AKATHIST SERVICE

AKATHIST SERVICE
OFFICE OF PRAISE OF THE THEOTOKOS
Translated by
Father Michel Najim and Father Michel Saba

The Akathist service is recited five times during the great lent. Since the stasis is divided into four parts, the first part is read on Friday evening of the first week of the lent, the second part on the second week, the third part on the third week and the fourth part on the fourth week. On Friday Evening of the fifth week all the parts are read.

The priest, being vested in exorasson and epitrachelion, and the deacon, being vested in exorasson and orarion, standing before the closed Royal Doors, make three metanias and say in audible voices:
Deacon: Bless, Master.
Priest: Blessed is our God, always, now and ever, and unto ages of ages.
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People: Amen.
Priest: Glory to thee, our God, and our hope, glory to thee.
O heavenly King, O Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, who art in all places, and fillest all things, treasury of good things, and Giver of life, come and dwell in us, and cleanse us from every stain and save our souls, O Good One.
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People: Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us. (Three Times)
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever, and unto ages of ages, Amen.
All-Holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us from our sins. Master, pardon our iniquities. Holy God, visit and heal our infirmities for thy Name’s sake.
Lord, have mercy, Lord, have mercy, Lord, have mercy.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever, and unto ages of ages, Amen.
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Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Priest: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: now and ever, and unto ages of ages.
People: Amen. Lord, have mercy. (12 times)
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever, and unto ages of ages, Amen.
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O come, let us worship and fall down before God our King. (low bow)

O come, let us worship and fall down before Christ, our King and our God. (low bow)

O come, let us worship and fall down before Christ himself, our King and our God. (low bow)

The Reader reads the following:

PSALM 51<50>
Have mercy on me, O God,
according to thy great mercy,
according to the multitude of thy compassions,
blot out my transgressions.
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,
and cleanse me from my sin.
For I acknowledge my transgressions,
and my sin is ever before me.
Against thee only have I sinned,
and done what is evil in thy sight,
so that thou art justified in thy sentences,
and prevailest when thou passest judgment.
For indeed, I was conceived in iniquities,
and in sins did my mother conceive me.
For behold: thou lovest truth,
thou hast made known to me the secret
and hidden things of thy wisdom.
Sprinkle me with hyssop,
and I shall be clean,
Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Let me hear joy and gladness,
then the afflicted bones shall rejoice.
Turn away thy face from my sins,
and blot out all my iniquities.
Create in me a clean heart,
O God, and put a right Spirit within me.
Cast me not away from thy presence,
and take not thine Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of thy salvation,
and uphold me with a directing spirit.
Then I will teach transgressors thy ways,
and sinners will return to thee.
Deliver me from bloodshed, O God,
the God of my salvation,
and my tongue will joyfully
sing aloud of thy righteousness.
O Lord, open my lips;
and my mouth will declare thy praise;
for if thou hadst delight in sacrifice,
I would have given it;
but thou wouldst not be pleased by burnt offering.
The sacrifice to God is a broken spirit:
a broken and contrite heart,
O God, thou wilt not despise.
Do good in thy good pleasure to Zion,
and let the walls of Jerusalem be built;
then thou wilt delight in a sacrifice of righteousness,
in offerings and whole burnt offerings;
then they will offer bulls upon thine altar.
51( 50)

Psalm 70 <69>
Make haste, O God, to deliver me! Make haste to help me, O Lord!
Let them be put to shame and confusion who seek my life;
let them be turned back and brought to dishonor who desire to hurt me.
Let them be turned back because of their shame who say, “Aha, aha!”
Let all those who seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee;
and let those who love thy salvation say continually,
“Let God be magnified!” But I am poor and needy;
make haste to me, O God! Thou art my help and my deliverer; O Lord, do not delay.
70 (69)
Psalm 143 (142)
Hear my prayer, O Lord;
give ear to my supplications
in thy faithfulness;
answer me in thy righteousness.
Enter not into judgment with thy servant,
for no one living is righteous before thee.
For the enemy has persecuted my soul,
crushing my life to the ground,
making me sit in darkness like those
who have been long dead.
Therefore, my spirit was grieved within me;
my heart within me was troubled.
I remembered the days of old,
I meditated on all thy deeds,
I meditated on the works of thy hands.
I stretched out my hands to thee;
my soul thirsts for thee like a dry land.
Answer me quickly, O Lord;
my spirit has failed.
Hide not thy face from me,
or I shall be like those who go down to the pit.
Let me hear of thy mercy in the morning,
for in thee I have put my hope.
Teach me the way I should go,
for to thee have I lifted up my soul.
Save me, O Lord, from my enemies;
I have fled to thee for refuge.
Teach me to do thy will,
for thou art my God.
Let your good Spirit lead me in a straight path.
For thy name’s sake, O Lord,
give life to me.
In thy righteousness,
bring my soul out of affliction.
In thy mercy, destroy my enemies;
and bring to naught all my adversaries;
for I am thy servant.
143 (142)



The Doxology

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will among men.
We praise thee, we bless thee, we worship thee, we glorify thee, we give thanks to thee for thy great glory.
O Lord, Heavenly King, God the Father Almighty; O Lord, the only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us, thou who takest away the sin of the world.
Receive our prayer, thou who sittest at the right hand of the Father, and have mercy upon us.
For thou alone are Holy, thou alone art the Lord Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father, Amen.
Every day I will bless thee, and praise thy name forever and ever.
O Lord, thou hast been our refuge from generation to generation. I said: Lord, have mercy on me; heal my soul, for I have sinned against thee.
O Lord, unto thee have I fled for refuge: Teach me to do thy will, for thou art my God.
For thou art the source of life, and in thy light shall we see light.
O Continue thy mercy to those who know thee.
Vouchsafe, O Lord, to keep us this day without sin.
Blessed art thou, O Lord God of our Fathers, and praised and glorified is thy name forever, Amen.
O Lord, let thy mercy be on us, even as we have set our hope on thee.
Blessed art thou, O Lord, teach me thy statutes.
Blessed art thou, O Master, make me to understand thy statutes.
Blessed art thou, O Holy One; enlighten me with thy statutes.
Thy Mercy, O Lord, endures forever: Forsake not the works of thy hands. To thee belongs praise, to thee belongs song, to thee belongs Glory, to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever and unto ages of ages, Amen.


THE CREED
I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible; And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Only-begotten, Begotten of the Father before all worlds, Light of Light, Very God of Very God, begotten, not made; of one essence with the Father, by whom all things were made: Who for us men and for our salvation came down from heaven, and was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and was made man; And was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried; And the third day he rose, according to the Scriptures; And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father; And he shall come again with glory to judge the living and the dead, whose kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, and Giver of Life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son together is worshiped and glorified, who spoke by the Prophets; And I believe in One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. I acknowledge one Baptism for the remission of sins. I look for the Resurrection of the dead, and the Life of the world to come, Amen.



THEOTOKION
It is truly meet to bless thee O Theotokos, who art ever-blessed and all-blameless, and the mother of our God. More honorable than the Cherubim, and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim, thou who without corruption, gavest birth to God the Word, and art Truly Theotokos, we magnify thee.
In the Fifth week, the priest dons the phelonion as we sing the following Troparion:
TONE EIGHT
When the bodiless Archangel took knowledge of the secret command, went eagerly to Joseph's house, and said to her that did not know wedlock: 'Lo, He who bowed the heavens in his descent to earth is contained wholly and unchanged in thee. As I see him "taking the form of a slave" in thy womb I become amazed crying out unto thee: Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
In the fifth week, we chant “To thee the Champion Leader…” followed by the first stasis (Page 23) before the canon:
THE CANON
TONE FOUR
(by Joseph the Hymnographer)
CANTICLE ONE
(Irmos) I shall open my mouth and it will be filled with the Spirit, and I shall speak forth to the Queen and Mother: I shall be seen joyfully singing her praises, and I shall delight to sing her wonders.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
When the great Archangel saw thee, living book of Christ, sealed by the Spirit, O pure one, he cried unto thee: 'Rejoice, vessel of joy! Through thee the curse of the first mother is loosed.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, Virgin bride of God, restoration of Adam and death-knell of Hades; rejoice, O most blameless one, the palace of the only King; rejoice, fiery throne of the Almighty.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Rejoice, for thou alone didst give rise to the unfading Rose; rejoice, for thou didst produce the sweetly‑smelling Apple, the fragrance of the King of all. Rejoice, unwedded Maiden, deliverance of the world.
Now, and ever, and to the ages of ages, Amen.
Rejoice, treasury of purity, through thee we rose up from our fall; rejoice, Lady, fragrant lily perfuming all the faithful; rejoice, sweet smelling incense and precious ointment.
CANTICLE THREE
(Irmos) As a living and copious fountain, O Theotokos, do thou strengthen those who hymn thy praises, and are joined together in a spiritual company: and in thy divine glory make them worthy of crowns of glory.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
As a field untilled thou hast given forth the divine ear of grain, Rejoice, living table that hast contained the Bread of Life; rejoice, Lady, unfailing fountain of the living water.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O Heifer that didst bear the spotless Calf[1] for the faithful; rejoice, Ewe-lamb that didst conceive the "Lamb of God who takes away the sins of all the world." Rejoice, O fervent intercessor.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Rejoice, radiant dawn who alone didst bear Christ the Sun! Rejoice, O dwelling‑place of the Light. Rejoice, O thou who didst dispel the darkness, and utterly conquer the gloomy demons.
Now, and ever, and to the ages of ages, Amen.
Rejoice, only gate through which the Word alone didst pass. By thy birth-giving, O Lady, thou didst shatter the bars and gates of Hades. Rejoice, divine entry for the saved, O worthy of all praise.
In the fifth week, we chant “To thee the Champion Leader…” followed by the second stasis (Page 27) before Canticle Four.
CANTICLE FOUR
(Irmos) He who sits in glory upon the throne of Godhead, Jesus the most high God, came in a swift cloud and with His pure hand saves those who cry out unto Him: Glory to thy power, O Christ.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
With faith we utter the praise of song crying aloud unto thee, O Worthy of all praise: Rejoice, fertile mountain made full with the Spirit; rejoice, lamp-stand and vessel of manna, sweet to the senses of the godly.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, pure lady; Rejoice, the mercy-seat of the world. Rejoice, ladder, raised all from the earth by grace; rejoice, bridge that has certainly guided from death to life all those that sing thy praises.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O pure one, higher than the heavens, who without weariness, didst hold within thy womb the Foundation of the earth. Rejoice, sea‑shell that with thy blood didst dye a divine purple robe for the King of Hosts.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Rejoice, Lady that in truth hast given birth to the Lawgiver, who freely wipes away the lawlessness of all. O unwedded one, O unfathomable depth, O inexpressible height, through thee we have been made like God.
Now and ever, and to the ages of ages, Amen.
Thou didst weave for the world a crown not made by hand, and we sing thy praises, saying: O Virgin, Rejoice, for thou art the protection of all, a fortress and rampart and sacred refuge.
CANTICLE FIVE
(Irmos) All creation was amazed at thy divine glory, for thou, O unwedded Virgin, conceived in thy womb the God of all, and didst give birth to the eternal Son, who rewards with salvation all who praise thee.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O all-blameless one for thou didst conceive the Way of life, saving the world from drowning in the flood of sin. Rejoice, Bride of God, thou of awesome tidings to tell and hear; rejoice, dwelling-place of the Master of Creation.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O pure one, strength and fortress of mankind, holy place of Glory; rejoice, death of Hades, bridal chamber, full of light. Rejoice, joy of the angels; rejoice, help of those who implore thee in faith.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, Lady, Fiery chariot of the Word, rejoice, living Paradise, holding in its midst the Lord, the Tree of Life. His sweetness gives life to those who partake in faith, even though corruption once ruled over them.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Strengthened by thy might, we cry out unto thee with faith: Rejoice, city of the King of all! Glorious and laudable things, are plainly spoken of thee. Rejoice, unhewn mountain, and depth never fathomless.
Now and ever, and to the ages of ages, Amen.
Rejoice, O pure one, spacious tabernacle of the Word, oyster which produced the divine Pearl. Rejoice, O wholly marvelous Theotokos who reconciled with God all those who ever call thee blessed.
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CANTICLE SIX
(Irmos) As we, the Godly-minded, celebrate this divine and all-honorable feast of the mother of God, come, let us clap our hands together, and glorify God who was born of her.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, O all-pure one, spotless bridal chamber of the Word, through thee all become god-like. Rejoice, most spotless one, echoing the prophets' words; rejoice, the ornament of the apostles.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
From thee distilled the dew that quenched the flame of polytheism. We, therefore, cry out unto thee: Rejoice, O Virgin, fleece of wool wet with dew that Gideon foresaw.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Behold! we cry out unto thee, 'Rejoice!'. Be thou our haven and shelter, as we are tossed by heavy seas of affliction and the snares of the adversary.
Now and ever, and to the ages of ages, Amen.
O cause of joy, shed grace on our thoughts, so that we may cry out unto thee: Rejoice, bush burning yet unconsumed, a cloud full of light that unceasingly overshadows the faithful.
In the fifth week, we chant “To thee the Champion Leader…” followed by the third stasis (Page 30) before Canticle Seven.

CANTICLE SEVEN
(Irmos) The godly-minded Children, worshipped not the creature but the Creator, bravely trampling upon the threat of fire, as they sang in joy: 'O all- praised Lord, and God of our fathers Blessed art thou.'
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
We sing thy praises, crying: Rejoice! chariot of the spiritual Sun; true vine that did give forth the ripe Cluster of grapes, dripping with the wine that fills with joy the souls of those who faithfully glorify thee.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Rejoice, Bride of God, for thou didst bear the Healer of mankind; mystical rod on whom blossomed the unfading Flower. Rejoice, Lady, for through thee we are made full with joy and inheritors of life.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
No tongue, however eloquent, has power to sing thy praises. Above the seraphim you are exalted, O Lady, for thou didst bear Christ the King. Implore Him now to deliver from every harm those who with faith bow down before thee.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
The nations of the earth praise thee, and call thee blessed, and they cry unto thee: Rejoice, O pure one, scroll written by the Father's hand. Implore Him, O Theotokos, to inscribe thy servants in the Book of Life.
Now and ever, and to the ages of ages, Amen.
We thy servants implore thee, O pure Theotokos, and bend the knee of our heart. Incline thine ear and save us, who sink in afflictions; and preserve thy people from all conquest of the enemy.
CANTICLE EIGHT
(Irmos) The holy Children in the furnace the Child of the Theotokos saved, then was type, now is its fulfillment, and the whole creation gathers to sing: All ye works, praise the Lord, and exalt Him unto all ages.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
O pure one, thou didst receive the Word in thy womb, and didst hold Him Who holds all things. Thou didst feed with milk Him who by His command feeds all the universe; To Him we sing: All you His works, praise the Lord, and exalt Him unto all ages.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
O holy and pure Virgin, Moses perceived in the burning bush the great mystery of thy birth-giving; and the Children represented it in advance, and revealed it clearly as they stood in the midst of the fire and were not burnt. Therefore, we praise thee unto all ages.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
We have by thy child-bearing been clothed with incorruption, who once by deceit were stripped naked; and we have seen the Light, who once sat in the darkness of sins, O Maiden, dwelling‑place of Light. Therefore, we praise thee unto all ages.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Through thee the dead are made alive, for thou hast given birth to Him who is the enhypostatic Life; the speechless are made eloquent, the lepers are cleansed; diseases are driven away; the hosts of aerial spirits are conquered, O Virgin, the salvation of mortals.
Now and ever, and to the ages of ages, Amen.
Thou hast given birth to world’s salvation, O pure one, and through thee we are raised from earth to heaven. Rejoice, O most Blessed one, protection and strength, rampart and fortress of those who sing: All you His works, praise the Lord, and exalt Him above unto all ages.
The Royal Doors are opened and the deacon/priest does the great censing.
CANTICLE NINE
(Irmos) Let all those earth born, illumined in spirit leap for joy, and let the order of the bodiless spiritual hosts celebrate with honor the holy feast of the Mother of God, and let them cry out: “Rejoice! All-blessed, pure, and Ever‑Virgin, Theotokos!”
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
O Maiden, deliver us from temptation, from heathen attack, and from every other misfortune that comes upon sinful mortals, because of the multitude of our sins. Enable us the faithful to cry to thee, Rejoice! For through thee we have become partakers of eternal joy.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Thou hast appeared to be our illumination and confirmation, and so we cry out to thee: Rejoice, never‑setting star that didst bring the mighty Sun into the world; rejoice, O pure one that didst open the locked gate of Eden; rejoice, pillar of fire, guiding mortal men towards the life on high.
Most holy Theotokos, save us.
Let us reverently stand in the house of our God, and let us cry aloud: Rejoice, Queen of the world; rejoice, Mary, the Lady of us all; rejoice, for thou alone art without blemish and most honorable among women; Rejoice, vessel that received the unfailing ointment, poured upon thee.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Rejoice, Ever‑Virgin; rejoice, dove that has given birth to the merciful One; rejoice, pride of all the saints, crown of those engaged in spiritual combat; rejoice, divine ornament of all the righteous and salvation of us the faithful.
Now and ever, and to the ages of ages, Amen.
O God, spare thine inheritance, and overlook all our sins. Receive the intercession of her that on earth conceived thee without seed, when in thy great mercy thou hast willed, O Christ, to assume a form that was not thine own.
In the fifth week, we chant “To thee the Champion Leader…” followed by the fourth stasis (Page 34).
TONE EIGHT
To thee, the Champion leader, I thy city, delivered from tribulation, offer hymns of victory and thanksgiving, since thou hast power invincible, O Theotokos, set me free from all forms of danger, that I may cry unto thee: Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
The priest dons the phelonion. Then, standing in the center of the church, reads the appropriate stasis of the Akathist Hymn, and we all remain standing while it is read.
FIRST STASIS
Oikos One
The annunciation of Gabriel

An archangel was sent from heaven, to say to the Theotokos: Rejoice (three times).
And as he saw thee, O Lord, taking bodily form he stood in awe and with his bodiless voice he cried aloud to her:
1- Rejoice, for through thee joy will shine forth. Rejoice, for through thee the curse will be destroyed.
2- Rejoice, restoration of fallen Adam. Rejoice, redemption of the tears of Eve.
3- Rejoice, height hard for the human thought to ascent. Rejoice, depth hard for the eyes of angels to explore.
4- Rejoice, for thou art the throne of the King. Rejoice, for thou holdest the upholder of all.
5-Rejoice, star making the Sun to appear. Rejoice, womb of the divine Incarnation.
6- Rejoice, for through thee the creation is renewed. Rejoice, for through thee the Creator becomes a babe.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Two
The perplexity of Mary
Beholding herself in chastity, the Holy Maiden spoke boldly to Gabriel: Thy strange words seem hard to my soul to accept. How dost thou speak of childbirth from a virginal conception, crying aloud: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

Oikos Two
Mary’s question and the Archangel’s response

Seeking to know the unknowable, the Virgin cried to him who ministered unto her: 'From a virgin womb how can a Son be born? 'Tell thou me.' Then he answered her in awe, crying:
1- Rejoice, initiate of God's inexpressible will. Rejoice, thou faith in that which demands silence.
2- Rejoice, prelude of Christ's miracles. Rejoice, culmination of His teachings.
3- Rejoice, heavenly ladder by which God came down. Rejoice, bridge leading those of earth to heaven.
4-Rejoice, marvel greatly valued by the angels. Rejoice, wound much mournful to the demons.
5- Rejoice, thou who inexpressibly gavest birth to the Light. Rejoice, thou who hast taught no one how it was done.
6- Rejoice, thou who surpassest the knowledge of the wise. Rejoice, thou who illuminest the minds of the faithful.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Three
The conception of Mary
Then the power of the Most High overshadowed her that did not know wedlock, so that she might conceive, and showed forth her fruitful womb as a pleasant field for all who wish to reap the harvest of salvation, chanting: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

Oikos Three
Mary’s visit to Elizabeth and the hymn of John the Baptist

Receiving God in her womb, the Virgin ran to Elizabeth; when her unborn child heard the Theotokos salutation rejoiced and leaped as it were with songs, and cried to her:
1- Rejoice, vine of unfading bloom. Rejoice, orchard of untainted fruit.
2- Rejoice, thou who dost tend the farmer who loves mankind. Rejoice, thou who dost blossom forth the sower of our life.
3- Rejoice, field producing crops of compassion. Rejoice, table full-laden with an abundance of forgiveness.
4- Rejoice, thou who dost revive the meadow of Eden. Rejoice, thou who dost prepare a haven for our souls.
5- Rejoice, acceptable incense of intercession. Rejoice, oblation for the whole world.
6- Rejoice, good will of God towards mortals. Rejoice, access of mortals to God.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Four
The suspicion of Joseph
Having inwardly a tempest of doubtful thoughts, chaste Joseph was disturbed: knowing thee to be unwedded, O blameless one, he suspected thee of an illicit love. But when he learned that thy pregnancy was of the Holy Spirit, he said: Alleluia!

The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

In the first week, we skip to the Kontakion on page 39.
In the fifth week, we begin the Canon on page 12.

SECOND STASIS
The birth of Christ
Oikos Four
The praise of the shepherds

The shepherds heard the angels singing praises to Christ's coming in the flesh. When they ran to Him as to the Shepherd, they beheld Him as a lamb without blemish, pasturing in the womb of Mary; they sang praises to her, saying:
1- Rejoice, Mother of the Lamb and Shepherd. Rejoice, fold of reason-endowed sheep.
2-Rejoice, bulwark against unseen enemies. Rejoice, key to the gates of Paradise.
3-Rejoice, for the things of heaven rejoice with earth. Rejoice, for things on earth dance with the heavens.
4-Rejoice, never‑silent voice of the apostles. Rejoice, never-conquered courage of the victorious martyrs.
5- Rejoice, firm protector of the faith. Rejoice, shining proof of grace.
6- Rejoice, thou through whom Hades was laid bare. Rejoice, thou through whom we are clothed with glory.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Five
The wise men are led by a star

When they saw the star pursuing divine course, the Wise Men followed in its splendor, and holding it as a lantern, they sought thereby the mighty King; and attaining the Unattainable, they rejoiced and cried to Him: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

Oikos Five
The praise of the wise men

The children of the Chaldeans saw the Virgin holding in her hands Him Who fashioned man with His hand, and acknowledging Him as the Master, even though He took the form of a servant, they hastened to worship Him with their gifts, and cried out to the blessed one:
1- Rejoice, Mother of the never setting star: Rejoice, daybreak of the mystical Day.
2-Rejoice, thou who hast quenched the furnace of deception. Rejoice, those who illuminest all who are initiated into the mystery of the Trinity.
3-Rejoice, thou who didst cast out the inhuman tyrant. Rejoice, thou who didst show forth Christ to be the Lord and lover of mankind.
4-Rejoice, deliverance from the worship of pagan idols. Rejoice, liberation from the mud of sin.
5-Rejoice, thou who makest the worship of fire to cease. Rejoice, thou who hast set us free from the flames of passion.
6-Rejoice, guide of the faithful to chastity. Rejoice, gladness of all generations.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Six
Return of the Wise Men to Babylon

The Wise Men became God-bearing preachers, returned to Babylon, fulfilling your command and preaching thee to all as the Christ, and leaving Herod to his foolish talking, for he did not know how to sing: Alleluia!

The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

Oikos Six
Out of Egypt I called my Son (Hos. 11:1)

Illuminating Egypt with the light of truth, thou didst cast out the darkness of falsehood; and unable to endure thy power, O Savior, their idols fell down, and those who had been delivered from them cried to the Theotokos:
1-Rejoice, uplifting of mankind. Rejoice, downfall of demons.
2-Rejoice, thou who hast trampled upon the error of deception. Rejoice thou who hast exposed the deceit of the idols.
3-Rejoice, sea that has drowned the immaterial Pharaoh. Rejoice, rock that has refreshed all who thirst for life.
4-Rejoice, pillar of fire, guiding those in darkness. Rejoice, protection of
the world, more spacious than the cloud.
5-Rejoice, food successor of manna. Rejoice, servant of holy joy.
6 - Rejoice, promised land. Rejoice, thou from whom flow milk and honey.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Seven
The presentation into the temple

As Simon was about to depart from this deceitful world, Thou wast presented to him as a new-born babe, but he recognized thee as the perfect God; and was amazed at thine inexpressible wisdom, and cried out: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

In the second week, we skip to the Kontakion on page 39.
In the fifth week, we continue with Canticle Four on page 14

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THIRD STASIS
The redemptive ministry of Christ
lkos Seven
Manifesting Himself to us, His creatures, the Creator revealed a new creation. From a Virgin’s womb He blossomed, preserving it intact as it was before: so that, at the sight of this miracle, we might sing her praises, crying:
1 - Rejoice, flower of incorruption. Rejoice, crown of abstinence.
2- Rejoice, bright foreshadowing the resurrection. Rejoice, reflector of the angels' life.
3- Rejoice, tree of marvelous fruit from which the faithful are nourished. Rejoice, tree of shady leaves where many are sheltered.
4- Rejoice, for thou hast born the Guide for the lost. Rejoice, for thou hast born a Deliverer for the captives.
5- Rejoice, intercessor with the Righteous Judge. Rejoice, pardon for many who have fallen.
6- Rejoice, robe for those stripped of boldness of speech, Rejoice, tenderness overcoming all desire.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Eight
Drawing the faithful to the heights

Seeing this strange childbirth, let us become strangers to the world, turning our minds to heaven. For this reason the most high God appeared on earth as a humble man, that He may draw to the heights those who cry aloud to Him: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

Oikos Eight
The Divine condescension

While fully present here below, the infinite Word was in no wise absent from those on high: for the condescension was divine, and not a mere change of place. He was born of a Virgin, chosen by God who heard such words as these:
1- Rejoice, space of the spaceless God. Rejoice, gate of the solemn mystery.
2- Rejoice, tidings doubted by unbelievers. Rejoice, undoubted pride of the faithful.
3- Rejoice, most holy chariot of Him who rides upon the cherubim. Rejoice, best of all dwellings for Him who rides upon the seraphim.
4- Rejoice, thou who bringst opposites to harmony. Rejoice, thou who joinest together childbirth and virginity.
5- Rejoice, thou through whom our transgression was annulled. Rejoice, thou through whom Paradise was opened.
6- Rejoice, key to the Kingdom of Christ. Rejoice, hope of eternal blessings.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Nine
Marvel of the Angles at the Incarnation

All the hosts of angels marveled at the great work of Thine Incarnation. For they saw the unapproachable God, as a man approachable by all, living with us, and hearing from all: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

Oikos Nine
Mute orators and eloquent faithful.

O Theotokos, we see eloquent orators as dumb as fish before thee, for they are at a loss to say how thou couldst give birth, while remaining a virgin. But we, marveling at the mystery, cry aloud with faith:
1- Rejoice, vessel of God's wisdom. Rejoice, treasury of His providence.
2- Rejoice, thou who showest forth the lovers of wisdom without wisdom. Rejoice, thou who provest logicians illogical.
3- Rejoice, for the cunning disputants are shown to be fools. Rejoice, for the myth‑makers have withered away.
4- Rejoice, thou who didst disperse the complications of the Athenian thought. Rejoice, thou who didst fill the fishermen's nets.
5- Rejoice, thou who didst draw us from the depth of ignorance. Rejoice, thou who didst illumine many with knowledge.
6- Rejoice, Raft of those who seek salvation. Rejoice, haven for the seafarers of life.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Ten
Incarnation of God and deification of man

Wishing to save the world, the Creator of all things came to it of His own will. As God He is our Shepherd, yet He appeared for our sake as a man like us; and so the like called upon the like, as God He hears our cry: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

In the third week, we skip to the Kontakion on page 39.
In the fifth week, we continue with Canticle Six on page 17.

FOURTH STASIS
Praising Mary and her Son
Oikos Ten
Rampart art thou for virgins and for all who recourse to thee, O Virgin Theotokos; for the Creator of heaven and earth prepared thee, O pure one, to dwell in thy womb, and teach all to cry out to thee:
1- Rejoice, pillar of virginity, Rejoice, gate of salvation.
2 -Rejoice, leader of the spiritual regeneration. Rejoice, provider of divine goodness.
3-Rejoice, for thou didst regenerate those conceived in sin. Rejoice, for thou didst give sense to those who lost sense.
4- Rejoice, thou who didst annul the corrupter of minds. Rejoice, thou who gavest birth to the Sower of purity.
5- Rejoice, bridal chamber of a virgin marriage. Rejoice, thou who didst join the faithful to the Lord.
6- Rejoice, fair nursing‑mother of virgins. Rejoice, leader of holy souls as brides to Christ.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.
Kontakion Eleven
Odes of praise to the holy King.

Every hymn falls short when it strives to dwell on the multitude of thy many mercies, O Holy King. For though we offer to thee songs of praise numberless as the sands, yet we do not do anything worthy of thy blessings to us who cry to thee: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.

Oikos Eleven
Mary as a beacon-light

We see the Holy Virgin as a beacon Light, enlightening those who live in darkness; for having kindled the immaterial light, she leads all to divine knowledge; and she illumines their minds with radiance, so that they honor her saying:
1- Rejoice, ray of the spiritual Sun. Rejoice, beam of the unfading moon.
2-Rejoice, lightning‑flash that shines within our souls. Rejoice, thunder that strikes down the enemies.
3- Rejoice, for thou didst cause the many-lighted Star to dawn. Rejoice, spring that makes the River with many streams to flow.
4- Rejoice, for thou dost prefigure the baptismal font. Rejoice, for thou dost wash away the stain of sin.
5- Rejoice, laver that cleanses the conscience. Rejoice, cup wherein the wine of joy is mixed.
6- Rejoice, sweetness of Christ's fragrance. Rejoice, life of mystical banquet.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Twelve
Renting asunder the record of our sins

Willing to grant mankind release from the ancient debts, the Redeemer came of His own will to those who had departed from His grace; He rent asunder the record of their sins, and from all of them He hears the cry: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.
Oikos Twelve
The sanctification of His dwelling place

While we hymn thine Offspring, we exalt thee, O Theotokos, as a living temple. For the Lord who holds all things in His hand made His dwelling in thy womb; He sanctified thee, glorified thee, and taught all to cry to thee:
1- Rejoice, tabernacle of God the Word. Rejoice, Holy one, holier than the holy of holies.
2- Rejoice, ark made golden by the Spirit. Rejoice, inexhaustible treasury of life.
3- Rejoice, precious crown of rightful authorities. Rejoice, venerable boast of godly priests.
4- Rejoice, unshaken tower of the Church. Rejoice, unconquered rampart of the Kingdom.
5- Rejoice, thou through whom the signs of victory are raised on high. Rejoice, thou through whom our enemies fall down.
6- Rejoice, healing of my body. Rejoice, Salvation of my soul.
Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom one time.

Kontakion Thirteen
Supplication
O Mother, worthy of all praise, who hast given birth to the Word, Holiest of all the saints (three times): accepting this our offering, deliver from every affliction and from the future torment all those who cry aloud to thee: Alleluia!
The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Alleluia one time.
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Then the first Oikos is read again in the Fifth week:
An archangel was sent from heaven, to say to the Theotokos: Rejoice (three times).
And as he saw thee, O Lord, taking bodily form he stood in awe and with his bodiless voice he cried aloud to her:
1- Rejoice, for through thee joy will shine forth. Rejoice, for through thee the curse will be destroyed.
2- Rejoice, restoration of fallen Adam. Rejoice, redemption of the tears of Eve.
3- Rejoice, height hard for the human thought to ascent. Rejoice, depth hard for the eyes of angels to explore.
4- Rejoice, for thou art the throne of the King. Rejoice, for thou holdest the upholder of all.
5-Rejoice, star making the Sun to appear. Rejoice, womb of the divine Incarnation.
6- Rejoice, for through thee the creation is renewed. Rejoice, for through thee the Creator becomes a babe.

Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!
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The priest censes the icon of the Theotokos nine times, while the people sing Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom three times.

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And then again the Kontakion:
KONTAKION, TONE EIGHT
To thee, the Champion leader, I thy city, delivered from tribulation, offer hymns of victory and thanksgiving, since thou hast power invincible, O Theotokos, set me free from all forms of danger, that I may cry unto thee: Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!


People: Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us. (Three Times)
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever, and unto ages of ages, Amen.
All-Holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us from our sins. Master, pardon our iniquities. Holy God, visit and heal our infirmities for thy Name’s sake.
Lord, have mercy, Lord, have mercy, Lord, have mercy.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever, and unto ages of ages, Amen.
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Priest: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: now and ever, and unto ages of ages.”
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People: Amen.
The following Kontakion of Theodore the Tyro is read at this point during the first Friday of the Great Lent:
KONTAKION OF THEODORE THE TYRO (8th Tone)
Having received the faith in Christ like a breastplate on thy heart thou didst trample upon the enemy's hosts, O long-suffering champion. Thou hast been crowned in eternity with a heavenly crown, since thou art invincible.

The following Kontakion is read at this point during the second, third and fourth Fridays of the Great Lent:
KONTAKION OF THE SAINTS IN THE EIGHTH TONE
To Thee, O Lord, creator of all the world, the universe offers to thee the God-bearing Martyrs as our nature's first‑fruits. Thus, preserve thy Church in perfect peace by the prayers of the pure Theotokos, O most merciful One.

In the Fifth week we sing the following Troparion:
TONE EIGHT
When the bodiless Archangel took knowledge of the secret command, went eagerly to Joseph's house, and said to her that did not know wedlock: Lo, He who bowed the heavens in his descent to earth is contained wholly and unchanged in thee. As I see him "taking the form of a slave" in thy womb I become amazed crying out unto thee: Rejoice, O Bride without bridegroom!

Reader: Lord, have mercy. (forty times)
Thou who art at all times and at every hour in heaven and earth worshiped and glorified, O Christ our God, most patient, most merciful, and most compassionate; thou lovest the just and the righteous, and hast mercy on sinners, thou callest all to repentance and salvation through the promise of the good things to come: receive, O Lord, our prayers at this hour, and guide our life to thy commandments. Sanctify our souls, purify our bodies, direct our thoughts, clarify our intentions, and deliver us from all distress, evil and sorrow. Surround us with thy holy angels, so that guided and guarded by their host, we may attain to the unity of the faith and the full knowledge of thine unapproachable glory. For blessed art thou unto ages of ages, Amen.
Lord, have mercy. (Three times)
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.
More honorable than the Cherubim and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim, thou who without corruption gavest birth to God the Word and art truly Theotokos, we magnify thee.
Bless, father, in the name of the Lord.
Priest: May God be gracious to us and bless us. And make his face to shine upon us, and have mercy on us.
Then the first Chanter says the following prayer before the icon of the Theotokos[2]
PRAYER OF PAUL THE CENOBITE
TO THE MOST HOLY MOTHER OF GOD
O pure Lady, bride of God, chaste virgin, spotless, blameless and undefiled, who, through thy wondrous birth‑giving, united God the Word with mankind, and joined our fallen nature with the heavenly things. Thou only art the hope of the hopeless, help of the oppressed, ready protection of those who flee to thee, and refuge of all Christians: despise me not who am a wretched sinner, who have defiled myself with shameful thoughts, words and deeds, and in my indolent thinking have become a slave to the passions of life. Since thou art the Mother of God, who is the Lover of mankind, have compassion in thy kindness on me a sinner and a prodigal son; accept this prayer from my impure lips, and, with thy maternal favor, implore thy Son, my Lord and my God, that He may reveal for me his loving kindness, forgive my countless sins, convert me to true repentance, and make me a faithful doer of his commands. And as thou art gracious, compassionate, and lover of goodness, be my constant companion: in this present life, be with me as an ardent helper and protector to turn away the assaults of my enemies and to guide me to salvation; at the hour of my death, surround my wretched soul and drive away the dreadful sight of the wicked devils; on the awesome day of judgment, deliver me from eternal punishment and make me an heir of thy Son's glory, O Holy Theotokos, my Lady, through the grace and the love for mankind of thy Son our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him and to His eternal Father and to His all‑holy, good and life‑giving Spirit are due all glory, honor and worship, now and ever and unto ages of ages,

People: Amen.


Then the second Chanter says the following prayer before the icon of our Lord Jesus Christ:
PRAYER OF THE MONK ANTIOCHTUS
TO OUR LORD, GOD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST
Now that we go to sleep, grant us, O Master, the repose of our soul and body. Preserve us against the dark slumber of sin and against any nightly sensual pleasure of the night; quiet the assaults of our passions, arrest the fiery darts that are insidiously thrown at us; still the commotions of our flesh and calm all earthly and worldly thought within us. Grant us, Lord, a watchful mind, chaste thought, a sober heart, a gentle sleep free from evil dreams; at the hour of prayer, raise us up, strong in the practice of thy commands and ever‑mindful of Thy judgments. Grant us to sing Thy glory throughout the night; to praise, bless and glorify Thine all‑honorable and majestic name, of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages,
People: Amen.
The first Chanter
O most glorious, ever‑virgin and blessed Theotokos, commend our prayers to thy Son, our God, and entreat Him to save through Thee our souls.
The second Chanter
The Father is my hope, the Son my refuge, the Holy Spirit my protection: O all‑holy Trinity, glory to Thee!
In thee I place all my hope, O Mother of God; keep me under thy protection.
In the first week of Great Lent the priest reads the attached Gospel reading (See Last Page.).

Priest: Glory to thee, our God, and our hope, glory to thee.
People: Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever, and unto ages of ages, Amen. Lord, have mercy, Lord, have mercy, Lord, have mercy, Father Bless.
Priest: O Christ our true God, through the intercessions of His all‑pure, all-blameless holy Mother, of our venerable and God‑bearing Fathers; of the holy and glorious ancestors of God, Joachim and Anna, and of all Thy saints: have mercy on us and save us, for Thou art merciful and lover of mankind.
The priest asks the congregation to forgive him, and to pray for him:
Priest: Bless me, fathers, and forgive me, brethren, for I am a sinner.
People: May God forgive you, O holy father!
Priest: Let us pray for the peace of the world.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: For all Orthodox and Pious Christians,
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: For our Father and Metropolitan (NAME), and for our Father and Bishop (NAME), and all our brethren in Christ.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: For those who are away from us, our parents and our brethren.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: For those who hate us and those who love us.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: For those who have asked us, unworthy as we are, to pray for them.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: For the release of captives.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: For the travelers by space, sea, air and land.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: For those afflicted with sickness.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: Let us pray also for abundance of the fruits of the earth.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: For all our parents and brethren departed from this life, for those who rest in this place and in every other place.
People: Lord, have mercy!
Priest: Let us pray also for ourselves.
People: Lord, have mercy! (Three times).

The people present approach to kiss the icon of the Mother of God, chanting in the Third Tone:
Awed by the beauty of thy virginity and the exceeding radiance of thy purity, Gabriel stood amazed and cried to thee, O Mother of God: "What praise may I offer thee, that is worthy of thy beauty? By what name shall I call thee? I am lost and bewildered. But I shall greet thee, as I was commanded: 'Rejoice! O full of grace."
Priest: Through the prayers of our holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us.
People: Amen.
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In the first week of the Great Lent the priest reads the Gospel reading.

THE GOSPEL

Priest: Wisdom, attend, let us hear the holy Gospel. Peace be to all.
People: And to thy spirit!
Priest: The reading from the holy Gospel according to St. John.
People: Glory to thee, O Lord, glory to thee.
Priest: Let us attend. The Lord said to His disciples: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine-grower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
People: Glory to thee, O Lord, glory to thee.

[1] As a type of Christ (Lev. 16:6).
[2] In some traditions the priest reads both prayers.