Books - Sources
Menaion - September 12
Leave-taking of the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos
__________
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 Menaion - - -
Mode 4.
Your Nativity, O Theotokos, imparted joy to the entire earth, for out of you has risen the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God. He nullified the curse and instead gave His blessing; and causing death to be neutralized, He granted us eternal life. [SD] (3)
PRIEST
Again and again in peace let us pray to the Lord.
CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.
PRIEST
Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.
CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.
PRIEST
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 4. Joseph marveled.
Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.
Shout, O David, and declare, * what oath did God swear to you? * And he answers, “What He swore, behold, He also has fulfilled, * for He has given the Virgin as the fruit of my loins. * From her has Christ the new Adam and Fashioner * been born, as it is written, to be King on my throne. * And He whose reign is unshakable is reigning today and forevermore. * The barren woman bears the Theotokos, * the nourisher of our Life.” [SD]
Glory. Both now. Repeat.
Shout, O David, and declare, * what oath did God swear to you? * And he answers, “What He swore, behold, He also has fulfilled, * for He has given the Virgin as the fruit of my loins. * From her has Christ the new Adam and Fashioner * been born, as it is written, to be King on my throne. * And He whose reign is unshakable is reigning today and forevermore. * The barren woman bears the Theotokos, * the nourisher of our Life.” [SD]
Kathisma II.
From Menaion - - -
Mode 4. Joseph marveled.
Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.
Unto us is born today Mary the child of God, * as the branch from Jesse’s root, and as the fruit of David’s loins, * and all creation is re-created and deified. * O heaven and the earth, rejoice in unison. * Sing praises unto her, O all you Gentile clans. * Joachim is exultant, and Anna is keeping festival, crying out: * “The barren woman bears the Theotokos, * the nourisher of our Life.” [SD]
Glory. Both now. Repeat.
Unto us is born today Mary the child of God, * as the branch from Jesse’s root, and as the fruit of David’s loins, * and all creation is re-created and deified. * O heaven and the earth, rejoice in unison. * Sing praises unto her, O all you Gentile clans. * Joachim is exultant, and Anna is keeping festival, crying out: * “The barren woman bears the Theotokos, * the nourisher of our Life.” [SD]
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]
Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-1
From Menaion - - -
CHOIR
Ode i.
Canon 1 of the Feast.
Heirmos. Mode 2.
Δεῦτε λαοί.
Peoples, now come * and let us sing a song to Christ our God, * who by His prophet split the sea and through it led across * His people and possession, out of Egyptian bondage, * for He was glorified. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Come, faithful, rejoicing in the divine Spirit, ⁄ let us honor the ever-Virgin Maiden in hymns ⁄ for she came forth today from a barren woman ⁄ for the salvation of mortal men. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, holy Mother and Handmaiden of Christ our God, ⁄ for you have restored original blessedness to mankind! ⁄ We rightly glorify you in song. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Today the Bridge of Life is born. ⁄ Through her, mortals who have fallen into hell ⁄ find their way back up again ⁄ and with song, they glorify Christ, the Giver of life. [OCA]
Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-2
Canon 2 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode pl. 4.
Τῷ συντρίψαντι πολέμους.
To the Lord who crushed combatants * by His strong and upraised arm * for His people Israel, * and led them as they passed over the Red Sea, * let us sing, for He is our deliverer and God and greatly glorified. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Let all creation dance for joy, ⁄ and let David also celebrate: ⁄ for a rod has come forth from his tribe and seed, ⁄ blossoming the Lord and Deliverer of all. [OCA]
Glory. For the Trinity.
I glorify the Three without beginning; ⁄ I sing the praises of the Holy Trinity; ⁄ I proclaim the Three co-eternal in one essence: ⁄ For a single God is glorified in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. [OCA]
Both now. Theotokion.
Who has ever beheld a child unbegotten by a Father, ⁄ reared on His Mother’s milk? ⁄ Or where has a Virgin Mother ever been seen? ⁄ Truly, pure Theotokos, ⁄ you fulfilled both these wonders in a manner past understanding! [OCA]
Ode 1: Katavasia
Ode i. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.
Moses prefigured the Cross. * Lifting up the rod, he stretched out his hand and split the Sea for Israel to cross on land. * Then he stretched it out again, * and the sea returned and covered Pharaoh’s chariots. * The Cross was thus portrayed as our invincible armor. * So let us sing to the Lord, * Christ our God, for He is greatly glorified. [GOASD]
Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-1
Ode iii.
Canon 1 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode 2.
Στερέωσον ἡμᾶς ἐν σοὶ Κύριε.
Establish us in You, Lord, we pray to You, * who mortified sin by Your crucifixion, * and implant in us the fear of You * within the hearts of Your servants who sing Your praise. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
The holy parents, who had lived before the Lord without reproach ⁄ brought forth the salvation of all, ⁄ giving birth to the one who bore our Creator and our God. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
The Lord, Who is a spring of life to all, ⁄ led forth the Virgin from a barren womb. ⁄ He was well pleased to enter into her, ⁄ preserving her virginity inviolate after childbirth. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Let us exalt Mary today: ⁄ the fruit of Anna who brought forth the Life-giving cluster. ⁄ Let us sing her praises as the Theotokos, ⁄ protector and helper of us all. [OCA]
Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-2
Canon 2 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode pl. 4.
Ἐστερεώθη ἡ καρδία μου.
My heart exults and in the Lord firmly is established; * and in my God is my horn exalted; * and my mouth is open wide at my enemies, and in Your salvation I rejoice. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Blessed is your womb, Anna of sober spirit, ⁄ for it brought forth the fruit of virginity: ⁄ she who bore Jesus without seed, ⁄ the Food and Deliverance of all creation. [OCA]
Glory. For the Trinity.
We worship You, Father, in essence without beginning. ⁄ We sing the praises of Your everlasting Son, ⁄ and we venerate the co-eternal Spirit: ⁄ for the Three are by nature One God. [OCA]
Both now. Theotokion.
Undefiled Theotokos, ⁄ you bore the Light-giver and Cause of the life of mankind; ⁄ You are revealed as the treasure of our Life, ⁄ and the unapproachable gateway of the Light. [OCA]
Ode 3: Katavasia
Ode iii. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.
The rod of Aaron is seen as typifying the mystery; * for it budded, and thus was the priest selected. * Now in the Church, that was barren once, the Cross of Christ, like a tree, * has blossomed forth, * as power and a firm support. [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
From Menaion - - -
READER
Hypakoe. Mode 2.
The prophet spoke of the holy Virgin as the gate ⁄ through which none save our God alone might pass. ⁄ The Lord came through her; the Most High came forth from her, ⁄⁄ yet He left her sealed, delivering our life from corruption! [OCA]
Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-1
From Menaion - - -
CHOIR
Ode iv.
Canon 1 of the Feast.
Mode 2. Heirmos (not metered).
Εἰσακήκοα Κύριε, τὴν ἀκοήν.
I have heard, Lord, the news of Your dispensation, ⁄ and I have glorified You, only Lover of mankind! [OCA]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
We sing Your praises, Lord, ⁄ for You have given her who bore You ⁄ to all the faithful as a haven of salvation. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Christ revealed you to all, Bride of God, ⁄ as the boast and strength of those who sing the praises ⁄ of your mystery with faith. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Gratefully we call you blessed, unwedded Lady, ⁄ absolved from sin by your supplication. [OCA]
Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-2
Canon 2 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode pl. 4.
Ἀκήκοα Κύριε τὴν ἀκοήν.
I heard Your report, O Lord, and was afraid and greatly astonished, * that You the eternal God, in counsel ineffable, * became incarnate and were born of the Virgin. * Glory to Your glory, O Christ! * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Let us, the faithful, in songs and hymns ⁄ glorify the all-holy birth of the Theotokos! ⁄ Let us worship with faith the God Who never lies, ⁄ and Who swore of old to David to give him the fruit of his body. [OCA]
Glory. For the Trinity.
I glorify You, unoriginate Trinity, ⁄ undivided in essence, ⁄ and with my tongue of clay I cry aloud as the cherubim: ⁄ Holy, Holy, Holy is the Existing One ⁄ Who ever remains the One Eternal God! [OCA]
Both now. Theotokion.
The prophesies of those inspired by God ⁄ are now fulfilled in your birth, undefiled One: ⁄ those who in their faith called you the tabernacle and Gate, ⁄ spiritual mountain, bush, and the rod of Aaron ⁄ sprung from the root of David! [OCA]
Ode 4: Katavasia
Ode iv. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.
I have heard the report, O Lord, * of Your incarnation, which is a mystery. * I considered Your astounding works, * and I glorified Your divinity. [GOASD]
Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-1
Ode v.
Canon 1 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode 2.
Ὁ σκιόγραφον ἀχλύν.
You dispelled the misty shadow of prophetic enigmas, * and You illumined the hearts of the believers * by their true fulfillment in the all-holy Theotokos. * We entreat You to guide us, O Christ, by Your holy light. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Come, people, let us sing the praises of the Author of all, ⁄ Who caused Himself to become like us. ⁄ The prophets rejoiced, counted worthy to behold the images that prefigured Him, ⁄ and now as fruit, they enjoy His manifest salvation. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Come, people, let us sing the praises of the Author of all, ⁄ Who caused Himself to become like us. ⁄ The prophets rejoiced, counted worthy to behold the images that prefigured Him, ⁄ and now as fruit, they enjoy His manifest salvation. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
The shoot of the sapless rod ⁄ revealed the chosen priest to Israel, ⁄ and now in a marvelous fashion ⁄ the all-glorious offspring from a barren womb ⁄ manifests the shining glory of her parents. [OCA]
Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-2
Canon 2 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode pl. 4.
Κύριε ὁ Θεὸς ἡμῶν.
O Lord our God, give peace to us, for You have rendered all. * O Lord our God, we pray, take possession of us. * Lord, O Lord, we do not know any other God except for You, and we name Your name. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Your nativity was undefiled, Virgin: ⁄ your conception and travail were ineffable. ⁄ your child-bearing was past speech, unwedded Bride, ⁄ for it was God, Who has entirely clothed Himself in me. [OCA]
Glory. For the Trinity.
We worship You, undivided Trinity, ⁄ unoriginate, uncreated, co-eternal, one in nature, ⁄ wondrously proclaimed to all eternity ⁄ in one essence and three Persons. [OCA]
Both now. Theotokion.
Your womb has become a holy table; ⁄ your purity has remained undefiled, Virgin. ⁄ Christ the Sun has come forth from you ⁄ as a Bridegroom out of His chamber! [OCA]
Ode 5: Katavasia
Ode v. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.
Tree of the Cross, you are thrice-blessed, * for Jesus Christ, who is King and Lord, was crucified on you. * Through you fallen is the one who by a tree deceived us, * for he was lured by God who in the flesh indeed * was hung and nailed to you, * and who grants to our souls His peace. [GOASD]
Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-1
Ode vi.
Canon 1 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode 2.
Πρὸς Κύριον ἐκ κήτους.
The Prophet Jonah cried to the Lord from the sea creature, * “I pray You, Lord my God, from the depth of Hades raise me up, * that with a voice of praise, I may sacrifice to You * in a spirit of truth, O Deliverer.” [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
In their barren affliction ⁄ the holy parents of the Theotokos cried aloud to the Lord, ⁄ and they brought her forth ⁄ for the common salvation and glory of all generations. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
In their barren affliction ⁄ the holy parents of the Theotokos cried aloud to the Lord, ⁄ and they brought her forth ⁄ for the common salvation and glory of all generations. [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
The holy parents of the Theotokos ⁄ received from heaven a gift worthy of God, ⁄ a throne higher than the very cherubim: ⁄ she who in childbirth bore the Word and Creator. [OCA]
Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-2
Canon 2 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode pl. 4.
Ὡς ὕδατα θαλάσσης.
The troubles of my life are like storms at sea, * O Logos, and the waves are afflicting me. * I cry to You, as once did the Prophet Jonah, * to raise my life from corruption, O only Lord and compassionate God. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
We sing the praises of your holy birth, Virgin and Bride of God, ⁄ and venerate your conceiving without seed, Maiden; ⁄ and with us the ranks of angels and the souls of the saints dance for joy! [OCA]
Glory. For the Trinity.
In you, undefiled One, ⁄ the mystery of the Trinity is praised and glorified: ⁄ for the Father was well-pleased with you, ⁄ and in you the Word made His dwelling among us, ⁄ and the Holy Spirit overshadowed you. [OCA]
Both now. Theotokion.
You became a golden censer, ⁄ for the Fire made His tabernacle in your womb: ⁄ the Word from the Holy Spirit, ⁄ and He was seen in the form of a man, pure Theotokos. [OCA]
Ode 6: Katavasia
Ode vi. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.
In the belly of the sea beast * the prophet Jonah prayed with his arms extended crosswise; * thus he clearly prefigured the saving Passion of Christ. * When after three days he emerged, * he was depicting the supernal resurrection from the dead * of Christ God, who was physically nailed to the Cross * and by His third-day arising illumined the universe. [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 4.
Both Joachim and Anna from their sterility’s stigma, and Adam and Eve from their mortality’s ruin have been set free, O immaculate Maid, by your holy nativity. For this do your people hold celebration, redeemed from the guilt of transgression as they cry to you, “The barren one bears the Theotokos, the nourisher of our Life.” [GKD]
Oikos.
The prayer with the sigh, sterile and barren, of Joachim and of Anna, was well-received in the ears of the Lord. It unbound them and they blossomed the fruit that brings life to the world. For while he on the mountain did offer a prayer, she in the garden the reproach did bear. But then with joy the barren one bears the Theotokos, the nourisher of our Life. [GKD]
Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.
Synaxarion
From the Menaion.
On September 12 was the veneration of the precious staves, and the contest of the holy hieromartyr Autonomus.
By the intercessions of Your Saints, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.
Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-1
CHOIR
From Menaion - - -
Ode vii.
Canon 1 of the Feast.
Heirmos. Mode 2.
Βάτος ἐν ὄρει.
The burning bush that was not consumed * and the Chaldean furnace that emitted due * indeed prefigured you, O Bride of God. * You accepted in your womb, which was material, divine * immaterial fire * without being burnt. So to your Son we cry * and say, “O God of our Fathers, You are blessed.” [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Of old, the giver of the Law, all-holy Lady, ⁄ was unable to understand the invisible manifestation of your great mystery, ⁄ though he was taught through symbols ⁄ not to think earthly thoughts: ⁄ therefore, astonished at this wonder, he said: ⁄ Blessed are You, the God of our fathers! [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Of old, the giver of the Law, all-holy Lady, ⁄ was unable to understand the invisible manifestation of your great mystery, ⁄ though he was taught through symbols ⁄ not to think earthly thoughts: ⁄ therefore, astonished at this wonder, he said: ⁄ Blessed are You, the God of our fathers! [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Inspired by God, ⁄ the divine choir spoke of you in prophecy ⁄ as the mountain, the gate of heaven, and the spiritual ladder; ⁄ for a stone was hewn from you, not cut by hand of man, ⁄ and you are the gate through which has passed the Lord of wonders, ⁄ the God of our fathers. [OCA]
Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-2
Canon 2 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode pl. 4.
Τῶν Χαλδαίων ἡ κάμινος.
All ablaze with a raging fire was the Chaldean furnace, * through which blew a dew-laden breeze at God’s almighty order. * The three holy Servants sang, * “You are the God of our fathers, and blessed are You.” [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
We honor and celebrate your holy birth ⁄ according to the promise, undefiled One, ⁄ for by it, through Christ’s appearance, ⁄ we have been delivered from Adam’s ancient curse. [OCA]
Glory. For the Trinity.
Let us glorify the Father, Son and Spirit ⁄ in unity of Godhead: ⁄ the most Holy Trinity, ⁄ undivided, uncreated, co-eternal ⁄ and one in essence. [OCA]
Both now. Theotokion.
You alone Virgin after childbirth, have brought forth God; ⁄ you have renewed our nature by your bearing, Mary. ⁄ You have released Eve from the ancestral curse, ⁄ pure Theotokos. [OCA]
Ode 7: Katavasia
Ode vii. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.
The impious tyrant’s preposterous decree disturbed the populace, * breathing threats and blasphemous pronouncements hateful to God. * His brutal anger did not intimidate * the three Servants, nor did the consuming fire. * But when the dew-laden breeze whistled against the fire, they joined it and together sang, * “Blessed are You, O Lord. You are highly praised, O God, the God of our fathers.” [GOASD]
Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-1
Ode viii.
Canon 1 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode 2.
Ἐν τῇ καμίνῳ.
O Lord, Your Mother was prefigured * within the furnace of the three Servants in Babylon of old. * For the type delivered them from being consumed * by fire when they entered it. * Now the Virgin was manifested * to the whole wide world through You; and today * we extol and highly exalt her to the ages. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
The preordained tabernacle of our reconciliation with God ⁄ now comes into being. ⁄ She is the one who will bear the Word for us ⁄ appearing in the material substance of the flesh. ⁄ He has brought us from non-existence into being! ⁄ We sing His praises, and exalt Him above all forever! [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
The preordained tabernacle of our reconciliation with God ⁄ now comes into being. ⁄ She is the one who will bear the Word for us ⁄ appearing in the material substance of the flesh. ⁄ He has brought us from non-existence into being! ⁄ We sing His praises, and exalt Him above all forever! [OCA]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
Anna’s barrenness was transformed, ⁄ destroying the world’s barrenness of good things. ⁄ This wonder plainly foreshadowed Christ’s coming to dwell with mortals. ⁄ He has brought us from non-existence into being! ⁄ We sing His praises, and exalt Him above all forever! [OCA]
Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-2
Canon 2 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode pl. 4.
Ὁ στεγάζων ἐν ὕδασι.
In the waters You lay the beams of upper chambers, O Christ. * For the sea You placed the sand as its bound. You hold all things in Your hand. * Sun and moon glorify, sing Your praise, and extol You. * Lord, to You the Maker and Creator, * all creation offers worship, unto the ages. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
You have wrought wonders for the barren womb of Anna, ⁄ You have opened her childless side and given her fruit: ⁄ You are the holy God, ⁄ You are the Son of the Virgin: ⁄ You have taken flesh from her, ⁄ the ever-flowering Virgin and Theotokos. [OCA]
Glory. For the Trinity.
Trinity, supreme in being, ⁄ Unity without beginning, ⁄ the ranks of angels sing Your praises in trembling before You. ⁄ Earth, heaven, and the seas stand in awe of You; ⁄ mankind blesses You! ⁄ Fire is Your servant: ⁄ all created things obey You in fear, Holy Trinity! [OCA]
Both now. Theotokion.
Strangest of tidings! ⁄ God has become the Son of a woman! ⁄ The birth was without seed, the Mother knew not a man, ⁄ and the Child she bore is God. ⁄ Awesome sight and ineffable birth! ⁄ Strange conceiving by the Virgin! ⁄ All these things are indeed beyond vision and understanding. [OCA]
Ode 8: Katavasia
Ode viii. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.
We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.
You three pious Servants, * same in number as the Trinity, * bless God the Father, Maker of all; * sing a hymn to the Word who condescended * and who changed the fire in the furnace into dew; * as for the all-holy Spirit, who gives life to all, exalt Him * beyond measure unto the ages. [GOASD]
Kontakia and Synaxarion
From Menaion - - -
READER
Kontakion.
Mode 4.
Both Joachim and Anna from their sterility’s stigma, and Adam and Eve from their mortality’s ruin have been set free, O immaculate Maid, by your holy nativity. For this do your people hold celebration, redeemed from the guilt of transgression as they cry to you, “The barren one bears the Theotokos, the nourisher of our Life.” [GKD]
Oikos.
The prayer with the sigh, sterile and barren, of Joachim and of Anna, was well-received in the ears of the Lord. It unbound them and they blossomed the fruit that brings life to the world. For while he on the mountain did offer a prayer, she in the garden the reproach did bear. But then with joy the barren one bears the Theotokos, the nourisher of our Life. [GKD]
Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.
Synaxarion
From the Menaion.
On September 12 was the veneration of the precious staves, and the contest of the holy hieromartyr Autonomus.
By the intercessions of Your Saints, O God, have mercy on us. Amen.
Katavasias Odes 1-8
CHOIR
Katavasias of the Cross
Ode i. Mode pl. 4.
Moses prefigured the Cross. * Lifting up the rod, he stretched out his hand and split the Sea for Israel to cross on land. * Then he stretched it out again, * and the sea returned and covered Pharaoh’s chariots. * The Cross was thus portrayed as our invincible armor. * So let us sing to the Lord, * Christ our God, for He is greatly glorified. [GOASD]
Ode iii.
The rod of Aaron is seen as typifying the mystery; * for it budded, and thus was the priest selected. * Now in the Church, that was barren once, the Cross of Christ, like a tree, * has blossomed forth, * as power and a firm support. [GOASD]
Ode iv.
I have heard the report, O Lord, * of Your incarnation, which is a mystery. * I considered Your astounding works, * and I glorified Your divinity. [GOASD]
Ode v.
Tree of the Cross, you are thrice-blessed, * for Jesus Christ, who is King and Lord, was crucified on you. * Through you fallen is the one who by a tree deceived us, * for he was lured by God who in the flesh indeed * was hung and nailed to you, * and who grants to our souls His peace. [GOASD]
Ode vi.
In the belly of the sea beast * the prophet Jonah prayed with his arms extended crosswise; * thus he clearly prefigured the saving Passion of Christ. * When after three days he emerged, * he was depicting the supernal resurrection from the dead * of Christ God, who was physically nailed to the Cross * and by His third-day arising illumined the universe. [GOASD]
Ode vii.
The impious tyrant’s preposterous decree disturbed the populace, * breathing threats and blasphemous pronouncements hateful to God. * His brutal anger did not intimidate * the three Servants, nor did the consuming fire. * But when the dew-laden breeze whistled against the fire, they joined it and together sang, * “Blessed are You, O Lord. You are highly praised, O God, the God of our fathers.” [GOASD]
Ode viii.
We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.
You three pious Servants, * same in number as the Trinity, * bless God the Father, Maker of all; * sing a hymn to the Word who condescended * and who changed the fire in the furnace into dew; * as for the all-holy Spirit, who gives life to all, exalt Him * beyond measure unto the ages. [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: Menaion: Canon-1
From Menaion - - -
Ode ix.
Canon 1 of the Feast.
Mode 2. Heirmos.
Ἡ τὸν πρὸ ἡλίου φωστῆρα.
Lady, from your virginal belly * you ineffably embodied God, * the luminary who arose before the sun, * and the One who came down to us * and dwelt among us bodily. * O blessed and all-holy one, * you, O Theotokos, do we magnify. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
To the disobedient peoples * He poured out water from a rock, * but to the nations that obey, He gives a gift: * from the loins of one barren comes the fruit that brings us cheerfulness, * you, the pure Mother of our God, * whom as is fitting we do magnify. [SD]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
To the disobedient peoples * He poured out water from a rock, * but to the nations that obey, He gives a gift: * from the loins of one barren comes the fruit that brings us cheerfulness, * you, the pure Mother of our God, * whom as is fitting we do magnify. [SD]
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
You are she, who has rescinded * the severe decree of ancient times; * and you are she, who raised up our Progenitrix; * you are she, who has caused our race to be adopted back by God, * a bridge to our Creator you, * blessed Theotokos, do we magnify. [SD]
Ode 9: Menaion: Canon-2
Canon 2 of the Feast.
From Menaion - - -
Heirmos. Mode pl. 4.
Ἀλλότριον τῶν μητέρων.
Virginity is a state alien to mothers, * and childbirth is foreign to those who are virgins. * But in you, Theotokos, have both of these been accomplished. * Indeed all generations everywhere * now call you blessed evermore. [SD]
Troparia.
Most-holy Theotokos, save us.
O Mother of God, as deserving of your pure virtue, * your birth comes in fulfillment of a solemn promise. * Unto her, the infertile, a fruit from God has been given; * Indeed all generations everywhere * now call you blessed evermore. [SD]
Glory. For the Trinity.
Estranged indeed from the lawless is glorifying, * the Trinity eternal, the Father and the Son, who * with the all-Holy Spirit, is uncreated God almighty, * through whom the whole wide world is held in sway, * by order of His awesome might. [SD]
Both now. Theotokion.
You carried within your womb -- you, the Virgin Mother -- * a Person of the Trinity, Christ the King and Master. * All creation sings His praises as Thrones above are seized with trembling. * Entreat Him fervently, all-honored Maid, * to grant salvation to our souls. [SD]
Ode 9: Katavasia
Ode ix. Katavasia. Mode pl. 4.
Theotokos, you are mystical Paradise, * for without husbandry you have blossomed Christ, * by whom on earth the Cross, as a life-bearing tree, has been planted and watered. * As it is now exalted, * we adore Him and worship Him and magnify 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
Exaposteilaria.
From Menaion - - -
Mode 2. O Women, hearken.
Γυναῖκες ἀκουτίσθητε.
Today the reaches of the world * are festive and most jubilant * because of your birth, O Mary, * the Maiden and Theotokos, * and Virgin Bride who knew no man. * In being born, you have reversed * the sad reproach of barrenness * on your parents and the curse in childbirth * on Eve our ancestral mother. [SD]
Another.
Mode 2. O Women, hearken.
Γυναῖκες ἀκουτίσθητε.
O Adam, be renewed today, * and you, O Eve, be magnified. * O Prophets with the Apostles * together dance with the Righteous. * A common joy in all the world * is shared by Angels and mankind. * Today from righteous parentage, * from Joachim and Anna, * is born the true Theotokos. [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.
From Menaion - - -
Mode 1. Marvel at the wondrous paradox.
Ὢ τοῦ παραδόξου θαύματος.
Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to the abundance of His greatness. [SAAS]
What a paradoxical miracle! * That the fountain of life from a barren wife is born, * that grace, fulgent, may commence to bear its fruit henceforth. * Be joyous, O Joachim, * having become the God-bearer’s progenitor! * There is no one else like you * in generations of paternity, O godly one, * for the God-receiving Maiden, the tabernacle of our God * the mountain all-holy, unto us has been bestowed through you. [SD]
Praise Him with the sound of trumpet; praise Him with the harp and lyre. [SAAS]
What a paradoxical miracle! * That the fountain of life from a barren wife is born, * that grace, fulgent, may commence to bear its fruit henceforth. * Be joyous, O Joachim, * having become the God-bearer’s progenitor! * There is no one else like you * in generations of paternity, O godly one, * for the God-receiving Maiden, the tabernacle of our God * the mountain all-holy, unto us has been bestowed through you. [SD]
Praise Him with timbrel and dance; praise Him with strings and flute. [SAAS]
What a paradoxical miracle! * The barren one’s fruit is brought forth at the command * of Him who has made all things, and our almighty God; * and deftly He has redeemed * the worldly realm that was sterile of His good things. * O mothers, in chorus join * the Theotokos’ own mother and cry aloud, “Lady full of grace, rejoice, * for the Lord is with you, and at your intercession, He bestows great mercy on the world.” [SD]
Praise Him with resounding cymbals; praise Him with triumphant cymbals; let everything that breathes praise the Lord. [SAAS]
Anna the renowned, appearing as * an animate pillar of chastity and a bright * container shining with grace, has truly given birth * to progeny of her own, * the efflorescence divine of virginity. * And manifestly the Maid * awards virginity’s beauty to virgins all * and to those who truly long for * the grace of virginity, * and she freely is granting * unto all the faithful great mercy. [SD]
Glory. Both now.
From Menaion - - -
Mode pl. 2.
This is the Lord’s Day, O people, be filled with gladness! Behold! The bridal chamber of the Light and the book of the Word of Life has come forth from the womb. The Temple Gate that faces east has been born, and she awaits the entry of the Great High Priest. She alone introduces the only Christ to the world, for the salvation of our souls. [GKD]
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 Menaion - - -
Mode 4.
Your Nativity, O Theotokos, imparted joy to the entire earth, for out of you has risen the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God. He nullified the curse and instead gave His blessing; and causing death to be neutralized, He granted us eternal life. [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 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.