In this week following the feast of the Protecting Veil of the Most Holy Mother of God, we are continuing to celebrate the Intercession of the Queen of Heaven in our communities, and I would encourage all of our parishioners to continue to turn to the Theotokos for her protection and help for a parish in a time of trial and difficulty.

With this in mind we are posting the canon and akathist combined for use in home prayers, starting with the text in English, as we already have this published and on file.

Ode I, Irmos: I will open my mouth, and with the Spirit will it be filled; and I shall utter discourse unto the Queen and Mother, and shall be seen keeping splendid festival; and, rejoicing, I shall hymn her wonders.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

Having entered the church in great glory today as the Mother of God, with the ranks of the holy angels and the assemblies of the prophets and apostles, thou prayest for all Christians and deliverest them from perils and grief, covering them with thy mercy.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

Moses called thee the tabernacle and the rod of Aaron, for thou didst put forth Christ, the Tree of life; and as thou hast boldness before Him, O Queen, pray thou for us who honour thee, that He deliver us from all evil, that we may glorify the feast of thy protection.

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

Assembling choirs, David doth dance, not as he did before the ark of old, but even more now, hastening into thy presence in the church with the ranks of the saints. And bowing down before thee, we say: Pray thou for us, the people who honour thee, that, glorifying thy protection, we may celebrate it with honour.

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

The ranks of the angels hymn thee, O Theotokos, and the patriarchs and holy hierarchs glorify thee, hastening into thy presence in the church. And the holy Andrew then beheld thee with them, praying to God for us sinners, that He have mercy upon the people who glorify the feast of thy protection.

Ode III, Irmos: O Theotokos, thou living and abundant fountain, in thy divine glory spiritually establish those who hymn thee, forming themselves into a choir, and vouchsafe unto them crowns of glory.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

Like an unploughed field thou didst manifestly produce the divine Grain. Rejoice, O animate table holding the Bread of life! Rejoice, O Mistress, thou inexhaustible wellspring of the Water of life!

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

O Mistress, we, thy people, standing before thee with faith in thy church, await thy mercy. Visit our lowliness, and with thy holy protection defend the Orthodox people from all evil.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

O far-famed Virgin who was honourably prefigured by the prophets, with the angels they now do thee homage. Pray thou to God with them, that, rejoicing, we may all splendidly celebrate thy holy protection today.

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

Gideon prefigured thee as a fleece, for Christ God descended upon thee like dew. Pray thou to Him, O Theotokos, that He grant victory to our Orthodox hierarchs over all heresies, that, casting them down like the Midianites, they may glorify thy holy feast.

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

O Theotokos, with thy radiant omophorion thou lightest the church and the people more than the rays of the sun, and by thy visitation drivest away the darkness of our sins, praying for us to thy Son and God.

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

Kontakion, Tone 3: Today the Virgin standeth forth in the church, and with the choirs of the saints she invisibly prayeth to God for us. Angels and hierarchs offer homage, and the apostles and prophets join chorus; for, for our sake the Theotokos entreateth the pre-eternal God.

Ikos: Come, O ye people, let us delight in her all-glorious miracles; for through her hath Adam been delivered from corruption. She is the ark fashioned, not by Noah, but by God. Of old, Moses was unable to see God in the fiery bush; but now the whole earth doth acknowledge the Son of God Who was born of her and to Whom she prayeth for us. Wherefore, we glorify her as the Mother of God; for, for our sake the Theotokos entreateth the pre-eternal God.

Sedalion, Tone 5: O pure Ever-virgin, fervent and invincible intercessor, excellent and unashamed hope, bulwark, protection and refuge of those who have recourse to thee: with the angels beseech thy Son and God, that He grant compunction, salvation and great mercy to the world.

Glory …, Now & ever …, The foregoing sedalion is repeated.

Ode IV, Irmos: Seated in glory upon the throne of the Godhead, Jesus most divine is come upon a light cloud, and with His incorrupt arm hath saved those who cry: Glory to Thy power, O Christ!

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

O most hymned Virgin, we cry out to thee in voices of hymnody: Rejoice, thou butter mountain, curdled by the Spirit! Rejoice, O lampstand, O jar bearing the Manna which sweeteneth the senses of all the pious!

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

O Theotokos, God hath sanctified thee wholly, more than the ark of Aaron, and hath commanded the saints and angels to do thee homage. With them pray for the city and people who glorify thine honoured feast.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

O Theotokos, come now in glory unto thy church, with the councils of all the saints, as once the holy Andrew beheld thee in the air, radiantly praying for Christians; and grant us thy mercy.

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

Strengthen our Orthodox hierarchs against all heresy and schism, as God did David against Goliath, O Mistress, that in gladness we may cry to thee: Rejoice, O holy protection and helper of our city!

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

With faith do we fall down before thee, O Lady, and, rendering homage with thanksgiving, we cry out to thee: Rejoice, O Virgin full of the grace of God, our protection and wall of defence, the helper of those in misfortune! Save us who have recourse to thee, for in thee do we place our trust!

Ode V, Irmos: All things are filled with awe by thy divine glory; for thou, O Virgin who knewest not wedlock, didst hold in thy womb Him Who is God over all, and thou gavest birth to the timeless Son, granting peace to all who hymn thee.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

Of old, Solomon described thee as the marriage-couch and bed of the King of heaven, and spake of thee as surrounded by the seraphim, O Theotokos. Wherefore, we now beseech thee, O most holy Mother of God: Protect us from all misfortunes!

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

To thee do the foremost among the angels and the honoured prophets and apostles render service with honour as the Mother of God, beholding thee making supplication for the world; and the Lord, hearkening to thine entreaties, doth save thy city and people who place their trust in thee.

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

Isaiah, great among the prophets, prophesied thee, saying that without knowing wedlock thou wouldst give birth to God; for thou, O pure Mary, wast more holy than all, in that thou didst bear God in thy womb and in thine arms. To Him pray thou for us, with thy protection covering those who faithfully glorify thee.

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

Spreading spiritual wings, the councils of the saints came mystically to do thee homage, O Theotokos, beholding thee on the light cloud of glory, praying to Christ the Saviour, that He grant victory to our Orthodox hierarchs, to prevail over all heresy and schism.

Ode VI, Irmos: Celebrating this divine and most honoured festival of the Mother of God, come, ye divinely wise, let us clap our hands and glorify God Who was born of her!

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

Divinely wise priests, standing in thy church with the pious people, await thy mercy, O Theotokos. Transform our grief into joy, in that thou gavest birth to the Joy Who hath done away with the sins of all men.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

To thee doth all the earth offer gifts as to the Queen and Mother of God. Kings and princes bow down in homage, and all the people are glad, protected from all evil by thy supplications, O Theotokos.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spir

Daniel described thee beforehand as a great mountain; for from thee was Christ born without seed. He hath destroyed all the falsehood of the demons, and hath filled all the earth with His Faith. To Him do thou pray for us who glorify the feast of thy protection, O Theotokos.

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

O all-pure one, we utter unto thee the cry of the angel: Rejoice, O throne of God, whereon Ezekiel beheld the Lord in the guise of a man, borne up by the cherubim! With them pray thou for us, O Theotokos, that He save our souls.

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

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

Kontakion 1: O Chosen by the Pre-Eternal God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, higher than all creation, who hast in days past entered praying into the Church of the Blachernae we, offering Thee with thanksgiving due veneration, flee with faith and compunction under Thy shining vestment for we lie in darkness. And as Thou who hast invincible power dost set us free from every affliction that we may cry to Thee: Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious veil.

Ikos 1: Archangels and angels with John the Forerunner, John the Divine and the choir of all the saints, were present with Thee, their Queen, in the Church of the Blachernae and hearing Thy moving supplication for all the world, they cried out with wonder as follows:

Rejoice, O pre-eternal good will of God the Father Who has no beginning of days.

Rejoice, timeless and most pure one who contained God the Son.

Rejoice, Thou chosen dwelling-place of God the all-Holy Spirit.

Rejoice, Thou never ceasing wonder of the angelic hosts on high.

Rejoice, Thou all-threatening terror of the dark forces of hell.

Rejoice, Thou whom the many-eyed cherubim meet in the air.

Rejoice, Thou to whom the six-winged seraphim ascribe praises.

Rejoice, Thou whose most precious veil we born on earth thankfully venerate.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 2: Saint Andrew with Epiphanios having seen Thee inside the Church praying to God in the air all Christians, acknowledged Thee to be the Mother of Christ our God Who ascended into heaven and falling to the ground they joyfully venerated Thine all-precious veil, crying: Alleluia!

Ikos 2: Thou O Theotokos Virgin art knowledge unknowable in defence of Orthodox people. Therefore our enemies know not how strong is the prayer of the Mother of God: while we well aware of Thine all-mighty protection cry to Thee with tender feeling:

Rejoice, Most merciful Comforter of all the afflicted and heavy laden.

Rejoice, never sleeping Guide of all those who have strayed and gone blind.

Rejoice, Thou who by Thy supplication dost swiftly appease the wrath of God rightly poured out on us.

Rejoice, Thou who by an all-powerful behest dost tame out evil passions.

Rejoice, strong waker of sleeping consciences.

Rejoice, easy overcomer of sinful practices.

Rejoice, Thou for whose sake hell groans and the spirits of evil tremble.

Rejoice, Thou for whose sake the gates of paradise are opened to all.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 3: Power from on high overshadows those who run for refuge with faith and reverence to Thy precious protection: for to Thee alone, O all holy and all pure only Mother of God is it given that every petition of Thine be fulfilled. Therefore the faithful of all ages glorify Thee and Thy Son, crying: Alleluia!

Ikos 3: O Lady, having a never-failing wealth of mercy, Thou dost stretch the hand of help to all the ends of the earth: and dost  give healing to the sick, relief to the suffering, sight to the blind, and to all everything that is expedient for them as they cry aloud in thanksgiving:

Rejoice, indestructible fortress and bulwark of Orthodox rulers.

Rejoice, principle adornment of holy churches and altars.

Rejoice, truest guard of holy monasteries.

Rejoice, vigilant Helper of stouthearted civil authorities.

Rejoice, unconquerable Leader of Christian captains and armies.

Rejoice, holy mirror of justice for judges who take no bribes.

Rejoice, perfect knowledge for teachers and those who bring up children.

Rejoice, Blessing of pious homes and families.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 4: O Lady, Thou dost help us held fast by a storm of many afflictions: for Thou dost stand before the altar of the Lord, lifting Thine hands and praying that the Lord of glory look down on our unworthy prayer and hearken to the petitions of those who call upon Thy holy Name crying to Thy Son: Alleluia!

Ikos 4: The Lord God heard Joshua, son of Nun, praying and He commanded the sun to stand still until he defeated the enemy. The Lord Jesus now hears Thy supplication, O chosen dwelling of the Holy Spirit. Therefore we sinners, putting our trust in Thy protection, make bold to say to Thee, Mother of God:

Rejoice, Thou who are lit by the Sun of the mind and who dost enlighten us with the light that never sets.

Rejoice, Thou who hast illumined the whole earth by the brightness of Thy most pure soul.

Rejoice, Thou who hast made glad the whole heavens by the purity of Thy body.

Rejoice, Protector and Provider of the holy monasteries of Christ.

Rejoice, Thou who art the strength and understanding of the pastors of the Church.

Rejoice, Guide of God-fearing monks and nuns.

Rejoice, untroubled rest of the pious aged.

Rejoice, secret gladness of pure virgins and widows.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 5: When Moses who saw God lifted his arms while the battle with Amalek raged, Israel overcame and when he let his hands fall, Amalek was victorious and strengthened by those who hold up his arms, Israel defeated the enemy; and Thou, O Mother of God, having raised Thine hands in supplication, even though no man hold them up, dost always conquer the enemies of Christ and art an invincible shield for us who cry: Alleluia!

Ikos 5: The assemblies of saints when they had seen Thee in the air inside the church of the Blachernae stretching Thy hands in prayer to Thy Son and God, sang Thee a song in Thanksgiving with the archangels and angels: while we, our hands fortified by Thee made stronger than the arms of Moses, cry aloud with compunction:

Rejoice, Thou whose love and mercy towards us alone hold out Thine hands for us.

Rejoice, Thou before Whom our enemies, visible and invisible, cannot stand.

Rejoice, Thou who drivest away the dark hordes of our passions and lusts.

Rejoice, Thou who holdest in Thine hand without being consumed, the divine fire of Christ, and who with it dost set us in our coldness aflame.

Rejoice, Thou who crownest with a fair crown of chastity those who fight against the flesh.

Rejoice, Thou perpetual Converser with those who strive in fasting and silent prayer.

Rejoice, Thou speedy Comforter of those who fall from despair and sadness.

Rejoice, Thou who dost by grace provide us with humility and patience.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 6: Saint Roman the Melodist, appeared as an unfailing proclaimer of Thy grace and mercy when he had received from Thee in a dream a paper roll to swallow: for thereby made wise, he began to sing with skill in Thine honor and to write praises for the saints, calling out with faith: Alleluia!

Ikos 6: O Virgin, Maid of God, who hast shone forth the Dawn from the true Sun of righteousness, enlightening all with the wisdom of Thy God and Son and who leadest all to knowledge of the truth those who cry to Thee:

Rejoice, Thou who hast given birth to Christ in the flesh, the power of God and wisdom of God.

Rejoice, Thou who hast confounded the foolish wisdom of this world and who hast guided those blinded by it on the way of truth.

Rejoice, Preserver of our holy faith and teacher of Orthodox dogma.

Rejoice, Uprooter of impious heresies and corrupting divisions.

Rejoice, Thou who well knowest secret and unforeseen difficulties and dost tell those whom it is proper about them.

Rejoice, thou who puttest to shame false seers and vain divining.

Rejoice, Thou who in the hour of perplexity dost put a good thought in our hearts.

Rejoice, Thou who dost turn us from perilous purposes and senseless desires.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 7: The all-seeing, long suffering Lord, wishing to manifest the unsearchable deep of His mercies and love for mankind, chose Thee alone to be His Mother, and made Thee into an invincible defence for His people: that even though one of them appear worthy of condemnation by the righteous judgment of God, yet all the more shall he be preserved for repentance by Thy mighty protection, crying: Alleluia!

Ikos 7: O Lord, Thou hast shown in Thine all-pure Mother, how wonderful are Thy works when Her most marvellous veil was revealed in Her hand shining brighter than the rays of the sun and with it She protected the people in the Church of Blachernae: for hearing of such a sign of Her defence, held by fear and joy, all say:

Rejoice, thou veil not made by hand of man that is spread over the whole world like a cloud.

Rejoice, Thou who dost hold in Thine hands the banner of Thy Son, the Pre-Eternal High-Priest.

Rejoice, Thou who hast thereby made manifest a new mercy and new grace in the Orthodox Church.

Rejoice, pillar of cloud who protectest all of us in the world from temptations and scandals.

Rejoice, pillar of fire amidst the darkness, showing us all the path of salvation.

Rejoice, visible strength of manifest strivers for godliness.

Rejoice, secret Giver of understanding to the secret servants of God in this world.

Rejoice, Thou who also leavest not without Thy grace and protection me who am stripped of all good works.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 8: Angels sang Thy praises when Thou didst appear in wondrous wise from heaven in the Church of the Blachernae and apostles gave Thee glory. The choir of holy bishops and monks and the band of holy women extolled Thee, the Forerunner with John the Theologian venerated Thee, and the people present in the Church cried aloud with joy: Alleluia!

Ikos 8: The Lord Who reignest over all things above and below, when He had seen Thee, His Mother, standing in the Church and praying with tender feeling to Him, said: Ask, O my Mother, because I shall never turn from Thee but will fulfil all Thy petitions and teach all to sing to Thee in thanksgiving:

Rejoice, Ark of the law in which is kept the sanctification of all mankind.

Rejoice, all-holy Jar in which the bread of eternal life is preserved for those who hunger for righteousness.

Rejoice, all-golden Vessel in which the flesh and blood of the divine Lamb are prepared for us.

Rejoice, Thou who dost receive in Thine all-powerful arms those foresaken by the physicians.

Rejoice, Thou who dost raise from their bed of sickness those crippled in body, but not in spirit and faith.

Rejoice, Thou who givest a new and better understanding to those who are perishing from infirmity of mind.

Rejoice, Thou who dost wisely trip us up on the stubborn path of sin and passion.

Rejoice, Thou who dost turn to mercy the cruelty of our unrepentant hearts.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 9: The whole assembly of angels offers Thee praises, Thou true Mother of God and Defender of all who run to Thee, knowing how with Thine unfailing protection Thou dost rejoice the righteous, protect and deliver the poor, and pray for all the faithful crying: Alleluia!

Ikos 9: The wordy orators, become as dumb fish, are at a loss as to how to praise as is due, the great feast of Thine all-precious protection: for all the things said by them about Thee suffice not to number Thy mercies alone. And we, seeing Thy good works without number, cry with gladness:

Rejoice, Thou who dost guard us from the deadly plague in which all perish.

Rejoice, Thou who dost preserve cities and villages from sudden earthquakes.

Rejoice, Thou who dost lead us out with Thy strong arm from flood and drowning.

Rejoice, Thou who by the dew of Thy prayers dost deliver us from the kindling of fire.

Rejoice, Thou who dost provide against hunger of soul and body by the Bread of Life.

Rejoice, Thou who dost lead away from our heads the blows of lightening and thunder.

Rejoice, Thou who dost save us from the attacks of strangers and secret murderers.

Rejoice, Thou who dost guard us with peace and love against family quarrels and enmities of those of our own blood.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 10: Wishing to save mankind from the error of the enemy, the Lord Who lovest mankind gave us on earth Thee His Mother to be our help, protection and defence, for Thee to be the Comforter of those that sorrow, the Joy of the afflicted, the Defender of the injured, and to raise all from the depth of sin, singing: Alleluia!

Ikos 10: “O King of Heaven”, spoke the all-pure Queen in prayer as She stood with the angels, “do Thou accept every man praying to Thee and calling upon my name for help, that he go not away from my face empty and unheard.” Hearing this most good supplication, the assemblies of the saints cried in thanksgiving:

Rejoice, Thou who crownest with blessed fruits the husbandman pure in hand and heart.

Rejoice, Succour and righteous Rewarder for all those who honestly trade.

Rejoice, Reprover before all nations of those who keep not their oaths and whose gains are unjust.

Rejoice, unexpected Helper of those in distress in travels by land and water.

Rejoice, Thou who makest childless couples glad with the fruits of faith and spirit.

Rejoice, unseen Tutor of motherless orphans.

Rejoice, strong Defender of those in captivity and exile.

Rejoice, ever-watchful Guardian of those sitting in bonds and prison.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 11: Hearing a most moving song and attending to Thy prayer for us, we beg Thee, O Virgin Theotokos, look not away from the voices of Thy servants for we run to Thee in assaults and affliction and in our distress we pour out our tears before Thee, crying: Alleluia!

Ikos 11: Seeing Thee in the air inside the Blachernae Church burning in prayer as a candle aflame with light, I gave voice together with a multitude of people there present: “how can this be that the Mother of my Lord has come to me?” And Saint Andrew with Epiphanios prayed warmly to Thee, crying:

Rejoice, abundant Giver of all spiritual and bodily gifts.

Rejoice, true Advocate of sinners who have started to repent.

Rejoice, perpetual Champion of those fighting with enemy passions and intents.

Rejoice, invisible Tamer of cruel and bestial masters.

Rejoice, secret Rest and Consolation of humble and suffering servants.

Rejoice, most longed-for Fulfiller of blessed marriages.

Rejoice, swift and painless relief of mothers in childbirth.

Rejoice, our only Help in the hour of death.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil

Kontakion 12: Ask Thy Son to give us divine grace; stretch towards us a helping hand; ward off from us every enemy and adversary and give our lives peace that we perish not grievously, without repentance, but accept us, O our Protector, in the eternal mansions, that, rejoicing we may cry to Thee: Alleluia!

Ikos 12: Singing the praises of Thy mighty protection, we praise Thee for Thou art to us all our firm Advocate and we venerate Thee who dost pray for us: for we believe and we trust that Thou wilt beg of Thy Son and God eternal and temporal good things for all who cry thus to Thee with love:

Rejoice, strong Defence of the whole inhabited earth.

Rejoice, sanctification of all the earthly and heavenly elements.

Rejoice, Thou Blessing of all the seasons of the year.

Rejoice, Thou Conqueror of all assaults and temptations that come from the world, the flesh and the devil.

Rejoice, unhoped for Reconciliation of those who are at daggers drawn.

Rejoice, Amendment without their knowledge of unrepentant sinners.

Rejoice, Thou who dost not turn away those despised and forsaken by all.

Rejoice, Thou who dost pluck from the pit of destruction those that indeed despair.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 13: O all-praised Mother, Most pure Lady, Virgin, Theotokos, to Thee do I lift up the eyes of my soul and body, to Thee do I stretch forth my hands grown feeble and I cry from the depth of my heart: look down on the faith and humility of my soul; shelter me with Thy almighty protection, that I be saved from all assault and distress, and in the hour of my death, be by me, O Thou all-blessed, and deliver me from the torment prepared for me because of my sins, that venerating Thee, I may ever cry: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! (Thrice)

Ikos 1: Archangels and angels with John the Forerunner, John the Theologian and the choir of all the saints, were present with Thee, their Queen, in the Church of the Blachernae and hearing Thy moving supplication for all the world, they cried out with wonder as follows:

Rejoice, O pre-eternal good will of God the Father Who has no beginning of days.

Rejoice, timeless and most pure one who contained God the Son.

Rejoice, Thou chosen dwelling-place of God the all-Holy Spirit.

Rejoice, Thou never ceasing wonder of the angelic hosts on high.

Rejoice, Thou all-threatening terror of the dark forces of hell.

Rejoice, Thou whom the many-eyed cherubim meet in the air.

Rejoice, Thou to whom the six-winged seraphim ascribe praises.

Rejoice, Thou whose most precious veil we born on earth thankfully venerate.

Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious Veil.

Kontakion 1: O Chosen by the Pre-Eternal God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, higher than all creation, who hast in days past entered praying into the Church of the Blachernae we, offering Thee with thanksgiving due veneration, flee with faith and compunction under Thy shining vestment for we lie in darkness. And as Thou who hast invincible power dost set us free from every affliction that we may cry to Thee: Rejoice, our Joy, protect us from every ill by Thy precious veil.

Ode VII, Irmos: The divinely wise would not worship a created thing instead of the Creator, but, manfully trampling the threat of the fire underfoot, they rejoiced, chanting: O all-hymned Lord God of our fathers, blessed art Thou!

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

O Virgin, thou wast not described by the many prophets and wast also unknown to the angels of heaven who minister to God; but now we all know thee to be the Theotokos, and require thy help and aid, O blessed one.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

O Virgin Theotokos, thou mountain curdled by the Spirit which Habbakuk saw pouring forth the sweetness of healing upon the faithful, heal us who cry out to thy Son: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

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

He Who bowed down the heavens made His abode within thee, O Virgin, and now regardeth thy supplication, fulfilling thy petitions, O pure Queen and Theotokos. To Him do thou now earnestly pray, for we place our hope in thee, O blessed one.

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

O Christ God, our Creator and Saviour, accept the entreaty of Thy Mother, which she offereth to Thee for us sinners, that, rejoicing, we may chant to Thee: O all-hymned God of our fathers, blessed art Thou!

Ode VIII, Irmos: The birth giving of the Theotokos saved the pious children in the furnace – then in figure, but now in deed, – and it moveth the whole world to chant to Thee: Hymn the Lord, O ye works, and exalt Him supremely for all ages!

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

With the ranks of the angels, the honourable and glorious prophets, the preeminent apostles, the hieromartyrs and holy hierarchs, O Mistress, pray thou to God for us sinners who glorify the feast of thy protection in this land.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

Cast down pride and arrogance, scatter the councils of unjust princes, and destroy those who instigate wars, O Mother of God, most honoured Queen! And exalt the horn of our Orthodox hierarchs, that we may glorify thy feast, O all-pure Virgin Theotokos, crying: Hymn the Lord, ye works, and exalt Him supremely for all ages!

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

Offering thee hymnody with our mouths, we bow down before thee spiritually with our souls; for our hearts burn within us. O all-pure Mother of God, have mercy upon us who pray to thee, who hymn the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages.

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

I have been weighed down by many sins, and am at a loss how to write in praise of thy protection, O Theotokos; but as thou art the Mother of God, adorn thy feast with miracles, that, rejoicing, we may all hymn the Lord and exalt Him supremely for all ages.

Ode IX, Irmos: Let every earthborn man leap up, enlightened by the Spirit; and let the nature of the incorporeal intelligences hold festival, honouring the sacred feast of the Mother of God, and let it cry aloud: Rejoice, O most blessed Theotokos, thou pure Ever-virgin!

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

O exalted King Who sittest with the Father and art hymned by the seraphim: look down upon the supplication of Thy Mother, which she offereth to Thee for us sinners, and wash away our sins. Save this city and multiply the people. Grant health of body and victory over all adversaries to the Orthodox through the prayers of her who gave Thee birth.

Most Holy Mother of God, save us.

O divinely chosen Virgin, we cry out to thee with the voice of the angel: Rejoice, thou who hast led Adam back into paradise! Rejoice, thou who drivest the demons away with thy name! Rejoice, O hope of Christians! Rejoice, sanctification of souls! Rejoice, preserver of our city!

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

Remember us in thy supplications, O Virgin Lady and Theotokos, that we not perish because of the multitude of our sins. Protect us from all evil and grievous perils, for in thee do we place our trust, and, honouring the feast of thy protection, we magnify thee.

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

As Mother of God, thou hast received from God the gift to heal the infirmities of all Christians, to deliver them from misfortunes, to forgive their sins and save them from captivity and all want. Disdain us not, O Lady, for thou knowest that we are in need of health for our bodies and salvation for our souls.

First Prayer: O all-holy Virgin, Mother of the Lord of the hosts on high, Thou Queen of heaven and earth and almighty Defender of our country, accept from us Thine unworthy servants this song of praise and thanksgiving and bring our prayer up to the throne of Thy God and Son, that He be merciful towards our unrighteousness, and extend His grace to those who honor Thy name and venerate with faith and love Thy wonder-working ikon. For we are not worthy to be forgiven by Him hadst Thou, O Lady, not made Him merciful towards us, for all things from Him are possible to Thee. Therefore we run to Thee as Thou art our swift and undoubted Protector. Hear us who pray to Thee: overshadow us with Thine almighty veil and ask from Thy God and Son zeal and vigilance for our shepherds, wisdom and strength for the souls of those who govern our cities, righteousness and impartiality for our judges, understanding and humility for our leaders, love and concord for the married, obedience for our children, patience for those who have been offended, the fear of God for those that offend, stoutheartedness for the afflicted, restraint for those that rejoice, and for all of us the spirit of understanding and godliness, the spirit of mercy and meekness, the spirit of chastity and truth. Yea, O all-holy Lady, be merciful towards Thy feeble people: gather together the dispersed, guide on the right way those that have gone astray, uphold old age, make the young pure, bring up the children and look down upon all of us with the care of Thy merciful protection. Raise us from the depth of sin and enlighten the eyes of our hearts to see salvation. Be merciful to us both here and yonder, during our wandering in the land of this earth and at the Last Judgement of Thy Son: and make our fathers and brothers who have departed this life live the eternal life with the angels and all the saints. For Thou, O Lady, art the glory of those in heaven and the trust of those on earth. After God, Thou art the hope and Defender of all who flee to Thee with faith. We then pray to Thee and to Thee as our almighty Helper, do we commend ourselves and one another, now and for ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Second Prayer: O my most blessed Queen, my all-holy hope, Receiver of orphans and Defender of the strangers, Helper of those in poverty, Protector of the sick, behold my distress, behold my affliction. On all sides am I held by temptation, and there is none to defend me. Help me then as I am weak, feed me as I am a pilgrim, guide me as I have strayed, heal and save me as I lie without hope. For I have no other help, nor advocate nor comforter, save Thee, O Mother of all the afflicted and heavy laden. Look down then on me, a sinner lying in sickness, and protect me with Thine all-holy Veil, that I be delivered from all the ills surrounding me and may ever praise Thy Name that all men sing. Amen.

Troparion, Tone 4: Overshadowed by thy coming, O Mother of God, * we, the right faithful people, celebrate today with splendour, * and gazing upon thy most precious image, we cry aloud with compunction: * Cover us with thy precious omophorion, * and deliver us from all evil, * entreating thy Son, Christ our God, ** that He save our souls.

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

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.

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

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.

A Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos

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.