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Triodion

Mode 1. On Thursday Morning

On Thursday of the Second Week Morning

Menaion - March 28

Memory of St. Hilary the New

__________

MATINS

CHOIR

Mode 1.

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 1.

As we are led up to a noetic and immaterial perception of the bodiless hosts, by means of physical depictions, and as we wait for the illumination, that comes from the Godhead in three Hypostases, let us imitate the cherubim, and sing aloud the Thrice-Holy Hymn to the only God: Holy, holy, holy are You, our God. By the intercessions of the Apostles save us. [SD]

Glory.

Let us join all the heavenly hosts, and send up our Thrice-holy praise, and like the cherubim shout to Him who is in the highest: Holy, holy, holy are You, our God. By the intercessions of the Hierarch save us. [SD]

Both now.

Having risen from sleep, we fall before You, O good One, and to You we sing the Angels’ hymn, O almighty One: Holy, holy, holy are You, our God. Through the Theotokos have mercy on us. [SD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 6. There is no litany, but immediately the following:

CHOIR

Kathisma I.

From Triodion - - -

For the Apostles.

Mode 1. The stone had been secured.

Τοῦ λίθου σφραγισθέντος.

The fishermen undid the knots of the philosophers * with the pole of the Cross and the net of the word of truth. * They enlightened the Gentiles to worship You, * the true God, and glorify You piously. * For this reason we cry out to You, who empowered Your Apostles: “Glory to the Father and the Son! * Glory to the consubstantial Spirit! * Glory to God who through those men enlightened the world.” [SD]

Verse: Their proclamation went forth into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world. [SAAS]

O wise fishermen of the civilized world, from God you received a compassionate heart, and thus you intercede on behalf of us who cry out: “Lord, save Your people and Your city, and free our souls from the woes that beset us, by the prayers of Your Apostles.” [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

We have obtained your protection, O immaculate Lady, and by your earnest entreaties we are saved from calamities. In everything we are guarded by the Cross of your Son. We all dutifully magnify you piously. [SD]

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

Christ the Vine bore you as clusters of grapes, and ye give to the earth the new wine of salvation, O God-bearing apostles. I entreat you, therefore, to deliver me from the drunkenness of sensual pleasures; grant to my soul tears of compunction on this holy day of the Fast, that I may gain salvation and life. [KW]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 3. (NM)

Τὴν ὡραιότητα.

I call to mind the measureless riches of thy compassion and the unconquerable strength of thy power, and I run to thee for protection. Oppressed by troubles and utterly perplexed, with tears I cry from the depths of my heart: O Virgin Theotokos, help me, for thou art the only Guardian of the world. [KW]

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

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR

To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For 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.

Mode pl. 2.

Be merciful to us, O Lord, in this holy season, give us grace always to weep before Thee from our hearts, washing away the defilement of our souls, and growing ever more obedient to Thy holy commandments, that in our fasting we may truly please Thee: and grant us all to see Thy Holy Passion, at the prayers of Thine apostles who brought salvation to the world. Glory to Thee. [KW]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 2.

O pure and holy Theotokos, Virgin and Mother, cause the fountain of thy compassion to flow plenteously upon us, and grant us the remission of our faults: for thou art our Guardian and divine Protection. [KW]

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; Athanasios, 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; Charalambos and Eleutherios, the hieromartyrs; the holy, glorious, and victorious martyrs; the glorious great Martyr and all-laudable Euphemia; the holy and glorious Martyrs Thecla, Barbara, Anastasia, Katherine, Kyriake, Fotene, Marina, Paraskeve and Irene; our venerable and God-bearing fathers; (local patron saint); 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 Saint.

Ode i. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἐν βυθῷ κατέστρωε.

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

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.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Holy Father Hilary, through ascetic discipline you became compassionate, gentle and meek, truly cheerful in spirit. By your mediations may I be counted worthy of compassion, so that I may now extol you with a cheerful heart. [SD]

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

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

O Father, you were consecrated from childhood, and you took up your cross and followed Christ. Through abstinence and earnest prayers, you dried up the bodily passions and became renowned for dispassion. [SD]

Glory.

O all-wise and devout Father Hilary, you submitted to the light yoke of the Lord, and you obeyed His statutes. You cast off the heavy burden of sin, and you obtained holiness. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O ever virgin, all-pure, and all-blameless Lady, entreat your Son and God on my behalf, and break the chains of my offenses. Vanquish the sin that tyrannizes me, so that saved, I may always honor you. [SD]

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saint.

Ode iii. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἐξήνθησεν ἡ ἔρημος.

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

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.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

O devout Saint, your life shined like the sun, and its brilliant rays enlightened hosts of monastics and banished demonic darkness. [SD]

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

O devout Saint, your life shined like the sun, and its brilliant rays enlightened hosts of monastics and banished demonic darkness. [SD]

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

O devout Saint, you were cheerful in heart, humble in spirit, full of divine love, and always approachable and affable. [SD]

Glory.

O Saint, you doused the coals of sin with your teardrops. Αnd after death, even as before you died, you pour out oceans of cures and healings to those come to you in prayer. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

I pray you, O all-pure Maiden, heal the wounds of my soul, and direct the movements of my mind to the will of Him who was incarnate of you. [SD]

Heirmos.

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]

Ode 3: Short Litany

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR

To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Amen.

CHOIR

Kathisma.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Ταχὺ προκατάλαβε.

All blessed St. Hilary, you consecrated your life * to God, O all-sacred man, and thus you truly became * an excellent priest of Christ. * After you shed uncounted tears and sweat of your labors, * joyfully you were transferred to the heavenly mansions. * And now you are a fountain that gushes forth cures for us. [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]

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saint.

Ode iv. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἐλήλυθας ἐκ Παρθένου.

Verse: Glory to Your strength, O Lord.

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.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

O Saint, through divine ascents you brightened your soul, and you gave wings to your mind, so that you might reflect only the extraordinary beauty of God, and be illumined by its rays. [SD]

Verse: Lord, I have heard Your report and was afraid; I considered Your works and was greatly astonished. [SAAS]

O Saint, through divine ascents you brightened your soul, and you gave wings to your mind, so that you might reflect only the extraordinary beauty of God, and be illumined by its rays. [SD]

Verse: When my soul is troubled, You will in wrath remember mercy. [SAAS]

O Father Hilary, you studied the divine writings, and you acquired God-inspired knowledge from from them, which you imparted to all who came to you reverently. [SD]

Verse: God will come from Teman, the Holy One from the mount of shaded leafy trees. [SAAS]

O devout Saint, the sweetness of your words cheered the hearts of those who came to you. You were sympathetic and people readily accepted your words, for you practised what you preached. [SD]

Verse: His excellence covered the heavens, and the earth was full of His praise. [SAAS]

Theotokion.

O immaculate Virgin, when the Lord was incarnate of your womb, he rescued His own creature from the enemy who had mastered it, and He made you Lady and Mistress over all. [SD]

(read)

Intermediate Verses of Ode Four.

His brightness will be like the light; horns will be in His hand, and He established a mighty love of His strength. [SAAS]

Before His face a word will go forth; it will go out by the shoes of His feet.

The earth stood and was shaken to and fro; He looked and the nations melted away.

The mountains were shattered by force; the everlasting hills wasted away. In the place of distresses, I saw His eternal ways.

The tents of the Ethiopians will be dismayed, even the tents of the land of Midian.

When the Most High divided the nations, when He scattered the sons of Adam, He set the boundaries of the nations by the number of God’s angels.

You will stretch your bow against scepters, says the Lord. The land of rivers shall be torn asunder.

Many peoples will see you and be in travail, dispersing waters from its course. The abyss uttered its voice; raising its form on high.

The sun arose, and the moon stood in its course; at the light of Your arrows they went forth, at the flashing of Your gleaming weapons.

You will bring low the land with threatening; You will break the nations in wrath.

You went forth for the salvation of Your people, to save Your anointed ones. You brought death upon the heads of the lawless; You brought bonds upon their neck.

You cut off the heads of rulers in amazement; they shall tremble in it. They will break their bridles like a poor man eating secretly.

You ran your horses into the sea, churning up the many waters.

I kept watch, and my belly trembled from the sound of the prayer of my lips; and trembling penetrated into my bones. And my very frame of mind was troubled.

I shall rest in the day of tribulation to go up to the people of my sojourn. [SAAS]

(sung)

From Triodion - - -

Canon 1 from the Triodion.

Ode iv. Mode 3. (ΝΜ) Wast Thou angry with the rivers.

Μὴ ἐν ποταμοῖς.

Verse: For though the fig tree will not bear fruit and there be no grapes on the vines. [SAAS]

Let us cease from the drunkenness of soul-destroying pleasures, and by fasting let us drink deeply from the cup of compunction. [KW]

Verse: The labor of the olive tree fail and the fields yield no food. [SAAS]

O my soul, fast from all excess of food, and take thy delight in the contemplation of what is good; and thou shalt eat at the heavenly table. [KW]

Verse: Though the sheep have no pasture and there be no oxen in the cribs. [SAAS]

O divine apostles of the Saviour, blazing coals of spiritual fire, burn up the grossness of my passions. [KW]

Verse: Yet I will glory in the Lord; I will rejoice in God my Savior. [SAAS]

Theotokion.

O pure Virgin Mother of God, from thine own flesh hast thou given flesh to Christ: put to death the passions of my flesh. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode iv. Mode pl. 2. (NM) The Prophet heard of Thy coming

Ἀκήκοεν ὁ Προφήτης.

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

O twelve apostles, Peter, Paul, James and John, Andrew, Bartholomew, Philip, Thomas and Matthew,James with Simon and Jude, pray to Christ for our salvation. [KW]

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

O holy apostles, once ye let down your net and caught a hundred and fifty and three fishes; and now ye have let down the net of your teachings into the sea of life, and mystically ye have caught the nations of the earth, bringing them as an offering to the Lord. [KW]

Glory. For the Trinity.

I glorify the Son and the Spirit who come from the Father as light and ray from the sun; the One begotten as Offspring, the Other proceeding and sent forth; divine and coeternal Trinity, adored by all creation. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

O honoured Virgin, who hast given birth yet kept thy purity, thou hast borne both God and man, a single Person with a twofold Nature. This thy miracle, O Virgin Mother, fills every ear and mind with wonder. [KW]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Through the radiance of your preaching ye have become the light of the world, as Christ said to you. O apostles, pray for us that with good courage we may complete the time of abstinence and venerate the Lord’s Resurrection. [KW]

Heirmos. Mode pl. 2.

Ἀκήκοεν ὁ Προφήτης.

On hearing about Your advent, * O Lord, the Prophet Habakkuk of old was frightened: * that You purposed from a Virgin to be born * and appear to humankind. And thus he said: * O Lord, I have heard Your report and I am frightened. * Glory to Your strength, O Lord my God. [SD]

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saint.

Ode v. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Μεσίτης Θεοῦ.

Verse: O Lord our God, grant us peace.

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.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

O devout Saint, with your labors you wove yourself a garment of salvation, and you wore it; and you clothed the prince of darkness with everlasting shame. [SD]

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

O devout Saint, with your labors you wove yourself a garment of salvation, and you wore it; and you clothed the prince of darkness with everlasting shame. [SD]

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

O devout Father, by exercising self-control you dried up the carnal pleasures, and you received heavenly grace; and you cheerfully cured people of every kind of illness. [SD]

Glory.

O Father, your holy hands were continually raised in prayer to God; they dashed the devil’s schemes, and they gave health to all who were sick. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O immaculate Virgin, you have become the strength of the faithful and the might of the devout; for through superior blessings have been poured out for all, and those who dwell on earth are proceeding to heaven. [SD]

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saint.

Ode vi. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἐν ἀβύσσῳ πταισμάτων.

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

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.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

O Hilary, you had died to the whole world. Now that you have been translated to heaven, you live, and you have become a perpetual source of healing energy. [SD]

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

O all-blessed Father, you were affable, meek and gentle, incorruptible, blameless and devout, compunctious, and cheerful in spirit. [SD]

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

O marvelous Hilary, you were a genuine servant of God, for you were adorned with immense sympathy and ennobled with the beauty of your love for the poor. [SD]

Glory.

O marvellous Hilary, how reputable and blameless was your life! How fine and handsome was your manner! How awesome are the miracles that you perform every day! [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

From generation to all generations, let us call the Theotokos blessed. She is the undefiled bridal chamber of God and the fiery throne of the almighty Ruler of all. [SD]

Heirmos.

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]

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 1.

Let all of us beseech the holy Martyrs of Christ God. * To Him they ever pray for our salvation and safety. * So let us all go to them, and approach them with ardent faith. * They pour out the grace of cures and healings profusely. * They defeat the hosts of evil spirits and demons, * as guardians of the Faith. [SD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On March 28 we commemorate our devout father Ilarion the New, abbot of the monastery of Pelekiti.

On this day the contest of St. Herodion, one of the Seventy Apostles.

By the intercessions of Your Saints, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.

From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Canon for the Saint.

Ode vii. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἀντίθεον πρόσταγμα.

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

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.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

O devout Saint, your ascetic struggles were like a sword that wounded the fleshless dragon and utterly destroyed him. As a reward you have received grace to do miracles, to cure serious illnesses of soul and body. [SD]

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

O blessed and devout Father, your word proceeds like refreshing dew, driving away the heatwave of depression from those who come to you with faith, who are ever enlightened by your virtuous ways. [SD]

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

O wise Saint, you made your mind the ruler over passions, and thus you ruled as a decorated victor. You fought against foreign enemies, and you utterly destroyed the ruinous passions of the demons. [SD]

Glory.

O devout Father, the winds of temptations could not shake the unshakeable tower of your heart, for it was built on the rock of the love of the Lord. Firmly established on it, as you were, you became a divine support for many people. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O pure Virgin, through gifts of prophecy, the grace of the Spirit prefigured you long before in symbols, calling you rich mountain, gate of salvation, new book, and ark. [SD]

Ode viii.

From Menaion - - -

Canon for the Saint.

Ode viii. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Κάμινός ποτε.

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

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.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

O Father, you left behind this life’s temporal glory and fleeting comforts, and in heaven you have received permanent fame and perpetual delight. And now you sing: “O all you works of the Lord, bless the Lord.” [SD]

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

O devout Saint, you spent your entire life grieving and mourning. Therefore, you were counted worthy of beatitude and the comfort which the devout receive. As one prudent and sensible, you rejoice now as you dwell in the land of the meek. [SD]

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 most sacred and devout Father, your death was precious in the sight of God. You had honored His icon and endured persecution and affliction from tyrants, and thus you proved to be a Martyr. [SD]

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 devout Father, most holy priest, God listened to your prayers, and you filled the nets of some fishermen with the catch that they had sought to no avail, and thus you relieved their vexation. [SD]

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 Lady, graced of God, I pray you wash me of the filth of passions and the stain of sin, and open the doors of repentance to me, for I have slipped and fallen, and I persist in my offenses and continually provoke God. [SD]

(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) In His divine power.

Τὸν ἐν φλογί.

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]

Slain by many sins, I bear in life a soul that is dead. Take pity on me and help me with your lifegiving intercessions, O disciples of the Saviour and eyewitnesses of God. [KW]

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

Encompassed by a mist of sin, I have in very truth drawn near to the hell of despair. Therefore give me light, O mystic rays of the Sun of glory and eyewitnesses of God. [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]

O miserable soul, abstain from the passions and be saved. For abstinence from food is not acceptable as a fast, unless we also correct our faults. [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.

Moses in prophecy foresaw thee, Virgin Mother of God, as the burning bush: quench the furnace of my passions, snatch me from the fire of Gehenna, and save me. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode viii. Mode pl. 2. (NM) The hosts of heaven

Ὃν Στρατιαὶ οὐρανῶν.

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

As the twelve tribes came from Jacob, so has the company of the twelve apostles gone forth from Thee, O Christ, into the world. Through their preaching all the faithful have been born again, and they sing Thy praises for ever. [KW]

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

Ye have overthrown the chariots of the invisible Pharaoh as in the Red Sea, O apostles, and ye have led the Lord’s people into the land of the knowledge of God; and they sing His praises for ever. [KW]

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

For the Trinity.

I honour God one in Essence, I sing the praises of the three Persons, distinct from one another yet not differing in Nature, for there is one Godhead and one power in the three, Father, Son and Spirit. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

From thy womb filled with radiance, Christ has come forth as a bridegroom from his chamber, and as a great Light He has illumined those in darkness. As lightning has the Sun of righteousness shone forth, O pure Virgin, and given light to the world. [KW]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Ye were initiated by Christ into the mysteries, and now ye are enthroned with Him on high, at all times making fervent intercession on behalf of us sinners. Pray for us, that we may complete the Fast with sincerity of heart. [KW]

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Heirmos. Mode pl. 2.

Ὃν Στρατιαὶ οὐρανῶν.

Him whom the hosts of the heavens glorify, * at whom quake the Cherubim and the Seraphim, * every breath and creation, * extol Him now and bless Him, * and exalt supremely, unto all the ages. [SD]

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 2.

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 Saint.

Ode ix. Mode 2. Heirmos.

Ἀνάρχου Γεννήτορος.

To us was revealed the unoriginate Begetter’s Son, * from a Virgin incarnated. He is God and Lord, * coming to those sitting in darkness to give them light, * to gather the scattered. * And therefore the all-extolled Theotokos should be magnified. [SD]

Troparia.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

O devout Hilary, by the Spirit’s grace, your grave gushes forth cures and healings, drying up the thunder-storms of passions, driving away the spirits of deceptive error, and illumining the hearts of all who faithfully call you blessed. [SD]

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

O glorious Hilary, in the meadow of asceticism you blossomed like a rose, a fragrant lily, and a sweet apple, and you perfume the souls and hearts of all the Orthodox, and you intercede for those who extol you. [SD]

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

O glorious Hilary, you are the jewel of monastics; for you had sympathy, love, humility, almsgiving, an unaffected manner, genuine faith, hope, an upstanding life, and a straightforward disposition. [SD]

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 Father, today your memory has risen like the sun; for it truly illumines the hearts of the Orthodox with the splendor of your labours and the rays of your miracles. As we observe it, we pray you remember all who faithfully call you blessed. [SD]

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

Theotokion.

O Ever virgin Theotokos, we rejoice as we say to you the salutation of Gabriel: Rejoice! You are the house of the Ruler of all. Rejoice! You are the glory of the devout and the salvation of all the faithful. Through you we have been deified. [SD]

From Triodion - - -

Canon 1 from the Triodion.

Ode ix. Mode 3. (NM) In the bush upon Mount Sinai.

Ἐν Σιναίῳ τῷ ὅρει.

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

O apostles, ye are rivers flowing from the spiritual Fountain and supplying living water to the pure in heart: through your prayers dry up the streams of my sin and lead me to the paths of salvation. [KW]

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

My miserable soul is tossed in the tempest of sin. O good Pilot, stretch out Thy right hand to me as once Thou hast to Peter; let not the deep waters of despondency cover me, and let me not become food for the monster that devours our souls, O most merciful Christ. [KW]

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

The choir of the apostles prays to Thee, O Jesus King of all, and the ranks of angels entreat Thee: in the abundance of Thy mercies grant to Thy people deliverance from evil, amendment of life and a place in Thy Kingdom. [KW]

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

Theotokion.

O pure Virgin Mother, Ark of holiness, in thee virginity and childbearing are combined in ways surpassing nature. Therefore I cry to thee in faith: Sanctify me wholly and deliver me from every operation of the passions that afflict me. [KW]

Canon 2 from the Triodion.

Ode ix. Mode pl. 2. (NM) Conception without seed

Ἀσπόρου συλλήψεως.

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]

Living in the world as though ye had no body, ye were like angels in the flesh, O all-blessed apostles. Ye carried in your hearts the Word alone, and drew the nations to the one faith in Christ; and by your knowledge ye have proved the wise and eloquent to be fools. [KW]

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

O Peter, rock and foundation stone of the faith;O Paul, herald and teacher to the Gentiles;O sons of Zebedee, with the other eight apostles: pray fervently to Christ on our behalf, that we may complete the remainder of the Fast with all our strength. [KW]

Glory. For the Trinity.

O Father, single only-Begetter of the only-Begotten Son;O only Light and Brightness from the one and only Light; and Thou, one and only Holy Spirit from the one God, true Lord from the Lord: O holy Three in One, save me as I tell of Thy divinity. [KW]

Both now. Theotokion.

The manner of thy childbearing fills me with wonder, O all-blameless Lady. How hast thou conceived without seed Him whom none can comprehend? How hast thou remained a Virgin and yet become a Mother? ‘Accept the miracle with faith, and worship the Child that is born: for all that He wills, He has the power to do.’ [KW]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

In the power of the Spirit ye went out to kings and rulers, fearing neither fire nor sword; as the Lord’s chief captains, ye have put to flight all error and brought salvation to mankind, O all-blessed apostles. [KW]

Heirmos. Mode pl. 2.

Ἀσπόρου συλλήψεως.

The birth is ineffable, conceived without the seed of man; the unwed Mother’s * childbirth was free of all corruption. The birth of God * makes new again the natures. * And thus, in Orthodox manner all * generations magnify you as the Mother and the Bride of God. [SD]

It is truly right to bless you, Theotokos, ever blessed, most pure, and Mother of our God. Greater in honor than the Cherubim, and in glory greater beyond compare than the Seraphim; you without corruption gave birth to God the Word, and are truly Theotokos. You do we magnify. [GOASD]

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

CHOIR

To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Amen.

CHOIR

Photagogic Hymns

From Horologion - - -

Mode 1.

O Christ, who make the light to rise, purify my soul of every sin, by the intercessions of the Apostles, and save me. [SD]

O Christ, who make the light to rise, purify my soul of every sin, by the intercessions of the Hierarch, and save me. [SD]

O Christ, who make the light to rise, purify my soul of every sin, by the intercessions of the Theotokos, and save me. [SD]

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.

Stand for the reading of the Doxology.

Doxology (read)

HIERARCH or READER

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.

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.

DEACON

Let us complete our morning prayer to the Lord.

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

That the whole day may be perfect, holy, peaceful, and sinless, let us ask the Lord.

CHOIR (after each petition)

Grant this, O Lord.

DEACON

For an angel of peace, a faithful guide, a guardian of our souls and bodies, let us ask the Lord.

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

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

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

And let us ask for a Christian end to our life, peaceful, without shame and suffering, and for a good defense before the awesome judgment seat of Christ.

CHOIR

To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

For You are the God of mercy and compassion and love for humankind, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to ages of ages.

CHOIR

Amen.

PRIEST

Peace be with all.

CHOIR

And with your spirit.

DEACON

Let us bow our heads to the Lord.

CHOIR

To You, O Lord.

PRIEST (in a low voice)

Holy Lord, who dwell in the highest and look upon the humble and observe all creation with Your all-seeing eye, to You we bow the neck of soul and body, and we pray You, Holy of holies: Extend Your invisible hand from Your holy heavens and bless us all. And as good and benevolent God, forgive us any misdeeds we committed voluntarily or involuntarily, and grant us Your blessings in this world and in the next.

PRIEST (aloud)

For Yours it is to show mercy and to save us, O our God, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to ages of ages.

CHOIR

Amen.

CHOIR

Aposticha. From the Triodion.

From Triodion - - -

Idiomelon. Mode pl. 4.

In this season of repentance, let us stretch out our hands in works of mercy; and then the ascetic struggles of the Fast will bring us to eternal life. For nothing saves the soul so much as generosity to those in need, and almsgiving combined with fasting will deliver a man from death. Let us do all this with gladness, for there is no better way, and it will bring salvation to our souls. [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.

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

When you put on the breastplate of righteousness and faith, and you fully armed yourselves with the sign of the cross, you became the Lord’s mighty soldiers, you bravely confronted the tyrants, and you blunted the deceit of the devil. And you were awarded medals as victors. We pray you intercede for the salvation of our souls. [GOASD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 4.

I run to thy protection, O holy Virgin Theotokos, and I know that I shall find salvation: for thou, pure Lady, hast the power to help me. [KW]

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, O Christ 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.