Books - Sources

Menaion - July 20

Memory of the Holy Prophet Elias

Horologion

Service of the Small Paraklesis

__________

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.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Come quickly.

Ταχὺ προκατάλαβε.

The angel incarnate and the Prophets’ pedestal, * the second Forerunner of the coming of Christ, Elias the glorious, * sent down to Elisha the divine grace from heaven. * He drives away diseases and he cleanses lepers. * Therefore he pours out healings to those who honor him. [SD]

Glory. Repeat.

The angel incarnate and the Prophets’ pedestal, * the second Forerunner of the coming of Christ, Elias the glorious, * sent down to Elisha the divine grace from heaven. * He drives away diseases and he cleanses lepers. * Therefore he pours out healings to those who honor him. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 4.

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

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

Kathisma I.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. The soldiers keeping watch.

Τὸν τάφον σου Σωτήρ.

In unison we all now acclaim you, Elias, * the fiery charioteer and the bright luminary, * the seer of God and paramount of Prophets, O blessed one. * Breathing zeal divine, you overturned false religion, * reprimanding lawless men, O Angel incarnate. * We pray you to shelter us. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 1. The soldiers.

We know you as the Mother of God and all-blameless, * for you remained a virgin indeed after childbirth. * With longing we flee to you and appeal to your tender love. * We are sinners all, but we have you to defend us. * We rely on you, O Lady. Rescue and save us * when we are in dire straits. [GOASD]

The appointed Kathisma of the Psalter may be read, i.e. Kathisma 17. 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 You are good and benevolent God, and to You we offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR

Amen.

CHOIR

Kathisma II.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 1. The soldiers keeping watch.

On earth you led a life that was worthy of heaven, * and thus were close to God through your genuine virtue; * for you, O thrice-blessed one, had acquired the life of grace. * By your breath alone you resurrected the child. * You remain preserved, surpassing death and corruption, * Elias inspired by God. [SD]

Glory.

Menaion Supplement - - -

Mode 4. You appeared today.

Having had a single meal, * glorious Prophet, * you traveled for forty days; * an Angel’s touch had strengthened you. * Therefore give strength of body and soul * to us who faithfully honor your memory. [GOASD]

Both now.

Mode 4. You appeared today.

Virgin Mother, open wide your undefiled arms, * and thereby protect us all who put our every hope in you * and who cry out to your Son and pray, * “O Christ our God, give Your mercy to all of us.” [SD]

The Polyeleos.

Psalm 134 (135).

Psalm 135 (136).

Selected Psalm Verses

Selected Psalm Verses for the Feast of the Prophet Elias

The whole day long. Alleluia.

1. O Lord, they shall walk in the light of Your face, and shall greatly rejoice in Your name the whole day long. Alleluia. (88:16) [SAAS]

2. Pour out Your wrath on the nations that do not know You, and on the kingdoms that did not call upon Your name. Alleluia. (78:6) [SAAS]

3. God stood in the assembly of gods; He judges in the midst of gods. Alleluia. (81:1) [SAAS]

4. And He struck His enemies from behind; He gave them eternal reproach. Their priests fell by the sword. Alleluia. (77:66) [SAAS]

5. They devised a wicked judgment against Your people, and they plotted against Your saints. Alleluia. (82:4) [SAAS]

6. God is glorified in the counsel of saints; He is great and fearful toward all round about Him. Alleluia. (88:8) [SAAS]

7. The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree; he shall be multiplied like the cedar in Lebanon. Alleluia. (91:13) [SAAS]

8. I found David My servant; I anointed him with My holy oil. Alleluia. (88:21) [SAAS]

9. I will cut his enemies to pieces before his face, and I shall put to flight those who hate him. Alleluia. (88:24) [SAAS]

10. And I will deliver him; I will shelter him, because he knew My name. Alleluia. (90:14) [SAAS]

11. Do not touch My anointed ones, and do not act wickedly towards My prophets. Alleluia. (104:15) [SAAS]

12. And He called a famine upon the land; He shattered all their provision of bread. Alleluia. (104:16) [SAAS]

13. You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. I hate the assembly of evildoers, and I will not sit with the ungodly. Alleluia. (109:4) [SAAS]

14. With length of days I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation. Alleluia. (90:16) [SAAS]

15. I shall not die, but live, and tell of the Lord’s works. Alleluia. (117:17) [SAAS]

16. But we who live shall bless the Lord, from this present time and unto the ages. Alleluia. (113:26) [SAAS]

Glory. For the Trinity.

Mode 1.

Let us bow in worship and adore * the Father; likewise let us glorify * the Son; and also let us praise * the all-holy Spirit faithfully, * crying out in unison, * “Save us all, we implore, all-holy Trinity.” [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Mode 1.

We Your people now invoke the name * of Your holy Mother entreating for us. * O Good One, at her fervent prayers, * send to us Your tender mercies, O Christ, * so that we may glorify * You, the hope of our souls, O Lord. [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 blessed is Your name, and glorified is Your kingdom, of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

CHOIR

Kathisma III.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

Fire-breathing Elijah, famous for zeal, * is a seer of God and the Forerunner * of Christ’s second coming; at His first, he conversed with Him. * Ravens in the morning and the evening brought food to him. * And he fed the widow extraordinarily. * When her only son died, he implored God and raised him. * He burned both the sacrifice and the wood with the fire of God. * Let us praise him in sacred song, * and pray to him wholeheartedly, * We entreat you, Prophet, intercede for us * who honor you with longing, that we receive forgiveness of sins. [GOASD]

Glory.

Mode 3. You were so beautiful.

Τὴν ὡραιότητα.

You crossed the Jordan’s streams, before the chariot * carried you up as if into the heavens’ heights, * and thus depicted a sublime mystery, O Elias, * namely that no one ascends to the heavenly heights unless * he previously passes through the waters of repentance first * and purifies his soul. And the Jordan * was a symbol of baptism. [SD]

Both now.

Mode 3. You were so beautiful.

The love that comes from you, O Virgin praised by all, * is like the sweetest dart that wounds my heart and soul; * and it has captivated me such that I often sing to you. * Blessed Lady, O rejoice! As the palace of God the King * and His fiery throne, rejoice! By your childbirth you brought forth God * in nature also human; and He makes * humans into gods by His grace divine. [SD]

Antiphon 1.

Mode 4.

From my youth, many passions war against me. O my Savior, I implore You, uphold me and save me. (2) [GOASD]

You who hate Zion, be shamed by the Lord; for you will be withered like grass in the fire. (2) [GOASD]

Glory.

By the Holy Spirit every soul is animated, and when purified, it is mystically uplifted and brightened by the triune Godhead. [GOASD]

Both now.

From the Holy Spirit the streams of grace well forth; they water all creation, so that life be engendered. [GOASD]

Prokeimenon. Psalms 109, 104.

You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. (2)

Verse: Do not touch My anointed ones, and do not act wickedly towards My prophets.

You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. [SAAS]

Stand for the Gospel reading.

DEACON: Let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Mode 2.

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

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Wisdom. Arise. Let us hear the holy Gospel.

PRIEST: Peace be with all.

CHOIR: And with your spirit.

PRIEST

The reading is from the holy Gospel according to Matthew.

DEACON: Let us be attentive.

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

PRIEST (from the gate)

23:29 – 39

The Lord said to the Jews who had come to him, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous, saying, ‘If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ Thus you witness against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers. You serpents, you brood of vipers, how are you to escape being sentenced to hell? Therefore I send you prophets and wise men and scribes, some of whom you will kill and crucify, and some you will scourge in your synagogues and persecute from town to town, that upon you may come all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of innocent Abel to the blood of Zacharias the son of Barachiah, whom you murdered between the sanctuary and the altar. Truly, I say to you, all this will come upon this generation. O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, killing the prophets and stoning those who are sent to you! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not! Behold, your house is forsaken and desolate. For I tell you, you will not see me again, until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’” [RSV]

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

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]

Menaion Supplement - - -

CHOIR

Glory. Mode 2.

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

Both now.

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

Idiomelon. Mode pl. 2.

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

O Elias, as your name includes the name of God, you received the fire of the zeal for God in your heart, and you passed the time of your life in fire. At birth, Angels swaddled you in fire and fed you the fiery flame. Later in life, three times you called down fire from heaven. And in the end, a fiery chariot picked you up and took you up as if into heaven. How amazing! A man’s clay frame was forged by the power of the Spirit, and it became all fiery! And now, united to the immaterial fire of the Godhead, he intercedes on behalf of our souls. [SD]

PRIEST

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

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

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

CHOIR

Lord, have mercy. (12)

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Ode 1: Horologion: Canon-1

From Horologion - - -

CHOIR

Canon for the Theotokos.

Ode i. Mode pl. 4. Heirmos.

Ὑγρὰν διοδεύσας.

Of old when the Israelite had crossed * the watery passage as if over a tract of land, * fleeing from the misery of Egypt, * he cried: “To God our Redeemer, O let us sing.” (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

By many temptations am I distressed. * Praying to be rescued, for salvation I run to you. * O Virgin and Mother of the Logos, * from all afflictions and evils deliver me. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Assaults from the passions unsettle me, * and they fill my soul to overflowing with much despair. * Quiet them, O undefiled Maiden, * with the dispassionate calm of your Son and God. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O Virgin who mothered our Savior God, * I earnestly beg that I be rescued from my distress. * For now as I flee to you for refuge, * my soul and reason I lift up in ardent prayer. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

My body and soul are alike diseased. * Only Theotokos, count me worthy of your divine * providence and gracious visitation, * since you are good and the Mother of Him who is good. [SD]

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. Unto the Lord.

Ἄσωμεν τῷ Κυρίῳ.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Wishing to praise the wonders * and fire-breathing power * of Elijah, we now invoke * the Holy Spirit to send down * the power of His grace divine, * as if a tongue of fire, that will enable us. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Pity me, O Elijah. * Expand the limitations * and the dissonance of my tongue, * God-bearing Prophet, by the might * of the Spirit who dwells in you, * that I may clearly sing praises of your miracles. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Lord, You subordinated * to the word of the Prophet, * by the Spirit, the gates of rain. * For You give supernatural gifts * to those who are obedient * to Your divine commandments, O Son and Word of God. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Only all-blessed Lady, * the pure and holy treasure * of immaculate chastity, * I beg you cleanse me from the slime * of passions and depravity, * and pray to your Son that He forgive my many sins. [SD]

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The rod of Moses.

Ἁρματηλάτην Φαραώ.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

As you revived the widow’s son of old, so now revive my deadened soul, * and with godly virtues, brighten it, O blessed Saint. * Direct it to the life on high. And I pray you to grant that * I may partake of eternal joy; * for I truly long to delight in you. [AC]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

The very day that you were born your father was initiated indeed * into a great wonder; for he saw you eating fire, * completely swaddled in the flame, blessed Prophet Elias. * And now I pray you deliver me * from eternal fire by your ardent prayers. [AC]

Glory.

O blessed Prophet, you desired God the Lord, for whom you truly were * always very zealous. Therefore you were magnified. * I pray you to empower me, to perform the divine will * and to be filled with the zeal for God. * And thus being saved, I will honor you. [AC]

Both now. Theotokion.

Super-essential God became incarnate in your womb, All-blameless one, * and for us and like us, as a human He was seen. * Insistently entreat Him please, all-pure Virgin, to save me, * and from perdition to rescue me; * for I have transgressed more than everyone. [AC]

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 3: Horologion: Canon-1

From Horologion - - -

Canon for the Theotokos.

Ode iii. Mode pl. 4. Heirmos.

Οὐρανίας ἁψῖδος.

O divine Master Builder of the celestial vault, * Founder of the Church and the ultimate object of desire, * only benevolent support of every believer, * in the love for You, O Lord, firmly establish me. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

I have named you the shelter and the defense of my life. * Therefore, I entreat you, O virgin Maid who gave birth to God, * conduct me to your port, * originator of good things, * the believers’ firm support, * only all-lauded one. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

I beseech you, O Virgin, dispel my soul’s turbulence, * also the tempestuous surging of grave despondency. * For you, O Bride of God, * gave birth to Christ who is Author * of serene tranquility, * only all-spotless one. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Pour the wealth of your goodness and benefactions on all, * since you bore the great Benefactor, the Cause of every good. * You carried in your womb * Christ who is mighty in power; * therefore you can do all things, * O Lady blest by God. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

I implore you to help me as I am now being tried * by distressing ailments, O Virgin, and morbid suffering. * For I know you to be * an inexhaustible treasure * plenteous in remedies, * only all-blameless one. [SD]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. You strengthened me.

Ἐν πέτρᾳ με τῆς πίστεως.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

O Prophet, how superb is the One who fed you, * who laid your banquet using ravens as waiters, * the Lord who fills all living things with good pleasure, * to whom we all cry aloud, * “No one is holy like our God, * and no one is righteous but You, O Lord.” [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

We thank You, O Protector and Benefactor, * whose providence ineffably made the widow * and prophet to be feeders of one another. * To You we all cry aloud, * “No one is holy like our God, * and no one is righteous but You, O Lord.” [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Although you shut the rain clouds from sending showers, * you made the last supplies of the needy woman * of Zarephath become an unceasing drizzle * of oil and flour for food. * Therefore you cried aloud, * “There is no one righteous but You, O Lord.” [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

You only, more than all others through the ages, * were granted such blessings, great and supernatural: * you carried in your womb Him whom all creation * cannot contain, who is God, * and you gestated Him. * Hence, O Theotokos, in faith we honor you. [SD]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. O divine Master Builder.

Οὐρανίας ἁψῖδος.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

O Elias, you slaughtered the shameful prophets of Baal, * hostile as they were to the true God, for whom you burned with zeal. * So I entreat you now, and pray, O glorious Prophet: * Rescue me from shameful deeds and from eternal fire. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

I appoint you my mightiest intercessor to God, * blessed Prophet, able to save me from all calamity. * Incline your ear to me, and hear my humble entreaty. * Please do not ignore me when I pray you fervently. [SD]

Glory.

The Creator of all things and only God magnified * you, O St. Elias, of old when He fed you by a bird. * Implore Him fervently * for me, O glorious Prophet, * that He grant me future light and everlasting joy. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Holy Virgin, we know you to be the gate that was shut, * as a prophet said, and moreover the gate that leads to God. * O Lady full of grace, open the gates to repentance. * Rain on me your mercy and remove the stain of sins. [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]

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 Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

As a Prophet of God, the true Light divine, * you killed all of the false prophets at the brook, * and thus you reproved the king * for transgressing the law of God, * and you instructed Ahab not to worship the pagan gods, * and you prayed for rain, and it came, sent from God on high. * Glorious Elias, you were finally taken * in a fiery chariot, by a whirlwind up to the Lord. * Therefore we now cry out to you: * Intercede with Christ our God * that He grant forgiveness of offenses * to those who with longing observe your holy memory. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the wisdom.

You alone among women have without seed * given birth, as a Virgin, to God in the flesh. * We, all generations, now * call you blessed, as you foretold. * For the fire of Divinity has dwelt in your womb indeed; * and you nursed the Creator and Lord in His infancy. * Therefore does the human race along with the Angels * give glory and worthily extol your all-holy childbirth, * and with one voice we sing to you: * Intercede with your Son and our God, * that He grant forgiveness of offenses * to us who faithfully honor your seedless, virgin childbirth. [SD]

Ode 4: Horologion: Canon-1

From Horologion - - -

Canon for the Theotokos.

Ode iv. Mode pl. 4. Heirmos.

Εἰσακήκοα Κύριε.

I have heard the report, O Lord, * of Your incarnation, which is a mystery. * I considered Your astounding works, * and I glorified Your divinity. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

I entreat you, O Bride of God * who have borne the Helmsman and Lord, to pacify * the confusion that my passions bring * and the surging waves of my iniquities. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

You have borne the compassionate * Lord who is the Savior of all who sing your praise. * Hence, bestow upon me the abyss * of your own compassion which I now invoke. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

We who know you, O wholly pure * Virgin, to be truly the Mother of our God, * have enjoyed so many gifts from you. * Hence, we sing this canticle of gratitude. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

In possessing you as our hope * and the stable buttress and solid battlement * of salvation, O all-lauded one, * we are liberated from all misery. [SD]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. I have heard the report.

Εἰσακήκοα Κύριε, τὴν ἀκοήν.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Holy Prophet, we honor you, for clearly you eradicated evil; * in its place you planted virtue, inspired by God. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

The widow who was feeding you reproached you for her child’s death, O Prophet, * urging you to resurrect him by grace divine. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

To his mother you gave the boy alive, after you breathed into him three times, * indicating the glory of the Trinity. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Virgin pure, like a fruitful vine you have produced the Bunch of grapes to pour forth * unto all the wine of salvation, Christ our God. [SD]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. You are my strength.

Σύ μου ἰσχύς.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Curbing your zeal, * which was on fire, the living God * to a widow sent you to be fed, O Prophet, God-inspired, * who, previously * threatened by a woman, were on the run as a fugitive. * I therefore now entreat you, * holy zealot Elijah, * with divine gifts of grace feed my hungry soul. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

The gloomy clouds * of my transgressions envelop me. * I am tempest-tossed by stormy waves of life; and evil spirits, like violent winds * furiously blowing against my soul, have unsettled me. * O God-inspired Prophet, * be my pilot and guide me * to the port of salvation and peace of God. [SD]

Glory.

Grant me, I pray, * good health of body and soul alike, * O Elijah, for you take away the illnesses of all people when you pray * to the Lord of glory. Grant me success as I navigate * the hurdles and the scandals * of this life, for I have you, * O benevolent Prophet, protecting me. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Now I implore * that you, O all-blameless Lady, join * the angelic hosts of heaven, Hierarchs, the holy Prophets, the Martyr Saints, * the devout Monastics, and the Apostles, to pray for me, * that I the greatest sinner * may be granted salvation * and be rescued from imminent punishment. [SD]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Ode iv. Katavasia. Mode 4.

When the Prophet Habakkuk heard the divine * and incomprehensible counsel of Your Incarnation * from the Virgin, O Most High, * considering, he cried aloud: * Glory to Your strength, O Lord my God. [GOASD]

Ode 5: Horologion: Canon-1

From Horologion - - -

Canon for the Theotokos.

Ode v. Mode pl. 4. Heirmos.

Φώτισον ἡμᾶς.

Sovereign Lord our God, * as the One who is benevolent, * with your commandments enlighten us, we pray; * and also grant us * Your peace with Your own uplifted arm. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Since you bore the prime * Source of happiness, impart to me, * O pure Maid, your unadulterated joy. * And fill my heart now * to overflowing with your happiness. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Mother of our God, * do redeem us from all jeopardy, * since the eternal Redemption you have borne, * and Peace that passes * all understanding, O Virgin pure. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Dissipate the gloom * of my trespasses, O Bride of God, * with the effulgence of your irradiance, * being the Mother * of the divine pre-eternal Light. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Cure the weakness wreaked * by my passions, O pure virgin Maid. * Account me worthy of your solicitude, * and by your earnest * intercessions give me health again. [SD]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. Lord, the provider of light.

Ὁ τοῦ φωτὸς χορηγός.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Your patrimonial law * showed you to be an intercessor most true, * a wonder-worker who changed the natures * of elements, O Saint, * and burned up with water * a hallowed sacrifice. [AC]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

You very well put to shame * the shameful prophets of Baal the accursed, * all-blessed Prophet St. Elias, * worshipper of the truth, * clearly indicating * the might of the Trinity. [AC]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Elias, serving as priest * with words of grace and by your innocent hands, * you sacrificed and slaughtered unholy * abominable priests. * Your zeal for the true God * adorned you like a priestly robe. [AC]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

To you who gave birth to Christ, * Who is the Maker of the universe, we sing, * Rejoice, O pure one! Rejoice! You dawned forth * to all of us the Light. * Rejoice, for your womb contained our uncontainable God. [AC]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. Why reject me, Your servant.

Ἵνα τί με ἀπώσω.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

You are famous for closing * rain clouds, being fired up with zeal and faith in God. * Elias, I pray you: * By your sacred entreaties, may grace divine * drench my soul like showers * and douse the flame of carnal pleasure * that is burning within me; and rescue me. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Blessed Prophet Elias, * as a priest you sacrificed with your unsullied hands * those abhorrent prophets * and those priests who performed their unseemly rites. * Now with faith I pray you * to keep me safe from the temptations * to commit any grave and unseemly sins. [SD]

Glory.

Your divine invocations, * made in faith, brought down the flames that burned your sacrifice, * which then made you wondrous. * Now, O Prophet, I pray you unceasingly: * Light a sacred longing * within my heart, as if a fire * that will burn up my passions like kindling wood. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

When the super-essential * Logos was incarnate, He came down like gentle rain * into you, O Virgin. * Now I pray you implore Him to rain on me * pure drops of compunction * to wash away every defilement * of my countless transgressions, all-spotless Maid. [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 6: Horologion: Canon-1

From Horologion - - -

Canon for the Theotokos.

Ode vi. Mode pl. 4. Heirmos.

Τὴν δέησιν ἐκχεῶ.

I pour out my supplication to the Lord, * and I tell Him all about my afflictions, * and that my soul has been flooded with evils, * and that my life has come close to being in hell. * Like Prophet Jonah, I entreat, * “Raise me up from corruption, O Lord my God.” (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Solicit * your Son and Lord to rescue me * from the enemies’ malignance, O Virgin, * as He redeemed out of death and corruption * my human nature held down by mortality * and overpowered by decay, * having freely submitted Himself to death. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O Virgin, * I know you well as Patroness * of my life and most reliable sentry. * For you disperse a great throng of temptations, * and spiteful treatment by demons you drive away. * And constantly do I entreat * to be saved from my passions’ depravity. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

We have you * as a protective citadel * and the absolute salvation, O Maiden, * of our souls, and in straits as a broad way. * And in your light we unceasingly jubilate. * And now, O Lady, we beseech, * from the passions and perils deliver us. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

I lie now * in failing health upon my bed, * and there is no cure for my ailing body. * But I entreat, O good Lady who gave birth * to the Reliever of illnesses, who is God * the Savior of the world, and plead: * raise me up from the ravages of disease. [SD]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. As I am by sins encompassed.

Ἄβυσσος ἁμαρτημάτων.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Paragon of godly reverence * and incorruptible living * were you, O God-bearing and inspired * Elias; you cultivated purity, * imitating the Angels. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

You were frightened by the fury * of Jezebel, who killed prophets, * and ran for your life, O inspired * Elias, the one who could block the rain * and unfetter its showers. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Face between your knees, you bowed down, * yet raised your mind’s eye to heaven; * and by your repeated sacred prayers, * you ended the drought and you made it rain, * and you watered earth’s furrows. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Ever-virgin Mother Mary, * unwedded Bride, Theotokos, * when the bush on Sinai had contact * with the fire and yet remained unconsumed, * it prefigured your childbirth. [SD]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. Be gracious to me.

Ἱλάσθητί μοι Σωτήρ.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Be gracious to me, O Lord, * though foolishly I offended You; * and from perdition to come, * O Savior, deliver me, * as You have imploring You * great Prophet Elias * and Your Mother, all-immaculate. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

In purity keep my soul, * Elias, planter of purity; * and as a zealot, imbue * my mind with a zeal for God, * so that I may drive away * the assaults of evil * and malevolent attacks on me. [SD]

Glory.

You fasted after you ate * a single cake, and for forty days * you walked by the strength of God. * O Prophet of God, I pray, * grant me strength and self-control, * that I may abstain from * every sin and disobedience. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

We call you the Gate of God, * O Theotokos. Now I entreat * that you will open divine * entries for my humble soul, * and I shall go in through them, * with thanks and confession, * and receive forgiveness of my sins. [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]

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

From Menaion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode 2. Automelon.

O Prophet and seer of the great deeds of God, renowned Elias, you stayed the rain clouds by your word. Intercede on our behalf with our only benevolent Lord. [SD]

Oikos.

Seeing humanity’s great disobedience and God’s immeasurable benevolence, Elias the Prophet was angry and troubled and spoke uncompassionate words to the compassionate God. “Vent Your wrath,” cried he, “on them who renounced You, O Judge most just.” But in no way did he move the heart of the Good to punish the ones who renounced Him. For He ever awaits the repentance of all, as our only benevolent Lord. [SD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On July 20, we commemorate the fiery ascent into the heavens of the holy and glorious Prophet Elias (Elijah) the Tishbite.

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

Ode 7: Horologion: Canon-1

From Horologion - - -

CHOIR

Canon for the Theotokos.

Ode vii. Mode pl. 4. Heirmos.

Οἱ ἐκ τῆς Ἰουδαίας.

Those Servants from Judea, * who of old were deported and sent to Babylon, * once treaded on the fire * of the furnace by holding * to the faith in the Trinity * and chanted: Blessed are You the God of our fathers. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

As You wished our salvation * to be thusly dispensed, You abode within the womb * of the all-holy Virgin * whom You have manifested * to the world as our patroness. * O Savior, blessed are You * the God of our fathers. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O pure Mother, implore Him * unto Whom you gave birth, Who delights in steadfast love, * to free from their offenses * and from their souls’ defilements * those who cry out in faith and say * to Him: O blessed are You * the God of our fathers. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

You have shown forth Your Mother * as a tower of safety, salvation’s treasury, * a spring of incorruption, * the doorway of repentance * unto all those who cry aloud * and say: O blessed are You * the God of our fathers. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Unto us you delivered * Christ the Savior; and hence we entreat you: Deign to heal * the bodily diseases * and spiritual ailments * of your servants who earnestly * to your divine shelter run, * O Lady Theotokos. [SD]

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. The burning bush.

Βάτος ἐν ὄρει.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Vested with energy coming from * consuming but a single meal that had been sent * to you from God extraordinarily, * O Elijah, God-inspired Prophet, you complete * the long walk in forty days. * Arriving at Horeb, you rejoiced and sang, * saying, “O God of our Fathers, You are blessed.” [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Prophet, the Lord was revealed to you, * Elijah, very zealous for almighty God. * But it was not in the powerful wind, * nor in the earthquake, nor in the terrifying fire, * but in the sound of gentle breeze. * To Jesus, our gentle Savior, we now sing, * saying, “O God of our Fathers, You are blessed.” [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

To you was granted Theophany * and prophecy, as once to Moses who was great; * and through the Spirit you anointed kings * and prophets, O Elijah inspired by God; * and later on Mt. Tabor * you beheld the glory of Christ, and you sing, * saying, “O God of our Fathers, You are blessed.” [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

All-pure Lady, in your virgin womb * the Father’s all-good Logos dwelt ineffably * and it was there that He refashioned us. * He has granted us the life in Eden once again. * Therefore all we believers * revere you as the Mother of our God and sing, * saying, “O God of our Fathers, You are blessed.” [SD]

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The fire in Babylon.

Θεοῦ συγκατάβασιν.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

You pitied the perishing * people of Israel. In the zeal of your faith, * by invoking the Lord God * you brought down fire that consumed the burnt offering. * Glorious Prophet Elias, I fervently * pray that you rescue and save me from eternal fire. [AC]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

On Mt. Tabor, you a last * were counted worthy to see the face of God. * Please beseech Him, O Prophet, * to overlook and forgive my many sins, * and to be gracious to me then on Judgement Day, * so that with soul uncondemned, I may behold His face. [AC]

Glory.

While traveling the road of life, * I get distracted and often go astray. * I beseech you, Elias, * my good protector, guide me protectively; * and when my thoughts are perturbed and incline toward * the carnal pleasures, O Saint, I pray you steady them. [AC]

Both now. Theotokion.

I hymn you, O all-hymned one, * and magnify you, O Virgin graced by God, * and your pure childbearing. * I pray you help me when I am tossed by the waves * of daily life; and please give to my humble soul * tearful compunction to wash away its every stain. [AC]

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 8: Horologion: Canon-1

From Horologion - - -

Canon for the Theotokos.

Ode viii. Mode pl. 4. Heirmos.

Τὸν Βασιλέα τῶν οὐρανῶν.

O praise and bless Him * who by the armies of Angels * is extolled as King of the heavens, * supremely exalting Him unto all the ages. (2) [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Do not disdain us * who need the help that you offer, * virgin Maiden, and who bless and extol you, * supremely exalting you unto all the ages. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Virgin, you pour out * your great abundance of healings * over those who faithfully extol you * and exalt supremely your ineffable childbirth. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

You heal the sicknesses * of my soul, O pure Virgin, * and the physical pains that afflict me. * Hence I glorify you the highly favored Maiden. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

You drive away from us * the assaults of temptations * and the onsets of passions, O Virgin. * Therefore do we praise you in hymns throughout the ages. [SD]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-1

Canon 1 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. Fed with unending fuel.

Ἔφριξε Παίδων εὐαγῶν.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

After the Prophet’s stern rebuke, * Ahab fittingly incurred the utter ruin * of race and realm, as just retribution for his murderous sin. * Yet the Tishbite lived, and from his fire-breathing heart * extolled the Lord and Life-giver and sang to Him: * “O bless the Lord, all you His works, and sing a hymn to Him, * and exalt Him beyond measure unto all the ages.” [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

After the Prophet’s stern rebuke, * Ahab fittingly incurred the utter ruin * of race and realm, as just retribution for his murderous sin. * Yet the Tishbite lived, and from his fire-breathing heart * extolled the Lord and Life-giver and sang to Him: * “O bless the Lord, all you His works, and sing a hymn to Him, * and exalt Him beyond measure unto all the ages.” [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Fire rained from heaven at your word, * O Elias, and it twice consumed the fifty * and captains who were sent * to arrest you, excellent servant of God. * To the One who possesses ever-living life * you sang aloud the hymn, as He is truly God, * “O bless the Lord, all you His works, and sing a hymn to Him, * and exalt Him beyond measure unto all the ages.” [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

Christ, the transcendently divine * offspring of the Virgin, on Mt. Tabor showed you, * as one who fostered purity * God’s incomprehensible light * in His body, and He thus uncovered for you * the mystery of His becoming flesh as God. * And you cried out, “O bless the Lord, and sing a hymn to Him, * and exalt Him beyond measure unto all the ages.” [SD]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-2

Canon 2 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The tyrant king.

Ἑπταπλασίως κάμινον.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Prophet Elias, we know you * as a vessel in whom abode * the all-holy Spirit, and an angel on the earth. * You breathed forth the zeal for God, you overturned impiety, * censured kings, anointed prophets, and even slaughtered * the shameful priests of Baal with a knife. And we therefore * cry out to you to save us * from shame at future judgment. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Prophet, a fiery chariot * took you up from the earth of old, * being as you were on fire with a zeal for God. * Elias inspired by God, * I pray you use the chariot * of your virtues and uplift my mind from the vices * of earth; and pray intently * to God the King of ages, * that I might in the end cross * the finish line in heaven. [SD]

Glory. For the Trinity.

Now we adore the Trinity * in a single Divinity, * consubstantial, equal in honor and might and rule. * We glorify Father, Son * and Holy Spirit equally, * never-setting light, and one majestic dominion, * in unison extolling, * “O you priests and you peoples * supremely now exalt God, unto all the ages.” [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

Mother of God, Emmanuel, * who was born of you, came to earth * teaching us repentance and the true belief in God. * Please earnestly pray that He * open the gates of righteousness * so that I may enter, all-immaculate Lady, * and save me as I cry out, * “O you priests and you peoples * supremely now exalt Christ, unto all the ages.” [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 pl. 4.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From Horologion - - -

Canon for the Theotokos.

Ode ix. Mode pl. 4. Heirmos.

Κυρίως Θεοτόκον.

You are the Theotokos * lit’rally, O Virgin; * and we confess it, for we have been saved through you * whom we, O pure one, with choirs of angels magnify. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Do not dismiss the river * of my tears, O Virgin. * For in your womb you conceived and you carried Christ * the Lord who takes every teardrop away from every face. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

With joy, all-holy Virgin, * fill my heart to fullness, * having received, O pure Maiden, the fullness of joy * and thereby causing the sorrow of sin to disappear. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

For those who flee for safety * unto you, O Virgin, * be a retreat and a fortress immovable, * defense and shelter and refuge and joyous ecstasy. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

With rays of your effulgence * brighten us, O Virgin, * who in the Orthodox manner declare you to be * the Theotokos who drives out the gloom of ignorance. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Restore my health, O Virgin; * for because of illness, * I am reduced to a state of tormenting pain. * Transform my feeble condition into vitality. [SD]

Canon 1 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. Lady, from your virginal belly.

Ἡ τὸν πρὸ ἡλίου φωστῆρα.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

After St. Elias the Tishbite * led his life on earth unswayed by men, * and when he struck the Jordan’s waters with his cloak * and they parted for him to cross, then he boarded a chariot, * and by the Spirit made his way * heavenward on a strange trajectory. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

Aflame was the Tishbite Elias * with religious zeal and love for God, * when in the fiery chariot he flew away. * On Elisha, whom he could not elude, he let his mantle fall; * and thus the Prophet left him with * double the portion of his gift of grace. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

On Mt. Tabor, Prophet Elias * was with Moses and beheld the Lord * when He became incarnate, the Ruler over all, * that which eyes had not ever seen * and ears had never heard before * and human hearts had not perceived. * Truly the Tishbite was a seer of God. [SD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The primeval absolute verdict * was rescinded by your childbirth. * Because of you, restored is primal mother Eve. * Now humanity has become familiar with God through you, * the bridge to our Creator. * You, O Theotokos, do we magnify. [SD]

Canon 2 for the Prophet.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. The heavens were astounded.

Ἐξέστη ἐπὶ τούτῳ.

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

O Prophet, you were granted the blessed gift * to see God, as much as you were able, in a gentle breeze; * first you made your body subtle and thin * through hard ascetic discipline. * I implore you, pray that my fattened mind * be subtle through repentance, * O glorious Elijah, * and then illumine it with rays divine. [SD]

Prophet of God, intercede for us.

All-blessed St. Elijah, of old you crossed * River Jordan, dividing it with your mantle. Now I pray, * dry up the effusions off all my sins, * for they are most deplorable, * and upon my soul send down ardent tears * like rain, each day, to cleanse it, * O God-inspired Prophet, * becoming rivers of delight for me. [SD]

Glory.

O glorious Elijah, you are my good * patron Saint and protector. I pray that you will keep me safe * from the many scandals of daily life, * from terrorists and accidents; * guard me from all illnesses and disease * of both my soul and body. * I cry to you to save me * from everlasting hell and punishment. [SD]

Both now. Theotokion.

We pray you, blameless Lady, since you are good: * Please do not overlook our petitions, but instead implore * Christ your Son and God who created all, * to bless our leaders with success, * and to grant them health of body and soul. * And intercede, O Virgin, * that they may be partakers * of the divine kingdom and majesty. [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.

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