Great Vespers

Priest: Glory to the Holy, Consubstantial, Life-Creating and  Undivided Trinity always, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

Come, let us worship God our King!

Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ, our King and our God!

Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ Himself, our King and our God!

Psalm 103

Bless the Lord, O my soul.

 Lord my God, You are very great;

You are clothed with honor and majesty;

You cover Yourself with light as with garment.

You stretch out the heavens like a curtain

and lay the beams of Your chambers in the waters.

You make the clouds for Your ascent

and walk on the wings of the wind.

You make Your angels spirits,

Your ministers a blazing fire.

You laid the foundation of the earth

that it should never be moved.

You covered it with the deep as with a garment;

the waters stood above the mountains.

At Your rebuke they fled;

at the voice of Your thunder they hurried away.

They go up by the mountains, they go down by the valleys

to the place which You established for them.

You have set a boundary that they may not pass,

that they never again flood the earth.

He sends the springs into the valleys which run among the hills,

they sing among the rocks.

They give drink to every beast of the field;

the wild donkeys quench their thirst; by them live the birds of the air.

He waters the hills from His chambers;

the earth is satisfied by the fruit of His labor.

He causes the grass to grow for the cattle

and green plants to serve humanity;

That we may grow food from the earth,

wine that gladdens our hearts,

Oil to make our faces shine,

and bread which strengthens our bodies.

The trees of the plain are full of sap;

the cedars of Lebanon, which He planted;

Where the sparrows make their nests;

where the heron has made its abode.

The high mountains are a refuge for the deer

and the rocks for the hares.

He made the moon to mark the seasons:

the sun knows its time for setting.

You make darkness, and it is night,

in which all the beasts of the forest creep forth.

The young lions roar after their prey

and seek their food from God.

The sun arises; they gather themselves together

and lay down in their dens.

Humanity goes off to work

and to labor until the evening.

Lord, how magnified are Your works.

In wisdom, You have made them all: the earth is full of Your riches.

So is this great and wide sea,

in which there are creeping things without number, creatures, both small and great.

There go the ships; there is that dragon,

whom You made to play there.

All these wait for You;

that You may give them their food in due season. They gather what you give them;

When You open Your hand, they are filled with good,

when You turn away Your face, they are troubled.

You take away their breath, and they shall cease,

and to their dust, shall they return.

You send out Your spirit, and they shall be created;

and You shall renew the face of the earth.

May the glory of the Lord endure through the ages;

the Lord shall rejoice in His works.

He looks on the earth, and it trembles;

He touches the mountains, and they smoke.

I will sing to the Lord throughout my life;

I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.

My meditation of Him shall be sweet;

I will be glad in the Lord.

Let the sinners be consumed from the earth,

and let the wicked be no more. Bless the Lord, O my soul. Praise the Lord.

The sun knows its time for setting.

You make darkness, and it is night.

Lord, how magnified are Your works!

In wisdom, You have made them all.

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

now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia,

glory to You, O God. (Thrice)

The Great Litany (SIT)

Deacon: In peace, let us pray to the Lord.

People: Lord, have mercy. (Repeated after each of the following)

For the peace from above, and for the salvation of our souls, let us pray to the Lord.

For the peace of the whole world, for the stability of the holy churches of God, and for the union of all, let us pray to the Lord.

For this holy temple, and for those who enter it with faith, reverence, and the fear of God, let us pray to the Lord.

For our Metropolitan, his Eminence (Beatitude) (name); his Grace Bishop (name), for the reverend presbyters, for the deacons in Christ, and for all the clergy and people, let us pray to the Lord.

For our God-loving and God-protected country, the United States of America, for our civil authorities, for all in public service, and for all the people, let us pray to the Lord.

For this city, for every city and community, and for the faithful who live in them, let us pray to the Lord.

For healthful seasons, an abundance of the fruits of the earth, and for temperate weather, let us pray to the Lord.

For those who travel by land, sea, and air; the sick, the suffering, the captives, and for their salvation, let us pray to the Lord.

For our deliverance from all affliction, wrath, danger, and distress, let us pray to the Lord.

Help, save, have mercy, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.

Remembering our Most-Holy, Most-Pure, Most-Blessed and Glorious Lady, the Birthgiver-of-God and Ever-Virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us commend ourselves, one another, and our whole life, to Christ our God.

People: To You, O Lord.

Priest: For to You belongs all glory, honour and worship: to the  Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

First Kathisma (STAND)

Blessed is the one who does not go by the advice of the godless Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! (Psalm 1:1)

For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the godless will be destroyed! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! (Psalm 1:6)

Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice in Him with trembling. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! (Psalm 2:11)

Blessed are all who trust in Him! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! (Psalm 2:13)

Arise, Lord, save me, my God! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! (Psalm 3:8)

Salvation is the gift of the Lord, and Your blessing is upon Your people! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! (Psalm 3:9)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, glory to You, O God. (Thrice)

Psalm 140

Lord, I have cried out to You; hear me! Hear me, O Lord! Lord, I have cried out to You; hear me. Receive the voice of my prayer when I cry out to You! Hear me, O Lord!

Let my prayer arise in Your sight as incense and let the lifting up of my hands be as an evening sacrifice: Hear me, O Lord.

Consult the Propers Sheet

The Entrance

The main celebrant, who is the last in the procession, says the prayer of the entrance:

In the evening, in the morning and at noonday we praise, bless, give thanks to, and pray to You, Master of All, Lord Who Loves Humanity: Direct our prayer as incense before You, and incline not our hearts to words or thoughts of evil, but rather deliver us from all who seek our souls.

For to You, Lord, Lord are our eyes and in You have we hoped. Put us not to shame, our God. For to You is due all glory, honor and worship, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

(Gracious King, Lover-of-Humanity, One Who Blesses Everything, with contrite hearts and humble spirits we are moved to pray to You, Christ our True God: Bless our entrances and our exits. For Your coming, Your going, and Your dwelling among us is blessed always, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.) 

Lord, blessed is the entrance of Your saints always, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Deacon: Wisdom! Let us be attentive!

Joyous Light of the Holy Glory, of the Immortal Father, Heavenly, Holy, Blessed, Jesus Christ: Now that we have come to the setting of the sun and behold the light of evening, we praise, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, God. For it is fitting at all times to worship You with voices of praise, Son of God and Giver of Life: Therefore all the world glorifies You!

Deacon: Let us be attentive.

Priest: (+) Peace be with all of you.

Deacon: Wisdom! The Prokeimenon in the . . . (he chants the prescribed prokeimenon).

On SATURDAY Evening (Tone 6) Psalm 92:1,5

The Lord reigns. He has clothed Himself with honor.

V. The Lord has clothed and girded Himself with strength.

V. For He has established the world which shall not be moved.

V. Holiness becomes Your house, Lord, for length of days.

On SUNDAY Evening (Tone 8) Psalm 133:1

Behold, now bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord.

V. You stand in the house of the Lord.

On MONDAY EVENING (Tone 4) Psalm 4:4+1

The Lord will answer me when I cry out to Him.

V. When I call upon You, You answer me, God of my righteousness.

On TUESDAY EVENING (Tone 1) Psalm 22:6, 1+2

Lord, Your mercy will follow me all the days of my life.

V. The Lord is my shepherd and I will lack nothing. He settles me  in a place of green grass, beside restful water He nourishes me.

WEDNESDAY EVENING (Tone 5) Psalm 53:1+2

O God, save me by Your name and judge me by Your power.

V. O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth.

On THURSDAY EVENING (Tone 6) Psalm 120:2+1

My help comes from the Lord Who made heaven and earth. I lift up my eyes to the mountains. Where will my help come from?

V. I lift up my eyes to the mountains. From where will my help come?

On FRIDAY EVENING (Tone 7) Psalm 58:10b+11a, 1

O God, You are my protector, and Your mercy goes before me.

V. Rescue me from my enemies, O God, and deliver me from those who rise up against me.

***Special Prokeimena may be prescribed for certain major feasts. Consult the Propers Sheet***

The Augmented Litany (SIT)

Deacon: Let us say with all our soul and with all our mind, let us say.

People: Lord, have mercy.

Lord Almighty, God of our fathers: We pray You, hear us, and have mercy.

People: Lord, have mercy.

Have mercy on us, O God, in Your great loving-kindness: We pray You, hear us, and have mercy.

People: Lord, have mercy (Three times). (Repeated after each of the following)

Again, we pray for our Metropolitan, his Eminence (Beatitude) (name); his Eminence, Archbishop (name); his Grace Bishop (name), for our brother presbyters, hieromonks, and for all our brethren in Christ.

Again, we pray for our God-Loving and God-Protected country, the United States of America, for our civil authorities, for all in public service, and for all the people.

Again, we pray for the blessed and ever-memorable Orthodox Patriarchs, for the founders of this holy temple, and for all Orthodox Christians departed this life before us, who here and elsewhere lie asleep in the Lord.

Again, we pray for mercy for all the parishioners of this holy temple that they be delivered from all affliction, anger, need, spiritual and physical illness, and that they may live in peace, good health and well-being all the days of their life: Ever Merciful Lord hear us and have mercy.

Again we pray for those who bring offerings and do good works in this holy and venerable temple, for those who serve and those who sing, and for all the people here present who await Your great and abundant mercy.

Priest: For You are a Merciful and Loving God, and to You we give  glory, to the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

Hymn of Glorification (STAND)

Lord, make us worthy

and preserve us this evening without sin.

(+) Blessed and praised are You, Lord, the God of our fathers;

may Your Name be glorified forever. Amen.

Lord, let Your mercy be upon us

because we have placed our hope in You.

(+) Blessed are You, O Lord,

teach me Your Commandments.

(+) Blessed are You, Master,

grant me understanding of Your Statutes.

(+) Blessed are You, Holy One,

enlighten me by Your Precepts.

Lord, Your mercy endures to the ages,

despise not the work of Your Hands.

It is fitting to praise You,

and hymns are fitting for You.

It is fitting to glorify You:

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,

now and ever,

and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Litany Of Supplication (SIT)

Deacon: Let us complete our evening prayer to the Lord.

People: Lord, have mercy.

Deacon: Help, save, have mercy, and protect us, O God, by Your grace.

People: Lord, have mercy.

Deacon: That this evening may be perfect, holy, peaceful, and without sin, let us ask of the Lord.

People: Grant this, O Lord. (Repeated after each of the following)

An angel of peace, a faithful guide, a guardian of our souls and bodies, let us ask of the Lord.

Forgiveness and remission of our sins and transgressions, let us ask of the Lord.

All that is good and beneficial to our souls, and peace in the world, let us ask of the Lord.

That we may live out our lives in peace and repentance, let us ask of the Lord.

A Christian end to our life, peaceful, without suffering or shame, and a good defence before the fearsome judgment seat of Christ, let us ask of the Lord.

Remembering our Most-Holy, Most-Pure, Most-Blessed and Glorious Lady, the Birthgiver-of-God and Ever-Virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us commend ourselves, one another, and our whole life, to Christ our God.

People: To You, O Lord.

Priest: For You are a Good and a Loving God, and to You we give  glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

Priest: (+) Peace be with all of you.

People: And with your spirit.

Deacon: Let us bow our heads to the Lord.

People: To You, O Lord.

Priest: Lord our God, You bowed the heavens and came down for  the salvation of humanity: Behold Your servants and Your inheritance; for to You, the Awesome Judge Who continually loves humanity, have Your servants bowed their heads and submissively inclined their necks, awaiting not help from people, but entreating Your mercy and looking confidently for Your salvation. Guard them at all times, both during this present evening and in the approaching night, from every enemy, from all adverse powers of the devil, from vain thoughts, and from evil fantasies.

May the majesty of Your Kingdom be blessed and glorified: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

Lity Procession (Certain Feasts)

Lity Procession (STAND)

Go to the Propers Sheet on major feastdays

Deacon: O God, save Your People and bless Your inheritance. Look  upon Your world with mercy and compassion. Glorify the Power of Orthodox Christians and send Your abundant mercies: Through the prayers of our All-Pure Lady, the Birthgiver-of-God and Ever-Virgin Mary; through the Power of the Honorable and Life-Creating Cross; through the intercessions of the Honorable Bodiless Powers of Heaven; of the Honorable, Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptizer John; of the Holy, Glorious, and All-Praised Apostles; of our Fathers-Among-The Saints, the Great Ecumenical Teachers and Hierarchs: Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom; of our Fathers-Among-The-Saints Nicholas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycea and Innocent, Enlightener of the Aleuts and Apostle to the Americas; the Holy Equals-to-the-Apostles, Methodios and Cyril, Teachers of the Slavic people; the Holy Equals-to-the-Apostles, the Great Prince Volodymyr and the Blessed Great-Princess, Ol*ha; our Holy Fathers, the Metropolitans of Kiev: Michael, Hilarion, Makarios, Peter, and Alexis; of Theodosios of Chernihiv, Demetrios of Rostov, of Innocent of Irkuts, Josaphat of Vilhorod, and John of Tobolsk; of the Holy Glorious, and Victorious Martyrs: The Holy, Glorious Great-Martyr George the Victorious, the Holy Great-Martyr Barbara, the Holy True-Believing Prince-Martyrs and Passion-Bearers, Boris, Hlib, and Ihor; the Priest-Martyrs Juvenaly and the Holy Martyr Peter the Aleut; of the Holy Venerable Martyr Athanasios, Hegumen of Berest; Prince of Lutsk Nicholas; Makarios of Kaniv and Prince of Ostroz Theodore, Holy Princess of Olshan Juliana; the Holy Martyrs of Vilna Anthony, John, and Eustathios; Our Venerable Fathers Anthony and Theodosios and the Wonderworkers of the Caves Monastery; Venerable Job, Hegumen and Wonderworker of Pochaiv; Our Venerable Father Herman of Alaska, Wonderworker of All America; Venerable Benjamin of the Kyiv Caves; the Holy and Wonderworking Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian; the Holy and Righteous Forbears-of-God, Joachim and Anna; and of all the saints: We pray You, Greatly-Merciful Lord to hear us sinners and have mercy on us!

People: Lord, have mercy (12 times).

Deacon: Again, we pray for Metropolitan, his Eminence (Beatitude)  (name); his Eminence, Archbishop (name); his Grace Bishop (name), for the all-revered priests, the diaconate and all our brethren in Christ; for all afflicted and weary Christian souls in need of God's mercies and help; for the protection of this city and all who live in them; for peace and tranquility in the whole world; for the stability of the holy churches of God; for the salvation and assistance to our fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters who with diligence and fear of God labor and serve; for those who have gone away and those who are abroad; for the healing of those who lie in infirmity; for the repose, refreshment, blessed remembrance, and forgiveness of sins to all our fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers, the Orthodox who have gone to their rest who lie here and everywhere; for the deliverance of captives; for our brothers who are serving, and all who serve and have served in this holy temple, let us say:

People: Lord have mercy (12 times).

Deacon: Again, we pray for our God-loving and God-protected  country, for our civil authorities and all in public service, and for all the people.

People: Lord have mercy (12 Times).

Deacon: Again. we pray for the protection of this city (this holy monastery), and every city and community from wrath, famine, pestilence, earthquake, flood, fire, armaments, foreign invasion, civil war, and from sudden death. May our Merciful God Who Loves Humanity be gracious, favorable, conciliatory, and turn away and dispel all wrath stirred up against us, all sickness, and may He deliver us from His righteous chastisement which is impending against us, and have mercy on us.

People: Lord have mercy (Three Times).

Deacon: Again, we pray that the Lord God will hear the voice of our  sinners' prayer and have mercy on us!

People: Lord have mercy (Three Times).

Priest: Hear us, O God our Savior, Hope of all to the ends of the  earth and those far off on the sea or air. Be gracious, be gracious, Master, to us sinners and have mercy on us.

For You are a merciful God Who loves humanity, and we  glorify You: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

Priest: (+) Peace be with all of you.

People: And with your spirit.

Deacon: Let us bow our heads to the Lord.

People: To You, O Lord.

Priest: Greatly Merciful Master, Lord Jesus Christ our God through  the prayers of all the saints: Make our prayer acceptable, grant us forgiveness of our sins, shield us under the shelter of Your Wings, drive every enemy and adversary far from us, and give peace to our lives. Lord, have mercy on us and on Your world, and save our souls, for You are Good and You love humanity.

People: Amen.

Apostikha

Canticle of St. Simeon (Luke 2:29-32)

Now You shall dismiss Your servant, Master, according to Your Word in peace, because my eyes have seen Your Salvation which You have prepared * before the face of all people. A Light of revelation to the Gentiles, and the Glory of Your People Israel!

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 to the ages of ages. Amen.

All-Holy Trinity, have mercy on us! Lord, cleanse us from our sins! Master, pardon our transgressions! Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for Your 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 to the 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 Yours is the Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory, Father,  Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

Troparia

Festal Blessing (Major Feasts)

Festal Blessing On Major Feasts

Deacon: Let us pray to the Lord.

People: Lord, have mercy.

Priest: Lord Jesus Christ our God, You  blessed the five loaves in the wilderness and satisfied the five thousand with it: Now, as then, Master, bless these loaves of bread, this wheat, wine, and oil, and multiply them in this city, and in all the world, and sanctify the faithful who shall partake of them. For You bless and sanctify all things, Christ our God, and we glorify You, together with Your Beginningless Father, and Your All-Holy, Good, and Life-Creating Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

Priest: Blessed is the Name of the Lord, now and to the ages!

People: Blessed is the Name of the Lord, now and to the ages! (Twice) (Psalm 112:2)

Psalm 33

I will bless the Lord at all times,

His praise shall be continually in my mouth.

My soul will be praised by the Lord;

let the meek hear and be glad.

Magnify the Lord with me

and let us exalt His name together.

I sought the Lord and He answered me,

and He delivered me out of all my troubles.

Come to Him and be radiant,

and your faces will not be ashamed.

This poor man called and the Lord heard him

and saved him out of all his troubles.

The angel of the Lord will camp around those who fear Him

and will deliver them.

Taste and see that the Lord is good!

Blessed is the one who hopes in Him.

Fear the Lord, all you His saints,

because those who fear Him lack nothing.

The rich become poor and hungry,

but those who seek the Lord will not be in want of anything good.

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

now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Lord have mercy, Lord have mercy, Lord have mercy: Father, bless!

Priest: May the blessing of the Lord, come upon you through His  grace and love for humanity, always, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen.

The Great Dismissal

Deacon: Wisdom!

People: Father, bless!

Priest: Blessed is Christ our God, the One-Who-Is, always, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

People: Amen. Preserve, O God, the Holy Orthodox Faith and Orthodox Christians, to the ages of ages!

Priest: Most-Holy Birthgiver-of-God, save us!

People: More honorable than the Cherubim, and more glorious  beyond compare than the Seraphim, without defilement you gave birth to God the Word. True Birthgiver-of-God, we magnify you.

{During the Pascha Season} Shine! Shine! O New Jerusalem! The  Glory of the Lord has shone on you! Exult now and be glad, O Zion! Be radiant, Pure Birthgiver-of-God in the Resurrection of  your Son!

Priest: Glory to You, Christ our God, our Hope, glory to You!

People Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,  now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen. Lord have mercy, Lord have mercy, Lord have mercy: Father, bless.

{During the Pascha Season} Christ is risen from the dead, trampling  down Death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing Life! Lord have mercy, Lord have mercy, Lord have mercy: Father, bless!

Priest: May Christ our true God Who rose from the dead, through  the intercessions of His Most Pure and Holy Mother; of (name of the Saint of the temple), and (the Saint of the day), and of all the saints, have mercy on us and save us, for He is Good and the Lover of Humanity.

People: Amen. 

Return to the Online Prayer Book

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The Oktoikh (Eight Resurrectional Tones)

Resurrectional Tone 1

At Psalm 140:

Lead my soul forth from prison that I may give thanks to Your  Name . . .

Lord, receive our evening prayer, and grant us forgiveness of sins, for only You revealed the Resurrection to the world.

The just shall gather around me when You have been good to me ...

Walk around Zion, faithful people, and encircle her. And give glory there to the One Who is risen from the dead. For He is our God Who redeems us from our sins.

Lord, out of the depths I cry to You; Lord, hear my voice . . .

Come, faithful people, praise and worship Christ. Glorify His Resurrection from the dead. For He is our God Who redeemed the world * from the deceit of the Enemy.

Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my prayer . . .

Rejoice, you heavens! Sound the trumpets foundations of the earth! Mountains, cry out with joy! For, behold, Emmanuel has nailed our sins to the Cross. The Giver-of-Life has put Death to death, and the Lover-of-Humanity has raised up Adam.

If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with You  forgiveness is that You may be revered . . .

Let us praise the Lord Who for our sake was willingly crucified in the flesh. He suffered, was buried, and arose from the dead. Therefore, let us chant to Him: Christ, maintain Your True-Worshiping Church and bring peace to our lives, since You are Good and You love humanity.

I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently  relies on Your promise for it has trusted in the Lord . . .

O Christ, as we stand unworthily before Your Life-Bearing Tomb, we offer a hymn of praise to Your ineffable benevolence. For You, Sinless One, have accepted the Cross and death in order to grant Resurrection to the world, for You love humanity.

From the morning watch until night, let Israel trust in the   Lord . . .

Let us praise the Beginningless Word Who is coeternal with the Father. For our sake He was born of the Virgin. He freely accepted the Cross and death, rising in Glory. Therefore, let us chant to Him: Glory to You, Lord, Giver-of-Life, and Savior of our souls.

Go to the Propers Sheet.

(Tone 1 Dogmatikon) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy  Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Let us praise the Virgin Mary who, although born of our humanity, gave birth to the Lord of All. The Bodiless Ones chant her praises for she is the Glory of the Whole Earth, the Gateway to Heaven, and the Adornment of the Faithful. She reveals heaven as the Temple of God. She broke down the wall of hostility separating humanity and God (Ephesians 2:14). Instead, she brought us peace and opened the Gates of the Kingdom. Therefore, let us embrace her as our Anchor of Faith. And our Lord Who was born of her will be our Protector. People of God, take courage then for the Almighty Himself will defeat Your enemies.

Return to Page 6 for The Entrance.

Apostikha: Resurrectional Tone 1

By Your Passion we were set free from our passions, O Christ, and we were delivered from corruption by Your Resurrection. O Lord, glory to You!

The Lord reigns. He has clothed Himself with honor . . . {Psalm 92}

Let creation exult, the heavens be glad, and the nations clap their hands with joy. For Christ our Savior has nailed our sins to the Cross. He has put Death to death, and given us Life by raising Adam, the Father-of-All-Generations, for He loves humanity.

For He has established the world which shall not be moved . . .

You are the One Who is King of Heaven and Earth. You are beyond all understanding, and in Your love for humanity You have been crucified of Your own Will. The abyss was filled with bitterness when it confronted You (Is.14:9), and the souls of the righteous rejoiced greatly when they received You. And when Adam saw You, the Creator, in the depths, he rose up: What a marvel this is! The Life-of-All tastes death in His desire to enlighten the world which cries and calls out: Lord, risen from the dead, glory to You!

Holiness becomes Your house, Lord, for length of days . . .

The Ointment-Bearing Women carrying spices hastened mournfully to Your tomb, and when they found Your Most-Pure Body missing and learned from the angel the unprecedented and most-glorious wonder, they said to the Apostles: The Lord is risen, granting the world great mercy.

(Tone 1 Great Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Behold, the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled: The Virgin has given birth (Is. 7:14), and she has remained as she was before. For it was God Who was born, and human nature is restored. Mother of God, despise not the prayers of your servants offered to you in your temple. Rather, because you have held in your arms the Compassionate One, be merciful to us who serve you, and pray that our souls may be saved.

Return to Page 13 for The Canticle of St. Simeon.

Troparia: Resurrectional Tone 1

When the stone had been sealed by the Jews, while the soldiers were guarding Your Most-Pure Body. You arose on the third day, O Savior, granting Life to the world. Therefore, the Powers of Heaven cried to You, O Giver-of-Life: Glory to Your Resurrection, O Christ! Glory to Your Kingdom! Glory to Your Providence, Only Lover-of-Humanity.

(Tone 1 Festal Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Virgin, when Gabriel cried out to you: Hail! The Master of All became incarnate in your holy tabernacle with that cry as the Righteous David had foretold [Luke 1:28-38]. In bearing your Creator, you have revealed yourself as more spacious than the heavens. Therefore, we cry out to you: Glory to the One Who dwelt in you! Glory to the One Who came forth from you! Glory to the One Who set us free * through your birth giving!

Return to Page 15 for The Great Dismissal.

Resurrectional Tone 2

At Psalm 140:

Lead my soul forth from prison that I may give thanks to Your  Name . . .

Come, let us adore the Word of God, begotten of the Father before all ages, and incarnate of the Virgin Mary. For of His own Will He suffered the Cross and submitted to burial. He also rose from the dead saving me, one who is lost.

The just shall gather around me when You have been good to me ...

Christ our Savior canceled the bond written against us in the decrees of the Law by nailing it to the Cross (Col. 2:14), and He put down the might of Death. We venerate His Third-Day Resurrection.

Lord, out of the depths I cry to You; Lord, hear my voice . . .

Together with the archangels let us praise the Resurrection of Christ. He is the Redeemer and Savior of our souls. And He will come again in fearsome Glory and mighty Power to sit in judgement on the world He created.

Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my prayer . . .

Master, the angel proclaimed You crucified and entombed, and he said to the women: Come and behold the place where the Lord reposed. He is risen as He said for He is All-Powerful. Therefore, we worship You, the Immortal One: Have mercy on us, Life-Giving Christ!

If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with You  forgiveness is that You may be revered . . .

You have abolished the curse of the Tree by Your Cross (Gal.3:13), the might of Death by Your burial, and by Your rising You have enlightened the human race. Therefore, we cry out to You: Christ our God and Benefactor, glory to You!

I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently  relies on Your promise for it has trusted in the Lord . . .

Lord, the gates of Death opened fearfully before You and the gatekeepers of the abyss were filled with dread on seeing You. You were the One Who destroyed the gates of brass and burst the iron chains asunder (Job 38:7). You have also led us out of the valley of the shadow of death and have torn our shackles apart (Psalm 106:6).

From the morning watch until night, let Israel trust in the Lord . . .

Let us all open our mouths to chant the praises of Your salvation. Come, fall down in the House of the Lord and say: Cleanse our sins, for You were crucified on the Wood, arose from the dead, and remain in the bosom of the Father.

Go to the Propers Sheet.

(Tone 2 Dogmatikon) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy  Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

At the coming of grace, the shadow that is the Law passed away (Romans 7:6). Virgin like the bush which burned and was not consumed (Exodus 3:2), so you have given birth and remained a virgin. Gone was the Pillar of Fire, and behold, in its place the Sun of Righteousness shone forth. Instead of Moses, Christ, the salvation of our souls.

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Apostikha: Resurrectional Tone 2

Your Resurrection, Christ Savior, has given light to all the universe, and has called back all Your creation. All-Powerful Lord, glory to You!

The Lord reigns. He has clothed Himself with honor . . . {Psalm 92}

Savior, through Your Wood You have eliminated the curse of the Tree, through Your burial You have killed the might of Death, and by Your Resurrection You have enlightened humanity. Therefore, we cry out to You: Christ our God, Giver-of-Life, glory to You!

For He has established the world which shall not be moved . . .

Christ, You appeared nailed on the Cross having restored the beauty of creation. And in their inhumanity the soldiers pierced Your Side with a lance, while the Hebrew leaders asked that Your tomb be sealed, for they both did not believe in Your Power. But, You, Lord, in Your tenderheartedness submitted to the tomb and arose on the third day: Glory to You!

Holiness becomes Your house, Lord, for length of days . . .

Christ, Giver-of-Life, of Your Own Will and for the sake of mortals You have suffered Your Passion and have descended into the abyss. Mightily, You snatched away those who awaited You there as from the jaws of a mighty monster, granting those in the abyss Life in Paradise. Therefore, grant cleansing of our sins and great mercy to us who glorify Your Third-Day Rising.

(Tone 2 Great Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Behold a new wonder greater than all the miracles of old! For who has ever known a mother to bear a child without a man, and hold in her arms the One Who upholds all creation? It was the Will of God to be born and you, Most-Pure, have carried Him as an infant in your arms. Therefore, you possess the full confidence of a mother towards Him. Pray, then, to Him unceasingly for us who honor you. Ask Him to save our souls and have mercy on us!

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Troparia: Resurrectional Tone 2

When You descended to death, Life Immortal, You slayed the abyss with the splendor of Your Divinity! And when from the depths You raised the dead, all the Powers of Heaven cried out: Giver-of-Life, Christ our God, glory to You!

(Tone 2 Festal Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Birthgiver-of-God, your mystery is most glorious and surpasses all human understanding: For stamped with the seal of purity and with your virginity intact, you are unquestionably known to be the Mother who truly gave birth to God. Therefore, pray for the salvation of our souls.

Return to Page 15 for The Great Dismissal.

Resurrectional Tone 3

At Psalm 140:

Lead my soul forth from prison that I may give thanks to Your  Name . . .

By means of Your Cross, Christ our Savior, the power of Death has been vanquished * and the deceit of the devil has been destroyed. Therefore, humanity, saved by faith offers You hymns of praise always.

The just shall gather around me when You have been good to me ...

Lord, all creation has been enlightened by Your Resurrection, and Paradise has been reopened. Therefore, all creation praises You * and always offers You hymns of praise.

Lord, out of the depths I cry to You; Lord, hear my voice . . .

I glorify the Power of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. And I praise the Might of the Undivided Divinity, the Consubstantial Trinity, reigning to the ages of ages.

Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my prayer . . .

Christ, we venerate Your Honorable Cross, and with hymns of praise we glorify Your Resurrection: For by Your Wounds we have all been healed (1 Peter 2:24).

If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with You  forgiveness is that You may be revered . . .

Let us chant the praises of the Savior * Who was incarnate of the Virgin. He was crucified for our sake, and on the third day He arose from the dead, granting us His great mercy.

I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently  relies on Your promise for it has trusted in the Lord . . .

Christ descended into the abyss and announced to those confined there: Take courage, for today I have trampled Death. I AM the Resurrection, the One Who will set you free. I have shattered the gates of Death!

From the morning watch until night, let Israel trust in the Lord . . .

Christ our God we stand unworthily in Your most pure house directing our evening hymn to You. We call on You from the depths to deliver Your people from the hands of their adversaries. In Your infinite love for humanity You have enlightened the world by Your Third-Day Resurrection.

Go to the Propers Sheet.

(Tone 3 Dogmatikon) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy  Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

All-Undefiled, how can we refrain from wonder, Most-Honorable, at your bearing God and Man in One? For you have never known a man have, yet have brought forth without a father a Son in the flesh begotten of the Father without a mother before all ages. He suffered no change, confusion, nor division, but kept fully what is proper to each nature. Therefore, Lady Virgin Mother, pray that He save the souls of the Orthodox true believers who profess you to be the Birthgiver-of-God.

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Apostikha: Resurrectional Tone 3

Christ, You have darkened the sun by means of Your Passion. By means of Your Resurrection You have given Light to all things. Lover of Humanity receive our evening hymn!

The Lord reigns. He has clothed Himself with honor . . . {Psalm 92}

Lord, Your Life-Giving Resurrection has brought Light to everything, and has renewed Your creation which lay in corruption. Therefore, we, released from the curse of Adam, cry out: All-Powerful Lord, glory to You!

For He has established the world which shall not be moved . . .

You, O God, are by nature unchangeable, and have allowed Yourself to change by suffering in the flesh. And being unable to bear the sight of You hanging on the Cross, creation fell down in fear groaning as it chanted the praises of Your Longsuffering. And descending into the Abyss You have risen on the third day, giving the world Life and great mercy.

Holiness becomes Your house, Lord, for length of days . . .

Christ, You have suffered death to deliver our race from Death. And having risen on the third day from the dead, You have raised with Yourself those who acknowledge You to be God, and You have enlightened the world. Lord, glory to You!

(Tone 3 Great Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

The All-Undefiled Bride, the Mother of the One in Whom the Father was well-pleased, she who was predestined by God to be the dwelling-place of His unconfused union, delivers her most-pure soul today to her Creator and God. The Bodiless Powers receive her with honors befitting God, and she who is the Mother-of-Life departs to Life: The Lamp of the Light which No One Can Approach, the Salvation of the Faithful, and Hope of our souls.

Return to Page 13 for The Canticle of St. Simeon.

Troparia: Resurrectional Tone 3

Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad! For the Lord has shone strength with His Arm! He has trampled Death by death! He has become the First-Born of the Dead (Colossians 1:18 & Revelations 1:5)! He has delivered us from the depths of the abyss, and has granted the world great mercy!

(Tone 3 Festal Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

 Virgin Birthgiver-of-God, who intercedes for the salvation of our race, we chant your praises. For your Son and our God, by taking flesh from you and accepting suffering on the Cross, has delivered us from corruption for He loves humanity.

Return to Page 15 for The Great Dismissal.

Resurrectional Tone 4

At Psalm 140:

Lead my soul forth from prison that I may give thanks to Your  Name . . .

Christ our God we never cease venerating Your Life-Creating Cross, and we glorify Your Third-Day Resurrection. For, Almighty One, You have thereby restored the corrupted nature of all and re-opened the path to heaven. For You alone are Good and You love humanity.

The just shall gather around me when You have been good to me ...

Savior, You have absolved the penalty of disobedience committed through the Tree in Eden by willingly being nailed to the Tree of the Cross. You descended into the abyss and smashed the bonds of Death as Almighty God. Therefore, we worship Your Resurrection from the dead, and joyfully cry out to You: Almighty Lord, glory to You!

Lord, out of the depths I cry to You; Lord, hear my voice . . .

Lord, You have shattered the gates of the abyss, and by Your death have put an end to the dominion of Death. You have set humanity free from corruption by bestowing Life, Incorruption, and Your Great Mercy on the world.

Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my prayer . . .

Come all you people, let us chant the praises of the Savior's Third-Day Resurrection. For we have been delivered from the unbreakable bonds of the abyss by it, and have received Life and incorruption. Your Crucifixion, Burial, and Resurrection cause us to cry out: Save us by Your Resurrection, Only Lover of Humanity!

If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with You  forgiveness is that You may be revered . . .

Savior, with the angels we chant the praises of Your Third-Day Resurrection. For by it the utmost ends of the universe have been enlightened, and we have all been delivered from bondage to the Enemy. We cry out to You Almighty Savior, Life-Giver, and Lover-of-Humanity: Save us by Your Resurrection!

I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently  relies on Your promise for it has trusted in the Lord . . .

Christ God You have shattered the brass gates of the abyss and have broken apart the chains of Death, raising fallen humanity. Therefore, with one voice we cry out: Lord, risen from the dead, glory to You!

From the morning watch until night, let Israel trust in the Lord . . .

Lord, You were begotten of the Father agelessly and eternally. Your incarnation by the Virgin is beyond description and human understanding. Your descent into the abyss terrified the devil and his fallen angels. For Your Third-Day Resurrection has trampled Death granting incorruption and great mercy.

Go to the Propers Sheet.

(Tone 4 Dogmatikon) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy  Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

David the Prophet and Forefather-of-God foretold in song what great things would befall you: At Your Right Hand stands the Queen (Ps.4410b). For it was pleasing to God to be incarnate of you without a human father, revealing you to be the Mother-of-Life and Intercessor, that He might restore His Image corrupted by passions. And when He had found the stray sheep trapped in the hills, He would lift it to His shoulder and bring it to His Father (Luke 15:4-6), whose own wish is that Christ, in Whom is great and abundant mercy, might place it in the midst of the heavenly hosts, and save the world, Birthgiver-of-God.

Return to Page 6 for The Entrance.

Apostikha: Resurrectional Tone 4

Lord, ascending the Cross You have abolished the ancestral curse for us. Descending into the abyss, You set free those who had been bound from all eternity, bestowing incorruption and Life on humanity. Therefore, we praise and glorify Your Saving and Life-Creating Resurrection.

The Lord reigns. He has clothed Himself with honor . . . {Psalm 92}

Hung upon the wood You have shaken all creation for You alone are Almighty. While laying in a tomb You raised those who had been lying there, bestowing Life and incorruption on humanity. Therefore, we praise and glorify Your Third-Day Resurrection.

For He has established the world which shall not be moved . . .

Christ, the lawless people gave You to Pilate who condemned You to Crucifixion, thereby showing their ingratitude to the Benefactor. But You were well-pleased to suffer burial, and of Your own Will have risen as God on the third day, granting us endless Life and great mercy.

Holiness becomes Your house, Lord, for length of days . . .

Seeking You, the women came tearfully to Your tomb. And when they did not find You, they lamented and cried: Our Savior and Lord-of-All, how did You come to be stolen? And what place can conceal Your Life-Bearing Body? Then an angel stood before them and replied: Weep not, but rather proclaim that the Lord is risen granting us joy, for He alone is full of goodness!

(Tone 4 Great Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Behold the prayers of your servants, All-Immaculate One. You crush the savage assaults which trouble us and calm all our distress. You are the one steadfast support that we recognize: O Lady, let us not be put to shame for we have found an intercessor upon whom we can call. Speedily attend to the prayers of those who cry to you in faith: Hail, Lady, Help, Joy, Protection, and Salvation of our souls!

Return to Page 13 for The Canticle of St. Simeon.

Troparia: Resurrectional Tone 4

When the women disciples of the Lord learned from the angel the joyous news of the Resurrection, they cast away the ancestral curse and with gladness told the Apostles: Death is overthrown! Christ God is risen, granting the world great mercy!

(Tone 4 Festal Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

The mystery hidden from all ages * and unknown to the angels * was made manifest to those on earth through You Birthgiver-of-God. God took flesh in a union without confusion * and for our sakes willingly accepted the Cross. Thereby He raised the First-Created, saving our souls from Death.

Return to Page 15 for The Great Dismissal.

Resurrectional Tone 5

At Psalm 140:

Lead my soul forth from prison that I may give thanks to Your  Name . . .

Christ, by means of Your Precious Cross, You have put the devil to shame. By means of Your Resurrection, You have deadened the sting of sin, and have saved us from the gates of Death. Therefore, we glorify You, Only-Begotten Son of God.

The just shall gather around me when You have been good to me ...

Christ, You have granted Resurrection to humanity and were led like a Lamb to the slaughter. Then the princes of the abyss were struck with terror when they saw the gates of their tearful domain being lifted up. For Christ, the King-of-Glory, entered therein and exclaimed to those imprisoned there: Go forth from here! And to those in darkness: Go forth into the Light!

Lord, out of the depths I cry to You; Lord, hear my voice . . .

What a great wonder! The Creator of invisible beings suffered in the flesh for humanity, and arose from the dead as immortal. Come, therefore, all you nations and adore Him. For through His compassion we have been freed from the snares of the devil, and have learned to praise One God in Three Persons.

Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my prayer . . .

We offer You our evening worship, Light Whom the Darkness Of, Night Can Never Extinguish. For in these latter days Your radiance has appeared to the world, shining in Your flesh as Light reflected from a mirror. Your brilliance has descended even to the depths of the abyss and dissolved its gloom. Lord, Giver-of-Life, glory to You! For You have shone the radiance of Your Resurrection to all nations.

If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with You  forgiveness is that You may be revered . . .

Let us glorify Christ the Author of our Salvation. For by His Resurrection from the dead, the world has been delivered from the deception of demons. The angelic choirs rejoice for the treachery of evil spirits vanishes. Fallen Adam arises and the devil is vanquished.

I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently  relies on Your promise for it has trusted in the Lord . . .

Those who guarded the tomb of Christ were told by the evil men who hired them: Take this silver and remain silent. Tell no one about the Resurrection of Christ. Rather, tell everyone that while you were sleeping His Body was stolen. But who has ever heard of a body being stolen, a body which had already been anointed? Why would anyone take a body from the tomb naked and leave the burial shroud in the grave? Do not deceive yourselves, people of Judea. Study the teachings of the Prophets and you will come to understand that Jesus Christ is Almighty God, and truly the Savior of the world.

From the morning watch until night, let Israel trust in the Lord . . .

Lord our Savior, You subjected the abyss, trampled Death, and enlightened the world: Through Your Honorable Cross, have mercy on us.

Go to the Propers Sheet.

(Tone 5 Dogmatikon) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

In ancient times the image of the Unwedded Bride was inscribed in the Red Sea (Exodus 14): There Moses parted the waters; here Gabriel was the servant of the miracle. Then, Israel rode dryly through the depths of the sea; while, now, the Virgin has given birth to Christ without seed. After Israel passed through, the sea remained impassible. After the birth of Emmanuel, the Undefiled Virgin remains forever incorrupt. O God, You are present now, have always been, and have appeared in time as a man: Have mercy on us!

Return to Page 6 for The Entrance.

Apostikha: Resurrectional Tone 5

Christ Savior, Incarnate while never leaving heaven, we lift up our voices in song to magnify You. For You, the Lord Who Loves Humanity, have suffered the Cross and Death for the human race. And casting down the gates of the abyss, Your Third-Day Resurrection has thereby saved our souls.

The Lord reigns. He has clothed Himself with honor . . . {Psalm 92}

Giver-of-Life, streams of Forgiveness, Life, and Salvation poured forth from Your pierced side upon us all (John 19:34). By accepting physical death, You granted us immortality. By lying in the tomb, You freed us from the abyss. And as God, by rising from the dead, You raised us with Yourself in glory. Therefore, we cry out to You: Lover-of-Humanity, glory to You!

For He has established the world which shall not be moved . . .

Lover-of-Humanity, Your crucifixion and descent into the abyss are extraordinary: For as God You imprisoned it and in glory raised with Yourself those who were captive there since ancient times. You reopened Paradise enabling them to enter. Grant forgiveness of sins to us who glorify Your Third-Day Resurrection, for You alone are Merciful.

Holiness becomes Your house, Lord, for length of days . . .

Lover-of-Humanity, You accepted suffering in the flesh and rose from the dead on the third day. Therefore, heal the passions of our flesh, raise us from our evil sins, and save us!

(Tone 5 Great Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

All-Pure Virgin, you are the Temple, the Gate, the Palace, and Throne of the King. Christ the Lord Who is my Redeemer appeared through you to those asleep in darkness. For He, the Sun of Righteousness, wished to give Light to those whom He fashioned with His Own Hands in His Own Image. Therefore, All-Praised One, because you possess motherly boldness toward your Son, we pray that you to beg Him to save our souls.

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Troparia: Resurrectional Tone 5

Let us, the faithful, praise and worship the Word * without beginning like the Father and the Spirit, born for our salvation of the Virgin. For He willed to be lifted up on the Cross in the flesh, to endure death, and to raise the dead by His glorious Resurrection!

(Festal Theotokion, Tone 5) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Hail, Impassible Gateway of the Lord! Hail, Wall and Protection for Those Who Take Refuge in You! Hail, Haven Untroubled by Storms! Hail, for you have not known wedlock, yet have given birth in the flesh to Your Creator and God! Fail not in your prayers on behalf of those * who worship and chant the praises of your birth giving.

Return to Page 15 for The Great Dismissal.

Resurrectional Tone 6

At Psalm 140:

Lead my soul forth from prison that I may give thanks to Your  Name . . .

Christ, You won victory over the abyss, and ascended the Cross in order to raise with Yourself all those who dwelt in the darkness of Death. Almighty Savior, You are free from Death, and bestow Life by Your Divine Light. Therefore, we ask You to have mercy on us.

The just shall gather around me when You have been good to me ...

Today Christ has trampled Death. He has risen from the tomb as He had foretold, bestowing great joy upon the earth. Therefore, let us all lift up our voices in song: Source of Life, Unapproachable Light, and Almighty Savior, have mercy on us!

Lord, out of the depths I cry to You; Lord, hear my voice . . .

Lord, where can we sinners flee from You since You are present in all creation? You dwell in heaven! You trampled Death in the abyss! In the depths of the sea? Master, Your Hand is even there present! To You we flee, and falling before You we pray: Lord, risen from the dead, have mercy on us!

Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my prayer . . .

Christ, we praise Your Cross. We chant to glorify Your Resurrection. Our God You are and aside from You we have no other.

If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with You  forgiveness is that You may be revered . . .

Lord, glory to Your Might for You have trampled the power of Death. You have renewed us through Your Cross, granting us Life and Incorruption.

I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently  relies on Your promise for it has trusted in the Lord . . .

We always bless the Lord and chant the praise of His Resurrection, for by His Passion on the Cross, He trampled Death by death.

From the morning watch until night, let Israel trust in the Lord . . .

Lord, by Your death and burial You crushed the bonds of the abyss. By Your Resurrection from the dead, You enlightened all the earth. Therefore, we exclaim: Lord, glory to You!

Go to the Propers Sheet.

(Tone 6 Dogmatikon) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy  Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Who would not bless you, Most-Holy Virgin? Who would not chant the praises of your Most-Pure Birth-Giving? Pure One, the Only-Begotten Son Who proceeds eternally from the Father was incarnate in an unexplainable manner. He Who is God by nature took on a human nature for our sake. Yet He was not divided into two entities. Rather, He became known in two distinct Natures in one Person. Therefore, Pure and Most-Blessed, pray for mercy on our souls.

Return to Page 6 for The Entrance.

Apostikha: Resurrectional Tone 6

Of Your Resurrection, Christ our Savior * the angels in heaven sing. Enable us on earth to glorify You in purity of heart.

The Lord reigns. He has clothed Himself with honor . . . {Psalm 92}

Almighty God You destroyed the brazen gates and bars of the abyss, raising fallen humanity with Yourself. Therefore, with one voice we cry out: Lord, risen from the dead, glory to You!

For He has established the world which shall not be moved . . .

Wishing to renew us from our ancient corruption * Christ was nailed to the Cross and buried in a tomb. When the Ointment-Bearing Women came they cried and said: Woe to us! Savior of All, how can You choose to dwell in a tomb? And after lying there, how did You allow Yourself to be stolen? How were You removed and what place now conceals Your Life-Bearing Body? But, appear to us, Master, as You promised putting an end to our weeping. Then an angel appeared crying out to them: Weep not, rather tell the Apostles that the Lord is risen * granting sanctification and great mercy to the world!

Holiness becomes Your house, Lord, for length of days . . .

Christ, when Crucified of Your Own Will, You imprisoned Death by Your Burial. You rose in Glory as God on the Third Day, granting life and great mercy to the world.

(Tone 6 Great Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Most-Pure Virgin, Christ my Lord, Creator, and Redeemer came forth from your womb. He clothed Himself in human flesh to free us from the original curse of Adam. Therefore, Most-Pure One, we truly and ceaselessly praise you as the Virgin Mother of God: Hail, angels! Hail, Noble Lady, Intercessor, and Salvation of our souls.

Return to Page 13 for The Canticle of St. Simeon.

Troparia: Resurrectional Tone 6

The Angelic Powers were at Your tomb, the guards became as dead men. Mary stood by Your tomb seeking Your Most-Pure Body. You captured the abyss not being tempted by it. You came to the Virgin granting Life. O Lord, risen from the dead, glory to You!

(Tone 6 Festal Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

You called Your Mother Blessed * and came of your own free will to Your Passion. Wishing to find fallen Adam You made Light shine from Your Cross. You said to the angels: Rejoice with Me, * for I have found the lost piece of silver [Luke 15:8-10]. You ordered everything in wisdom [Psalm 103:24], * our God, glory to You!

Return to Page 15 for The Great Dismissal.

Resurrectional Tone 7

At Psalm 140:

Lead my soul forth from prison that I may give thanks to Your  Name . . .

Come let us rejoice in the Lord * Who destroyed the power of Death * and enlightened humanity, and let us cry out with the angels: Our Creator and Savior, glory to You!

The just shall gather around me when You have been good to me ...

Savior, for our sake You suffered the Cross and Burial, and as God have also put Death to death by Death. Therefore, we worship Your Third-Day Resurrection. Glory to You, O Lord!

Lord, out of the depths I cry to You; Lord, hear my voice . . .

When beholding the Resurrection of the Creator, the Apostles in their amazement chanted an angelic hymn of praise: Behold the Glory of the Church! Behold the Richness of the Kingdom! Lord, You have suffered death for us, glory to You!

Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my prayer . . .

Christ, though You had been taken captive by lawless people, I am not ashamed for You are my God. I do not deny that Your Back was scourged. I do not hide the fact that You were nailed to the Cross. I praise Your Resurrection for Your death is my Life. All-Powerful Lord Who Loves Humanity, glory to You!

If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with You  forgiveness is that You may be revered . . .

Fulfilling the prophecy of David * Christ revealed His magnificence to the disciples in Zion, for He has shown Himself as ever praised and glorified with the Father and the Holy Spirit. At first He was without flesh as the Word, and then He was later incarnate for our sake, slain as a man, and risen in might * as the Only Lover-of-Humanity.

I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently  relies on Your promise for it has trusted in the Lord . . .

Christ of Your Own Will as God and Lord * You have descended into the abyss destroying Death. And on the third day You rose again, raising with Yourself Adam * who was held captive by the chains of the abyss and corruption. He cried out saying: Glory to Your Resurrection, Only Lover-of-Humanity!

From the morning watch until night, let Israel trust in the Lord . . .

Lord, You laid in the tomb as if asleep * and after three days You arose again in mighty power, raising Adam with Yourself from the corruption of Death as the All-Powerful.

Go to the Propers Sheet.

(Tone 7 Dogmatikon) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy  Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

You, Birthgiver-of-God, have been acknowledged to be a Mother above and beyond nature * while already remaining a Virgin. This is beyond human words or understanding, and the wonder of your birth giving no tongue can express. Most glorious was your conceiving, Pure One, and beyond the grasp of human understanding the manner of your child-bearing. For the order of nature is overthrown when God so wills it. Therefore, we all know that you are the Mother of God and urgently beseech you: Pray that our souls may be saved!

Return to Page 6 for The Entrance.

Apostikha: Resurrectional Tone 7

Rising from the tomb, Savior of the world, You have raised humanity together with Your Flesh. Glory to You, O Lord!

The Lord reigns. He has clothed Himself with honor . . . {Psalm 92}

Come let us worship the One * Who arose from the dead giving Light to all. For by His Third-Day Resurrection He set us free from the cruelty of the abyss, granting us life and great mercy.

For He has established the world which shall not be moved . . .

Christ You have descended into the abyss * imprisoning Death by Your Third-Day Rising. Lord, Lover-of-Humanity, You have raised us up with You * and we glorify Your All-Powerful Resurrection.

Holiness becomes Your house, Lord, for length of days . . .

Lord, what an awful manifestation it was to see You lying in the tomb as if asleep. You arose on the third day as One Who is Powerful, raising Adam with You and he cried out: Glory to Your Resurrection, Only Lover-of-Humanity!

(Tone 7 Great Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Taking shelter under your protection, O Lady, all us earthdwellers cry out to you: Birthgiver-of-God, you are our hope! Deliver us from our numberless sins and save our souls!

Return to Page 13 for The Canticle of St. Simeon.

Troparia: Resurrectional Tone 7

By Your Cross You destroyed Death! To the Thief You opened Paradise! For the Ointment-Bearers You changed weeping into joy! And You commanded Your Apostles, O Christ God, to proclaim that You are risen, granting the world great mercy!

(Tone 7 Festal Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Since you are the Treasury of our Resurrection * and are all-praised in the chants of sinners who have put their hope in you: Raise them from the pit and abyss of their sins: You have saved us from the punishment of our sins having given birth to our Salvation. For you were a Virgin before giving birth, you were a Virgin while giving birth, and again after childbirth you have remained a Virgin!

Return to Page 15 for The Great Dismissal.

Resurrectional Tone 8

At Psalm 140:

Lead my soul forth from prison that I may give thanks to Your  Name . . .

Christ, during this rational service we chant these evening hymns to You, commemorating the Good Will You have shown us by the Resurrection.

The just shall gather around me when You have been good to me...

Lord, O Lord, cast us not away from Your presence, but in Your Good Will have mercy on us, through the Resurrection.

Lord, out of the depths I cry to You; Lord, hear my voice . . .

Hail, Holy Zion! Mother of all Churches and Dwelling-Place of God, for you were the first to receive forgiveness of sins through the Resurrection.

Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my prayer . . .

Christ the Word was begotten by God the Father before all ages. Yet in these latter times, He freely willed to take flesh of the Virgin who knew not man. By His Death on the Cross and Resurrection, He saved humanity from the ancient curse of Death.

If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with You  forgiveness is that You may be revered . . .

Christ we glorify Your Resurrection. For by rising from the dead You freed the race of Adam from the torments of the abyss. And as God You granted life eternal and great mercy to our souls.

I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently  relies on Your promise for it has trusted in the Lord . . .

Glory to You, Christ our Savior, the Only-Begotten Son of God. For You were nailed to the Cross, and then arose on the third day from the dead.

From the morning watch until night, let Israel trust in the Lord . . .

Lord, we glorify You: For You suffered Crucifixion of Your own Will for our salvation. Almighty Savior, we worship You. We beg You not to cast us away from Your Face. Rather, hear our prayer and save us by Your Resurrection, for You truly love humanity.

Go to the Propers Sheet.

(Tone 8 Dogmatikon) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy  Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

The King of Heaven in His love for humanity appeared on earth and dwelt among us. For He took flesh from a Virgin, and He came forth from her from whom He received it. He is the only Son twofold in nature, but not in entity. Therefore, we proclaim Him to be fully God and fully Man indeed, professing Christ our God. Beseech Him, Unwedded Mother, to have mercy on our souls.

Return to Page 6 for The Entrance.

Apostikha: Resurrectional Tone 8

Jesus You descended from heaven and ascended the Cross. You came to die, Life Immortal, True Light for those Dwelling in Darkness, and Resurrection for all the Fallen. Our Savior and Enlightener, glory to You!

The Lord reigns. He has clothed Himself with honor . . . {Psalm 92}

Let us glorify Christ risen from the dead. He took on a soul and body, separating them one from the other in His Passion: For His Most-Pure Soul descended to the abyss which He imprisoned, and in His Holy Body, the Redeemer of our Souls knew not corruption.

For He has established the world which shall not be moved . . .

Christ we glorify Your Resurrection from the dead in psalms and hymns. For by it You have freed us from the torments of the abyss. And as God, You granted eternal life and great mercy.

Holiness becomes Your house, Lord, for length of days . . .

Master-of-All, Incomprehensible Maker of Heaven and Earth: Through Your suffering on the Cross You have poured out dispassion on me. After undergoing burial, You have risen in Glory, raising Adam also with Your All-Powerful Hand. Glory to Your Third-Day Resurrection through which You have granted us eternal life and cleansing of sins as the Good-Hearted One.

(Tone 8 Great Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Unwedded Virgin, Mother of God on High, you have inexpressibly conceived God in the flesh. And accept, All-Undefiled One, the prayers of your servants. Grant us all purification from our transgressions. Because you receive our prayers, pray now that we all may be saved.

Return to Page 13 for The Canticle of St. Simeon.

Troparia: Resurrectional Tone 8

You descended from on high, Good-Hearted One! You accepted the three day burial * to deliver us from our passions! Lord, our Life and Resurrection: Glory to You!

(Tone 8 Festal Theotokion) Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit . . . Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen . . .

Good One, You were born of a Virgin for our sake * and suffered Crucifixion, destroying Death by death. And, as God, You have revealed the Resurrection. Despise not the work of Your own Hands, Merciful One. Manifest Your love for humanity. Accept the prayers made on our behalf * by the Birthgiver-of-God who gave You birth, and, our Savior, save Your despairing people.

Return to Page 15 for The Great Dismissal.

Prayers of Light

1. Compassionate, Merciful and Long-Suffering Lord of Great Mercy: Heed our prayer and attend to the voice of our supplication. Work a sign of good on us. Guide us in Your Way that we might walk in Your Truth. Gladden our hearts that we may fear Your Holy Name, for You are great and You work wonders. Lord, You alone are God, and among the gods there is none as You, for You are powerful in Your mercy and great in might to help, comfort, and save all who hope in Your Holy Name.

For to You belongs all glory, honour and worship; to the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

2. Lord, rebuke us not in Your displeasure, nor chasten us in Your wrath, but deal with us according to Your tenderness, Physician and Healer of our Souls. Guide us to the haven of Your Will. Enlighten the eyes of our hearts to the knowledge of Your Truth, and grant that the remainder of this present day and the entirety of our lives may be peaceful and sinless, through the intercessions of the Holy Birthgiver-of-God and of all the saints.

For Yours is the Majesty, and Yours the Kingdom, and the Power, and the Glory, of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

3. Lord our God, remember us Your sinful and unprofitable servants when we call on Your Holy and Venerable Name, and put us not to shame when awaiting Your mercy, but grant all our petitions, Lord, which are for our salvation. Make us worthy to love and fear You with all our heart, and to do Your Will in all things.

For You are a Good and Loving God, and to You we give glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

4. The Holy Powers chant to You with unending hymns and unceasing words of glory. Fill our mouths with Your praise that we may magnify Your Holy Name. Grant us a portion and an inheritance with all who truly fear You and keep Your Commandments, through the intercessions of the Birthgiver-of-God and of all Your saints.

For to You belongs all glory, honor, and worship: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

5. Blessed are You, Lord God Almighty. You know the mind of each person, knowing what each needs even before they ask or are aware of it. Now, King Who Loves Humanity and is gracious in everything: Allow us to call on Your Holy Name in Your great mercy with an unashamed conscience. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the Evil One.

For to You belongs all glory, honor, and worship: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

6. Lord, Lord, You uphold all created things in Your All-Pure Hands. You are long-suffering toward us all, and reprove us when we are wicked: Remember Your compassion and mercy. Look upon us in Your Goodness. Grant that by Your grace, we may also avoid the subtle snares of the Evil One through the remainder of the present day, and keep our lives unthreatened, through the grace of the All-Holy Spirit.

Through the mercy and love for humanity of Your Only-Begotten Son, with Whom You are blessed, together with Your All-Holy, Good, and Life-Creating Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

7. Great and Wonderful God, You order all things and grant to us earthly goods with indescribable goodness and rich providence. You have given us an assurance of the promised Kingdom through the good things already granted to us, and have made us shun all harm during this present day which has passed. Grant that we might also complete the remainder of this day blamelessly before Your Holy Glory, and chant hymns to You, our God Who alone is Good and loves humanity.

For You are our God, and we glorify You: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

8. Great and Most-High God, You alone are immortal dwelling in unapproachable Light. You have created all in wisdom. You have divided the light from the darkness setting the sun to rule the day and the moon and the stars the night. You have also counted us sinners worthy at this present hour to come before Your presence in repentance, presenting to You our evening words of glorification: Lord, Lover-of-Humanity, direct our prayers like incense before You, accepting them as an aroma of sweet fragrance, and grant that our present evening and coming night be peaceful. Clothe us with the armor of Light. Deliver us from fear of the night, from everything that walks about in darkness, and grant that the sleep You have given for the repose of our weaknesses may be free from every fantasy of the devil. Yes, Master of All, Provider of Good, being moved to compunction on our beds, may we remember Your Name in the night. May we rise with a joyful soul to glorify Your Goodness enlightened by practicing Your Commandments and offering prayers in supplication to Your Tenderheartedness both for our own sins and those of all Your people whom You look upon with mercy through the prayers of the Holy Birthgiver-of-God.

For You are a Good and Loving God, and to You we give glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages.

Concluding Prayers for an Ecclesiastical Office

After divesting, come before the closed Royal Doors and make three small bows while saying:

Glory to You, O Lord!

Continuing in thankful adoration say:

May all creation ever render eternal praise to the All-Holy, Life-Creating, and Undivided Trinity; and may worship always be given to the humanity of our crucified Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ. May we also ever glorify the fruitful virginity of our Most Blessed Lady, the Birthgiver-of-God and Ever-Virgin Mary, and always honor the communion of all the saints. Likewise, may all of us be granted the forgiveness of our many sins, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Bowing towards the icon of the Most Holy Birthgiver-of-God, conclude by saying:

We magnify the Most-Pure Virgin Mary who carried in her blessed womb the Son of the Eternal Father, and who nursed and reared our Lord Jesus Christ.