Ode I, Canon of the Theotokos, the acrostic whereof is: “Rejoice, O abode of joy, release from grief,” the composition of John, in Tone VIII:
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.
Rejoice deliverance from the ancient curse and wellspring of blessings! Rejoice, Mother of Life, destruction of Hades, slaying of death! Rejoice, release from sorrow, spacious dwelling-place of joy! Rejoice O all-praised Theotokos!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice all-immaculate one, thou noetic and animate chariot of the Word! Rejoice, chariot of many names, who art called chariot by the myriads of angels! Rejoice, thou who art incontestably more exalted than the cherubim and surpassest the seraphim!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice Bride of God, who art more sacred than the noetic hosts and higher than all created nature! Rejoice, thou palace of God! Rejoice, fiery throne! Rejoice, O Sovereign Lady, who art so called by the myriads of angels!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice undefiled one, who put forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse! Rejoice, offshoot of the rod of Aaron, which, prefiguring thee mystically and profoundly of old, yielded almonds, as thou didst blossom forth Christ.
Canon of the Saint, the acrostic whereof is: “I hymn thee, the divine harp all of gold,” the composition of Joseph, in Tone VI:
Irmos: The Red Sea was parted by a blow from the staff of Moses, * and the deep with its Waves became dry, * becoming a path to the unarmed people of Israel, * but to the fully armed ones it became a grave. * A hymn of Praise well-pleasing to God was sung: * gloriously hath Christ our God been glorified.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Ever standing with all the elect before the throne of God, full of unwaning radiance, O venerable one, pray thou that peace and great mercy be granted to us who with faith honor thee and celebrate thy divine return.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The earth danceth and heaven rejoiceth in godly fashion with all mankind, on thy hol feast, whereon thy sacred body was returned to thy flock, O glorious Chrysostom, precious habitation of the Spirit.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The greatly crafty one could not bear the divine brilliance of thy mind, O blessed one, and raised up temptations against thee, as he had against Job of old; even so, he became greatly darkened, for, lo! after thy banishment, O most luminous one, thou didst return to thy flock.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
With thy most golden words hast thou gilded the thoughts of the faithful, Chrysostom; and being banished from thy flock out of hatred, at the behest of God thou hast been returned to them after thy burial, O radiantly praised, all-blessed Chrysostom.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Having given birth unto the most holy God, thou wast shown to be more holy than the Cherubim. Him do thou entreat as the Creator of all, that He sanctify all who bless thee with holy voices, O pure one, thou boast of the fathers and help of mankind.
Another Canon of the Saint, the acrostic whereof is: “I chant a third hymn to him of the golden tongue,” in Tone III:
Irmos: He who of old gathered the waters * into one by His divine decree, * divided the sea for the people of Israel. * For He is our God and supremely glorious, * to Him alone let us sing, for He hath been glorified.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
O God-proclaiming mouth, instrument of golden sound, with the splendor of thy words and thine entreaties enlighten my mind, that I may hymn the memory of thy return, O John, thou namesake of divine grace.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Having set beneath the earth, following the laws of nature, like a brilliant star, like the sun which enlighteneth men, like a luminary of piety, O venerable one, thou hast shone forth again upon us, thy children, emitting abundant rays of miracles.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Thou didst fill the whole world with teachings by thy tongue of golden eloquence; and thou hast illumined all with the golden members of healings, causing the darkness of sufferings to vanish by thy return, O venerable one.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Uttering divine things, thou didst speak of the Word, One Hypostasis, even though He issued forth from the most pure one in two natures, assuming flesh. Her do we bless unceasingly and glorify with faith, O divine Chrysostom.
Ode III, Canon of the Theotokos, 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.
Rejoice, O Lady; most mighty weapon of the faithful! Rejoice, mighty intercession! Rejoice, O help! Rejoice, aid of sinners! Rejoice, rampart for those who call upon thee! Rejoice, thou joy of the world!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, mighty confirmation of man’s salvation! Rejoice, restoration of Adam and Eve, through whom they have regained the ancient inheritance! Rejoice, thou who hast opened paradise again!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, bush unburnt! Rejoice, chariot of the Light! Rejoice, cloud of the Sun! Rejoice, most glorious throne of the King, proclaimed in every place! Rejoice, animate city of Christ the Living God!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O pure Sovereign Lady, Mother who hast not known wedlock! Rejoice, meadow unploughed and un-harrowed, which produced the Husbandman of all! Rejoice, land which shone forth the Truth!
Canon I of the Saint, Irmos: O Lord Thou art the God and Creator of all, * becoming poor, Thou hast united Thyself * without passion to a creature, * and offered Thyself as a Passover * for those for whom Thou wast soon to die; * crying: ‘Eat My Body, * and ye shall be firmly established in the faith.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou wast a pure habitation of God fathoming the depths of dogma, O blessed Chrysostom, overwhelming the hearts of the faithful. Wherefore, we celebrate today thine honored return.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou wast a golden instrument sounding forth things ineffable for us, O blessed Chrysostom. Wherefore, we hymn thee with faith at the return of thy relics, O earthly angel of God and heavenly man.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Words of life didst thou utter for us; even though thou wast unjustly envied and driven into a distant exile, and subjected to many tribulations. Yet at the behest of the Creator, thou hast been returned to thy flock after thy repose.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Who can describe the height and depth of thine ineffable birthgiving, O Maiden? For, in a manner surpassing description and comprehension, thou hast given birth unto God, Who hath delivered mankind from corruption. Wherefore, all we, the faithful, rightly bless thee.
Canon II of the Saint, Irmos: O Most High, Ruler of all, * who out of nothing hath established all things, * fashioned by Thy Word, * perfected by the Spirit, * confirm me in Thy love.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The blinded empress hid thee, the most radiant lamp, in caves of banishment; but Christ, having returned thee, hath placed thee upon a most lofty lampstand.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou hast returned, O John Chrysostom, letting flow streams of miracles, pouring forth rivers of healing upon those who with faith honor the memory of thy return.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
The golden Nile hath returned, flooding forth in discourse and wonders. Let us all make haste and with faith abundantly draw therefrom, that we may be satisfied in all things.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Earthly nature is unable to hymn thee, whom the angels hymn as the one who hath given birth unto God in the flesh; yet we, thy servants, with faith, boldly hymn and glorify thee.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Sessional Hymn, in Tone VIII: Spec. Mel.: “Of the wisdom …”: Having come to know the wisdom which is from on high and the grace of words issuing from God, thou didst shine forth upon all like gold in the crucible, and preaching the Holy Trinity in Unity, thou didst shoot down the delusion of avarice with the arrows of thy words. Wherefore, having denounced the empress with zeal, and having put to shame the alien philosophy of Arius, O John Chrysostom, entreat Christ God, to grant forgiveness of sins to those who celebrate thy holy memory with love. (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 in Tone VIII: Having conceived One of the Trinity in a manner transcending nature, O Virgin, and wondrously given birth to Him in a manner surpassing description and comprehension, thou didst cause human nature, which of old had been driven forth, to share in the divine Nature. Wherefore, O all-immaculate one, all we who have been saved by thy birthgiving, assembling, duly call thee blessed, following thy words, and entreating Christ God, that He grant forgiveness of sins unto those who with faith glorify His Mother.
Ode IV, Canon of the Theotokos, 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.
O thou orient of the effulgence of the Father, and sun of Him Who shone forth from the Father before the morning star: Rejoice, O Virgin Theotokos, light and animate cloud! Rejoice, O Mother! Rejoice, O blessed one! Rejoice, most glorious and immaculate one!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou, O Sovereign Lady, art the golden censer of the unbearable and immaterial Ember, by Whom the document of Adam’s disobedience, hath been rent asunder, and set afire. Wherefore, I cry to thee: Rejoice, thou through whom joy, the sweetness and acquisition of paradise, hath been granted unto all!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou art the glory, honor and boast of mankind, and the crown and diadem of the angels. Wherefore, heaven and earth, the single Church, cries aloud to thee a multimodal hymn: Rejoice, O Sovereign Lady of the world! Rejoice, thou help of all mankind!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
O honored couch which Solomon described of old, surrounded by the mighty sixty: Rejoice, O Virgin, golden ark of noetic sanctity! Rejoice, O divine tongs! Rejoice, fire-bearing bush! Rejoice, O gate, ladder and bridge!
Canon I of the Saint, Irmos: The prophet, foreseeing thine ineffable mystery, O Christ, * declared: Thou hast set forth the mighty grace of baptism, * unto all who receive it with faith, * for deliverance from our sins!
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Having acquired a mouth and tongue of fiery inspiration, thou didst manifestly expand the understanding of Scripture, and dying in an unjust exile O venerable father, thy blessed body hath today been bestowed upon us as a gift.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Let Chrysostom now be magnified, the expounder of things ineffable; for, lo! after his temporal death, at the good behest of God, he entereth the Imperial City again, sacredly honored with divine hymns.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Possessing a mind illumined with the radiance of the all-holy Spirit, thou dost enlighten the earth with divine teachings, dispelling the darkness of impiety, O sacred father Chrysostom, converser with the holy angels.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou wast shown to be blessed for righteousness’ sake, O venerable one, having been driven from thy flock by wicked envy; yet, returning now, thou art honored by all with sacred hymns, O wise Chrysostom, holy hierarch of the Lord.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Through thee, O Virgin, salvation hath come and appeared to the world, even Christ, our Redemption Who hath shown forth from thee. Wherefore, we hymn thee as is meet, O pure one, thou boast of the sacred and sanctified habitations of the faithful.
Canon II of the Saint, Irmos: Thou hast shown us steadfast in love, O Lord, * for Thou gavest Thine only-begotten Son over to death for our sake. * Wherefore with thanksgiving we cry unto Thee, * ‘Glory to Thy power, O Lord!’
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
O ye who love discourse, come, and let us honor with sacred words the great adorner of words, who hath now joyfully returned and who with wisdom of words denounced the babblers of vain and ignorant words.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
O Chrysostom, enriching us with a wealth of teachings, thou didst tightly restrain the way of greed, alone, denouncing clearly by the abundance of divine grace, her who was laden with wealth.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
The bow of the cruel and tyrannical mighty hath been broken; for having lived angelically in the weakness of the flesh, thou hast prevailed, O most sacred Chrysostom, having as petitioners those who before were persecutors.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
The noetic ranks praise thee with hymnody, O Maiden, for they are unable to look upon Him Whom thou didst bear from thy pure womb, and without change assumed flesh, O all-pure Bride of God.
Ode V, Canon of the Theotokos, Irmos: O Light never-waning, * why hast Thou turned Thy face from me * and why has 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.
Grant that without grief I may pass the noetic princes, the aerial hordes of tormentors, at the hour of my departure, O Sovereign Lady, that I may joyfully cry to thee: Rejoice! rejoice, O unashamed hope of all!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O most immaculate one! Rejoice, O most pure one, in that thou didst conceive our Joy! Rejoice, purple bloom of purity, sweetly scented! Rejoice, scarlet rose of virginity, dyed red, and sweet-smelling fragrance of God!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O mystic phial which poureth forth myrrh of sweet savor! Rejoice, divine wellspring gushing forth living water! Rejoice, thou who didst bring forth the fruit of the grapes of life, O Sovereign Lady, thou vine uncultivated!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O impassable Gate through which Christ the Lord passed! Rejoice, thou who by thy birthgiving hast opened the portals of paradise! Rejoice, thou on whose account the heavens rejoice and earth doth dance, thou who hast united things above with things below.
Canon I of the Saint, Irmos: Bound with the bond of love, * the apostles, having offered themselves to Christ, the Master of all, * had their comely feet cleansed by Him, * proclaiming peace unto all.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou hast been shown to be a lamp shining upon all who are in the night of life, casting light upon and illumining our thoughts with the beams of thy divine words, O father Chrysostom. Wherefore, we hymn thee as is meet.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou didst distribute a wealth of discourse, enriching starved minds, O venerable one of golden speech; and, exiled unjustly, by righteous judgment thou hast been returned again to thy flock, which rejoiceth in thy great accomplishments.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Like a bountiful branch thou didst produce the wine of compunction; and, for denouncing the empress who confiscated the widow’s vineyard, thou wast banished, O father Chrysostom. Wherefore, we honor thy return.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Him Whom the armies of the incorporeal angels cannot see, O Lady, Who lay in thine embrace as an Infant, and Who abased Himself by assuming flesh, didst thou bear, that, so impoverishing Himself, He might enrich the world.
Canon II of the Saint Irmos: I rise at dawn unto Thee, * the Creator of all, * surpassing all worldly understanding; * for Thy commandments are light, * wherein do Thou guide me.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou hast been shown to be like the springtime, mystically perfuming the multitudes of the faithful, with the flowers of grace, dispelling the winter of evil in thy return, O father.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Streaming forth divine things, the wellspring of divine gifts hath returned. Come divinely jubilant, ye who thirst, and draw forth the water of life with faith!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
The Church of Christ crieth out to thee who hast returned: “Woe is me! For thou, my beauty, hath hid thyself, Yet, O desired one, thou hast returned to me in due time.”
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O all-immaculate one, render merciful to me Him Who came forth from thy womb, the incarnate Word, Whom Simeon, holding in his arms in the temple, magnified as the Creator.
Ode VI, Canon of the Theotokos, Irmos: I will pour out my prayer unto the Lord, * and to Him will I proclaim my grief; * for my soul is filled with evils, * and my life unto Hades hath drawn nigh, * and like Jonah I pray unto Thee: * Raise me up from corruption, O God.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O Lady, animate vessel, the scarlet that dyed a purple robe for the King of all by thy most pure blood and hast covered the nakedness of Adam! Rejoice, O all-praised one!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Tangible bread by nature strengtheneth men’s hearts, O Maiden; and thy holy and hymned name maketh steadfast Christian souls. Hence, every tongue doth joyfully cry out to thee: Rejoice!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, golden candlestick! Rejoice, ark which held God! Rejoice, tabernacle! Rejoice, holy mountain! Rejoice, animate city of the living God! Rejoice, palace of Christ! Rejoice, divine and most splendid temple!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O most immaculate and pure one, excellent flower of nature! Rejoice, civic benevolence of the human race! Rejoice, God-given grace, who hath brought honor upon disgraced human nature by thy birthgiving!
Canon I of the Saint, Irmos: The uttermost depths of sin have encompassed me; * and its stormy waves I can endure no more, * wherefore like Jonah I cry out to Thee, O Master: * Lead me up from corruption.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
O all-blessed Chrysostom, thy tongue hath poured forth upon the Church streams of gold and enricheth starving hearts, which glorify thee in sacred manner.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
O all-blessed one, precious hath thy death been in the sight of our God, wherein thy city is glorified by the second return to thy throne, O father Chrysostom.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Blessed is the tomb which holdeth thy precious body, in that it enricheth with miracles those who have recourse thereto with faith, O Chrysostom, all-blessed hierarch.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Having given birth unto the Most High, O most holy Bride of God, thou dost exalt unto the heavens our nature which lieth below. Wherefore, we glorify thee as is meet.
Canon II of the Saint, Irmos: The uttermost depths of sin have surrounded me, * and my spirit perisheth. * but do Thou, O Master, stretch forth Thy lofty arm * and like Peter save me, * O my Helmsman.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The foolish empress cut thee off from the Church of Christ, denouncing thee in a rage; but straightway she found herself cut off, and even after death was reproved by thee, through a miraculous excommunication.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou wast shown to be an instrument of the Spirit accomplishing all things, melodiously sounding forth; but the tyrant empress became deaf, and like an adder passed it by, receiving a most dreadful death as recompense.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Though he died a mortal death, Chrysostom clearly taught the rulers to not torment him; for, at first refusing to submit to their commands, he later returned at their request.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Contemplating Thee, Who alone art born of a Virgin, even as Thou didst receive flesh and become dual in nature, John Chrysostom utterly rejected both division and commingling, O Jesus, Who art God and man.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Kontakion of the saint, in Tone I: The honored Church was mystically gladdened by the return of thy precious relics; * having hidden them like most precious gold, * and now by thy supplication she bountifully imparteth the grace of healings ** unto those who hymn thee, O John Chrysostom.
Ikos: The lamp of my deeds hath been diminished, O John Chrysostom, and I fear to encounter thy sacred relics; but do thou thyself guide me, and direct my steps, granting me time for repentance, O all-holy one, in so far as thou art a divine preacher of repentance. Do thou still the tempest of my many passions and, rescuing me from the snares of Belial, save me in the end, that I may worthily hymn thy glorious return, as before I also boldly glorified thy repose, O John Chrysostom.
Ode VII, Canon of the Theotokos, 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.
Rejoice, O Sovereign Lady, Virgin and Mother who hast given birth to the Son, who hast not known wedlock, who alone knewest not a man and alone art incorrupt!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O Bride of God, thou animate Zion of Christ, the King of kings, of which most glorious things have been spoken! Rejoice, ladder whereby we ascend to heaven from earth, and from corruption to life.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
A divinely planted meadow, a fragrant garden cultivated by God, hast thou been shown to be, O Virgin, who hast blossomed forth the Flower of immortality. Wherefore, together we cry out to thee: Rejoice! rejoice, bestower of joy! Rejoice, wellspring of sweetness!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
O most honored Lady, deliver me from the disgrace of the passions, that I may cry out joyfully to thee: Rejoice, wellspring of holiness! Rejoice, treasury of all purity! Rejoice, divine receptacle! Rejoice, habitation of Christ!
Canon I of the Saint, Irmos: In Babylon the Children feared not the fiery furnace; * but cast into the midst of the flames * they were bedewed and sang: * ‘O God of our fathers, Blessed art Thou.’
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Radiant with miracles, adorned with golden theology, thou wast given over to cruel banishment; but returning therefrom, thou hast been glorified by all.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
With the scythe of thy divine teachings thou cuttest wickedness off at the root planting divine knowledge in men’s souls, O holy hierarch Chrysostom. Wherefore, we glorify the return of thy relics.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Returning, O venerable Chrysostom, thou hast brought peace to the alienated and hast been placed in the church of the most wise apostles, with whose honored authority thou wast enriched, O all-praised one.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
O all-pure one, thou hast given birth to Jesus Christ, One of the transcendent Trinity. Him do Thou entreat, O all-immaculate Lady, that in His ineffable tender compassion He may forgive my manifold transgressions.
Canon II of the Saint, Irmos: As of old Thou didst bedew * the three pious children in the Chaldean flames, * so also with the radiant fire of Thy divinity * illumine us who cry to Thee, * ‘Blessed art Thou, the God of our fathers!’
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The most audacious woman had thee depart the Imperial City, O most wise one, for denouncing her eviction of the widow; and by her rejection of thy most wise teaching, she hath been left bereft of the grace of God .
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Yet thou didst return sweetly, like the sun which had been covered by clouds, O luminary of exceeding magnificence, unto all who have been enlightened by the mystic splendor of thy luminous golden teachings, O John Chrysostom.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
I stretch forth my hands unto thee, O Chrysostom, to embrace thee, the escort of the Bride who returnest in splendor, loved exceedingly, in that thou didst tarry for many years.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
Thou comest to the temple like mystical tongs, bearing the mystical Ember, O most pure one, by Whom Simeon, receiving Him in his arms, was enlightened to prophesy with exceeding clarity concerning the signs of His passion.
Ode VIII, Canon of the Theotokos, Irmos: O ye Children, equal in number to the Trinity, * bless ye God the Father and creator; * sing ye the praises of the Word who descended and changed the fire into dew; * and exalt ye above all for ever * the most Holy Spirit, who giveth life unto all.
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O branch which grew out of the root of Jesse! Rejoice, thou who, without being watered, blossomed forth Christ, the beautiful Flower! Rejoice, fertile mountain! Rejoice, mountain overshadowed! Rejoice, mountain of God in Whom the Word Who existeth before all time was pleased to dwell!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
With the iron staff of thy mighty aid do thou fend off the passions which beset me like dogs lying in wait, like roaring wild beasts, surrounding my lowly soul, O Virgin, that I may cry to thee: Rejoice!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou hast been adorned, O thou who art beautiful among women, who hast given birth unto Christ, Who is more comely in beauty than all the sons of mankind. Wherefore, rejoicing, we cry out to thee: Rejoice! rejoice, O pure and joyous Theotokos! Rejoice, thou who art more glorious than all creation!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
O Birthgiver of God, whom Daniel beheld beforehand as a mountain unquarried: Rejoice, thou from whom the Cornerstone was cut! Rejoice, Ember-bearing tongs pleasing unto God! Rejoice, thou who art more holy than the immaterial angels! Rejoice, thou who art more honorable than creation!
Canon I of the Saint, Irmos: Suffering affliction for the sake of the laws of their fathers, * the blessed Children in Babylon * scorned the foolish decree of the King. * Standing together in the midst of the flames, they remained unharmed, * and sang a song fitting for almighty God: * ‘O ye works of the Lord, praise ye the Lord * and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages.’
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Possessing the authority to loose and to bind, O venerable one, thou hast loosed all the transgressions of those who celebrate thy divine return with splendor. Entreat thou, that they also be deemed worthy of the kingdom of heaven, chanting with a contrite heart: Hymn the Lord, ye works, and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
In exile, O divinely wise father, thou didst endure pangs, receiving a blessed and glorious end, O Chrysostom, and by the will of God, returning again to thy divine see, thou art honored by those who chant: Hymn the Lord, ye works, and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The false serpent, unable to bear the darts of thy words, O venerable one, asked to test thee, as he did to the valiant Job; but vanquished by thine endurance for Christ’s sake, he hath been shown to be a source of ridicule for thee, who chantest with faith: Hymn the Lord, ye works, and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!
Most Holy Trinity our God, glory to Thee.
O beginningless Father, co-beginningless Son and divine Spirit, indivisible Trinity, one Essence, one Power, one Authority: fill with all good things, those who hymn Thee, delivering them from torment, that they may unceasingly chant: Hymn the Lord, ye works, and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The human mind is incapable of understanding the mystery of thine ineffable birthgiving, which is beyond comprehension and all telling, O Maiden; for God appeared as a mortal through thee, saving those who had fallen into corruption, and raising them up to their pristine dignity they chant: Hymn the Lord, ye works, and exalt Him supremely throughout all ages!
Canon II of the Saint, Irmos: United together in the unbearable fire, * yet not harmed by the flame, * the children, champions of godliness, sang a divine hymn: * O all ye works of the Lord, * bless ye the Lord and supremely exalt Him throughout all ages.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
With the milk of thy piety thou dost nurture the Church which nurtured thee, O venerable father, giving her seven loaves of the bread of divine grace and pouring forth thy sweetness as a drink of healing, O all-blessed Chrysostom, thou dost nourish us.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The proclamation of thy dogmas went forth into all the earth, O father, yet the mindless empress commanded that thou be driven from thy place; but she was deceived: for as from one of immense height, the rays of thy words have shone forth everywhere.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Let the assembly of the faithful be enlightened today, greeting the most excellent of teachers with gladness; for he hath come and is present in body, distributing abundant grace unto all, which we, rejoicing, do richly enjoy.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
“I behold Thee in Thy mother’s arms, and I know Thee to be unapproachable Divinity by nature. How, therefore, O Word, art Thou Who holds all creation in the palm of Thy hand, held in arms?” thus said Simeon, glorifying Thine ineffable power, O Thou Who art God and man.
Ode IX, Canon to the Theotokos, Irmos: All are 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.
Behold, all generations by the divine Spirit, call thee ever-blessed, as thou didst foretell, O Birthgiver of God; and they cry out to thee, as to the one who gaveth birth unto Joy: Rejoice! rejoice, O treasury of life! Rejoice, O wellspring which pourest forth spiritual honey!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
O pure Sovereign Lady, thou didst correct the stumbling of our forefather Adam, and didst turn the grief of Eve, our foremother, into joy. Wherefore, we cry to thee, as to the cause of joy: Rejoice! rejoice, O joy of the faithful! Rejoice, gladness of Christians!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
Meet it is to cry to thee: Rejoice! for in thee did the ever-existent Joy make His abode in essence, O Virgin Maiden Birthgiver of God. Rejoice, O paradise of sweetness! Rejoice, wellspring of immortality flowing with streams of gold! Rejoice, thou who pourest forth true drink!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
The desire for thee doth pierce my heart with the arrow of sweetness, O all-praised one, compelling me to ever call out to thee: Rejoice! and again to cry: Rejoice, peaceful haven! Rejoice, O sweetest impassable sea, who didst drown the noetic Pharaoh!
Canon I of the Saint, Irmos: Every tongue is at a loss to praise thee as is due: * even a spirit from the world above is filled with dizziness, * when it seeketh to sing thy praises, O Theotokos. * But since thou art good, accept our faith: * Thou knowest well our love inspired by God, * for thou art the Protector of Christians and we magnify thee.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou wast a rule of the priesthood, O divinely eloquent one, arrayed with righteousness as with divine vesture, having enriched the Church and spiritually laid bare the meaning of the Scriptures with thy words. Wherefore, we celebrate thy return, O father.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Thou wast shown to be as beautiful as a nightingale, O father, announcing the divine spring of repentance to those who are enslaved to the winter of sin. Though thou wast banished through the treachery of the deceiver, O wise one, thou dost hasten again, rejoicing, to the flock which desireth thee, O blessed Chrysostom.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The hearts of all are jubilant today, beholding thee, the pure Bridegroom, O venerable one, given by grace to the Church, thy Bride; and with unceasing voices they hymn and praise and bless the Bestower of good things, as is meet.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The lamp which was set upon the lampstand of Comana hath come! The adornment of the Church of God hath arrived! Hymn ye the Lord! Sing with gladness! And greeting him spiritually, let us all cry aloud: By thy supplications, save us, O father!
Most Holy Theotokos, save us.
With the most radiant brilliance of Him Who was ineffably born of thee, O Maiden, illumine my soul which hath been darkened by all manner of transgressions, desiring not to do that which is good, O holy and all-pure Theotokos; that I may unceasingly declare thy mighty works.
Canon II of the Saint, Irmos: New is the wonder and befitting of God: * for the Lord clearly passes through the closed gate of the Virgin: * naked at His going in and God bearing flesh at His coming out, * while the gate remaineth closed. * As ineffably the Theotokos and Mother of our God we magnify her.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
The army of angels, the council of the prophets and the divine choir of apostles and martyrs radiantly rejoice with us, sharing in the feast, O all-blessed one, esteeming the grace of thy hymns; for within thee is depicted the life of all.
Holy Father, John Chrysostom, pray to God for us.
Lo! the light of the world hath shone forth, the divine and most exalted lamp hath appeared therein, the sweetening abyss of the gifts of God. Come, brethren, let us partake of the light, that we may warm ourselves, and that we all may draw forth therefrom, magnifying Chrysostom with hymns from our heart.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Like a hymn offered to thee by a pair of mites, from mine unworthy and wretched soul, bereft of all that is good, and which I proffer out of zeal for the riches of God; Emulating the divine goodness, do thou accept it and render in return divinely – bestowed grace.
Now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
“Approaching, I tremble,” said Simeon, “yet am I strengthened, holding in mine arms thine Offspring, O Virgin, Who causeth all the earth to tremble at His mere gaze from on high; and I am already removed from the quaking flesh. Rejoicing, I bear the declaration of those things which are to be, fulfilled already in me, and I shall announce the glad tidings of deliverance to those who are in Hades”.