν τοῖς Χερουβίμ.

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

With God’s help we have rounded the turning post of the Fast. Let us run the remainder of the course with all our strength, and win a victor’s crown. [KW]

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

Seeing my sickly soul barren of fruit, be patient, O Christ, and do not cut me down like the fig tree Thou hast cursed. [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.

Trinity all-sovereign, Unity in three Persons, Father, Son and Spirit, deliver from every danger and temptation those who sing of Thee. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

Hail, Mountain of God; hail, ever-shining Lamp; hail, new Heaven; hail, Mind bright as lightning; hail, Temple of the Lord; hail, worthy of all praise. [KW]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

When I think of the dread trial before Thee, O Christ, I am filled with fear and trembling, and I cry: There is no limit to Thy great mercy; save me in my wretchedness. [KW]

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Heirmos (NM). Grave Mode.

Τὸν φοβερὸν τοῖς Χερουβίμ.

He is the Lord and Maker of the world, who fills the cherubim with awe and the seraphim with wonder: O ye priests and servants and spirits of the righteous, sing His praises. [KW]

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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.

O Nikon, the Awarder of crowns beheld you in garlands with the beauty of your wounds and mantled with the purple of your martyric blood. He brought you to dwell with Him in divine gladness. [un]

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

O Nikon, how beautiful was the longing you had for the Lord. How fervent was your zeal, blazing with divine fire. How wondrous was your contest, which united you to those of Heaven! [un]

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

The hosts of athletes possess you as a great sun in the height of the Church. As stars flooded with divine light, they make the whole world bright with beams of dazzling splendor. [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]

O Martyr, you have been taken up to the undefiled mansions. You present a choir of two hundred athletes before the Lord who awards the crowns. With them, remember those who keep your sacred memorial today. [un]

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

Theotokion.

O all-pure Virgin Mother, you became the dwelling of the Light. He was born of you for our sake. Continually ask Him to enlighten us who praise you with hymns and declare you to be the Mother of God. [un]

From Triodion - - -

Canon 1 from the Triodion.

Ode ix. Mode 3. (NM)

Καινὸν τὸ θαῦμα.

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]

The grace of the Fast has filled a divine cup with the wine of compunction, and it calls together all the faithful, crying out clearly: Come and partake with gladness, laying aside the drunkenness of the passions, that ye may be counted worthy of the joy to come. [KW]

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

The judgement is at hand: give heed, my soul. Be attentive to thy conscience, doing what is right, and it will always keep thee uncondemned. For if we have judged ourselves in this present life, we shall not lack witnesses to plead on our behalf at the Judgement in the Age to come, when the guilty are condemned. [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]

Principalities and powers, thrones, seraphim and dominions, authorities and cherubim, angels and archangels: pray to God that we may complete the time of the Fast, doing what is acceptable to Him, that as servants who have pleased Him we may share in glory. [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.

With the martyrs and the prophets and all the saints, Thy Mother intercedes on behalf of us Thy servants who have angered Thee; accept her prayers, for Thou alone lovest mankind, O Christ our Master before whom the hosts of heaven tremble. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode ix. Grave Mode. (NM) Mother beyond nature

Τὴν ὑπὲρ φύσιν Μητέρα.

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]

Sailing through the calm waters of the Fast with the fair wind of the Spirit, let us pray that we may reach the haven of Christ’s Passion. [KW]

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

Like the woman of Canaan, I cry aloud to Thee: Have mercy on me, O God, Thou Son of David; heal my sick soul, as Thou hast healed her daughter. [KW]

Glory. For the Trinity.

Let us sing the praises of the divine Nature, Unity in three Persons, Father, Son and Spirit. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

Thou hast conceived within thy womb the Word uncircumscribed, and without seed thou hast borne Him in the flesh: pray fervently for the salvation of our souls. [KW]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Thou hast justified the Publican when he cried: ‘Be merciful to me.’ Grant Thy mercy also unto me a sinner, O Judge of all, and forgive me my offences. [KW]

Heirmos (NM). Grave Mode.

Τὴν ὑπὲρ φύσιν Μητέρα.

Mother beyond nature and Virgin by nature, she alone is blessed among women: let us and all the faithful, as is right, magnify her with our songs. [KW]

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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Photagogic Hymns

From Horologion - - -

Mode pl. 4.

You are the light, O Christ. In yourself illumine me, by the protection of the Bodiless Hosts, and save me. [SD]

You are the light, O Christ. In yourself illumine me, by the intercessions of the Saints, and save me. [SD]

You are the light, O Christ. In yourself illumine me, by the intercessions of the Theotokos, and save me. [SD]

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READER

Lauds. (read)

Psalm 148.

Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise Him in the highest. Praise Him, all you His angels; praise Him, all you His hosts. 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. [SAAS]

Psalm 149.

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. [SAAS]

Psalm 150.

Praise God in His saints; praise Him in the firmament of His power; praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to the abundance of His greatness. Praise Him with the sound of a trumpet; praise Him with the harp and lyre; praise Him with timbrel and dance; praise Him with strings and flute; praise Him with resounding cymbals; praise Him with triumphant cymbals; let everything that breathes praise the Lord. Alleluia. [SAAS]

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

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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 the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Idiomelon. Mode pl. 4.

I am like the man who fell among thieves, O Master of all, for I have fallen among my sins and have been cruelly wounded by them. Yet leave me not without healing, O Lord who camest not from Samaria but from the pure Virgin. Jesus, Name that means salvation, have mercy upon me. [KW]

Verse: We were filled with Your mercy in the morning, and in all our days we greatly rejoiced and were glad; gladden us in return for the days You humbled us, for the years we saw evil things. And behold Your servants and Your works, and guide their sons. [SAAS]

For the Martyrs.

Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

Τί ὑμᾶς καλέσωμεν.

Verse: And let the brightness of the Lord our God be upon us, and prosper for us the works of our hands. [SAAS]

What are we to call you, O holy ones? * Cherubim, inasmuch as Christ has found repose in you. * Seraphim, for without ceasing you were glorifying Him. * Or Angels, from the body you had turned away. * Or Powers, you are active doing miracles. * Your names are many, and greater are * the spiritual gifts that you received. * So intercede, we entreat you, that our souls be saved. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 4.

All in heaven sing your praises, O unwedded Mother who are full of grace. And we also glorify you and your incomprehensible childbirth. O Theotokos, intercede for the salvation of our souls. [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.

READER

Standing in your glorious church, O Theotokos, we think we are standing in heaven. O heavenly Gate, open to us the door of your mercy.

Lord, have mercy. (40)

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

In the name of the Lord, Father, bless!

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

PRIEST

O heavenly King, uphold our rulers, strengthen the Faith, calm the nations, give peace to the world. Protect this holy Church (or, Monastery); grant our departed fathers and brethren that they may dwell with the righteous, and accept us in repentance and confession; for You are good and benevolent.

We now make three prostrations: i.e. we recite the Prayer of St. Ephrem (quietly or mentally), and with each verse we make a bow or prostration.

While it has become customary for this prayer to be recited by someone aloud, nevertheless the indicated practice is that it be recited inaudibly and mentally by everyone, clergy and congregants alike, with the accompanying bows etc.

Prayer of St. Ephrem

O Lord and Master of my life, do not permit the spirit of laziness and meddling, the lust for power and idle talk to come into me.

Instead, grant me, Your servant, the spirit of prudence, humility, patience and love.

Yes, Lord and King, give me the power to see my own faults and not to judge my brother. For You are blessed unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Then we make the sign of the cross 12 times, each time saying, “God, be gracious to me a sinner and have mercy on me.” Then we repeat the third verse of the Prayer (quietly or mentally) and make a final bow or prostration.

Yes, Lord and King, give me the power to see my own faults and not to judge my brother. For You are blessed unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Then we begin the First Hour, saying: “Come let us worship…”

or:

READER

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.