Matins - Customizable Wednesday, December 25, 2024

Books - Sources

Menaion - December 25

The Nativity in the Flesh of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ

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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 Christ our God, has caused the light of knowledge to rise upon the world. For therein the worshippers of the stars were by a star instructed to worship You, the Sun of Righteousness, and to know You as Orient from on high. Glory to You, O Lord. [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.

- c1211 - SDedes

Come, believers, let us see the place where Christ has been born.* With the Magi, those three kings who from the orient are,* now let us follow to where the star is proceeding.* Ceaselessly do Angels sing praises there.* Shepherds in the field sing a worthy song,* saying: Glory in the highest be to Him who* was born today in the grotto* from the Virgin and Theotokos,* in Bethlehem of Judea. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Repeat.

Kathisma II.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.

- c1211 - SDedes

Mary, why are you amazed and awed by what was done in you? * And she answers, “For in time I have brought forth a timeless Son. * But I have no understanding of His conception. * Husbandless am I: how can I bear a son? * Who has ever seen seedless childbirth? * But where God wills, the order found in nature * is overcome, as it is written.” * So Christ was born from the Virgin Maiden, * in Bethlehem of Judea. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Repeat.

Kathisma III.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 4. Joseph marveled.

Κατεπλάγη Ἰωσήφ.

- c1211 - SDedes

He whom nothing can contain has been contained in a womb. * He is in the Father’s bosom and His Mother’s embrace. * How can this be, but as He knows and willed and was well pleased. * Fleshless as He was, He willingly took flesh. * And He Who Is became what He was not, for us. * And while departing not from His own nature, * He shared in our nature’s substance. * So Christ was born with dual natures, * wishing to replenish the world on high. [SD]

Glory. Both now. Repeat.

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 109.

- c1111 - SDedes

I have begotten You from the womb before the morning star. The Lord swore and will not repent. (2)

Verse: The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at My right hand, until I make your enemies the footstool of Your feet.”

I have begotten You from the womb before the morning star. The Lord swore and will not repent. [SAAS]

Stand for the Gospel reading.

DEACON: Let us pray to the Lord.

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy.

PRIEST

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

CHOIR: Amen.

Mode 2.

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

DEACON

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

CHOIR: Lord, have mercy. (3)

DEACON

Wisdom. Arise. Let us hear the holy Gospel.

PRIEST: Peace be with all.

CHOIR: And with your spirit.

PRIEST

The reading is from the holy Gospel according to Matthew.

DEACON: Let us be attentive.

CHOIR

Glory to You, O Lord, glory to You.

PRIEST (from the gate)

Mt. 1:18 – 25

The birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne her firstborn son; and he called his name Jesus. [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.

All things are filled with joy today, for Christ is born from the Virgin. [SD]

Both now.

All things are filled with joy today, for Christ is born from the Virgin. [SD]

Idiomelon. Mode pl. 2.

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

Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth. Today Bethlehem receives him who is ever seated with the Father. Today Angels glorify in a manner fitting God the babe that is born. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, and good will among men. [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; 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

From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Ode i.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Heirmos. Mode 1.

Χριστὸς γεννᾶται.

Christ is born; glorify Him! * Christ is come from heaven; go and meet Him. * Christ is on earth; arise to Him. * Sing to the Lord, all you who dwell on the earth; * and in merry spirits, O you peoples, praise His birth. * For He is glorified. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Man was made in the image of God. * Because of his transgression he tumbled down, * and was to corruption wholly bound, * falling from a divine, superior life. * Now the wise Creator once again refashions Him. * For He is glorified. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The Master Builder, seeing collapsed * the man whom He constructed with His own hands, * bowing the heavens now descends. * And through a pure and holy Virgin unites * wholly with his nature, having truly taken flesh. * For He is glorified. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Christ our God, as the Father’s Son, * His wisdom, Logos, power and radiance, * eluding the powers everywhere, * extraterrestrial and those down on earth, * and becoming human, has recovered us again. * For He is glorified. [SD]

Ode 1: Menaion: Canon-2

Iambic Canon.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 1.

Ἔσωσε λαόν.

Of old the Master who works wonders saved His people, ⁄ making the watery wave of the sea into dry land; ⁄ and now of His own will He has been born from a maiden: ⁄ He establishes a path for us to mount to heaven! ⁄⁄ We glorify Him: equal in essence to the Father and to mortal men. [OCA]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Plainly foreshadowed by the burning bush that was not consumed, ⁄ a hallowed womb has borne the Word. ⁄ God is mingled with the form of mortal men, ⁄ and so He looses the unhappy womb of Eve from the ancient, bitter curse. ⁄⁄ Therefore we glorify Him! [OCA]

Glory.

Both now.

A star showed plainly to the Magi ⁄ the Word that was before the sun, who has come to make transgression cease. ⁄ They saw You, wrapped in swaddling clothes, within a poor and lowly cave, ⁄ for You share all our sufferings. ⁄⁄ In joy they gazed upon You, who are at once both Man and Lord. [OCA]

Ode 1: Katavasia

Katavasias

Canon 1. Mode 1.

Iambic. Mode 1.

Working signs of old the Master saved the people, * replacing fluid waves of the sea with dry land. * Now born of a Maid by His own will, He has made * passable a way to heaven. Him, in essence * equal to mankind and the Father, we glorify. [GOASD]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode iii.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 1.

Τῷ πρὸ τῶν αἰώνων.

To the Son, begotten * without flux, of the Father, before the ages, * and who was lately made incarnate * of the Virgin without seed; * to Christ God now let us cry aloud: * You have exalted the horn of our strength. Only You are holy, O Lord. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Made of dust was Adam, * while enjoying superior insufflation. * But through seduction by the woman, * he slipped into corruption. * Gazing at Christ born of woman, he cries: * You who for me have become now like me, * only You are holy, O Lord. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Through participation * in inferior flesh, You, O Christ, did impart * divine nature. And conforming * to ignoble clay formation, * You were born human and remained God, * and have exalted the horn of our strength. * Only You are holy, O Lord. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Bethlehem, be merry, * as the Queen of the rulers of Judah; for lo, * Israel’s shepherd who is seated * on the Cherubim’s shoulders, * Christ who manifestly hails from you * and who exalted the horn of our strength, * has reigned as King over all. [SD]

Ode 3: Menaion: Canon-2

Iambic Canon.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 1.

Νεῦσον πρὸς ὕμνους.

Benefactor, graciously accept, the praises of Your servants ⁄ and bring down the spiteful, haughty looks of the enemy. ⁄ Blessed Lord, who see all: ⁄ Raise us up far above sin, ⁄⁄ and establish Your singers firm and unshaken upon the foundation of the faith. [OCA]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The choir of shepherds abiding in the fields ⁄ was overwhelmed by the strange sight they were accounted worthy to behold: ⁄ for they looked upon the all-blessed offspring of an all-pure Bride; ⁄ and they saw also the ranks of bodiless angels, ⁄⁄ who sang in praise of Christ the King, incarnate without seed. [OCA]

Glory.

Both now.

In His compassion, the One who rules the heights of heaven ⁄ has become as we are, born of a Maiden who has not known man. ⁄ The Word who before was wholly outside matter, ⁄ in these last times has assumed the material substance of the flesh ⁄⁄ so that He might draw to Himself fallen Adam, the first-formed man. [OCA]

Ode 3: Katavasia

Katavasias

Canon 1. Mode 1.

Iambic. Mode 1.

Hearken, Benefactor, to the hymns of Your servants, * and humble the arrogant contempt of the foe. * Carry us Your musicians, all-seeing Master, * high above all sin, immovably established * firmly on the Faith’s foundation, O Blessed One. [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

From Menaion - - -

READER

Hypakoe. Mode pl. 4.

Heaven called the Magi by a star, and thus it brought the first-fruits of the Gentiles to You, the infant lying in the manger. And they were amazed, not by scepters and thrones, but by the utter poverty. For what is more shabby than a cave? And what is more humble than swaddling clothes? But it was through these that the riches of your divinity shone forth. Lord, glory to You! [SD]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-1

From Menaion - - -

CHOIR

Ode iv.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Mode 1. Heirmos.

Ῥάβδος ἐκ τῆς ῥίζης.

Jesse’s root produced a branch, O Christ, * and You its flower blossomed forth, * from the Virgin who by Habakkuk prophetically once was called * overshadowed, dense mountain. * From her who knew not man You came incarnate, * the immaterial God. * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

O Christ, of whom Jacob once foretold, * the expectation of the nations, * from the tribe of Judah You arose and came to carry off * the power of Damascus and spoils of Samaria, * converting error into godly faith. * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

You rose out of Jacob as of old * the seer Balaam foretold. * And mystic scholars of his oracles, those stargazers from the east, * You, the Star, fulfilled with joy, * the first importation from the Gentiles, * O Master, whom You received * bearing You acceptable gifts. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Like rain on a fleece did You descend, * O Christ, into the virgin womb; * and like raindrops falling down to earth, so did Ethiopians, * and kings from Tarshish, the Isles of Arabia, * Sheba, Persia and all the earth, O Savior, fall down to You. * Glory to Your strength, O Lord! [SD]

Ode 4: Menaion: Canon-2

Iambic Canon.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 1.

Γένους βροτείου.

Of old, Habakkuk the prophet was counted worthy ⁄ to behold ineffably the figure and symbol of Christ’s birth, ⁄ and he foretold in song the renewal of mankind. ⁄ For a young Babe, even the Word, has now come forth from the mountain that is the Virgin, ⁄⁄ for the renewal of the peoples. [OCA]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Of Your own will, Most High, You have come forth equal to mortal men, ⁄ taking flesh from the Virgin, ⁄ to purge the poison of the serpent’s head. ⁄ God by nature, You lead all ⁄⁄ from the gates that know no sun to the life-giving light. [OCA]

Glory.

People that before were sunk in corruption, ⁄ but now have wholly escaped the perdition of the adversary, ⁄ lift up and clap your hands in songs of praise, ⁄ honoring Christ alone, our Benefactor, ⁄⁄ Who in His compassion is come into our midst. [OCA]

Both now.

Sprung from the stem of Jesse, Holy Virgin, ⁄ you have passed beyond the boundaries of human nature, ⁄ for you have borne the pre-eternal Word of the Father, ⁄ according to His good pleasure, by a strange self-emptying, ⁄⁄ He passed through your womb, yet kept it sealed. [OCA]

Ode 4: Katavasia

Katavasias

Canon 1. Mode 1.

Iambic. Mode 1.

Prophet Habakkuk in his ode was foretelling * mankind’s remaking, when of old he was granted * to see its type in a manner past expression: * From the Virgin mountain as a newborn infant * the Logos emerged, to refashion the peoples. [GOASD]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode v.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 1.

Θεὸς ὢν εἰρήνης.

God of peace and Father of mercies, Your Son * You have sent unto us as Your messenger, * the Angel of great counsel who is granting peace. * Therefore having been guided to the light of godly knowledge, * waking from the night to dawn, we sing Your glory, O benevolent Lord. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Submitting to Caesar Augustus’ decree, * You, O Christ, were enrolled among your own slaves, * and freed us from our slavery to the enemy and sin. * Assuming our entire impoverished earthen nature, * by this very union and communion You rendered it deified. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

As Prophet Isaiah of old said, behold, * has the Virgin conceived in the womb and borne * God in human form, and yet remains a virgin still. * In truth the Theotokos is she through whom we sinners * have been reconciled to God. Come, let us praise her faithfully. [SD]

Ode 5: Menaion: Canon-2

Iambic Canon.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 1.

Ἐκ νυκτὸς ἔργων.

From the night of deeds of dark error we watch in vigil, ⁄ singing to You, Christ, as to our benefactor. ⁄ Come to us and grant us cleansing: ⁄ Make easy the path for us ⁄ by which we may ascend and so attain to glory. [OCA]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The Master, by His coming in the flesh, ⁄has cut clean through the harsh enmity of the flesh against Him, ⁄ and has destroyed the might of the murderer of our souls. ⁄ Uniting the world to the immaterial essences, ⁄⁄ He has made the Father merciful to the creation. [OCA]

Glory.

Both now.

The people that walked before in darkness ⁄ today have seen a light from the beacon on high. ⁄ The Son offers to God the nations as His inheritance, ⁄ bestowing grace past telling ⁄⁄ where sin once flourished more abundantly. [OCA]

Ode 5: Katavasia

Katavasias

Canon 1. Mode 1.

Iambic. Mode 1.

Would that You come, O Christ, to us who once were darkened * by the night of works of error, but who offer * hymns to You wakefully now, O Benefactor. * Grant us forgiveness, and make easy the pathway. * Ascending this path may we also find glory. [GOASD]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode vi.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 1.

Σπλάγχνων Ἰωνᾶν.

Such as it received * Jonah as an embryo, the sea beast disgorged him from its bowels intact. * With the Virgin, though, when the Logos had dwelt in her taking on flesh, * He came forth from her preserving her yet incorrupt. * For from her no fluxion suffered He, * and He kept her unaltered in childbirth. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

He is come made flesh * Christ our God, whom from the womb before the morning star does God the Father beget. * He who rides upon the immaculate host of the heavenly minds * now is laid in a manger of irrationals. * He is wrapped in tattered swaddling clothes, * but He looses transgressions’ entangling bonds. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

For a child was born, * a Son, from Adam’s nature, and given unto those who believe in Him. * Of the age to come He is Father and Prince, and His name has been called * the Angel of Great Counsel. Mighty God is He; * wonderful Counselor, Prince of peace, * and He governs creation with authority. [SD]

Ode 6: Menaion: Canon-2

Iambic Canon.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 1.

Ναίων Ἰωνᾶς.

Enclosed in the farthest depths of the sea, ⁄ Jonah entreated You to come and still the storm. ⁄ And I, Christ, pricked by the dart of the tyrant, ⁄ call upon You, the slayer of evil, ⁄⁄ beseeching You to come quickly and deliver me from my slothfulness. [OCA]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

God the Word, who was in the beginning with God, ⁄ seeing our nature powerless to guard unharmed its ancient fellowship with Him, ⁄ now grants it a new strength: ⁄ abasing Himself, in a second act of fellowship ⁄⁄ He makes it once again free from the passions. [OCA]

Glory.

Both now.

For our sakes He has come forth from the loins of Abraham ⁄ to raise up as His sons those who were sadly fallen in the darkness of sin ⁄ that had bowed them down to the earth; ⁄ and He who dwells in light has now been pleased, despite His high dignity, ⁄⁄ to dwell in a manger for the salvation of mankind. [OCA]

Ode 6: Katavasia

Katavasias

Canon 1. Mode 1.

Iambic. Mode 1.

Jonah, as he sat in the sea’s deepest caverns, * implored to come to You and out of the tempest. * But as for me, by the tyrant’s arrows wounded, * I pray You, O Christ, the Destroyer of evil, * come to me quicker than my soul’s own indifference. [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 3. Automelon.

Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον.

On this day the Virgin gives * birth to the Super-essential. * To the Unapproachable, * earth is providing the grotto. * Angels sing and with the shepherds offer up glory. * Following a star the Magi are still proceeding. * He was born for our salvation, a newborn Child, the pre-eternal God. [SD]

Oikos.

Bethlehem has opened Eden. Come, let us see. We have found the hidden delight. Come, let us receive the things of Paradise inside the Cave. There, we shall see an unwatered root that blossomed forgiveness. There, we shall find an undug well, from which David of old desired to drink. There, the Virgin quenched the thirst of both Adam and David, when she gave birth to her baby. So let us go there now, where He was born a newborn Child, the pre-eternal God. [SD]

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On December 25 is the Nativity according to the flesh of our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ.

To Him be glory to the ages of ages. Amen.

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-1

CHOIR

From Menaion - - -

Ode vii.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

Heirmos. Mode 1.

Οἱ Παῖδες εὐσεβείᾳ.

The Servants nurtured piously together, * with contempt regarding the impious king’s decree, * intrepidly faced the threat of holocaust, * and while standing in the midst of flames they chanted thus, * saying: O God of the fathers, You are blessed. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The shepherds keeping watch over their flocks by night * witnessed an astonishing epiphany of light. * For the glory of the Lord surrounded them, * and an Angel shouted: Praise the Lord for Christ is born, * and say, O God of the fathers, You are blessed. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

And suddenly, with the Angel a multitude * of the host of heaven chanted, “Glory to God * in the highest heaven and upon the earth, * peace to all mankind by the eternal divine good will,” * and sang: “O God of the fathers, You are blessed.” [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

“What can this be?” the shepherds said in wonder. * “Let us go ourselves and witness this divine event.” * And coming to Bethlehem they worshipped Christ * along with her who gave Him birth, and they chanted with joy, * saying: “O God of the fathers, You are blessed.” [SD]

Ode 7: Menaion: Canon-2

Iambic Canon.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 1.

Τῷ παντάνακτος.

Caught and held fast by love for the King of all, ⁄ the children despised the impious threats of the tyrant in his boundless fury: ⁄ And as the terrible fire withdrew before them, ⁄ they said to the Master: ⁄⁄ Blessed are You throughout all the ages! [OCA]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The seething and roaring furnace, heated seven-fold, ⁄ burnt up the servants of the king in its fury, ⁄ while it spared the children. ⁄ For as the flame encircled them, ⁄ the Lord, rewarding their godliness, ⁄⁄ shed upon them abundant dew. [OCA]

Glory.

Using Your ineffable Incarnation as a shield, O Christ our Defender, ⁄ You have put mankind’s adversary to shame. ⁄ Taking mankind’s form, You grant him the joy of becoming divine: ⁄ For it was in this hope ⁄⁄ that we fell of old from on high into the dark depths of the earth. [OCA]

Both now.

By Your almighty power You have overthrown the fierce sin ⁄ that raising its head in wanton pride, ⁄ raged blasphemously in a world gone mad ⁄ and those whom in times past it dragged down, ⁄ You have delivered today from its snares, Benefactor, ⁄⁄ taking flesh of Your own will! [OCA]

Ode 7: Katavasia

Katavasias

Canon 1. Mode 1.

Iambic. Mode 1.

As the three young men were ensnared by the longing * for the King of all, hence they disdained the tyrant’s * impious chatter, though he was very angry. * The infinite fire yielded to them, who uttered, * Blessed are You, O Master, unto the ages. [GOASD]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-1

Ode viii.

Canon 1 of the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos. Mode 1.

Θαύματος ὑπερφυοῦς.

Babylon’s bedewing furnace bore the image * of an extraordinary wonder. * For it did not burn the youths it accepted, * nor did the fire of Divinity consume the Virgin’s womb wherein it went. * So let us melodiously chant in praise: * Let all creation bless and extol the Lord, * and let it exalt Him supremely to the ages. [SD]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

The daughter of Babylon drew into exile * David’s children as captives from Zion. * In return, she sends her own captivated * children, the three Magi bearing gifts, to court David’s Daughter bearing God. * So let us melodiously chant in praise: * Let all creation bless and extol the Lord, * and let it exalt Him supremely to the ages. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Lamentation once suspended organ of song; * for Zion’s children would not sing in strange lands. * Rising out of Bethlehem, Christ abolished * all the error of Babylon, her symphony of music as well. * So let us melodiously chant in praise: * Let all creation bless and extol the Lord, * and let it exalt Him supremely to the ages. [SD]

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Babylon captured the spoils of war and riches * from the Queen of the cities of Zion. * Now from Zion, Christ captivates her treasures, * namely her stargazing kings themselves, bedazzled by the bright guiding star. * So let us melodiously chant in praise: * Let all creation bless and extol the Lord, * and let it exalt Him supremely to the ages. [SD]

Ode 8: Menaion: Canon-2

Iambic Canon.

From Menaion - - -

Heirmos (not metered). Mode 1.

Μήτραν ἀφλέκτως.

The children of the old covenant who walked in the fire without being burned, ⁄ prefigured the womb of the maiden that remained sealed ⁄ when she gave birth in fashion past nature. ⁄ The same grace of God brought both these wonders to pass in a miracle ⁄⁄ raising up the nations to sing in praise. [OCA]

Troparia.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You.

Turning away from the guilt of its vain attempt to become as God, ⁄ the whole creation sings, like the three Children, ⁄ in praise of the eternal Word, who now empties Himself: ⁄ yet in trembling, fearing in its corruption to bring a prayer unacceptable to God, ⁄⁄ although the divine wisdom ever maintains it in being. [OCA]

Glory.

Both now.

You have come, Resurrection of the nations, ⁄ to bring back the wandering nature of mankind, ⁄ leading it from the hills of the wilderness to a pasture rich in flowers. ⁄ As in Your providence You have appeared as Man and God, ⁄⁄ destroy the violent strength of the murderer of mankind. [OCA]

Ode 8: Katavasia

Katavasias

Canon 1. Mode 1.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Iambic. Mode 1.

Standing in fire without burning, the young men * did of old portray thus the womb of the Maiden. * Remaining sealed, supernaturally it gave birth. * Grace with a single miracle-working power * did both, and rouses all the peoples to sing praise. [GOASD]

Kontakia and Synaxarion

From Menaion - - -

READER

Kontakion.

Mode 3. Automelon.

Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον.

Oikos.

Stand for the reading of the Synaxarion.

Synaxarion

From the Menaion.

On December 25 is the Nativity according to the flesh of our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ.

To Him be glory to the ages of ages. Amen.

Katavasias Odes 1-8

CHOIR

Katavasias of Christmas I and II

Ode i. Mode 1.

Iambic. Mode 1.

Ode iii.

Iambic.

Ode iv.

Iambic.

Ode v.

Iambic.

Ode vi.

Iambic.

Ode vii.

Iambic.

Ode viii.

We praise and we bless and we worship the Lord.

Iambic.

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.

Mode 1. Heirmos.

Μυστήριον ξένον.

O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honor and in glory than the armies of heaven.

I see here a strange and paradoxical mystery. * For, behold, the grotto is heaven; * cherubic throne is the Virgin; * the manger a grand space * in which Christ our God the uncontainable reclined as a babe; * Whom in extolling do we magnify. [SD]

Troparia.

O my soul, magnify God who was born in the flesh from a Virgin.

The wise men concluded from their observations of * the extraordinary path of the peculiar nova which had lately * appeared and was shining more brightly than anything in outer space, * that Christ the King was born on earth, in Bethlehem to save our souls. [SD]

O my soul, magnify the King who was born as an infant in the grotto.

When Magi came saying: “Where is the newly born * child King whose star has appeared? * For we have come to adore Him * with gold, myrrh and incense,” * then Herod, the enemy of God, was vexed, and madly incensed, * fuming he plotted how to murder Christ. [SD]

O my soul, magnify God who was worshiped by the Magi.

Herod ascertained the exact time the star appeared; * by the guidance of which the wise men * with gifts in Bethlehem worshipped Christ; * by Whom they were directed * to go to their country by another way, * abandoning that terrible, ridiculous infanticide. [SD]

Ode 9: Menaion: Canon-2

Iambic Canon.

From Menaion - - -

Iambic Canon.

Mode 1. Heirmos.

Στέργειν μὲν ἡμᾶς.

Today the holy Virgin gives birth to the Master within the cave and grotto.

Easier for us is from fear to love silence, * free of any peril as it is, O Virgin; * whereas to weave stirring hymns out of longing * in earnest, is difficult. Therefore, O Mother, * give us strength to match our volition, we pray you. [SD]

Today our Lord and Master is born as an infant; His Mother is a virgin.

Troparia.

Glory.

O my soul, magnify the power of the Godhead, that is three hypostases and also undivided.

We have clearly seen the obscure types and shadows * fulfilled; and the light of the truth we perceive now, * O pure Theotokos and Mother of the Logos * who lately came forth from the gate that had been closed. * Worthily we bless your womb, all-holy Virgin. [SD]

Both now.

O my soul, magnify the ever-virgin Maid who from the curse has redeemed us.

Having been granted the longed-for experience * of the Advent of God, the Christ-pleasing people * tearfully prays to see the regeneration, * the life-giving Baptism. All-pure and holy Virgin, * grant us the favor, to venerate that glory. [SD]

Ode 9: Katavasia

Katavasias

Canon 1. Mode 1.

O my soul, magnify her who is greater in honor and in glory than the armies of heaven.

Iambic. Mode 1.

O my soul, magnify the ever-virgin Maid who from the curse has redeemed us.

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 all the powers of heaven praise You, and to You they offer up glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages.

CHOIR: Amen.

CHOIR

Exaposteilarion.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 3. Automelon.

Ἐπεσκέψατο ἡμᾶς.

Our Savior from on high * the Orient from the East * visited us who in the dark * and shadow hitherto had lain; * now we have found the truth indeed. * And this is so because from the Virgin the Lord is born. [SD] (3)

Lauds. Mode 4.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stichera for the Feast.

From Menaion - - -

Idiomelon. Mode 4.

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

You righteous, be glad in heart; and the heavens, be exultant. Leap for joy, O mountains, at the birth of the Messiah. Resembling the Cherubim, the Virgin Maiden is seated and holds in her embraces God the Logos incarnate. The shepherds glorify the newborn Babe; Magi bring the Master their precious gifts. Angels are singing hymns of praise, and say, “O Lord incomprehensible, glory to You.” [SD]

Idiomelon. Mode 4.

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

The Father was well pleased; the Logos became flesh; and the Virgin gave birth to God who became man. A Star reveals Him; Magi bow in worship; Shepherds marvel, and creation rejoices. [SD]

Idiomelon. Mode 4.

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

O Virgin Theotokos who gave birth to the Savior, you reversed the curse to which Eve once was subject. For you have become the Mother of the Father’s good pleasure, and you hold in your embraces God the Logos incarnate. The mystery admits no inquiry; we all glorify it by faith alone, and with you we cry aloud and say, “O Lord incomprehensible, glory to You.” [SD]

Idiomelon. Mode 4.

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

Come, let us extol and praise the Savior’s Mother, who remained a virgin even after childbirth. Animate City of our King and God, rejoice, for Christ having dwelt in you has wrought our salvation. Together with Gabriel we sing your praise, together with the shepherds we glorify you, crying out, “Theotokos, intercede with the Lord, who is incarnate from you, to save us.” [SD]

Glory.

From Menaion - - -

Mode pl. 2.

When the time came for Your Advent on earth, the first census of the Roman world was conducted. Then it was that You began to record the names of those who would believe in Your birth. Such a decree was published by Caesar, because the timelessness of Your eternal kingdom was revealed anew. And now, we in our turn, above and beyond a monetary tax, bring to You the wealth of Orthodox theology, O God and Savior of our souls. [SD]

The [second] choir sings the following Idiomelon, up to the asterisk; then the first choir begins the Great Doxology, starting with the last verse of the Idiomelon: “Glory to God in the highest…”

Both now.

From Menaion - - -

Mode 2.

Today in Bethlehem, Christ is born of the Virgin. Today, the Unoriginate begins, and the Word becomes flesh. The hosts of heaven are rejoicing, and the earth and humanity are merry. The Magi bring their gifts. The Shepherds proclaim the marvel. And we unceasingly cry aloud: * “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” [SD]

Stand for the Great Doxology.

Great Doxology

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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)

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

( Amen. )

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

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

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

Dismissal

PRIEST

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

May He who was born in a cave and lay in a manger for our salvation, 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.