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Octoechos - Mode 2.

On Sunday Morning

Menaion - December 6

Memory of Saint Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra

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MATINS

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CHOIR

Mode 2.

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

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

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

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

From Octoechos - - -

Resurrectional Apolytikion.

Mode 2.

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

Glory. For the Saint.

Mode 4.

A rule of faith are you, and an icon of gentleness, and a teacher of self-control. And to your flock this was evident, by the truth of your life and deeds. You were humble and therefore you acquired exalted gifts, treasure in heaven for being poor. O Father and Hierarch St. Nicholas, intercede with Christ our God, and entreat Him to save our souls. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 4.

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

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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Kathisma I. Resurrectional.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 2.

When he took down Your immaculate Body from the Cross, the honorable Joseph wrapped it in a clean linen shroud with spices and laid it for burial in a new tomb. But on the third day You rose, O Lord, and granted to the world the great mercy. [GOASD]

Glory. For the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. The soldiers..

Τὸν τάφον σου Σωτήρ.

You brightly shine on earth with the rays of your wonders, * inciting every tongue to sing praises and glory * of God who has glorified you on earth, O wise Nicholas. * Pray Him earnestly, as one select of the fathers, * that we who keep your feast with faith and love be delivered * from every necessity. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 2.

All surpassing every thought, all surpassing glorious, O Theotokos, are your mysteries. With your chastity sealed and your virginity preserved, still you are a mother in truth, for to the true God you gave birth. We pray you fervently entreat Him to save our souls. [GOASD]

From Octoechos - - -

Kathisma II. Resurrectional.

Mode 2.

Not preventing the sealing of the stone of the tomb, with Your rising You gave to all the rock of the faith. Glory to You, O Lord. [GOASD]

Glory. For the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. You revealed yourself today.

Ἐπεφάνης σήμερον.

Blessed father Nicholas, * you are a foremost defender * of the faithful, guard and shield, * Ven’rable saint, and it is clear * that you redeem them from every woe, * O finest honor and glory of hierarchs. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

From Menaion - - -

As the ready advocate * for those who trust you, * overlook me not, I pray, * but from the perils set me free, * O Theotokos, the help of all, * and for the needy, defense unassailable. [SD]

Kathisma III. For the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Ταχὺ προκατάλαβε.

O Nicholas, manifestly you protected the Church * of Christ with the utmost zeal, refuting godless beliefs * and doctrines of heresies, * censuring them with candor. * And for all you were clearly * Orthodoxy’s rule of faith and great intercessor * for all who would follow your divine teachings and conferences. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Be swift to accept our fervent prayers, O Lady and Queen, * and take them, all-blameless Maiden, and present them for us * before your own Son and God. * Rescue from every trouble * those who run to your shelter. * Frustrate the machinations and humble the boldness * of the godless who against your servants have taken arms. [SD]

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Resurrectional Evlogetaria.

Mode pl. 1.

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

When the hosts of the Angels saw how You were accounted among the dead, they all marveled. You, O Savior, are the One who destroyed the might of death; and when You arose You raised Adam with yourself and from Hades liberated everyone. [SD]

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

“Why do you mingle the ointments with your tears full of pity, O women disciples?” Thus the Angel who was shining in the tomb cried to the myrrh-bearing women. “See for yourselves the empty tomb and understand, that the Savior has risen from the sepulcher.”

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

Very early in the morning, the myrrh-bearing women were hastening to Your tomb lamenting. But the Angel appeared to them and uttered, “The time for lamentation has ended; weep no more. Go announce the Resurrection to the Apostles.”

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

When the myrrh-bearing women had come with their spices to Your sepulcher, O Savior, they heard the voice of an Angel clearly speaking to them, “Why do you account among the dead the One who lives? For as God, He has risen from the sepulcher.”

Glory.

We bow down in worship to the Father and His Son and the Holy Spirit, the Holy Trinity, one in essence; and we cry aloud with the Seraphim: Holy, Holy, Holy are You, O Lord.

Both now.

Giving birth to the Giver of life, O Virgin, you delivered Adam from sin, and to Eve you have rendered joy in place of sorrow. He who from you became incarnate, God and man, has directed to life him who fell from it.

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

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.

READER

From Octoechos - - -

Hypakoe. Mode 2.

After Your Passion, O Christ God, the women went to the tomb to anoint Your body. They saw Angels in the sepulcher, and they were amazed. For they heard them saying that You the Lord had risen, granting to the world the great mercy. [GOASD]

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CHOIR

Anavathmoi.

Antiphon 1. Mode 2.

I direct the eyes of my heart to You in heaven, O Savior. Save me, I pray, shining on me Your resplendence. [GOASD]

Have mercy on us who hourly offend You in many things, O my Christ; and before the end, give us ways to return to You in repentance. [GOASD]

Glory. Both now.

To the Holy Spirit it is proper to rule, to sanctify, and to move all creation; for He is God, one in essence with the Father and the Logos. [GOASD]

Antiphon 2.

If the Lord had not been with us, who would be sufficient to preserve himself uninjured from the enemy and murderer of mankind? [GOASD]

Do not deliver me to the teeth of my enemies, O Savior, for in the manner of a lion they move against me Your servant. [GOASD]

Glory. Both now.

In the Holy Spirit is the principle of life, and to Him belongs the honor. He is God, and in the Father through the Son He strengthens and sustains every creature. [GOASD]

Antiphon 3.

Those who trust in the Lord are like the holy mountain. They are in no way shaken by the devil’s assaults. [GOASD]

Let those who live for God never stretch out their hands in lawlessness. For Christ will not permit the rod to be upon His inheritance. [GOASD]

Glory. Both now.

From the Holy Spirit all wisdom gushes forth, as does grace to Apostles. By Him Martyrs are awarded for their contests, and Prophets have visions. [GOASD]

Prokeimenon.

Awaken, O Lord my God, in the ordinance You commanded, so the congregation of the peoples shall surround You. (2)

Verse: O Lord my God in You I hope.

Awaken, O Lord my God, in the ordinance You commanded, so the congregation of the peoples shall surround You. [SAAS]

Eothinon Gospel (Not EP / GOA)

Stand for the Gospel reading.

DEACON: Let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Mode 2.

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

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Wisdom. Arise. Let us hear the holy Gospel.

PRIEST: Peace be with all.

CHOIR: And with your spirit.

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PRIEST

The reading is from the holy Gospel according to Luke.

DEACON: Let us be attentive.

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

PRIEST (from the altar table)

Eothinon 5

Luke. 24:12 – 35

At that time, Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home wondering at what had happened. And behold, two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk, looking sad?” Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since this happened. Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find his body; and they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb, and found it just as the women had said; but him they did not see.” And he said to them, “O foolish men, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He appeared to be going further, but they constrained him, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they recognized him; and he vanished out of their sight. They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the scriptures?” And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven gathered together and those who were with them, who said, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread. [RSV]

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

READER

Having beheld the Resurrection of Christ, let us worship the holy Lord Jesus, the only sinless one. Your Cross, O Christ, we venerate, and Your holy Resurrection we praise and glorify. For You are our God; apart from You we know no other; we call upon Your name. Come, all faithful, let us venerate the holy Resurrection of Christ; for behold, through the Cross, joy has come to the whole world. Ever blessing the Lord, let us praise His Resurrection; for having endured the Cross for us, He destroyed death by death. [GOA]

CHOIR

Psalm 50 (51).

Mode 2. (or the Mode of the week)

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. And have mercy on me, O God. [SAAS]

Glory.

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

Both now.

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

Verse: Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your great mercy; and according to the abundance of Your compassion, blot out my transgression.

Jesus, having risen from the grave as He foretold, has granted us eternal life and great mercy. [SD]

PRIEST

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

through the intercessions of our all-immaculate Lady Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary, by the power of the precious and life-giving Cross, the protection of the honorable, heavenly, bodiless powers, the supplications of the honorable, glorious prophet and forerunner John the Baptist, the holy, glorious, and praiseworthy apostles, our fathers among the saints, the great hierarchs and ecumenical teachers Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom; Athanasius, Cyril, and John the Merciful, patriarchs of Alexandria, Spyridon, bishop of Trimythous, the wonderworker; 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; our Father among the Saints Nicholas the Wonder-worker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, whose memory we celebrate; and all Your saints:

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (12)

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Ode 1: Octoechos: Canon-1

The Canon

From Octoechos - - -

CHOIR

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode i. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἐν βυθῷ κατέστρωε.

Long ago the overwhelming Force * utterly destroyed the chariots and army of Pharaoh within the Sea. * Now the Logos put on flesh * and He wiped out malignant sin and its burdens all. * He is Lord, forever glorious, and He is greatly glorified. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Good One, disobeying Your command, * we were sadly registered to the ruler of this world as his property. * By Your Cross is he condemned; * for assaulting You as if merely a mortal man, * he fell into Your authority, and he was rendered powerless. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Master, You have come into the world * as Redeemer of the human race and as the Author of immortal life. * For You shredded shrouds of death * by Your resurrection, which we all now glorify. * For You are forever glorious, and You are greatly glorified. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Unto the Creator you gave birth, * when in His good pleasure He became incarnate, O Maid, in your virgin womb. * Hence you are superior * to creation all, invisible and visible. * Intercede with Him with confidence, entreating Him to save our souls. [SD]

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (Long ago the overwhelming Force.)

Ἐν βυθῷ κατέστρωε.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Wearing your crown, all-wise Nicholas, ⁄ you stand with the angels before the throne of Christ! ⁄ Enlighten the darkness of my soul, ⁄ that I may rejoice, and praise your all-blessed memory. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

The Lord, who glorifies all who glorify Him, ⁄ has given you as a refuge to the faithful, Nicholas. ⁄ You deliver from temptation those who run to your protection; ⁄ who call on you with faith and love. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The wholly evil serpent stole me from the Creator, ⁄ taking me prisoner by giving me the desire to be equal to God. ⁄ I have been called back and truly made divine by you, pure One, ⁄ For you, Theotokos, gave birth to Him who has made me like God! [OCA]

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. N/M (Christ is born.)

Χριστὸς γεννᾶται.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

I come before you, Nicholas, ⁄ for your greatness is divine. ⁄ My tongue and lips are not equal to offer you even a short hymn of praise. ⁄ But you are the giver of riches: ⁄⁄ Give me the Savior and God of mercies! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You appeared on earth as the equal of the angels, ⁄ heavenly mortal, Father Nicholas. ⁄ You were a great protector of widows, ⁄ an avenger of the oppressed, ⁄⁄ and a help in danger for all the afflicted. [OCA]

Glory. For the Trinity.

I venerate the uncreated Trinity, ⁄ Father, Son and Spirit, ⁄ simple essence and divinity, ⁄⁄ three Persons whose nature is not severed in substance. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

You conceived the Word, undefiled one, ⁄ and gave birth to Him in the flesh ⁄ while remaining after childbirth as you were before. ⁄ Since He is your son and God, ⁄⁄ ever pray to Him on our behalf. [OCA]

Ode 1: Katavasia

Ode i. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Christ is born! Glorify Him! * Christ is come from heaven! Go and meet Him! * Christ is on earth! Arise to Him! * Sing to the Lord, all you inhabitants of earth, and all you peoples, praise Him, * and with merriment extol Him who is glorified! [GOASD]

Ode 3: Octoechos: Canon-1

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode iii. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἐξήνθησεν ἡ ἔρημος.

The gentile church was formerly like the barren wilderness; * and then it blossomed as the rose * and the lily, when You appeared on earth. * My heart is established in Your Advent, O Lord. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Creation, at Your Passion, Lord, was confounded when it saw * that You, who had established all * by divine bidding, were in outward form * humiliated and sneered at by lawless men. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

You fashioned me from dust, O Christ, * in Your image, with Your hand. * When I through sin was crushed again * to the dust of death, You went down with me * into Hades and raised me up again with You. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O Virgin, the angelic hosts * were amazed that you gave birth * to God, O all-immaculate; * and the hearts of the people shook in awe. * With faith we honor you as the Mother of God. [SD]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (The gentile church.)

Ἐξήνθησεν ἡ ἔρημος.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

As a true disciple of the Master, blessed Nicholas, ⁄ you preserve from great dangers and bitter death ⁄⁄ all those who run to you. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

As a true disciple of the Master, blessed Nicholas, ⁄ you preserve from great dangers and bitter death ⁄⁄ all those who run to you. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

By the intercessions of Your servant Nicholas, ⁄ O God of many mercies, ⁄ grant Your servants remission of their sins, ⁄⁄ and cleanse them, O Good One. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Calm the tumult of my passions, Queen, ⁄ and direct my life, ⁄⁄ for you bore Christ, in whom my heart is established! [OCA]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. N/M (To the Son, begotten.)

Τῷ πρὸ τῶν αἰώνων.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Divinely wise one, ⁄ you acquired a tablet in your heart ⁄ inscribed with many virtues ⁄ by the immortal and all-pure finger of Christ your God. ⁄ And from your words, ⁄⁄ You let fall a sweetness sweeter than honey and the honeycomb! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Grace has shown forth wonders in you! ⁄ for the radiance of your way of life, Nicholas, ⁄ is indeed brighter than any gold, ⁄⁄ and it enlightens souls with the radiance of the Spirit of God. [OCA]

Glory. For the Trinity.

My life has been polluted by immeasurable faults; ⁄ be merciful to me, our God, ⁄ all-holy Trinity, Father, Son and living Spirit. ⁄⁄ keep me ever safe from affliction. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

You give your servants hope of salvation Theotokos! ⁄ Be present with your speedy intercessions ⁄ to guard and keep us in necessities and dangers, ⁄⁄ for you, Bride of God, are the glory of the faithful! [OCA]

Ode 3: Katavasia

Ode iii. Katavasia. Mode 1.

To the Son, begotten from the Father unchangingly before the ages, * and now becoming incarnate from the Virgin without seed; * to Christ God let us cry aloud, * “You have exalted the horn of our strength. * Only You are holy, O Lord!” [GOASD]

Ode 3: Short Litany

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Secondary Kontakion

READER

From Octoechos - - -

Resurrectional Kontakion.

Omnipotent Lord, You rose from the sepulcher. * The netherworld saw the miracle and was stupefied, * for the dead were also raised. * But creation saw it and rejoiced with You; * Adam also greatly rejoiced. * O my Savior, the world forever sings Your praise. [GOASD]

Oikos.

You, O Word of God, are the light of those in the darkness. You are the resurrection and the life of all humanity. When You destroyed the power of death and smashed the gates of Hades, You raised everyone with yourself. Mortals saw the miracle and marveled, All creation rejoices with You in Your resurrection, O benevolent Lord. So we all now glorify and extol Your condescension, O my Savior, and the world forever sings Your praise. [GOASD]

Mid-Ode Kathisma or Hypakoe

CHOIR

Kathisma.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. N/M (By conceiving the wisdom.)

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

The depth of mercy has revealed you, Nicholas, ⁄ as a river flowing over with healing and a fountain of unending wonders! ⁄ Those who are bitterly weighed down by disease and afflicted in life, ⁄ find indeed in your warm protection a cure for all faintheartedness! ⁄ Therefore we cry aloud to you: ⁄ Intercede with Christ our God for the remission of sins ⁄ of all those who keep with love the feast of your holy memory! [OCA]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

By conceiving the Wisdom and Word of God * in your womb inexplicably, Mother of God, * for the world’s sake you carried Him who has the whole world in His hand, * and in your arms you held Him who holds up the universe, * which He provides with food, as Creator of creation all. * Therefore, O all-holy Virgin Mary, I pray you, * that I be forgiven of my offenses when I shall stand before Him who created me. * O all-blameless Lady most pure, I implore you to assist me in that hour. * I am sure you can accomplish all things whatsoever you wish. [GOASD]

Ode 4: Octoechos: Canon-1

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode iv. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἐλήλυθας ἐκ Παρθένου.

You came, O Lord, * not an elder nor angel, but You yourself, * God incarnate, being born of a pure Virgin, thus saving me * and all of humanity. * Therefore I sing to You: * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

You stood trial at Caiaphas’s court, Lord, not crying out, * as You brought forth justice to the Gentiles, as Isaiah said. * This is the salvation that You worked for the whole world, * through Your Passion, O Christ. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

By Your Passion, forsaken are the swords of the enemy, * as the Prophet David said. * By Your descent into Hades, Lord, * the cities of the foe were pulled down, * and the tyrant’s insolence was overthrown. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

You, O Lady Theotokos, are known by the faithful all, * our fortress unshakable, * the harbor where we go to be saved. * By your intercessions you rescue our souls from all dangers and calamities. [SD]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (You came, O Lord.)

Ἐλήλυθας ἐκ Παρθένου.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Living purely near the rays of the Spirit, ⁄ you are a lamp enlightening the universe, ⁄ defending and saving all who run to you with faith. ⁄ As you appeared to deliver the young men from death, Saint, ⁄⁄ now preserve me likewise from all calamity, temptation and danger. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

As you appeared and rescued from death those young men of old, O devout and all-blessed Saint, so now, save me from all adverse circumstances, temptations, and perils. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You shone forth with lightning flashes of virtue, all-blessed One, ⁄ and were a noble imitator of your Master. ⁄ You save those who call on you, ⁄⁄ glorifying you with reverence and love. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The Incarnate King and Lord came down on you, ⁄ and saved my whole self in His compassion. ⁄ Therefore I cry out to you: ⁄⁄ Rejoice, all-pure Theotokos! [OCA]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. N/M (A rod has come forth .)

Ῥάβδος ἐκ τῆς ῥίζης.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Just calling on your name, holy Nicholas, ⁄ delivers swiftly from all the purposes of the enemy, ⁄ those why cry to you with fervor. ⁄ As you delivered the soldiers, ⁄⁄ so now preserve us from every calamity. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

As you stand before the throne of God, ⁄ wise wonder-worker, Nicholas, ⁄ do not cease to intercede for us, your faithful servants, ⁄ that we may be delivered from eternal fire and the enemy, ⁄⁄ from the counsels of evil and wickedness. [OCA]

Glory. For the Trinity.

I honor the might of the unoriginate Divinity, ⁄ and I venerate the Father, Son and all-holy Spirit, ⁄ the Creator of all who is truly One, ⁄⁄ undivided, yet ever three Persons! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

You, Maiden and Theotokos, ⁄ were alone more honorable than mortal men and angels. ⁄ For you conceived the Creator in your womb, incarnate, ⁄⁄ and gave birth to Him wondrously without seed. [OCA]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Ode iv. Katavasia. Mode 1.

A rod has come forth from Jesse’s root, * and You its flower grew from it, praiseworthy Christ, now born of the Virgin, * whom Habakkuk called Paran, shady, thickly wooded mountain. * From her who knew no man You came incarnate, O immaterial God. * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [GOASD]

Ode 5: Octoechos: Canon-1

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode v. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Μεσίτης Θεοῦ.

O Christ our God, * You are the mediator between God and men. * For through You, O Lord, we have access to Your Father, the Author of Light, * in the Spirit, as Paul said, out of the night of ignorance. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Like a cedar, O Christ, * You shattered the raging of the enemies, * when in Your good pleasure, Lord, * You were voluntarily crucified * and in the flesh exalted with the cypress, pine, and cedar. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

They laid You, O Lord, * in the lowest pit, as one helpless and dead. * By Your bruise, O Savior Christ, * with yourself You raised up those whom David said * were no longer remembered, like slain men sleeping in a grave. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O pure one, implore your Son and Lord for us who put our hope in you. * Virgin, pray He grant to us * a peaceful existence and deliverance * from adverse circumstances, whenever we encounter them. [SD]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (You are the light.)

Ὁ φωτισμός.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Thrice-blessed Saint, shining with a divine way of life, ⁄ your presence delivered the unjustly condemned from death by the sword, ⁄ and they cried out to the Master Christ: ⁄⁄ We know no other God than You! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Holy and all honored servant of Christ, ⁄ who now behold the everlasting glory ⁄ of the ineffable and divine light, ⁄ delighting in the greatest brilliance; ⁄⁄ protect me by your intercession! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

You have been made flesh of the Virgin ⁄ to seek out Your own image, hidden through passion. ⁄ You hid this mystery from the angelic hosts, ⁄ yet appear to those who cry to You: ⁄⁄ We know no other God than You! [OCA]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. N/M (O God of peace.)

Θεὸς ὢν εἰρήνης.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Father, the great city of Myra now proclaims your miracles; ⁄ the diocese of Lysia and all the world ⁄ tell of the wonders you worked. ⁄ Through them, honorable Nicholas, ⁄⁄ you delivered all mankind from distress and affliction. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You are a haven for widows and father of orphans, Nicholas, ⁄ the best help in affliction, ⁄ a comfort for those who mourn, ⁄ a shepherd and guide for those who have gone astray. ⁄ Therefore, by your intercessions, ⁄⁄ deliver us also from danger! [OCA]

Glory. For the Trinity.

I glorify the Three without beginning, ⁄ sovereign Persons on one throne of the undivided Godhead. ⁄ Through Him, that which was not has come to be, ⁄ and I cry with the angels: ⁄⁄ Holy, Holy, Holy are You, O Lord! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

You are the salvation of mortal men and the hope of all, ⁄ you are swift to be present and to save. ⁄ Take pity now on those who cry aloud to you, pure one, ⁄ for we call on you in our distress: ⁄⁄ After God, we have no other advocate but you! [OCA]

Ode 5: Katavasia

Ode v. Katavasia. Mode 1.

O God of peace and Father of mercies, * You have sent to us the Wonderful Counselor, * the Angel of Your great counsel, granting us peace. * And now to light of knowledge of God we have been guided, * and we rise from night to dawn and glorify You, O benevolent Lord. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Octoechos: Canon-1

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode vi. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἐν ἀβύσσῳ πταισμάτων.

Like a deep sea, my sins have encircled me. * I invoke the deep sea of Your ineffable * and unfathomable tender love. * Raise me up from corruption, O Lord my God. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

The Righteous One was judged as a criminal, * and He has been crucified with those who broke the law; * and by His precious blood He gives * guilty sinners forgiveness of all their sins. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

As through one man, the first Adam, sin of old * came into the world and through it death spread to all, * much more through one, the Son of God, * resurrection has been manifested to all. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

You, O Virgin, conceived without knowing man * and remained a virgin, even after giving birth, * exhibiting the tokens that prove * the true divinity of your Son and God. [SD]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (Like a deep sea, my sins.)

Ἐν ἀβύσσῳ πταισμάτων.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

The crown of victory, Nicholas, ⁄ is worthily placed upon your head! ⁄ As a most noble conqueror, ⁄⁄ preserve those who call out to you! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

The crown of victory, Nicholas, ⁄ is worthily placed upon your head! ⁄ As a most noble conqueror, ⁄⁄ preserve those who call out to you! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Manifest yourself, blessed Saint, and save me, ⁄ for I am put to death by sin, ⁄ and sunk by a mighty wave of passion. ⁄⁄ Lead me to the haven of the will of God! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

I have set my hope of salvation on you, ⁄ ever-Virgin Mother. ⁄ I have established you as the steadfast and unshaken advocate of life. [OCA]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. N/M (Jonah long ago.)

Σπλάγχνων Ἰωνᾶν.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Holy Nicholas, you are revealed as a new Abraham, ⁄ for you brought your mind to your Master ⁄ as an only-begotten son for sacrifice, ⁄ continually offering a bloodless holocaust. ⁄ And as Abraham, you were blessed for your hospitality, ⁄ becoming the divine dwelling of the Holy Trinity, ⁄⁄ all-immaculate Father! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Nicholas, you have wrought strange and fearful wonders ⁄ throughout the world and far off upon the sea, ⁄ protecting those in danger with your swift prayers, ⁄ healing the sick and feeding the poor! ⁄ You were a worthy bearer of your name, ⁄⁄ showing the holy people to be victorious against their enemies! [OCA]

Glory. For the Trinity.

I venerate and honor the undivided Trinity ⁄ ever divided in three Persons, ⁄ yet one in essence and in nature; ⁄ one single sovereignty: Father Son and Holy Spirit, ⁄ ruling with power over all things, ⁄⁄ and preserving all creation as He desires. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

Christ bowed the heavens by His Own will, ⁄ and came to dwell entirely in your womb, all-holy Virgin! ⁄ For He could not bear to look upon the work of His Own hands ⁄ held under the rule of the deceiver. ⁄⁄ Therefore He came in the form of a Servant to save mankind. [OCA]

Ode 6: Katavasia

Ode vi. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Jonah long ago * was hurled from the belly of the whale as he went in, like a newborn babe. * With the Virgin now, * when the Logos had dwelt in His Mother’s womb, * taking flesh, He then emerged, preserving her intact.* Yielding not to changeability, * He preserved her unaltered in childbirth. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Short Litany

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR: To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Principal Kontakion and Synaxarion

From Menaion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode 3. On this day.

Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον.

You became the minister of sacred mysteries in Myra, * holy father Nicholas. Fulfilling Christ’s holy Gospel, * you laid down your very soul for your people, * and you saved those who were innocent from dying. * For this reason you were hallowed as a great mystic * of the divine grace of God. [SD]

Oikos.

Let us now with songs extol the Hierarch, O people, that shepherd and teacher in Myra, so that by his intercession we may be illumined. Behold, he appeared completely pure, incorrupt in spirit, offering to Christ a blameless sacrifice, sincere, acceptable to God, as a priest purified in soul and body. Therefore he is truly the Church’s protector and her champion, as a great mystic of the divine grace of God. [SD]

bookmark

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On December 6, we commemorate our Father among the saints Nicholas the Wonder-worker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia.

On this day we also commemorate the holy Neo-martyr Nicholas of Caramania, who witnessed in Smyrna in the year 1657.

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

bookmark

Ode 7: Octoechos: Canon-1

From Octoechos - - -

CHOIR

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode vii. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἀντίθεον πρόσταγμα.

The godless decree of the unlawful tyrant * commanded the stoking of the furnace’s fiery flame. * But Christ joined His pious Servants, and He covered them * with the Spirit’s dewy breeze. * He is praised and blessed and exceedingly glorious. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

O Lord, in Your tender love, You did not bear it * to see that humanity had succumbed to death’s tyranny. * So You came and saved the human race by Your own blood, * becoming man, O Christ our God. * You are praised and blessed and exceedingly glorious. [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

O Christ, when the keepers of the doors of Hades * saw You, who were clothed in the garment of vengeance, they quaked. * For You, as the Master, went there to subdue the unwise * tyrant, making him Your slave. * You are praised and blessed and exceedingly glorious. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

We recognize you, O undefiled Virgin, * as holy of holies. O unwedded Mother, only you * conceived and gave birth to God who is immutable. * By your childbirth you became * the spring of incorruption for the believers all. [SD]

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (The image of gold.)

Εἰκόνος χρυσῆς.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

I have fallen upon the razor edge of temptation ⁄ and have been grievously wounded. ⁄ I approach the gates of hell and am thrown into despair. ⁄ By your intercessions, blessed Saint, ⁄ save me, and raise me to sing: ⁄⁄ Blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You are surrounded by light from the spiritual lightning, ⁄ flashing forth from the unapproachable Light: ⁄ Raise up those afflicted in distress and darkness ⁄ and guide them towards the enlightenment of joy singing: ⁄⁄ Blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Pray to Christ your Son and God, Theotokos, ⁄ for those bound by grievous sins and the snares of the serpent, ⁄ that they may be torn from them by His precious blood to sing: ⁄⁄ Blessed are You, Lord God of our fathers! [OCA]

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. N/M (Brought up together.)

Οἱ Παῖδες εὐσεβείᾳ.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You revealed yourself, Father Nicholas ⁄ as a noble physician of a multitude of destroying sickness: ⁄ Heal the infirmity of my soul and grant me health to cry: ⁄⁄ Blessed are You, the God of our fathers! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

In days of old, you delivered the soldiers from death, ⁄ and raised them to praise and glorify the Savior Christ! ⁄ With warm faith they also cry to you: ⁄⁄ we praise you, Father Nicholas, as our wise benefactor! [OCA]

Glory. For the Trinity.

I sing Your praises, all-holy Trinity: ⁄ One, single essence shining in three Persons: ⁄ Father, Son and Holy Spirit, ⁄ in Whom all we who are baptized sing: ⁄⁄ Blessed are You, the God of our fathers! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

As you accept the prayers of all, Theotokos, ⁄ intercede with your Son and God for those who truly honor you, ⁄ and who cry for their salvation: ⁄⁄ Blessed are You, the God of our fathers! [OCA]

Ode 7: Katavasia

Ode vii. Katavasia. Mode 1.

Brought up together piously, the Servants * with contempt regarded the impious king’s decree. * The threat of the furnace did not frighten them. * Rather, standing in the midst of flames, they prayed and sang, * “Blessed are You, O Lord God of our fathers!” [GOASD]

Ode 8: Octoechos: Canon-1

From Octoechos - - -

Canon for the Resurrection.

Ode viii. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Κάμινός ποτε.

Heeding the divine decree, the fiery furnace * of old in Babylon distributed its actions and energy; * for it burned up the Chaldean men, * but it refreshed the faithful young men who sang, * saying, “Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Sing a hymn to Him.” [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Christ, with Your own blood, Your body, like the garment, * of which Isaiah spoke, was stained crimson red. * And seeing it, all the hosts of the Angels shuddered marveling * at Your immense longsuffering, and they sang, * saying, “Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Sing a hymn to Him.” [SD]

Glory to Your holy Resurrection, O Lord.

Tender-loving Savior, by Your resurrection * You clothed my mortal nature with the garment of immortality. * Now rejoicing and with gratitude, * Your chosen people sing Your praises, O Christ, * saying in the words of Paul, “Death is swallowed up in victory.” [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

In your holy womb you conceived without seed * and you gave birth incomprehensibly to Him who inseparate * from the Father lived as God and man. * And therefore we consider you * the salvation of us all, O pure Virgin who gave birth to God. [SD]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (When God went down.)

Τὸν ἐν καμίνῳ τοῦ πυρός.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Blessed Saint, as you are gracious and compassionate, ⁄ set free those held fast in the depth of trials. ⁄ By your intercessions to the Savior ⁄ bestow on them deliverance from the heavy ills possessing them, ⁄⁄ priest, initiate of the holy mysteries! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Faithful Archbishop, wise in God, ⁄ Initiate of the unfathomable mysteries ⁄ and celebrant of holy and heavenly things: ⁄ as you are a teacher of the rank of priest, ⁄⁄ beseech the Savior for remission of our sins. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

My mind has fallen into the depths of disgrace, ⁄ and is weak, surrounded by many evils; ⁄⁄ but heal it, Virgin, encompassing it with the light of impassibility. [OCA]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Saint.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. N/M (Babylon’s bedewing furnace.)

Θαύματος ὑπερφυοῦς.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

The companies of patriarchs and apostles, ⁄ the assembly of martyrs and gathering of prophets, ⁄ the whole army of ascetics unite ⁄ and call your divine way of life blessed! ⁄ We join them to call out to you: ⁄ Never cease to pray to the Lord for us ⁄⁄ that we may be delivered from all harm! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Most high and almighty King of all, ⁄ grant peace to the lives of all Christians ⁄ through the prayers of Your holy shepherd. ⁄ Lead them, we pray, Word, against their enemies, ⁄ give them victory and strength ⁄⁄ that we may praise Your power and exalt it above all forever! [OCA]

Glory. For the Trinity.

We praise the Trinity in faith: ⁄ the Life and lives, One in three Lights: ⁄ Father Son and Holy Spirit ⁄ as we follow the divine teaching of the Fathers. ⁄ Together with them we sing in reverence: ⁄⁄ Let the creation bless the Lord and exalt Him above all forever! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

In ancient times, the bush that strangely burned but was not consumed ⁄ prefigured the mystery of your child-bearing, undefiled Maiden: ⁄ For in you the fire of divinity came to dwell ⁄ while keeping you unharmed. ⁄⁄ Therefore we praise you forever! [OCA]

Ode 8: Katavasia

Ode viii. Katavasia. Mode 1.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Babylon’s bedewing furnace bore the image of an extraordinary wonder. * For it did not burn the youths it was holding, * nor did the fire of Divinity consume the Virgin’s womb wherein it went. * And so let us songfully extol and praise, * “Let all creation bless the Lord, sing a hymn to Him, * and exalt Him beyond measure unto all the ages.” [GOASD]

Kontakia and Synaxarion

READER

From Octoechos - - -

Resurrectional Kontakion.

Oikos.

Kontakion.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 3. On this day.

Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον.

Oikos.

bookmark

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On December 6, we commemorate our Father among the saints Nicholas the Wonder-worker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia.

On this day we also commemorate the holy Neo-martyr Nicholas of Caramania, who witnessed in Smyrna in the year 1657.

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

bookmark

Katavasias Odes 1-8

CHOIR

Katavasias of Christmas I

Ode i. Mode 1.

Ode iii.

Ode iv.

Ode v.

Ode vi.

Ode vii.

Ode viii.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Eothinon Gospel (EP / GOA)