Books - Sources

Pentecostarion

Leave-taking of Ascension

Menaion - June 21

__________

MATINS

CHOIR

Mode 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 of the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4.

You ascended in glory, O Christ our God, after You filled the Disciples with joy, by promising to send them the Holy Spirit, and You blessed them and established their faith, that You are the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world. (3) [SD]

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

Kathisma I.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 1. The stone having been sealed.

Τοῦ λίθου σφραγισθέντος.

As Angels were amazed at Your unusual ascension, * and Your Disciples gazed in awe as You, O Savior, were taken up, * in glory You ascended as God. * O Master, gates were lifted up for You. * And therefore the heavenly hosts cried aloud in amazement, * “Glory to Your descent, O Savior! * Glory to Your eternal rule! * Glory to Your Ascension, only benevolent Lord.” [GOASD]

Glory. Both now. Repeat.

As Angels were amazed at Your unusual ascension, * and Your Disciples gazed in awe as You, O Savior, were taken up, * in glory You ascended as God. * O Master, gates were lifted up for You. * And therefore the heavenly hosts cried aloud in amazement, * “Glory to Your descent, O Savior! * Glory to Your eternal rule! * Glory to Your Ascension, only benevolent Lord.” [GOASD]

Kathisma II.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 3. You were so beautiful.

Τὴν ὡραιότητα.

The unoriginate and pre-eternal God * assumed humanity’s nature, and mystically * He deified it; and today, He ascended to heaven. * As He was proceeding up with great glory into the heights, * Angels to Apostles said, “This is the One who will come again.” * They worshiped Him together and cried aloud, * “Glory to God who has ascended!” [GOASD]

Glory. Both now.

The unoriginate and pre-eternal God * assumed humanity’s nature, and mystically * He deified it; and today, He ascended to heaven. * As He was proceeding up with great glory into the heights, * Angels to Apostles said, “This is the One who will come again.” * They worshiped Him together and cried aloud, * “Glory to God who has ascended!” [GOASD]

READER

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

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]

Ode 1: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

From Pentecostarion - - -

CHOIR

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Ode i. Mode pl. 1. Heirmos.

Τῷ Σωτῆρι Θεῷ.

To our Savior and God, who led His people of old * across the Red Sea, and they walked on dry ground, * and under water covered Pharaoh and his forces all, * to Him only let us sing, for He is glorified. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

All you people, let us sing a song of victory to Christ * who on the shoulders of the Cherubim * was taken up with glory, and with himself seated us * at the right hand of the Father, for He is glorified. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

When they beheld in the heights with His flesh Christ, who is * the Mediator between God and men, * the hosts of Angels were astounded, and with one accord * they sang unto Him a song a victory. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

To our God who appeared on Mount Sinai and gave * the law to Moses the seer of God * and who ascended from the Mount of Olives physically, * to Him only let us sing, for He is glorified. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O spotless Mother of God, without ceasing intercede * with Him who from you was incarnated * and who did not depart from His Father’s bosom, as God, * to save us whom He created from all calamity. [GOASD]

Ode 1: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. I open my mouth.

Ἀνοίξω τὸ στόμα μου.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Immortal by nature, You rose within three days, O Lord, and then * appeared to the Eleven and to the Disciples all. * After forty days, You went back to the Father, * riding on a cloud, O Christ who are the Maker of all. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Divinely inspired was the Psalmist David, who vividly * described how the Lord went up to heaven with a shout * and the trumpet sound, ascending now incarnate, * to sit at the right hand of the Father and Source of lights. [GOASD]

Glory.

The world had grown old because of many sins, so You made it new * by Your holy Passion and Your Resurrection, O Lord. * And when You returned, ascending to the heavens, * a bright cloud transported You. Glory to your glory! [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

All-spotless and blameless Lady, you gave birth to the Lord of all, * who deigned for our sakes to suffer voluntarily. * After He arose, He ascended to His Father, * from whom He had never left, even though incarnate. [GOASD]

Ode 1: Katavasia

Ode i. Katavasia. Mode 4.

Long ago, Moses entered the darkness where God was. * Obtaining divine inscriptions, he promulgated * God’s Law. For cleansing his mind’s eye he saw the only * One who Is and was given knowledge of the Holy * Spirit, whom he honored with inspired songs of praise. [GOASD]

Ode 3: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Ode iii. Mode pl. 1. Heirmos.

Δυνάμει τοῦ Σταυροῦ σου.

O Christ, I pray You strengthen my mind * and heart, O Savior, by Your Cross’s might, * that I may praise You and glorify * Your Ascension that has saved us all. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Ascending to Your Father, O Christ, * You have exalted our humanity, * in Your ineffable love for us * and compassion, O Giver of life. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The orders of the Angels beheld * our human nature going up with You; * and they struck with astonishment, * and extolled You as the Savior of all. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Angelic hosts, O Christ, were amazed, * as they beheld You being taken up * with Your body into the heavens; * and they praised Your Ascension, O Lord. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Our human nature fell into death. * O Christ, You came and resurrected it * and by ascending exalted it, * glorifying us with You, O Lord. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O Maiden pure, unceasingly pray * to Christ, who came forth from your virgin womb, * that those who praise you as Mother of God * be delivered from the Devil’s deceit. [GOASD]

Ode 3: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. Establish your servants.

Τοὺς σοὺς ὑμνολόγους.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

“Behold, Christ the Lord and King of glory is coming, now that He has put on * a body, which was made of earth. * Therefore lift up your heavenly gates.” * Thus did the lower bodiless orders call out to the higher ones. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Adam was beguiled by the serpent. O Christ, You came down to look for him, * assuming his humanity. * You found him and ascended and sat * at Your coequal Father’s right, while angels praised and exalted You. [GOASD]

Glory.

The feast of the glorious Ascension of Christ the Creator of the world * is celebrated joyfully * in heaven and on earth today; * for by His will He visibly unites what used to be separate. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Lady, you gave birth to the destroyer of death, yes the only deathless God. * O Virgin Mother wholly pure, * ever entreat Him earnestly * to kill the passions that will be the death of me, and to save my soul. [GOASD]

Ode 3: Katavasia

Ode iii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

Unembarrassed prayer of the Prophetess Hannah * Shattered fetters on her womb that made her barren, * Ending the irritation of her fruitful rival’s * Needling; for she brought a broken heart and spirit * To the omniscient God and only Sovereign. [GOASD]

Ode 3: Short Litany

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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.

Mid-Ode Kathisma or Hypakoe

CHOIR

Kathisma.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

Leaving peace to Your followers on the earth, * then embarking on clouds from heaven, O Lord, * You ascended and sat at the right hand of the Father, * one in essence with Him and the Holy Spirit, as You are. * For You appeared in flesh, but did not turn from what You were. * Now You are awaiting the present age’s conclusion; * then You will return to earth and will judge the entire world. * O righteous Judge of all, * spare our souls, we pray You, O God, * and forgive us, Your servants, all our sins, * for You are compassionate and merciful. [GOASD]

Ode 4: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Ode iv. Mode pl. 1. Heirmos.

Εἰσακήκοα τὴν ἀκοήν.

I have heard the report about the power of Your Cross, * that the Garden of Eden was opened by it, O Christ, * and I cried aloud: * Glory to Your strength, O Lord my God. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You ascended in glory, O King of Angels and Lord, * in order to send to us the Comforter from the Father. * So we cry aloud: Glory be to Your Ascension, O Christ! [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

As the Savior was ascending to the Father with His flesh, * all the regiments of Angels were in wonderment of Him, * and they cried aloud: “Glory be to Your Ascension, O Christ!” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The celestial Powers called out to the orders above them, * “Lift up your gates for Christ! He is indeed of Master and King, * whom we extol together with the Father and the Spirit.” [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The Virgin gave birth without suffering maternal labor. * She is a mother indeed, while truly remaining virgin. * And we salute her and sing to her, “Mother of God, rejoice!” [GOASD]

Ode 4: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. He who sits in holy glory.

Ὁ καθήμενος ἐν δόξῃ.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The life-giving Savior Jesus * took His friends, whom He loved, with Him * up the Mount of Olives, * and He blessed them, lifting up both His hands. * And then He rode on a cloud and reached the bosom of * God the Father, from which He was not absent at any time. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Celebrating is the whole world, * visible and invisible. * Everywhere, rejoicing. * Angels all exult with and humanity, * for the Ascension of the Christ, who in His goodness took flesh, * thus uniting with us; and they unceasingly sing His praise. [GOASD]

Glory.

O almighty Master Jesus, * in Your love for humanity, * as You are immortal, * You have given all immortality; * for You destroyed death’s dominion and You gloriously * have ascended, with Your holy Disciples as witnesses. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Blessed is your chosen belly, * for it incomprehensibly * contained Him who emptied * Hades’ belly extraordinarily. * O all-immaculate and all-blameless Virgin, pray * to Your Son and God, to save the people who sing your praise. [GOASD]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Ode iv. Katavasia. Mode 4.

Now, O King of kings, only Logos begotten * Of the only uncaused Father, as Benefactor * To Your Apostles You send out Your unerring, * Holy, consubstantial, equipotent Spirit. * Evermore we sing, “Glory to Your might, O Lord!” [GOASD]

Ode 5: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Ode v. Mode pl. 1. Heirmos.

Ὀρθρίζοντες βοῶμέν σοιε.

Arising very early, we cry aloud to You, O Lord. * Save us, for You are our God. * We know no other, except for You. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O merciful Redeemer, when You had filled the world with joy, * You returned, incarnate now, * to Your celestial hosts on high. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Lord, the hosts of Angels were watching as You ascended, * and they cried aloud and said, * “Lift up the gates for our King and God!” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The host of the Apostles beheld the Savior ascending. * They trembled and cried aloud, * “O Christ our King, we give glory to You!” [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

We praise you who are virgin after childbirth, O Theotokos. * You gave birth to God the Word * incarnate, for the sake of the world. [GOASD]

Ode 5: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. Amazed was the universe.

Ἐξέστη τὰ σύμπαντα.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Once You had put death to death by Your own death, O Christ our God, * You took Your beloved friends and went up * that holy mountain, the Mt. of Olives, O Lord. * From there You ascended and returned * to Your Father in the heights, carried up on a cloud of light. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Your Birth was unusual, Your Resurrection also was * unusual, likewise was Your awesome, * divine Ascension, O Lord and Giver of life. * Elijah prefigured this of old: * a chariot took him up, as he praised You who love mankind. [GOASD]

Glory.

Two Angels addressed the Lord’s Apostles as they gazed at Him, * “Men of Galilee, why are you startled * by the Ascension of Christ the Giver of life? * He will likewise come again to earth * to judge the entire world, as the most righteous Judge of all.” [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Now Christ is ascending to His Father whom He never left, * even when from you, O Theotokos, * He was incarnate with soul and intellect, * and kept your virginity intact, * even after childbirth, in His mercy ineffable. [GOASD]

Ode 5: Katavasia

Ode v. Katavasia. Mode 4.

Experience the fire-breathing dew of the Spirit, * Forgiving and purging your sins and offenses, * All you children of the Church who are illumined. * The grace of the Holy Spirit, as tongues of fire, * Has gone forth today as a new law from Zion. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Ode vi. Mode pl. 1. Heirmos.

Ἐκύκλωσέ με ἄβυσσος.

The deep abyss encompassed me; the great fish became like a tomb for me. * But I cried aloud to You, benevolent Lord my God. * Then with Your right hand, You raised me and delivered me. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The host of the Apostles watched as Christ the Creator was taken up, * exultant with hope about the Spirit He promised them. * They sang with fear and love, “Glory to Your ascent, O Lord!” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Christ, Your angel messengers appeared to Your Disciples and said to them, * “This Jesus, who was taken up will come in the same way * as you saw him go, in the flesh as the just Judge of all.” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Savior, when the Powers of the heavens witnessed Your bodily * ascent into heaven, they were awestruck and cried aloud, * “O Master, great indeed is Your love for humanity!” [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

We glorify you worthily, O glorious Mary, and call you gate * of heaven, and mountain, ladder, bush that was not consumed; * and for the Orthodox, Lady, you are pride and joy. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. O godly-minded believers.

Τὴν θείαν ταύτην.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Let clouds rain down on us from on high * and sprinkle us on earth with eternal joy, for Christ ascends today * unto His Father upon a cloud, * as if upon the chariot of the Cherubim. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Appearing in the likeness of flesh, * You gathered into one things that formerly were separate, O Christ; * and You ascended, as Your beloved * Disciples gazed toward heaven, O tender-loving Lord. [GOASD]

Glory.

The holy Angels, beholding Christ * united with our physical flesh, remarked, “Why are His garments red?” * Because He bears on His flesh the marks * of His all-holy Passion that He endured for us. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

O Virgin pure, we extol and praise * your marvelous conceiving and childbirth, through which we have been saved * from death and ruin and suffering * and from the bleak imprisonment in the netherworld. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Katavasia

Ode vi. Katavasia. Mode 4.

To snatch from corruption Adam and the entire * Human race that was fallen, like Prophet Jonah * Out of the maw of the sea beast, You, our Master, * Shone forth, O Christ our God, from the immaculate * Ever-Virgin, as expiation and salvation. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Short Litany

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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.

Principal Kontakion and Synaxarion

READER

Kontakion.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 2. Automelon.

When You had fulfilled the dispensation for our sake, * and united things on earth with the things in heaven, * You were taken up thither in glory, O Christ our God, * going not away from any place, * but continuing inseparable, * and to them that love You crying out: * “I am with you, and there is, therefore, none against you.” [SD]

Oikos.

Leaving things of earth upon the earth; consigning things of ash unto the mound; come, let us rouse ourselves, lift up eyes and thoughts, and to the heights ascend. Let our faces and our senses, mortals, likewise look to heaven’s gates. Imagine us upon the mount called Olivet to gaze upon the Redeemer riding on a cloud. From there, the Lord went straightaway to the heavens. There, the Liberal One distributes gifts to His Apostles: as a father calling them, confirming them; directing them as sons; saying to them, “I do not part from you. I am with you, and there is, therefore, none against you.” [GKD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On the June 21 we commemorate the Holy Martyr Julian of Tarsus in Cilicia.

On this day we commemorate the holy Martyr Aphrodisios.

On this day we also commemorate the Holy Hieromartyr Terence, Bishop of Iconium.

The holy New-Martyr Nikitas from Nisyros, who witnessed on Chios in the year 1732 died by the sword.

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

Ode 7: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

From Pentecostarion - - -

CHOIR

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Ode vii. Mode pl. 1. Heirmos.

Ὁ ἐν καμίνῳ πυρός.

Inside the furnace You saved the three young men who sang Your praises. * You are the God of our fathers, Lord, and blessed are You. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Taken to heaven upon a cloud of light, You saved the world. * You are the God of our fathers, Lord, and blessed are You. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Upon Your shoulders, O Christ, You took our errant human nature. * When You ascended, You brought it to Your Father and God. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Unto Your bodiless Father You ascended with Your body. * You are the God of our fathers, Lord, and blessed are You. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Our human nature had died because of sin; then You, O Savior, * truly assumed it and brought it to Your Father and God. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

You who were born of a Virgin, making her the Theotokos, * You are the God of our fathers, Lord, and blessed are You. [GOASD]

Ode 7: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. Godly-minded three.

Οὐκ ἐλάτρευσαν.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Lord and Light, a cloud * of light came down and picked You up incomprehensibly * and took You up from the earth. * As You were ascending, the celestial hierarchies * were extolling You * with the Apostles, crying out, “Lord and God, You are blessed!” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Let us all applaud * and celebrate and clap our hands for the Ascension of Christ * and with the Psalmist sing, * “God ascended with a shout, the Lord with the sound * of the trumpet”; and, * coequal with the Father, He sits forever at His right hand. [GOASD]

Glory.

Long ago the great * Moses the Prophet sang his ode, “Rejoice and worship Him,” * O all you sons of God * and heavenly Angels. Now to Christ the King of all, * who ascends today, * we all cry out, “O Lord, the God of our fathers, You are blessed.” [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Paradoxical, * the miracles, O Lady full of grace! How you contained * the uncontainable God! * For our sake becoming poor when He assumed our flesh, * He revived mankind. * And now with glory great today, He ascends into the heavens. [GOASD]

Ode 7: Katavasia

Ode vii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

Instruments were played discordantly, demanding * Everyone fall down before the gold, lifeless image. * Rousing the faithful now to sing with reverence: * “You are blessed, equipotent, unoriginate * Trinity!” is the luminous grace of the Spirit. [GOASD]

Ode 8: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Ode viii. Mode pl. 1. Heirmos.

Τὸν ἐκ Πατρὸς πρὸ αἰώνων.

Before the ages begotten from the Father, He is Son and God. * He was incarnate and born of a Virgin Mother in latter times. * Praise Him, priests and people, exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

He is the Giver of life, and in His two natures Christ flew up * into the heavens with glory and is seated with the Father there. * Praise Him, priests and people, exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You have delivered creation from its bondage to idolatry * and to Your Father presented it, now free because of You, O Christ. * Savior, we extol and exalt You beyond measure, unto all the ages. [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

By His divine condescension has the Lord brought down the enemy, * and by His holy ascension He has lifted up humanity. * Praise Him, priests and people, exalt Him beyond measure, unto all the ages. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

O Virgin pure Theotokos, you are higher than the Cherubim, * for in your womb you had carried their own Master who is ridden by them. * Joining all the Angels, we mortals glorify Him, unto all the ages. [GOASD]

Ode 8: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4. Guiltless were those Servants.

Παῖδας εὐαγεῖς.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Two Angels appeared to the Apostles * when Christ had ascended, and they said to them, * “Why do you men stand and gaze * into heaven marveling? * This Jesus who was taken up into the heavens from you * will come again in the way as you saw Him; * as He alone is Judge, He will judge on earth all people.” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Ascribe greatness to our God, O people, * together, and let us shout aloud to Him. * Make a joyful noise to Him. * Sing His praise and clap our hands. * Our God ascended into heaven from the earth today, * as Angles and Archangels extolled Him, * as their Lord and Master and Maker of the whole world. [GOASD]

Glory.

Higher than the Angels is exalted * our nature that long ago had fallen down. * On the throne of God it now * sits incomprehensibly. * Come all and let us celebrate, and let us shout aloud, * “O all you works of the Lord, to all ages * sing praises to the Lord and exalt Him beyond measure.” [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Your Son and our God, O Theotokos, * plundered death and Hades by His Cross. * He rose within three days and showed * himself to His Disciples and friends. * Then He ascended into heaven after forty days. * And we now worship Him and extol you, * and we glorify you and Him to all the ages. [GOASD]

Ode 8: Katavasia

Ode viii. Katavasia. Mode 4.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Emblematic of the tri-luminous Godhead, * Releasing bonds and damping flames of old, those Servants * Extolled the Lord and invited all created * Nature to bless and to exalt beyond measure * The only omnific Savior as Benefactor. [GOASD]

Kontakia and Synaxarion

READER

Kontakion.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode pl. 2. Automelon.

When You had fulfilled the dispensation for our sake, * and united things on earth with the things in heaven, * You were taken up thither in glory, O Christ our God, * going not away from any place, * but continuing inseparable, * and to them that love You crying out: * “I am with you, and there is, therefore, none against you.” [SD]

Oikos.

Leaving things of earth upon the earth; consigning things of ash unto the mound; come, let us rouse ourselves, lift up eyes and thoughts, and to the heights ascend. Let our faces and our senses, mortals, likewise look to heaven’s gates. Imagine us upon the mount called Olivet to gaze upon the Redeemer riding on a cloud. From there, the Lord went straightaway to the heavens. There, the Liberal One distributes gifts to His Apostles: as a father calling them, confirming them; directing them as sons; saying to them, “I do not part from you. I am with you, and there is, therefore, none against you.” [GKD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On the June 21 we commemorate the Holy Martyr Julian of Tarsus in Cilicia.

On this day we commemorate the holy Martyr Aphrodisios.

On this day we also commemorate the Holy Hieromartyr Terence, Bishop of Iconium.

The holy New-Martyr Nikitas from Nisyros, who witnessed on Chios in the year 1732 died by the sword.

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

Katavasias Odes 1-8

CHOIR

Katavasias of Pentecost II

Ode i. Mode 4.

Long ago, Moses entered the darkness where God was. * Obtaining divine inscriptions, he promulgated * God’s Law. For cleansing his mind’s eye he saw the only * One who Is and was given knowledge of the Holy * Spirit, whom he honored with inspired songs of praise. [GOASD]

Ode iii.

Unembarrassed prayer of the Prophetess Hannah * Shattered fetters on her womb that made her barren, * Ending the irritation of her fruitful rival’s * Needling; for she brought a broken heart and spirit * To the omniscient God and only Sovereign. [GOASD]

Ode iv.

Now, O King of kings, only Logos begotten * Of the only uncaused Father, as Benefactor * To Your Apostles You send out Your unerring, * Holy, consubstantial, equipotent Spirit. * Evermore we sing, “Glory to Your might, O Lord!” [GOASD]

Ode v.

Experience the fire-breathing dew of the Spirit, * Forgiving and purging your sins and offenses, * All you children of the Church who are illumined. * The grace of the Holy Spirit, as tongues of fire, * Has gone forth today as a new law from Zion. [GOASD]

Ode vi.

To snatch from corruption Adam and the entire * Human race that was fallen, like Prophet Jonah * Out of the maw of the sea beast, You, our Master, * Shone forth, O Christ our God, from the immaculate * Ever-Virgin, as expiation and salvation. [GOASD]

Ode vii.

Instruments were played discordantly, demanding * Everyone fall down before the gold, lifeless image. * Rousing the faithful now to sing with reverence: * “You are blessed, equipotent, unoriginate * Trinity!” is the luminous grace of the Spirit. [GOASD]

Ode viii.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Emblematic of the tri-luminous Godhead, * Releasing bonds and damping flames of old, those Servants * Extolled the Lord and invited all created * Nature to bless and to exalt beyond measure * The only omnific Savior as Benefactor. [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 9: Pentecostarion: Canon-1

From Pentecostarion - - -

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Ode ix. Mode pl. 1. Heirmos.

Σὲ τὴν ὑπὲρ νοῦν.

Mode pl. 1. Heirmos.

Σὲ τὴν ὑπὲρ νοῦν.

You, transcending mind and reason are Mother of God; * you gave birth to the timeless One in time inexpressibly. * We the faithful with one accord magnify you. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Watching You the world’s Redeemer, O Christ our God, * be divinely exalted into heaven, with fear and awe * the Apostles exultantly magnified You.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Watching as Your body, which was deified, O Christ, * was ascending into the heights of heaven, the Angels, * one to another, signaled, “This is truly our God.” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Christ our God, as incorporeal orders beheld * You ascending on clouds into the heavens, they cried aloud, * “This is the King of glory. Lift the gates for Him!” [GOASD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You descended even to the netherworld, O Lord, * and You saved all humanity; and now You exalted it * by Your glorious ascension. We magnify You. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Theotokos, as the Mother of Christ God, rejoice! * As you witnessed Your Son ascend to heaven from earth today * on the clouds with the Angels, you magnified Him. [GOASD]

Ode 9: Pentecostarion: Canon-2

Canon 2 of the Feast.

Ode ix. Mode 4. All you born on earth.

Ἅπας γηγενής.

The Angels, beholding the Lord’s ascension, were filled with great astonishment, * at how with glory He was lifted from the earth into heaven.

Oh, the gifts of God, * beyond comprehension! Oh, the awesome mystery! * For the Lord and Ruler of all * from earth ascended to heaven, whence He came, * and sent to His Disciples the all-holy Spirit of God, * who illumined their souls and their intellects, * and effectively set them afire with grace. [GOASD]

The Angels, beholding the Lord’s ascension, were filled with great astonishment, * at how with glory He was lifted from the earth into heaven.

To the sacred corps * of holy Disciples did the risen Lord command, * “Stay here in Jerusalem, * until I send you another Comforter, * who shares the Father’s throne and is of equal honor with Me, * whom you see now taken up into the heights, * being carried aloft on a cloud of light.” [GOASD]

Glory.

The Angels, beholding the Lord’s ascension, were filled with great astonishment, * at how with glory He was lifted from the earth into heaven.

Even though the Lord * became poor assuming flesh, now His magnificence * higher than the heavens is raised. * Our fallen nature is honored evermore * by session with the Father. Therefore let us celebrate * and with one voice jubilantly cry aloud, * and with gladness of heart let us clap our hands. [GOASD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Visibly from you, * O all-blameless Virgin, Light from Light has shone on all, * and He has entirely * dispelled the darkness of deathly godlessness * and led into the light those who had lain asleep in the night. * Therefore as all generations ought to do, * we the faithful forever will call you blessed. [GOASD]

Ode 9: Katavasia

Ode ix. Katavasia. Mode 4.

Theotokos, rejoice! Queen of all and the glory * Of mothers and virgins! There is no eloquence, * There is no hymn, no poetry, that can worthily * Honor you. And when we think about your childbirth, * Every mind is dazed. Therefore we all glorify you. [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 Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2. Automelon.

Τῶν Μαθητῶν ὁρώντων σε.

With the disciples witnessing, You ascended, * O Christ, unto the Father, to sit beside Him. * Angels ran before You and they cried aloud, * Lift up the gates, O lift them up. * Behold the King has ascended * to light-principial glory. (3) [SD]

Lauds. Mode 1.

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]

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.

Stichera for the Feast.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 1. For all the powers of heaven.

Τῶν οὐρανίων ταγμάτων.

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

Let us on earth join the Angels and celebrate the feast, * crying aloud and singing * to our God, who is seated * on the throne of glory, the thrice-holy hymn, * “Heavenly Father, holy are You; * co-unoriginate Logos, holy are You; * and all-holy Spirit, holy are You.” [SD]

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

Let us on earth join the Angels and celebrate the feast, * crying aloud and singing * to our God, who is seated * on the throne of glory, the thrice-holy hymn, * “Heavenly Father, holy are You; * co-unoriginate Logos, holy are You; * and all-holy Spirit, holy are You.” [SD]

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

As the preeminent Angels perceived Your strange ascent, * they were perplexed, O Savior, * and they asked one another, * “What are we beholding? Human in form * is the one we are seeing here. * He has a body; and yet, look how He ascends * far above the heavens, as our God.” [SD]

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

The men of Galilee, watching as You were taken up * from the Mount of Olives * with Your body, O Logos, * heard the voice of Angels who cried out to them, * saying, “Why do you stand and look? * This Jesus, henceforth incarnate, will come again * in the same way as you saw Him go.” [SD]

Glory. Both now.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 2.

You were born, as You so willed; You appeared, as You so wished. You suffered in the flesh, O our God; You rose from the dead, after trampling death. You were taken up in glory, You who fill the universe; and You sent us the divine Spirit, that we might extol and glorify Your Divinity. [SD]

Stand for the Great Doxology.

Great Doxology

Glory be to You who showed the light. Glory in the highest to God. His peace is on earth, His good pleasure in mankind. [SD]

We praise You, we bless You, we worship You, we glorify You, we give thanks to You for Your great glory.

Lord King, heavenly God, Father, Ruler over all; Lord, only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ; and You, O Holy Spirit.

Lord God, Lamb of God, 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 hand of the Father, and have mercy on us.

For You alone are holy, You alone are Lord, Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Every day I will bless You, and Your name will I praise to eternity, and to the ages of ages.

Vouchsafe, O Lord, this day, that we be kept without sin.

Blessed are You, O Lord, the God of our fathers, and praised and glorified is Your name to the ages. Amen.

Let Your mercy be on us, O Lord, as we have set our hope on You.

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

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

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

Lord, You have been our refuge from generation to generation. I said: Lord, have mercy on me. Heal my soul, for I have sinned against You.

Lord, I have fled to You. 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.

Continue Your mercy to those who know You.

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.

Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Apolytikion.

From Pentecostarion - - -

Mode 4.

You ascended in glory, O Christ our God, after You filled the Disciples with joy, by promising to send them the Holy Spirit, and You blessed them and established their faith, that You are the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world. [SD]

Litanies, End, no Dismissal

LITANY OF FERVENT SUPPLICATION

DEACON

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

CHOIR (after each petition)

Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Again we pray for pious and Orthodox Christians.

Again we pray for our Archbishop (name).

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

Again we pray for mercy, life, peace, health, salvation, protection, forgiveness, and remission of the sins of the servants of God, all pious Orthodox Christians residing and visiting in this city: the parishioners, the members of the parish council, the stewards, and benefactors of this holy church.

Again we pray for the blessed and ever-memorable founders of this holy church, and for all our fathers and brethren who have fallen asleep before us, who here have been piously laid to their rest, as well as the Orthodox everywhere.

Again we pray for those who bear fruit and do good works in this holy and all-venerable church, for those who labor and those who sing, and for the people here present who await Your great and rich mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

LITANY OF COMPLETION

DEACON

Let us complete our morning prayer to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

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

CHOIR (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.

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 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.

PRIEST: Wisdom.

READER: Father, bless!

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

HIERARCH or READER

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

CHOIR: Amen.

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

Litanies and Dismissal

LITANY OF FERVENT SUPPLICATION

DEACON

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

CHOIR (after each petition)

Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Again we pray for pious and Orthodox Christians.

Again we pray for our Archbishop (name).

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

Again we pray for mercy, life, peace, health, salvation, protection, forgiveness, and remission of the sins of the servants of God, all pious Orthodox Christians residing and visiting in this city: the parishioners, the members of the parish council, the stewards, and benefactors of this holy church.

Again we pray for the blessed and ever-memorable founders of this holy church, and for all our fathers and brethren who have fallen asleep before us, who here have been piously laid to their rest, as well as the Orthodox everywhere.

Again we pray for those who bear fruit and do good works in this holy and all-venerable church, for those who labor and those who sing, and for the people here present who await Your great and rich mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

LITANY OF COMPLETION

DEACON

Let us complete our morning prayer to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

DEACON

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

CHOIR (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.

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 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.

PRIEST

Wisdom.

( Father, bless! )

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

CHOIR

Amen.

HIERARCH or READER

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

( Amen. )

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

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

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

Dismissal

PRIEST

Glory to You, O Christ our God. Glory to You.

May He who ascended from us into heaven in glory, and sat at the right hand of God the Father, 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.