Matins - Customizable Thursday, September 26, 2024

Books - Sources

Menaion - September 26

The Translation of St. John the Theologian

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MATINS

CHOIR

Mode 2.

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 2.

- c1211 - SDedes

O Apostle, the beloved of Christ God, hasten to deliver us, a people that has no excuse. He accepts you supplicating Him, for He condescended at the Supper to let you lean on Him. Entreat Him, O Theologian, that He scatter the persistent cloud of hostile nations, and pray for us, for peace and great mercy. [SD]

Glory. Repeat.

Both now. Theotokion.

From Octoechos - - -

Mode 2.

All surpassing every thought, all surpassing glorious, O Theotokos, are your mysteries. With your chastity sealed and your virginity preserved, still you are a mother in truth, for to the true God you gave birth. We pray you fervently entreat Him to save our souls. [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 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 pl. 4. By conceiving the wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

- c1211 - SDedes

You were called Son of Thunder that is divine, * for you deafened the ears of impious men; * and louder than any horn you resounded, mellifluous, * the Incarnation of the Logos, all-wise one, in upright hearts. * And you lay close to his breast as a genuine friend of His. * Thereby you exhausted the profound depth of knowledge, * and preached the Unoriginate of the Father to everyone, O divine Apostle John. * 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. Automelon.

- c1211 - SDedes

By conceiving the Wisdom and Word of God * in your womb inexplicably, Mother of God, * for the world’s sake you carried Him who has the whole world in His hand, * and in your arms you held Him who holds together the universe, * which He provides with food, as its Creator and Lord. * Therefore, O all-holy Virgin Mary, I pray you, * that I be forgiven of my offenses when I shall stand before Him who created me. * O all-lauded Lady most pure, I implore you to assist me in that hour. * I am sure you can accomplish whatever you wish. [SD]

Kathisma II.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

- c1211 - SDedes

You abandoned the fishery of the sea, * and instead you were catching the nations all * as fish, with the fishing rod of the Cross, O all-lauded one. * And it became apparent that you were a fisher of men, * catching them for true faith, as Christ once had said to you. * Therefore, O Apostle Theologian, by sowing * the knowledge of God the Word with your preaching you reaped the fruits from Patmos and Ephesus. * 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.

- c1211 - SDedes

I remember the judgment and I am scared, * having done shameful deeds, lowly that I am. * And therefore I pray to you, O all-lauded Theotokos: * Before the night of death overcomes me, make me convert * and guide me to the way of repentance and remedy, * so that I may worship your immeasurable power * and gratefully sing in praise of the help I receive from you. * O all-holy Bride of God, * intercede with Christ our God, I entreat you, that He may bestow on me * expiation of all my offenses and great mercy. [SD]

Kathisma III.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 4. By conceiving the wisdom.

Τὴν Σοφίαν καὶ Λόγον.

- c1211 - SDedes

As a disciple with close access to the Lord, * at the Supper you leaned close upon His breast * and asked Jesus, “Who is it, O Lord, who will betray you?” * And with the bread He clearly indicated him unto you, * for you were His beloved disciple, O glorious. * Therefore, O Apostle Theologian and mystic * of myst’ries ineffable, you teach the Incarnation * of the Word to the whole wide world. * 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.

- c1211 - SDedes

O all-holy and virgin Mother of God, * cure the terrible passions afflicting my soul, * I earnestly pray to you, and to me grant forgiveness * for the many offenses I have mindlessly committed, * thus defiling my body and soul, wretched that I am. * Oh! and how I shudder at the thought of that hour, * when Angels will separate my soul from my body. * Alas! What shall become of me? * Lady, hence I pray you will come * to my aid as an ardent patroness. * I your unworthy servant have you as my only hope. [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

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

Antiphon 1.

Mode 4.

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

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

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. Psalm 18.

- c1111 - SDedes

His proclamation went forth into all the earth, and his words to the ends of the world. (2)

Verse: The heavens declare the glory of God; the firmament shows the creation of His hands.

His proclamation went forth into all the earth, and his words to the ends of the world. [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 John.

DEACON: Let us be attentive.

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

PRIEST (from the gate)

Jn. 21:14 – 25

At that time, Jesus revealed himself to the disciples after he was raised from the dead. And he said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” A second time he said to him, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself and walked where you would; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go.” (This he said to show by what death he was to glorify God.) And after this he said to him, “Follow me.” Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!” The saying spread abroad among the brethren that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?” This is the disciple who is bearing witness to these things, and who has written these things; and we know that his testimony is true. But there are also many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen. [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]

From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Glory. Mode 2.

At the intercession of the Apostle, 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 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 Theologian, Virgin, and beloved Disciple of the Savior, we pray that you will keep us safe from any harm, by your intercessions; for we are your flock. [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, glorious and all-lauded Apostle and Theologian, John the Evangelist, whose translation we are celebrating, 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: Menaion: Canon-1

The Canon

From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Ode i.

Canon for the Theotokos.

Heirmos. Mode 2.

Ἐν βυθῷ κατέστρωε.

Long ago the overwhelming Force * utterly destroyed the chariots and army of Pharaoh within the Sea. * Now the Logos put on flesh * and He wiped out malignant sin and its burdens all. * He is Lord, forever glorious, and He is greatly glorified. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

From all women, God selected you, * blameless, holy Virgin pure, * for you were lovely and fair and most beautiful. * As a babe He dwelt within your all-blameless womb. * We implore you, all-blameless one, * pray to Him to free from blame of their transgressions all who sing your praise. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

As the Psalmist said it long ago, * you stood at the right hand of the divine King, who came forth from your holy womb, * as a Queen, O Virgin pure. * Pray to Him for me, to permit me place to stand * near Him on His right hand, * on that day of just rewards, O Bride of God. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Dry was human nature to the core, * due to all its deviance. * But you gave birth to rain from heaven, namely Christ, * who through you renewed it all. * I implore you now, make the soil of my sorry soul * once again be fruitful, * for my sins have dried it up, O Bride of God. [GOASD]

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-2

From the Menaion. Canon 2.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (Long ago the overwhelming Force.)

Ἐν βυθῷ κατέστρωε.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

As your reward, blessed one, ⁄ companion of the Heavenly Word, ⁄ you have received the Kingdom of Heaven which you proclaimed. ⁄ By your prayers protect those who believe in your holy teaching and theology! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You despised all earthly things, and nature’s bonds ⁄ by your strength of mind. ⁄ In thought and understanding you dwelt with the Word of Wisdom. ⁄ You set free from error ⁄ those who were living without reason. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You received knowledge of heavenly things, ⁄ and proclaimed the Word of God, divine one: ⁄ In the beginning was the Word! ⁄ The Word was with God Who begot Him, ⁄ and the Word was God! ⁄ These are the good tidings you preached aloud. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The choir of virgins sings of your beauty, Theotokos, ⁄ divine Lady, most blessed among women, ⁄ made glorious by the grace of divinity. ⁄ For beyond words, you conceived the Word, ⁄ the Author of all beauty. [OCA]

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-3

From the Menaion. Canon 3.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2. N/M (When they had walked.)

Ὡς ἐν ἠπείρῳ πεζεύσας.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

With your mind enlightened ⁄ and humbled by the depths of the Spirit, ⁄ you made the fearful birth plain to us, Theologian ⁄ as you cried aloud: ⁄ In the beginning was the Word of God! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

As you heal the deadly passions of our souls, ⁄ most wise physician, ⁄ by your intercession ⁄ deliver us from eternal condemnation and fire. [OCA]

Glory.

We are bent down by a multitude of temptations, ⁄ gravely attacked by passions and afflictions. ⁄ We take refuge in you with faith, O Theologian. ⁄ Come to the aid of your servants! [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

Since you brought forth for us the Incarnate God, ⁄ Beseech Him, pure Virgin, ⁄ to have mercy on us who have greatly sinned against Him ⁄ when He comes on the day of Judgment! [OCA]

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: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode iii.

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 2.

Ἐξήνθησεν ἡ ἔρημος.

The gentile church was formerly like the barren wilderness; * and then it blossomed as the rose * and the lily, when You appeared on earth. * My heart is established in Your Advent, O Lord. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

When He put on my human form, * O all-blameless one, your Son, * the Maker, from your womb came forth; * and to those who because of many sins * had been stripped, He gave robes of immortality. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O Lady, as the Mother of the most honored Word of God, * intently pray to Him for me * to take pity on my dejected soul * that submitted to pleasures that dishonor it. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O Virgin all-immaculate, * heal the bruises on my soul. * With your effective medicine * treat my heart, which is in a sorry state, * for venom of the serpent has infected it. [GOASD]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-2

From the Menaion. Canon 2.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (The gentile church.)

Ἐξήνθησεν ἡ ἔρημος.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

With your tongue confessing God, ⁄ you revealed the ineffable mystery of the Trinity, ⁄ in which you establish my heart, blessed one! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Your tongue was the pen of the All-Holy Spirit, ⁄ making visible in divine words ⁄ the sublime and holy Gospel. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You drew from the abyss of Wisdom, ⁄ leaning with divinely inspired boldness on its source ⁄ about whom you spoke with inspired preaching. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

We honor you, only Virgin Mother, ⁄ for you have been the immaculate intercessor of salvation, ⁄ delivering the world by your prayers! [OCA]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-3

From the Menaion. Canon 3.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2. N/M (No one is holy.)

Οὔκ ἐστιν ἅγιος.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You spoke with the Word with a brilliant and pure mind, ⁄ triply-blessed Divine. ⁄ You learned from Him mysteries that were clearly beyond words, ⁄ and thus you enlightened the world. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Deliver me from the bonds of sin, thrice-blessed Saint, ⁄ and bind me with love for the Master and God, ⁄ Whom you fervently loved, and by Whom you are called divine! [OCA]

Glory.

You are given to us as a champion, ⁄ an advocate, deliverer, and intercessor before the Lord, ⁄ a direct worker of wonders, and fountain of healing. ⁄ Therefore we honor you. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

When the Word, ineffably made flesh of you, ⁄ was lifted up upon the wood of the Cross, Theotokos, ⁄ He entrusted you as a Virgin Mother to the virgin disciple. [OCA]

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

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.

By reclining and leaning on Wisdom’s breast, * you acquired the knowledge of what exists. * Inspired, you thundered, “In the beginning was the Logos.” * You were the first to write of the eternal generation, * and that the Word became flesh, and you proclaimed it to everyone. * Catching in the net of your divine words the nations, * throughout all the world you teach about the grace of the Spirit. * O theologian Apostle John, * intercede with Christ our God, that He grant forgiveness of offenses * to those who with longing observe your holy memory. [GOASD]

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Mode pl. 4. N/M (By conceiving the wisdom.)

As you, Lady, conceived the merciful and compassionate Lord, ⁄ have mercy on all who seek refuge in you. ⁄ Free them from temptations and sickness and every tribulation, ⁄ delivering them from the eternal flame, ⁄ that we may glorify your abundant mercies and immeasurable compassion, ⁄ and cry aloud to you with thanksgiving at all times: ⁄ Intercede with Christ our God, that remission of sins ⁄⁄ may be granted to those who rightly praise your childbearing! [OCA]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode iv.

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 2.

Ἐλήλυθας ἐκ Παρθένου.

You came, O Lord, * not an elder nor angel, but You yourself, * God incarnate, being born of a pure Virgin, thus saving me * and all of humanity. * Therefore I sing to You: * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O Lady, please, let a drop of compunction rain down on me, * which will make the scorching heat subside inside of my aching heart, * and suppress the harmful floods * of the depression afflicting my sorry soul. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Immaculate, holy Virgin, I pray, do not pass me by, * as you see my lying here. The knife of pleasure has wounded me. * Heal me by the spear and blood * of Christ your Son, who is our God who was crucified. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Enriched are you, with the mastery over creation all. * Pleasure has impoverished me. Please make worthy of grace divine, * so that I may magnify * you my benevolent patroness, all-blameless one. [GOASD]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-2

From the Menaion. Canon 2.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (You came, O Lord.)

Ἐλήλυθας ἐκ Παρθένου.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

The Word rightly manifested you as the Theologian, ⁄ initiating you into the mystery of divinity, ⁄ and teaching you the ineffable dispensation of humanity. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Acquiring a divine mind and virgin body, ⁄ you were a living temple and dwelling of the all-praised and holy Trinity, ⁄ living and glorious Saint! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Blessed virgin John, ⁄ you were honored by being made the Son of the most holy and pure Virgin, ⁄ thus showing yourself to be the brother of the One Who chose you, ⁄ making you a perfect disciple and divine Theologian. [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

The supreme God went to dwell in you, spotless one, ⁄ healing the ancient transgression of Eve, ⁄ and fashioning me anew, who had completely fallen. [OCA]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-3

From the Menaion. Canon 3.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2. N/M (The holy Church of God.)

Χριστός μου δύναμις.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You watered all things beneath the sun, glorious Saint, ⁄ drying up the muddy waters of ungodliness. ⁄ Therefore we honor you! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Gird my soul with strength and power, ⁄ I entreat you, most wise one, ⁄ for I am weakened by many afflictions from unclean enemies, ⁄ and I hasten to you for protection. [OCA]

Glory.

As you were a temple of the Holy Spirit, Theologian, ⁄ by your mediation, ⁄ manifest those who ever pray with faith in your divine Church ⁄ to be temples of God indeed. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

Let us sing the praises of the divine temple of God, the holy Virgin, ⁄ and through her, let us all become divine, ⁄ wholly delivered from tribulation. [OCA]

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: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode v.

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 2.

Μεσίτης Θεοῦ.

O Christ our God, * You are the mediator between God and men. * For through You, O Lord, we have access to Your Father, the Author of Light, * in the Spirit, as Paul said, out of the night of ignorance. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Immaculate Maid, * who gave birth to Him who is way and the life, * I pray you to guide me straight on the narrow way, for I have senselessly * hurled myself to perdition and trackless lands of tragedy. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

I foolishly lived * a licentious life, estranging myself from God, * and I have been wandering far away in passions like a foreign land. * Bring be back, holy Virgin, and save me, by your prayers for me. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

I pray, let me drink * from refreshing streams of life that flow from you, * O Mother and Virgin pure; for the flames of sinful deeds are burning me, * and the demons assault me, your servant, and are scorching me. [GOASD]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-2

From the Menaion. Canon 2.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. (N/M)

Μεσίτης Θεοῦ.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You were revealed as a heavenly intellect, Theologian, ⁄ made pure light by grace, ⁄ and divine by your closeness to the Source ⁄ and your eager leaning towards Him. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Your mind was cleansed, your lips sanctified, and your mouth made pure ⁄ when you preached your Gospel, inspired one of God. ⁄ You proclaimed universal salvation to all the faithful. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You lived with Christ from your youth, ⁄ and were chosen and sent by Him as an instrument of grace, ⁄ well-practiced in theology, ⁄ and initiated beyond nature into the glory of the Trinity! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

We now call you blessed, all-pure one, ⁄ in remembrance of your words, ⁄ for through you, we have been made rich in all truth, ⁄ ineffable bliss, and eternal life. [OCA]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-3

From the Menaion. Canon 3.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2. N/M (With Your divine light.)

Τῷ θείῳ φέγγει σου.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You shone as the morning upon those who dwell on earth, ⁄ proclaiming the Orient from on High, Apostle, ⁄ Who came into the world in the flesh ⁄ destroying the darkness of idolatry. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

By your holy teaching of God, Apostle, ⁄ you poured waters on every soul, divine herald. ⁄ Therefore I cry out to you: ⁄ Soften with these waters my heart which is dry and hard from sin. [OCA]

Glory.

I have been wounded by the enemy’s darts. ⁄ By your care, O wise Apostle, make me well, I pray, ⁄ and direct me to the ways of God, ⁄ for I am ever led astray through places with no roads. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

As you stood with the beloved disciple by the Cross of your Son, ⁄ you wept and lamented, immaculate one, ⁄ amazed at His great compassion towards mankind. [OCA]

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: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode vi.

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 2.

Ἐν ἀβύσσῳ πταισμάτων.

Like a deep sea, my sins have encircled me. * I invoke the deep sea of Your ineffable * and unfathomable tender love. * Raise me up from corruption, O Lord my God. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Let me not be the object of ridicule * by the wicked demons, O Lady, on Judgment Day, * but pray for me to Christ, the Judge * and your Son, to regard me with charity. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

I have moved You to wrath with my shameful thoughts * and my wicked deeds and transgressions and sins, O Lord. * Forgive me, by your Mother’s prayers, * in Your mercy, and save me, O Christ my God. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

You gave birth to the Lord of the universe, * who as God will Judge all. Alas, I am self-condemned * in many sins. O Lady, please, * from His just condemnation deliver me. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-2

From the Menaion. Canon 2.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (Like a deep sea, my sins.)

Ἐν ἀβύσσῳ πταισμάτων.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Jesus, my God and Lord, ⁄ accepted your purity and perfect chastity. ⁄ He took you as His brother, Theologian. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You crowned your life with holiness. ⁄ You put your trust in that, and leaned upon the breast of Wisdom: ⁄ From there you drew forth grace, most glorious Saint! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

The great and divine fire of your theology ⁄ enlightened the whole universe ⁄ shining with the radiance of the triune Sun, glorious Saint! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

He Who spread out the heavens by His will, ⁄ made you, who came from this earth ⁄ another, more spacious heaven. ⁄ He appeared as a Sun arising from you! [OCA]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-3

From the Menaion. Canon 3.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2. N/M (I see when my life.)

Τοῦ βίου τὴν θάλασσαν.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

As your tongue spoke of God ⁄ it was indeed the pen of a ready writer, ⁄ inscribing true knowledge and a new commandment ⁄ on the tablets of our hearts, divine one. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You caused the plants of ungodliness ⁄ to wither at the roots! ⁄ Then, as the best of husbandmen, ⁄ you grafted the fear of God within my soul ⁄ making the good fruits of virtue spring up there again, glorious Saint. [OCA]

Glory.

The One Who came forth from the Virgin ⁄ plainly called you her Son. ⁄ Together with her, intercede for all who act in righteousness, ⁄ that being well pleasing to Him ⁄ they may be established as sons of God, O Saint of great renown. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

God was made manifest to mortals ⁄ in the likeness of the flesh He took from you, spotless one. ⁄ Entreat Him at all times, all-holy Virgin, ⁄ to put to death the destructive thoughts of our flesh. [OCA]

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

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.

Who can recount all your mighty deeds, O Virgin? You pour out miracles and you overflow with cures, and you intercede on behalf of our souls, as a Theologian and Friend of Christ. [SD]

Oikos.

Daring and incomprehensible it is to search out celestial heights, and the depths of the sea as well. So just as it is wholly impossible to number the stars and the sand on the shores, so no one is able to tell about the Theologian, so many are the crowns with which Christ has crowned His beloved. He leaned on His chest and ate with Him at the Mystical Supper, as a Theologian and Friend of Christ. [SD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On September 26 we commemorate the Translation of the holy and glorious Apostle and Evangelist, Bosom-friend, Virgin, and Beloved John the Theologian.

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

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-1

CHOIR

From Menaion - - -

Ode vii.

Canon for the Theotokos.

Heirmos. Mode 2.

Ἀντίθεον πρόσταγμα.

The godless decree of the unlawful tyrant * commanded the stoking of the furnace’s fiery flame. * But Christ joined His pious Servants, and He covered them * with the Spirit’s dewy breeze. * He is praised and blessed and exceedingly glorious. [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O Lady, my praise are you and my salvation, * my surest assistance and my fortress unassailable. * I earnestly pray that you will fight for me against * demons who unceasingly attack me and are always seeking to murder me. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

When God with your blood assumed a human body, * O Virgin, through you thereby humanity was deified. * Now I, who succumbing to the passions, lie here defiled * with wounds, pray you save me by your intercessions from the plots of the enemy. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

The furnace in Babylon of old prefigured * your childbirth, O Virgin pure; for the Servants were not consumed; * neither was your womb consumed by the unbearable fire. * Therefore I implore you to deliver me, your servant, from the eternal fire. [GOASD]

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-2

From the Menaion. Canon 2.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (The godless decree.)

Ἀντίθεον πρόσταγμα.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Radiant with a divine outpouring of light, ⁄ you confessed clearly the Holy Spirit ⁄ proceeding from the unoriginate Father, ⁄ and abiding inseparably with the Son ⁄ united in one essence. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

The Sun of Righteousness has set His dwelling in you, blessed saint, ⁄ making you a vibrant heaven, ⁄ proclaiming Christ with a divinely teaching voice, ⁄ blessed and all-glorious Saint. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

All-blessed and glorious Saint, ⁄ power and divine music come from your speech, ⁄ and your Gospel, which goes beyond this world, ⁄ has encompassed the universe by the greatness of its teaching! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

You alone revealed an undefiled conception, ⁄ and a childbirth without corruption, Virgin. ⁄ For you, pure one, brought forth Him Who is above all things, ⁄ and Who became man for the salvation and redemption of His people. [OCA]

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-3

From the Menaion. Canon 3.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2. N/M (In the furnace the Lord’s Angel.)

Δροσοβόλον μὲν τὴν κάμινον.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Let us sing thundering praises of the Theologian, ⁄ resounding to the ends of the earth! ⁄ All that we hear from him amazes us ⁄ and lifts us from earthly things, ⁄ magnifying Christ, the Maker of all. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

The greatness of your temple illumines every thought, ⁄ and is admired by all who see it. ⁄ As we gather there, we ever sing praises of the Maker of all, ⁄ and we praise you faithfully as our advocate! [OCA]

Glory.

We know you as a brightly shining star, ⁄ and we pray, disciple of Christ, ⁄ to be illumined by your shining radiance. ⁄ Deliver us by your intercession from the darkness of passions and tribulations. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

We bless you, spotless one, ⁄ for you conceived the blessed Lord ⁄ Who crowned wretched mortal nature with divine blessings, ⁄ and renewed us, who had aged in corruption! [OCA]

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: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode viii.

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 2.

Κάμινός ποτε.

Heeding the divine decree, the fiery furnace * of old in Babylon distributed its actions and energy; * for it burned up the Chaldean men, * but it refreshed the faithful young men who sang, * saying, “Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. Sing a hymn to Him.” [SD]

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Zealously pursue the virtues, through divine acts, * and keep your distance from all wickedness, my soul, for you have as your * intercessor the immaculate and sympathetic Mother of Christ our God, * the unfailing protectress who is benevolent. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Mother of our God, you freed our human nature * from the ancestral bond and curse. And now, O immaculate * Virgin, I implore you, free my heart from everything that binds it to wickedness, * and bind me to the love of God who created me. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Dismal is my heart, inglorious from sinning. * O Theotokos, who gave birth to Him who is the reflection of * the Father’s glory, please make it shine. Let me partake of glory that never ends, * and I will with faith sing your glory forevermore. [GOASD]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-2

From the Menaion. Canon 2.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. (N/M)

Κάμινός ποτε.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You flashed across the universe ⁄ as a bolt of lightning, blessed one, ⁄ illuminating the world by the radiance of your purity, ⁄ the brightness of your virginity, ⁄ and your teaching of godliness, Beloved of Christ our Lord. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You cleansed your body, soul and mind; ⁄ you announced the good tidings of Christ’s heavenly Gospel. ⁄ Now that you dwell with the angels in heaven, you cry out: ⁄ All works of the Lord, bless the Lord! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You were set up as a pillar of fire; ⁄ a divine offering in the holy temple, ⁄ a throne of Wisdom, and dwelling place of understanding, ⁄ an instrument of music singing; ⁄ All works of the Lord, bless the Lord! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

So as to lift the former curse ⁄ and the sentence of death of our ancestral mother, ⁄ You were born, O Word of God, ⁄ from the Virgin Mother of God, ⁄ bestowing on all indestructible immortality. [OCA]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-3

From the Menaion. Canon 3.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2. N/M (From the flame.)

Ἐκ φλογὸς τοῖς Ὁσίοις.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You overflowed with eloquence, blessed Saint, ⁄ enlivening all who received your holy preaching, ⁄ who had been put to death by evil! ⁄ Therefore we honor you as the initiate of ineffable things. [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

Your divine temple has been revealed as another paradise, ⁄ making glad the hearts of all mankind ⁄ with the flowers of your miracles ⁄ which overwhelm the evil smell of the passions. [OCA]

Glory.

O God, my God, hear me! ⁄ Deliver me from the enemies that daily assail me ⁄ and break my humble heart ⁄ as Your divine Disciple intercedes with You. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

As you are filled with divine grace, ⁄ entreat Jesus, the Savior whom you bore Incarnate from your pure blood ⁄ to take pity on your servants ⁄ and pluck us from eternal punishments. [OCA]

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]

Kontakia and Synaxarion

From Menaion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode 2.

Who can recount all your mighty deeds, O Virgin? You pour out miracles and you overflow with cures, and you intercede on behalf of our souls, as a Theologian and Friend of Christ. [SD]

Oikos.

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On September 26 we commemorate the Translation of the holy and glorious Apostle and Evangelist, Bosom-friend, Virgin, and Beloved John the Theologian.

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

Katavasias Odes 1-8

CHOIR

Katavasias of Theotokos

Ode i. Mode 4.

Ode iii.

Ode iv.

Ode v.

Ode vi.

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 vii.

Ode viii.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Stand for the singing of Ode ix.

DEACON

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

CHOIR

Magnificat: Mode of Canon

Ode ix.

The Magnificat. Mode 2.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ode 9: Menaion: Canon-1

From the Menaion. Canon 1.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 2.

Ἀνάρχου Γεννήτορος.

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

Troparia.

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

When Adam succumbed and ate forbidden fruit, he bitterly * garnered death and mortality from the tree of old. * When your Son was willingly nailed to the holy tree, He poured out the sweetness * of true immortality. Hence we honor you, O Virgin pure. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O Lady, the Queen are you, for you gave birth ineffably * to the King and the Lord, who dissolved the realm of hell. * O all-holy Virgin, implore Him, that He account worthy of the kingdom * of heaven your servants all, who with faith and longing honor you. [GOASD]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

O Lady, I pray you to do good to my pathetic heart, * for indulgence in pleasure has harmed and wounded it. * You have given birth to the Good God, and you yourself are good, blessed Virgin. * To the good and open gates of repentance please direct my steps. [GOASD]

Ode 9: Menaion: Canon-2

From the Menaion. Canon 2.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2. N/M (To us was revealed.)

Ἀνάρχου Γεννήτορος.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You have been made worthy now to see face to face, ⁄ and no longer in shadows, ⁄ the Stream of delight and the River of peace; ⁄ the Fountain of immortality. ⁄ In His refreshment, you rejoice in being made divine! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You had asked to receive an earthly seat next to Christ, ⁄ but He will give you His breast on which to lean: ⁄ a firm and eternal place of rest ⁄ which has blessed you with goodness and beauty ⁄ adornment of the Apostles! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

You quenched the ungodly wisdom of the Greeks, declaring: ⁄ In the beginning was the Word! ⁄ And, Saint, you proclaimed: The Word was with God, ⁄ and God was truly the Word, ⁄ through Whom come all things both visible, and invisible! [OCA]

Most-holy Theotokos, save us.

Theotokion.

All-pure Mother of God, ⁄ you are seen in the morning as the dawn of life, ⁄ shining with rays of virginity, ⁄ And showing us the rising of the spiritual Sun of righteousness! [OCA]

Ode 9: Menaion: Canon-3

From the Menaion. Canon 3.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2. N/M (It is impossible.)

Θεὸν ἀνθρώποις.

Saint of God, intercede for us.

The Deliverer, Lord of time and hours, ⁄ was hung upon the Cross at mid-day. ⁄ He commended the ever-Virgin to you, blessed virgin one. ⁄ He gave you a glory which cannot be taken away. ⁄ Therefore we magnify you with faith! [OCA]

Saint of God, intercede for us.

As you dwell on high with the divine powers, ⁄ singing with them the heavenly hymn, ⁄ save those, Apostle of Christ, by your mediation, ⁄ who sing and praise God, the transcendent Good One! [OCA]

Glory.

Save us from danger, blessed Theologian, ⁄ for we call on you with faith. ⁄ Direct our steps rightly to the Lord by the Spirit, ⁄ and guide us in the way of peace, ⁄ in the commandments of the Almighty One. [OCA]

Both now. Theotokion.

Let us sing praises with thanksgiving to the Mother of God, ⁄ and let us cry aloud to her: Rejoice, cloud of light; ⁄ Rejoice, Eden, through whom we shall be granted the joy of Paradise! [OCA]

Magnificat: Mode of Katavasia

Ode ix.

The Magnificat. Mode 4.