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Triodion

On Saturday of the Fifth Week - Morning

The Akathist Hymn of the Most Holy Theotokos

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MATINS

CHOIR

Mode pl. 4.

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

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

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

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

Apolytikion. Mode pl. 4.

When he perceived what had secretly been ordered, * to the abode of Joseph urgently reported * the unbodied one saying unto the Unwedded: * “The Lord who has bowed the heavens in His descent, * in you is contained completely and without change; * and beholding Him in your womb * taking the form of a slave, * astounded I cry out to you: * Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.” (3)

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

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

To You, O Lord.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Amen.

CHOIR

Kontakion. Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

O Champion General, I your City now inscribe to you

Triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude,

Being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos.

Inasmuch as you have power unassailable,

From all kinds of perils free me, so that unto you

I may cry aloud: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.

First Stanza.

PRIEST

An Angel of supreme rank was sent down from heaven to say to the Theotokos, Rejoice. (3) And perceiving You take bodily form at the sound of his bodiless voice, O Lord, he was astounded and he stood shouting to her such salutations:

Rejoice, through whom is the joy to shine forth. Rejoice, through whom is the curse to vanish.

Rejoice, restoration of Adam the fallen one. Rejoice, liberation of Eve from tears.

Rejoice, height to which the thoughts of men are hardly able to ascend. Rejoice, depth which for the Angels’ eyes is very hard to apprehend.

Rejoice, for you are a throne for the King. Rejoice, for you hold the One who holds everything.

Rejoice, the star causing the Sun’s manifestation. Rejoice, the womb of the divine incarnation.

Rejoice, through whom is creation re-created. Rejoice, by whom is the Creator procreated.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Beholding herself wholly kept in chastity, boldly says to Gabriel she who is holy: The exceptional tidings of your voice seem difficult for my soul to accept. For what do you mean, pregnancy by unseeded conception, crying, Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

PRIEST

Curious to know knowledge that is knowable to no one, the Virgin cried to the serving Angel: How is it possible for a son to be born of inviolate loins? Tell me please. And he with fear replied to her, albeit shouting thusly:

Rejoice, initiate of secret counsel. Rejoice, assurance of what calls for silence.

Rejoice, introduction to the miracles of Christ. Rejoice, consummation of His articles of faith.

Rejoice, heavenly ladder by which did God himself descend. Rejoice, bridge that conveys unto heaven earthborn men.

Rejoice, the wonder most renowned among Angels. Rejoice, the wound greatly bemourned by the demons.

Rejoice, who bear the Light inexplicably. Rejoice, who declare the manner to nobody.

Rejoice, transcending the knowledge of scholars. Rejoice, illumining minds of believers.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Divine power of the Most High, to effect her conception, overshadowed the unwedded Damsel; and it made her luxuriant womb to appear as a luscious field for everyone who desires to reap salvation while chanting, Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

PRIEST

Eagerly did the Virgin, hosting God in her body, then hasten to visit Elizabeth, whose own infant recognized the voice of her greeting at once and rejoiced in the womb; and with leaps and bounds for songful sounds, he shouted to the Theotokos:

Rejoice, the branch with its shoot unwithered. Rejoice, the ranch with its fruit unblemished.

Rejoice, for the benevolent Husbandman you cultivate. Rejoice, for the Gardener of our life you germinate.

Rejoice, arable land yielding tender mercies hundredfold. Rejoice, banquet table whereupon has forgiveness overflowed.

Rejoice, for the meadow of delight you make flourish. Rejoice, for a haven of our souls do you furnish.

Rejoice, accepted incense of intercession. Rejoice, the universe’s expiation.

Rejoice, the good pleasure of God unto mortals. Rejoice, the confidence of mortals before God.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Fraught within with confusion brought about by doubtful thoughts, the temperate Joseph was troubled as he looked upon you the unwed and suspected adultery, O blameless one. But when he learned that your conception was by the Holy Spirit, he uttered, Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

Kontakion. Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

O Champion General, I your City now inscribe to you

Triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude,

Being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos.

Inasmuch as you have power unassailable,

From all kinds of perils free me, so that unto you

I may cry aloud: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 17. 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.

If the reading of Kathisma 17 and the short litany are omitted, which is often the case, then “O Champion General” is sung only once between the first and second stanzas.

CHOIR

Kontakion. Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

O Champion General, I your City now inscribe to you

Triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude,

Being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos.

Inasmuch as you have power unassailable,

From all kinds of perils free me, so that unto you

I may cry aloud: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.

Second Stanza.

PRIEST

Gloriously extolling the incarnate appearance of Christ did the shepherds hear the Angels. And running as though to a shepherd, they perceived Him to be as it were a blameless lamb that had been pastured in the womb of Mary whom they lauded saying:

Rejoice, O Mother of the Lamb and Shepherd. Rejoice, O sheepfold of sheep with reason.

Rejoice, who ward off invisible enemies. Rejoice, who open the portals of Paradise.

Rejoice, for the things of heaven are now exulting with the earth. Rejoice, for the things of earth along with heaven dance for joy.

Rejoice, indefatigable voice of the Apostles. Rejoice, undefeatable valiance of the Martyrs.

Rejoice, the mighty foundation of faith. Rejoice, the bright indication of grace.

Rejoice, through whom is Hades divested. Rejoice, through whom we are vested in glory.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Having visibly sighted the star proceeding Godward, the Magi followed after its brightness; and thereto clinging as to a light did they search thereby for a mighty King; and reaching the Unreachable they rejoiced and shouted to Him: Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

PRIEST

In the hands of the Virgin saw the Chaldeans’ children Him who fashioned mankind with His own hand; and perceiving that He was the Lord, even though He had taken the form of a slave, they hastened to pay tribute with gifts and salute the blessed Maiden:

Rejoice, O Mother of the unsetting Star. Rejoice, O dawn of the mystical Day.

Rejoice, who extinguished the furnace of fallacy. Rejoice, who enlighten initiates of the Trinity.

Rejoice, for you have deposed the inhuman tyrant from his reign. Rejoice, for you have disclosed Christ the Lord who is humane.

Rejoice, O redeemer from Magian religion. Rejoice, who deliver from the clay of the burdens.

Rejoice, for the cult of fire you terminate. Rejoice, from the flame of passions you liberate.

Rejoice, the guide of believers to temperance. Rejoice, the gladness of all generations.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Keeping to the oracles that bore on You, the Magi, having now become God-bearing heralds, proclaimed to all that You are the Christ as they journeyed back to their own country Babylon, abandoning Herod as a babbling king who knew not how to sing, Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

PRIEST

Lightening in Egypt the true illumination, You dispelled the darkness of delusion; O Savior, for the idols thereof, unable to endure Your might, tumbled down, while they who were delivered from them shouted to the Theotokos:

Rejoice, man’s rehabilitation. Rejoice, the demons’ ruination.

Rejoice, who crushed the delusion of fallacy. Rejoice, who uncovered the ruse of idolatry.

Rejoice, sea that caused the spiritual Pharaoh to drown. Rejoice, rock that gave those thirsting for life to drink.

Rejoice, pillar of fire that guides those in darkness. Rejoice, shelter of the world that is wider than the cloud was.

Rejoice, supplanting manna as edibles. Rejoice, supplying holy delectables.

Rejoice, for you are the land of promise. Rejoice, from you flow the milk and the honey.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Master, You were presented as a babe unto Symeon on the threshold of being transported out of this present beguiling age, but also perceived by him to be perfect God; for which cause did he marvel at Your ineffable wisdom, crying: Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

Kontakion. Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

O Champion General, I your City now inscribe to you

Triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude,

Being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos.

Inasmuch as you have power unassailable,

From all kinds of perils free me, so that unto you

I may cry aloud: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.

READER

Psalm 50 (51).

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

Canon for the Theotokos.

By Joseph the Hymnographer.

Ode i. Mode 4. Heirmos.

I open my mouth and pray the Spirit fill it, like David said, * to pour out a good word to the Queen and Mother of God. * I will celebrate * her feast with joy and gladness * and sing to her merrily, lauding her miracles. (2)

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O Maiden and Virgin pure, the great Archangel saluted you, * “Rejoice, living book of Christ, of which Isaiah foretold * that it would be sealed * to all men by the Spirit. * O vessel of joy, through you the curse on Eve shall be loosed.” [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Rejoice, Virgin Bride of God! Through you was Adam restored to life * and Hades was put to death. O blameless one, rejoice! * Since you bore the King, * we say you are His palace, * the fiery throne of the Ruler of all. Rejoice! [SD]

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

Rejoice! You have budded forth a holy Son, the unfading rose, * the One whom the Song has likened to a sweet apple tree. * Ever-virgin Bride, * rejoice! You are the fragrance * beloved by the King of all. Through you the world is saved. [SD]

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

We cry out, Rejoice, to you who are the treasure of chastity. * Through you we have risen from our fall. O Lady, rejoice! * We believers sense * the fragrances you send forth, * sweet lily and frankincense, costly anointing oil. [SD]

Ode 1: Katavasia

Ode i. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

Ode iii. Heirmos.

Establish your servants who extol you, * O Mother of God, for they have formed * a spiritual choir for you * the living and abundant fount; * and graciously in your divine glory give glorious crowns to them. (2)

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Rejoice, blessed Virgin! You have borne Christ, * the Wheat that came forth from land unploughed. * The Table symbolizes you, * who held the Lord, the Bread of life. * Rejoice, O never empty well * of living water, O Bride of God! [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

For us the believers you have mothered * the unblemished Bull, the Lamb of God, * who takes away the sins of the world; * we therefore call you Heifer and Ewe. * Rejoice! You are the Mercy Seat, * from which forgiveness has come to us. [SD]

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

Christ the Sun of Righteousness has risen * from you, Bride of God and shining Dawn. * Rejoice, for as the dwelling place * of Him who is the Light of the world, * you drove away the night of sin, * and darkest demons now fade away. [SD]

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

The East Gate, through which the Prince alone went, * prefigured your body; for the Lord * alone came forth from you. Rejoice! * Your Son has shattered Hades’ gates. * Rejoice, all-lauded and divine * gateway of those who are being saved! [SD]

Ode 3: Katavasia

Ode iii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

Kontakion. Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

O Champion General, I your City now inscribe to you

Triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude,

Being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos.

Inasmuch as you have power unassailable,

From all kinds of perils free me, so that unto you

I may cry aloud: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.

Third Stanza.

PRIEST

New creation was shown by the Creator in showing himself unto us whom He created, sprouting up from an unseeded womb, while preserving it just as it was, inviolate, so that beholding the miracle we might extol her, exclaiming:

Rejoice, O flower of incorruptness. Rejoice, O crown of laurel for continence.

Rejoice, for in you resurrection is typified. Rejoice, for angelical life you exemplified.

Rejoice, fertile tree with luscious fruit, by which believers are sustained. Rejoice, foliaged tree beneath which are many sheltered in its shade.

Rejoice, for you were pregnant with the Guide for the errant. Rejoice, for of the Freer of captives you are the parent.

Rejoice, who plead till the just Judge surrenders. Rejoice, forgiveness for many offenders.

Rejoice, the vesture of those stripped of confidence. Rejoice, the tender love that conquers every longing.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

On seeing the strange childbirth, let’s be estranged from the mundane, transporting our mind unto heaven. For this purpose the supernal God as a humble human being appeared down on earth, intending to attract unto the summit those who cry out to Him, Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

PRIEST

Present below completely and above nowise absent was the uncircumscribable Logos. For it was no migration through space, but divine condescension that had taken place, and childbirth from a God-possessed Virgin who hears this that follows:

Rejoice, the uncontainable God’s container. Rejoice, the magnificent mystery’s doorway.

Rejoice, for unbelievers a doubtful story. Rejoice, for the believers the doubtless glory.

Rejoice, all-holy vehicle of Him who rides the Cherubim. Rejoice, exquisite domicile of Him who mounts the Seraphim.

Rejoice, who integrate in yourself a contradiction. Rejoice, who incorporate both virginity and parturition.

Rejoice, through whom the trespass was nullified. Rejoice, through whom was Paradise opened wide.

Rejoice, the opener to Christ’s kingdom. Rejoice, the hope of eternal blessings.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Quite amazed by the great deed of Your incarnation was the entire nature of Angels. For the once inaccessible God they beheld accessible to all as a man, with us together sojourning while thusly hearing from everyone: Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

PRIEST

Richly eloquent rhetors we see speechless as fishes when they contemplate you, O Theotokos. For at a loss are they to explain how you managed childbirth and a virgin yet remain. But we, in marveling at the mystery, cry out with conviction:

Rejoice, God’s Wisdom’s repository. Rejoice, His providence’s depository.

Rejoice, who prove the philosophers wisdomless. Rejoice, who reprove the sophists as ridiculous.

Rejoice, for the fierce debaters becoming fools lost their taste. Rejoice, for the creators of the myths have faded away.

Rejoice, you who rend the webs of the Athenians. Rejoice, you who fill the nets of the Fishermen.

Rejoice, who drag out from the deep of ignorance. Rejoice, who illumine many with cognizance.

Rejoice, the barge for those seeking salvation. Rejoice, the harbor for life’s navigators.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Set on saving the cosmos, He who set all things in order came down to it of His own volition. And though being the Shepherd as God, for us He appeared like us, as a man; and having called His own, like by like, as God He hears, Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

Kontakion. Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

O Champion General, I your City now inscribe to you

Triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude,

Being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos.

Inasmuch as you have power unassailable,

From all kinds of perils free me, so that unto you

I may cry aloud: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.

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

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 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 Triodion - - -

Mode 1. The soldiers keeping watch.

Τὸν τάφον σου Σωτήρ.

The great commanding Chief of the bodiless powers * in Nazareth appears and announces the coming, * O spotless Maiden, unto you of the King of the ages and Lord, * saying, “O rejoice,” unto you blessed Mary, * “incomprehensible and inexplicable wonder, * the restoration of mortal man.” [SD]

Glory. Both now. Repeat.

The great commanding Chief of the bodiless powers * in Nazareth appears and announces the coming, * O spotless Maiden, unto you of the King of the ages and Lord, * saying, “O rejoice,” unto you blessed Mary, * “incomprehensible and inexplicable wonder, * the restoration of mortal man.” [SD]

Ode iv. Heirmos.

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

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

David saw you as the Mountain, * in the Spirit fertile and rich, * where God dwelt, O Lady; * therefore we salute you and sing: Rejoice! * The golden jar with the honey-flavored manna of old * points to you who held the sweetest heavenly Bread of life. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

We extol you, blameless Virgin, * Mercy seat for the world: Rejoice! * Jacob’s dreamt-of ladder * points to you, for God came to earth by you * and elevates all to heaven by an act of grace. * You are likewise a bridge that has conveyed us from death to life. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

You are higher than the heavens, * O immaculate Maid. Rejoice! * Painlessly you carried * in your womb the Lord who founded the earth. * We call you Seashell: its dye was used in royal cloth, * and your own blood dyed the divine flesh of the King of Hosts. [SD]

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

God the Word is the Lawgiver * who blots out the iniquities * of all people freely. * O the depth and height of the love of Christ! * Surpassing knowledge! And now we sing, “Rejoice!” to you, * who gave birth to Him. Lady, through you we were deified! [SD]

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

Crown of hope woven of glory * is your Son, who is Lord of hosts. * So Isaiah said it. * We say, you have woven it for the world. * To you, O Virgin, the fortress and defense of all * and protective wall and sacred refuge, we sing, “Rejoice!” [SD]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

Ode v. Heirmos.

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

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Rejoice, Virgin, Bride of God! You carried in your womb the Way * and the Life. O Mother of the Savior, * the world is saved from the flood of sin through you. * Awe-inspiring tidings and good news! * Rejoice! For the Master of all creation abode in you. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Rejoice, mighty fortress of humanity, O spotless Maid! * Holy place of glory, as the Psalm says; * bright bridal chamber, from which your Son came forth * as the Sun of Righteousness! Rejoice! * Joy of Angels! Aid for all * who with faith pray to you! Rejoice! [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Rejoice, fiery chariot of God the Logos, whom you bore! * Paradise prefigured you, O Lady. * For in its midst was the tree of life; now the Lord, * the fruit of your womb, is giving life * to us who were subject once * to corruption and eat in faith. [SD]

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

Enabled by strength you give, we faithfully cry out: Rejoice! * Unhewn mountain, from which came the Stone, Christ. * Concerning you, City of the great King of all, * were glorious things indeed declared, * in the Psalms and Prophecies. * O immeasurable depth, rejoice! [SD]

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

O Mother of God, rejoice! You are the oyster that produced * Christ, the divine Pearl of great value. * You are the spacious, all-wondrous dwelling place * of the Word. O Virgin pure, rejoice! * We extol you every day, * and you pray to the Lord for us. [SD]

Ode 5: Katavasia

Ode v. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

Ode vi. Heirmos.

O godly-minded believers, come * and celebrate this sacred and venerable feast and thus extol * the Theotokos, and clap our hands, * and glorify our God who was truly born of her. (2)

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O bridal chamber of God the Word, * we credit the theosis of all to you. O Virgin pure, rejoice! * The Prophets’ echoing prophecies, * fulfilled in you, adorned what Apostles then proclaimed. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

The fleece upon which alone the dew * for Gideon dripped down once prefigured you, to whom we sing: Rejoice! * From you, O Virgin, did Christ come forth * as healing Dew, extinguishing pagan passions all. [SD]

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

Behold, we greet you and sing: Rejoice! * As we are tossed about on the stormy sea of life’s adversities * and all the snares of our enemy, * become for us the port and Fair Haven we desire. [SD]

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

O cause of joy, you inspire us * to call you unconsumed burning bush and shining pillar of a cloud, * because the Lord was in you as well. * You always guard the faithful, who sing to you: Rejoice! [SD]

Ode 6: Katavasia

Ode vi. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

Kontakion. Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

O Champion General, I your City now inscribe to you

Triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude,

Being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos.

Inasmuch as you have power unassailable,

From all kinds of perils free me, so that unto you

I may cry aloud: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.

Fourth Stanza.

PRIEST

Theotokos, O Virgin, you are the fortress for virgins and all who to you run for refuge. For the Maker of heaven and earth, O immaculate Maiden, thus constructed you. He inhabited your womb and instructed all how to address you:

Rejoice, O pillar of the virgin station. Rejoice, O portal of man’s salvation.

Rejoice, initiator of interior renaissance. Rejoice, administrator of God’s beneficence.

Rejoice, for you regenerated those who were shamefully conceived. Rejoice, for you reeducated those whose intellects had been seized.

Rejoice, incapacitator of the deflowerer of sanity. Rejoice, procreator of the Sower of chastity.

Rejoice, of ungamic union the bridal room. Rejoice, who unite believers to the Lord as Groom.

Rejoice, O beautiful nursemaid of virgins. Rejoice, O bridesmaid of souls that are holy.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Unsuccessful is every hymn that hastens to pay tribute to the multitude of Your tender mercies. For even if we offer You odes in number equal to the sands, O holy King, yet we do nothing worthy of what You have given us who cry to You: Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

PRIEST

Viewing the holy Virgin, we see a light-bearing lantern that shone upon those who were in darkness. For she lit the immaterial light, and to divine knowledge thus conducts everyone, enlightening the intellect, and honored by such acclamations:

Rejoice, the ray of the intelligible daystar. Rejoice, the beam of the unwaning luster.

Rejoice, flash of lightning that brightly illumines souls. Rejoice, who like thunder have stunned our enemies.

Rejoice, for you cause the rising up of the light that brightly glows. Rejoice, for you cause the gushing up of the stream that mightily flows.

Rejoice, who illustrate the baptismal font’s image. Rejoice, who eliminate the stain of sin’s stigma.

Rejoice, the laver washing out consciences. Rejoice, the krater serving what gladdens hearts.

Rejoice, the fragrance of Christ’s aroma. Rejoice, the life of mystical feasting.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

Wishing to grant remission of ancient obligations, He who cancels the debts of all people came himself as a stranger and dwelt among those who were from His divine grace estranged; and tearing up the bond of sin, He hears from everyone, Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

PRIEST

Extolling your birthgiving with songs, we all praise you as a live temple, O Theotokos. For the Lord who encompasses all in His hand, having made His abode in your womb, sanctified you and glorified you and taught all people to cry to you:

Rejoice, O tabernacle of God the Logos. Rejoice, O holier than the holies.

Rejoice, ark that was gilt by the Spirit. Rejoice, life’s inexhaustible treasure.

Rejoice, exquisite diadem of kings with true beliefs. Rejoice, reverential pride of profoundly pious priests.

Rejoice, the Church’s unshaken citadel. Rejoice, the Empire’s fortress that never fell.

Rejoice, through whom rise trophies of victory. Rejoice, through whom fall enemies utterly.

Rejoice, my bodily health’s restoration. Rejoice, my soul’s everlasting salvation.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

PRIEST

You, all-laudable Mother who gave birth to the Logos Who is holiest of all who are holy: (3) O accept this offering now, and from calamities all deliver everyone, and redeem from the future torments of hell those who cry out with zeal: Alleluia. [SD]

CHOIR

Alleluia!

PRIEST

An Angel of supreme rank was sent down from heaven to say to the Theotokos, Rejoice. And perceiving You take bodily form at the sound of his bodiless voice, O Lord, he was astounded and he stood shouting to her such salutations:

Rejoice, through whom is the joy to shine forth. Rejoice, through whom is the curse to vanish.

Rejoice, restoration of Adam the fallen one. Rejoice, liberation of Eve from tears.

Rejoice, height to which the thoughts of men are hardly able to ascend. Rejoice, depth which for the Angels’ eyes is very hard to apprehend.

Rejoice, for you are a throne for the King. Rejoice, for you hold the One who holds everything.

Rejoice, the star causing the Sun’s manifestation. Rejoice, the womb of the divine incarnation.

Rejoice, through whom is creation re-created. Rejoice, by whom is the Creator procreated.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

CHOIR

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

Kontakion. Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

O Champion General, I your City now inscribe to you

Triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude,

Being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos.

Inasmuch as you have power unassailable,

From all kinds of perils free me, so that unto you

I may cry aloud: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.

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

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 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

Kontakion.

Mode pl. 4. Automelon.

O Champion General, I your City now ascribe to you * triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude, * being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos. * Inasmuch as you have power unassailable, * from all kinds of perils free me so that unto you * I may cry aloud: * Rejoice, O unwedded Bride. [SD]

An Angel of supreme rank was sent down from heaven to say to the Theotokos, Rejoice. And perceiving You take bodily form at the sound of his bodiless voice, O Lord, he was astounded and he stood shouting to her such salutations:

Rejoice, through whom is the joy to shine forth. Rejoice, through whom is the curse to vanish.

Rejoice, restoration of Adam the fallen one. Rejoice, liberation of Eve from tears.

Rejoice, height to which the thoughts of men are hardly able to ascend. Rejoice, depth which for the Angels’ eyes is very hard to apprehend.

Rejoice, for you are a throne for the King. Rejoice, for you hold the One who holds everything.

Rejoice, the star causing the Sun’s manifestation. Rejoice, the womb of the divine incarnation.

Rejoice, through whom is creation re-created. Rejoice, by whom is the Creator procreated.

Rejoice, O unwedded Bride!

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On April 20, we commemorate our devout father Theodore, called “Trichinas,” (which means he wore a hair-shirt).

On this day we also commemorate the holy Martyrs Victor, Zotikos, Zeno, Acindynos, Caesarius, Severian, Christopher, Theonas, and Antoninus.

On this day we also commemorate our devout father John Paleolavriotes.

On this day we also commemorate the holy Hieromartyr Anastasios of Antioch.

On this day we also commemorate the holy Apostle Zacchaeus.

On this day, devout Saint Athanasios, who built the Monastery of Meteora in Thessaly around the year 1310, and who was originally from Patras, died in peace.

Devout Saint Ioasaf, the fellow ascetic of Saint Athanasios of Meteora, died in peace.

From the Triodion.

On this day, Saturday of the fifth week of Great Lent, we celebrate the Akathist Hymn of our Most Holy Lady Theotokos and Ever-virgin Mary.

Verses

With sleepless hymns gratefully the City

Extols her Protectress who is vigilant in battles.

Through the intercessions of Your Mother the unassailable Champion, O Christ our God, redeem us from besetting calamities, and have mercy on us, as our only benevolent Lord.

CHOIR

Ode vii. Heirmos.

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

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

We salute you: Rejoice! * You bore the Sun of Righteousness, and thus the mythical type * of chariot applies to you. * Old Testament images of vines and ripened grapes * point to you, who brought forth * the Lord whose blood now gladdens hearts * of the faithful who extol you. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

In your womb you held * the One who heals humanity. Rejoice, O Bride of God! * Isaiah called you the rod * of Jesse, for you brought forth the flower that is Christ, * the unfading Word. * Rejoice! Through you we too rejoice * and inherit life, O Lady. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Insufficient are * all languages for poetry and hymns extolling you, * for you, O Lady, were raised * higher than the Seraphim for bearing Christ the King. * Now entreat Him for us, * who honor you, to rescue us * from disasters that befall us. [SD]

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

From the ends of the earth * the faithful are extolling you, singing, “O Virgin, Rejoice!” * Isaiah called you a book, * on which by the Father’s finger was the Word inscribed. * Pray Him earnestly * to write your servants in the Lamb’s * book of life, O Theotokos. [SD]

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

We your servants pray, * entreating you, and like Manasseh bend the knee of our hearts: * O Pure One, lend us an ear, * and save us, for we are drowning in adversities. * And preserve the Church * from schism and from heresy, * O all-holy Theotokos. [SD]

Ode 7: Katavasia

Ode vii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

Ode viii. Heirmos.

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

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

You welcomed into your womb the Logos. * You held in your arms the One who holds all things. * You, O Virgin, nursed the One * who by His divine command * gives food to all, O Maiden pure. And now we sing to Him: * “O all you works of the Lord, to all ages * sing praises to the Lord and exalt Him beyond measure.” [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

The glorious mystery of your childbirth * did Moses perceive within the burning bush. * Servants of the Most High God * vividly prefigured this; * for standing in the fiery furnace, they remained unburnt, * O undefiled and all-holy Virgin. * Therefore we sing praises of you to all the ages. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

We who were left naked through deception * now wear an imperishable robe through you, * who bore the immortal God, * holy Virgin, house of the light; * and we who sat in darkness of our sins have seen the light, * as once foretold by the Prophet Isaiah. * Therefore we sing praises of you to all the ages. [SD]

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

Through you who gave birth to Life in Person * were we who were dead in sin brought back to life. * Through you those who once were mute * have become most eloquent. * Through you are those afflicted by disease and cancer cured; * defeated are the hosts of the demons. * Humanity is saved through your childbirth, O Virgin. [SD]

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

You gave birth to Christ, the world’s salvation. * Through you has humanity been lifted up * from the earth to heaven. Rejoice! * O all-blessed Virgin, rejoice, * O mighty fortress and protection of the faithful who sing: * “O all you works of the Lord, to all ages * sing praises to the Lord and exalt Him beyond measure.” [SD]

Ode 8: Katavasia

Ode viii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

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

Stand for the singing of Ode ix.

DEACON

Let us honor and magnify in song the Theotokos and the Mother of the light.

CHOIR

Ode ix.

The Magnificat. Mode 4.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ode ix. Heirmos.

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

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Rescue us, we pray, * from foreign invasion and from every other scourge * that we might experience * as a result of the multitude of sins * committed by humanity, so that we faithful, who share * the divine and everlasting joy through you, * might salute you, O Virgin, and sing: Rejoice! [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

We who are confirmed * in faith and illumined through you, Lady, sing to you. * Rejoice! O unsetting star: * you brought the great Sun into the world. Rejoice! * O Pure One, you reopened Eden that was closed of old. * Fiery pillar, ushering humanity * out of bondage to heavenly life, rejoice! [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

In the house of God * let us stand with reverence as we sing with sacred joy: * Queen of all the world, rejoice! * Rejoice, O Mary, the Lady of us all! * The only blameless and the fairest among women, rejoice! * Living vessel, that received the unemptied Word, * who like ointment was poured into you, rejoice! [SD]

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

Only perfect dove, * who brought forth the Lord of mercy as an olive branch, * ever-virgin Mary, rejoice! * You are the boast of devout monastic Saints. * Rejoice! You are the glory of the holy Martyrs. Rejoice! * And the Righteous pride themselves in knowing you. * We the faithful have you as our rescuer. [SD]

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

Pity us, O God, * and spare Your inheritance by overlooking now * all of our iniquities, * for this accepting the fervent prayers of her * who without seed gave birth to You on earth, O Christ our God, * who in Your great mercy willed to take on flesh, * thus assuming the form that was not Your own. [SD]

Ode 9: Katavasia

Ode ix. Katavasia. Mode 4.

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

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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 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

Exaposteilarion.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 2. O Women, hearken.

Γυναῖκες ἀκουτίσθητε.

The mystery that was concealed * for ages is today revealed. * The God from God and Logos * becomes now the Son of Mary * the Virgin, in His tender love. * And this good news of mighty joy * does Gabriel annunciate; * with whom let us cry together: * “Rejoice, O Mother of the Master.” (2) [SD]

Lauds. Mode 4.

Let everything that breathes praise the Lord. Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise Him in the highest. It is fitting to sing a hymn to You, O God. [SAAS]

Praise Him, all you His angels; praise Him, all you His hosts. It is fitting to sing a hymn to You, O God. [SAAS]

Show Stichologia

Praise Him, sun and moon; praise Him, all you stars and light.

Praise Him, you heavens of heavens, and you waters above the heavens. Let them praise the Lord’s name.

For He spoke, and they were made; He commanded, and they were created.

He established them forever and unto ages of ages; He set forth His ordinance, and it shall not pass away.

Praise the Lord from the earth, you dragons and all the deeps.

Fire and hail, snow and ice, stormy wind, which perform His word.

Mountains and all the hills, fruitful trees and all cedars.

Wild animals and all cattle, creeping things and flying birds.

Kings of the earth and all peoples, princes and all judges of the earth.

Young men and maidens, elders with younger, let them praise the Lord’s name, for His name alone is exalted.

His thanksgiving is in earth and heaven. And He shall exalt the horn of His people.

A hymn for all His saints, for the children of Israel, a people who draw near to Him.

Sing to the Lord a new song, His praise in the assembly of His holy ones.

Let Israel be glad in Him who made him, and let the children of Zion greatly rejoice in their King.

Let them praise His name with dance; with tambourine and harp let them sing to Him.

For the Lord is pleased with His people, and He shall exalt the gentle with salvation.

The holy ones shall boast in glory, and they shall greatly rejoice on their beds.

The high praise of God shall be in their mouth and a two-edged sword in their hand.

To deal retribution to the nations, reproving among the peoples.

To shackle their kings with chains and their nobles with fetters of iron.

To fulfill among them the written judgment: this glory have all His holy ones.

Praise God in His saints; praise Him in the firmament of His power.

Hide Stichologia

Prosomia. For the Theotokos.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4. To a brave one.

Ὡς γενναῖον ἐν Μάρτυσι.

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

Now the Archangel Gabriel * is entrusted the mystery * which even to Angels was hidden and unknown. * And he shall presently come to you, * the dove that alone is fair * and completely undefiled, * restoration of humankind, * and shall say to you: * “Rejoice, O all-holy one! Make ready through a word to grant admission * into your womb unto God the Word.” [SD]

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

Now the Archangel Gabriel * is entrusted the mystery * which even to Angels was hidden and unknown. * And he shall presently come to you, * the dove that alone is fair * and completely undefiled, * restoration of humankind, * and shall say to you: * “Rejoice, O all-holy one! Make ready through a word to grant admission * into your womb unto God the Word.” [SD]

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

A most radiant palace has * been prepared just for You, O Lord, * in the undefiled womb of the Maid of God. * Come down and enter it, pitying * Your creature. For he endured * envious hostilities; * he is held in the bondage of * the avenging foe; * he has utterly lost his former beauty, but he anxiously is waiting * for his salvation through Your descent. [SD]

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

O all-blameless one, presently * shall the Archangel Gabriel * come to you perceptibly and shall say to you, * “Rejoice, deliverance from the curse, * the raising of fallen man! * O rejoice! For only you * among women are rightly called * chosen one of God. * Living cloud of the Sun, rejoice, and welcome in your womb the Uncontainable, * Whose perfect will is to dwell therein.” [SD]

Glory. Both now.

From Triodion - - -

Mode 4.

The Theotokos heard a tongue she knew not. For the Archangel spoke to her the words of the Annunciation. When she accepted the salutation with faith, she conceived You, the pre-eternal God. We also greatly rejoice, and we say to You: O God, Who without changing became incarnate of her, grant peace to the world, and great mercy to our souls. [SD]

Stand for the Great Doxology.

Great Doxology