The form of prayer that we in the Orthodox Church call the Rule of the Mother of God finds its origins in the monastic life of the Egyptian desert, where some of the fathers prayed the angelic salutation to the Mother of God one hundred and fifty times, reflecting the one hundred and fifty psalms of the Psalter. This, of course, mirrors the western rosary in its original and complete form.
St Seraphim of Sarov encouraged his disciples to pray to the Mother of God following a simple version of the rule, having his spiritual children copy it, with each mystery followed by the prayer. When he died, his disciple, Zosima, found a book recording the miracles that the Mother of God granted those who prayed to her with this devotion.
St Seraphim instructed his spiritual daughters, the nuns of Diveyevo to keep this prayer rule, reciting it as they walked three times around the ‘canal’ that the Mother of God instructed to be dug around the monastery. For praying the rule they made, and continue to make, a special lestovka with 150 steps, and they continue this devotion in obedience to St Seraphim, and to do so they make a modified version of the traditional Russian leather lestovka (ladder), that is an alternative to prayer ropes and chotki, was used by St Seraphim to recite the Jesus prayer, as we see his icons.
The second St Seraphim connected with this prayer rule, the Bishop of Dmitrov and new-martyr came from a family of Orthodox Old Believers and his father wrote the liturgical service for the canonisation of St Seraphim of Sarov in 1903.
He prayed the Rule of the Mother of God every day adding prayers of intercession at the end of each decade,
Whilst St Seraphim of Sarov also prayed in a similar way, he did not reveal his prayers.
We very much hope that this can become the focus of group prayer in our communities, as it can be prayed by any number of people in an informal setting, without the need for clergy. We simply need an icon-corner, reverence and love for the Mother of God.
Богородице Дево, радуйся, благодатная Марие, Господь с Тобою, Благословенна Ты в женахъ и благословенъ Плодъ чрева Твоего, яко Спаса родила еси душъ нашихъ.
Rejoice, O Virgin Mother of God, Mary full of grace, the Lord is with thee! Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, for thou hast borne the Saviour of our souls.
Милосердия двери отверзи намъ, Благословенная Богородице, надеющиися на Тя, да не погибнемъ, но да избавимся Тобою от бедъ, Ты бо еси спасение рода христианскаго.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness, O most blessed Mother of God. As we set our hope in thee, let us not be confounded, but through thee may we be delivered from all adversities. For thou art the salvation of the Christian race.
Usual opening prayers with Psalm 50 and the creed, then…
First decade: Let us remember the birth of the Mother of God. Let us pray for mothers, fathers and children.
Our Father…
Rejoice, O Virgin Mother of God, Mary full of grace, the Lord is with thee! Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, for thou hast born the Saviour of our souls. (Богородице Дево, радуйся… x 10)
Troparion, Tone IV: Thy nativity, O Virgin Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to all the world; for from thee hath shone forth Christ our God, the Sun of righteousness, Who having annulled the curse, hath given His blessing, and having abolished death, hath granted us life everlasting.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness, O most blessed Mother of God. As we set our hope in thee, let us not be confounded, but through thee may we be delivered from all adversities, for thou art the salvation of the Christian race. (Милосердия двери отверзи намъ…)
O Most Holy Lady Theotokos, save and protect thy servants (names of parents and relatives), and to the departed grant rest with the saints in thine eternal glory.
Second decade: Let us remember the feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin and Mother of God. Let us pray for those who have lost their way and fallen away from the church.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone IV: Today is the prelude of God’s good will and the proclamation of the salvationof men. The Virgin hath manifestly appeared in the temple of God and proclaimeth Christ unto all. To her let us cry aloud: Rejoice, O thou fulfilment of the Creator’s dispensation!
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, save and protect and reunite (or join) to the Holy Orthodox Church thy servants (names) who are lost and have fallen away.
Third decade: Let us remember the Annunciation of the Blessed Mother of God – let us pray for the soothing of sorrows and the consolation of those who grieve.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10
Troparion, Tone IV: Today is the crown of our salvation, and the revelation of the mystery which is from before the ages! The Son of God becometh the Son of the Virgin, and Gabriel announceth the glad tidings of grace. Wherefore, with him let us cry out to the Theotokos: Rejoice, O thou who art full of grace! The Lord is with thee!
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, soothe our sorrows and send consolation to thy servants (names) who are grieving or sick.
Fourth decade: Let us remember the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin with the righteous Elizabeth. Let us pray for the reunion of the separated, for those whose dear ones or children are living away from them or missing.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
It is truly meet to bless thee, O Theotokos, ever-blessed and most immaculate, and the Mother of God. More honourable than the cherubim, and truly more glorious than the seraphim; who without corruption gavest birth to God the Word; the true Theotokos, thee do we magnify.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, unite Thy servants (names) who have been separated.
Fifth decade: Let us remember the Birth of Christ. Let us pray for the rebirth of souls, for new life in Christ.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone IV: Thy nativity, O Christ our God, hath shone forth the light of knowledge upon the world; for therein those who worship the stars have been taught by a star to worship Thee, the Sun of righteousness, and to know Thee the Orient from on high. O Lord, glory be to Thee!
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, grant me, who was baptized into Christ, to put on Christ.
Sixth decade: Let us remember the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, and the words uttered by St. Simeon: Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also (Luke 2:35). Let us pray that the Mother of God will meet our souls at the hour of our death, and will contrive that we receive the Holy Mysteries with our last breath, and will lead our souls through the terrible torments.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone I: Rejoice, O Virgin Theotokos full of grace, for from thee hath shone forth the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God, enlightening them that are in darkness. Be glad thou also, O righteous elder, who receivest in thine arms the Deliverer of our souls,Who granteth us Resurrection.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, grant me with my last breath to partake of the Holy Mysteries of Christ and do thou thyself lead my soul through the terrible ordeals [of the toll-houses].
Seventh decade: Let us remember the flight of the Mother of God with the God-Child into Egypt. Let us pray that the Mother of God will help us avoid temptation in this life and deliver us from misfortunes.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Kontakion, Tone VIII: To thee, the Champion Leader, we, thy servants, dedicate a feast of victory and of thanksgiving, as ones rescued out of sufferings, O Theotokos; but as thou art one with might which is invincible, from all dangers that can be do thou deliver us, that we may cry to thee: Rejoice, thou Bride unwedded!
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, let me not be led into temptation in this life and deliver me from all misfortunes.
Eighth decade: Let us remember the disappearance of the twelve-year old boy Jesus in Jerusalem and the sorrow of the Mother of God on this account. Let us pray, begging the Mother of God on this account.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone 7: Receive me who sighest, O Lord, since Thou art merciful, and have mercy on me as the publican, through the intercession of Thy Mother.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, Most-Pure Virgin Mary, grant me to pray unceasingly the Jesus Prayer.
Ninth decade: Let us remember the miracle performed in Cana of Galilee, when the Lord turned water into wine at the words of the Mother of God: They have no wine (John 2:3). Let us ask the Mother of God for help in our affairs and deliverance from need.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone 3: Overwhelmed in the abyss of life, we have a haven of salvation in thee, O Mother of God. Do thou save from all trouble those who flee to thy goodness.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, help me in every enterprise and deliver me from all needs and sorrows.
Tenth decade: Let us remember the Mother of God standing at the Cross of the Lord, when grief pierced through her heart like a sword. Let us pray to the Mother of God for the strengthening of our souls and the banishment of despondency
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone 6: Weep not for me, O Mother, seeing in the tomb the Son conceived in the womb without seed, for I shall arise and be glorified: as God I shall exalt with glory-unceasing those who with faith and love magnify thee.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, Blessed Virgin Mary, strengthen my spiritual fortitude and drive despondency far from me.
Eleventh decade: Let us remember the Resurrection of Christ and ask the Mother of God in prayer to resurrect our souls and give us a new courage for spiritual feats.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Tone V: Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, resurrect my soul and grant me constant readiness for spiritual contest [podvig].
Twelfth decade: Let us remember the Ascension of Christ, at which the Mother of God was present. Let us pray and ask the Queen of Heaven to raise up our souls from earthly and worldly amusements and direct them to striving for higher things.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone IV: Thou didst ascend into glory, O Christ our God, having gladdened Thy disciples by the promise of the Holy Spirit. And this blessing convinced them that Thou art the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, deliver me from vain thoughts and grant me a mind and a heart that strives for the salvation of the soul.
Thirteenth decade: Let us remember the Upper Room and the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and the Mother of God. Let us pray: Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me (Psalm 50).
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone VIII: Blessed art Thou, Christ our God, Who didst make the fishermen wise by sending down upon them the Holy Spirit, and through them didst draw the world into Thy net. O Lover of mankind, glory to Thee.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, send down into my heart and strengthen within it the grace of the Holy Spirit.
Fourteenth decade: Let us remember the Dormition of the Blessed Mother of God, and ask for a peaceful and serene end.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone I: In giving birth thou didst preserve thy virginity, and in thy falling asleep thou hast not forsaken the world, O Theotokos. Thou hast been, translated to life, as thou art the Mother of Life. And by thy supplications thou dost deliver our souls from death.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, grant me a peaceful and serene ending to my life.
Fifteenth decade: Let us remember the glory of the Mother of God, with which the Lord crowned her after her removal from earth to heaven. Let us pray to the Queen of Heaven not to abandon the faithful who are on earth but to defend them from every evil, covering them with her honourable Protecting Veil.
The Lord’s Prayer; ‘Rejoice O Mother of God’ (Богородице Дево, радуйся) x 10.
Troparion, Tone IV: Overshadowed by thy coming, O Mother of God, we the right faithful people, celebrate today with splendour, and gazing at thine all-precious image, we say with compunction: Cover us with thy precious omophorion, and deliver us from all evil, entreating thy Son, Christ our God, that He save our souls.
Open unto us the doors of thy loving-kindness…
O Most-Holy Lady Theotokos, save me from all evil and cover me with Thy Most-Honourable Omophorion.
We magnify thee, O all-holy Virgin, divinely elect Maiden, and we honour thy holy image, whereby thou pourest forth healings upon all who have recourse to it.
What a momentous few days it has been, with the great blessing of the Hawaiian-Iveron myrrh-streaming icon of the Mother of God to Cardiff and Chippenham: days of much travelling and little sleep, but immeasurable joy for those involved.
The icon’s late arrival in Cardiff was due to the throngs of the faithful – four hundred people or more – who flocked to Lazarica, to pray and venerate the Icon in Bournville.
Though the lateness in Cardiff was a challenge, knowing that so many had been able to gather to honour the Mother of God in St Lazar’s was a great joy. We pray for the blessing and grace of the Mother of God to pour forth upon Father Nenad, the Serbian Orthodox parish faithful, and the constant flow of pilgrims who make their way to Lazarica to venerate the Hilandarska-Trojerucica Icon.
The Icon did not arrive in Cardiff until 19:30, and in the vastness of the Oratory Church, it was difficult to ascertain the numbers of pilgrims until the veneration, when we realised that there were several hundred faithful gathered to pray and receive the blessing of the Mother of God. We were pleased to have Father Sorin with us, and to welcome Father Youhanis, the Coptic priest from Risca.
It was lovely to see that the Mother of God was greeted and honoured with so many flowers, and their remaining presence in the Oratory Church now is a testimony to the love of the faithful for the Theotokos.
Though the myrrh was less abundant than the following morning, people commented that it could be smelled in the street outside and the environs of the Oratory Church. I look forward to the offering of the “Rule of the Mother of God” / «Богородичное правило» in St Alban’s this afternoon, as a sort of “after-feast” for the icon’s visit.
Wednesday started with the Icon visiting our senior sister’s house, where the clergy had breakfast, before a brief visit to Chippenham, and during the course of the meal the Icon streanmed much myrrh, which soaked the cloth beneath it, so that we were able to soak it up with our prayer ropes and lots of cotton wool. The fragrance greeted us, when we finally arrived back in Cardiff and sat down for supper in the late evening.
It was a short, but welcome visit that brought the blessing of the Mother of God to Chippenham, where Father Nectarios chanted a moleben, before the faithful venerated the icon and were anointed with myrrh.
We were blessed to have a group of young people with us, and after the departure of the icon, the day was treated as a feast day with a meal and afternoon of conversation. I was pleased to hear that after we departed, the day continued in Chippenham with the chanting of the akathist.Immense thanks to those who chanted, served, cooked, cleaned brought vast amounts of flowers and submitted names for commemoration, which we will continue to commemorate the names submitted in prayers to the Mother of God this week, and to all who came to honour the Mother of God.
Our gratitude must especially be directed to the Oratorians, especially to Brother Francis Xavier, who stayed up very late, as we did not lock up and leave St Alban’s until after midnight. May the blessing of the Mother of God give him and his brethren strength.
Our hope and prayer is that the visit of the icon of the Mother of God will bring strength, help and consolation to all who came to honour the Queen of Heaven, and that whether their prayers are answered or not, their Faith is fortified and love for her increased!
O most glorious Lady, Queen of heaven and earth, Virgin Theotokos! Falling down now before thy precious icon, with compunction in our hearts we give voice to this, our meager entreaty; for we are unprofitable servants who deserve condemnation, yet hope to find mercy through thine almighty mediation before the Judge. We believe and trust, O Mistress, that thy Son, Who desireth not death of sinners, will hearken to thy mediation, and have now been informed of this by the wondrous sign of myrrh streaming from thy holy icon, from whence thou hast poured forth healings in abundance upon all who with love and faith have recourse unto thee. Wherefore, we cry out to thee with tears: Have pity on our wretchedness, forgive us our unfaithfulness, break thou the arrogance of our pride, dispel the numbness of our hardened hearts, regard the sighing of those beset by despondency, and make us chaste by the expectation of future reward. And grant, O Lady, that our Church may stand unshakably in the Truth and a goodly increase in love. Protect us from all the wiles of the demons and the vain beliefs of the heretics, and gather the scattered faithful together, that all who glorify thee in Orthodox manner on earth may also be vouchsafed to glorify with song in the heavens the most worshipful name of the Holy Trinity and thy merciful aid to us, unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Many thanks to all who contributed to yesterday’s parish celebration of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God, following Monday’s celebration of the feast on its proper date.
It was lovely to celebrate the feast in the Oratory on Monday, even though most people were unable to be with us, hence Sunday’s continuing parish celebration, with a longer chance to spend time together after Liturgy.
It was lovely to have Father Mark, Alla and Yuriy back, with Father’s presence freeing me to help on the kliros.
We look forward to our Marian celebrations continuing with tomorrow’s arrival of the Wonderworking Hawaiian-Iveron Icon of the Mother of God in Cardiff, after a parish visit to Pontypool.
Whilst understanding the unpredictability of evening traffic, we will be ready to greet the icon at 18:30 at the doors of the Oratory Church, Swinton St, Cardiff CF24 2NT.
We will the chant the moleben to the Mother of God, and you are invited to submit names for commemoration by the clergy throughout the service, and it would be helpful for you to prepare clearly written or printed lists in advance. Please let us know the names of the Orthodox sick, for Hierodeacon Avraamy to commemorate in the litanies.
There will be a collection basket for the Hawaiian Icon Association next to the icon, and we ask the faithful to be generous in their support for the grace-filled visits of the icon throughout the world.
You are also invited to remember the Oratory Church in your giving, being mindful that this event is not isolated, but indicative of the hospitality that the Oratorians show to the Orthodox faithful week after week, as we gather to pray and serve in St Alban’s, surrounded by such warmth, generosity and kindness.
On its eastward progress, the Wonderworking Icon will stop to Chippenham on Wednesday morning, making a station there for a moleben and veneration at Masha’s home around 10:30.
It was only yesterday that the parishioners of St John’s were informed that we will be leaving, and this was a cause of sadness for some of them, and emotional upset for one parishioner (who has been very supportive of our presence), who was comforted and reassured by Father Mark the Younger. We are very grateful for the immense warmth and kindness that has been shown by rank and file parishioners. It is unfortunate that the explanation for our departure hides behind “orders from above” and seeks to absolve and exonerate the West Cardiff Ministry team of any responsibility for their actions, and of the fact that our move back was with the support and encouragement of their lead minister, whose judgment and authority were trusted, to our cost and disadvantage. Our thoughts are with those who have been so kind and generous to us.
Our parish committee is waiting to hopefully view a property owned by the now defunct Free Serbian Orthodox parish. Due to charity regulation, this property, in Ely will go to auction, but we are very interested to see it. We know there are structural issues, and need to ascertain the degree to which this affects the building and its use. Several other possible buildings are being explored for hire.
We must pray fervently for our parish and its future, and increase our prayers, so that our present trials bring us closer to God: tomorrow being a prime opportunity to pray together.
As we have said on WhatsApp, some of our sisters are offering prayers to the Mother of God every evening at 20:00, praying the much loved prayer –
Цари́це моя́ Преблага́я, Наде́ждо моя́, Богоро́дице, Прия́телище си́рых и стра́нных Предста́тельнице, скорбя́щих Ра́досте, оби́димых Покрови́тельнице! Зри́ши мою́ беду́, зри́ши мою́ скорбь; помози́ ми, я́ко не́мощну, окорми́ мя, я́ко стра́нна! Оби́ду мою́ ве́си, разреши́ ту, я́ко во́лиши: яко не и́мам ины́я по́мощи, ра́зве Тебе́, ни ины́я Предста́тельницы, ни благи́я Уте́шительницы, то́кмо Тебе́, о Богома́ти! Я́ко да сохрани́ши мя и покры́еши во ве́ки веко́в. Ами́нь.
O my most blessed Queen, O Theotokos my hope, guardian of orphans, intercessor for strangers, joy of the sorrowful, protectress of the wronged: Thou seest my misfortune, thou seest mine affliction; help me, for I am weak; feed me, for I am a stranger. Thou knowest mine offence: Absolve it as thou wilt, for I have no other help beside thee, no other intercessor, nor good consoler, except thee, O Mother of God. Do thou preserve and protect me unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Please consider joining them, or joining your voice in offering prayers to the Mother of God, in honour of her Kursk Root Icon, or to St John the Wonderworker. In addition to the akathists available online, I posted an English language canon to St John earlier today:
After the icon visits, Thursday will see a service at 15:00 in the Oratory Church, and I will then hear confessions either side of the service, as well as hearing evening confessions in Nazareth House.
Saturday will see the clergy fulfil their monthly obedience in serving the Liturgy in Cheltenham, and the faithful there would very much like to welcome Cardiff parishioners. Given that virtually none of them drive, they are rather cut off and isolated, but always keenly ask about the Cardiff faithful that have supported them over the years.
This month’s quite simple pilgrimage will see us visit the ancient Christian sites of St Cadoc’s and Merthyr Dyfan in Barry, and I would appreciate an indication of who will be able to attend to help decide what services will be celebrated. Please let me know as soon as possible.
May I ask your prayers for the newly departed Nikola, and for the Sesević family, as arrangements are made for Nikola’s funeral in Newport, next week.
Some of our parishioners, who are praying the akathist to St John the Wonderworker for the intention of our parish, after the news of its eviction from St John’s by the (Anglican) Local Ministry Team, have asked for a canon to pray to the great wonderworker, for his help.
The following canon was published by our late Bishop Alexander of Buenos Aires, and, I believe, is the one written by Father Seraphim (Rose) of Platina.
A Canon to St John the Wonderworker Tone 2, the Acrostic wherewith is: Holy John, Wonderworker of the latter times.
Ode I, Irmos: Having traversed the depths of the Red Sea with dry-shod feet, Israel of old vanquished the might of Amalek in the wilderness by Moses’ arms stretched out in the form of the Cross.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Help me, O Christ my Lord, to praise with purity of heart Thy blessed servant John, whose life of unceasing labour and prayer Thou hast revealed to us as both a reproof and a source of inspiration for our feeble faith.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
O Hierarch John, Thou art a lamp that shineth forth out of the dark apostasy of our evil times, beckoning us to follow Thee out of the nether chaos of our passions and to abide with Thee in Christ the Light that dieth not.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Love for the all-wise and all-compassionate God, the simple Unity in Trinity, did give Thee both the divine wisdom of the great Elders of ancient times and the simple guilelessness of a child, O blessed John, enabling Thee to touch countless souls with the grace bestowed upon Thee.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Young, defenceless orphans flock to Thee, the old and infirm beg consolation from Thee, and all we who have fallen into sin seek the healing balm of Thy heavenly intercession. Holy Hierarch John, saint and wonderworker in our midst, pray for us.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
John Thou didst behold prostrated before Thy sacred images, praying alone in the deep hours of the night warring with sleep and keeping constant vigilance over his soul. O blessed Mother of God, warm our hearts that we too may pour out such ardent love for Thee.
Ode III, Irmos: By establishing me on the rock of faith, Thou hast enlarged my mouth over my enemies, and my spirit rejoiceth when I sing: there is none holy as our God, and none righteous beside Thee, O Lord.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
O blessed one, Thou didst have as Thy ancestor a saint, whose name Thou wast given as a monk. Truly did his spirit rest upon Thee, for Thou didst become, like the great John of Tobolsk, a holy hierarch, a zealous missionary to foreign lands, and a miracle-worker even after Thy repose.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Having the heavenly saints as Thy instructors, Thou wast as a child taught the life of ascetic struggle and unconquerable faith in Christ. Preferring this learning above all other, Thou didst become an earnest student of Orthodox sanctity.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Never ceasing to nourish Thy soul with the Lives of Saints, Thou didst carefully study their every thought, word and action, thereby perceiving their otherworldly mind and spirit and acquiring these for thyself: for indeed Thou didst become like Thy instructors, a saint by whom God is glorified.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
When a child in Kharkov, the blessed John devoutly prayed before Thine Ilyetskaya icon. O Sovereign Lady, cleanse our unclean hearts and grant us such childlike faith.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Sessional Hymn, Tone 2: Who can fathom the mysterious ways of sanctity? Who can perceive the celestial beauty of Thy life enshrouded in the garments of humility? Thou, O John. wast illumined by the Light that came into the world, and the world knew it not. (Twice).
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Queen of Heaven, Thou abidest now with all the saints whom Thou didst strengthen and console during their sojourn on earth. And behold! A new saint is among them, the righteous John, praising Christ with Thee forever.
Ode IV, Irmos: From a Virgin didst Thou come, not as an ambassador nor as an angel, but the very Lord Himself incarnate, and didst save me, the whole man. Wherefore I cry to Thee: Glory to Thy power, O Lord.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Oholy Hierarch, Thou wast sent as a shepherd at Christ’s flock to Shanghai, where Thou didst become known as a wonderworker and healer of diseases, a great ascetic who gavest no repose or comfort to the temple of Thy body, but rather sanctified it through the constant work of prayer.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Neglecting no opportunity of helping those in need, Thou didst boldly walk through the slums and dark alleys of Shanghai, gathering sick and starving orphans and providing them with Thy fatherly protection. Do Thou take us, too, under Thy care.
Deliverer of the oppressed, Thou didst see no separation between Thy good works and Thy constant prayers, for in both didst Thou serve God and raise people from the mire of suffering.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Ever following the injunctions of Christ, Thou didst feed Him when He was hungry, take Him in when He was homeless, clothe Him when He was naked, visit Him when He was sick and in prison: for in everyone didst Thou see His divine image.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Receive our prayers, O Mother of God, as Thou didst once receive the prayers of the blessed John while he served in the Shanghai Cathedral dedicated to Thee, the Surety of Sinners, and besought Thee to save those languishing in sin and Sorrow.
Ode V, Irmos: Thou Who art the light of those lying in darkness, and the salvation of the hopeless, O Christ my Saviour, I rise early to pray to Thee, O King of peace, Enlighten me with Thy radiance, for I know no other God beside Thee.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
When Thou didst bring Thy flock to the Philippine Islands, O Hierarch John, Thou didst show thyself to be a new Moses, leading Thy people out of bondage and always trusting in the protection of the merciful God.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
O protector of those in danger and tribulation, through Thy holy prayers Thou didst deliver Thy flock on the island from certain destruction, averting the violent typhoons even as Thy Master Christ calmed the stormy waters of Galilee.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Revealing from East to West, from the remote corners of the world, the glory with which God doth endow His saints, Thou didst allow no earthly distance to hinder Thy heavenly ministry. Even now, from where space is effortlessly traversed by the angelic powers, come to our aid and bring our petitions before the Lord.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Keeping vigil on a remote island, the blessed John prayed before Thy wondrously renewed icon. O Thou Who art the Quencher of Sorrow and the relief of affliction, we run to Thy motherly protection and tell the burdens of our hearts.
Ode VI, Irmos: Whirled about in the abyss of sin, I appeal to the unfathomable abyss of Thy compassion: from corruption raise me up, O God.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Endeavouring to find refuge for Thy flock, who had no secure place whereon to lay their heads, Thou didst bring them under Thy mantle to the New World. Let us likewise find refuge in Thy prayers.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Reaching then the land wherein the ancient ascetics of Gaul attained to holiness, Thou didst once more grace it with the presence of a saint, returning the French people to the Orthodox and apostolic faith, and tirelessly labouring to ground them on the firm Rock of salvation.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Of all the saints, both of East and West, wast Thou an ardent disciple, O holy Hierarch; wherefore, in Thy travels Thou didst learn of the saints of different lands, introducing the faithful to yet more residents of the heavenly mansions, with whom Thou art now glorified.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Foretelling future events, seeing mystically within the hearts of men, hearing prayers and thoughts across great distances, Thou wast shown to be in the presence of the realm beyond earthly limitations, amazing all who had eyes to see and moving them to greater faith and devotion.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Thou gavest birth to Him who gave me life, O Most Pure Virgin. Let me not squander this gift by desiring that which endeth in death, but like our blessed John let me seek that fountain which springeth up into everlasting life, Thy Son Christ our God.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Kontakion, Tone VIII: Chosen Wonderworker and superb servant of Christ, who pourest out in the latter times, inexhaustible streams of inspiration and multitudes of miracles. We pray thee with love and call out to thee, O holy hierarch John, Wonderworker of the latter times.
Ode VII, Irmos: When the golden image was worshipped in the plain of Dura, Thy three children despised the godless order, thrown into the fire they were bedewed and sang: Blessed art Thou, O God of our fathers.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Having purified thyself in Thy work of prayer, O holy one, Thou wast deemed worthy to behold the ineffable light that cometh directly from God. Surrounded by the uncreated essence of Divinity, Thou wast lifted above the earth, knowing the bliss of wordless prayer, of the silence of the future age.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Elder in the tradition of the desert saints of Thy native Russia. seer of the heart and well-spring of God-revealed counsel, Thou wast sent at a time when men of Thy stature had disappeared from the face of the earth. In Thee we see precious gift from God and thus do honour Thy words of wisdom.
Leaving behind the vain wisdom of this world, Thou didst choose the foolishness of God which is wiser than men, and thus wast Thou chosen of Him to confound the prudent and mighty, bringing to naught their carnal understanding. Marvelling at His ways past speech, we cry out: Blessed art Thou, O God of our fathers.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Awe and wonder are born in us as we behold Thy life, O blessed one, for Thou wast both a wise teacher of theology and a Fool for Christ’s sake, a hierarch and a humble servant of the poor. Thou was a compassionate friend of all, yet was alone with God in the secret chambers of Thy spirit.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
The blessed John did always wear Thy Optina icon upon his heart, O Most Holy Virgin: likewise let us always remember Thee in the tabernacles of our hearts, for Thou art the sacred Tabernacle which did wondrously bear God.
Ode VIII, Irmos: O ye work, praise the Lord God, Who descended into the fiery furnace with the Hebrew children and changed the flame into dew, and supremely exalt Him unto all ages.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Thy flock of Shanghai rejoiced at they return to them in America, where Thou didst end Thy days as an unrelenting champion of Orthodoxy, experiencing sorrows from those who despised Thee for Thy holy life, yet meeting Thy false accusers with the meekness made invincible through Christ.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Even as Thy great ascetic preceptors did teach Thee, Thou didst know the love of God as suffering of heart endured in the spirit of devotion, and didst call out in Thine hour of trial: O ye works, praise the Lord God, and supremely exalt Him unto all ages.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Rare are those who can go on the narrow and rugged path that Thou hast trod. O saint, for in Thy sorrows Thou didst with courage place Thy trust only in God, being tested like gold in the forge and thereby entering the celestial habitations purified in spirit.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
To Thee, O Joy of All Who Sorrow, the ever-present recourse of the blessed John in his tribulations, we cry with faith: grant us that spiritual joy which is undiminished in adversity.
Ode IX, Irmos: God the Word, Who came forth from god, and who by ineffable wisdom came to renew Adam after his grievous fall to corruption through eating, and who ineffably took flesh from the holy virgin for our sake, him do we the faithful with one accord magnify with hymns.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
In a divine manner was Thy soul’s departure known beforehand to Thee, and Thou didst prepare to meet the mystical Bridegroom, Christ, to Whom Thou dost not cease to pray for us sinners.
Holy Hierarch John, pray to God for us.
Marvelling at the death of a newly manifested saint, Thy flock did find their sorrow turned to gladness, feeling the victorious joy of Pascha and glorifying God for giving them a new intercessor in heaven.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Even after Thy blessed repose Thou dost grant instruction, healing and consolation to all who come to Thee, O blessed John. As Thou dost now give miraculous help to the blind, sick and sorrowing, so also pour the healing balm of Thy prayers on us who bear the wounds of sin.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Silently praying before the Kursk Icon of God’s Mother, the new apostle John departed from earth to paradise. And let us, knowing not the hour of the end of our sojourn here, offer such heartfelt devotion to Her who reigns with the King of glory.
Troparion, Tone VI: Glorious apostle to an age of coldness and unbelief, invested with the grace-filled power of the saints of old, divinely-illumined seer of heavenly mysteries, feeder of orphans, hope of the hopeless, Thou didst enkindle on earth the fire of love for Christ upon the dark eve of the day of judgment; pray now that this sacred flame may also rise from our hearts.
St. Alfred (born 849) was King of Wessex from 886 until his death on October 26 899. He was the fifth son of his father, Æthelwulf, and never expected to become king. He loved learning and loved the Lord Jesus Christ, and most likely looked forward to a life of contemplation in the Church. Such was not to be his fate.
He was thrust into kingship at the age of 22, during a time of near-constant serious threat from the heathen Viking Danes. Through much hardship and wise preparation, he defeated Guthrum the Dane in a decisive battle, ending the Viking threat for many years. As a term of the surrender, Guthrum received Holy Baptism as Æthelstan, along with 30 of his jarls (Danish noblemen), with Alfred himself standing as godfather to Guthrum and his men. This is an example of the justice and mercy of the saint, as he showed care for the souls of not only his own people, but his former enemies.
When he was finally able to rule in peace, he began a program of education, requiring that all of his Thegns and Aldermen (nobility) learn to read and write, and that all freemen of England teach their sons the same. He personally translated Boethius’ “Consolation of Philosophy” and St. Gregory’s “On Pastoral Care,” among many other books, and had them propagated throughout his land, spreading the light of holy knowledge to all his people.
The Canon of the Saint, Tone VIII
Feast Day: November 8, 2024 / October 26
Ode I, Irmos: Having crossed the water as though it were dry land and escaped the evil of Egypt, the Israelite cried aloud: Let us sing unto our Deliverer and God!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
O Thou, the King of heaven, through the entreaties of Thy favourite Alfred, Who sought wisdom and truth from his youth up and took consolation in psalms and prayers, free my lowly soul from sin.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
As one who loved the kingdom on high, O great Alfred the Wise, England’s Shepherd and England’s Darling, believing with a pure mind and loving God’s saints, thou dost worship and preach the King and Master of all.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Illumined by the divine light, O righteous Alfred, thou knewest that true nobility is in the mind and so rebuilt a House of Wisdom, most sincerely entrusting thyself to the King of the ages and teaching thy people the commandments of Christ.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Sovereign Lady, thou portal of the divine Dayspring, open to me the door of repentance and by thine intercession deliver me from the gates of deadly sin.
Ode III, Irmos: O Lord, Shaper of the vault of heaven and Creator of the Church: establish me in Thy love, O Summit of desire, confirmation of the faithful, Who alone lovest mankind.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Striving to receive heavenly rewards, O right-believing Alfred, thou hast followed Him Who called thee, in no wise being tempted by the demon darkness of the heathen, but becoming a beacon of light unto them through the divine Spirit.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Having cleaved unto Christ and set all thy hope on Him, thou, O wise King, hast shown that true greatness is in forgiveness, thus attaining the heavenly kingdom, granted unto us by the All-good God through His all-pure sufferings.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Burning with faith, O blessed one, thou hast shown forth the Wisdom of God by bearing thy cross, the weapon of salvation, the invincible victory, the hope of all Christians and ever the glory of thy land.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Having fallen from heavenly citizenship, O all- pure one, I have become like unto a wild beast and am wholly condemned, O thou who gavest birth to the Judge, save me from all condemnation.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Sessional hymn of the saint, Tone VIII: Having yearned for the kingdom of heaven and beheld its beauty in creation, thou wast taught the mysteries of the Lord of all. The Cross shone forth in thy midst, signifying that thou shouldst conquer therein. Therefore, the eyes of thy soul opened, O wise Alfred, beseech Christ our God that He may grant remission of sins to those who with love celebrate thy holy memory. Twice
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Theotokion: Having conceived the Wisdom and Word in thy womb not being consumed, thou, O Mother of God, gavest birth for the world to Him Who sustains the world, and didst bear in thine arms Him Who upholds all things, the Creator of all. Therefore, O most holy Virgin, I beseech thee and glorify thee with faith, that I may be delivered from transgressions and on the day of judgement, when I stand before the face of my Maker, grant me thine aid, O pure Virgin and Sovereign Lady.
Ode IV, Irmos: O Lord, I have heard of the mystery of Thy providence; I have understood Thy works and glorified Thy Divinity.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Christ the Lord granted thee holy baptism and instructed thee from childhood through thy noble and godly parents, teaching thee, O wise Alfred, to worship Him as the only King, so preparing thee for kingship both on earth and in heaven.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Christ the Sun of Righteousness enlightened thee, O righteous Alfred, with His most bright grace, revealing thee, together with thy companion the holy King Edmund, as a valiant warrior and beacon of light to the benighted heathen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Thou, O blessed one, wast God-loving in nature and right wondrous in thy divine works, therefore this little island has brought forth a great man, a new David who overcame a new Goliath, and thee do we glorify with faith.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Ever-virgin who gavest birth to the Sun of righteousness, enlighten my soul which has been darkened by sin.
Ode V, Irmos: Waking at dawn, we cry unto Thee: Save us, O Lord! For Thou art our God, and we know none other than Thee.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Having risen at dawn to the never-waning Sun and Master, O learned Alfred, thou wast filled with light, keeping fast and feast, preaching the faith and restoring the Church, and so wisdom has taken the place of the sword.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Arrayed in love and justice as a robe of royal purple, thou becamest a law-giver like unto Moses, teaching the commandments of Christ and establishing His word as law in the King’s English, and now thou hast gone to dwell in the kingdom on high.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
O Alfred, unshakeable pillar of the English Church and people, thou hast joined the choirs of the saints, having trampled down Odin and all his demons underfoot, pleasing the White Christ by thy virtuous works and words.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Cleanse my soul, which has been defiled by fleshly pleasures through the treachery of the serpent, O Virgin.
Ode VI, Irmos: I pour forth my prayer unto the Lord and to Him I declare my sorrow; for my soul is full of evil and my life has drawn nigh unto hell, and like Jonah I pray unto Thee: Lead me up from corruption, O God!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Thou didst gather the faithful remnants of the Church together, O righteous Alfred, and through them didst calm the storm-tossed hearts of all and return them to the fold together with the newly baptised, glorifying the Word and Wisdom of God; so gather us together in these latter times anew.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Having believed in the White Christ Who grants life to all, thou, O wise Alfred, didst make the heathen to spurn the worship of Odin and receive the kingdom of heaven with joy; so help us in these latter times to trample down the old demons anew.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Guided by Thy hand, O Word, through Thee the King brought the heathen to cast aside the deepest darkness of ignorance and the tempest of cruel godlessness, and come unto the calm havens of piety with joy; so in these latter times bring us unto the calm havens of piety with joy anew.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O holy Maiden, heal my heart, which has fallen sick, grievously wounded by the sting of the evil one, and by thine entreaties vouchsafe healing unto me and save me who trust in thee, O all-pure one.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Kontakion of the saint, Tone II: Today the wise Alfred glorifies the White Christ among his faithful people and so builds a House of Wisdom. Therein he puts to shame all the heathen, showing the Cross to be the greatest weapon of kings against all enemies. Pray for us, O righteous one, and build a House of Wisdom among us today that there we may glorify the White Christ anew. For this great battle standard has appeared for our sakes and for our salvation.
Ikos: Today let us honour the great Alfred, for, hearing the words of David, he recognised the three parts of the Cross in the cedar, the pine and the cypress, in which the suffering of the Saviour was accomplished. And, victorious, he set it before all the heathen, that they might bend their necks before the Son of God, accepting illumination from the Church of God. For this great battle standard has appeared for our sakes and for our salvation.
Ode VII, Irmos: The Hebrew children in the furnace boldly trod the flame underfoot and transformed the fire into dew, crying out: Blessed art Thou, O Lord God, forever!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Keeping Thy precepts, the peace-loving Alfred submitted to Thy law and has given this law to all. In this wise he has vanquished the heathen hordes, knowing that the only true conquest is the conquest of the heart, crying out to Thee: Blessed art Thou, O Lord God!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Thy Cross, which has drawn all from the pit of destruction, O right-believing Alfred, has been revealed as the vanquisher of the demons forever and the salvation and glory and greatness of our land.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
By godly works thou hast made thy heart into a temple of God, O greatly loved Alfred, and didst likewise build sacred churches for Him, making one thy land and becoming the first of the Kings of the English.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Committing sins by my will and enslaved by shameful habits, now do I flee to thy habitual loving-kindness, O all-holy Sovereign Lady, save me who am in despair!
Ode VIII, Irmos: In his folly the Chaldean tyrant heated the furnace sevenfold for the pious youths; but, beholding them saved by a higher Power, he cried out to the Creator and Deliverer: Ye children, bless; ye priests, hymn; ye people, exalt Him above all for all ages!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Adorned in a raiment of loving-kindness and goodly meekness, thou, O wise Alfred, wast crowned with a mind great in the virtues; and having been translated from earth to the kingdom on high, thou criest: Ye priests, bless; ye people, exalt Christ above all forever!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Beholding thee in joy in the kingdom of God, O righteous Alfred, we magnify Christ Who has revealed thine honoured festival, which, brighter than the rays of the sun enlightens us who sing with faith: Ye people, exalt Christ above all forever!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Wise is thy desire and godly is thy cast of mind, O wise Alfred, thou boast of kings. For having restored thy people to the true faith, thou didst adorn thy land with fair churches, crying: Ye people, exalt Christ above all forever!
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Birthgiver of God, enlighten the eyes of my soul which have been blinded by my many transgressions; grant peace to my mind and heart, which have been vexed by divers temptations, I pray thee, and save me who cry: Ye priests, bless; ye people, exalt the pure one above all for all ages!
Ode IX, Irmos: Heaven was awe-struck and the ends of the earth were amazed, that God appeared in the flesh and thy womb became more spacious than the heavens. Therefore, the ranks of men and angels magnify thee as the Birthgiver of God.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Thy memory inspires all who honour thee, O wise Alfred, and from thy capital in Winchester that is saved by God, the House of Alfred became the House of England, as the holy Cuthbert foretold thee, driving away the darkness of divers passions and enlightening those who praise thee with the never-waning light.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Having finished thy life in holiness, now thou dwellest with the saints, full of holiness and wisdom. Therefore, as once before thou didst restore the faith of the White Christ to thy land, O blessed Alfred, revelation to the latter times, pray to Christ our God that the true faith may be restored in this land once more.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
O immortal King from everlasting, Thou hast vouchsafed Thy heavenly kingdom to the righteous Alfred, whom of old Thou didst grant to reign piously on earth and who loved Thee in purity together with his holy family. By his supplications have mercy on us all, O Lord.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Having conceived, thou gavest birth to the King and Creator of all, O Virgin. And, lo! as a Queen now dost thou stand at His right hand. Therefore, I beseech thee: at the hour of judgement deliver me from standing on the left side and number me with the sheep on the right side.
Troparion, Tone IV: Hearkening to the White Christ, thou camest forth from thy flood-girt fastness to overcome the heathen and lead them forth to holy baptism. Thou didst build churches, strongholds, shires and swift ships, restoring the law of God and making thyself beloved of all. O wise King and glory of free England, who reignest in the Winchester of the heavenly England, thou who didst vanquish heathendom by Christendom, establish anew the Orthodox Faith in thy land that we may glorify God, Who alone made thee great.
Ode I, Irmos: Having crossed the water as though it were dry land and escaped the evil of Egypt, the Israelite cried aloud: Let us sing unto our Deliverer and God!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
O Thou, the King of heaven, through the entreaties of Thy favourite Alfred, Who sought wisdom and truth from his youth up and took consolation in psalms and prayers, free my lowly soul from sin.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
As one who loved the kingdom on high, O great Alfred the Wise, England’s Shepherd and England’s Darling, believing with a pure mind and loving God’s saints, thou dost worship and preach the King and Master of all.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Illumined by the divine light, O righteous Alfred, thou knewest that true nobility is in the mind and so rebuilt a House of Wisdom, most sincerely entrusting thyself to the King of the ages and teaching thy people the commandments of Christ.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Sovereign Lady, thou portal of the divine Dayspring, open to me the door of repentance and by thine intercession deliver me from the gates of deadly sin.
Ode III, Irmos: O Lord, Shaper of the vault of heaven and Creator of the Church: establish me in Thy love, O Summit of desire, confirmation of the faithful, Who alone lovest mankind.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Striving to receive heavenly rewards, O right-believing Alfred, thou hast followed Him Who called thee, in no wise being tempted by the demon darkness of the heathen, but becoming a beacon of light unto them through the divine Spirit.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Having cleaved unto Christ and set all thy hope on Him, thou, O wise King, hast shown that true greatness is in forgiveness, thus attaining the heavenly kingdom, granted unto us by the All-good God through His all-pure sufferings.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Burning with faith, O blessed one, thou hast shown forth the Wisdom of God by bearing thy cross, the weapon of salvation, the invincible victory, the hope of all Christians and ever the glory of thy land.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Having fallen from heavenly citizenship, O all- pure one, I have become like unto a wild beast and am wholly condemned, O thou who gavest birth to the Judge, save me from all condemnation.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Sessional hymn of the saint, Tone VIII: Having yearned for the kingdom of heaven and beheld its beauty in creation, thou wast taught the mysteries of the Lord of all. The Cross shone forth in thy midst, signifying that thou shouldst conquer therein. Therefore, the eyes of thy soul opened, O wise Alfred, beseech Christ our God that He may grant remission of sins to those who with love celebrate thy holy memory. Twice
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Theotokion: Having conceived the Wisdom and Word in thy womb not being consumed, thou, O Mother of God, gavest birth for the world to Him Who sustains the world, and didst bear in thine arms Him Who upholds all things, the Creator of all. Therefore, O most holy Virgin, I beseech thee and glorify thee with faith, that I may be delivered from transgressions and on the day of judgement, when I stand before the face of my Maker, grant me thine aid, O pure Virgin and Sovereign Lady.
Ode IV, Irmos: O Lord, I have heard of the mystery of Thy providence; I have understood Thy works and glorified Thy Divinity.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Christ the Lord granted thee holy baptism and instructed thee from childhood through thy noble and godly parents, teaching thee, O wise Alfred, to worship Him as the only King, so preparing thee for kingship both on earth and in heaven.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Christ the Sun of Righteousness enlightened thee, O righteous Alfred, with His most bright grace, revealing thee, together with thy companion the holy King Edmund, as a valiant warrior and beacon of light to the benighted heathen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Thou, O blessed one, wast God-loving in nature and right wondrous in thy divine works, therefore this little island has brought forth a great man, a new David who overcame a new Goliath, and thee do we glorify with faith.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Ever-virgin who gavest birth to the Sun of righteousness, enlighten my soul which has been darkened by sin.
Ode V, Irmos: Waking at dawn, we cry unto Thee: Save us, O Lord! For Thou art our God, and we know none other than Thee.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Having risen at dawn to the never-waning Sun and Master, O learned Alfred, thou wast filled with light, keeping fast and feast, preaching the faith and restoring the Church, and so wisdom has taken the place of the sword.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Arrayed in love and justice as a robe of royal purple, thou becamest a law-giver like unto Moses, teaching the commandments of Christ and establishing His word as law in the King’s English, and now thou hast gone to dwell in the kingdom on high.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
O Alfred, unshakeable pillar of the English Church and people, thou hast joined the choirs of the saints, having trampled down Odin and all his demons underfoot, pleasing the White Christ by thy virtuous works and words.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Cleanse my soul, which has been defiled by fleshly pleasures through the treachery of the serpent, O Virgin.
Ode VI, Irmos: I pour forth my prayer unto the Lord and to Him I declare my sorrow; for my soul is full of evil and my life has drawn nigh unto hell, and like Jonah I pray unto Thee: Lead me up from corruption, O God!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Thou didst gather the faithful remnants of the Church together, O righteous Alfred, and through them didst calm the storm-tossed hearts of all and return them to the fold together with the newly baptised, glorifying the Word and Wisdom of God; so gather us together in these latter times anew.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Having believed in the White Christ Who grants life to all, thou, O wise Alfred, didst make the heathen to spurn the worship of Odin and receive the kingdom of heaven with joy; so help us in these latter times to trample down the old demons anew.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Guided by Thy hand, O Word, through Thee the King brought the heathen to cast aside the deepest darkness of ignorance and the tempest of cruel godlessness, and come unto the calm havens of piety with joy; so in these latter times bring us unto the calm havens of piety with joy anew.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O holy Maiden, heal my heart, which has fallen sick, grievously wounded by the sting of the evil one, and by thine entreaties vouchsafe healing unto me and save me who trust in thee, O all-pure one.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Kontakion of the saint, Tone II: Today the wise Alfred glorifies the White Christ among his faithful people and so builds a House of Wisdom. Therein he puts to shame all the heathen, showing the Cross to be the greatest weapon of kings against all enemies. Pray for us, O righteous one, and build a House of Wisdom among us today that there we may glorify the White Christ anew. For this great battle standard has appeared for our sakes and for our salvation.
Ikos: Today let us honour the great Alfred, for, hearing the words of David, he recognised the three parts of the Cross in the cedar, the pine and the cypress, in which the suffering of the Saviour was accomplished. And, victorious, he set it before all the heathen, that they might bend their necks before the Son of God, accepting illumination from the Church of God. For this great battle standard has appeared for our sakes and for our salvation.
Ode VII, Irmos: The Hebrew children in the furnace boldly trod the flame underfoot and transformed the fire into dew, crying out: Blessed art Thou, O Lord God, forever!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Keeping Thy precepts, the peace-loving Alfred submitted to Thy law and has given this law to all. In this wise he has vanquished the heathen hordes, knowing that the only true conquest is the conquest of the heart, crying out to Thee: Blessed art Thou, O Lord God!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Thy Cross, which has drawn all from the pit of destruction, O right-believing Alfred, has been revealed as the vanquisher of the demons forever and the salvation and glory and greatness of our land.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
By godly works thou hast made thy heart into a temple of God, O greatly loved Alfred, and didst likewise build sacred churches for Him, making one thy land and becoming the first of the Kings of the English.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Committing sins by my will and enslaved by shameful habits, now do I flee to thy habitual loving-kindness, O all-holy Sovereign Lady, save me who am in despair!
Ode VIII, Irmos: In his folly the Chaldean tyrant heated the furnace sevenfold for the pious youths; but, beholding them saved by a higher Power, he cried out to the Creator and Deliverer: Ye children, bless; ye priests, hymn; ye people, exalt Him above all for all ages!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Adorned in a raiment of loving-kindness and goodly meekness, thou, O wise Alfred, wast crowned with a mind great in the virtues; and having been translated from earth to the kingdom on high, thou criest: Ye priests, bless; ye people, exalt Christ above all forever!
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Beholding thee in joy in the kingdom of God, O righteous Alfred, we magnify Christ Who has revealed thine honoured festival, which, brighter than the rays of the sun enlightens us who sing with faith: Ye people, exalt Christ above all forever!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Wise is thy desire and godly is thy cast of mind, O wise Alfred, thou boast of kings. For having restored thy people to the true faith, thou didst adorn thy land with fair churches, crying: Ye people, exalt Christ above all forever!
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Birthgiver of God, enlighten the eyes of my soul which have been blinded by my many transgressions; grant peace to my mind and heart, which have been vexed by divers temptations, I pray thee, and save me who cry: Ye priests, bless; ye people, exalt the pure one above all for all ages!
Ode IX, Irmos: Heaven was awe-struck and the ends of the earth were amazed, that God appeared in the flesh and thy womb became more spacious than the heavens. Therefore, the ranks of men and angels magnify thee as the Birthgiver of God.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Thy memory inspires all who honour thee, O wise Alfred, and from thy capital in Winchester that is saved by God, the House of Alfred became the House of England, as the holy Cuthbert foretold thee, driving away the darkness of divers passions and enlightening those who praise thee with the never-waning light.
Holy, Right-Believing King Alfred, pray to God for us.
Having finished thy life in holiness, now thou dwellest with the saints, full of holiness and wisdom. Therefore, as once before thou didst restore the faith of the White Christ to thy land, O blessed Alfred, revelation to the latter times, pray to Christ our God that the true faith may be restored in this land once more.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
O immortal King from everlasting, Thou hast vouchsafed Thy heavenly kingdom to the righteous Alfred, whom of old Thou didst grant to reign piously on earth and who loved Thee in purity together with his holy family. By his supplications have mercy on us all, O Lord.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Having conceived, thou gavest birth to the King and Creator of all, O Virgin. And, lo! as a Queen now dost thou stand at His right hand. Therefore, I beseech thee: at the hour of judgement deliver me from standing on the left side and number me with the sheep on the right side.
Troparion, Tone IV: Hearkening to the White Christ, thou camest forth from thy flood-girt fastness to overcome the heathen and lead them forth to holy baptism. Thou didst build churches, strongholds, shires and swift ships, restoring the law of God and making thyself beloved of all. O wise King and glory of free England, who reignest in the Winchester of the heavenly England, thou who didst vanquish heathendom by Christendom, establish anew the Orthodox Faith in thy land that we may glorify God, Who alone made thee great.
Prayer: O holy right-believing Alfred, great king of Wessex and father of the English nation, hear our supplication.
Thou hast shown us an indelible example of courage and faith in the marshes of Æthelney, when all England was suffering the depredation of the heathen Danes. Thou didst build up the defenses of thy kingdom as thou didst also strive to increase the Christian Faith in thy kingly heart, showing an example of true wisdom to friend and foe alike; enlightening thy people, showing mercy to thy vanquished foes, wisely preparing for war, but striving always for a holy peace.
Thou didst love learning and render into English many holy books, sending them out to all thy people, raising up their minds and hearts in the light of true knowledge. Thou didst renew the ancient laws of England, becoming a new Justinian, showing an example of the righteous judgement required by God of all who are in seats of power.
We, thy spiritual children, ask now thy strong intercession before the King of kings; help us in our time of trouble. Be like Elijah and grant us a double portion of thy spirit that thirsted after these virtues of courage, faith, steadfastness in the face of uncertainty and fear, the love of the Lord that bringeth holy wisdom, and righteous and merciful judgement in the fear of God.
O Alfred, wise king, do thou entreat Him to guide us steadily, as He guided thee, and to grant order, justice, peace, and tranquility to our native land.
In the name of the Father to Whom thou drawest nearer every day, the Son Whose love thou didst teach to all, and the Holy Spirit Who fillest thy heart, now and ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Through the good offices of the fathers and brothers of the Oratory of St Philip Neri, it will be the joy and privilege of the Cardiff parish of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia to greet and receive the wonderworking, myrrh-weeping Hawaiian-Iveron icon of our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos in the Oratory Church on the evening of Tuesday 12th November, at 18:30.
This icon, a copy of the Montreal Iveron Icon of the Mother of God (Our Lady of the Portal), began weeping perfumed oil in 2007, and having been examined by the hierarchy of the Russian Church Abroad was confirmed as a miraculous image.
This has been confirmed over the decades, as the Mother of God has touched countless lives through her holy icon, and granted healing to the sick, children to the childless, peace to those in strife, employment to the jobless, and all manner of help and graces to those in need.
Our own parish has been touched by miracles and graces, and we have seen the icon stream and drip myrrh copiously, especially in St Alban’s Abbey when placed with the portion of the Protomartyr’s relics enshrined there. Yet again, it seems that the Queen of Martyrs has willed her wonderworking-icon to be with the relics of St Alban.
We sincerely hope that our Catholic and Anglican friends – some of them generous benefactors to our community in various ways – will be able to join us and our brothers and sisters from the Orthodox parishes of Cardiff to honour the Mother of God, venerate the icon and be anointed with the holy myrrh, which is the sign of the mercy and abundant grace of our all-pure and all-holy Lady, the Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary.
We will greet the icon at the gates of St Alban’s Church, CF24 2NT, at 18:30, though prepared for some flexibility in arrival time, with the custom being that we greet wonderworking icons of the Mother of God, as the Queen of heaven and earth with flowers, as Our Lady, herself, is greeted and honoured in her holy images.
It is with great sorrow that I have to share the sad news that despite welcoming us back to St John’s in January with all sorts of bright and cheery talk of partnership, cooperation and working together to provide Christian witness and spiritual support for the people of Cardiff, the West Cardiff Ministry Area Council (whoever that may consist of) has given our parish three months notice to leave St John’s, making clear that none of our possessions may remain in the building after the end of January.
Their email refers to…
“developments which now necessitate us giving you three months notice that from January 2025, we will no longer be willing or able to accept hire bookings, for worship or prayer purposes, from you. This follows a decision by the West Cardiff Ministry Area Council that our church buildings will only in future be available for hire – for worship or prayer purposes – by congregations and denominations who are members of Cytûn : Churches together in Wales or CTBI. As I understand it, you are members of neither ecumenical instruments and so, from January 2025, we will no longer able to accept such bookings from you.”
In a nutshell, unless we are members of an organisation with some members that deny even the Holy Trinity, the Lord’s divinity, and even the Holy Mysteries, the local Anglican clergy are UNWILLING to allow us to even pay to worship in any of their buildings.
I have to admit to incomprehension as to how we have moved from the affirmative and positive talk in Llŷs Esgob on 27 December last year, and a cheery welcome back to the Crescent, to effectively being asked to leave.
How times have changed in St John’s since Mother Frances, who always took an interest in the welfare of the parish and its faithful, and did everything to support our mission.
We now have to work rapidly to find a temporary solution, at the very least, and our prayers and sharing ideas now have an added force and urgency. At the same time, we are exploring more permanent solutions to our situation.
Though I am away until tomorrow, these are days of emails and messages, as we begin to address the urgency of our situation.
Back in Cardiff, on Thursday we will have a moleben to the Mother of God in honour of her Protecting Veil for the guidance and protection of our community at 15:00. We will chant a panikhida for St Demetrios on Saturday afternoon at 15:00, gathering in the Oratory Church for both services.
I will hear confessions on both days, but with Fr Mark away, Sunday will only allow for a few confessions whilst the church is arranged for Liturgy.
Any other confessions and the reception of Holy Communion will need to be after Liturgy, and we will need to know before the service if the Holy Gifts are to be reserved.
Next Monday – 4th November – is the feast of the Kazan Icon, and we will celebrate the Liturgy in the Oratory Church at 10:30.
Our parish observance of the feast, on Sunday 10th November, will allow us to celebrate together, and we have extended our hire time to allow for an unrushed trapeza. We will post information regarding food on WhatsApp, so please keep an eye.
Many thanks to all who contributed to services and our pilgrimage over the last week.
Saturday’s pilgrimage to Lazarica was a great joy and blessing, all the more so in the light of our ever increasing trials and hardships.
It was lovely for our parishioners to meet the Bournville faithful for Liturgy, and for us to have the privilege to offer the akathist to the Mother of God before the Hilandarska-Trojeručica icon of the Mother of God.
We are extremely grateful to Father Nenad for his great kindness and warm welcome.
Despite the growing storm-clouds we encounter, we must not allow our adversities to overshadow our celebrations and rob us of joy and grace. The darker our surroundings, the brighter the Light of Christ shines to dispel the darkness.
Our current circumstances must force us to pray more and with greater attention and devotion.
Whatever our sorrows, and whatever tests us, the Lord is Risen, the gates of hell have been shattered and death has been conquered!
Ode I, Irmos: Having traversed the water as though it were dry land, and escaped the evil of Egypt, the Israelite cried aloud: Let us chant unto our Deliverer and God!
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
Ye are a rule for monastics, O healers of the infirm and sorrowful. O shepherds of lost sheep, teach us to offer hymnody worthily unto you.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
Rejoice, O honoured Paisius our father, chief shepherd of the monastic folds, who guided ranks of monks to the heavenly pasture and hast instructed the ends of the Russian land!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Theodore, the monk of Svir, with many tears and a life of sorrow endured evils; yet, being steadfast and strong of mind, he spiritually begat a son, Leo, amid his pangs.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Virgin Mother Theotokos, entreat Christ Who was incarnate of thee, that He preserve the Russian land, and that He save our souls, in that He is merciful.
Ode III, Irmos: O Lord, Fashioner of the vault of heaven and Creator of the Church: establish me in Thy love, O Summit of desire, confirmation of the faithful, Who alone lovest mankind.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
Thou didst set Christ, the Chief Cornerstone, as the firm foundation of thy struggles, and didst become the first of the company of elders, O Leo; and thou didst receive the grace to dispel the infirmities of those who suffer cruelly.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
O Leo, thou didst cry out thus to those who oppressed thee: “I shall chant unto my God for as long as I have my being! Who will separate me from His love? Therein will I remain until the end, doing His will with boldness!”
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Truly blessed was the venerable Macarius, for he fed the souls of the hungry, freely nourishing all with his grace-filled discourse, doing away with their spiritual starvation, and bringing peace to souls beset by the tempest of the passions.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
From thee, O Mother of God, hath a torrent of sweetness poured forth, watering all men and washing away the defilement of their souls, O Virgin Theotokos; wherefore, from all tribulations do thou save those who venerate thy precious image.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Sessional Hymn, Tone IV, Spec. Mel. “Thou hast appeared…”: Ye have been shown to be instruments of the Holy Spirit, O venerable fathers, and have been vouchsafed gifts of prophecy; for in your souls the unapproachable light shone forth. (Twice)
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Theotokion: At a loss how to hymn thee worthily, who art more exalted than all creation, O Theotokos, we beseech thee: Freely have mercy upon us!
Ode IV, Irmos: I have heard, O Lord, the mystery of Thy dispensation; I have understood Thy works, and have glorified Thy divinity.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
O most wise Macarius, thou didst glean spiritual grain from the writings of the holy fathers, and didst feed hungry souls.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
As the instructor of monks in the Monastery of the Forerunner, by thy life of abstinence, O Anthony, pray thou for those who praise thee.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As brethren in the flesh and spirit, O divinely wise pastors Moses and Anthony, ye guided your sheep to the pasture.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O pure Theotokos, divine flower and root which put forth a Shoot, unceasingly pray for us who hymn thee as the Theotokos.
Ode V, Irmos: Enlighten us with Thy commandments, O Lord, and with Thine upraised arm grant us Thy peace, O Thou Who lovest mankind.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
Elisha received a twofold measure of grace from Elijah, and upon thee, O father Ambrose, did the grace of fathers Leo and Macarius rest.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
O Ambrose, thou didst acquire within thyself love, the perfection of the virtues; for thou wast all things to all men, and a refuge for the poor.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
O Ambrose, with divine food thou didst nourish starving hearts, and didst nurture thy sheep on the pasture of the Word.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Mother of God, our fervent helper: illumine us who pray to thee, ever making entreaty for us, thine unworthy servants.
Ode VI, Irmos: I pour forth my prayer unto the Lord, and to Him do I declare my grief; for my soul is full of evil and my life hath drawn nigh unto hell, and like Jonah I pray: Lead me up from corruption, O God!
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
Thou wast a true son, O Joseph, having acquired unfeigned obedience, the begetter of dispassion; and as one meek, pure and merciful, thou didst humbly say: “I am useless without my father!”
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
The chaste-minded Joseph faithfully followed in the steps of his father: he humbled himself even unto death, thus emulating Christ the Master. Wherefore, we beseech him: Teach thou humility even to us sinners!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Having acquired the love of thy father, O Anatolius, with him thou didst shepherd the reason-endowed flock; and now, O father, forget us not, but be thou mindful of thy sheep and guide them, seeking thy lost children and leading us all to salvation.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
I know thee to be the helper of my life and my steadfast preserver, O Virgin, who doest away with the tumult of temptations and fendest off the assaults of the demons; and I ever pray thus, that thou mayest deliver me from my passions.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Kontakion, VIII: Spec. Mel. “To thee, the champion leader…”: Having withdrawn from this vain world and discovered a treasure through your pure life, ye have not ceased your care for sinners in this world; but, as guides for the lost, deliver us from the vanity of this world, that we may say: Rejoice, O divinely wise elders!
Ikos: Emulating the angels, ye withdrew from the world, desiring to make your abode in the wilderness; yet forget us not who are still in the world, we sinners pray, that, delivered from delusion, we may address you thus: Rejoice, physicians of spiritual sicknesses; rejoice, healers of bodily ailments! Rejoice, ye who transcended the understanding of the wise; rejoice, ye who guided the unwise to understanding! Rejoice, ye who offered up unceasing prayers; rejoice, mediators before God for sinners! Rejoice, O divinely wise elders!
Ode VII, Irmos: Once, in Babylon, the youths who had come forth from Judæa trod down the flame of the furnace with their faith in the Trinity, chanting: O God of our fathers, blessed art Thou!
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
O father Hilarion, having withdrawn from the world, abandoning all that is therein and considering it but dung, thou didst cleave unto the elders Leo and Macarius, and hast received from Christ the authority to drive out evil spirits.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
Isaacius, the compassionate monk, comforted those who came to him, helping them in every way, as parents help their children.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
No prophet is without honor, save only in his own house, for they drove away all the prophets; and thou, O venerable father Barsanuphius, being driven out, wast vouchsafed blessedness, having endured exile for righteousness’ sake.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Virgin Theotokos, pray to thy Son for us who with faith have recourse to thy mercy and worship Him, that we may be delivered from tribulations and temptations.
Ode VIII, Irmos: The King of heaven, Whom the hosts of angels hymn, praise and exalt ye supremely for all ages!
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
Nectarius hath come to share in eternal glory, having spurned the glory of this life; for every one who humbleth himself will be exalted.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
Let the fathers Anatolius, Nectarius, Isaacius and Nicon be blessed; for, having suffered lawfully, they join chorus for all ages.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Driven out by apostates, the fathers were not troubled, but cried aloud: “Our life is in the heavens!”
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Disdain not those who require thine aid, O Virgin, and who hymn and exalt thee supremely forever.
Ode IX, Irmos: Saved by thee, O pure Virgin, we confess thee to be in truth the Theotokos, magnifying thee with the incorporeal choirs.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
Truly ye acquired every virtue, and every gift was given you. Yet save your flock, praying for them.
Venerable fathers of Optina, pray to God for us.
We have accepted the commandment, Give thanks for all things, that we may praise God, in that He hath given you to us, O holy guides to His kingdom.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
O our intercessors, pray ye earnestly for the land of Russia, and save all who celebrate your memory with faith.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O holy Mistress, help us sinners, and deliver our homeland from the evil foe. We beseech thee: keep us under the shelter of thy wings.
Troparion, Tone I: Abiding in unceasing prayer, and embracing the wicked as well as the good with love, O venerable elders of Optina, ye served God and your neighbours, and through vigils, tears and fasting received the gift of divers miracles. Glory to Him Who hath given us such mediators! Glory to Him Who hath glorified you! Glory to God Who is wondrous in His saints!
Thanks to all who contributed to our services over the last week, in which it was a blessing to celebrate a service every day other than Monday – Friday seeing an unplanned chanting of the akathist to the precious Cross, after extra confessions. Yesterday saw a belated celebration of the Protecting Veil of the Mother of God, in Cheltenham, and today saw a litia to honour the feast after Liturgy.
Two of the week’s services were molebny (supplicatory services) offered for our parish in its present unsure circumstances: one to honour the feast of the Protecting Veil and the other to honour the Cross.
Each week, one of our services in the Oratory Church will be for the welfare of the parish, with the chanting of the canon and akathist for the Protecting Veil of the Mother of God.
We continue to ask that parishioners pray the akathist hymns in honour of the Kursk Root Icon and St John the Wonderworker on behalf of our community.
Parallel English/Slavonic text of the akathist in honour of the Kursk-Root icon:
Today saw our second Sunday with time pressure on the parish and we are extremely grateful for all who are working hard to make things work.
It was good to have so many in church, with more new faces and so many young people. Please make sure you say hello and welcome our visitors!
We must insist that next week ONLY FINGER FOOD is brought to trapéza, and nothing needing cutlery or china from the kitchen is brought to the table. We need to avoid washing up and keep cleaning straight forward and easy. Our senior sister will need to be strict on this front, so please work with us to make things work! Thank you.
As announced, this week will be slightly different.
The need for me to stay on Wednesday for a Thursday morning funeral will mean that we have afternoon services in the Oratory Church on Wednesday and Thursday at 15:00.
Parishioners will head to Lazarica in Bournville on a parish pilgrimage this weekend, with the Liturgy at 09:00. I will hear confessions before the Liturgy.
Finger food for post Liturgy refreshments will be greatly appreciated.
As Father Mark the Younger explained, he is away for the next two Sundays. This will make usual confessions impossible, so those who confessed today are blessed to commune next weekend. I have a few prearranged confessions next Sunday morning, but these will be the only ones heard. This is unfortunately unavoidable.
I will hear confessions on Wednesday and Thursday, with the opportunity to hear evening-confessions on Thursday if needed, but please message me to arrange this.
The next few weeks will be a challenge, and require flexibility and generosity.
Please pray for Father Mark, Matushka and Yuriy as they head away for a break, and forward any prayer requests to be offered before the relics of St Nicholas, St Spyridon and St Theodora the Empress.
Finally, may I again request prayers for the newly departed Nun Joanna, Natalia (fortieth day on Wednesday), Mykola (funeral on Thursday), Sveta’s aunt Halina, and for Igor, Lydia and Halyna? Memory Eternal!
Asking your forgiveness for Christ’s sake, with thanks for your labours.
In this week following the feast of the Protecting Veil of the Most Holy Mother of God, we are continuing to celebrate the Intercession of the Queen of Heaven in our communities, and I would encourage all of our parishioners to continue to turn to the Theotokos for her protection and help for a parish in a time of trial and difficulty.
With this in mind we are posting the canon and akathist combined for use in home prayers, starting with the text in English, as we already have this published and on file.
Ode I, Irmos: I will open my mouth, and with the Spirit will it be filled; and I shall utter discourse unto the Queen and Mother, and shall be seen keeping splendid festival; and, rejoicing, I shall hymn her wonders.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
Having entered the church in great glory today as the Mother of God, with the ranks of the holy angels and the assemblies of the prophets and apostles, thou prayest for all Christians and deliverest them from perils and grief, covering them with thy mercy.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
Moses called thee the tabernacle and the rod of Aaron, for thou didst put forth Christ, the Tree of life; and as thou hast boldness before Him, O Queen, pray thou for us who honour thee, that He deliver us from all evil, that we may glorify the feast of thy protection.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Assembling choirs, David doth dance, not as he did before the ark of old, but even more now, hastening into thy presence in the church with the ranks of the saints. And bowing down before thee, we say: Pray thou for us, the people who honour thee, that, glorifying thy protection, we may celebrate it with honour.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
The ranks of the angels hymn thee, O Theotokos, and the patriarchs and holy hierarchs glorify thee, hastening into thy presence in the church. And the holy Andrew then beheld thee with them, praying to God for us sinners, that He have mercy upon the people who glorify the feast of thy protection.
Ode III, Irmos:O Theotokos, thou living and abundant fountain, in thy divine glory spiritually establish those who hymn thee, forming themselves into a choir, and vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
Like an unploughed field thou didst manifestly produce the divine Grain. Rejoice, O animate table holding the Bread of life! Rejoice, O Mistress, thou inexhaustible wellspring of the Water of life!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
O Mistress, we, thy people, standing before thee with faith in thy church, await thy mercy. Visit our lowliness, and with thy holy protection defend the Orthodox people from all evil.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
O far-famed Virgin who was honourably prefigured by the prophets, with the angels they now do thee homage. Pray thou to God with them, that, rejoicing, we may all splendidly celebrate thy holy protection today.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Gideon prefigured thee as a fleece, for Christ God descended upon thee like dew. Pray thou to Him, O Theotokos, that He grant victory to our Orthodox hierarchs over all heresies, that, casting them down like the Midianites, they may glorify thy holy feast.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Theotokos, with thy radiant omophorion thou lightest the church and the people more than the rays of the sun, and by thy visitation drivest away the darkness of our sins, praying for us to thy Son and God.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Kontakion, Tone 3: Today the Virgin standeth forth in the church, and with the choirs of the saints she invisibly prayeth to God for us. Angels and hierarchs offer homage, and the apostles and prophets join chorus; for, for our sake the Theotokos entreateth the pre-eternal God.
Ikos: Come, O ye people, let us delight in her all-glorious miracles; for through her hath Adam been delivered from corruption. She is the ark fashioned, not by Noah, but by God. Of old, Moses was unable to see God in the fiery bush; but now the whole earth doth acknowledge the Son of God Who was born of her and to Whom she prayeth for us. Wherefore, we glorify her as the Mother of God; for, for our sake the Theotokos entreateth the pre-eternal God.
Sedalion, Tone 5: O pure Ever-virgin, fervent and invincible intercessor, excellent and unashamed hope, bulwark, protection and refuge of those who have recourse to thee: with the angels beseech thy Son and God, that He grant compunction, salvation and great mercy to the world.
Glory …, Now & ever …, The foregoing sedalion is repeated.
Ode IV, Irmos: Seated in glory upon the throne of the Godhead, Jesus most divine is come upon a light cloud, and with His incorrupt arm hath saved those who cry: Glory to Thy power, O Christ!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
O most hymned Virgin, we cry out to thee in voices of hymnody: Rejoice, thou butter mountain, curdled by the Spirit! Rejoice, O lampstand, O jar bearing the Manna which sweeteneth the senses of all the pious!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
O Theotokos, God hath sanctified thee wholly, more than the ark of Aaron, and hath commanded the saints and angels to do thee homage. With them pray for the city and people who glorify thine honoured feast.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
O Theotokos, come now in glory unto thy church, with the councils of all the saints, as once the holy Andrew beheld thee in the air, radiantly praying for Christians; and grant us thy mercy.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Strengthen our Orthodox hierarchs against all heresy and schism, as God did David against Goliath, O Mistress, that in gladness we may cry to thee: Rejoice, O holy protection and helper of our city!
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
With faith do we fall down before thee, O Lady, and, rendering homage with thanksgiving, we cry out to thee: Rejoice, O Virgin full of the grace of God, our protection and wall of defence, the helper of those in misfortune! Save us who have recourse to thee, for in thee do we place our trust!
Ode V, Irmos: All things are filled with awe by thy divine glory; for thou, O Virgin who knewest not wedlock, didst hold in thy womb Him Who is God over all, and thou gavest birth to the timeless Son, granting peace to all who hymn thee.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
Of old, Solomon described thee as the marriage-couch and bed of the King of heaven, and spake of thee as surrounded by the seraphim, O Theotokos. Wherefore, we now beseech thee, O most holy Mother of God: Protect us from all misfortunes!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
To thee do the foremost among the angels and the honoured prophets and apostles render service with honour as the Mother of God, beholding thee making supplication for the world; and the Lord, hearkening to thine entreaties, doth save thy city and people who place their trust in thee.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Isaiah, great among the prophets, prophesied thee, saying that without knowing wedlock thou wouldst give birth to God; for thou, O pure Mary, wast more holy than all, in that thou didst bear God in thy womb and in thine arms. To Him pray thou for us, with thy protection covering those who faithfully glorify thee.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Spreading spiritual wings, the councils of the saints came mystically to do thee homage, O Theotokos, beholding thee on the light cloud of glory, praying to Christ the Saviour, that He grant victory to our Orthodox hierarchs, to prevail over all heresy and schism.
Ode VI, Irmos:Celebrating this divine and most honoured festival of the Mother of God, come, ye divinely wise, let us clap our hands and glorify God Who was born of her!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
Divinely wise priests, standing in thy church with the pious people, await thy mercy, O Theotokos. Transform our grief into joy, in that thou gavest birth to the Joy Who hath done away with the sins of all men.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
To thee doth all the earth offer gifts as to the Queen and Mother of God. Kings and princes bow down in homage, and all the people are glad, protected from all evil by thy supplications, O Theotokos.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spir
Daniel described thee beforehand as a great mountain; for from thee was Christ born without seed. He hath destroyed all the falsehood of the demons, and hath filled all the earth with His Faith. To Him do thou pray for us who glorify the feast of thy protection, O Theotokos.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O all-pure one, we utter unto thee the cry of the angel: Rejoice, O throne of God, whereon Ezekiel beheld the Lord in the guise of a man, borne up by the cherubim! With them pray thou for us, O Theotokos, that He save our souls.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Kontakion 1: O Chosen by the Pre-Eternal God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, higher than all creation, who hast in days past entered praying into the Church of the Blachernae we, offering Thee with thanksgiving due veneration, flee with faith and compunction under Thy shining vestment for we lie in darkness. And as Thou who hast invincible power dost set us free from every affliction that we may cry to Thee: Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious veil.
Ikos 1: Archangels and angels with John the Forerunner, John the Divine and the choir of all the saints, were present with Thee, their Queen, in the Church of the Blachernae and hearing Thy moving supplication for all the world, they cried out with wonder as follows:
Rejoice, O pre-eternal good will of God the Father Who has no beginning of days.
Rejoice, timeless and most pure one who contained God the Son.
Rejoice, Thou chosen dwelling-place of God the all-Holy Spirit.
Rejoice, Thou never ceasing wonder of the angelic hosts on high.
Rejoice, Thou all-threatening terror of the dark forces of hell.
Rejoice, Thou whom the many-eyed cherubim meet in the air.
Rejoice, Thou to whom the six-winged seraphim ascribe praises.
Rejoice, Thou whose most precious veil we born on earth thankfully venerate.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 2: Saint Andrew with Epiphanios having seen Thee inside the Church praying to God in the air all Christians, acknowledged Thee to be the Mother of Christ our God Who ascended into heaven and falling to the ground they joyfully venerated Thine all-precious veil, crying: Alleluia!
Ikos 2: Thou O Theotokos Virgin art knowledge unknowable in defence of Orthodox people. Therefore our enemies know not how strong is the prayer of the Mother of God: while we well aware of Thine all-mighty protection cry to Thee with tender feeling:
Rejoice, Most merciful Comforter of all the afflicted and heavy laden.
Rejoice, never sleeping Guide of all those who have strayed and gone blind.
Rejoice, Thou who by Thy supplication dost swiftly appease the wrath of God rightly poured out on us.
Rejoice, Thou who by an all-powerful behest dost tame out evil passions.
Rejoice, strong waker of sleeping consciences.
Rejoice, easy overcomer of sinful practices.
Rejoice, Thou for whose sake hell groans and the spirits of evil tremble.
Rejoice, Thou for whose sake the gates of paradise are opened to all.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 3: Power from on high overshadows those who run for refuge with faith and reverence to Thy precious protection: for to Thee alone, O all holy and all pure only Mother of God is it given that every petition of Thine be fulfilled. Therefore the faithful of all ages glorify Thee and Thy Son, crying: Alleluia!
Ikos 3: O Lady, having a never-failing wealth of mercy, Thou dost stretch the hand of help to all the ends of the earth: and dost give healing to the sick, relief to the suffering, sight to the blind, and to all everything that is expedient for them as they cry aloud in thanksgiving:
Rejoice, indestructible fortress and bulwark of Orthodox rulers.
Rejoice, principle adornment of holy churches and altars.
Rejoice, truest guard of holy monasteries.
Rejoice, vigilant Helper of stouthearted civil authorities.
Rejoice, unconquerable Leader of Christian captains and armies.
Rejoice, holy mirror of justice for judges who take no bribes.
Rejoice, perfect knowledge for teachers and those who bring up children.
Rejoice, Blessing of pious homes and families.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 4: O Lady, Thou dost help us held fast by a storm of many afflictions: for Thou dost stand before the altar of the Lord, lifting Thine hands and praying that the Lord of glory look down on our unworthy prayer and hearken to the petitions of those who call upon Thy holy Name crying to Thy Son: Alleluia!
Ikos 4: The Lord God heard Joshua, son of Nun, praying and He commanded the sun to stand still until he defeated the enemy. The Lord Jesus now hears Thy supplication, O chosen dwelling of the Holy Spirit. Therefore we sinners, putting our trust in Thy protection, make bold to say to Thee, Mother of God:
Rejoice, Thou who are lit by the Sun of the mind and who dost enlighten us with the light that never sets.
Rejoice, Thou who hast illumined the whole earth by the brightness of Thy most pure soul.
Rejoice, Thou who hast made glad the whole heavens by the purity of Thy body.
Rejoice, Protector and Provider of the holy monasteries of Christ.
Rejoice, Thou who art the strength and understanding of the pastors of the Church.
Rejoice, Guide of God-fearing monks and nuns.
Rejoice, untroubled rest of the pious aged.
Rejoice, secret gladness of pure virgins and widows.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 5: When Moses who saw God lifted his arms while the battle with Amalek raged, Israel overcame and when he let his hands fall, Amalek was victorious and strengthened by those who hold up his arms, Israel defeated the enemy; and Thou, O Mother of God, having raised Thine hands in supplication, even though no man hold them up, dost always conquer the enemies of Christ and art an invincible shield for us who cry: Alleluia!
Ikos 5: The assemblies of saints when they had seen Thee in the air inside the church of the Blachernae stretching Thy hands in prayer to Thy Son and God, sang Thee a song in Thanksgiving with the archangels and angels: while we, our hands fortified by Thee made stronger than the arms of Moses, cry aloud with compunction:
Rejoice, Thou whose love and mercy towards us alone hold out Thine hands for us.
Rejoice, Thou before Whom our enemies, visible and invisible, cannot stand.
Rejoice, Thou who drivest away the dark hordes of our passions and lusts.
Rejoice, Thou who holdest in Thine hand without being consumed, the divine fire of Christ, and who with it dost set us in our coldness aflame.
Rejoice, Thou who crownest with a fair crown of chastity those who fight against the flesh.
Rejoice, Thou perpetual Converser with those who strive in fasting and silent prayer.
Rejoice, Thou speedy Comforter of those who fall from despair and sadness.
Rejoice, Thou who dost by grace provide us with humility and patience.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 6: Saint Roman the Melodist, appeared as an unfailing proclaimer of Thy grace and mercy when he had received from Thee in a dream a paper roll to swallow: for thereby made wise, he began to sing with skill in Thine honor and to write praises for the saints, calling out with faith: Alleluia!
Ikos 6: O Virgin, Maid of God, who hast shone forth the Dawn from the true Sun of righteousness, enlightening all with the wisdom of Thy God and Son and who leadest all to knowledge of the truth those who cry to Thee:
Rejoice, Thou who hast given birth to Christ in the flesh, the power of God and wisdom of God.
Rejoice, Thou who hast confounded the foolish wisdom of this world and who hast guided those blinded by it on the way of truth.
Rejoice, Preserver of our holy faith and teacher of Orthodox dogma.
Rejoice, Uprooter of impious heresies and corrupting divisions.
Rejoice, Thou who well knowest secret and unforeseen difficulties and dost tell those whom it is proper about them.
Rejoice, thou who puttest to shame false seers and vain divining.
Rejoice, Thou who in the hour of perplexity dost put a good thought in our hearts.
Rejoice, Thou who dost turn us from perilous purposes and senseless desires.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 7: The all-seeing, long suffering Lord, wishing to manifest the unsearchable deep of His mercies and love for mankind, chose Thee alone to be His Mother, and made Thee into an invincible defence for His people: that even though one of them appear worthy of condemnation by the righteous judgment of God, yet all the more shall he be preserved for repentance by Thy mighty protection, crying: Alleluia!
Ikos 7: O Lord, Thou hast shown in Thine all-pure Mother, how wonderful are Thy works when Her most marvellous veil was revealed in Her hand shining brighter than the rays of the sun and with it She protected the people in the Church of Blachernae: for hearing of such a sign of Her defence, held by fear and joy, all say:
Rejoice, thou veil not made by hand of man that is spread over the whole world like a cloud.
Rejoice, Thou who dost hold in Thine hands the banner of Thy Son, the Pre-Eternal High-Priest.
Rejoice, Thou who hast thereby made manifest a new mercy and new grace in the Orthodox Church.
Rejoice, pillar of cloud who protectest all of us in the world from temptations and scandals.
Rejoice, pillar of fire amidst the darkness, showing us all the path of salvation.
Rejoice, visible strength of manifest strivers for godliness.
Rejoice, secret Giver of understanding to the secret servants of God in this world.
Rejoice, Thou who also leavest not without Thy grace and protection me who am stripped of all good works.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 8: Angels sang Thy praises when Thou didst appear in wondrous wise from heaven in the Church of the Blachernae and apostles gave Thee glory. The choir of holy bishops and monks and the band of holy women extolled Thee, the Forerunner with John the Theologian venerated Thee, and the people present in the Church cried aloud with joy: Alleluia!
Ikos 8: The Lord Who reignest over all things above and below, when He had seen Thee, His Mother, standing in the Church and praying with tender feeling to Him, said: Ask, O my Mother, because I shall never turn from Thee but will fulfil all Thy petitions and teach all to sing to Thee in thanksgiving:
Rejoice, Ark of the law in which is kept the sanctification of all mankind.
Rejoice, all-holy Jar in which the bread of eternal life is preserved for those who hunger for righteousness.
Rejoice, all-golden Vessel in which the flesh and blood of the divine Lamb are prepared for us.
Rejoice, Thou who dost receive in Thine all-powerful arms those foresaken by the physicians.
Rejoice, Thou who dost raise from their bed of sickness those crippled in body, but not in spirit and faith.
Rejoice, Thou who givest a new and better understanding to those who are perishing from infirmity of mind.
Rejoice, Thou who dost wisely trip us up on the stubborn path of sin and passion.
Rejoice, Thou who dost turn to mercy the cruelty of our unrepentant hearts.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 9: The whole assembly of angels offers Thee praises, Thou true Mother of God and Defender of all who run to Thee, knowing how with Thine unfailing protection Thou dost rejoice the righteous, protect and deliver the poor, and pray for all the faithful crying: Alleluia!
Ikos 9: The wordy orators, become as dumb fish, are at a loss as to how to praise as is due, the great feast of Thine all-precious protection: for all the things said by them about Thee suffice not to number Thy mercies alone. And we, seeing Thy good works without number, cry with gladness:
Rejoice, Thou who dost guard us from the deadly plague in which all perish.
Rejoice, Thou who dost preserve cities and villages from sudden earthquakes.
Rejoice, Thou who dost lead us out with Thy strong arm from flood and drowning.
Rejoice, Thou who by the dew of Thy prayers dost deliver us from the kindling of fire.
Rejoice, Thou who dost provide against hunger of soul and body by the Bread of Life.
Rejoice, Thou who dost lead away from our heads the blows of lightening and thunder.
Rejoice, Thou who dost save us from the attacks of strangers and secret murderers.
Rejoice, Thou who dost guard us with peace and love against family quarrels and enmities of those of our own blood.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 10: Wishing to save mankind from the error of the enemy, the Lord Who lovest mankind gave us on earth Thee His Mother to be our help, protection and defence, for Thee to be the Comforter of those that sorrow, the Joy of the afflicted, the Defender of the injured, and to raise all from the depth of sin, singing: Alleluia!
Ikos 10: “O King of Heaven”, spoke the all-pure Queen in prayer as She stood with the angels, “do Thou accept every man praying to Thee and calling upon my name for help, that he go not away from my face empty and unheard.” Hearing this most good supplication, the assemblies of the saints cried in thanksgiving:
Rejoice, Thou who crownest with blessed fruits the husbandman pure in hand and heart.
Rejoice, Succour and righteous Rewarder for all those who honestly trade.
Rejoice, Reprover before all nations of those who keep not their oaths and whose gains are unjust.
Rejoice, unexpected Helper of those in distress in travels by land and water.
Rejoice, Thou who makest childless couples glad with the fruits of faith and spirit.
Rejoice, unseen Tutor of motherless orphans.
Rejoice, strong Defender of those in captivity and exile.
Rejoice, ever-watchful Guardian of those sitting in bonds and prison.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 11: Hearing a most moving song and attending to Thy prayer for us, we beg Thee, O Virgin Theotokos, look not away from the voices of Thy servants for we run to Thee in assaults and affliction and in our distress we pour out our tears before Thee, crying: Alleluia!
Ikos 11: Seeing Thee in the air inside the Blachernae Church burning in prayer as a candle aflame with light, I gave voice together with a multitude of people there present: “how can this be that the Mother of my Lord has come to me?” And Saint Andrew with Epiphanios prayed warmly to Thee, crying:
Rejoice, abundant Giver of all spiritual and bodily gifts.
Rejoice, true Advocate of sinners who have started to repent.
Rejoice, perpetual Champion of those fighting with enemy passions and intents.
Rejoice, invisible Tamer of cruel and bestial masters.
Rejoice, secret Rest and Consolation of humble and suffering servants.
Rejoice, most longed-for Fulfiller of blessed marriages.
Rejoice, swift and painless relief of mothers in childbirth.
Rejoice, our only Help in the hour of death.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil
Kontakion 12: Ask Thy Son to give us divine grace; stretch towards us a helping hand; ward off from us every enemy and adversary and give our lives peace that we perish not grievously, without repentance, but accept us, O our Protector, in the eternal mansions, that, rejoicing we may cry to Thee: Alleluia!
Ikos 12: Singing the praises of Thy mighty protection, we praise Thee for Thou art to us all our firm Advocate and we venerate Thee who dost pray for us: for we believe and we trust that Thou wilt beg of Thy Son and God eternal and temporal good things for all who cry thus to Thee with love:
Rejoice, strong Defence of the whole inhabited earth.
Rejoice, sanctification of all the earthly and heavenly elements.
Rejoice, Thou Blessing of all the seasons of the year.
Rejoice, Thou Conqueror of all assaults and temptations that come from the world, the flesh and the devil.
Rejoice, unhoped for Reconciliation of those who are at daggers drawn.
Rejoice, Amendment without their knowledge of unrepentant sinners.
Rejoice, Thou who dost not turn away those despised and forsaken by all.
Rejoice, Thou who dost pluck from the pit of destruction those that indeed despair.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 13: O all-praised Mother, Most pure Lady, Virgin, Theotokos, to Thee do I lift up the eyes of my soul and body, to Thee do I stretch forth my hands grown feeble and I cry from the depth of my heart: look down on the faith and humility of my soul; shelter me with Thy almighty protection, that I be saved from all assault and distress, and in the hour of my death, be by me, O Thou all-blessed, and deliver me from the torment prepared for me because of my sins, that venerating Thee, I may ever cry: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! (Thrice)
Ikos 1: Archangels and angels with John the Forerunner, John the Theologian and the choir of all the saints, were present with Thee, their Queen, in the Church of the Blachernae and hearing Thy moving supplication for all the world, they cried out with wonder as follows:
Rejoice, O pre-eternal good will of God the Father Who has no beginning of days.
Rejoice, timeless and most pure one who contained God the Son.
Rejoice, Thou chosen dwelling-place of God the all-Holy Spirit.
Rejoice, Thou never ceasing wonder of the angelic hosts on high.
Rejoice, Thou all-threatening terror of the dark forces of hell.
Rejoice, Thou whom the many-eyed cherubim meet in the air.
Rejoice, Thou to whom the six-winged seraphim ascribe praises.
Rejoice, Thou whose most precious veil we born on earth thankfully venerate.
Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.
Kontakion 1: O Chosen by the Pre-Eternal God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, higher than all creation, who hast in days past entered praying into the Church of the Blachernae we, offering Thee with thanksgiving due veneration, flee with faith and compunction under Thy shining vestment for we lie in darkness. And as Thou who hast invincible power dost set us free from every affliction that we may cry to Thee: Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious veil.
Ode VII, Irmos: The divinely wise would not worship a created thing instead of the Creator, but, manfully trampling the threat of the fire underfoot, they rejoiced, chanting: O all-hymned Lord God of our fathers, blessed art Thou!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
O Virgin, thou wast not described by the many prophets and wast also unknown to the angels of heaven who minister to God; but now we all know thee to be the Theotokos, and require thy help and aid, O blessed one.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
O Virgin Theotokos, thou mountain curdled by the Spirit which Habbakuk saw pouring forth the sweetness of healing upon the faithful, heal us who cry out to thy Son: Blessed is the God of our fathers!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
He Who bowed down the heavens made His abode within thee, O Virgin, and now regardeth thy supplication, fulfilling thy petitions, O pure Queen and Theotokos. To Him do thou now earnestly pray, for we place our hope in thee, O blessed one.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Christ God, our Creator and Saviour, accept the entreaty of Thy Mother, which she offereth to Thee for us sinners, that, rejoicing, we may chant to Thee: O all-hymned God of our fathers, blessed art Thou!
Ode VIII, Irmos: The birth giving of the Theotokos saved the pious children in the furnace – then in figure, but now in deed, – and it moveth the whole world to chant to Thee: Hymn the Lord, O ye works, and exalt Him supremely for all ages!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
With the ranks of the angels, the honourable and glorious prophets, the preeminent apostles, the hieromartyrs and holy hierarchs, O Mistress, pray thou to God for us sinners who glorify the feast of thy protection in this land.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
Cast down pride and arrogance, scatter the councils of unjust princes, and destroy those who instigate wars, O Mother of God, most honoured Queen! And exalt the horn of our Orthodox hierarchs, that we may glorify thy feast, O all-pure Virgin Theotokos, crying: Hymn the Lord, ye works, and exalt Him supremely for all ages!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Offering thee hymnody with our mouths, we bow down before thee spiritually with our souls; for our hearts burn within us. O all-pure Mother of God, have mercy upon us who pray to thee, who hymn the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
I have been weighed down by many sins, and am at a loss how to write in praise of thy protection, O Theotokos; but as thou art the Mother of God, adorn thy feast with miracles, that, rejoicing, we may all hymn the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages.
Ode IX, Irmos: Let every earthborn man leap up, enlightened by the Spirit; and let the nature of the incorporeal intelligences hold festival, honouring the sacred feast of the Mother of God, and let it cry aloud: Rejoice, O most blessed Theotokos, thou pure Ever-virgin!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
O exalted King Who sittest with the Father and art hymned by the seraphim: look down upon the supplication of Thy Mother, which she offereth to Thee for us sinners, and wash away our sins. Save this city and multiply the people. Grant health of body and victory over all adversaries to the Orthodox through the prayers of her who gave Thee birth.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us.
O divinely chosen Virgin, we cry out to thee with the voice of the angel: Rejoice, thou who hast led Adam back into paradise! Rejoice, thou who drivest the demons away with thy name! Rejoice, O hope of Christians! Rejoice, sanctification of souls! Rejoice, preserver of our city!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Remember us in thy supplications, O Virgin Lady and Theotokos, that we not perish because of the multitude of our sins. Protect us from all evil and grievous perils, for in thee do we place our trust, and, honouring the feast of thy protection, we magnify thee.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
As Mother of God, thou hast received from God the gift to heal the infirmities of all Christians, to deliver them from misfortunes, to forgive their sins and save them from captivity and all want. Disdain us not, O Lady, for thou knowest that we are in need of health for our bodies and salvation for our souls.
First Prayer: O all-holy Virgin, Mother of the Lord of the hosts on high, Thou Queen of heaven and earth and almighty Defender of our country, accept from us Thine unworthy servants this song of praise and thanksgiving and bring our prayer up to the throne of Thy God and Son, that He be merciful towards our unrighteousness, and extend His grace to those who honor Thy name and venerate with faith and love Thy wonder-working ikon. For we are not worthy to be forgiven by Him hadst Thou, O Lady, not made Him merciful towards us, for all things from Him are possible to Thee. Therefore we run to Thee as Thou art our swift and undoubted Protector. Hear us who pray to Thee: overshadow us with Thine almighty veil and ask from Thy God and Son zeal and vigilance for our shepherds, wisdom and strength for the souls of those who govern our cities, righteousness and impartiality for our judges, understanding and humility for our leaders, love and concord for the married, obedience for our children, patience for those who have been offended, the fear of God for those that offend, stoutheartedness for the afflicted, restraint for those that rejoice, and for all of us the spirit of understanding and godliness, the spirit of mercy and meekness, the spirit of chastity and truth. Yea, O all-holy Lady, be merciful towards Thy feeble people: gather together the dispersed, guide on the right way those that have gone astray, uphold old age, make the young pure, bring up the children and look down upon all of us with the care of Thy merciful protection. Raise us from the depth of sin and enlighten the eyes of our hearts to see salvation. Be merciful to us both here and yonder, during our wandering in the land of this earth and at the Last Judgement of Thy Son: and make our fathers and brothers who have departed this life live the eternal life with the angels and all the saints. For Thou, O Lady, art the glory of those in heaven and the trust of those on earth. After God, Thou art the hope and Defender of all who flee to Thee with faith. We then pray to Thee and to Thee as our almighty Helper, do we commend ourselves and one another, now and for ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Second Prayer: O my most blessed Queen, my all-holy hope, Receiver of orphans and Defender of the strangers, Helper of those in poverty, Protector of the sick, behold my distress, behold my affliction. On all sides am I held by temptation, and there is none to defend me. Help me then as I am weak, feed me as I am a pilgrim, guide me as I have strayed, heal and save me as I lie without hope. For I have no other help, nor advocate nor comforter, save Thee, O Mother of all the afflicted and heavy laden. Look down then on me, a sinner lying in sickness, and protect me with Thine all-holy Veil, that I be delivered from all the ills surrounding me and may ever praise Thy Name that all men sing. Amen.
Troparion, Tone 4: Overshadowed by thy coming, O Mother of God, * we, the right faithful people, celebrate today with splendour, * and gazing upon thy most precious image, we cry aloud with compunction: * Cover us with thy precious omophorion, * and deliver us from all evil, * entreating thy Son, Christ our God, ** that He save our souls.
It was lovely to see that the Mother of God was greeted and honoured with so many flowers, and their remaining presence in the Oratory Church now is a testimony to the love of the faithful for the Theotokos.
Our gratitude must especially be directed to the Oratorians, especially to Brother Francis Xavier, who stayed up very late, as we did not lock up and leave St Alban’s until after midnight. May the blessing of the Mother of God give him and his brethren strength.
Dear brothers and sisters,
Dear Fathers, brothers and sisters,
Dear brothers and sisters, 
Dear brothers and sisters,