Monday Evening Compline: Supplicatory Canon in Tone VIII

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

Ode I, Irmos: Having passed through the water as upon dry land, * and having escaped the malice of the Egyptians, * the Israelites cried aloud: * Unto our God and Redeemer let us sing.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

We all know thee to be the Theotokos, a wellspring of the waters of prayer, gushing forth in streams upon the souls and bodies of the faithful; wherefore, we unceasingly glorify thee.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

In a manner transcending nature didst thou give birth to the Word Whose origin is in God (the Father), О Virgin, and hast thereby delivered nature from corruption; wherefore, free me from irrational and unnatural passions.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Fields of carnal passions now surround me and grievously vex me; speedily visit thy servant, О Virgin, and save me from those who afflict me.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

He Who sustaineth, upholdeth and saveth all creation hath appeared, circumscribed, in thine arms, О pure one, and hath restored the race of mankind.

Ode III, Irmos: O Lord, thou art the confirmation of those who flee to Thee, * Thou art the Light of those in darkness, * and my spirit doth hymn Thee.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Quell thou the turmoil of the grievous affliction which now beset me, О most pure Lady, and free me from my transgressions and passions.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Ineffable is the abyss of thy compassions, О most pure one. Thereby do thou deliver me from transgressions and infirmities.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Haste thou, О most pure one, and visit me who am infirm, and deliver me from grievous illness and every sorrow.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Magnify the mercy and aid of thy prayers upon me, О most pure one, and deliver me from perils and tribulations.
on me.

Ode IV, Irmos: O Lord, I have heard the mystery of Thy dispensation; * I have
considered Thy works, * and I have glorified Thy Divinity.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О most pure one, ever show the remembrance of the saints and the cleansing of transgressions to be the purification of my heart.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Grant me salvation of soul and body, О most immaculate one; impart healing to me who am sick, and deliverance from evils.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Set at naught the wiles of the evil demons and the uprisings of the passions, О most pure one, and grant strength to us who are sick.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

From thy womb hath the Sun of righteousness shone forth and illumined the world, О all-pure one. With His divine rays illumine me also.

Ode V, Irmos: O Light never-waning, * why hast Thou turned Thy face from me * and why hath the alien darkness surrounded me, * wretched though I be? * But do Thou guide my steps I implore Thee * and turn me back towards the light of Thy commandments.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

By thy birthgiving the bonds of death have been loosed and the might of corruption bound, О most holy and all-hymned Virgin; wherefore, quickly loose also the bonds of my transgressions and my heavy grief.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Deliver me from the wickedness of the demons and the malice of men, О Lady, and quickly heal the sickness of my soul and body, О thou who alone hast given birth to the Savior and Lord, the Physician of spirits and all flesh.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О most pure one, thee do I implore as the tongs which held the divine Coal: Utterly consume every passionate lust of thy servant and my grievous infirmities which are hard to bear, and do thou dry up the torrents of my grief.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О all-pure Lady, thy Son hath given thee as salvation for all who believe in Him and proclaim Him to be God manifestly incarnate from thee; wherefore, save me from divers misfortunes and tribulations.

Ode VI, Irmos: Cleanse me, O Savior, * for many are mine iniquities; * lead me up from the abyss of evils I pray Thee, * for unto Thee have I cried, * and Thou hast hearkened unto me, * O God of my salvation.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Look upon me with thy merciful eye, О Lady, and quickly deliver me from cruel infirmities, from every affliction and fall which now awaiteth me.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

By thy supplications, О most pure Lady, deliver me from mindlessly passionate behavior, from unseemly jealousy, from, all evil and the oppression of life.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

He Who hath created us took form within thee, О Virgin, delivering human nature from corruption; wherefore, By thy prayers deliver me from the temptations which beset me, О pure one.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Thou wast shown to be the most pure temple of God Whom naught can contain, О most pure Lady. By thy prayers show me to be a temple of His grace, and preserve me unharmed.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Sessional Hymn, Tone VIII: All we, the generations of mankind, * call thee blessed, * in that thou art the Virgin who alone among women * hast given birth without seed unto God in the flesh; * for the fire of the Godhead made its abode within thee, * and thou didst feed the Creator and Lord * with milk as an infant. * Wherefore, we, the race of mankind and of angels, * glorify thy birthgiving, * and together we cry out to thee: * Entreat Christ God to grant forgiveness of sins ** unto those who with faith worship thy most holy Offspring.

Ode VII, Irmos: The Children of Judaea, * who of old came to dwell in Babylon, * trampled underfoot the flame of the furnace * through their faith in the Trinity, * as they sang: ‘O God of our fathers, blessed art Thou.’

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.Grievous pangs have I found to be my reward, and, afflicted, I experience the pain of great illness; yet I entreat thee, О Theotokos: Help me, and quickly grant me health by thy prayers.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О blessed Virgin, refuge of all the faithful who sorrow, rescue me from all temptation and grief, and from the malice of those who envy me, and deliver me from sins and divers ailments.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О jar of beaten gold, from whence the life-creating Myrrh hath flowed forth upon the faithful: By thine aid, О pure Birthgiver of God, purge my soul and body of infirmities and the defilement of transgressions.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Unceasingly glorifying the Word Who with the Father and the Spirit is equally without beginning, and Who was ineffably born from thee, О Mother of God, we chant in praise: О God of our fathers, blessed art Thou!

Ode VIII, Irmos: In his wrath the Chaldean Tyrant made the furnace blaze, * with heat fanned sevenfold for the servants of God; * but when he perceived that they had been saved by a greater power * he cried aloud to the Creator and Redeemer; * ‘ye children bless, ye priests praise, * ye people, supremely exalt Him throughout all ages’.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

All of us who in faith have recourse to thine aid proclaim the magnitude of thy divers miracles, О Lady. Save me now from cruel infirmity, from pangs of soul and body, and show me to be healthy, that I may glorify Christ thy Son throughout the ages.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Of a sudden the winds of those who envy me have blown and the rivers of the wicked have grievously smitten the house of my mind, О pure Virgin; but repel the assault of all griefs as it were that of the mindlessly raging sea, and By thy prayers grant me stillness throughout all ages.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

He Who fashioned the clay body of man and instilled therein an immortal soul, took form within thee, О Virgin, and restored it. By thy prayers render Him well and kindly disposed toward me, and grant strength and speedy deliverance to all who sorrow.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Illumine with light those who ever glorify thee, О most pure one, for from thee shone forth the never-waning Light, and thou deliverest thy servants from the dark nocturnal treachery of the demons. Deliver me also from them, and By thy prayers save me from the evils which beset me.

Ode IX, Irmos: Saved by thee, O pure Virgin, * we confess thee to be truly the Theotokos, * and together with the choirs of the bodiless hosts * thee do we magnify.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Lift up the horn of the Church, О most pure one, grant might to the faithful over the heathen, and make firm the scepters of kingdoms.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Bring low those who have been exalted, vanquish the alien hordes which attack us, О pure Virgin, and free thy servants unharmed by them, О Maiden.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О only champion of the Orthodox Christians who glorify thee, By thy prayers quickly put to shame the weapon-bearing Moslems.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Grant understanding to the choirs of the faithful, О Virgin, strengthening them against enemies visible and invisible, and save them from all sorrow.

Weekly News – 1 July


Dear brothers and sisters,

Greetings to you all in the week of All Saints – our weekend services having celebrated the fruits of the Holy Spirit in the great company of the saints across the ages, whether of the Old Covenant or New Covenant. In the coming weeks, we look forward to the various local celebrations of the saints of the Orthodox homelands, as well as those of these isles.

As we begin July, the ordination of our Deacon draws nearer, and your prayers are asked for Fr Mark, Alla and Yuriy. The transport for the journey to London is now confirmed and we look forward to around thirty parishioners celebrating the altar-feast of the lower cathedral church, and being present for the ordination.

As I’ve already commented on Facebook and WhatsApp – I’m extremely happy to have been able to use the Oratory Church for prayers, services and confessions so much over the last few weeks.

The schedule will continue, with the akathist at 15:00 on Tuesdays, Vespers at 15:00 on Thursdays and any Saturdays when I do not need to be in Warminster or Cheltenham.

We usually chant our services simply, gathered before the holy icons or the relics of St Alban, and sometimes have a little vocal competition with Saturday baptisms, but it is a blessing to offer the services of the Church on behalf of all.

Next week, there will be weekday services at 15:00 on Tuesday 2 July, Thursday 4 July and Saturday 6 July.

Thursday will be the eve of the feast of St Alban (and the summer feast of the Kursk Root icon), so Great Vespers will be offered before the enshrined portion of the Protomartyr’s relics.

The following week, there will be weekday services on Tuesday 9 July and Thursday 11 July at 15:00 – Thursday being the eve of the feast of St Peter and Paul.

The festal Liturgy will be celebrated in the Oratory Church on Friday morning (12 July) at 10:30. Our Ascension Liturgy proved how well the Sacred Heart chapel suits Orthodox services, and we look forward to regular feast day Liturgies.

If parishioners wish to use the church hall for refreshments, we will have shrine prayers before the relics of St Alban, and venerate them after lunch.

The following morning, Saturday 13 July, will see the Liturgy for the Synaxis of the Holy Apostles celebrated in Warminster, where our Cardiff parishioners living in Wessex will gather in the Chapel of St Lawrence for the Hours and Liturgy at 10:30. As our newly-ordained priest, will be in London for the days after his ordination, there will be no Cheltenham Liturgy the following weekend.

I will be available to hear confessions in St Alban’s on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons, after vespers, this week – and already have a request for a Thursday evening confession in Nazareth House. So, Thursday afternoon confessions will be in the Oratory Church, and evening confessions in Nazareth House for those who wish to take advantage of the Sister’s hospitality. As I will be there, compline will be chanted after confessions, at 19:00.

We very much look forward to celebrating the Nativity of St John the Baptist next Sunday, and the variables for the Liturgy may be found at:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1POaQM4A-ZDAWlEocXTGnYvAvaXhhGJIg/view

We will also celebrate the memory of St Calogero the Hermit, whose icon was gifted to us by iconographer-priest, Efraim Augello and matushka Olympiada in Sicily.

Your prayers are asked for Masha’s aunt, Nataliya, as she returns home to Kiev. It was a joy for the Cardiff Wessex parishioners to pray with her and have supper on Porphyrios’s narrow boat last Monday, and it has been a joy having her as part of our community whilst she has been in Britain.

We also ask your prayers for the repose of the soul of Masha’s young pupil, Aurelia, who fell asleep in the Lord last Thursday, at the tender age of eight years. May the Lord remember her in his Kingdom. We continue to pray for the souls of the martyred Archpriest Nikolia and the martyred Mikhail, and for Anatoliy and Svetlana. Memory Eternal!

May God bless and protect you and our community.

Asking your forgiveness for Christ’s sake.

Hieromonk Mark

Sunday Evening Compline: Supplicatory Canon in Tone VIII

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

Ode I, Irmos: The wonderworking staff of Moses, * striking and dividing the sea in the figure of a cross, * once drowned Pharaoh the pursuing charioteer, * while it saved the fleeing people of Israel * as they fled on foot, * chanting a hymn unto God.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Most glorious things have been said of thee, О most pure one, who alone art the glory of the faithful; wherefore, By thy prayers show me, who glorify thee, to be a partaker of the glory which is to come, О most holy and all-hymned Virgin.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, О all-pure and blessed one, whereby all of us mortals have been delivered from the curse. О the ineffable wonder, the indescribable report, the salvation of the all the faithful!

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

A multitude of angels, the assembly of the disciples and prophets, the company of the martyrs and Thy venerable ones ever entreat Thee, О Lord. For the sake of the Theotokos grant us forgiveness of sins, in that Thou lovest mankind.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

With faith I entreat thee, the most pure one, who received in thy womb the unbearable Fire, that I may be delivered and rescued from the fire of Gehenna, and by thy right acceptable prayers may be freed from everlasting torment.

Ode III, Irmos: O Lord, Creator of the vault of Heaven * and Builder of the Church, * do Thou strengthen me in Thy love, O Summit of desire, * O Support of the faithful, * O only Lover of mankind.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having fallen away from a life of purity, О most pure one, I have become like the dumb beasts and am wholly condemned. О thou who hast given birth to the Judge, deliver and save me from all damnation.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О pure Maiden, grant me groaning, spiritual tears and constant compunction, that I may weep over the passions which beset me due to mine indifference, О thou who art full of the grace of God.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

The ranks of heaven, the ministering spirits, the assembly of prophets and apostles, and Thy martyrs unceasingly beseech Thee, О Compassionate One: Grant remission of sins unto Thy people.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

As thou art merciful, О most pure one, do thou now entreat Him Who is full of loving-kindness, that He grant unto us divine and tender compassion; for having unmercifully acquired unmerciful ways, I have become worthy of everlasting fire.
on me.

Ode IV, Irmos: Thou, O Lord, art my strength and Thou art my power, * Thou art my God and Thou art my joy, * Thou Who, while never leaving the bosom of Thy Father, * hast visited our poverty. * Therefore, with the Prophet Habbakuk I cry unto Thee, * ‘Glory to Thy power, O Lover of mankind!’

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Rend asunder the record of my wicked sins with the divine spear which pierced the divine side of Him Who desired to become a man through thee, О most pure one, and entreat Him to write me in the Book of the Saved, even though I have foolishly estranged myself from Him.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Let me glorify thee with cries of thanksgiving, let me magnify thee with divine love, О most immaculate one. О thou who by thy great birthgiving hast exalted all who have estranged themselves, grant divine forgiveness unto me who have greatly estranged myself and have fallen grievously.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

In thee were the laws of nature overcome; for in a manner transcending nature thou hast given birth to God the Word. Wherefore, I entreat thee with faith, О most immaculate one: By thy prayers save and convert me who have sinned greatly, surpassing human nature, and have gone far away from God.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

With the arrows of sin the enemy hath wounded my soul; and hath defiled my heart with lusts, and drawn me away from the straight path. Wherefore, I cry to thee, О Virgin: Turning me, heal and save me.

Ode V, Irmos: O Light never-waning, * why hast Thou turned Thy face from me * and why hath the alien darkness surrounded me, * wretched though I be? * But do Thou guide my steps I implore Thee * and turn me back towards the light of Thy commandments.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Generations of generations now bless thee, the ever-blessed one, and the hosts of heaven praise thee as the one who hath united those below with those on high, the only one blessed among women, the restoration of fallen Adam.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О good one who hast given birth to the Word, beseech the Good One Who hath delivered us from irrationality, that I may remain whole, may attain an unshakable disposition, and may journey well, doing those things which are pleasing unto God.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О Word Who didst shed Thine own blood upon the Cross in the surpassing depths of Thy mercy, dry up the abyss of my passions, and for the sake of the Theotokos grant that I may please Thee, my God, in humility.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О Virgin Mother and Maiden, who hast given birth to the Infinite One in the flesh, the glory of the angels and the wounding of the demons: Grant divine healing unto my heart which hath been wounded by sin, О Bride of God.

Ode VI, Irmos: Cleanse me, O Saviour, * for many are mine iniquities; * lead me up from the abyss of evils I pray Thee, * for unto Thee have I cried, * and Thou hast hearkened unto me, * O God of my salvation.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

In thee hath human nature found mercy, О merciful Lady; for thou hast given birth to the Merciful One, О most pure one. Wherefore, I beseech thee: Have mercy upon my soul!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The ranks of the incorporeal beings, of the martyrs, prophets and Thine apostles, entreat Thee, О Christ: For the sake of her who gave birth to Thee, save Thy people from every evil circumstance.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О unploughed earth who gavest rise to the Husbandman and Creator of all, through divine understanding show forth as fertile my soul which hath been rendered hard and stony by the passions.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

I have violated the commandments which lead me to God, and without desiring it, have become enslaved to wicked passions; wherefore, I entreat thee, О Ever-Virgin: Rescue me from their dominion.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Sessional Hymn, Tone VIII: О ye faithful, let us praise the Virgin Mother and Maiden, the object of the veneration of the heavenly hosts and the all-praised exaltation of our souls: Rejoice, О thou who didst conceive the Creator of the angels in thy womb! Rejoice, cleansing of those who fall, who gavest flesh to God the Word! Rejoice, thou Bride unwedded!

Ode VII, Irmos: Once in Babylon the fire stood in awe * of God’s condescension; * for which sake the youths in the furnace, * dancing with joyous steps as in a meadow, chanted: * O God of our fathers, Blessed art Thou!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

By thine ineffable birthgiving thou hast granted unto us ineffable things, О Theotokos; wherefore, deliver me from terrifying torment, and fill me with ineffable joy, that I may ever hymn thee who art all-hymned.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having wasted my life in slothfulness, I have become barren, and I fear the interrogation and unquenchable fire of Gehenna. О Theotokos who hast given birth to the unbearable Fire, By thy prayers persuade Him to deliver me.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

The miracle of thy birthgiving surpasses all wonders, О pure Virgin; wherefore, I cry unto thee, О Birthgiver of God: Show forth upon me the wonders of thy mercies; deliver me from the coming wrath, and save me.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О Christ my Saviour, for the sake of her who gave birth to Thee have pity on me who have lived in slothfulness and have spurned Thy holy laws and Thine honoured precepts, in that Thou art a beneficent and greatly merciful God,

Ode VIII, Irmos: In his wrath the Chaldean Tyrant made the furnace blaze, * with heat fanned sevenfold for the servants of God; * but when he perceived that they had been saved by a greater power * he cried aloud to the Creator and Redeemer; * ‘ye children bless, ye priests praise, * ye people, supremely exalt Him throughout all ages’.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Give life to my soul, for it is dying; raise it up, for it hath fallen; heal it, for it hath been wounded. Grant peace to my mind; still thou the waves of temptations, О Virgin; and save me who cry aloud: Ye children bless; ye priests hymn; ye people supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Like the thief I cry out to Thee: Have mercy on me, О Lover of mankind! Like the harlot, I weep and cry aloud: I have sinned like the prodigal of old! For the sake of the Theotokos accept me, a wretched penitent, that with zeal I may cry out to Thee: Ye children bless; ye priests hymn; ye people supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

As befitteth a servant, I cry out to thee, О all-hymned Theotokos: With the countless noetic hosts, with the prophets and the venerable, the apostles and the martyrs, make entreaty for all those who chant in a godly manner: Ye children bless; ye priests hymn; ye people supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О all-immaculate Theotokos, thou art more honourable than the angelic ranks of heaven, for through thy virginal womb which knew not wedlock thou hast given birth to their Creator and Lord in two natures, without commingling or change, incarnate in a single Hypostasis, О Theotokos.

Ode IX, Irmos: Every ear is awestruck at hearing of God’s ineffable condescension, * for the Most High voluntarily descended and assumed flesh, * becoming man in the Virgin’s womb; * wherefore, we the faithful magnify the most pure Theotokos.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О divine couch of Solomon, upon which God hath rested, and who art now surrounded by sixty mighty utterances from the divine Scriptures: By thy power, О pure Ever-virgin, preserve me unharmed, who am ever surrounded by myriads of demons.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О thou who pourest forth divine sweetness, О thou who hast given birth to the Sweetness of all, sweeten thou my soul which hath become bitter through the venom of the serpent, by thy mediation ever remove bitter harm from me, О unashamed intercessor for the faithful.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О Jesus, thou Sun of glory, enlighten my wretched soul through the prayers of the pure divine Maiden who gave birth to Thee, of the incorporeal ministers, Thine honoured apostles, the holy hierarchs and prophets, Thy chosen martyrs and the venerable.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Wholly condemned and at a loss what to do, I fear Thy dread second coming, only King and Lord; wherefore, before the end I cry unto Thee: For the sake of her who gave birth to Thee take pity upon me and save me, О Merciful and Good One Who lovest mankind.

Saturday Evening Compline: Supplicatory Canon in Tone VIII

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

Ode I, Irmos:  Let us sing unto the Lord, * who led His people through the Red Sea: * for He alone hath gloriously been glorified.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Come, О ye faithful brethren, and let us mystically offer a new hymn to the holy Theotokos, praising her mighty works today as from the beginning.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Of old Moses, illumined in mind by divine vision, clearly learned of thy divine conceiving which transcendeth nature, О Virgin, and which was revealed to him in the bush.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Unto thee do I offer up the works of my heart, and to thee I offer in an acceptable manner these writings, setting thee before Christ the Master as intercessor, in that thou art close to the divine shelter of aid.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О pure one, incline thine ear unto me who with Orthodox Faith and love devoutly hastens to thee in the tabernacle of thy countenance, worshiping thee with fear. Hearken thou to my cry of supplication.

Ode III, Irmos: O Lord, Thou art the confirmation of those who flee to Thee, * Thou art the Light of those in darkness, * and my spirit doth hymn Thee.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The patriarch’s ladder of old prefigured thee, О most immaculate one; for the angels’ descent revealed to us the divine descent of God into thy womb.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The tribe of Judah rejoiced, as Jacob foretold, for from his tribe budded forth the one who would cause Jesus Christ, our Deliverance, to bud forth. Having given birth to Him, О most pure one, thou hast been glorified.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

In despair over my sins, I have found thee to be a refuge of salvation, О most pure Theotokos, our hope and aid; wherefore, guide me to repentance.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

I have thee near the Master, О most glorious Lady, and with faith have entrusted to thee the book of my deeds. Cease thou never to take pity on me.

Ode IV, Irmos: From the overshadowed mountain, * from the only Theotokos, * the Prophet in divine vision * foresaw Thy coming in the flesh, O Word, * and with fear he glorified Thy power.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having received grace and been adorned with the beauty of virginity, thou wast likened to the Bride of the Father, adorned with golden coins, and revealed to be the Mother of the Son of God.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Christ the Word was pleased to make thee, the true Sion, a divine habitation for Himself, О Theotokos, choosing thee as His elect, for the restoration of the whole world.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Rejoice, О beauteous palace of the Word, virginal bridal-chamber of the King! Rejoice, О boast of all the bodiless ones! Rejoice, O help of all mankind.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

They who reject the icons of thy Son, О Virgin Theotokos, Mother of God, withdraw from God, and therefore perish; but those who honour thee are saved by the same images.

Ode V, Irmos: Disperse, O Word, the darkness from my soul, * O Christ God, the Light-Giver, * Having driven out the primordial darkness of the abyss, * grant unto me the light of Thy commandments, * that early in the morning I may glorify Thee.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Joining the divine Gabriel, let us cry aloud to the Theotokos with faith: Rejoice, О holy Virgin who art full of grace! The Lord is with thee Who, having put an end to grief on thine account, hath given us joy.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Gideon beheld thy most pure womb, О pure Virgin, wherein the Word, Who is inseparable from the divinity of the Father, became incarnate through the divine Spirit, descending like rain.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Thou art the helper of the world and an aid of the sinful, О Virgin Birthgiver of God; and for those who with faith and love have recourse unto thee thou art the saving deliverance and the absolution of many transgressions.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

By the divine Spirit thou gavest rise without seed to the Son, the Offspring of the Father, Who existed before all creation, timeless and unoriginate, О pure Birthgiver of God, and we all honour the likeness of His visage.

Ode VI, Irmos: Held fast by a multitude of sins O Lover of mankind, * like the Prophet I fall down before Thy tender compassions. * Accept me O Lord and save me.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О unwedded Virgin, with hymns we praise thee as the mirror of virginity and the pure receptacle of the Godhead.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

In an awesome and dispassionate manner God became incarnate within thy womb, О Bride of God, written, as it were, by the finger of the Father on a new scroll.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Thy protection do we have as cleansing, excellent hope and aid, О pure Virgin. О Lady, put not thy servants to shame!

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

By thy mediation, О Bride of God, reduce the never-ending mayhem of the passions to stillness, and guide us to the haven of tranquility.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

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!

Ode VII, Irmos: Once in Babylon the fire stood in awe * of God’s condescension; * for which sake the youths in the furnace, * dancing with joyous steps as in a meadow, chanted: * O God of our fathers, Blessed art Thou!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Thou hast been revealed to be the mediatress of our joy, О Virgin, and offering thee a crown of grace with love, and praising thee we cry aloud: “Rejoice, О pure and blessed one!”.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Thou art the holy mountain of God overshadowed, the rich mountain, О most immaculate one, the mountain rendered fertile by divine effulgence, the mountain wherein God was pleased to dwell.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

No sin is too great for thy grace; for thou hast a mother’s boldness and will, and by thy prayers thou dost loose transgressions, leading us safely through all assaults.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О Theotokos, thou hast given birth to One of the Trinity Who, by uniting Himself to the flesh, remained immutable, being of two natures, wherefore we venerate the image of His countenance.

Ode VIII, Irmos: Glorified in the holy mountain, * the Lord revealed the mystery of the Ever-Virgin unto Moses * in the flames of the burning bush: * praise ye and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Thou wast revealed to the prophet as the censer bearing the divine Coal Who taketh away sins, О Virgin Theotokos, Mother of our God.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Daniel foresaw thee as a great mountain, О Virgin Theotokos, from whence Christ, the precious Stone, arrayed Himself in the flesh and brought down the temples of the falsehood of idolatry.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

The great sea-monster of grievous sin and the despair of my passions seek to slay me; but do thou anticipate my need, and save thy servant, О Lady.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

The God of all, Who through thee came to converse with mortals, assumed the guise of a man, wherefore we venerate His countenance in icons, О Virgin.

Ode IX, Irmos: Saved by thee, O pure Virgin, * we confess thee to be truly the Theotokos, * and together with the choirs of the bodiless hosts * thee do we magnify.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

With songs the most wise one hymneth thee as the enclosed garden and the fountain sealed by the divine Spirit, О Virgin Theotokos; wherefore, Christ became incarnate within thee as the Tree of life.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Describing thine ineffable birthgiving beforehand, the prophet foresaw thee as a sealed book, and the mystery of the incarnation of thine offspring remaineth incomprehensible.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

In compunction of soul we all beseech thee: О Lady, disdain not our supplications, but be thou our compassionate protectress, and hearken unto our prayer.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

I fall down before the images of thee and thy Son, О Virgin Theotokos, but those who refuse to venerate them I reject, as I do the deception of Manes; wherefore, in an Orthodox manner I complete my hymnody.

Friday Evening Compline: Supplicatory Canon in Tone VII

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

Ode I, Irmos: At thy command O Lord, * the nature of the waters that beforehand flowed freely was transformed * and became like the earth; * whereby Israel having traversed them dryshod * chanted unto Thee a hymn of victory.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О Lady Theotokos, from misfortunes, from sorrows and falls, from everlasting fire and torment, deliver those who place their trust in thee and have recourse unto thee.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

With the dew of thy loving-kindness, О pure Virgin, quench the flame of my falls, lest I come condemned at the trial of all, and receive everlasting fire.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О Virgin, rain down the drops of thy loving-kindness upon me who am ever withered up by the burning heat of lusts, that I may unceasingly glorify our God and Saviour Who was born from thee.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

With the water of thy supplication, О Virgin, give drink to my soul, which is burning up with the heat of grief, that I may offer the fruits of divine gladness unto Him Who was born from thee.

Ode III, Irmos: O Lord and Saviour, * Who in the beginning established the heavens * by Thine all-powerful Word , * and by the divine and all-accomplishing Spirit * hath granted them all their strength, * do Thou establish me on the unshakeable rock of Thy confession.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Thee do I entreat, О Virgin: Grant to my soul salvation, purification and abundant grace, in that thou art mighty and good; and as thou art the Maiden who lovest mankind, grant unto us life incorruptible.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О pure Virgin who hast given birth to the Creator, thou true salvation and intercession for the world: From misfortunes, the perils of life and eternal damnation deliver those who hymn thee with faith.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

We earnestly entreat thy compassion, О Maiden: Disdain not thy lowly servants, but, as thou art good, look upon us with thy merciful eye, and deliver us from the constant tyranny of the devil.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

I am overcome by an excess of grief, О Virgin. All my strength hath grown weak, and I lie outstretched upon the ground. Yet I cry to thee from the depths of my soul: Raise me up again, and strengthen me by thy consolation.

Ode IV, Irmos: Having never left the bosom of the Father, * Thou didst descend to earth O Christ God, * I have heard of the mystery of Thy dispensation, * and I have glorified Thee, * O only Lover of mankind.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О Mother of God, deliver me from corruption and the tyranny of the wicked serpent who ever assailest me, tripping me on the path toward God.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О noetic portal of Life, open unto me the portals of repentance, for, wretch that I am, I have now drawn nigh unto the gates of despair through my many offences.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Shaking off the mire of the passions and lusts well, О most holy one, in thy loving-kindness show me forth as pure, and clothe me in a vesture of radiant grace.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Having washed away the defilement of my soul and the impurity of my body with thy right-acceptable prayers, О pure one, set me forth as pure, that I may ever hymn and glorify thee.

Ode V, Irmos: Night is bereft of light * for those without faith, О Christ, * but for the faithful there is enlightenment * in the sweetness of Thy words; * wherefore, I rise early unto Thee * and hymn Thy Divinity.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О all-immaculate Virgin, entreat the supremely good Word, that we be saved; for we have acquired thee as an ally and a mighty aid in need.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О pure one, abandon me not to the enemy who greatly seeks my destruction because of my sins, but rescue me from all harm in thy loving-kindness.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Knowing Thee to be the God and Creator of all, О Christ, we have placed all our hope of salvation in Thee, Who didst become a man for our sake.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Rejoice, О pure one, thou cloud pouring forth the Water of life! Rejoice, О Virgin, thou confirmation of the martyrs and apostles! Rejoice, О most immaculate one, thou glorification of honour!

Ode VI, Irmos: Sailing in the tempest of the cares of life, * together with the ship I have been submerged by sins, * and cast to the soul-corrupting beast, * wherefore, like Jonah I cry to Thee, O Christ: * Lead me up from the deadly abyss.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The majesty and beauty of comeliness which I acquired through baptism, О Lady, I have lost by committing unseemly deeds. But by thy fervent intercession grant it to those who honour thee.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Deliver me from suffering, from violent assault and grief, О Theotokos, granting me thy consolation; for I, thy servant, have none other helper than thee, О all-immaculate one.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О most immaculate one who hast given birth to the Redeemer, Benefactor and Saviour, thou art possessed of might, and canst do whatsoever thou desirest. Wherefore, we, thy servants, beseech thee: Deliver us from the turmoil of the passions.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Enlightened of old by the Spirit, the Prophet Isaiah beheld thee as the light cloud whereon the Lord of glory sat. And He hath come and cast down all the graven images of Egypt, О most pure Virgin Mother.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Sessional Hymn, in Tone VII: From everlasting fire deliver those who worship thine Offspring; for Christ hath revealed thee to be a helper of all who hymn thee.

Ode VII, Irmos: Of old the Children were shown to be * bedewed in the fiery furnace, * chanting and praising the one God saying: * ‘Supremely exalted and exceedingly glorified is the God of our Fathers’.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

A multitude of sins surround me and drag me down into the corruption of perdition and despair, О Theotokos; but anticipate my need, and grant me saving aid.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Deliver me from all the malice of the enemy, from temptations and tribulation, О most pure one, and preserve my soul in peace and tranquility, that, rejoicing I may hymn thy power.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Foreseeing condemnation for my wicked deeds, wretch that I am, I cry out to thee from the depths of my heart: О most pure Lady, be thou my help, and save me!

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

With the martyrs, the angels and the apostles beseech thy Son and Lord, О all-immaculate one, that He save thy servants from perils, misfortunes and griefs.

Ode VIII, Irmos: Emulating the children who in the furnace * received the dew of the Spirit, * let us cry out with faith saying: * Bless the Lord, О ye works of the Lord!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О most holy Virgin, be thou a help unto me who flee to thee and cry out with faith: Have mercy, О pure one, and before the end grant me cleansing offences. At the hour of mine end grant me salvation, and after my repose give me rest.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Abject terror assaileth me when I consider the terrible testing, the impartial Judge, and the never-ending torments prepared for those who have done evil deeds, such as I have truly committed, wretch that I am. О Sovereign Lady of the world, be thou my salvation!

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О pure Birthgiver of God, thou champion of the faithful and cleansing of sinners, thou wellspring of all good and bestower of good things, who art the cause of salvation for mortals: Heal the pangs of my soul, and pour forth everlasting grace, glory and gladness.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О most pure one, the gift given to us by the Master the primal essence: Accept our entreaties as beautiful gifts, rendering unto us thy help, that we may unceasingly hymn the One Who was born from thee and supremely exalt Him throughout the ages.

Ode IX, Irmos: O Mother of God and Virgin, * thou hast given birth and yet remained a virgin, * not in accordance with nature, * but by the condescension of God; * wherefore, we ever magnify thee, * who alone wast deemed worthy * of the wonders of God.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

I have now fled to thy protection, О Virgin. Save me who am tempest-tossed by a multitude of transgressions and am perishing, О thou who hast given birth to the Saviour and Creator, and deliver me from eternal damnation.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О pure one, on our behalf entreat the Creator, God and Lord Who became incarnate from Thy most pure blood, that by thy loving-kindness He may take pity upon a despairing people.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

By thy fervent mediation before God deliver me from the unquenchable fire, from the outermost darkness and everlasting weeping, even though I am worthy of condemnation, О most holy and pure Theotokos.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Preserved by grace under thy protection, О Theotokos, I am not consumed by the assaults of the adverse foe; wherefore, I hymn, magnify and do homage unto thee as my divine confirmation and foundation.

Thursday Evening Compline: Supplicatory Canon in Tone VII

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

Ode I, Irmos: To God Who overthrew Pharaoh in the Red Sea * let us chant a hymn of victory, * for He hath been glorified.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Looking toward the impending end of my life, О Lady, I cry aloud: Grant me the cleansing of mine offences, О Bride of God.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Hastening to the abyss of Thy beneficence, I cry aloud: О good Lady, deliver me from all torment.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О Lady, accept us who flee to thee with faith, and grant us deliverance from perils and tribulations.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

In accordance with the prophecy thou hast restored the fallen tabernacle of Adam, О most pure one who didst bear God the Saviour in thy womb.

Ode III, Irmos: My heart hath been established in the Lord; * my horn hath been exalted in my God; * my mouth hath been enlarged over the enemy; * and I am gladdened in Thy salvation.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О most pure one who didst ineffably conceive God the Master, deliver and save me who am beset by the tempest of sin.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

With rays of repentance illumine me who am held fast in the night of unseemly offences, О Maiden, ever granting that I may become a child of the light.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О Theotokos who hast given birth to the Bread of heaven, feeding the hearts of all the faithful, fill thou my starving and passion-plagued soul.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Acknowledging thy divine birthgiving, I have been made steadfast, О Virgin, and, enriched by thy help, I cry out: Holy art Thou, О Lord Who savest our souls!

Ode IV, Irmos: I heard report of Thee * and became filled with fear; * I understood Thy works * and became filled with awe, O Lord.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Disdain me not, neither put me to shame for I earnestly groan and cry out to thee from the depths of my heart, О Lady.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Utterly consume the thorns which pierce my wretched soul, the lusts of the flesh, О Lady who hast given birth to the divine Fire.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Grant me remission offences, О most blessed and pure one, and deliver me from everlasting and terrible torment.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

The Word Who made His abode within thee, О most pure one, hath transformed my nature, which had fallen through disobedience.

Ode V, Irmos: My soul riseth unto Thee at dawn, O God, * for Thou art light, and Thy commandments * have become healing for Thy servants, * O Lover of mankind.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

I have made myself like unto the irrational beasts, utter wretch that I am, serving mine accursed flesh with irrational passions. But do thou, О Theotokos, grant that I may come to my senses.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Have mercy upon me who have sinned more than all mankind, and who flee to thy fervent protection, О Virgin Theotokos, and rescue me from torments.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

May those who confess thee to be the Theotokos, О Virgin Mother of God, be deemed worthy to receive through thee the kingdom and sustenance which pass not away.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О blessed and most glorious Mother who knewest not a man, grant life to my soul, which hath been slain by my sins and buried beneath unrestrained passions.

Ode VI, Irmos: Jonah cried out from the belly of Hades: * Lead my life up from corruption! * And we cry aloud unto Thee: * O almighty Saviour, have mercy on us!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The tempest of sin assails me, leading me into the corruption of despair, О Virgin; but extend unto me a firm and mighty helping hand.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Pour forth upon me the oil of the fervent loving-kindness which is within thee, О Lady, delivering me from offences and rescuing me from everlasting fire.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О Virgin Maiden who hast released Eve from pain by thy most pure birthgiving, release me also from the pain of the passions which assail my soul and body.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Thou dost hymn God Who was incarnate from thee, О pure and most immaculate Virgin Mother; and, gazing upon Him, thou dost lament Him Who was lifted up upon the Cross.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Sessional Hymn, in Tone VII: О pure one, the Fruit of thy womb hath planted the Cross in the ends of the earth and delivered the world from corruption; wherefore, we magnify thee, the most glorious one.

Ode VII, Irmos: Cast into the fiery furnace, * the venerable children transformed the fire into dew, * crying aloud thus in hymnody: * Blessed art Thou O Lord, the God of our fathers!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The threat of my manifold transgressions hath increased, О pure one, and, deserving condemnation, I fall down and cry unto thee: Before the end grant me cleansing, tears of compunction and the correction of my morals.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

In that thou hast given birth to the Life of all, О pure and most pure one, by thy divine works grant life unto me who am in sore distress because of my vile transgressions, and approach the grave in despair.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О good Birthgiver of God, delivering from spiritual death those who with faith call upon thine immortal grace, grant them the kingdom by thy most pure prayers.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

We glorify the unapproachable birthgiving of the Virgin, whereby we have been delivered from death; wherefore, reborn unto incorruption, we cry out: Blessed art Thou, О Lord God of our fathers!

Ode VIII, Irmos: The King of glory, who is alone without beginning, * Before Whom all the powers of heaven stand in awe * and the hosts of angels tremble: * O ye priests praise, and ye people * supremely exalt Him throughout the ages.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The furnace of the passions consumes me, О Virgin, and devours me with the fire of lusts; but, anticipating my need, quench it with the dew of thy mercy, imparting coolness unto my soul.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

I have defiled my soul and rendered my flesh corrupt through lust, wallowing therein. And I have become the mockery of all, and an object of ridicule unto the enemy. О Lady Theotokos, be thou my helper!

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Beseech God to Whom thou hast given birth, О Virgin, that He send down upon those who honour thee with faith salvation, release from misfortunes, speedy deliverance from grievous ailments, and eternal grace.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

The Lord, Who created Adam according to His image, having assumed his substance and abolished the primal curse, hymn ye, О priests, and supremely exalt Him throughout the ages!

Ode IX, Irmos: O all-hymned one, * who art higher in eminence than the heavens: * having seedlessly conceived the Unoriginate Word * thou hast given birth to the incarnate God for all mankind. * Wherefore, we all magnify thee.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О most radiant Virgin Mother and Theotokos, with the light of thy supplications do thou radiantly guide to the fear of God my wretched soul, which hath been grievously darkened by carnal pleasures.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Despairing of salvation because of the multitude of mine offences, I am at a loss, О all-holy Lady. Send down upon me thy benefactions and mercy.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Thy birthgiving, which transcendeth nature, О Theotokos, filleth the angels with wonder and mankind with awe; for it is ineffable and unapproachable to all. And hymning it, we piously glorify thee.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen

Thou hast stripped away my garments of mortality and corruption, О Virgin who for us gave birth to the incarnate Word, the robe of salvation. Wherefore, we all ever magnify thee.

Wednesday Evening Compline: Supplicatory Canon in Tone VII

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

Ode I, Irmos: At thy command O Lord, * the nature of the waters that beforehand flowed freely was transformed * and became like the earth; * whereby Israel having traversed them dryshod * chanted unto Thee a hymn of victory.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

With waters flowing with life, О Virgin, give drink to my soul which withereth away under the burning heat of sin, that I may produce the fruitful grain of godly compunction.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Rain down upon me drops of compunction, О pure Maiden, and with drops of compassion wash away all the defilement of my soul which hath come upon it through inattention.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Having taken thy Creator into thy womb, thou hast given birth unto Him without seed, and God became an infant. О strange wonder! Thou art both a handmaiden and mother, О Lady unwedded!

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О most pure Virgin Mother, thou hast given birth for us to Christ, the Redeemer of the race of mankind, our Liberator and Saviour; wherefore, knowing thee to clearly be the mediatress of eternal life, we glorify thee.

Ode III, Irmos: O Lord and Saviour, * Who in the beginning established the heavens * by Thine all-powerful Word , * and by the divine and all-accomplishing Spirit * hath granted them all their strength, * do Thou establish me on the unshakeable rock of Thy confession.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having dyed a purple robe – His body – in thy most pure blood, and put it on without assuming the corruption of nature, the King of all issued forth from thee as both God and man, О Virgin, possessed of immutable royalty.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

As a treasury of good and ineffable things given by God unto all, О Virgin, thou bestowest an abundance of grace and wondrous gifts upon us who pray to thee amid perils, misfortunes and infirmities.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Thee, О pure one, did the wondrous Daniel foresee as the mountain from whence Christ was cut, Who hath crushed the graven images of the demons. Wherefore, delivered by thy birthgiving, we hymn thee as the cause of all good things.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

The divinely eloquent one once foresaw thee as a scroll whereon the Word was writ by the finger of the Father, О pure one; wherefore, pray that He inscribe me in the Book of Life, rending asunder the evil record of my sins.

Ode IV, Irmos: Having never left the bosom of the Father, * Thou didst descend to earth O Christ God, * I have heard of the mystery of Thy dispensation, * and I have glorified Thee, * O only Lover of mankind.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Entreat Him Who was born from thee, О Theotokos, that we who glorify His sufferings may find help in the time of evil troubles.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The Author of nature, the Myrrh Who poured forth from thee, О most pure one, hath filled all things with sweet fragrance through divine understanding, and dispelling the fetor of falsehood.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Christ God hath set thee up as a noetic ladder for those on earth, О pure one, and by thee He leadeth the faithful up to divine and celestial works, in that He is full of loving-kindness.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Weighed down by the great burden of sin, О good one, I cry unto thee: Be thou my cleansing, О thou who hast given birth to Him Who taketh away the transgressions of the world!

Ode V, Irmos: Having risen at dawn out of the night, * I entreat Thee O Lord my God: * grant me the forgiveness of my sins, * and guide my steps to the light * of thy commandments, I pray Thee.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О Mother of God Who art the Lover of mankind, О all-hymned Theotokos, by thine entreaties send down the cleansing of sins upon me who ever praise thee with faith, love and hymns.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О most pure Theotokos, in that thou art the receptacle of the immutable Light and the temple of the divine Effulgence, with thy light illumine my darkened soul, I pray.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О Lord my God, Whose pleasure it was to become man, I entreat Thee: Be thou well-pleased to save me, a prodigal, for the sake of the pure and virgin Maiden who gave birth unto Thee in purity.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О Lady Mother of God, О most immaculate one who for the world hast given birth to the hypostatic Life, grant thou the forgiveness of my transgressions.

Ode VI, Irmos: Sailing in the tempest of the cares of life, * together with the ship I have been submerged by sins, * and cast to the soul-corrupting beast, * wherefore like Jonah I cry to Thee, O Christ: * Lead me up from the deadly abyss.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

By thy seedless birthgiving, О Theotokos, have we been delivered from the corruption of death and the sin of Adam; for thy Son, Who alone is both God and man, granteth to the faithful deliverance from offences.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Rend asunder the record of my transgressions, О Lady, through thy divine supplications recording me in the Book of the Saved, that in praise I may hymn thee, who art more holy than the cherubim.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

They who of old were cast from before Thy face by Thy righteous judgment, О Christ, hast Thou recalled by Thine advent in the flesh, in that Thou art full of tender compassion. And now, О Good One, accept us who have committed offense, and free us from evils.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О most pure Virgin, I entreat thee who hast given birth to the Benefactor and Cleansing of sinners: By thy maternal supplication cleanse the guilt of my countless transgressions, for thou hast the power so to do, as the Mother of thy Son.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Sessional Hymn, in Tone VII: Beneath thy protection do all mortals flee. Deliver our souls from the everlasting fire, О good one.

Ode VII, Irmos: Of old the Children were shown to be * bedewed in the fiery furnace, * chanting and praising the one God saying: * ‘Supremely exalted and exceedingly glorified is the God of our Fathers’.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

My mind, which is weighed down by sin, О all-immaculate one, do thou rouse unto good works, that I may bless thee who art more honourable than all creation.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

In the furnace the three young children prefigured thy birthgiving, for thou wast not consumed when thou didst give birth to Fire, О pure one; wherefore, consume now the tinder-like passions of my heart.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Perceiving thee to be beauteous and comely among women, the Lord became incarnate from thee; wherefore, entreat Him, О most holy Maiden, that He save me.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

The divine Dew which issued forth from thee, О most immaculate one, bedeweth those who have withered under the burning heat of sin; wherefore, I beseech thee: Bedew my soul which hath withered also.

Ode VIII, Irmos: Unconsumed by fire, the bush on Sinai spake unto Moses, * slow of speech and stammering, * and revealed God unto him; * and zeal for God showed forth the three children who chanted hymns * to be unvanquished by the fire. * O all ye His works, praise ye the Lord * and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

The bush which burned, yet was not consumed, and with which Moses the God-seer conversed with on Sinai, showed forth thy strange birthgiving, wherefore, marvelling at this, О pure one, he cried aloud, rejoicing: Hymn the Lord, all ye works of the Lord, and supremely exalt Him throughout the ages!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О pure Virgin who hast given birth to Life, grant life to my mind which hath been slain by sin, and by thy maternal pleas to God save me who ever chant: Hymn the Lord, all ye works of the Lord, and supremely exalt Him throughout the ages!

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

At night and during the day I have thee, О pure one, as my steadfast protector against foes visible and invisible, and I am in nowise daunted by their evil and wicked assaults, chanting: Hymn the Lord, all ye works of the Lord, and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Moved by His love for mankind, in that He is good, thy Son, О Theotokos, hath given thee as a help against the enemy and the healing of sufferings of those who cry: Hymn the Lord, all ye works of the Lord, and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!

Ode IX, Irmos: Conceiving without knowing corruption, * and lending thy flesh to the Word, * O Mother unwedded and Virgin Theotokos, * thou art the vessel of the Uncircumscribable One, * and dwelling place of thy Creator, * thee do we magnify.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having nourished as an infant Him Who as Creator sustaineth and sanctifieth the whole world, thou hast been revealed to be the Mother of the Almighty according to the flesh, the irremovable riches of virginity, О Virgin Theotokos, thou Bride who knewest not a man.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having given birth to the Word Who exceedingly loveth manking and taketh away the sin of the world, О Virgin, entreat Him to send down the remission of sins upon us who with unwavering faith bless thee as is meet.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

Enamoured of sin, I tremble in fear lest I suddenly reach the end of my life, О pure Lady, intercessor of all the oppressed. Wherefore, be thou now entreated, that thou strengthen me by examples of repentance.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen

Let me not be sent into the fire prepared for me, О most Compassionate and greatly Merciful One, for the Virgin who gave birth to Thee, together with the divine choir of the incorporeal hosts, the apostles, prophets, martyrs and holy hierarchs, and the souls of the righteous, ever beseech Thee.

Tuesday Evening Compline: Supplicatory Canon in Tone VII

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

Ode I, Irmos: At thy command O Lord, * the nature of the waters that beforehand flowed freely was transformed * and became like the earth; * whereby Israel having traversed them dryshod * chanted unto Thee a hymn of victory.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

With the serenity of thy divine prayer cause thou the tempest of my lusts and passions to cease, О most immaculate one, that with a calm heart I may glorify thine ineffable birthgiving.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

Through thine Offspring hath all desire and sweetness come to be, О Lady Theotokos, for He driveth away all the bitterness engendered by the passions and transgressions of thy servants.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.   

Deliver me from the delusion of the demons, from oppression, harm and temptation, О most pure one, that with faith I may glorify thee who, after God, art my helper and protection.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О Word of God, in the bush Thou didst reveal Thyself unto Moses, burning like fire, yet in nowise consuming it, showing forth an image of Thy nativity from the Virgin, through whom Thou didst assume human form.

Ode III, Irmos: O Lord and Saviour, * Who in the beginning established the heavens * by Thine all-powerful Word , * and by the divine and all-accomplishing Spirit * hath granted them all their strength, * do Thou establish me on the unshakeable rock of Thy confession.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

Earnestly entreat Him Who was lifted up upon the Cross and hath cast down Hades, О Theotokos, on behalf of those who ever faithfully hymn thee with sacred songs and hymns, О hope of the world and help of the faithful.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

Earnestly entreat Him Who was lifted up upon the Cross and hath cast down Hades, О Theotokos, on behalf of those who ever faithfully hymn thee with sacred songs and hymns, О hope of the world and help of the faithful.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.   

О Lady who by thy birthgiving hast freed mankind from the corruption of death: Deliver me from the corruption of the passions, from infirmities and grievous transgressions, and by thy divine mediation grant me the life which groweth not old.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Having immutably made Thyself like unto man in all things, О Word of God, thou didst manifestly issue forth from the pure Virgin, and hast revealed to all the thrice-radiant Godhead in the unchangeable Essence and immutable Hypostases.

Ode IV, Irmos: Having never left the bosom of the Father, * Thou didst descend to earth O Christ God, * I have heard of the mystery of Thy dispensation, * and I have glorified Thee, * O only Lover of mankind.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

Spread forth thy mercy and tender compassion upon thy servants who ever pray to thee, О pure one, delivering them from dreadful torment By thy prayers.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

With pure prayer and fervent love I flee unto thee, О most immaculate one. Be thou the remission of my many transgressions, delivering and saving me.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.   

By thy birthgiving, О most pure Lady, thou hast shown thyself to be the mediatress of our Joy. Beseech Him, О most immaculate one, to deliver us from perils and grant unto me eternal life.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О Christ God, Who left not the bosom of the Father when Thou didst become incarnate from the Virgin: Preserve Thy flock which worshippeth the divine images of Thy dispensation.

Ode V, Irmos: Night is bereft of light * for those without faith, О Christ, * but for the faithful there is enlightenment * in the sweetness of Thy words; * wherefore, I rise early unto Thee * and hymn Thy Divinity.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Thee do I entreat, О pure Virgin, to deliver my soul from gloomy sin, and to illumine it with the divine radiance of repentance and thy mercy.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

By thy prayers and supplications deliver those who find themselves in the midst of an abyss of cruel temptations and violent passions, О most holy and pure one, and save those who praise thee.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О most holy Theotokos, who didst conceive God in thy virginal womb and hast given birth unto Him: from all eternal damnation deliver those who hymn thee.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Knowing thee to be the Mother of God and our helper, О pure one, we set thee before the compassionate Lord as the mediatress of our salvation.

Ode VI, Irmos: I cried out to Thee, О Lord, when I was afflicted, * and Thou didst raise up my life, * О greatly Merciful One.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

Entreat thy Son, Who was lifted up upon the Cross and hath delivered mankind from corruption, О Lady, that we be saved.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

О most pure Lady, forsake me not who place my trust in thee; but hasten thou unto mine aid.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.   

From grief deliver those who invoke thy divine name, and free them from dreadful torment.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О most pure Lady our steadfast hope, preserve those who with love hymn thee as the true Theotokos.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Sessional Hymn, in Tone VII: Christ God, Who was crucified for our sake and hath cast down the dominion of death, do thou unceasingly entreat, О Virgin Theotokos, that He save our souls.

Ode VII, Irmos: Of old the Children were shown to be * bedewed in the fiery furnace, * chanting and praising the one God saying: * ‘Supremely exalted and exceedingly glorified is the God of our Fathers’.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

In distraction and grief, and amid misfortunes, О most pure one, I fervently call upon thee with all my heart: Anticipate my need, and deliver me and grant me peace, О pure one.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

The threefold billows of many transgressions and passions batter me and cause me to sink into the depths of destruction; but grant me thy hand and save me, О Theotokos, and have mercy upon me in thy might.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.   

I bring Thy Mother before Thee, О Saviour and Lover of mankind, to pray for me. Receiving her, deliver me from transgressions and the judgment which is to come, and rescue me from everlasting torment.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Possessed of a soul deadened by grievous crimes, I beseech thee, О Lady, who hast slain Hades by thy birthgiving: Grant me life through examples of repentance.

Ode VIII, Irmos: Christ Who is truly God, * the Cause of the existence of all, * let us supremely exalt and glorify * throughout all ages.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

From misfortunes, corruption and the passions save me, О most pure one; for I flee to thee, my hope and divine salvation.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having delivered me from evil accusers at the last hour, О Lady and Virgin, do thou thyself guide me to the divine habitation.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.   

Rouse thyself, О my soul, and, falling down, cry aloud unto the Theotokos: О hope and salvation of all, deliver me from eternal fire!

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Let us hymn the Virgin who alone among women is blessed, glorifying and supremely exalting Christ throughout all ages.

Ode IX, Irmos: O Mother of God and Virgin, * thou hast given birth and yet remained a virgin, * not in accordance with nature, * but by the condescension of God; * wherefore, we ever magnify thee, * who alone wast deemed worthy * of the wonders of God.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

The Theotokos offereth Thee entreaty on my behalf, О Christ my Master. Accepting it, deliver me from all torment.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us. 

I ever entreat thee, О Lady: Deliver my lowly soul from the judgment and torment which are to come.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.   

Beseech my Creator and Fashioner, О Virgin, that He deliver me from the dread judgment and grant me life.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen

О all-immaculate and pure Virgin Mother, from spiritual defilement deliver thy flock which magnifies thee.

Monday Evening Compline: Supplicatory Canon in Tone VII

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

Ode I, Irmos: Having crushed battles with His arm * and drowned the mounted captains * let us sing unto Him, as to our God and Redeemer, * for He hath been glorified.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

We entreat thee, О most pure one, the cause of our salvation and divine deliverance: Pray thou that we be saved.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Wholly sunk am I in grievous temptations, in misfortunes and transgressions; and I cry to thee, О most pure one: Save me, thy servant!

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

We beseech thee, the pure Virgin and the Mother of the Creator: Deliver us from all the oppression of the demons.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О thou who hast ineffably given birth in the flesh to the Word, entreat Christ our God, the Author of life, that we be saved.

Ode III, Irmos: The Church of Christ hath been confirmed by faith; * wherefore she crieth out unceasingly in hymns, chanting: * Holy art Thou, O Lord! * and my spirit doth hymn Thee!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Treading the path of most pernicious evil, I have not found the path of my salvation. Do thou guide me to it, О most immaculate Lady.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Thee alone, О all-immaculate one, do I describe as my might and confirmation, my help and hope. Be thou a helper for me on the day of my departure.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

I ever beseech thee, О most immaculate one: At the hour of my death stand before me, and deliver thy servant from torment.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Thou wast ineffably born from the Virgin, О Lord our Saviour, and hast revealed Thyself as Thou didst will, restoring the world.

Ode IV, Irmos: I heard report of Thee * and became filled with fear; * I understood Thy works * and became filled with awe, O Lord.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Having violated the precepts of my Master, I have been revealed to be easy prey to mine enemies. Do thou deliver me, О Lady.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

At the hour of my death deliver me, О most pure one, and save my passion- fraught soul from the demons.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О most pure Lady, break asunder the bonds of my transgressions, and by thy supplications be for me a mediator for everlasting life.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

We hymn thee who even after giving birth didst remain a virgin, О most pure one, and we glorify thee as the Mother of our God.

Ode V, Irmos: Rising at dawn O Word unto Thy glory and praise, * we unceasingly hymn the image of Thy Cross, * which Thou hast bestowed upon us * as a weapon of assistance.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О good Virgin, thou haven amid the storm for those who are grievously troubled, thou portal of salvation for those who are saved by faith: Save me, thy servant!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Richly show forth upon me, thy servant, thy many compassions, О Virgin Theotokos, delivering me from the dread judgment which is to come.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

The inconstant night of the passions besets my soul sending it into the pit of destruction. With the light of thy prayer, О Theotokos, save me, thy servant.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О all-holy and joyous Virgin who ineffably hast given birth to the Word in time: Entreat Him to save our souls.

Ode VI, Irmos: Jonah cried out from the belly of Hades: * Lead my life up from corruption! * And we cry aloud unto Thee: * O almighty Saviour, have mercy on us!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Thee do we have as a sure aid amid perils, our mighty salvation amid tribulations, a place of rest for us amid griefs, and our help amid misfortunes, О Ever-virgin.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О most pure one, show thyself to be the preserver of my whole life: deliver me from the demons at the hour of my death, and grant me rest after my death.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О Virgin Theotokos, thou art the beauty of the honourable and holy angels, and the joy of all mankind. Do thou guide me unto life.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

О most immaculate one, heal thou my wretched soul, which hath become incurably sick through the delusions of life and the closing of many doors.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Sessional Hymn, in Tone VII: In the tender compassion of Thy mercy, О Christ God, Thou wast pleased to become incarnate from the holy Virgin. For her sake preserve our life, in that Thou lovest mankind.

Ode VII, Irmos: Thou didst bedew the burning furnace, O Saviour, * and didst save the children who chanted, proclaiming: * Blessed art Thou throughout the ages, * O Lord God of our fathers!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Calling to mind the multitude of my transgressions, I am in despair, О most immaculate one. Wherefore, I cry unto thee: Help me, lest I perish utterly!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Knowing thee to be the Mother of Life, О pure one, I cry to thee: Deliver me from the death of the soul, and grant unto me eternal life!

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О most immaculate one, from misfortunes and the passions, from pain and affliction, from the offences of life and the unquenchable eternal fire do thou deliver those who faithfully honour thee with hymns.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Every tongue doth glorify thee, О pure and all-hymned Theotokos, who art the glory and boast of our race and the guide of the lost.

Ode VIII, Irmos: Unto Him before whom the cherubim are in awe, * and the seraphim filled with wonder, * the Fashioner of the world: * O ye priests and servants and spirits of the righteous, * hymn ye, bless ye, and supremely exalt * throughout the ages.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

I have wasted my whole life in slothfulness, utter wretch that I am; and am now cast into confusion and drawn nigh unto mine end. Help me, О Lady!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

As thy prayer never fails, О all-immaculate Sovereign Lady of the world, from the judgment which is to come deliver those who with faith venerate thine image.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Every tongue which rendereth glory hymneth thee, О Virgin Bride of God, for thou hast given birth to the all-hymned God. Him do thou unceasingly entreat, that He save the souls of those who hymn thee.

Ode IX, Irmos: О ye faithful, with hymns let us magnify the Theotokos, * who in a manner transcending nature became a mother, * and is a Virgin by nature, * she alone is blessed among women!

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

Those who with faith flee beneath thy tender compassion are delivered from the sorrowful tribulations of life; wherefore, I also have fled to thy protection, О Theotokos.

Most Holy Theotokos, save us.

О pure one, thou mighty helper, invincible bulwark against griefs, save me from sinful passions and from the everlasting fire.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.  

О pure Virgin, with the radiant effulgence of the Word Who shone forth from thee illumine me, save me, and rescue me from torments, in that thou art good.

Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen

In thine arms thou dost carry Him Who sustaineth all things. Him do thou entreat, О pure one, that He save us who are beset by the malice of the alien one.

Weekly News – Pentecost-Trinity

Dear brothers and sisters,

S prazdnikom! Greetings for the feast of Pentecost-Trinity, and heartfelt thanks for those who worked to make our celebration in Cardiff such a wonderful and joyful occasion.

The abundance of flowers and greenery, made church feel very festive, and we are indebted to our sisters for their hard work in ensuring that everyone had flowers to hold during vespers, and also to those who brought birch and other greenery. It was wonderful to see people so happy and buoyant, despite the long services. Thanks also to Georgina, who – in addition to the new analoy covers – has made coloured top cloths in the various liturgical colours of the Church’s year, with green ones matching our vestments, today.

Having both Olga and Edmund on the kliros brought confidence to our singers, and having Hierodeacon Avraamy back from his summer vacation was timely, with his soaring voice adding greatly to the feast, especially with those wonderful words of the Great Prokeimenon: “Who so great a god as our God? Thou art the God Who workest wonders!”

As I observed in the homily, the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples in the upper room, was only the beginning of Pentecost in the Church, and the ongoing operation of the Holy Spirit in its life – especially in the Holy Mysteries – is the ongoing indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the continuation of the events of the birthday of the Church, with the sound of rushing wind and the tongues of fire resting upon the holy apostles.

In the aposticha of vespers, we heard –

“Now, the comforting Spirit hath been poured on all flesh; for, starting with the rank of the Apostles, He extended grace through the communion of believers, certifying His effective presence by the distribution of tongues to the Disciples in fiery likeness for the praise and glory of God. Wherefore, being noetically illumined with them and confirmed in the steadfast Faith, we beseech the Holy Spirit to save our souls.”

The pouring forth of the Holy Spirit started with the rank of the Apostles, but subsequently continues in each generation of the Church, and the whole communion of believers. By our baptism and chrismation, by our restoration in confession, by the spiritual food of the Saviour’s Body and Blood, and through each and all of the Holy Mysteries, we receive that noetic illumination and confirmation of Faith, and are joined to that first Pentecost in the upper room: not by being passive bystanders, but being active participants in the life of the Holy Spirit in the Church, and welcoming the Heavenly King, the Comforter and Spirit of Truth to enter, abide in us, cleanse us and heal us.

This will have been Father Mark’s last Great Feast as a Deacon, as we look forward to the Grace of the Holy Spirit, through the hands of our bishop – as a successor of the Apostles in the upper room – conferring the Grace and dignity of the sacred priesthood. As I looked at my old deacon’s stikhar, I wondered who will wear it next, and be called to serve by the Grace of the Holy Spirit!

Let us all actively labour for the Grace of the Holy Spirit, heeding St Seraphim, recognising the acquisition of the Holy Spirit as the most pressing and important thing in our lives, doing this above all by prayer.

Having posted prayer-resources on-line, may I commend them to parishioners for their spiritual praxis and prayer-life in these days of Pentecost.

A Canon to the Holy Spirit composed by Theophanes the Monk may be found here in English: https://russianorthodoxchurchcardiff.com/a-canon-to-the-holy-spirit-by-theophanes

… and St Maximos the Greek’s canon to the Holy Paraclete, may be found here: https://russianorthodoxchurchcardiff.com/a-canon-to-the-divine-worshipful-all-holy-spirit-the-paraclete

The corresponding Slavonic texts may be found here:

https://russianorthodoxchurchcardiff.com/канон-святому-духу

and http://hramnagorke.ru/dialog/index.php?topic=1164.0;wap2

After the joy of the feast in Cardiff, I have travelled to Bath, where we will have our end-of-month gathering of West of England parishioners, sanctified by prayer on the Day of the Holy Spirit, with time for spiritual conversation and fellowship.

In Cardiff, we are now very much enjoying the hospitality of the Oratory Church, having headed to Swinton Street last week for the akathist to Our Lady of Walsingham on Tuesday, and Vespers/confessions on Thursday and Saturday – with the privilege of being able to pray before the relics of St Alban and venerate them after each service.

The akathist hymn will be chanted in St Alban’s Church on Tuesday at the slightly later time of 15:00, and vespers will be chanted at the same time on Thursday and Saturday, with confessions as needed after each service. If anyone needs to confess on Thursday evening, may I have notification as soon as possible. As Sister Marie is away for a few weeks, I have to prearrange using Nazareth House with Sister Anna, and do not want this to be last minute.

Having discussed the issue of parish elections with our chancellor, I can confirm that Bishop Irenei will discuss issues of parish governance over the days surrounding the ordination of Deacon Mark, next month, and that he may bless Father Paul to oversee the conclusion of the election process, if required.

Remember that this week is fast-free, before we begin the Apostles’ Fast on

In Christ – Hieromonk Mark