April 1
Commemoration of our venerable Mother Mary of Egypt ( 5th
Class)
VESPERS
At "of Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 6) 3. Having first distanced yourself from the weight of the
passions by contemplating God, you then directed your desires
and deeds to that which is on high. Gazing at the icon of the
all-pure Virgin and resolutely renouncing all sin, you
confidently went to worship the precious Cross.
2. You joyfully visited the holy places, nourished by virtue on
the way of salvation, rapidly travelling along the road of
holiness. Crossing the streams of the Jordan and dwelling in
the wilderness like the Baptist, you tamed the rebelliousness
of the flesh, calming the wild nature of the passions, of
venerable Mother, by your holy way of life.
1. As you dwelt in the wilderness, you erased from your soul the
fantasies of the passions in order to i n~r i be thereon the
image of God by the light of the virtues. You shone with such
radiance that you lightly walked upon the waters and were
lifted up from the earth in your prayer to God. Standing now
with confidence before Christ, O blessed Mary, intercede with
Him for the salvation of our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) The heralds announce that the wedding feast . of
the heavenly Bridegroom is now prepared. Why do you hold back,
O sullied soul? Indeed, your garment is stained by your
wretched deeds. Alas! How can you enter in? Before it is too
late, bow down before the ever-Virgin, crying out with all
your heart: "Cleanse me, O holy Virgin! Wash me with the
hyssop of your intercession; make me worthy of the wedding
banquet of your Son, that I may ceaselessly magnify you."
tStavrotheotokion) "O my Son, the judges of Israel are
determined to condemn You to death, t king You appear as an
accused before the judgment seat, O Savior, who judge the
living and the dead. The impious submit You to the judgment
of Pilate; but at the sentencing, they stand condemned
already. Seeing You condemned, O Lord, I am torn and wounded,
for I would prefer death rather than a life of mourning."
Thus spoke the Mother of God, who is full of compassion.
(But if April 1 falls on a Saturday:)
v: Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit.
(Tone 2) With the sword of asceticism, you severed the
passions of the soul and flesh; you stifled evil thoughts
by the silence of your life of renunciation; the streams
of your tears watered the wilderness, bring~ forth fruits
of repentance. Thus, we celebrate your holy memory, O
v ~n e r ah 1 e Mother .
v: Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
When I ponder my sins, I mourn from the depths of my soul.
Striking my breast, I cry out: "I have sinned! O Lady, I
prostrate before you, seeking to repent. But foolishly, I
am continually caught again by the hooks of my evil
habits. Make haste to deliver me and show me the way to
salvation!"
Tropar i on
(Tone 8)
In you, O Mother Mary, was restored the likeness of God, for
you carried your cross and followed Christ. You taught by
your deeds how to spurn the body, for it passes away, and how
to value the soul, for it is immortal. Wherefore, your soul
i s f orever i n haDDiness with the anqels.
ORTHROS
Kontakion (Ron: please check to see if Raya has it already
translated)
(Tone 3)
She who once was devoted to vice and passion, has today by
penance become a bride of Christ, imitating the angels in her
way of life, destroying the demons by the weapon of the
Cross. Thus, o Mary, you appear as a radiant bride in the
kinadom of heaven.
Ikos
With hymnswe now celebrate you, O venerable Mary, lamb and
daughter of Christ! Once the offshoot of the Egyptians, you
have now become a precious flower for the Church, practicing
asceticism and prayer beyond the common measure of mankind.
By the merits of your life and deeds, you have been exalted
in Christ, O Mary, and appear as a radiant bride in the
kingdom of heaven.
Synaxar ion
On April 1, we commemorate our venerable mother Mary of
Egypt.
The soul leaves the flesh emaciated to the very bones O
earth, cover these bones, the remains of Mary. On the
first day of April, the glory of the wilderness is
nourished at the immortal banquet table prepared for her
by the Lord.
By her holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
April 2
Commemoration of our venerable Father Titus
the Wonderworker
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call.
(Tone 8)
3. Taking up your cross, O our father Titus, wise in God, you
followed Christ, submitting your passions to your soul.
You received from on high the power to heal the passions
of those who run to you, to bring an end to sickness, and
to drive away demons. Thus, we all come together to
celebrate your memory.
2. O our blessed father Titus, purified in holiness by the
asceticism of your life, your spirit enlightened by your
union with God, you were anointed as a priest by the
descent of the Spirit. In a wondrous manner, you seemed
an angel on earth as you served the divine Mysteries for
your Creator and your God.
1. O Titus, venerable and inspired, with your spirit
enlightened by the splendor of the true faith, you
scattered the shadows of dark heresy. Rising like a
radiant star, you illumined the very ends of the earth by
your light-bearing miracles. Thus, in faith, we glorify
you and call you blessed.
v: Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) With what eyes could I behold your gracious
face, I who have sullied my fleshly sight by my passions?
How could my profane and sinful lips, O pure Virgin, kiss
your Godbearing icon? How could I stretch ot the hands
which I have used to my dishonor, to plead for your divine
qrace? O LadY, obtain salvation for me!
(or Stavrotheotokion) The sun was struck with fear at
seeing You stretched out on the Cross, o Jesus! The earth
quaked, the rocks were split, the tombs were opened in
fright, the powers of heaven were filled with terror. And
the Virgin, seeing You on the Cross, O Lord, cried out:
"Alas! What vision do I behold?"
(If a Troparion is needed, it comes from the common)
(Ron, please check Raya to see if a Troparion is given..put
it in here)
tlRTHRnS
Kon t ak i on (Tone 4)
You were freed from all turbulence here below, O wise father;
having passed your whole life in peace, you departed to
Christ our God as a wonderworker, O venerable Titus.
(Ron, please check to see if Raya gives another translation
of this)
Synaxar i on
On April 2, we commemorate our venerable Father Titus, the
Wonderworker.
Titus, how can you leave your life as an archimandrite?
Indeed, it is to God's glory that I leave! On the second,
the angels carried off the soul of Titus.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
April 3
Commemoration of our venerable Father
Niceatas the Confessor, Hegumen of the
Monastery of Medikia (Ron: check spelling in Raya)
(5th Class)
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 2)
VMPF!D R
3. Under the guidance of the Word, you became a faithful
guide, o holy steward. Sowing the good seed of salvation,
gathering in a harvest a hundredfold, you brought it to
the Lord in joy. O blessed father, as you stand forever
in His presence, be mindful of your flock which
ceaselessly venerates your holy memory.
2. Gentle and kind by nature, you became a warrior fired by
zeal for orthodoxy. Clad in the armor of faith, bearing
the lance of asceticism, O Nicetas, you denounced the
blasphemy of heresy. God-bearing father, you venerated
the icon of the Savior as you followed the rule given by
the Fathers.
1. With the cruelty of a beast, the darkest of tyrants
imprisoned you in the most obscure of places in the
bitterness of exile. But Paradise dwelt within your
heart, o blessed father, and you suffered joyfully. You
have received the recompense for your labors, and now you
look upon the splendor of God.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
SPirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) When I ponder my sins, I mourn from the
depths of my soul. Striking my breast, I cry out: "I have
sinned! o Lady, I prostrate before you, seeking to repent.
But foolishly, I am continually caught again by the hooks
of my evil habits. Make haste to deliver me and show me
the way to salvation!"
(Or Stavrotheotokion) The sun was covered with shadows, O
Savior, as it beheld You hanging on the Cross; the
underworld quaked in fear, the dead arose from their
tombs, the rocks were split, the heavens stood in
amazement. Standing beneath Your Cross, O Christ, the
pure Virgin wept as she celebrated Your love for mankind.
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
(Ron: please check to see if Raya gives Troparion. . insert
here)
ORTHROS
Kontakion (Tone 2)
Having conformed your life and spirit to heaven, you shine
like the sun in the radiance of your deeds, enlightening
those who lie in darkness here below, and leading them to
Christ our God; in Hls presence, ceaselessly intercede for us
all.
(Ron: please check to see if Raya gives another translation)
Synaxar i on
On April 3, we commemorate our venerable Father Nicetas the
Confessor, Hegumen of the Monastery of (Medikia...sp?)
Like a partridge fleeing from a snare, Nicetas quickly
takes wing from earth to heaven. On the third, God
rawnrt1c Flic faithftll servant
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen
April 4
Commemoration of our venerable Father George
of Mount Maleum (sPelling in Raya?)
(5th Class)
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 2)
VESPERS
3. Completely and fervently devoted, o holy father, youunited
your whole soul to the God who sees all things; and you
harvested the divine fruits of the Spirit: recollection,
asceticism, charity, hope, gentleness, and patience. You
were a wondrous, living proof that faith and goodness are
the pat leading to heaven.
2. The grace of the Spirit who dwelt in your gentle, pure
heart adorned you with all the virtues, o holy father, and
made you resplendent with many charisms. Thus, you were a
champion for Christ in keeping with your name, O George,
who wisely cultivated all the furrows of your soul.
1. With hope in the blessings to come, freely and joyfully
you endured all your sufferings, for you were eagerly
straining forward, forgetful of what had passed, until you
reached your blessed end, O venerable George, filled with
virtuous deeds, and obtained everlasting happiness.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Hail, true throne of God, Ark of life, seat
of the King! Hail, inexhaustible fountain of holiness,
vessel of the Spirit and of the delights of Paradise,
spiritual intoxication of souls! Hail, joy of holy monks
and happiness of all who take refuge in you, O divine
Bride!
(or Stavrotheotokion) Overcome with grief, her face bathed
in bitter tears, the spotless Ewe looked up to the tree of
the Cross, and lifting up her hands, she cried aloud: "O
my Son, where can I go? Whom can I ever call again my
Son? Alas! I am left desolate, my Child, and my sight
grows dim, for I am wounded deeply within, and my maternal
heart is broken!"
(If needed, Troparion from common)
(Ron: Please check if RaYa gives one. . . insert here)
ORTHROS
(Please check if Raya gives a proper Kontakion. . . insert here)
Martyrikon of the occuring Tone
Synaxar i on
On April 4, we commemorate our venerable Father George of
Mount Maleum (spelling Raya?)
It was while you were singing, O holy George, that you
surrendered to the Gardener who sowed our bodies. On the
fourth, amidst celestial hymns, George rises to the high
heavens where he is celebrated by the angels.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
April 5
Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Claudius,
Diodoros, Victor, Victorinus, Pappias,
NicePhoros and Serapion
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 4)
3. Your eyes gouged and torn out, your limbs dismembered,
your sides wounded as you hung, your bones broken and your
bodies tormented by the cutting sword, you crushed the
head of the Deceiver; for you never denied the Savior of
all nor foolishly offered sacrifice to the graven idols, O
wondrous and great martyrs!
VRSPF:RS
2. Let us venerate the illustrious martyr Nicephoros,
together with Claudius, Diodoros, Victor and Victorinus,
as well as Pappias and Serapion. The holy company, the
sacred seven, the band and body at full strength
courageously struck down whole hosts of demons as they
underwent the sword.
1. Let us magnify the martyrs who imitated the holy passion
of Christ; by divine grace, they can drive away the
passions of those sffering in soul and body. Unshakeable
pillars, guiding lights for believers, calm harbor in
storms and defenders against the evil one, they have been
found worthy to dwell on high.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) The Virgin, the Mother of the Lord, is the
spotless tabernacle, the living cloud, the most holy
temple of our God, the bridge over which He alone has
passed, the chamber found spacious enough for the
Infinite, the golden vessel, the Ark of the Covenant, the
ladder reaching to heaven. Let us all solemnly call her
h 1 essed
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing the Lamb and Shepherd on the
Tree, the one who gave You birth, the mother Ewe, cried
out in maternal tears: "O my blessed Son, how can You be
nailed to that Cross, O long-suffering Lord? How can Your
hands and feet be nailed by the impious, o Word? How can
You shed Your blood, O divine Master?"
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
(Ron: check Raya for Troparion...if found, insert here)
Martyr ikon of the occuring Tone
(Ron: check Raya for proper Kontakion...if found, insert here
rather than "Martyrikon...")
Synaxar i on
On April 5, we commemorate the holy martyrs Claudius,
Diodoros, Victor, Victorinus, Pappias, Nicephoros and
SeraPion.
Claudius no longer limps along on two feet; beheaded, he
runs to the feet of his Master. On the fifth, a wicked
hand perpetrates this crime and leaves him short a head.
By the prayers of Your Saints, O Christ our God, take pity on
us and save us. Amen.
April 6
Commemoration of our Father among the Saints
Eutychius, Patriarch of Constantinople
( 5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 8)
3. Lord, You made Eutychius blossom in the meadow of Your
delights, and You wondrously let him drink from the
streams of Your wisdom. Thus he poured forth rivers of
knowledge, bringing joy to the faithful who wholeheartedly
magnify You.
VESPERS
2. Lord, You know all hearts and understand in advance their
secrets. seeing the Patriarch Eutychius to be a chosen
vessel, You made him shepherd of Your Church. Thus he
leads it to the pastures of the faith.
1. Lord, You made the holy patriarch shine like a jewel with
grace and made him radiant in his hierarchical vestments.
In Your mercy and at his prayers, make us also shine with
virtue that we may always sing to You with purity in the
true faith.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Pure Virgin, you brought into the world the
Lord who rests among His holy ones. Purify me of the
passions which defile me to my shame, and guide me along
the ways of purity, O never-failing protectress of all
your servants.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Lord, You willingly stretched out
Your hands on the Cross and thus fulfilled Your Father's
plan as You suffered the Passion. In Your mercy, You have
come to save mankind. Thus spoke the all-pure Theotokos
whom we hymn and glorify.
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
(Ron: check if Raya gives one.. insert here)
nRTFl;!n.<:
Kont ak i on (Tone 8)
O faithful, let us all sing of Eutychius as the great
hierarch and chief shepherd, the wise teacher who drove out
heresies. Let us wholeheartedly call him blessed, for he
intercedes with Christ on behalf of us all.
(Ron: check if Raya gives another translation)
Synaxar i on
On Aprl 6, we commemorate our Father among the Saints
Eu t ych i us, Patriarch of Constantinople.
Once Eutychius said to God, "Now You shall dismiss Your
servant;" the angels formed an escort to lead him from
earth to heaven; and I consider it an honor to praise him.
On the sixth, heaven's gates were thrown open for the soul
of Eutychius.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen .
April 7
Commemoration of the Holy Martyr Calliope, and of
our venerable Father George, Metropolitan of Mytilene
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
For Calliope (Tone 8)
6. Champion athlete, illustrious martyr, for the sake of
Christ our God you courageously endured the racking of
your body and dreadful torments. You joyfully foght the
good fight, and now you are crowned with glory. You ask
pardon and mercy for the faithful who honor your holy
memory.
5. O athlete, your martyrdom deserves our praise: for when
they crucified you for the sake of Christ, who had
suffered on the Cross, you heard from on high the holy
voice of the almighty Father calling you to the heavenly
mansions, O wondrous martyr, where you received the reward
of a victor. Thus we acclaim vou and call you blessed.
4. Enkindled with love for your God, through the dew of the
Spirit you endured the fire with which they burned your
body; and you became a radiant torch consuming all the
errors of idolatry. Thus we call you blessed and
fittinqlv celebrate today your holy memory.
For George (Tone 1)
3. You willingly venerated the holy icon of Christ, o father
George, without fearing the enemies of God, strengthened
as you were by His power. Entreat Him now to grant our
souls peace and great mercy.
2. You endured the rage of haughty fools. You saw them first
exalted with the arrogance of impiety - then cast down
when the Providence of God began to act to openly punish
the senseless ones.
1. Working with God as a priest, o holy George, you offered
also to the Master the souls of the faithful saved by your
preaching, the harvest bearing fruit a hundredfold. Now
entreat Him to strengthen the Church by the teaching of
the true faith.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) O Mary, divine chariot surpassing all spirits
in purity, carry me away from my encircling sins; lead me
to a place of repentance, surrounding me with your
powerful protection. You have the power to do this as the
Mother of the all-Powerful God.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing her Lamb upon the Cross with
no beauty nor form, the Virgin Ewe and spotless Lady cried
out in tears: "Alas, O my Son! What has happened to Your
beauty? Where is Your wondrous appearance, my Child?
Where is Your radiant charm, o my beloved Son?"
(If needed, Troparia from the commons)
(Ron: if RaYa gives Troparia, insert here)
ORTHROS
Martyrikon of the occuring Tone
(Ron: if Raya gives proper Kontakia, insert here rather than
"Martyrikon....")
Synaxar i on
On April 7, we commemorate the holy martyr Calliope.
Nailed upside dwn on the cross, O Calliope, you glorified
the Word who was crucified upright. On the seventh day of
April, the holy martyr found endless life before God, the
Lover of Mankind.
On the same day, we commemorate our Father among the Saints,
George, Bishop of Mytilene.
Among its treasures, George, the city where you were
bishop glories in possessing your body.
By the prayers of Your Saints, O Christ our God, take pity on
us and save us. Amen.
April 8
Commemoration of the Holy Apostles Herodion, Agabus,
Rufus, Asyncritus, Phlegon and Hermes, counted among
the Seventy Disciples
(5th Class)
VF!::PF!
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 4)
3. Like eagles on the wing, you passed throughout the whole
world as you sowed your holy teachings, and, through
grace, brought an end to the drunkeness of error. Thus
you harvested a hundredfold, deposited throughout the ages
in the spiritual grainaries of the Immortal Gardener.
2. Let us bless Herodion, Agabus, Asyncritus, Rufus, Hermes
and Phlegon, for they are brancheson the true Vine,
bearing fruit and distilling the sap of our salvation,
which brings joy to the thirsty hearts of the faithful who
celebrate their wondrous memory with true faith.
1. Lifted up to heaven by your spirit, you proclaimed the
glory of our God in His voluntary Incarnation. O Apostles
who saw God, you are guides for believers, foundation
stones for the Church, unshakeable ramparts, harbors of
faith, stewards of the ineffable Mysteries of God and
enlighteners of our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Virginal Mother of God, all-pure and
spotless, unequalled in holiness: do not despise me,
cursed and impure as I am, source of every defiled and
shameful deed; do not allow me to be lost, but deliver me
from my passions and save me through repentance!
(Or Stavrotheotokion) He who sprinkled you with dew, then
ineffably took flesh from your womb, had compassion on
your bitter tears and grief, and spoke to you as a Son:
"Weep no more, Virgin Mother. Although I am willingly
suffering even death, I shall arise and glorify those who
magnify you with sacred hymns!"
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
(Ron: check if Raya gives proper Troparion. . . insert here)
ORTHROS
Kon t ak i on (Tone 2)
Venerable apostles and disciples of Christ, Herodion,
Asyncritus and Rufus, together with the wondrous Phlegon,
Agabus and Hermes: ceaselessly entreat the Lord to grant
peace and remission of sins to those who sing of you.
(Ron: check if RaYa gives another translation)
Synaxar i on
On April 8, we commemorate the holy apostles Herodion,
Agabus, Rufus, Asyncritus, Phlegon and EIermes, who are
counted among the Seventy Disc-ipIes.
Having run the race as he preached the Gospel, Herodion
found the unfading crown in heaven. Remembered by the
Savior of our souls, the prophet and apostle Agabus shines
with a halo In company with David, Phlegon, who
extinguished the flames of error, now beholds the angels
as flaming fires. Paul speaks of the greatness of the
apostle Rufus, making his praises fit that chosen soul.
Undeniably, Asyncritus transcends all testimonials, for he
was praised by the mouth of Saint Paul. Hermes righly
claimed the palm by his merits. On the eighth, they left
ollr eni 1 fnr hoavfFn
By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save
us. Amen.
April 9
Commemoration of the Holy Martyr Eupsychius
of Caesarea
(5th Class)
VF9PRI49
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 8)
3. By the stroke of a sword, the most wise Eupsychius
confounds the idolatrous Apostate who was swollen with
pride, and he is joyfully united to the heavenly hosts.
At his prayers, O Savior, grant us great mercy.
2. For the Church, the wondrous Eupsychius has been an
indestructible tower, a pillar of the faith; he overcame
the adversary and became an abundant fountain of healing
for the sick who have recourse to him. At his prayers, o
Savior, qrant us great mercy.
1. As a lily, O noble martyr, you shed the gentle fragrance
of your deeds to our souls, driving away the stench of
error. Shining like the sun upon the world, intercede
that we might receive great mercy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) You gave birth to the saving Word, O Virgin
Theotokos. Deliver your servants from the temptations of
the hostile adversary; enlighten our hearts and lead us
along the path of salvation that we may glorify you in
faith!
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing You nailed to the Cross, O
long-suffering Lord, Your Mother flowed with tears at the
sight. But, struck suddenly by Your extreme goodness and
love for mankind, she began to sing of Your infinite
mercy.
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
(Ron: if Raya gives proper troparion, insert here)
ORTHROS
Martyrikon of the occur ing Tone
(Ron: if Raya gives proper Kontakion, insert here, rather
than "martyrikon of . . . "
Synaxar i on
On April 9, we commemorate the holy martyr Eupsychius of
Caesarea.
The sword separates Eupsychius from the region of
Caesarea, that place where Christ once walked. On the
ninth, the martyr makes his entrance into heaven, beheaded
by a sword, but crowned by God.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
April 10
Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Terence, Pompeius,
Maximus, Macarius, Africanus and their companions
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "o Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 4)
3. A multitude of torments were bravely endured by this
multitude of martyrs of many names. With joy they went to
the one, true God, whom we adore, there to rejoice with
the hosts of bodiless angels, since they overcame the
serpent and his hordes by their resoluteness and by the
grace of the Spirit.
2. With hymns, let the sublime Terence and the wondrous
Pompeius be glorified, the renowned Macarius and Maximus,
the divine Africanus, and with them the whole band of holy
martyrs who have won the Kingdom on high by their blood
and are filled with eternal glory.
1. Neither hunger nor peril, neither life nor death, could
separate you from the love of your Creator, O wondrous
martyrs. Thus you have inherited the Kingdom of heaven,
inexhaustible honor and endless joy. On our behalf,
entreat the Giver of all good things for mercy and the
rfbmics:imn nf <7llr oins::
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) I pray and entreat you, the fountain of
holiness, the golden Ark shining with the radiance of the
Spirit: O Lady, send your pure light upon my soul,
evnslaveir by the passlons; deliver me from the bitter
tyranny of the demons; and by your prayers, give me the
way to salvation.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Your spotless Mother, all worthy to
be hymned, O Master, beheld You led as a lamb to Your
voluntary slaughter. In tears she called out to You:
"What is this course upon which You have set out, O my
Son? Where are You going, o my Beloved? I want to go
with You into death, o Word Do not leave me here
childless and alone, for without seed I have given birth
to You!"
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
[Ron: if RaYa gives a proper Troparion, insert it here)
{1RTS
Kon t ak i on (Tone 2)
To the joy of the whole world, the holy commemoration of
Terence and his companions in martyrdom has come once again
today. Let us hasten to them with fervor in order to find
salvation, for they have received from God the power to heal
the sufferings of our bodies and our souls.
{RON: see if RaYa qives another translation)
Synaxar i on
On April 10, we commemorate the holy martyrs Terence,
Pompeius, Maximus, Africanus and thirty-six others, among
whom are Zeno, Alexander, Theodore and Macarius.
Tell me, O noble and triumphant Athlete, what reward di
you find in heaven for losing your head on earth? "Ah, it
exceeds all that eyes, ears and hearts can konw!" Thirty-
nine martyrs, imitating Terence, were harvested by the
sword on the tenth, and they found the object of their
qreatest hoPe.
By the prayers of Your Saints, O Christ our God, take pity on
us and save us. Amen.
April 11
Commemoration of the Holy Hieromartyr Antipas,
BishoP of Pergamum
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 2)
3. You drank deeply of the grace of the knowledge of Christ
from the inexhaustible fountains of John, who had reclined
upon the breast of the Master and was sent to preach God
the Word. You have passed on those living streams to all,
as you followed in the way of the Apostles. Having
confidence in the presence of God, intercede for all those
VFSUPF!PR
who praise your name.
2. Having lived gloriously and acquiring the treasure of the
virtues, Ovenerable Antipas, you left all things and set
off to the Lord like Abraham of old, filled with honor by
your good fight. Thus you gained glory on high where you
rejoice with the disciples of Christ and intercede for us
who honor vour martYrdom with faith.
1. Since you received from the inexhaustible gifts of the
Paraclete the grace of healing, deign to visit and heal
the sufferings of our souls and bodies. Calm all pain and
infirmity, O venerable father; and save from danger and
shame all those who honor your memory as they glorify the
Lord.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) O Virgin filled with grace by God, you have
pity and compassion; you possess an ocean of mercy. Let
it drown my sins and wash away the stains of carelessness,
o Lady. Saved from all evil, may I magnify your holy name
throughout all the ages.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) When You were nailed to the Cross as
a spotless Lamb, O Savior, and Your side was pierced, the
sun hid its rays, the earth quaked, and the rocks were
split. In fear, the veil of the Temple was torn asunder.
Shaken by tears, Your Mother cried aloud, "Glory to Your
ineffable mercv O mv Son!"
(If needed, Troparion from common)
(Ron: if Raya gives a proper one, insert it here)
ORTHROS
Kon t ak i on (Tone 4)
o blessed one, you are the companion of the Apostles, the
jewel of hierarchs and the glory of martyrs. You shine like a
sun over the whole world, scattering the dark night of
godlessness. Thus we venerate you, O hierarch Antipas, as a
true hieromartyr and renowned healer!
(Ron: check if Raya has different translation)
synaxar i on
On April 11, we commemorate the holy hieromartyr Antipas,
B i shop of Pergamum.
Holy martyr Antipas, as you struggled with the bull, it
burned you rather than wounding by its horns. On the
eleventh, Antipas is roasted by the executioner in a bull,
which carries him to the gates of heaven.
` By histhoTy~`prayers,~ O~our God ,~~ t ake p i-t y~ on us ~~ ~ana ~ save ~ us .
Amen.
April 12
Commemoration of our Father among the Saints
Basil, B i shop of Pharion (check spelling in Raya)
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 4)
3. Your radiant memorial has dawned for believers more
brightly than the sun, enlightening all creation with
divine rays, o blessed Basil, and driving away the night,
the darkness of the evil one and the passions. Thus, we
call you blessed, and each year celebrate you as a shining
lamP and fervent intercessor.
l7F.S:PF.RS
2. With the arrows of your words, O blessed father, you have
wounded the hosts of the impious. Thus the clouds of
heaven made their voice heard while angelic choirs
joyfully praised your courage in your trials. We the
faithful rejoice together with them, venerating you as a
shining lamp and vervent intercessor.
1. Wisely exchanging the goods of earth for those of heaven,
the perishable for the imperishable, you gained immortal
glory in place of that which fades away. In place of your
exile and the trials you endured, you won the ineffable
Kingdom of God, where you exult with the angels and
intercede for the faithful who honor your memory.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
( Theo t ok i on ) Divine Bride, you carried the Coal once seen
by Isaiah, which touched his lips. In you, He has taken
flesh in these latter days, O divine Mother, to purify the
passions of mankind. Consume my sins in the fire of His
Divinity and cleanse me of all my stains.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing Christ deprived of life
although He had put the tempter to death, the all-pure
Virgin cried aloud with bitter tears to Him who had come
forth from her womb and whose wondrous patience amazed
her: "Do not be unmindful of Your handmaid, o beloved
Child, Lover of Mankind; hasten to come to console me!"
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
(Ron: if RaYa qive Proper Troparion, insert here)
ORTHROS
Kon t ak i on (Tone 2)
You are illumined by the radiance of the Most High, O Basil:
send down light upon those who wholeheartedly honor the
trials vou endured in such a holy way as a hierarch and
confessor, O venerable father. Ceaselessly intercede before
Christ our God for the salvation of us all.
(RON: check if Raya gives another translation)
Synaxar i on
On April 12, we commemorate our Father among the Saints,
Basil the Confessor, Bishop of Pharion. (check spelling)
Basil joyfully comes to the end of his life as Christ
invites him to the joys of heaven. As his body goes down
to the tomb on the twelfth, his soul goes up to delights.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
April 13
Commemoration of our Father among the Saints
Martin, PoPe of Rome
f 5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 8)
3. What shall I call you, O Martin? The wondrous teacher of
orthodoxy, the unfailing leader in sacred doctrine, the
denouncer of error, lover of truth, defender of the Word,
courageous advocate, holy hierarch, venerable
wonderworker? Intercede with God for the salvation of our
souls .
2. What shall I call you, O Martin? A river overflowing with
spiritual streams, ceaselessly refreshing souls and making
them fruitful, a lamp shedding the light of faith, a
mountain giving the dew of the joy of God, a preacher of
the word of God, chief defender against heresy? Intercede
with God for the salvation of our souls.
1. What shall I call you, O Martin? A wondrous liturgist
within the everlasting Tabernacle, a most worthy mediator
between the creature and his God, a chalice brimming over
with the divine drink, a sun beaming with the word of
life, rising in the west and appearing in the east?
Intercede with God for the salvation of our souls.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Which is the most wondrous of your blessings
to us? You heal our ills, deliver us from passions; you
repel the criminal attacks of the enemy; you save from
danger those who honor you, divine Bride, and bring an end
to their afflictions. You dispense joy to your servants,
O Virqin, who intercede before God for the salvation of
our souls.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) "What is this strange sight, O my
Son?" asked the Virgin Mother of the Lord. "The pains
which I never experienced on bearing you now pierce my
heart most bitterly. I cannot bear to see You nailed to
the Cross, O Light of my eyes! Make haste to rise and
come aaain in alorv!2'
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
(ROn: If Rava qive ProPer TroParion, insert here)
ORTHROS
Martyrikon of the occuring Tone
(Ron: if Raya gives proper Kontakion, insert here instead of
"Martyr ikon . . . " )
Synaxar i on
On April 13, we commemorate our Father among the Saints
Martin, Pope of Rome.
He who joyfully received Your Body, o Savior, takes leave
of his own body yet remains content. After having served
the Church with fervent vigilance, on the thirteenth, the
illustrious Martin, Pope of Rome, falls alseep
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
April 14
Commemoration of the Holy Apostles Aristarchus, Pudens
and Trophimus, who were counted among the Seventy Disciples
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I cal 1. . "
(Tone 1l
3. o wise apostles, by proclaiming and making God known, you
rescued the nations from total ignorance. Having saved
them, you enabled them to have access to the Word of the
unbegotten Father. Intercede with Him that He grant our
souls peace and great mercy.
2. Let us acclaim the true heralds of Christ: Trophimus,
Aristarchus and Pudens, for they melted the bitter ice of
error by the warmth of the grace of God. They dwell
forever in the never-fading Light, enjoying the reward for
their labors, divinized in their ineffable communion with
God.
1. Following in the footsteps of holy Paul, your wondrous
teacher, you were subjected to constant perils, enduring
many sufferings and imprisonment, and ending your lives as
martyrs beheaded by the sword. Intercede with Christ that
He mav srant our souls peace and great mercy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) You are more spacious than the heavens, and
God was pleased to rest in you; set me free, for I am
imprisoned by the stains of my passions, hemmed in by the
temptations and attacks of misfortune. Strengthen me in
my sufferings, make smooth my course, and send each day
the gentle breeze of your maternal intercession.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing Christ hanging on the Cross,
the Virgin spoke aloud: "A sword has pierced my heart, as
the elder Simeon once foretold. Arise, immortal Lord, I
pray, and glorify with You Your mother and handmaid!"
(If needed, Troparion from common)
(Ron: if Raya gives proper Troparion, place here)
ORTHROS
Kon t ak i on (Tone 2)
The holy feast of the apostles has dawned for us, driving
away the darkness of sin from those who say to them: "Behold,
the Light has come; our deliverance is at hand!"
(RON: see if Raya gives another translation)
Synaxar i on
On April 14, we commemorate the holy apostles Aristarchus,
Pudens and Trophimus, who were counted among the Seventy
Disciples.
As indicated by his name, Aristarchus should be honored
first. His bravery in his struggles is in keeping with
that name. Seeking a treasure that would not be
super f 1 c i a 1, Pudens denies himself, but thus saves his
soul Eager for the triumphant wedding banquet of heaven,
Trophimus offers himself as food for the devouring blade.
On the fourteenth, holy Church acclaims a trinity of
apostles who now behold the consubstantial Trinity.
By the prayers of Your Saints, II Christ our God, take pity on
us and save us. Amen.
April 15
Commemoration of the Holy Martyr Crescent
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "o Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 4)
3. Without regard for your own flesh, O Crescent, you
courageously confronted the most painful fights, the most
treacherous snares, the most deadly struggles, choosing to
die for love of God. Thus the Church of Christ calls you
blessed O wondrous and qreat martyr, as it keeps your
holy memory.
2, Cruelly wounded, your body lacerated, wasted by countless
blows, you never denied the name of Christ, the Splendor
of the Church and His martyrs. Thus we praise and
venerate you, honoring your relics and celebrating the
feast of Your holy memory.
1. Inflamed by a holy love for your Creator, you were not
consumed in the midst of the fire, O blessed Crescent, as
you entrusted your soul into the hands of our God. Thus
you received the crown as a victor, and you intercede for
the remission of sins for those who honor you with love.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Virginal Mother of God, all-pure and
spotless, unequalled in holiness: do not despise me,
cursed and impure as I am, source of every defiled and
shameful deed; do not allow me to be lost, but deliver me
from my passions and save me through repentence!
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing You upon the Cross, o Lord,
Your Virgin Mother was filled with awe; looking upon You
she cried aloud: "Is this what You receive in return from
those who have benefitted from Your blessings? Do not
leave me alone in this world, I entreat You, but quickly
arise, that our first parents may arise with You!"
(If needed, Troparion from common)
Ron: if Raya gives one, insert here)
nDTFTROS
Martyrikon of the occuring Tone
(Ron: if Raya has proper Kontakion, insert here instead of
"Mairtyrikon of....")
Sy ;.~a r i on
en April 15, we commemorate the holy martyr Crescent, from
Myra in Lycia.
It is wondrous thing that Crescent, who mocks the flames,
treats the pyre as though it were a refreshing green
meadow. On the fifteenth, fire takes him to his homeland.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
April 16
Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Agapia, Irene
and Chionia
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "o Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 1)
3. Named for the holy virtues, and nourished by virtue, young
virgins, you courageously climbed to the very height of
faith. You now rejoice in the heighths of heaven, where
YOU ask Christ to grant our souls peace and great mercy.
2. You carefully received from our first mother Eve the
desire to become like God, o young virgins, and you were
divinized through your constant devotion to the Lord.
Your desire fulfilled as you now behold God, ask Christ to
grant our souls peace and great mercy.
1. Courageously loving Christ, these martyrs have cast down
the mighty one who once seduced our first mother by his
cunning. Being powerfully triumphant, they ask Christ to
srant our souls peace and great mercy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Virgin worthy of all praise, you gave birth
to Christ the Savior, the Physician of us all, who brought
healing to every malady by striking down the demon, our
enemy. Heal my soul, so cruelly afflicted by the
passions, and deliver us all from death.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing You unjustly led to
slaughter, O Christ, the Virgin cried out in tears: "sweet
Child, how wrong it is that You should suffer! How can
You, who suspended the earth over the waters, be hung on a
Tree? Do not leave me alone, I entreat You, O Benefactor
of the world and Infinite Compassion, for I am Your Mother
and the Handmaid of the Lord!"
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
(Ron: if Raya gives Troparion, put here)
ORTHROS
Martyrikon of the Occuring Tone
(Ron: if Raya gives proper Kontakion, insert here rather than
"martyrikon of....")
Synaxar i on
On April 16, we commemorate the holy martyrs Agapia, Irene
and Chionia.
The fire seemed like snow to Chionia; with sisterly love,
Agapia joined her there. An arrow from a soldier lifts
you up, Irene, intoxicated in your own blood, to a place
of peace. Cast into a pyre on the sixteenth, Chionia and
Asapaia Precede their sister into paradise.
By their holy prayers, o our God, take pity on us and save
us. Amen.
April 17
Commemoration of the Holy Hieromartyr Simeon the
Persian and His Companions
( 5th Class)
vxsPwns
At "o Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 4)
3. Your holy memorial shines like the sun today, enlightening
the faithful and shedding the radiance of the splendor of
God upon the whole creation, o blessed Simeon. It drives
away the night of the passions and drives out the
obscurity of the demons. Thus we bless you each year,
glorifying you as a lamp for the world and a fervent
int ereessor .
2. Wisely exchanging the goods of earth for those of heaven,
the perishable for the imperishable, you gained immortal
glory in place of that which fades away. In place of the
many torments and trials you endured, you won the
ineffable Kingdom of God, where you exult with those who
shared your martyrdom and intercede for the faithful who
honor your memory.
1. The arrow of your words has pierced the assembly of the
wicked, o holy martyr Simeon. Thus the clouds of heaven
sounded forth their voice, the choirs of angels commended
your bravery in your struggles, and we the faithful
joyfully celebrate your holy dormition as we glorify the
Savior.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Most pure dwelling of the great King, Virgin
all worthy of our hymns, I entreat you to purify my spirit
which is stained by such a multitude of sins and make me
an acceptable abode for the Trinity. Once saved, unworthy
servant that I am, may I magnify your great power and
mercy.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing Christ, the Lover of Mankind,
crucified, His side pierced by the soldier's lance, the
all-pure one began to sing to Him who had been born of
her, whose resignation she admired with wonder: "Do not
forget Your handmaid, my Son, Lover of Mankind; make haste
to come to my consolation!"
(When needed, Troparion is taken from the common)
(RON: if Raya gives proper Troparion, insert here.)
ORTHROS
Martyr ikon of the occur ing Tone
(RON: if Raya gives proper Kontakion, insert here instead of
"Martyrikon...")
Synaxar i on
On April 17, we commemorate the holy hieromartyr Simeon,
Bishop of Persia, and his companions: the priest Abdelas,
Gothazat, Phousik and one thousand, one hundred and fifty
other martyrs.
Simeon, you were resplendent as a great shepherd, but the
-swcri-l has made of you an even greater fighter. Abdelas
escdped the all-devouring, ir sat iakle mouth of dark Hades
by being devoured by the mouth of a wild bear. With no
other ~:hoice than to sacrifice or to die, Gothazat made
the choice of being sacrificed by the sword. Phousik let
them strip off his skin as though it were the garment
woven by Satan's snare. A trinity of fifties died
beheaded because they worshipped the Holy Trinity. Then,
under the sword, a thousand Persians formed that cloud of
witnesses mentioned to us by Saint Paul. On the
seventeenth, the bishop Simeon lifts his head toward the
glory of the martyrs, as that head is cut off from his
neck.
By the prayers of Your Saints, O Christ our God, take pity on
us and save us. Amen.
April 18
Commemoration of our Venerable Father John,
disciple of Saint Gregory the Decapolitan
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 6)
3. With the fear of God as your rudder, O venerable father,
you safely navigated around the instincts of the flesh and
the bitter tyranny of the passions. You found your
delight in God as you adorned your heart with wondrous
virtues. You now dwell with the hosts of holy monks where
you have found that peace which you always desired. O
father John, you ceaselessly remember us who honor with
faith your holy memory.
VESPERS
2. You sought God with a resolute heart, soaring on the wings
of your holy contemplation, ceaselessly directing your
spirit toward Him alone. As your zealous guide, you had
Gregory, vigilant in both name and deed, resplendant in
miracles and prodigies. Enlightened by his radiance, O
blessed one, you safely sailed across the raging ocean of
thiz 1 i fe.
1. O venerable father, you lived as a monk without allowing
yourself to be distracted by this passing life, adorned by
your wondrous deeds. Your heart filled with spiritual
fire, you persevered in tranquil silence, spendiny
yourself in night-long vi3il.- and prayer, until you were
wholly purified and restored in the likeness to God.
After your ascetic struggles, you found the delight of
rest, where you seek the joy of God for those who honor
you .
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
SPirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Pure and spotless Virgin, most holy
Theotokos, ever-virgin Lady, how can I siny to you, the
tabernacle of God, when I am so sullied in my mind and
heart .7 How can I speak of your sublime blessinys, the
grace and mercy which you have constantly poured out on
me? Thus, with trembling I prostrate and cry out to you:
"Hail, consolation of those who call upon you with faith"'
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing the voluntary Passion of the
Passionless One, the spotless Virgin cried out with a
mother's grief: "What an awesome sight! The Creator of
all things visible and invisible, the Lord of Glory, the
King of all the ayes is now unjustly judged and counted
among criminals! Mountains and hills, run with tears that
I may weep, I who am left alone, although I gave birth to
f hfR C r e a t Or ! "
(If needed, Troparion from the Common)
(RON: if Raya gives a Troparion, insert it here)
ORTHROS
Martyrikon of the occuring Tone
(RON: if Raya gives a Kontakion, put it here rather than
"Martyrikon of...")
Synaxar ion
OI1 April 18, we commemorate our venerable father John, the
disciple of Saint Gregory the Decapolitan.
Exult and leap like John the Baptisti for whom you were
named - not in your mother's womb, but in the Eden of the
bosom of Abraham, where you have been made welcome! On
the eighteenth, our venerable father achieved his final
destinv.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
April 19
Commemoration of the Holy Hieromartyr Paphnutius,
and of our Venerable Father John the Hermit, of the
Ancient Laura
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 1)
3. By your patient endurance you cast down the fortresses of
impiety, O valiant Athlete of the Lord, and you received
the crown of victory in heaven; never cease to intercede
for the faithful W}10 venerate your great and holy passion.
2. With faith we glerify the holy struggles and exploits you
joyfI y accomplished as an athelete for Christ crucified;
and with our hymns, O thrice-blessed martyr, we joyfully
celebrate your holy memory.
1. O hieromartyr, your relics are a river flowing with
streams of healing to refresh the hearts of the countless
believers who daily draw near to sing of the good fight
YOU fouqht for Christ.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Sp i r i t, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Joy of the heavenly hosts, powerful
protectless of mankind, pure Virgin: save us who take
refuge in you; for, after Go:~, in you we place all our
hope, O Theotokos~
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing on the Cross the Creator of
all and their Lord, the Virgin Mother wept with bitter
tears and cried aloud: "O my beloved Son, what vision is
this that lies before my eyes? Glory to You, O long-
suffering Lord!"
(If needed, Troparia from the common)
(RON: if Raya gives Troparia, insert them here)
ORTHROS
Martyrikon of the occuring Tone
(RON: if Raya gives Kontakia, insert them here rather than
"Martyrikon of...")
Synaxar i on
On April 19, we commemorate the holy hieromartyr Paphnutius.
If the tomb could make Paphnutius reappear from the earth,
I do not think he would find it fitting, nor would he
care, as long as the silence does not bury his word of
witnessing as a martyr. On the nineteenth, the fate of
Paphnutius was decided.
On the same day, we commemorate our venerable father John the
Hermit, of the Ancient Laura.
It causes joy for the bodiless powers to see born into the
light of heaven the newly arrived John of the Ancient
T.sllrs
By the prayers of Your Saints, O Christ our God, take pity on
us and save us. Amen.
April 20
commemoration of our Venerable Father Theodore Trichinas
( 5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 8)
3. Venerable father Theodore, you offered yourself as a
chosen gift to our God; you spent whole nights in
prayerful vigil, practiced charity, divine contemplation,
hope, faith, purity, profound compassion, humility,
true abstinence and prayer - all of which made of you a
pillar of fire shedding light.
VESPERS
2. Divinely-minded father Theodore, you piously s,ought to
clothe yourself in the tUIlic of truth, th- ve_rlrtent of
salvation; and thus you continually wore over your flesh a
hair shirt and were able to withstand the darts of him who
once stripped us of paradise, for you were strengthened by
the power of the Spirit.
1. God took flesh from a spotless Mother and made Himself
poor for our sake. In a spirit of poverty, you offered
yourself to Him as a living sacrifice, a holy holocaust
and a precious gift, o blessed (,ne. Thus, you have been
enriched with joy in heaven. As you stand before C} st,
we entreat you to ceaselessly intercede that He gran', us
great mercy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
S>irit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) With what eyes could I behold your gracious
face, I who have sullied my fleshly sight by my passions?
How could my profane and sinful lips, O pure Virgin, kiss
your Godbearing icon? How could I stretch out the hands
which I have used to my dishonor, to plead for your divine
grace? O Lady, obtain salvation for me!
(Or Stavrotheotokion) The sun was struck with fear at
seeing You stretched out on the Cross, o Jesus! The earth
quaked, the rocks were split, the tombs were opened in
fright, the powers of heaven were filled with terror. And
the Virgin, seeing You on the Cross, O Lord, cried out:
"zlas! What vision do I behold?"
(If needed, Troparion from Common)
(RON: if Raya gives Troparion, insert here)
~DTRDf~lN
Martyrikon of the occuring Tone
(Ron: if Raya gives Kontakiont put here rather than
"Martyrikon of...")
Svnaxar i on
On April 20, we commemorate our venerable father Theodore
Trichinas.
You die clothed in a hairshirt, O father, after having
struggled against him who once caused Adam to be clothed
in an apron of leaves. On the tewntieth, the God awards a
prize for the virtues of the ascetic.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
April 21
Commemoration of the Holy Hieromartyr Januarius and His
Companions
(5th Class)
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 4)
VESPERS
3. O holy Januarius, you were a hier3r-`, who fought the good
fight as an athelete, and an athlete whG had the dignity
cf a hierarrh. Not with the blood Qt. some sacrifice, but
with your own blood, you entered the tabernacle of heaven,
where Jesus first went as the forerunner of all. There, O
holy Father, you ceaselssly look upon Him, upon Whom the
very angels wish to gaze.
2. Flayed, cast into the fire, thrown to wild beasts, then
sent back to the dungeon, you survived for many days by
the power of God alone, without yielding. You fought the
good fight well as a champion, O wonderworking hierarch,
companion of the bodiless angels!
1. Let us venerate together Desiderius, Proculus, Sosius,
Eutyches, Akoutionos and the wondrous Januarius as sacred
ministers, crowned witnesses of Christ, citizens of the
heavenly Jerusalem and true intercessors for those who
call them blessed.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) The Virgin, the Mother of the Lord, is the
spotless tabernacle, the living cloud, the most holy
temple of OUI God, the bridge over which He alone has
passed, the chamber found spacious enough to contain the
Infinite, the golden vessel, the Ark of the Covenant, the
ladder reaching to heaven. Let us all solemnly call her
h 1 essed .
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing the Lamb and Shepherd on the
Tree, the one who gave You birth, the mother Ewe, cried
out in maternal tears: "O my blessed Son, how can You be
nai led to that Cross O lona-sufferitlq Lord7 How can Your
hands and feet be nailed by the impious, O Word? How ca
You shed Your blood, O divine Master?"
(If needed, Troparion from the common)
(Ron: if RaYa gives Troparion, insert here)
ORTHROS
Martyrikon of the occuring Tone
(RON: if RaYa qives Kontakion, put here rather than
" )
" Mar t yr i kon of the.
Synaxar i on
On April 21, we commemorate the holy hieromartyr, the bishop
Januarius, the deacons Proculus, Sosiusand Faustus, the
reader Desiderius, Eutyches and Akoutionos.
It was April that beheld the noble and holy Januarius
surrender his chosen soul to God by means of a SWOI d .
That same sword served as a lever to lift Faustus,
Procu 1 us and Sosius up to heaven. Des i der i us desired to
dedicate his flesh to Christ; separated from it by the
sword, he went straight to the Lord. Eutyches heartl the
voice of Akolltionos telling him, "My companion, I see that
you wil] offer the same sacrifice!" United to six others
in a common fate, Januarius was separated from his head on
the twenty-first.
By the prayers of Your Saints, O Christ our God, take pity on
us and save us. Amen.
April 22
Commemoration of our Venerable Father Theodores
(5th Class)
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 1)
3. You became a holy initiate in the mystery of the Word, O
father. Radiant with the virtues in the light of the
Spirit, O blessed Theodore, you grant healing to those who
draw near to you to celebrate today your holy memory.
2. You are crowned with heavenly light. By the power of
Christ, you grant healing to those who ask with faith as
they piously celebrate your memory, O blessed
wonderworking father, hierarch worthy of our praise.
1. By keeping His commandments, O Godbearing father, you have
shown yourself to be a laborer in the vineyard of Christ.
Having received the coin of your reward in the Kingdom on
nigh, O Theodore, you constantly intercede for us who
honor vou.
v. Glory be to the Fathel and to the Son and to the Holy
SPirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
(Theotokion) Virgin called blessed by our God, filled with
His grace, powerful protectress of sinners, shelter for
those assailed by misfortune, divine Theotokos to whom we
sin~: be for us a strong support and the refuge for all
believers.
(Or Stavrotheotokion) Seeing You hanging on the Cross, O
Christ, the pure Virgin who gave You birth cried aloud in
grief "O my Son and my God: behold, O divine Word, this
is the work of Your salvation by which You deliver all
mankind from the curse!"
Tropar i on (Tone 4)
You were known for your great holiness from the earliest
years, at a tender age, and proved yourself full of virtues.
You enlightened the world with miracles and put legions of
demons to flight. O hierarch Theodore, intercede with Christ
God that He may save our souls.
(RON: Please check translation given in Raya)
ORTHROS
Kont ak i on (Tone 3)
O father Theodore, mounted in the fiery chariot of the
virtues, you went up the raansions of heaven; living as an
angel among men, you now dwell as a man among the angels of
heaven WhO rejoice. Through the miracles by which you have
been glorified, O Theodore, you are seen to he a chosen
instrument in the hands of the Lord.
(Ron: please check translation in Raya)
Synaxar ion
On April 22, we commemorate our venerable father Theodore
Sykeotes, Bishop of Anastasiopolis.
There was no discord at all between the way Theodore lived
his life in the body and the way his relics now make him
skilled in the art of wonderworking. On the twenty-
second, his crown shone more brightly than gold.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Z\mPn
April 23
Commemoration of the Holy and Wondrous Great-Martyr,
George the Triumphant
(3rd Class)
(Use the translation given in the binder already done for
April. The only thing that must be added is in Orthros:
after the 6th Ode of the Canon, after Kontakion and Ikos,
insert the following:)
Synaxar i on
On April 23, we commemorate the holy and wondrous Great
Martyr George, the Triumphant.
Although you had cut the enemy to pieces, you had to
finally submit yourself to their mortal plots, bowing your
neck under their sword, O holy George On the twenty-
third, the martyr suffered for the sake of Christ.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
1 mon
April 24
Commeir,oration of our Venerable Mother Elizabeth the
Woncierworker, and of the Holy Martyr Sabbas, an Army
(5th Class)
vvrPwns
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 8)
3. Devoting yourself to a life of asceticism, O venerable
Mother, you received from the Holy Spirit the power to
drive away diseases of body and soul and to protect all
those suffering affliction. Therefore, by your prayers,
ask for us all both health and sreat mercy.
2. The ashes of your holy relics restore sight to the blind
and healing for all the sick who come to seek your aid
with faith, O wondrous mother Elizabeth. Therefore, by
your prayers, ask for us all both health and great mercy.
1. You showed compassion, true faith, and love for the Lord
and your neighbor, O blessed m>~t-her, venerable ElizabeAth;
and thus the Spirit made you His dwelling-place with His
divine grace. Therefore, by your intercession, obtain f~r
us health mercY and Peace.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
SPirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
From the occuring Feast in the Pentecostarion
Aposticha from the occuring feast in the Penetcostarion
Troparia (Ron: insert those from Raya or current binder
translation)
ORTS
Kontakion of the Pentecostarion
(Ron: if Raya gives Kontakia, insert here)
~ynaxar 1 on
On April 24, we commemorate our venerable mother Elizabeth
the Wonderworker.
Holy Elizabeth, the magnificent bride, encounters the
divine Word as a wondrous Bridegroom. rind the date of
her wedding banquet in a riddle: it is enough to join four
to twenty.
On the same day, we commemorate the holy martyr Sabbas, an
Army Officer.
When he is cast into the sea as a martyr for the Lord,
Sabbas drowns the deadly spirits of error.
By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save
r Amen
Exapostilaria and Aposticha of the Feast from the
Pen t: ec os t a r i on
April 25
Commemoration of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Mark
(4th Class)
VESPERS
(If it is celebrated as a Feast of the 3rd Class, used the
First Kathisma: Blessed the man)
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
Three stichera are used from the Pentecostarion, then five
for Mark, chosen from the following:
(Tone 1)
6. o faithful, let us sing of him who wrote down the words
spoken by our God, and let us say to the protector of
Egypt: By your prayers and teachings, O holy apostle Mark,
guide us all into a calm life, unbattered by the storms
raging here below.
5. As a companion to Paul, the chosen vessel, you travelled
throughout Macedonia at his side; when you dwelt in Rome,
you were a faithful interpreter and trusted co-worker for
Peter; but then, by fightirig the yood f ight as a martyr in
Egypt, you found the place where you would rest.
4. By the joyful rains of the Gospel, O holy Mary, you
rest~)red Fru~tfuliless to souls that were parched and
hurnt; thus with us the city of Alexandria celebrates with
joy today your holy memory, acclaiming your name and
venerating your holy remains.
3. Hvi~ Mark, you have drunk deeply from Christ, the stream
of lelights; and as though from Eden, you have flowed
f~>rAh radiantly as a river of peace, bathing the face of
the earth in the streams of your preaching of the Gospel
and refreshing all the Churches by your divine teachings.
2. Mnres nnne drowned the EavDtians in the sea. Hut You, O
Mary, have drawn them out from the sea of error by the
power of the One who desceIlded among them in the flesh and
destroyed their idols by His extended arm.
1. Having-received the light of the Spirit, O holy Mark, you
became a man completely spiritual. By your unceasing
desire for the Lord, you stand before God now, divinized
iJy rlis blessed radiance, and you have found both the
source of the Mystery and the goal for which you yearned.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit.
(Tone 6) Grace was poured forth on your lips, O apostle
Mark, and you became a shepherd of the Church of Christ,
teaching the mystical flock faith in the consubstantial
Trinity and undivided Divinity.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
From the Pentecostarion
(If it is celebrated as a feast of the 3rd Class, Entrance;
Joyful Light. Readings: 1) James 1:1-12; 2) James 1:13-27; 3)
James 2:1-13)
Aposticha (Tone 1)
1. O holy Mark, wise in God, you were the pen of a swift
writer who, under divine inspiration, described the
incarnation of Christ and clearly recorded the words of
eternal Life. Intercede that ous names may be written
in the book of life as we ~--,ing to you today with faith and
honor Your ho 1 y memory.
v. Through all the earth, their voice resounds, and to the
ends of the world their message.
2. O wondrous apostle Mark, you travel led throughout the
world, preaching the good news about Christ; you were like
the sun, driving away the darkness of idolatry with the
bright rays of faith. Entreat the Lord to grant our souls
peace and great mercy.
v. The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament
proclaims the sork of His hands.
3. O blessed apostle, in the land where the ignorance of
impiesy ora ea fl<,urished, you preached as a divine heral~d,
driving away dar-kness froin the Egypl‡ians k-f tlze adizrfe
of your wcrrds. EntleaL the Lord to grant our souls peace
and great mercy.
v GlGry be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit.
(Tone 8) Come, and with our psalms and hymns, let us
praise Saint Mark, the preacher of the mysteries of
heaven, the interpreter of the Gospel of Christ; for he is
a river flowing from the mystical Paradise, and with
heavenly rains of grace he waters the fields of our souls,
making them bring forth fruit for Christ our God. By his
prayerSs nay Christ grant to all pardon and great mercy.
v . Now and d 1 ways and forever and ever. Amen.
From the Pentr astarion
Troparioxs (Tvne 3)
O holy Apostle and Evangelist Mark, intercede with the
merciful God that He may grant our souls and forgiveness of
ssns.
v. Glory . . . Now . . .
Troparion of the Pentecostarion
ORTHROS
Use the festal format for Fourth Class Feasts
Sessional Hymns after the First Reading from the Psalter
(Tone 1) Having shone upon the world like the dawn, O holy
Apostle, you scattered the deep shadows of error, bringing
light to souls through faith. Thus today, as it magnifies
Christ, the Church celebrates your light-bearing memory.
v. Glory...Now.
From thr Pvn t s?c aost ar i on
Sessional Hymns after the Second Reading from the Psalter
(Tone 4) Having learned wisdom from the Giver of Life, you
brught wisdom to those who formerly served irrational idols
to the destruction of their souls. Thus, for all ages, we
call you blessed. As you stand before the throne of the Holy
Trinity, o apostle Mark, ceaselessly intercede for the
. . .
rem 1 ss 1 on or our slns.
v. Glory...Now...
From the Pentecostarion
Kontakion (Tone 2)
Having received the grace of the Spirit from on high, O
wondrous apostle Mark, you have torn the snares woven by
false rhetoric. You caught all the nations in your net in
order to lead them to Your Master as you preached the divine
Gospe 1 .
Ikos
o Disciple of the chief of the apostles, together with him,
you preached Christ as the Son of God, strengthening on the
rock of truth those who had been shaken by error. Direct the
paths of heart, conlfirm me also in the truth, that saved
from the ^jnares of the enemy, I my freely g~ 7-i Cy you, o holy
Mark, whc have brought the li>gh{- to llS all as you preached
the divine Gospel.
X I1 a.
i~n April 25, we commemorate the holy apostle and evangelist
Mark .
By dragging the apostle's body around all over the earth,
his murderers sent him straight to heaven without
realizing it. On the twenty-fifth, heaven opens and
extends a warm welcome to Mark who had received cold
rejection and mistreatment by the impious on earth.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen.
Exapostilaria
(Tone 3) In his epistle, the holy apostle Peter refers to you
as his sun; and, for the sake of the E~jy~:,t ians, you wel-e the
first to write down the Gospel of Jesus Sl.list. Thrsugh it,
O A>ostle Mark, ysu have brought light to the whole world
EX dpOSI- i lalion from the Pentecostarion
Praises (Tone 1)
4. Saint Mark is the shining light of Egypt, the wise herald
of the Word and the writer of the Gospel. Let us accldim
him with hymns and divine canticles, for he intercedes
before Christ that our souls be given peace and great
mercy.
3. Saint Mark is.... (Repeat)
2. As the editor of the teachings of Christ our God, you have
brought light to the whole world, proclaiming His coming
in the flesh, His Passion, lIis Resurrection, and His
Ascension to the Father. O holy hpostle, you have brought
the nations to the true knowledge of God.
1. You were the gentle companion of Saint Peter, o holy Mark,
Apostle of the Lold, for you listened carefully to all his
holy teachings. By the grace of the Holy Spirit, you
enlightened the Egyptians, making Christ shine in their
hearts: and vou have become the treasure of Alexandria.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit.
(Tone 6) Grace was poured forth on your lips, O apostle
Mark, and you became a shepherd of the Church of C}lrist,
teaching the mystical flock faith in the consubstantial
Trinity and undivided Divinity.
v. Now and always and forever and ever.
From the Pentecostarion
Great DoxolosY.
April 26
Commemoration of the Holy Hieromartyr Basil,
Bishop of Amasea
( 5th Class )
VESPERS
At "O Lord, to You I call...'2
(Tone 4)
3. You ruled over dll youl- passions, O RasiA, placEng reason
as the supreme ruler and allowing ycuurself to be governed
by the law of God, O blessed one. You rightly became a
steward of God and received the holy anointing, leading
the mystical flock as a true shepherd, you who are the
adornment and treasure of hierarchs and triumphant
athletes.
2. Since you were their leader, the wicked emperor separated
you from your flock. oeeing you preach that the only King
is Christ our GCJd, immolated as a lamb and Savior of
mankind, he cruelly slaughtered you, thus gaining for you
the Kingdom of heaven and eternal fame.
1. You made your path through the waters in a wondrous way, O
illustrious Basil. Before death you had predicted that
you would be cast into the sea; you drifted upon the
waters and were finally given to the city of Amasea as a
precious treasure, a constant intercessor, and a fountain
of healing to ward off all types of sickness.
V. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
SP i r i t now and alwavs and forever and ever. Amen.
From the Pentecostarion
Aposticha from the Pentecostarion
Tropar i on (Tone 4)
Sharer in the Apostles' way of life and successor on their
J.hrones, inspired bXy God, y~u found asceFical erfo>-r as 'hn
.
mearls to contemplation ATud sc; dispensing rightly the wo--d
of tluth, you fought for the faith unto the shedding of yc,ul-
blood. O hieromartyr Basil, intercede with Christ God for
t hs sa ] vat i on of OU1 sou 1 s .
ORTHROS
(Ron: if Raya gives proper Kontakion, insert here;
otherwise:)
Kontah ion of the Pentecostarion
Synaxar ion
On April 26, we commemorate the holy hieromartyr Basil, Bishp
of Amasea.
Wearil;g a robe of mp~rial purple dyed in your own blood,
O Basil, you rign now in heaver with Christ. Since he
never sacrificed to the emperors, the images of Zeus,
Basil was sacrificed on the went y -S i Y~t h .
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
ZS man
April 27
Commemoration of the Holy Hieromartyr Simeon,
Cousin of the Lord
(fith Class}
VESpF~Re,
At "n Lord, to You J call..."
(Tone 4)
3. Holy hierarch, most loyal of the triumphant athletes,
close relative to the Creator, admirable woIlderworkef
brilliant light: o Simeon, you were indeed a ~-uide f;?t
those who were lost, an unshakeable pillar of the Churcl-,
of Christ, an heir of the Kingdom on high, and equal in
dignity to the angels!
VFC pFpC6(r)
2. After torments of all types were inflicted orl your body
causing a multitude of wounds in your countless stJ-uggles,
you were sens t;-i the crcss, imitating Christ who allowed
Himself to be cruciLied. We rejoice in spirit today, O
wondr~nu~. Simeon. as we ~-eleb ate Your radiant memory.
1. Bathed in your OWn blood, O blessed one, you piously
entered into the temple of heaven. Standing before the
Holy Trinity, you radiantly shine with the splendors of
the age to come. As we receive remission of our sins at
your prayers, O Simeon, we joyfully celebrate your holy
memory.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
From the Pentecostarion
Aposticha from the Pentecostarion
Troparion (Tone 1)
O h i er arch Si,nevrl, we reverently acclaim you 5
the L(DrI1} .a coilFtant witness who destroyed
>;in of
erl~or
v~->;r
faultlœl~-ily kept the faitl, ~,s we celeh~~ ,tf J J 2a.9 y ;r
m;-rxioryt, by yc r prayers cVtain for us ^ e -zelaission --,f
s a
ORTHROS
iont ak i on (Tone 4)
T;-,day the Church obtains a brilliant star in the person of
Simeon, a perfect teacher of the things of God. Enlightened
by him, we cry out: "Hail, O holy crown of martyrs!"
Synaxar ion
On April 27, we commemorate the holy hieromartyr Simeon,
Bishop of Jerusalem and cousin of the Lord.
As a relative of the God who was crucified on the Tree, O
Simeon, you drank from the cnalice of Christ. On !che
twenty-seventh, Simeon was lifted up on the cross.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen
April 28
Commemoration of the Holy Apostles Jason and Sosipater
(5th Class)
VESFE2S
At "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 1)
3. You renounced the pleasures of this life for love of
Christ to whom you consecrated yourselves as you followed
in His footsteps in faith. o Jason and Sosipater,
intercede with Him that our souls be granted peace and
great mercy.
VESFE2S
Z. O Jason and Sosipater, enlighten my mind whieh is darkened
by the passions; for you enlightened the wro]e world by
your divine teachings, driving back the shadows of
idolatry and leading mankind to complete salvation in
Christ our God.
1. Christ our God sent you forth, O Jason and Sosipater, to
call back those who were lost, leading them to salvation
through your wise teachings. Intercede with Him that our
souls be qranted Peace and ~ eat mercy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always an, Eorever and ever. Amen
From the Pentecostarion
Aposticha from the Pentecostarion
Tropar i on (Tone 3)
O holy Apostles, intercede with the merciful God that He may
arant our souls the forgiveness of sins.
nRTEROS
Kon t ak i on (Tone 2)
Enlightened by the teachings of Saint Paul, O blessed ones,
you became guides for the whole world; for you give light to
the earth by your ceaseless miracles, O Jason, SOU1 ce of
heal ing, and Sospipater, wondrous witness to Christ.
uoc1bearirjg apostles, our protectols in danger, intercede with
God for the salvdl iOfj of our .-~,u;.-~
Ikos
Apostles, preachers of God, heralds of the faith, venerable
teachers of the faithful and their protectors: you st~;ltd
before God, wearing crowns, and are filled with His light.
We entreat you to grant us light that we may revel-enL ly
glorify your solemn feast with hymns in your honor We are
all your flock, rescued from error by grace. Since you are
saviors of the faithful, hasten to intercede confidently with
the Creator for the salvation of our souls.
Synaxar i on
On April 28, we commemorate the holy apostles Jason and
So ater, who are counted among the Seventy Disciples.
.J~ on reaches the end of this passing life, hut he
›AJJC'OUP .. .`S another l i 'e that ha*; no end When 4,:ht ear t"
lNe sh~(r)v-ele~ -ver S-,sipater, God openevl l;p f ~,r h i Sn S iH i
uIlfadillg glory in heaven. On the twenty-eighth, Jason was
lifted up from the earth, and Sosipater l(Doked upon the
dwelling of the Father.
By their holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save
: Rmon
ExapQst i I aria
(Tone 3) The brilliant feast of the divine apostles invites
the inhabitants of Corftl to enter into the celebration: Come,
al] of YOU and be filled with spiritual joy!
Ex.aDGstilarion from the Penter s t arion
April 29
Ccjmme~TIc,ralL ion of the Holy Martyrs of 5yzica
(5th Class)
VESPERS
AF "O Lord, to You I call..."
(Tone 8)
3. O wondrous witnesses to Christ, although the error of
idolatry prevailed, drawing all men to the abyss of
iniquity, you never .van~ered from the straight an~d narrow
way, nor did you abandon yourselves to godlessness. You
courageously fought the good fight. Put to death by the
sword, you received true life as your inheritance.
2. Theognis, Rufus, Antipater, Theosticos, Artemas and
Magnus, Theodotos, Philemon and thee wondlous Thaumasios
were resplendent in their martyrdom, shedding light upon
hearts caught in darkness. O faithfu], let us venerate
and bless them, ceZebrating them with hymn; and
remembering them with holy joy.
1. Bollqllet of martyrs, delightful hlossoms, band urited in
holiness, assembly formed by the eall of God, wondrolls
brotherhood, elect of God, blessed army, choir ofholy
ones- yol: fought the good fight for the sake of the Holy
Trinity. Entreat Him to bestow upon us the remission
of sins, Peace and great mercy.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
From the Pentecostarion
Aposticha from the Pentecostarion
Tropar i on (Tone 4)
Ycur martyrs, O Lord, received the crown of immortatity from
YOU, O OU1 God, on account of their struggle. Armed with
Your strength, they have vanquished their persecutors, and
crushed the powerless arrogance of demons. Through their
supplications, O Christ God, save our souls,
(Ron: check if Raya gives anrjther one isntead of this)
nRTHROS
Kon t ak i on (Tone 2)
The choir of nine martyrs, so resolute and resplendent,
confessors of the Threefold Divinity, with reason stood
before the judgment seat and sang to Him: "we offer our
souls, our bodies and our blood as an acceptable sacrifice tc
You, O Ll)rd God of c<~msdassion, that we may bel<~r,g to Your
choirs in heaven."
(RON: check if Raya givFles another Kontakion or another
translation of this one)
Synaxar i on
On April 29, we commemorate the holy martyrs of Cyzica:
The GgniS, Rufus, An LiPat er, Theosticos, Artemas, Magnus,
Theodo tos Thaumasios and Philemon.
As an image of the nine choirs of bodiless powers, these
nine lay aside all earthly cares. On the twenty-ninth,
they find the treasures of heaven.
By the prayers of Your Saints, O Christ our God, take pity on
us and save us. Amen.
April 30
Commemoration of the lioly and Glorious hpostle James,
the Brother of Saint John the Theolozian
(4th Class)
VESPERS
(If it is celebrated as a Feast of the3rd Class, use the
First Kathisma: Blessed the man.)
At "o Lord, to You I call.
(Tone 8)
3. James, hlessed eye-witness of God, when the Wold called
yGU as you worked, you responded at once, withnut being
dissracted hy the respert due your father nor your love
for him. Leaving behind your concerns in thi--, life, O
b'-s,sCd Ap~t-.t 1, P you (r)ast forth into tke depths of thought
with the teachings Gf the faith and the wondrous
revelations of the age to come.
2. James, blessed Apostle of Christ, by your works you served
the Word, the Lord of our life and of the age to come.
Like a new Jacob to Esau, you supplanted the seniority of
the descent of Israel who from its birth had made itself a
god. You obtained the Father's protection, winning his
inheritance and blessing.
1. o glorious James, the Lord has made you a prince over the
earth forever, ›s is writt;e,; the Psalms. Betallse of
your fervent zeal as a disc.ple of lhe Creator of all, you
were put to death by the sword of the impious the first
t rn m11 f f Pr f rnm the C hoc4en Twe 1 ve .
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit.
(Tone ø) You were first of the Twelve chosen by God, to
suffer death for your Master under the sword of Herod; you
were first to drink of the chalice promised you by the
Lover of Mankind; and you were also the first to be
welcomed by Him as a coheir of His Kingdom in heaven,
where you intercede together with your brother for the
salvation of OU1 souls.
v. Now and always and forever and e-ver. Amen.
From the Pentecostarion
kIr it is celebratet-l as a Feast of higher rank, Entrance.
Joyful Light. Re>t1;r,gs: 1) James 1:1-12; 2) Jalr,ts 1:13-27;
3) James 2:1-13.
Aposticha (Tone 4)
1* Usir,g divine grace as youl- rod, wond-rous Ja~es, you fish
mankind from the sea of vain deceptions, obedient to the
command your Master gave to you. He has filled your soul
with lighl, o blessed one, making you an apostle and a
preacher of His ineffable Divinity.
v. Through all the earth their voice resounds, and to the
ends of the world their message.
2. The l,ight of the Spirit came down upon you in the for!ll of
fire, n blessed apostle James, and made you His ins.ruinent
to put to flight the shadows of godlessness, as you
illumined the world with the radiance of youl wise words,
O eye-witness of Christ.
v. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament
proclaims the work of His hands.
3. With the radiance of your teaching, O glc,rious apostle
James, you shed light on those who dwelt in the darkr,ess
of error, makiny them, through faith, sons of your Master
and our God. You imitated Him in His suffering 3.iv e8.th,
and thus became an heir of His glory as a true discipZe
ond hrrs 12 nf r7nd
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit .
(Tone 1) Holy apostle and martyr James, lamb chosen by the
Good Shepherd, you exult now with your brother in heaven.
Ask for us who celebrate your holy memory the pardon of
our sins and qreat mercy.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
From the pentecostarion
Tropar i on
(RON: insert the one found in Raya...I think there is a
proper one given)
ORTHROS
Use Festal Format, for Fourth Class Feasts
Sessional Hymns a,rter the First Reading from the Psalter
(Tor,e 2) The glorious apostle has caught the nations in his
ne. and has taught the whole world to adore You, O Christ our
God, together with the Father and the Spirit. By his
prayers, Lord, make firm Your Church, and send down Your
blessing upon the faithful, O only Lover of Mankind and
merciful Lord.
v. Glory be ... Now .....
From the Pentecostarion
zessional Hymns after the Secont1 Reading from the Psalter
(Tone 4) Christ, the Sun of ~7ustice, sent- -YOU fO1th, O
glorious awtJstle James, as a lsay to el-itLghteJi the w}Lole
world. By y . prayers, shed the never-setting Light of God
UpOIl all the faithful who celebrate your holy memory.
v. Glory be ... RJow...
From the Per-ltecostarion
Kon t ak i on (Tone 2)
Hearing the voice of God calling, O glorious apostle James,
you left behind the love of your father and hastened with
your brother to Christ. Together with him, you were worthy
to hahold the divine Transfiquration of the Lord.
Ikos
You are a fisherman of the mystical fish, O blessed one.
Cast the net of your prayers to draw out from the sea of my
sins my soul which is captive to the pleasures of t'lis life.
Running the rest of the course of my life without ssumbling,
may I celebrate your name and glorify the holy life you led,
which allowed you on the mountain to behold the divine
Transfiguration of the I.ord.
(RON: if this must be reconciled with the transfiation given
i dya, do so mercifully...trying to leave the same ending
tU a~ree with the Ikcs)
>,ynaxal ion
On Apl-i 1 30, we Comn,tAmOrate the holy and glorious apostle
James, brothol- of Saint John the Theo]ogian.
Immolated as a lemh who was nourished hy grazing on the
words of the Paschal Lamb, the holy apostle .Tames he~omes
the -,econd martyr and is led to the pastures of heaven.
On the thirtieth, James is led to the 51 aughter by the
murdering sword.
By his holy prayers, O our God, take pity on us and save us.
Amen .
Exapos t i 1 ar i on (Tone 2)
In the compassion of His he-lrt, O holy ~;~mes, the Word made
flesh chose you to be one of His Apostles and numbered you
invong their leaders. Is ior. with them, pray to Christ our
God fol us who celeL;-3tc yrvuI sly
From the Pentecostarion
Praises (Tone 4)
4. tJsing divine grace as your rod, ~ .-. James, yell fish
mankind from the sea of vain decepticsns, olrJedient 'o the
commaIld yor Master gave to you. He has filled your soul
with light, O blessed one, making you an apostle and a
preacher of His ineffable Divinity.
3. Using divine grace .... ( Repeat )
2. The Light of the Spirit came down upon you in the form of
fire, O blessed apostle James, and made you His instrument
to put to flight t t;Je she(lDws of godlessness, as you
i 1 lul~i. ed the wrjrld with tl-,e radiarsUtD f)f your wise words,
O eye-witness (>E C'lrist.
1. Wi i '-l the radiallce of your teac'^ , O glorious apostle
James, you shed Sight on thc,se who dwelt in the darkness
oœ erlor, makil-Lg theiii, thrcsugh faith, SOI1S of your Master
and our Gcsd. You imit<<'ed Him .I1 His suffering and deat'1,
and thus became an heir of His glory as a true disciple
nnd hRrald of God.
v. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit.
(Tone 8) Come, with psalms and hymns let us praise Saint
James, the preacher of the mysteries of heaven, the
servant of the Gospel of Christ. With heavenly rains,
this river frcslh the mystic Para(1ise >1aters the field of
our souls, making them fruitful for Christ nur God, who,
at his prayers, grants forgiveness and great mercy tcs all.
v. Now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
From the Pentecostarion
Great Doxo 1 oqY .