Today saw the celebration of the Nativity of St Nicholas in Cardiff after the feast of the Smolensk icon in Warminster yesterday.
In my homily in Warminster, I reflected upon the life of the Smolensk icon, being carried in battle against the Mongol Hordes and against the invading French Army of 1812, stressing that, as Vladyka recently pointed out to us, the ceaseless Christian war is actually one that exists in each of our lives – not against worldly powers and regimes, but against sin and temptation.
As an Hodegetria Icon in which the Mother of God is ‘she who shows the way’, pointing to Christ as the very centre of her and our lives, it is through her example and guidance, following that iconographic hand in Her Smolensk icon, to concentrate upon Christ as the focal point and meaning of lives obedient to the Law of God, determined by the Gospel, and fighting against sin and temptation, that we will gain the real victory.
A great example of this is to be seen in St Nicholas, whose very name means Victor, or Winner – as explained to our youngsters at the end of Liturgy. The Mother of God and the Holy Wonderworker Nicholas show us that there is no victory unless we fight and labour for Christ.
If there is no battle, we will be spiritually crushed and lose the crown prepared for us by the Saviour, Who was victorious over hades, death and Satan through in His Life-Giving Passion and Glorious Resurrection. Victory was gained through the Cross, reminding us that without struggle and fighting for the Kingdom of Heaven, there will be no victory. The Cross is our weapon and token of victory, but only if it is lived and embraced!
Thank you to all who laboured for our weekend celebrations, especially for such generous hospitality and support whilst travelling away from home. It was lovely to have new people to join us for Liturgy, and wonderful that parish hospitality embraced them as they stopped to have lunch and chat, and to have our young people engage and make them welcome.
It was a blessing to have Father Mark the Younger preach the homily at Liturgy, an we are grateful for such a well expressed encapsulation of the Sunday Gospel, highlighting that like the blind men, we need to follow Christ, keeping up with him and being persistent in our prayers when He may not respond to them in our time, rather than His time. Thank you, Father!
This Wednesday, the feast of the All-Merciful Saviour and the Procession of the Cross marks the beginning of the Dormition Fast, and Vespers will be chanted in the Oratory Church on Tuesday, the eve of the feast at 15:00. This is the first feast of the Saviour in August, known to us as the ‘Honey Saviour’ – ‘medovy spas’.
To once more quote St Nikolai Velimirovich:
“This feast was instituted by a mutual agreement of the Greeks and Russians at the time of the Greek Emperor Manuel and the Russian Prince Andrew in commemoration of the simultaneous victories of the Russians over the Bulgarians and the Greeks over the Saracens [in 1164]. In both of these battles, crosses were carried by the armies from which heavenly rays shone. It was therefore instituted that, on August 1, the Cross be carried first to the middle of the Church of the Divine Wisdom [Hagia Sophia] and after that, along the streets for the people to venerate as a commemoration of the miraculous help of the Cross in previous battles. This was not an ordinary cross but the true Honourable Cross which was kept in the church of the imperial court. On July 31, the Honourable Cross was carried from the imperial court to the Church of the Holy Wisdom of God and from there it was carried along the streets for the consecration of the earth and the air. Finally, on August 14, it was again returned to the church of the imperial palace.”
As most parishioners will be at work on the feast, we will bless honey after next Sunday’s Liturgy, so please bring your honey, honey-cakes, mead, poppy seeds and poppy-seed cakes and any other festal fare to be blessed, so that we can rally “taste and see how good the Lord is.”
Rather than vespers, Thursday will see the chanting of a moleben to St Vasily the Blessed of Moscow, in our usual Thursday afternoon 3 o’clock gathering in the Oratory Church. Please message me if you’d like confession on Thursday.
Saturday is our monthly Cheltenham visit, with the Hours and Liturgy in Prestbury United Reformed Church at 10:30. We look forward to Father Mark’s first priestly celebration on Cheltenham, and will perform the honey blessing at the end of the service.
Monday 19th August (6th Old Style) is the feast of the Transfiguration, and will be marked by the celebration of the Divine Liturgy and blessing of new fruits in the Oratory Church at 10:30. I know that Masha very much wants to remain in Cardiff on Sunday night to be with us for the Transfiguration in Liturgy, so if anyone is able to offer a night’s hospitality, please get in touch with her.
As previously announced, Saturday 24th August will be see our Wessex pilgrimage to the Saxon church of St Laurence in Bradford-on-Avon, with the Hours at 09:00, followed by the Divine Liturgy at 9:30. Weather permitting we will have a picnic lunch in the churchyard after the service.
Please think about what you can take on during the short fast ahead of us, in order to dedicate the thirteen days – fourteen with the feast of Dormition – to the Mother of God. If possible, read a supplication canon in her honour every day. Use these days to spiritually prepare for our Summer Pascha, when we will celebrate the falling asleep, resurrection and assumption of the Most Holy Theotokos into heaven.
Greetings for the feast of the Pochaev and St Petersburg Joy of All Who Sorrow icons the Most Holy Mother of God!
Yesterday saw the celebration of feast of the Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles, Mary Magadalene, with a prayerful and joyful Liturgy celebrated by Father Mark “the Younger”, who is settling into priestly liturgical life quite naturally and without any fuss. This allowed me to hear quite a large volume of confessions and to then make commemorations in the early part of the Liturgy. This flexibility is very welcome. However, we must be clear that on alternate Sundays when I will act as primary celebrant confessions must end during the sixth hour, allowing me time to vest. This means that confession time on those Sundays will be around an hour, from 10:15.
It made a great difference for clergy to arrive yesterday and find that our starosta and parishioners had already made a good start on setting up the church, and we are grateful to all who were there to assist and who came early, to be of help. We need to remember that we are each an integral part of the parish, and are needed for its community life and to make things work effectively. I was surprised and relieved by the speed and smoothness of the packing away after, and glad to se that Father Mark was able to sit at table and be with parishioners whilst I saw those who needed to talk individually during the afternoon.
During Liturgy, it was a great joy to welcome baby Sophia as she made her fist communion, after her baptism the previous Sunday afternoon, to have quite a few new faces, and to then for Joseph to enter the catechumenate through the rite of making a catechumen.
Thanks to all who laboured for the celebration, and a nod to the young people whom it was good to see in the kitchen helping our sisters after the service.
I would like to remind everyone that during the summer months the doors of St John’s remain open, and there is often a quiet flow of people coming in and out of the church, some of whom come and chat, others remaining for a short time, some probably entering and leaving without us even noticing. With this in mind, can I please ask parishioners to be careful and responsible and NOT to leave handbags, purses/wallets or any valuables in the body of the church whilst they are in trapeza, and have little or no view of the body of the church. Let’s please be responsible and avoid risk.
As some of you know, the Llanelli parish presented an icon of St Seraphim to his newly-enlightened namesake as a baptism present. If anyone would like to contribute to the cost of the icon, could they please contact me so that I can let Father Luke know.
As mentioned in our previous newsletter and announced at Liturgy, we have some extra dates for diaries, this month.
Saturday 10th August: Warminster Hours and Liturgy at 10:30
Wednesday 14th August (1st according to the Church Calendar) Dormition Fast begins
Saturday 17th August: Cheltenham Divine Liturgy in Prestbury United Reformed Church at 10:30 – honey blessing at the end of Liturgy.
Sunday 18th August: Cardiff Hours and Divine Liturgy at 11:00 – honey blessing at the end of Liturgy.
Monday 6/19th August: Transfiguration Hours and Divine Liturgy in the Oratory Church, in Swinton Street at 10:30, with the blessing of fruit at the end of the service.
Saturday 24th August: Wessex pilgrimage to the Saxon church of St Laurence in Bradford-on-Avon. Hours at 9:00, followed by the Divine Liturgy at 9:30. Picnic lunch after the service.
Sunday 25th August: Afterfeast of the Transfiguration – Cardiff Hours and Divine Liturgy at 11:00 – fruit blessing at the end of Liturgy.
Wednesday 15/28thAugust: Hours and Divine Liturgy for the Dormition in the Oratory Church at 10:30.
This week, vespers will be chanted before the relics of St Alban in the Oratory Church on Thursday at 15:00, followed by confession, and if anyone needs an evening confession I will meet them at Nazareth House, but need to know asap, so that I can make arrangements with the Sisters.
As you will have possible seen on WhatsApp, the Book Club will be restarting, reading the Popular Patristics Series volume “On Christian Doctrine and Practice” by St Basil the Great:
Please contact Menna for any book club details/info. Menna will also be the happy recipient of any unwanted Orthodox books for parish lending, especially given the number of enquirers and new people. It’s good to see so many books in circulation at the moment, and we would like to build on this.
The Holy Prophet Elijah (Elias) is one of the greatest of the prophets and the first dedicated to virginity in the Old Testament. He was born in Tishba of Gilead into the Levite tribe 900 years before the Incarnation of the Word of God.
Saint Epiphanius of Cyprus gives the following account about the birth of the Prophet Elijah: “When Elijah was born, his father Sobach saw in a vision angels of God around him. They swaddled him with fire and fed him with flames.”
The name Elijah (the Lord’s strength) given to the infant defined his whole life. From the years of his youth he dedicated himself to the One God, settled in the wilderness and spent his whole life in strict fasting, meditation and prayer. Called to prophetic service, which put him in conflict with the Israelite king Ahab, the prophet became a fiery zealot of true faith and piety.
During this time the Israelite nation had fallen away from the faith of their Fathers, they abandoned the One God and worshipped pagan idols, the worship of which was introduced by the impious king Jereboam. Jezebel, the wife of king Ahab, was devoted to idol worship. She persuaded her husband to build a temple to the pagan god Baal, which led many Israelites away from the worship of the true God. Beholding the ruin of his nation, the Prophet Elijah began to denounce King Ahab for impiety, and exhorted him to repent and turn to the God of Israel. The king would not listen to him. The Prophet Elijah then declared to him, that as punishment there would be neither rain nor dew upon the ground, and the drought would cease only by his prayer. Indeed, the word of Elijah was a torch (Eccles. 48: 1). The heavens were closed for three and a half years, and there was drought and famine throughout all the land.
During this time of tribulation, the Lord sent him to a cave beyond the Jordan. There he was miraculously fed by ravens. When the stream Horath dried up, the Lord sent the Prophet Elijah to Sarephta to a poor widow, a Sidonian Gentile who suffered together with her children, awaiting death by starvation. At the request of the prophet, she prepared him a bread with the last measure of flour and the remainder of the oil. Through the prayer of the Prophet Elijah, flour and oil were not depleted in the home of the widow for the duration of the famine. By the power of his prayer the prophet also performed another miracle: he raised the dead son of the widow.
After the end of three years of drought the Merciful Lord sent the prophet to appear before King Ahab, and promised to send rain upon the earth. The Prophet Elijah told the king to order all of Israel to gather upon Mount Carmel, and also the priests of Baal. When the nation had gathered, the Prophet Elijah proposed that two sacrificial altars be built: one for the priests of Baal, and the other for the Prophet Elijah who served the True God.
The Prophet Elijah told them to call on their gods to consume the sacrificial animals with fire, and he would call on his. Whichever was first to send fire on the sacrifice would be acknowledged as the true God. The prophets of Baal called out to their idol from morning till evening, but the heavens were silent. Towards evening the holy Prophet Elijah built his sacrificial altar from twelve stones, the number of the tribes of Israel. He placed the sacrifice upon the wood, gave orders to dig a ditch around the altar and commanded that the sacrifice and the wood be soaked with water. When the ditch had filled with water, the prophet turned to God in prayer. Through the prayer of the prophet fire came down from heaven and consumed the sacrifice, the wood, and even the water. The people fell down to the ground, crying out: “Truly, the Lord is God!” Then the Prophet Elijah had all the pagan-priests of Baal put to death, and he began to pray for rain. Through his prayer the heavens opened and an abundant rain fell, soaking the parched earth.
King Ahab acknowledged his error and repented of his sins, but his wife Jezebel threatened to kill the prophet of God. The Prophet Elijah fled into the Kingdom of Judea and, grieving over his failure to eradicate idol worship, he asked God to let him die. An angel of the Lord came before him, strengthened him with food and commanded him to go upon a long journey. The Prophet Elijah traveled for forty days and nights and, having arrived at Mount Horeb, he settled in a cave.
The Lord told him that the next day Elijah would stand in His presence.There was a strong wind that crushed the rocks of the mountain, then an earthquake, and a fire, but the Lord was not in them. The Lord was in “a gentle breeze” (3 Kings 19: 12). He revealed to the prophet, that He would preserve seven thousand faithful servants who had not worshipped Baal.
Later, the Lord commanded Elijah to anoint Elisha into prophetic service. Because of his fiery zeal for the Glory of God the Prophet Elijah was taken up alive into Heaven in a fiery chariot. The Prophet Elisha received Elijah’s mantle, and a double portion of his prophetic spirit.
According to the Tradition of Holy Church, the Prophet Elijah will be the Forerunner of the Dread Second Coming of Christ. He will proclaim the truth of Christ, urge all to repentance, and will be slain by the Antichrist. This will be a sign of the end of the world.
The life of the holy Prophet Elijah is recorded in the Old Testament books (3 Kings; 4 Kings; Sirach/Ecclesiasticus 48: 1-15; 1 Maccabees 2: 58). At the time of the Transfiguration, the Prophet Elijah conversed with the Savior upon Mount Tabor (Mt. 17: 3; Mark 9: 4; Luke. 9: 30).
Orthodox Christians of all times, and in all places, have venerated the Prophet Elijah for centuries. The first church in Russia, built at Kiev under Prince Igor, was named for the Prophet Elijah. After her Baptism Saint Olga (July 11) built a temple of the holy Prophet Elijah in her native region, at the village of Vibuta.
In iconography the Prophet Elijah is depicted ascending to Heaven in a fiery chariot, surrounded with flames, and harnessed to four winged horses. We pray to him for deliverance from drought, and to ask for seasonable weather.
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Canon I, in Tone II
Ode I, Irmos: Let us chant a hymn of victory to the Lord, Who of old guided His people in the sea, and therein engulfed Pharaoh and all his army.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Desiring to behold the fiery power of the miracles of Elias, his fiery and honoured tongue and strength of spirit, we have assembled as is meet.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
O God-bearer, our lips and the muteness and lack of skill of our tongue do thou rectify by the activity of the Spirit which is within thee, and illumine us, that we may hymn thy wonders.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Thou dost grant that which transcendeth nature unto those who have submitted to Thine honoured precepts, O Word, and Thou dost make the portals of the rain subject to them through the Spirit, confirming their word.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
To the Lord Who was born of the Virgin and Who hath renewed the world, and Who for her sake hath bestowed upon us life divine, we chant a hymn of victory, for He hath been glorified.
Canon II, the acrostic whereof is: “I sing praise to the great Elias,” the composition of Hieromonk Pachomius, in Tone VIII
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!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Thou hast been shown to be a harp struck by the plectrum of God, O most wondrous prophet, hymning the omniscient God Who rewardeth all according to their deeds.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
O wondrous prophet, unable to endure falsehood, thou didst denounce the unrighteous king for his iniquity. Wherefore, thou didst impose God’s sentence of condemnation, full of wrath, upon him.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
O divine Elias, prophet and forerunner of grace, having denounced Ahab, the iniquitous king, as a transgressor of the Law, thou didst destroy the shameful prophets as ungodly.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O ye faithful, let us make haste to praise the Mother of Christ in hymns as is meet, for she gave birth unto the Saviour of all, Who is the Master of life and death.
Ode III, Irmos: Establishing me upon the rock of faith, Thou hast enlarged my mouth against mine enemies, for my spirit doth exult when I chant: There is none holy as our God, and none righteous save Thee, O Lord!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
He Who alone sustaineth every living thing by His good will, through a raven provided thee with a banquet as a chosen guest, O Prophet. To Him do we all cry out: Thou art our God, and there is none holy save Thee, O Lord!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Grace be to the Benefactor and Guardian Who, in His ineffable providence, nourished the widow and the prophet. To Him do we all cry out: Thou art our God, and none is holy save Thee, O Lord!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
O thou who didst forbid the rain-laden clouds to pour forth, when the widow of Zarephath was deprived of food, thou didst cause the remnant of her food to increase continually; and didst cry out: None is holy save Thee, O Lord!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou alone, surpassing everyone from ages past, hast been vouchsafed great things transcending nature, for thou didst receive the infinite God of all creation within thy womb and didst give Him flesh. Wherefore, we all honour thee as the Theotokos.
Canon II, 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.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
With mercy didst thou chastise all, and takest pity on all that with faith have recourse to thee in thy temple. And in asking help of thee they have in no wise erred.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Thou didst rebuke Ahab, the ungodly king, O divine prophet, and thou didst judge him with the judgment of God as a violator of the law.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
The shameless Queen Jezebel sought to slay thee, O prophet most divine, for thou didst pronounce the sentence of death upon her unholy priests, as was meet.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Mistress, we hymn thee as a place of the priesthood of glory and the altar which held Christ, the Bread of life, O pure one.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Sessional hymn, Tone VIII, Spec. Mel. “Of the Wisdom…”: O ye faithful, with hymns let us all praise Elias the Tishbite, the wellspring of miracles and adornment of prophets; for, being immortal while yet in the flesh, as a mortal he assureth us of the resurrection of the dead. Wherefore, having boldness before God, he granteth healing to those who ask with faith, and earnestly beseecheth Christ to bestow remission of offenses upon those who with love celebrate his 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 fallen into subtle temptations through the activity of mine enemies, visible and invisible, I am caught fast in the tempest of my countless offenses. And I flee to the haven of thy goodness, as to my fervent help and protection, O pure one. Wherefore, O most pure lady, earnestly entreat Him Who was incarnate of thee without seed, in behalf of all thy servants that unceasingly pray to thee, O all-pure Theotokos, who dost ever beseech Him to grant remission of offenses to those who hymn thy glory as is meet.
Ode IV, Irmos: I have heard report of Thy dispensation, O Lord, and have glorified Thee Who alone lovest mankind.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Thou art shown to be one that cutteth off evil at its root and a planter of virtue, O wise prophet. Wherefore, we bless thee.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
With reproaches the widow who fed thee upbraided thee for the death of her son, moving thee to raise him from the dead.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Thou didst clearly signify the glory of the Trinity with thy threefold breathing, and didst hand back alive the child to his mother.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
O how thou didst burn, aflame with divine fire and zeal, O prophet, denouncing the king who wrought iniquities!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
O pure one, who without seed didst conceive God, we entreat thee ever to pray for thy servants.
Canon II, Irmos: I heard report of Thee, O Lord, and was afraid; for by the ineffable Counsel of the Godhead, Thou, Who art God eternal, didst issue forth, incarnate, from the Virgin. Glory to Thy condescension, O Christ! Glory to Thy power!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
The Lord crowned thee a prophet, O most wise one, granting thee the grace to foretell things of the future as though they were of the present. Wherefore, beholding now the fulfillments of thy words, we bless thee ever with praises as a true prophet.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
As the soul of Thy prophet was most greatly adorned with humble-mindedness, O Christ God, aflame with zeal which surpasseth fire he destroyed the shameful priests.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Reflecting the Light with thy countenance, like a mirror, thou dost stand before the face of Christ, O most wondrous prophet, whence do thou mercifully visit us, that with praises we may all bless thee as a prophet.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Having acquired thee as our hope and confirmation, an impregnable rampart of salvation, O all-hymned one, we are delivered from all evil.
Ode V, Irmos: O Lord, Bestower of light and Creator of the ages: guide us in the light of Thy commandments, for we know none other God than Thee.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
The law of thy fathers hath showed thee forth as a true man of prayer, O Elias, a wonderworker who transformed the nature of the elements and utterly consumed the righteous sacrifice with water.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
As thou art a true minister of God, thou didst utterly put to shame the prophets of abominable shame, O venerable and most blessed Elias, clearly marking the power of the Trinity.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Rendering priestly service through the word of grace, O Elias, consumed with zeal as with fire thou didst slay the shameful priests with thy blameless hands.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
To thee that gavest birth unto Christ, the Creator of all, we cry out: Rejoice, O pure one! Rejoice, thou who hast shone forth the Light upon us! Rejoice, thou who didst contain the infinite God!
Canon II, Irmos: Wherefore hast Thou turned Thy face from me, O Light never-waning? And why hath a strange darkness covered me, wretch that I am? But turn me, and guide my steps to the light of Thy commandments, I pray.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
O prophet Elias, whom the unwaning splendor of divine grace hath revealed, having diligently acquired a mind most divine, thou dost move the pious to hymnody.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Who doth not marvel at thy divine zeal, O wondrous prophet? And who doth not hymn Christ Who hath given thee such great might?
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
With prophecy wast thou adorned by God, O Elias, most wondrous prophet; wherefore, having wholly united thyself to God, denouncing falsehood, thou didst lead the Israelites to the knowledge of God.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Theotokos, who gavest birth to the never-setting Sun, enlighten me who am utterly benighted by the passions, and fill me with light divine.
Ode VI, Irmos: The uttermost abyss of offenses hath surrounded me, O Lord, but lead up my life from corruption, as Thou didst the Prophet Jonah, O Lord.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
A pillar of piety and the pure life, an instiller of purity, and an emulator of the angels wast thou, O wondrous God-bearer Elias.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
The wrath of the prophet-slaying woman, having frightened thee who had received the power to bind and loose the downpouring of the rains, O wondrous Elias, caused thee to flee.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Having stooped to the ground, thou didst raise on high the supremely exalted eye of thy mind, by thine eminent entreaty causing the rains to be loosed; and with showers thou didst water the furrows of the earth.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The bush on Sinai, which touched the Fire without being consumed, prefigured thee, the Ever-Virgin Mother, O all-hymned Theotokos Mary.
Canon II, Irmos: Cleanse me, O Saviour, for many are my transgressions; and lead me up from the abyss of evils, I pray, for to Thee have I cried, and Thou hast hearkened to me, O God of my salvation.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
A hymn of supplication do thou offer unto God, O most honoured prophet, on behalf of all that have recourse to thy divine temple, that we may honour thee as a great helper.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
The mind of man doth not suffice to praise thy life as is meet, O prophet; for, beholding the transfiguration of Christ, thou wast exalted far above the noetic ranks.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
He that is Lord and Creator of all hath appeared to us in accordance with thy prophecy, O blessed Elias, calling all men to the knowledge of Him, for He loveth mankind.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Mary, pure vessel of virginity, cleanse thou my mind of the gloom of the passions, and fill my heart with righteousness, O all-immaculate 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, Tone II: O prophet, foreseer of the mighty works of our God, Elias of great renown, who by thy voice didst restrain the cloud of rain: on our behalf entreat Him Who alone loveth mankind.
Ikos: Beholding the great iniquity of men and the great love of God for mankind, the prophet Elias was troubled and grew wroth; and he addressed pitiless words to the Merciful One, crying out: “Be Thou angered against those who deny Thee, O righteous Judge!” But he did not move the compassion of the Good One to torment those who deny Him, for He Who alone loveth mankind doth ever await the repentance of all.
Ode VII, Irmos: The fiery bush on the mount and the dew-bearing furnace of Chaldæa manifestly prefigured thee, O Bride of God; for in thy material womb thou didst receive the divine and immaterial Fire without being consumed. Wherefore, to Him Who was born of thee do we chant: Blessed art Thou, O God of our fathers!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Most gloriously vested with divine and formidable power, thou didst undertake a long journey, having eaten of food which sufficed thee for forty days, O wondrous Elias. Wherefore, thou didst say on Horeb: Blessed is the God of our fathers!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
The mild and gentle breeze revealed the Lord to thee, O Elias, who wast zealous for God Almighty: not the wind of the tempest, nor the earthquake, nor yet the fearsome fire. Wherefore, to meek Jesus didst thou chant: Blessed art Thou, O God of our fathers!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Like the great Moses, thou wast vouchsafed the vision of God and prophecy, O wondrous Elias, anointing prophets and kings with the Spirit. And having borne witness to the glory of Christ on Tabor, thou didst chant: Blessed art Thou, O God of our fathers!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
In times past thou didst, supernaturally and without seed, give birth in the flesh to the unoriginate and preëternal Lord, the Son, Power and Wisdom of the Father, O all-pure one, unto the restoration of mortals. Wherefore, we cry out to Him Who was born of thee: Blessed is the God of our fathers!
Canon II, 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!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
The people of Israel who came against thee with a captain of fifty thou didst utterly consume with fire from heaven as unworthy, O divine Elias.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Thou wast a most divine prophet who wast rightly illumined with the vision of God, O most honoured Elias; and thou didst straightway put an end to the sacrifices offered to Baal.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Inasmuch as the all-holy Spirit gave thee the gift to prophesy, O most honoured prophet Elias, thou didst foretell the coming of the Son of God and didst sin not, O all-blessed one. To Him do we chant: Blessed is the God of our fathers!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Truly, as was meet, the poison of death was poured forth through the judgment of God and the hand of the prophet upon the shameful priests who ate unrighteously at the table of Jezebel.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Mother of God, save me who am held fast by the abyss of offenses, and rescue me from all the malice of the foe, that, saved by thee, I may magnify thine aid.
Ode VIII, Irmos: The bodies of the pious youths, clad in the same purity as their souls, quivered with awe, and the irresistible fire, though fed with boundless fuel, recoiled; but as the ever-living flame faded away, an everlasting hymn was chanted: O all ye works of the Lord, hymn ye the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Well did Ahab find the just destruction of his house, through the prophet’s condemnation, to be the dread retribution for his vile commission of murder. And with fiery mind the Tishbite chanted a hymn unto the Bestower of life: All ye works of the Lord, hymn and supremely exalt Him for all ages!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Fire rained down from heaven for thee, O Elias, twice consuming captains of fifty, in that thou art God’s chosen minister; for to Him Who controlleth everlasting life thou didst in godly manner declaim the hymn: All ye works of the Lord, hymn and supremely exalt Him for all ages!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
On Tabor Christ showed thee to be an initiate of the mystery of His divine incarnation, in that thou wast an instiller of purity and a most divine scion of virginity, showing the unapproachable light of the Godhead in His Body to thee who criest out: All ye works of the Lord, hymn and supremely exalt Him for all ages!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Most rich was the womb of the Mother of God; for, having received the Word in the coarseness of the flesh and wrought therefrom a form earthly according to hypostasis, it was shown to be the city of God wherein the Most High was well-pleased to dwell. To Him do we chant: All ye works of the Lord, hymn and supremely exalt Him for all ages!
Canon II, Irmos: The King of heaven, Whom the hosts of angels hymn, praise and exalt ye supremely for all ages!
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
He that, as God, knoweth all things, entrusteth to thee, O Elias, in that thou art faithful, the knowledge of things to come and of things that shall come to pass; and He showeth thee things which are afar off as though they were near.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Having strengthened thy mind with pious boldness, O blessed prophet, thou dost foretell those things that are far off as though they were near, O most honoured prophet.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Having cleansed thy mind of all defilement, O divine prophet, thou didst therefore become completely holy, guiding all to the Light of God.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
The Word, to Whom thou didst ineffably give birth, do thou entreat on behalf of those who faithfully honour thee, O pure Theotokos.
Ode IX, Irmos: Thee do we magnify, O blessed and most pure Theotokos, who through thy virginal womb ineffably didst make God incarnate, the Luminary Who shone forth before the sun and hath come to us in the flesh.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Having lived on earth the course which man cannot change, and crossed the Jordan’s stream by means of his mantle, the Tishbite, that air-borne charioteer, made a strange and heaven-traversing journey in the Spirit.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
The Tishbite, aflame with the zeal of piety, was taken up on a fiery chariot; and he let drop his mantle; and Eliseus, clad therein, received divine grace which he could not conceal.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
The Tishbite and Moses the God-seer beheld in revelation on Tabor what eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, and what hath not entered into the hearts of earth-born men: the Lord Almighty, incarnate.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
O Theotokos, we magnify thee, who didst remove the severe condemnation which was of old the correction of our first mother, and who art ever the reconciliation of our race to God, a bridge to the Creator.
Canon II, Irmos: Saved by thee, O pure Virgin, we confess thee to be in truth the Theotokos, magnifying thee with the incorporeal choirs.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Thou hast been deified by the immaterial splendor of the life-creating Trinity, O prophet Elias; wherefore, we all set thee forth as an intercessor to God for the world, O blessed one.
Holy and Glorious Prophet Elias, pray to God for us.
Thou wast known as an angel on earth, O divine prophet, and in heaven as a man of God; for the Lord Himself said: “Because thou art a stern man, O Elias, thou canst not endure iniquitous Israel. Come thou up to Me, that I may come down!”
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Thou didst live on earth as one of the bodiless ones, O divine prophet, and now, upborne to heaven, thou joinest chorus with the angelic choirs. From on high watch over us that hymn thee, O blessed one.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Thou dost hold in thine arms God Who upholdeth all things, and thou dost feed the Nourisher Who became like unto us, O pure one. Him do thou beseech, that He grant to thy people deliverance from all oppressors.
Troparion, Tone IV: The angel in the flesh, the foundation of the prophets, the second forerunner of the Coming of Christ, the glorious Elijah sent grace down from on High upon Elisha, to dispel infirmities and to cleanse lepers. Wherefore, he poureth forth healings upon those who honour him.
How good it is to sit down and catch a breath after a couple of very busy weeks surrounding the ordination of our new priest and my duties in Walsingham. It seems things have caught up on me, so I shall have a quiet first half of the week and not be in Cardiff until Thursday. Slightly alarming blood-pressure and photosensitive headaches seem to be the theme of this new week, but will hopefully relent as the week progresses.
It was good to have time to pray for our parish, the faithful, their loved ones and intentions in Walsingham, and to lift everyone before the Lord and His All-Holy Mother, and it was a blessing to celebrate the Divine Services in the shrine, with the unexpected presence of Father Cosmas from Rugby, an old friend of St Seraphim’s in Birmingham. Sadly, the schism instigated by the Phanar in Ukraine precluded celebrating together, but we were happy that he and his matushka could pray with us and share the feast of the Chilandar Three-Handed Icon of the Mother of God. After more than a quarter of a century since last being at Liturgy with him, the Mother of God did what so often happens in Walsingham, in bringing people together after so many years.
Yesterday, the feast if the Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles the Holy Great-Prince Vladimir, brought further confirmation of how naturally Father Mark the Younger has taken to priestly duties, and it is a joy to have him beside me. It is strange to only have one deacon after the rather symmetrical luxury of a deacon on either hand, but the advantage of having a priest to perform proskomedia whilst I hear confessions makes a vast difference to Sunday mornings.
Sunday mornings would be easier still, if we had more assistance to set up the church, so may I please prompt our young people, in particular, to be in church early to assist and make it possible for everything to be in place as soon as possible.
Hierodeacon Avraamy is keen to develop reading skills in the parish, and has already started working with Tracy, who assisted with services in Walsingham, during he blitzkrieg visit, last week, and I hope that others will follow.
As we look forward to August I would like to flag some dates for diaries.
Saturday 10th August will see the monthly Liturgy in Warminster for Cardiff parishioners living in Wessex.
Dormition Fast begins on 14th August (1st according to the Church Calendar) and lasts until the feast of the Dormition on Wednesday 15/28th
Saturday 17th August will see the celebration of the Divine Liturgy in Cheltenham.
The following day, being the Sunday after the feast of the All-Merciful Saviour, we will perform the traditional honey blessing at the end of Liturgy.
On Monday 6/19th August, the feast of the Transfiguration will be celebrated in the Oratory Church, in Swinton St, with the Hours and Liturgy commencing at 10:30, with the fruit blessing at the end of Liturgy. There will also be a blessing of fruit on the following Saturday and Sunday, when the Divine Liturgy will be celebrated in Bradford-on-Avon and Cardiff.
There will be a Wessex pilgrimage to the Saxon church of St Laurence in Bradford-on-Avon, near Bath on Saturday 24th August, with the Divine Liturgy being celebrated in honour of the patron of the temple – St Laurence of Rome, whose feast falls the previous day. This is a unique and wonderful place, and some South Wales parishioners have already expressed interest in attending. The Hours will be celebrated at 9:00, followed by the Divine Liturgy at 9:30, ending with a cross procession and followed by a picnic if the weather is favourable.
The Divine Liturgy for the feast of the Dormition will be celebrated in the Oratory Church on Wednesday 15/28thAugust, with the Hours commencing at 10:30.
We are delighted to announce that Germaine-Mary’s husband José will be baptised in the London Cathedral on Thursday 29th August, and that they will be crowned in the Orthodox marriage ceremony the following day. Please keep them in your prayers!
This week, I will chant the akathist before the icon of the Walsingham Mother of God at 15:00 in the Oratory Church on Thursday, and will be available for confessions after the service. As I have to potentially wait for up to four hours for a delivery in St John’s, Canton, on Friday, I will also be able to hear confessions from 11:00. Please get in touch.
My presence in town on Saturday will very much depend on progress reducing blood pressure, so please watch WhatsApp for any announcements. Hopefully, once the hot, humid weather subsides, things will be a little easier – particular on presently crowded trains, which are airless and rather hot for cassock clad clerics.
Thanks to all who labour for our parish, and serve the Lord with gladness, and thanks for so many kindnesses to the clergy… from books, icons and food to vitamins and supplements.
Ode I, Irmos: Come, O ye people, * let us sing a song to Christ our God, * Who divided the sea, * and made a way for the nation * which He had brought up out of the bondage of Egypt; * for He hath been glorified.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou art the well-spring of Life, О pure Virgin Mother, having given birth to the Source, Lord and Life of all, bedewing those who glorify thee with faith.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
We who confess thee to be the Theotokos, О most pure one, have thee as an intercessor and a firm foundation which enricheth us, and we are saved from the threefold billows of life, О all-immaculate Virgin.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As thou hast given birth to the Wellspring of life, О Maiden, heal me who am wounded by the passions, and rescue me from the eternal fire, О thou who alone art full of the grace of God.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
As the refuge of the faithful and the mighty help of those who have recourse unto thee, О Ever-Virgin, save us from all want, and the harm of the adversary.
Ode III, Irmos: O Lord, who didst slay sin upon the tree, * firmly establish us in Thee, * and in the hearts of us who hymn Thee * plant the fear of Thee.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
О Virgin, we truly call thee the golden censer, the jar of the Manna, the divine mountain, the all-comely palace.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
As thou art the temple and sacred dwelling-place of the Word, О Theotokos, be thou ever the cleansing of my transgressions, О most holy Virgin.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Neither the tongue of mortal man nor the mind of the incorporeal beings can describe thy birthgiving; for in a manner transcending nature and understanding, О Theotokos, thou hast given birth to the Creator.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
О Virgin Birthgiver of God, be thou the confirmation, refuge and protection of those who have recourse to thee with faith and confess thee to be the Mother of God.
Ode IV, Irmos: I have heard report O Lord, * of Thy glorious dispensation, * and I have glorified, Thine unapproachable power, * O Lover of mankind.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
We Christians acquired thee have as our great help, О Theotokos. Rescue us from cruel misfortunes.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
О Lady who knewest not wedlock, having conceived God in thy womb, deliver us all from perils and grief.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
We, the faithful, have acquired thee as an invincible rampart and a mighty hope amid dangers, О pure one.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Having acquired thy supplication as a firm foundation, О Lady, we are delivered from divers sorrows.
Ode V, Irmos: O Lord, Bestower of light and Creator of the ages: * guide us in the light of Thy commandments, * for we know none other God than Thee.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
О Birthgiver of God, we, the faithful, know the Son Who was incarnate and born from thee without seed to be truly God and man by nature. Wherefore, we glorify thee.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Ever fleeing with faith beneath thy protection and help. О most pure Theotokos, we, the faithful, are delivered by thee from every grievous invasion.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О most pure Virgin, deliver us from perils, the tempest of evil thoughts, from all wrath and every sin, from famine and plague, and from everlasting torment.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
As thou art our helper and salvation, the hope of Christians, О Lady, save those who ever hymn thee with love and faith, О all-hymned Virgin.
Ode VI, Irmos: Whirled about in the abyss of sin, * I appeal to the unfathomable abyss of Thy compassion: * Raise me up from corruption, O God. Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
He Who made all things by His will, having willingly made His abode within the womb of her who knew not wedlock, hath enriched with incorruption those afflicted by corruption, in that He is full of tender compassion.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou art more exalted and holy than the hosts on high, О all-immaculate one, having supra-naturally contained the infinite Word within thy womb.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О Lady, to the paths of repentance guide me who am lost on the path of life and have often wandered into sins as into trackless wastes.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Disdain not the entreaties of thy servants who place their hope in thee, О pure one, for thou art the refuge and cleansing of our souls, О Lady.
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 II:Thou didst conceive the Word without seed, and hast given birth to the one Christ; for thou didst bear a new Child, thy Creator. Wherefore, we magnify thee, О Theotokos.
Ode VII, Irmos: When the golden image was worshipped on the plain of Dura, * Thy three children spurned the impious command, * and, cast into the midst of the flame, * they were bedewed, and sang: * O God of our fathers, Blessed art Thou!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
By the power of the Most Holy Spirit thou hast given flesh to the noetic Son Who is of the same nature as the Father, О Lady full of the grace of God. Wherefore, unceasingly entreat Him, that He have pity on those who chant: Blessed art thou who hast given birth to God in the flesh!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
О pure Virgin who knewest not wedlock, О holy and blessed one, thou setting aright of the fallen and deliverance of sinners: Save me, О save me, prodigal though I am, for I cry out to thy Son: Blessed art thou who hast given birth to God in the flesh!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As thou art a sure haven, an awesome intercessor, an impregnable bulwark for those who languish in want and are tempest-tossed in grief, О Theotokos, by thy supplications to thy Son save thy servants from the many and varied temptations.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
О Birthgiver of God, who art the sole hope and help of the faithful, hasten thou to help thy servants who are overwhelmed by sorrows, who are thus at a loss amid their pain, and flee to thee with love of soul.
Ode VIII, Irmos: God Who descended into the fiery furnace * with the Hebrew children, * and transformed the flame into dew, * do ye works hymn, * and supremely exalt as Lord throughout all ages.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
As thou hast given birth to the Wellspring of life, the Water of life, О Virgin Theotokos, bedew my soul, which is being laid waste by the flame of sin, that I may glorify thee throughout all ages.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Having given birth to Christ our God, the Author of life, О pure and blessed Virgin Lady, thou alone hast raised up those slain and cast down into the dust of death and corruption.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О pure Lady, deliver me from everlasting fire and condemnation, and rescue me from corrupt men who seek to trip my heels, that I may ever bless thee whom all creation calls blessed in a divine manner.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Through thee, О pure Virgin, did the Supremely divine One become visible in the likeness of the flesh. Him do thou unceasingly beseech, that He have mercy upon us who live in evil and tremble in the expectation of ever- lasting torment.
Ode IX, Irmos: God the Word, God of God, * Who by ineffable wisdom came to create Adam anew * after his grievous fall to corruption through eating * and Who took flesh beyond all telling from the Holy Virgin for our sake, * Him we faithful with one accord magnify in song.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Grant unto me God’s love for mankind, О Maiden who alone hast ineffably given birth to God the Lover of mankind, Who borrowed flesh from thee, and deliver me from the coming flame and all torment, for I glorify thee with love.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Having acquired thee as a mighty helper, our hope and bulwark, our foundation and steadfast protection, an invincible confirmation, a harbour unbeset by storms and a refuge of strength, О all-hymned one, we are all saved.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О all-hymned Virgin, Mother of the Light, drive away the clouds from my soul, and grant that I may gaze in purity upon the saving beauty which shone forth ineffably from thy most holy womb to enlighten the nations.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
О Virgin Maiden Who hast given birth to the divine Light, illumine my heart, which hath been darkened by many passions and the assaults of alien thoughts, ever granting me teardrops which cleanse away the defilement of sin.
“These things did the holy royal martyrs profess before they were unjustly put to death for Christ’s sake, repeating the testament of the holy Fathers: The ancient martyrs, who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, went to death as to a feast, furnishing their mind and heart with wings of faith; and while condemned to death, they possessed a spirit of peace which never departed from them, for peacefully they went to death, trusting that they would enter into another, spiritual life which is revealed beyond the grave. And having put these words to the test in deed, the holy royal martyrs now rejoice with Christ in the heavens, praying with boldness on behalf of our souls.”
Dear brothers and sisters,
Greetings for the feast of the Holy Royal-Martyrs, whose celebration has been marked by the joyful priestly ordination of our deacon. We congratulate the newly-ordained Priest Mark, matushka Alla and Yuriy, and pray that God may grant them “Many, blessed years!”
To celebrate the altar-feast of the lower church of our cathedral with our bishop and London faithful was a great blessing, and to have so many Cardiff parishioners present was a special joy. Our Hierodeacon, Father Avraamy, was resplendent in his role of first-deacon, and so clearly at home in a cathedral setting.
We are indebted to those who laboured to organise transport and provide food for the festive table, and we look forward to seeing some parishioners over the next few days in London, as our newly ordained Father Mark takes his first priestly steps.
The martyric witness of the Royal Martyrs has a special place in the spirituality of our Russian Church Outside of Russia, being important to many who are converts to the Orthodox Christian Faith, and who value the New-Martyrs, and their faithfulness in the face of persecution and suffering.
We see the Mystery of the Cross in their lives and suffering of the Royal Martyrs, insulted, maligned, mocked and demonised, living as Christians and dying as Christians – following in the footsteps of their Lord and Saviour, and experiencing their Golgotha for Christ.
As Orthodox people, we should look to them as shining exemplars of the Christian family – especially in an age in which woke-ism and political expediency militate against traditional family life and Christian values.
We turn to them as intercessors in our struggle, refusing to bow down to the idols and spirit of the world, but rather struggling to preserve the Christian message and the Light of Christ.
“We magnify you, O holy royal martyrs and passion-bearers, and we honour your venerable sufferings, which ye endured for Christ.”
Ode I, Irmos: Come, O ye people, * let us sing a song to Christ our God, * Who divided the sea, * and made a way for the nation * which He had brought up out of the bondage of Egypt; * for He hath been glorified.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The discourse granted me is in nowise capable of hymnody, О all-pure one, for the darkness of my sins doth cover me; yet accept my limitations, О Birthgiver of God.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
I finally flee from my countless sins to thy protection, О most pure one. Render our God and Master easily reconciled with me, and save me, О pure one.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Thou art my fervent mercy-seat, Lady, and, fleeing to thee, I am saved and obtain salvation of soul; for thou canst do all things, in that thou art the Mother of the God of all.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
The deceiver of souls hath lured me into the pit of destruction; but stretch forth to me thy mighty hand, О Virgin Theotokos, and quickly lead me up to the light.
Ode III, Irmos: O Lord, who didst slay sin upon the tree, * firmly establish us in Thee, * and in the hearts of us who hymn Thee * plant the fear of Thee.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Having fallen among many thieves, wretch that I am, I have been stripped naked, wounded and left for dead; but disdain me not, О pure Theotokos.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The serpent who wrought deception through the tree stripped Adam naked, and hath now easily made my soul captive. Yet I entreat thee, О Lady: Have pity on me!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
I now bring my secret deeds before thee, my true intercessor and protection, that thy Son may not denounce me with them at His righteous judgment.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Have mercy, О pure one, have mercy, for we derive no salvation from our deeds. Wherefore, with ardent faith we cry out to thee: Have mercy upon thy servants!
Ode IV, Irmos: I hymn Thee, O Lord, for I have heard report of Thee, * and I was afraid; * for Thou comest to me, seeking me who am lost. * Wherefore, I glorify Thy great condescension towards me, * O greatly Merciful One.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Disdain me not who am incurably ill and infirm, О Lady; but grant unto me the oil of thy goodness, О Virgin, and enrich me with thoughts of thee, as with incorruptible gold from God.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
I have been stripped bare of all good works and lie arrayed in evils more than all who fell of old; but do thou now adorn me with good deeds and deliver me from wickedness, О Bride of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
In word and with my will, I have surpassed the harlot in fornication and the publican in usury; yet before the end grant that I may acquire the repentance of both, О Lady.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
I have dwelt in the desert of grief and have withdrawn from thee, О Birthgiver of God. Who shall give me wings, that I may fly and go to thee, my hope, who dost save me from faintheartedness, wretch that I am?
Ode V, Irmos: O Lord, Bestower of light and Creator of the ages: * guide us in the light of Thy commandments, * for we know none other God than Thee.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
In that the never-waning Light shone forth from thy womb upon those on earth, О Lady, illumine my fetid soul, and drive all darkness from my heart, О pure one.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The cruel night of my wicked and evil deeds covereth me, O Lady; yet I cry out to thee: Guide me to the divine light of thy Son and Master, О all-hymned one.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О pure one, accept me as thy Son, the Creator of all, accepted the prodigal son, for I cry out with him: I have truly sinned! Save me, О Lady!
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
In that thou art merciful, О most pure one, heal thou my heart, which hath been wounded by the assaults of the evil one, for thou hast ineffably given birth to Him Who was wounded in the flesh upon the Cross.
Ode VI, Irmos: Whirled about in the abyss of sin, * I appeal to the unfathomable abyss of Thy compassion: * Raise me up from corruption, O God.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
I have fallen into the pit of sin and, held fast by fear, I cannot lift my gaze to our unforgettable God; yet I cast myself down before thee, О Bride of God.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
By thine omnipotent supplication, О Virgin Theotokos, pilot my heart, which hath been grievously covered by the waves of mine incomprehensible transgressions.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
In that thou art my confirmation, О Lady, grant that I may behold the beauty of thy glory when my soul shall be separated from my flesh, that I may thus know remission.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
By thy prayers to God deliver thy servants, who have recourse to thee with faith, from perils, misfortunes and sorrows, О holy Lady.
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 II: We magnify thee, O Theotokos, crying aloud: * Thou art the un-burnt bush, * wherein Moses beheld as a flame ** the Fire of the Divinity.
Ode VII, Irmos: When the golden image was worshipped on the plain of Dura, * Thy three children spurned the impious command, * and, cast into the midst of the flame, * they were bedewed, and sang: * O God of our fathers, Blessed art Thou!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Gaping wide, the enemy now strives to devour me, for from every quarter he brings temptations and snares to bear upon me, wholly cutting off my progress; yet anticipating my need, О Virgin Mother, deliver me from his wicked assaults.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The adversary defiles and vexes my senses and mind, striving to drag me down into the pit of despair; wherefore, I cry out to thee alone: О Bride of God, my refuge, deliver me from the hands of the evil one!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О my Christ Who art Thyself the Word, Who of old delivered the three youths from the furnace, by the supplications of Thy Mother who knew not wedlock, bedew me and deliver me from the flame which I have enkindled by my boundless evil deeds.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Coming upon my material heart, the corrupter hath slain it; but by thy divine power cause rain to fall upon me, О Mother who knewest not wedlock, and grant that I may vanquish him, that I may cry out to thee with faith: Blessed art thou who hast given birth to God in the flesh.
Ode VIII, Irmos: God Who descended into the fiery furnace * with the Hebrew children, * and transformed the flame into dew, * do ye works hymn, * and supremely exalt as Lord throughout all ages.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Cruelly buried beneath my many evils and weighed down by the multitude of sins, I dare not in anywise lift up mine eyes to heaven, but cry out to thee: Have mercy upon me who have fallen, О only Theotokos!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
I have fallen under the wrath of thy Son and God, О pure one. Deliver me, and in the hour when He shall conduct the trial, be thou my helper, О most pure one, and deliver me from standing with the goats on the left side.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О Maiden Bride of God, raise me up who have been spiritually slain by my countless sins, and by thy supplication deliver me from all the deception of the soul-corrupting enemy and murderer.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
How hast thou besmirched thy pristine beauty with evil, О my incorrigible and wicked soul? How hast thou broken all thy promises to thy Creator and accepted evils? Yet go thou and hasten with piety to the Theotokos.
Ode IX, Irmos: God the Word, God of God, * Who by ineffable wisdom came to create Adam anew * after his grievous fall to corruption through eating * and Who took flesh beyond all telling from the Holy Virgin for our sake, * Him we faithful with one accord magnify in song.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
I have truly defiled my senses with grievous actions and am wholly filled with shameful deeds; but cleanse me, О most pure one, asking that I be granted time for goodly compunction, that I may unceasingly magnify thee.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
When the hidden deeds of everyone shall be revealed, О Theotokos, be my justification, since thou truly hast the power to do so, and deliver me from darkness, that by thy prayers I may dwell in the land of light, where there is ineffable joy.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
I beseech Thee, О Word: Before Thy final coming grant me fervent repentance, tearful compunction, chastity and humility, divine love, and a place in Thy flock, through the prayers of her who gave birth to Thee.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
О Virgin who dost surpass all noetic and material beings in glory and honour, except for God, disdain me not who have surpassed in transgressions all people, past and present, who have sinned on the earth; and by thy prayer save me.
Having spent time preparing for Deacon Mark’s ordination, this week’s news is not only a little late, but being sent from the passenger seat of Deacon Mark’s car, as he, matushka, Yuriy and I travel to London. I will return on Friday, to be able to celebrate Great Vespers for the summer feast of the Kazan Icon in the Oratory Church, on Saturday afternoon.
It is a great joy to have so many of the faithful travelling to London for the ordination, and being able to share this wonderful occasion on the altar feast of the lower cathedral. There will be over thirty of the Cardiff faithful from South Wales and Wessex, as well as former South Wales faithful who now live in the South West and West of England.
Those who have booked the bus from Deacon Mark’s office in Morganstown should remember that 05:30 is departure time, and not assembly time. The bus will leave at 05:30 and will collect additional faithful at Premier Inn, at the Coldra junction in Newport at 06:00. Return to South Wales will be at 15:00.
The newly-ordained priest Mark will remain in London until Saturday, taking his first steps of priestly celebration, and I will remain with him until Friday.
After a demanding few days in London, Sunday’s summer feast of the Kazan Icon will be low key, especially given the absence of parishioners already away due to family commitments or on holiday. We pray for Nataliya as she prepares to travel; for Svetlana, Anna and Sofia, who are in Russia; and for Svetlana (Bromley) who is working away at the moment. We will keep the Autumn feast as our altar feast, when parishioners can be together.
We greatly look forward to Sunday’s Liturgy, and Father Mark’s first priestly Liturgy in Cardiff, with Father Luke and some of the Llanelli faithful joining us. As Fr Mark will be able to perform the proskomedia, there will be much more time for confessions. So… I will hear confessions in St Alban’s Church on Saturday and St John’s from 10:10 on Sunday.
I shall be in Norfolk from Monday to Friday the following week, fulfilling my summer Walsingham duties, and look forward to enjoying some time on pilgrimage.
May I please make a plea for help setting up on Sundays, as some weeks see us with hardly any assistance. Given that Father Mark the Younger will now be performing proskomedia, his attention will be needed in preparing the Holy Gifts and not on moving and arranging furniture/furnishings.
Thanks to all who contributed to our services over the end of week and weekend, when we celebrated a joyful Liturgy for the feast of Saints Peter and Paul in the Oratory Church, with the Synaxis of the Holy Apostles in Warminster the following day, and then – of course – the Sunday of All Russian Saints in Cardiff.
We also celebrated the baptism of baby Yuriy from Basingstoke, baptised in Cardiff soo that his father’s relatives could be part of the celebration. Thanks to our sisters, who stayed in church till the end, carrying baptismal water to the garden, as well as feeding the clergy.
Ode I, Irmos: In the deep of old the infinite Power overwhelmed Pharaoh’s whole army. * But the Incarnate Word annihilated pernicious sin. * Exceedingly glorious is the Lord, * for gloriously hath He been glorified.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
With the Archangel Gabriel the Church offereth in hymnody an ever-flowering wreath of praise, which sprang forth through the Spirit unto thee, the Bride of God, О pure one, chanting “Rejoice!” and crowning thee with honour.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Having cultivated Christ God, the life-bearing vine, О all-hymned Mother of God, thou wast revealed to be the holy ground of the Father in a manner transcending understanding, watering the whole world with life-bearing drink, О pure one, full of the grace of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О most pure one, thou hast given birth to the God of the whole world which is cruelly battered and engulfed by the waves of transgressions, the Lord of us all, Christ the Helmsman, Who faithfully pilots us to the haven of salvation.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
We all faithfully entreat thee, О Mary, Mother of God, thou refuge and city of salvation, and we fervently make supplication unto thee: Accept the entreaties of us thy servants, and release us all from the condemnation of transgressions.
Ode III, Irmos: O Lord, who didst slay sin upon the tree, * firmly establish us in Thee, * and in the hearts of us who hymn Thee * plant the fear of Thee.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The beguilement of Eve was the beginning of the estrangement between God and mortals; but the holy Theotokos hath led us back to God.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The glorious Joachim begat thee, the treasury of Life, for the world, О all-hymned one, and he rejoiceth in thee, his goodly offspring, for thou didst come as the expectation of thy barren parents.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
From Anna hath joy blossomed forth for our race. Thou hast given birth to the King as a Virgin. And women, released from the curse by thee, rejoice in thy birthgiving.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
The bush on Sinai prefigured Thy most glorious birthgiving, О Virgin; for, receiving the fire of the Godhead within thy womb, О pure one, thou wast not consumed.
Ode IV, Irmos: I have heard report O Lord, * of Thy glorious dispensation, * and I have glorified, Thine unapproachable power, * O Lover of mankind.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
In a godly manner Jacob foresaw thee as a ladder, О Virgin, upon whose summit God established Himself.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Through thee, О most pure one, was the descent of the angels revealed beforehand to signify the advent of the Word to us.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Blessed is thy womb and thy breasts, О all-hymned Virgin; for, for their sake, we have all found Life.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
With Orthodox voices we mystically hymn thee, О Mother of God, for by thy supplications the Church is preserved.
Ode V, Irmos: O Christ my Saviour, the enlightenment of those lying in the darkness of sin. * I rise early to hymn Thee O King of Peace, * enlighten me with Thy radiance, * for I know no other God than Thee.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
We hymn thee, О Mary Theotokos, as one more honourable than the ark of the law, for thou, О all-hymned one, didst bear the Creator and God of all like the tablets of the law.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
We glorify thee as the throne of God the Word, sitting upon which, God hath revealed Himself as a man; and thou hast become more exalted than the cherubim.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Thou hast released the whole race of mankind from bitter bondage, О Virgin, and hast honoured the nature of women with the freedom of Christ in thy divine birthgiving.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Thou hast given birth to the Son, О Virgin, and women manifestly vanquish the enemy; wherefore, holding fast to virginity, they hasten to thee, О Maiden.
Ode VI, Irmos: Whirled about in the abyss of sin, * I appeal to the unfathomable abyss of Thy compassion: * Raise me up from corruption, O God.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
With the angel we faithfully cry out to thee: Rejoice, О pure virgin, thou joy of the world! Grant us thy joy, and do away with our grief!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Unto us who with faith praise thee, the dwelling-place of joy which cannot be taken away, О Ever-virgin Mother, grant thy joy and do away with our grief.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
In thy divine glory thou hast been revealed to be a heaven more exalted than the heavens, О Bride of God; for making His abode within thee, our God hath appeared unto me.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Now doth the nature of women rejoice! Now doth grief cease to be and joy hath blossomed forth! For Mary hath given birth to joy: Christ, our God and Saviour.
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 II: Looking upon the grievous slothfulness of my soul and the utter weakness of my heart, О Mother of God, heal me by thy supplications and grant me the portion of the saved, delivering me from darkness and torment, in that thou alone art my hope and consolation.
Ode VII, Irmos: When the golden image was worshipped on the plain of Dura, * Thy three children spurned the impious command, * and, cast into the midst of the flame, * they were bedewed, and sang: * O God of our fathers, Blessed art Thou!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The fleece of Gideon prefigured the descent of the Word of God upon thee, О pure one, for thou didst accept conception like dew, О incorrupt Virgin. Wherefore, we all cry out to thee: Blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, О pure one.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
New and awesome, full of faith and wondrous are thy mysteries, О Mary, Mother of Christ our God; for through thee have we all been reconciled with God the Master; and we chant now with the angels: Blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, О pure one.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Of old Gideon manifestly foretold thy divine birthgiving, О pure one, setting forth a bowl full of water from the wringing out of the fleece; for God dwelt wholly within thee, О most pure one. Blessed is the Fruit of thy womb.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
In giving birth to the God and Saviour of all, О Mary, thou didst become the correction of the despairing, the restoration of sinners, the hope of the hopeless and the help of those who chant: Blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, О pure one.
Ode VIII, Irmos: God Who descended into the fiery furnace * with the Hebrew children, * and transformed the flame into dew, * do ye works hymn, * and supremely exalt as Lord throughout all ages.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou hast been revealed to be a new garden of paradise, containing the tree of Life, not that of death, О most holy Theotokos; for like a garden thou didst seedlessly produce the Lord, through Whom we all partake of immortal life.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The whole Church of Christ doth hymn thy birthgiving, О Theotokos, for all who flee to thee with love, sinners and poor folk alike, are saved; for Christ hath come to earth to save mankind.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Through thee, О Virgin Theotokos, thy first mother hath been freed from condemnation. And, lo! women now suffer for Christ, and female nature rejoiceth, as Thecla, the first martyred woman, doth exclaim.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
No one hath perished who in an Orthodox manner hath acquired the hope of faith in thee, О pure Virgin Mother of God; but he is cast aside who with jealousy refuses to venerate thy depicted image.
Ode IX, Irmos: Thee do we magnify, O blessed and all-pure Theotokos, * who through thy virginal womb ineffably brought forth * God incarnate, * the Luminary Who shone forth before the sun * and hath come to us in the flesh.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
О most holy Virgin, incline thine ear unto me who with faith hymn thy birthgiving with words of praise; and, accepting the hymnody of my lips like the widow’s gift, ask for the forgiveness of my sins.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thy beauty shineth forth, emitting the radiance of purity, О pure one; and thy birthgiving shineth even more than these, for God, the Creator of the sun and all creation, hath been born from thee. Wherefore, we all magnify thee.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Divinely chanting in hymns with a voice of praise, О Theotokos, we beseech thee, the light of purity, the staff of virginity and Mother of God: establish us in virginity and preserve us in purity.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
In that thou hadst preserved thy body and soul undefiled for God, О pure one, Christ the King desired thy beauty and showed thee to be the Mother of His incarnation, accomplishing my salvation, О most glorious Mary.
Ode I, Irmos: In the deep of old the infinite Power overwhelmed Pharaoh’s whole army. * But the Incarnate Word annihilated pernicious sin. * Exceedingly glorious is the Lord, * for gloriously hath He been glorified.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Having taken our form from thee, the never-setting Sun manifestly showed thee forth as a noetic and most splendid heaven. Wherefore, deliver me from the stench of the passions, that with love I may hymn thee, the only Virgin Mother.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
I beseech thee, О Lady, who art the tongs which held the noetic Ember which hath purified human nature: Wash away the defilement of my manifold transgressions, and by thy supplications deliver me from defiling passions.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О most pure Theotokos, who hast given birth to Christ, the Wellspring of mercy, and hast opened Eden to mankind: open unto me the portals of thy mercy, and grant me forgiveness offences, О Sovereign Lady of the world.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Rend asunder the bonds of my transgressions, О Ever-virgin Lady, entreating thy Son and God; and cast down sin which oppresseth me, that, saved, I may ever hymn thee, О most immaculate one.
Ode III, Irmos: Thou hast established me on the rock of faith, * and my mouth hath been emboldened against mine enemies. * For my spirit rejoiceth when I sing: * There is none as holy as our God * and none more righteous than Thee, O Lord.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Dispel the gloom and darkness of my passions with the rays of thy supplications, and enlighten me, О most pure Lady who hast given birth to Christ, the never-setting Sun Who shone forth from the Sun before the morning-star.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
By thy birthgiving, О most pure one, thou hast restored the fallen and broken tabernacle of David thy father; wherefore, О Theotokos, raise me up, thy servant, who am crushed by transgressions and the passions.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Be thou a sword, О Virgin, driving away the sins and passions of my soul, and show me to be another garden of paradise, preserved by thee un- assailed, offering thee the flowers of the Spirit.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Stretching forth the hand of compassions, receive me, О Birthgiver of God, and from all condemnation rescue me who flee to thee, and falling down before thee, call upon thine aid.
Ode IV, Irmos: I hymn Thee, O Lord, for I have heard report of Thee, * and I was afraid; * for Thou comest to me, seeking me who am lost. * Wherefore, I glorify Thy great condescension towards me, * O greatly Merciful One.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Taking the leaven of human nature like dough, the Creator made it undefiled and holy; and washing me clean of the defilement of the passions, He hath cleansed me of the mire of my transgressions.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
With the remedy of thy prayers, as with bandages and oil, О pure Lady, heal now the stripes of my soul and the wounds of sin, in that thou hast given birth to the divine Healing of nature.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Loose thou the bonds of my passions, О Lady, and cleave asunder the chains of my sins with the sword of thy prayers, О thou who hast given birth to Christ Who granteth deliverance to those bound in Hades.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Cure thou the passions of my soul which most wretchedly shroud me in gloom, and enlighten my thoughts, О pure one, driving far away the darkness of the demons who oppress me and who lay traps for me all the day long.
Ode V, Irmos: O Christ my Saviour, the enlightenment of those lying in the darkness of sin. * I rise early to hymn Thee O King of Peace, * enlighten me with Thy radiance, * for I know no other God than Thee.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou hast delivered the world from the ancient curse, О Lady who hast given birth to Christ, the Blessing of the world. Deliver me from unseemly thoughts and from all grief, for thou alone art the joy of the faithful.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
A horde of demons surroundeth the city of my soul, striving mightily to take it captive. О most glorious Lady, thou city of the King of all, defend me by thy supplications as with entowered ramparts, and save me.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
The cruel storm of the sedition of the spirits of evil doth trouble my mind. Quickly anticipate my need, and still it, О thou who hast given birth to Christ, the only almighty Helmsman of all creation.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
О Birthgiver of God, shine the light of repentance upon me who am enclosed in the darkness of perdition. Give a helping hand to me who lie prostrate, and by thy supplications raise me up, О pure one, that I may accomplish the judgments of God.
Ode VI, Irmos: Whirled about in the abyss of sin, * I appeal to the unfathomable abyss of Thy compassion: * Raise me up from corruption, O God.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
As thou hast given birth to Life everlasting, О most pure one, when my soul departeth from my body, slay death by thy supplications.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The serpent who hates mankind pursues me, subjecting me to trials. О Lady, set him at naught, for thou hast given birth to Him Who crushed the heads of the serpents.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
О thou who hast given birth to Christ our God, the Way of life, to the straight path direct me who walk with faltering steps.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Heal the sufferings of my soul and vanquish the perplexity of grief, О most pure one who hast given birth to God, for our salvation.
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 II: As the wellspring of loving-kindness, О Theotokos, grant mercy unto us. Look upon the people who have sinned, and show forth, as ever, thy power; for, trusting in thee, we cry out to thee: Rejoice!’’, as once did Gabriel, the supreme commander of the incorporeal beings.
Ode VII, Irmos: The wise children did not adore the golden idol, * but went themselves into the flame and defied the pagan gods. * They prayed in the midst of the flame, * and an Angel bedewed them saying: * ‘The prayer of your lips hath been heard’.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The waves of the passions trouble my mind and shake my soul; yet, О Virgin who hast given birth to Him Who by His divine command restrained the raging sea, transport me to the tranquility of dispassion and halt the turmoil of my flesh.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Knowing thee to be the gate of the noetic East who hast appeared from heaven, О Virgin. I, thy servant, pray that through thee I might enter into the heavens. Wherefore, accept me, О Lady, and guide me by thy light.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Crucified on the Cross of His own will, Christ thy Son put the princes of darkness to shame and destroyed the corrupting power of death. Thereby, О most pure Lady, do thou slay the passion-plagued understanding of my flesh.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Cease not, О pure one, to pray to God Who was born from thee, on behalf of those who approach thee with faith and ask deliverance, О only helper of the world, for thou art the hope and help of the despairing and the aid of those who are ever tempest-tossed amid evils.
Ode VIII, Irmos: Disdaining the golden image, the thrice-blessed children, * beholding the immutable and living image of God, * chanted in the midst of the flame: * Let all existing creation hymn the Lord * and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
О Virgin, thou divinely made tabernacle of the Holy of holies, of Him Who set thee forth as the image of the ancient tabernacle, having the great High Priest in thy midst: Show my heart to be a holy tabernacle of the Most High: Christ, the King of all.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Having borne, О Virgin, the divine ark and the tablets of the law: the most pure Word of God, Christ, thine uncircumscribable Son: by thy prayers, as with the finger of God, inscribe Him upon the surface of my soul.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As from a mountain the precious Stone hath been cut from thy womb, О most immaculate Lady, and as the only Almighty One He hath broken the pillars of all falsehood. Thereby do thou now destroy the images of the passions of my soul, having broken the jaws of the noetic foe.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
With the waters of life, О Virgin Theotokos, water thou my heart which hath been seared by the flame of sin, ever preserving me in compunction, who chant with fear: Let all existing creation hymn the Lord and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!
Ode IX, Irmos: Thee do we magnify, O blessed and all-pure Theotokos, * who through thy virginal womb ineffably brought forth * God incarnate, * the Luminary Who shone forth before the sun * and hath come to us in the flesh.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou didst shine forth Christ, the Sun of righteousness, О pure one, showing thyself to be a most radiant heaven. By thy supplications destroy the night of my passions, illumine my soul, and enlighten and make bright my heart.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Condemn and trample underfoot mine adversary, О Theotokos, and deliver me from his oppression; for thou hast given birth to the Good and Righteous One Who resteth in the bosom of the Godhead and hath condemned death.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
He Who as God formed the essence of the incorporeal ones became incarnate from thee, О Virgin Maiden. Wherefore, by thy supplications deliver me, thy servant, from the evil circumstances and the carnal understanding of the passions of the flesh.
Now & ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Thou hast done away with the grief of Eve, having given birth to the new Adam Who created the nature of the first Adam. Wherefore, erase also with the record of my transgressions, freeing me from perils, sorrows and the passions.
Sunday 11 August N.S.
During this time the Israelite nation had fallen away from the faith of their Fathers, they abandoned the One God and worshipped pagan idols, the worship of which was introduced by the impious king Jereboam. Jezebel, the wife of king Ahab, was devoted to idol worship. She persuaded her husband to build a temple to the pagan god Baal, which led many Israelites away from the worship of the true God. Beholding the ruin of his nation, the Prophet Elijah began to denounce King Ahab for impiety, and exhorted him to repent and turn to the God of Israel. The king would not listen to him. The Prophet Elijah then declared to him, that as punishment there would be neither rain nor dew upon the ground, and the drought would cease only by his prayer. Indeed, the word of Elijah was a torch (Eccles. 48: 1). The heavens were closed for three and a half years, and there was drought and famine throughout all the land.
Dear brothers and sisters,
Ode I, Irmos: Come, O ye people, * let us sing a song to Christ our God, * Who divided the sea, * and made a way for the nation * which He had brought up out of the bondage of Egypt; * for He hath been glorified.
Dear brothers and sisters,