Weekday Vespers

A Small Octoechos
Parakletike
Weekday Vespers
Translated from Greek, preserving the original meter, by Fr. Seraphim Dedes
Fourth Edition
2003
Copyright 2003 by F. Seraphim Dedes
All rights reserved.
FOREWORD
In every successive generation of Orthodox Christians in the English speaking world, the need for suitable texts in English for use in corporate and private worship is becoming increasingly more acute. Such texts are necessary inasmuch as the prayers and hymnology of our Church offer a sure, safe, and most delightful way to approach our God, to meet the Saints, and to learn about and improve on our selves. And this is so because the poets who originally composed these texts, nearly all of them monastics, were God-bearers, exponents and defenders of Orthodoxy, mystics of eternal truth, and Saints in their own right. Countless thousands of Orthodox Christians over the centuries were nurtured on these divine texts and, translated into various languages, they are recited and sung by Orthodox believers throughout the world to this day. One of the wonderful hymnals of our Church is the Octoechos (the Book of Eight Modes), also called the Parakletike (the Book of Solace and Solicitation). Herein are found hymns to be chanted morning and evening, on every day of the week, according to the eight Modes of our ecclesiastical music. The better known of these hymns are the Resurrectional anthems appointed for the services on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. But there are many more, chanted on the other days of the week. These hymns are exhortations to repentance, samples of healthy self-reproach, prayers for divine aid, and means of extolling the Mother of God and the Saints. Through them one learns the dogmas of our faith, how to understand the Bible, and the truths about the past, the present, and the things to come. Such an abundance of spiritual food! And yet, alas! hardly anyone knows about it or takes advantage of it. But, should not we also in the English speaking world have the benefit? Although it is inconceivable and inexcusable that our clergy and those aspiring to it, and even our pious laity, should not be fortified daily by the rich liturgical life of our holy Church, yet the sad truth is that most are not. Pondering on this, and knowing what benefit I received from hearing and chanting these hymns all those years on the Holy Mountain, I decided to apply myself, with Gods help, and to produce some suitable translations that may help cover this need of our people, and especially of our priests and monastics and our beloved seminarians. The present volume contains a translation of a selection of troparia from the Octoechos appointed for Vespers on the weekdays in the eight Modes. It is designed to be used in conjunction with the Menaion, on evenings when there is no great feast or highly celebrated Saint and the rubrics call for three Stichera from the Octoechos (in the Mode of the week) and three from the Menaion; and when the Menaion does not provide Aposticha. The troparia have been rendered in such a way so as to be chanted according to the Mode and the traditional 1 melodies as indicated. When no special melody is indicated, as is the case with most of the Aposticha, then the troparion is to be chanted simply according to its Mode. The so-called Dogmatic Theotokion of each Mode has been included at each Friday Vespers, since it is the practice in many places to chant it on Friday evening irregardless of the Mode of the troparion from the Menaion that precedes it. Please forgive the lack of linguistic elegance and any oversights in this work, and concentrate on the deeper meaning and purpose of the hymns, adding to this your own reverence and fervor. I am sure that in this way you will quickly begin to enjoy the vivifying waters of Orthodox piety. The hope is, through many such seemingly insignificant but nonetheless earnest efforts from various quarters, that even the English speaking world will be infused with the Orthodox ethos and in turn produce the fruits of the Kingdom of Heaven, by the grace of our Triune God, to Whom be glory forever. Amen.
Fr. Seraphim Dedes St. Gregory Palamas Monastery September 2000
The music in Western notation for these special melodies, called Automela in Greek, is available in another work of mine called Original Melodies.
A Small Octoechos
Weekday Vespers First Mode SUNDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction
If You should mark iniquities, O Lord, O Lord, who shall stand? For with You is expiation.
seech Him that surpassing peace * and great mercy * be upon our souls bestowed. Aposticha of Compunction he sea of my transgressions, O Savior, is immense, * and I am drowning grievously in my iniquities. * Save me; give Your hand to me, * O God, as to Peter, and have mercy on me.
O Martyrs, extolled.2 Lord, in Your goodness by Your Word * and Your Spirit You brought forth * all things, and then You created me the living being whom * You endowed with reason * so that I should glorify * Your holy name, O Master all-powerful. And yet instead, alas! * I dishonor You continually * with my foul deeds. * O spare me, I supplicate.
Unto You have I lifted up mine eyes, unto You that dwell in heaven. Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hands of their masters, as the eyes of the handmaid look unto the hands of her mistress, so do our eyes look unto the Lord our God, until He take pity on us.
Because of Your Name I have waited for You, O Lord; my soul has waited for Your word, my soul hoped in the Lord.
Same Melody ome to know, O miserable soul, * your divine nobility * and incorruptible fatherland, and hasten constantly, * through good deeds and virtues, * to possess it once again. * Become attached to nothing corruptible. Your lot is there on high, * but your body, being earth, decays. * Let the worse not * prevail over the better part.
am condemned, O Savior, for wicked thoughts and deeds. * Therefore, O God, implant in me the thought of turning back, * that I may cry to You, my good Benefactor: * Save me and have mercy on me.
Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us, for greatly are we filled with abasement. Greatly has our soul been filled therewith; let reproach come upon them that prosper, and abasement on the proud.
For the Angels Same Melody

From the morning watch until night, from the morning watch, let Israel hope in the Lord.
For the Martyrs hrough the intercessions, O Lord, of all the Saints and the Theotokos, * grant Your peace unto us, * and have mercy on us, * only Compassionate One.
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Angels, Archangels and the Thrones, * Powers and Authorities, * and you, O six-winged Seraphim, and many-eyed divine * instruments of wisdom * Cherubim, and most divine * Dominions, and sublime Principalities: do intercede with Christ * and be
Glory, both now. Theotokion. Original Melody3 or the celestial orders you are exultant joy * and for earth-dwelling people * the almighty protection. * Pure and holy Virgin, save us, we pray, * as for refuge we flee to you, * O Theotokos; for verily after God * do we put our every hope in you.

Mode One MONDAY VESPERS

Stichera of Compunction For the celestial orders am engulfed by the ocean of my iniquities, * and overwhelmed completely * by the sea of transgressions. * I cry to You the Master: Deliver me * from the various difficult * trials of life and temptations, O gracious Lord, * and the fire that will never end. For the Martyrs Saints, your confession of faith in the arena * disconcerted the power of the demons, * and it freed the people from delusion. * And so you cried aloud as you were beheaded: * Let the sacrifice of our souls be acceptable before You, O Master; * for, in longing for You, O Lover of man, * we have despised this temporal life.
Same Melody eing immersed in the deep of despair and hopelessness, * replete with thoughts of evil * and with negative feelings, * in You alone, O Logos of God, have I * the most wretched one set my hopes. * From the assaults of my visible and unseen * vicious enemies deliver me.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. ince you accept the entreaties of sinners * and overlook not the sighs of the afflicted, * intercede with Him who came from your undefiled loins, * O all-holy Virgin, * that we may gain salvation.
For the Forerunner O Martyrs, extolled Baptist and Forerunner of Christ, * I implore you fervently. * By your entreaties induce my heart that has been withered up * through unseemly conduct, * to incessantly pour out * a stream of tears, O wonderful Prophet John; that having gained through you * my salvation, I who am distressed * may give glory * to Him who has glorified you.
TUESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross O Martyrs, extolled ou stretched out Your undefiled hands * on the Cross, O Christ our God, * and stained your fingers with blood, thus wishing to redeem the work * of Your own divine hands, * Adam who was being held * a hostage in the kingdom of death because of disobedience; * and You raised him in Your love for man, * by Your sovereign * almighty authority.
Aposticha of Compunction he sea of my transgressions, O Savior, is immense, * and I am drowning grievously in my iniquities. * Save me; give Your hand to me, * O God, as to Peter, and have mercy on me.
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am condemned, O Savior, for wicked thoughts and deeds. * Therefore, O God, implant in me the thought of turning back, * that I may cry to You, my good Benefactor: * Save me and have mercy on me.
Same Melody Christ, You were nailed unto the Cross * as a man, and yet as God * You deified human nature; and when You had put to death * the arch-evil serpent, * You released us from the curse * that issued from the tree, for You had yourself become a curse, O Lord; * and You grant Your blessing to the world * and great mercy, * for You are compassionate.
Mode One
For the Theotokos Same Melody o terrible passions I succumbed; * for, being a terrible * delinquent, I had committed deeds most shameful and depraved. * And the lurid idols * of these acts and fantasies * within my sensing heart still unsettle me and alter me and turn * my volition towards enjoyment of * sinful pleasure. * But save me, O Virgin pure.
WEDNESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Apostles O Martyrs, extolled glorious Apostles of Christ * and Disciples called by God, * inspired teachers of all the world, when you had found the Lord * as the mediator between God and man, you cleaved * to Him in such a manner appropriate to His divinity. * And you preached Him to the universe * to be God and * manifestly perfect man.
Aposticha of the Cross he Cross was firmly planted on Calvary, * and from the ever-flowing fountain of the side of the Savior, * for us it blossomed immortality.
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or us the precious Cross of the Savior * is a rampart impregnable; * for therein believing * do we all gain salvation. For the Martyrs h, what an excellent transaction you made, O Saints! * For you invested blood and inherited the heavens. * Temporarily tested, you rejoice eternally. * Good indeed was your enterprise! * For by relinquishing things corruptible, * you received in return things that perish not. * And now exulting with the Angels * you endlessly extol * the consubstantial Trinity.
Same Melody wisest Apostles of the Lord, * intercede on my behalf, * that I might shake off the mindlessness of my bedarkened soul. * You indeed are wisdoms * mystics and interpreters; * for you have lit the light of the Paraclete.4. And once you burn away * the corruption that is in my mind, * count me worthy * to praise you and call you blest.
Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. O Martyrs, extolled eholding Him hanging on the tree * of the Cross, the Virgin cried * aloud to Christ: O beloved Son, a sword has finally pierced * through my heart, O Master, * and is tearing it apart, * as Symeon of old once foretold to me. But hasten now to rise, * O Immortal One, and glorify * with yourself me * Your Mother and servant, I pray.
For Saint Nicholas For the celestial orders s you are hovering over the flowers of the Church, * being yourself a fledgling * of the nest of the Angels, * O Nicholas thrice blessed, you ever cry * unto God on behalf of all * who in temptations and perils invoke your aid; * and you rescue them by fervent prayers.
Aposticha of the Apostles he most melodious harp of the Apostles, * set in motion by the Holy Spirit, * abolished the rites of the odious demons; * and by preaching faith in the only Lord, * it redeemed the nations from the delusion of the idols, * and taught them to worship * the consubstantial Trinity.
Paraclete = Holy Spirit.
Mode One
For the celestial orders et us with one voice together extol Saints Peter and Paul * with Luke and Mark and Matthew, * John and Andrew and Thomas, * Iakovos and Philip, Bartholomew, * also Simon and Thaddaeus; * and let us worthily praise the entire choir * of divinely called Disciples of Christ. Same Melody most compassionate Master, we all take pride in Your Cross; * and thereby devastating * the delusion of Satan, * we ceaselessly extol You; for on the Cross * You were lifted up willingly, * and thus You wrought our salvation, O gracious Lord, * in the middle of the earth, O Christ.
For the Martyrs Original Melody5 Martyrs, extolled in all the world, * you were not concealed by earth, * but rather heaven admitted you. The gates of Paradise * unto you were opened. * Having gone within, you now * enjoy the tree of life, and you intercede with Christ on our behalf, * supplicating that surpassing peace * and great mercy * be upon our souls bestowed.
For the Theotokos Same Melody ll-holy Virgin and Lady, I now invoke you again * against this fearsome passion, * the desire for money. * For truly I am fearful of its attacks * more than those of a wild beast, * since it is counted as avarice unto them * who begrudge even the smallest things.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. Same Melody ll-laudable Virgin, Moses saw * with his own prophetic eyes * of old the mystery wrought in you when he beheld the bush * unconsumed though burning. * For in you the fire of * Divinity in no way consumed your womb. And therefore we entreat * you the Mother of our Lord and God, * to grant mercy, * O pure one, and peace to your world.
Aposticha of the Cross he Cross was firmly planted on Calvary, * and from the ever-flowing fountain of the side of the Savior, * for us it blossomed immortality.
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or us the precious Cross of the Savior * is a rampart impregnable; * for therein believing * do we all gain salvation. For the Martyrs hrough the intercessions, O Lord, of all the Saints * and the Theotokos, * grant Your peace unto us, * and have mercy on us, * only Compassionate One. Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. O Martyrs, extolled y tasting the vinegar and gall * as You hang upon the Cross * as a condemned man, O righteous Judge and sweetest Child of mine, * You have sweetened Adams * former taste of bitterness. * But seeing now Your Passion has poisoned me; so sweeten me, O Lord, * by arising as Omnipotent. * Thus the Virgin * lamented while shedding tears.
THURSDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross For the celestial orders hen did the forefather taste death at the forbidden tree; * but now are all believers * freed from deaths condemnation * by the Tree of honor. O every breath, * let us glorify and extol * Him who was willingly crucified for our sake * and enlightened all the ends of the earth.
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Mode One FRIDAY VESPERS

Stichera O Martyrs, extolled ithdrawing from everything, my soul, * hold within your memory * your final hour, and be vigilant, and ever be prepared * for your own departure; * lest, arriving suddenly * and finding you unready, your death might come and take you by surprise. * So be watchful, and unceasingly * to the Lord pray, * and pour out a stream of tears. Therefore, in possessing her, the anchor of our faith, we have as a Champion the Lord who was born of her. Take courage, therefore; take courage, O people of God. For surely He will make war against the enemies, as the Almighty One. Aposticha of the Martyrs Saints, your confession of faith in the arena * disconcerted the power of the demons, * and it freed the people from delusion. * And so you cried aloud as you were beheaded: * Let the sacrifice of our souls be acceptable before You, O Master; * for, in longing for You, O Lover of man, * we have despised this temporal life.
Same Melody ortify, O pre-eternal God, * the mindset agreeing with * the carnal passions perturbing me; and by divine command, * quiet the unruly * movements in my flesh; and grant * forgiveness of my sins, inasmuch as You are quickly reconciled, * and compassionate and merciful, * in the wealth of * Your goodness and love for man.
God is wondrous in His saints.
For the Theotokos Same Melody ake me, O all-holy Bride of God, * chaste and meek and self-controlled, * decent and quiet and decorous, straightforward and devout, * truthful and courageous, * sensible, longsuffering, * and lenient and gentle and moderate, blameless, impeccable, * irreproachable; and grant to me, * in addition, * residence in Paradise.
h, what an excellent transaction you made, O Saints! * For you invested blood and inherited the heavens. * Temporarily tested, you rejoice eternally. * Good indeed was your enterprise! * For by relinquishing things corruptible, * you received in return things that perish not. * And now exulting with the Angels * you endlessly extol * the consubstantial Trinity.
The Lord has done marvelous things for His saints that are on the earth.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. s the universal glory, the Maiden born of human parents, and who gave birth to the Master, and is the gateway to heaven, let us extol the Virgin Mary, the song of the bodiless powers, and the believers ornament. She it is who was shown to be a heaven and a temple of the Godhead. She it is who, breaking down the middle wall of enmity, brought peace in its stead, and opened the Kingdom.
Original Melody Martyrs, extolled in all the world, * you were not concealed by earth, * but rather heaven admitted you. The gates of Paradise * unto you were opened. * Having gone within, you now * enjoy the tree of life, and you intercede with Christ on our behalf, * supplicating that surpassing peace * and great mercy * be upon our souls bestowed.
For the Dead

Blessed are they whom You have chosen and taken to yourself, O Lord.
hich delight of life remains untouched by sorrow? * Which earthly glory con-
Mode One
tinues immovable? * All these are dimmer than a shadow, * all more illusory than a dream. * In a single moment death succeeds them all. * But, O Christ, repose those whom You have taken, * in the light of Your countenance * and in the sweetness of Your handsomeness, * as the Lover of man. Glory, both now. Theotokion. ejoice, O holy Virgin Theotokos, * the distinguished treasure of all the universe, * the unextinguished lamp, * the container of the Uncontainable, * the indestructible temple. * Rejoice, from whom the Lamb was born * Who takes away the sins of the world.
A Small Octoechos
Weekday Vespers Second Mode
SUNDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction When he took You6 rant thoughts of repentance unto me; * also grant the love for contrition unto my humble soul. * Rouse me from the sleep of grave insensibility, * and the darkness of laziness * drive out from within me, * and dispel the gloom created by despondency, * so that looking up, I the wretched * might cling fast to You and according * to Your holy will proceed, O Word of God.
the period of grace is Gabriel, * while in the Old Testament era * of the Law and prior to Moses, * prominent is Michael, the Archangels chief. Aposticha of Compunction ike the prodigal son * I have sinned against You, O Savior. * Accept me in repentance, O Father, * and have mercy on me, O God.
Same Melody ow do I confess to You my God * everything of which I am guilty, my sins against You in word, * deed and recollection, all do I declare to You. * I have passed the entire day * and all of my lifes time; * now I have arrived at night still full of wickedness. * Therefore, I fall down to You crying: * Master, O my Master and Savior, * I have sinned; forgive and save me, Lord my God.
ith the Publican I cry * unto You, O Christ my Savior: * Unto me be gracious as You were unto him, * and have mercy on me, O God. For the Martyrs he prizewinning Martyrs who loved no earthly enjoyments * were accounted worthy of the bounties of heaven. * They have become fellow citizens of the Angels. * By their intercessions, O Lord, * have mercy on us and save us.
For the Angels. Same Melody ome, and singing spiritual songs * let us now extol the commanders of the angelic hosts. * For being preeminent among the bodiless choirs, * they were both designated as * Archangels and Generals. * Foremost in
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Glory, both now. Theotokion. impassable gate mystically sealed, * blessed Virgin Theotokos: * accept our supplications and present them * unto your Son and God, that through you He save our souls.
Mode Two MONDAY VESPERS

Stichera of Compunction When he took You s the only sinless One, O Christ, * the only forbearing, the only wellspring of charity, * see my tribulation, see my strait perplexity. * Wipe away from my wounded soul * the scars and the bruises, * and save me Your servant in Your tender mercy, O Lord, * so that with the clouds of depression * gone away, I might offer glory * unto You my Savior most benevolent. ith the Publican I cry * unto You, O Christ my Savior: * Unto me be gracious as You were unto him, * and have mercy on me, O God. For the Martyrs ince the holy Martyrs are interceding on our behalf * and are sending up their praises to Christ, * all delusion has ceased * and by faith the human race is preserved.
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Same Melody have brought corruption on my soul, * and I have polluted my body, and with my sordid thoughts * I have wounded grievously my heart and senses all. * I have sorely defiled my eyes, * my ears have I tainted, * and my tongue have I befouled. I am completely depraved. * Therefore, I fall down to You crying: * I have sinned against You, O Master. * I have sinned; forgive and save me, Christ my God.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. Mother of Light, * I have committed my every hope * wholly unto you. * Keep me under your shelter.
TUESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross. When he took You avior, when You hung upon the Cross, * seeing You the sun became darkened from overwhelming fear, * and the curtain of the Temple then was torn in two, * and the earth shook in every place, * and likewise in horror * rocks and boulders split apart, unable to behold * hanging on a cross their Creator * willfully to suffer unjustly, * nor the lawless men humiliating You.
For the Forerunner Same Melody ave me from the everlasting fire, * from the lightless darkness, from hardships, and all necessity, * from all tribulation and from all perplexing straits, * I beseech you, O Baptist John, * and by your entreaties * grant me who am self-condemned in my iniquities * surely to belong to the portion * of the saved wherein are the choirs * of the Saints and joy that is ineffable.
Aposticha of Compunction ike the prodigal son * I have sinned against You, O Savior. * Accept me in repentance, O Father, * and have mercy on me, O God.
Same Melody ou received a verdict, only King * who yourself at Your second coming will judge the universe, * and You wore a crown of thorns, O Savior, on Your head, * thus, O Lover of humankind, * completely uprooting * the thorn of deception by Your mighty sovereignty, * thereupon implanting the knowledge * of Your great compassion within all * who worship Your crucifixion faithfully.
Mode Two
For the Theotokos Same Melody s if to a haven have I run * underneath your holy protection, O Virgin Mother pure. * Have compassion, I entreat you, and reject me not; * rather save me your servant from * this present affliction, * being as you are by nature moved to sympathy. * Always intercede and deliver * us your servants from every trial, * as you are the Mother of the Most High God.
WEDNESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Apostles When he took You divine Apostles, you were seen * as the trumpets of the divine Word Who had appeared on earth. * You declared His saving dispensation unto all. * By your preaching did you destroy * the bastions of error, * congregating peoples unto pious faith in God. * Therefore, you the blessed Disciples * worthily were given the honors * and received the laurel crowns triumphantly.
Aposticha of the Cross y the power of Your Cross * save me, O Christ my Savior * Who saved Peter in the sea, * and have mercy on me, O God.
Christ our God, You have made the tree of Your Cross * a tree of life for us who believe in You. * Through it You destroyed him who had the power of death * and granted life to us who were dead because of sin. * Therefore we cry out to You, O Benefactor of all: * Glory to You, O Lord. For the Martyrs he companies of Martyrs withstood the tyrants and said: * We are soldiers enlisted by the King of hosts. * Though you consume us with tortures and fire, * yet we do not deny the power of the Trinity.
Same Melody egions of the Angels in the heights * applauded the holy Disciples, and truly they rejoiced * seeing them proclaim the incarnation of the Lord * with great freedom and confidence, * declaring to all men: * This is our God, the One who is before all time, * who assumed our flesh of His own will, * and who shares the throne with the Father, * being with the Spirit honored equally.
Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. When he took You t the crucifixion of your Son * and your God, immaculate Lady, you suffered much distress. * Groaning you lamented and you cried tearfully: * Sweetest Child of mine, alas! * How suffer You wrongly, * wishing to redeem the sons of Adam born on earth? * Therefore, moved by faith we entreat you * fervently, O all-holy Virgin, * cause Him to be clement when He deals with us.
For Saint Nicholas Same Melody ince you have been granted grace from God, * you dispense all manner of healings under your patronage * unto all who run to you, divine Saint Nicholas. * For you banish incurable * demonical passions, * curing all whom you receive into your custody. * Therefore do we also implore you: * Pray the Lord that all who extol you * always be delivered from impending harm.
Aposticha of the Apostles ou have magnified the names * of the chief Apostles, O Savior, throughout the world. * They learned the sacred mysteries of heaven; * they granted healings to those on earth, * and their shadows alone cured the illnesses. * He who was a fisherman did mira-
Mode Two
cles, * and the son of the Jews theologized on the dogmas of grace. * Through them, grant Your great mercy unto us, O compassionate Lord.
THURSDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross When he took You ince You have been lifted on the Cross, * O Lover of man, the malignant serpent has utterly * been cast down to earth completely overthrown, and he lies * as a fallen monstrosity, * while Adam the former * convict from the curse is loosed, and he is being saved. * Therefore do we also beseech You: * Save us and take pity on all men, * and Your blessed Kingdom do vouchsafe to us.
ressed by war on every side because of unrighteous deeds, * we flee for refuge unto You who indeed are God. * Hence we present to You the words of Your Disciples and say: * Save us, O Master, we are perishing. * We pray You once again to show our enemies * that You guard Your people and You save them from perils, * by the intercessions of the Apostles, * overlooking sins with great benevolence. * Glory to You, O Lord. For the Martyrs reat is the glory that you, O Saints, obtained through faith. * For not only in your suffering did you defeat the foe, * but you expel evil spirits even after death. * As physicians of souls and bodies you grant healings to the sick. * Intercede with the Lord, to have mercy upon our souls.
Same Melody avior, and the Life of all the world, * when the lawless people suspended You on a wooden cross, * all creation, horrified, then quaked in fear and awe. * By Your might and divinity * the kingdom of Hades * disappeared, accompanied by the dominion of death. * Then, too, did the forefather Adam * joyfully cry out to You: Glory * to Your condescension, Lord who love mankind.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. When he took You ll those who for refuge flee with faith * unto you, O good one, you shelter beneath your mighty hand. * We your servants have no other intercessor like you * always praying to God for us * in dangers and sorrows, * sinners that we are, bent down because of many misdeeds. * Therefore, we fall prostrate before you. * Rescue us from every affliction, * since you are the Mother of the Most High God.
For the Theotokos Same Melody ure one, we entreat you to incline * unto our petition and grant us your servants founts of tears * so that we may weep and thereby wash away the stains * of our sins, O all-blameless one, * and also extinguish * the flame of the never-ending and most bitter fire. * For indeed you answer the prayers * of those who wholeheartedly call on * you the holy Mother of our Lord and God.
Aposticha of the Cross y the power of Your Cross * save me, O Christ my Savior * Who saved Peter in the sea, * and have mercy on me, O God.
Christ our God, You have made the tree of Your Cross * a tree of life for us who believe in You. * Through it You destroyed
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Mode Two
him who had the power of death * and granted life to us who were dead because of sin. * Therefore we cry out to You, O Benefactor of all: * Glory to You, O Lord. For the Martyrs he prizewinning Martyrs who loved no earthly enjoyments * were accounted worthy of the bounties of heaven. * They have become fellow citizens of the Angels. * By their intercessions, O Lord, * have mercy on us and save us. Same Melody s the only Lover of mankind, * break apart the chains of my passions, dry up the festering * of my soul and grant me tears of true compunction, O Lord; * and illumine my darkened heart, * I fervently pray You, * and deliver me from all adverse predicaments, * turmoils and unhappy disasters, * and from all the cunning temptations * of the dreadful foe and ruler of this world.
Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. When he took You ure one, when you saw the Bunch of grapes * hanging on the Cross wholly ripened, which without being tilled * you had carried in your womb, that is your Son and God, * you lamented and mourned aloud * and cried: O my Child, * let the new sweet wine drip forth, O Benefactor, by which * all intoxication of passions * may be swept away in Your mercy, * through the ardent prayers of me who gave You birth.
For the Theotokos Same Melody tand by me, all-holy Bride of God, * when my wretched soul is about to be parted forcibly * from the members of my body. Also frustrate the plans * of the bodiless enemies, * and shatter the fangs of * those who seek to swallow up my life unsparingly, * so that having nothing to block me, * I may unimpededly rise past * the rulers of darkness standing in the air.
FRIDAY VESPERS
Stichera When he took You hen You come again, O Christ our God, * with Your holy Angels in glory to judge the universe, * when all men who ever lived shall stand before You exposed, * there to render a full account * for their every action; * then, O Word, include me in the number of Your sheep, * granting me from now absolution * of my every sin and transgression * which I have committed in this present life.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. he shadow of the Law has passed away with the coming of grace. For as the burning bush was not consumed, even though it was flaming, likewise you gave birth as a virgin and remained a virgin still. Instead of the pillar of fire has arisen the Sun of Righteousness; instead of Moses is Christ, the salvation of our souls.
Aposticha of the Martyrs ince the holy Martyrs are interceding on our behalf * and are sending up their praises to Christ, * all delusion has ceased * and by faith the human race is preserved.
he companies of Martyrs withstood the tyrants and said: * We are soldiers enlisted by the King of hosts. * Though you consume us with tortures and fire, * yet we do not deny the power of the Trinity.
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Mode Two
reat is the glory that you, O Saints, obtained through faith. * For not only in your suffering did you defeat the foe, * but you expel evil spirits even after death. * As physicians of souls and bodies you grant healings to the sick. * Intercede with the Lord, to have mercy upon our souls. For the Dead
and disintegrates. * But again at the sounding of the trumpet, * the dead shall all be resurrected * as if in a whirlwind to meet You, O Christ our God. * Then, O Master, assign the spirits of Your servants, * whom You have translated from among us, * to a place in the dwellings of Your Saints, O Christ. Glory, both now. Theotokion. Mother of Light, * I have committed my every hope * wholly unto you. * Keep me under your shelter.
ike a flower, like a dream, * so every human being withers up * and passes away
12
A Small Octoechos
Weekday Vespers Third Mode
SUNDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction Save me, O Lord my God7 Lord my God, I have sinned against You. * I have sinned against You; forgive me. * Cast me not away, O Word of God, nor loathe me. * But as You alone are merciful and understanding, * accept me back in repentance. * O my Savior, as the only One compassionate, * provide the strength for me * to execute Your statutes.
Aposticha of Compunction e offer You, O Christ, an evening hymn with incense * and spiritual songs. * O Savior, have mercy on our souls.
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S
Original Melody9 ave me, O Lord my God, save me; * for You are every mans salvation. * The storm of my passions has unsettled me, * and from the weight of my transgressions I am sinking. * Extend to me a helping hand, * O Benevolent, and lead me to compunctions light, * only Compassionate and Lover of man. For the Martyrs Original Melody10 he power of Your holy Cross, O Lord, is truly great. * It stood in one location * and throughout the world is active, * and unlettered fishermen it rendered wise Apostles, * and made the heathen Martyrs * that they might intercede * with You, O God, to save our souls.
Same Melody asten, O Lord my God, and redeem me * from the hand of the adversary. * I have fain become enslaved to the deceiver * and forsaken Your divine commandments, O Master. * Grant me time for repentance, * O Compassionate, and lead me to compunctions light, * that I may weep and mourn * over my fall, O Savior.
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7 8
For the Angels The power of Your holy Cross8 Master, You created the choirs of the Bodiless, * to all thus manifesting the richness of Your goodness. * And You brought them into being from nonexistence * that they might glorify You * with their unceasing hymns * and never-silent voices.
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Glory, both now. Theotokion. noble one and first among the Saints, * as the subject of laudations of the celestial orders, * of the hymns of the Apostles and the writings of the Prophets, * O Lady, accept our supplications.
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13
Mode Three MONDAY VESPERS

Stichera of Compunction The power of Your holy Cross he passions of my soul and body that are savagely * rebelling are submerging * me dually, O Savior. * They are drawing me into the depths of desperation. * But as of old with the sea, * so also quiet them, * and grant me serenity. For the Martyrs Original Melody11 he power of Your martyr Saints, O Christ, is truly great. * They drive out evil spirits * while lying in their monuments. * They contended for the sake of true religion, * and therefore by their faith in * the Holy Trinity * they destroyed the foes dominion.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. Theotokos, the protection of all who pray to you, * in you we trust, in you we boast, * in you is our every hope. * Intercede with Him who was born of you, * on behalf of us your worthless servants.
Same Melody Lord, Your Second Coming will be great and terrible * when You will sit in judgment * and execute it justly. * Thus I pray You, judge me not who am condemned already. * But rather spare me, O God, * and deliver me * from the impending crisis.
For the Forerunner Same Melody ease not from supplicating on behalf of all the world, * we fervently beseech you, * O Forerunner thrice-blessed, * that we may receive divine grace from heaven * to trample on the head * of the malignant one, * with you as intercessor.
TUESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross The power of Your holy Cross ur God and Lord, who out of pity took upon himself * our whole incarnate nature, * was fastened to the crossbar. * And as He himself was lifted up in body, * He lifted up fallen man, * as He was pleased to do, * by virtue of His tender mercy.
Aposticha of Compunction e offer You, O Christ, an evening hymn with incense * and spiritual songs. * O Savior, have mercy on our souls.
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Original Melody ave me, O Lord my God, save me; * for You are every mans salvation. * The storm of my passions has unsettled me, * and from the weight of my transgressions I am sinking. * Extend to me a helping hand, * O Benevolent, and lead me to compunctions light, * only Compassionate and Lover of man.
Same Melody he drops of blood and water coming forth from You, O God, * refashioned creation * when they issued from Your body. * For You wash away the sins of all in the water, * and then with Your precious blood, * O tenderloving Lord, * You write their absolution.
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To the Theotokos Same Melody upine upon the couch of my own negligence, * I lazily have wasted * the time of
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Mode Three
my existence, * and I therefore fear the hour of my exit. * But through your intercessions, * O Lady, raise me up * to repentance and save me. Aposticha of the Cross bow down, O Christ, and venerate Your precious Cross, * the keeper of the world, and salvation of us sinners, * the great propitiation, the victory of pious kings, * and the boast of the Christian world.
WEDNESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Apostles The power of Your martyr Saints12 rant peace unto Your people through the prayers of Your divine * and venrable Apostles, * O only Lord compassionate, * in Your love for man; and rescue from the terrors * all those who sing Your praises * and who faithfully * worship You the merciful God.
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he tree of disobedience brought death into the world, * whereas the tree of the Cross * brought life and incorruption. * Therefore do we worship You the Lord who were crucified. * Let the light of Your countenance be signed on us. For the Martyrs he Prophets and Apostles of Christ and martyr Saints * taught the world to worship * the consubstantial Trinity; * and the nations that had been in error they enlightened, * and made the sons of men * to have fellowship with the Angels.
Same Melody postles of the Master, truly your divine report * has gone out to the whole world * and to the ends of all the earth, * and illuminated those who lay in darkness, * and to God presented * as incense * those who came to know Him.
Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. The power of Your holy Cross he blameless Ewe, Your Mother, who gave birth to You, * beholding You suspended * upon the Cross, O Christ my God, * cried aloud as she lamented and bewailed You: * Cause me not to be childless * whom You kept in purity * even after childbirth.
For Saint Nicholas Same Melody he serpents poison bite has wounded me the prodigal, * and I am lying prostrate * and brought to desperation. * By your vigilant petitioning, O Hierarch, * do speedily restore me, * that I may glorify * your grace which is quick to hear.
Aposticha of the Apostles nto all the earth your sound has gone out, * O holy Apostles. * You destroyed the delusion of the idols * by preaching the knowledge of God. * This then is your good fight, O blessed ones. * Therefore we praise and glorify your memories.
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ince you blamelessly kept the injunctions of Christ, * O holy Apostles, * you received freely and freely you provide, * healing the infirmities of our souls and bodies. * Thus since you have access to Him, entreat for us * that our souls obtain His mercy.
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Mode Three
For the Martyrs stablished in the faith, O Lord, with hopes assurance, * and in soul united in the love for Your Cross, * Your martyr Saints destroyed the adversarys tyranny, * and they received the crowns. * And now together with bodiless hosts * they intercede on behalf of our souls. straight way, * has thrown me into the ditch of many sins on an impassable byway, * and the hellion dares to vaunt * as he beholds me completely fallen down. * So with the sword of your intercessions, O Virgin, * smite him down and free me from his snares, * since you are most compassionate. Aposticha of the Cross bow down, O Christ, and venerate Your precious Cross, * the keeper of the world, and salvation of us sinners, * the great propitiation, the victory of pious kings, * and the boast of the Christian world. he tree of disobedience brought death into the world, * whereas the tree of the Cross * brought life and incorruption. * Therefore do we worship You the Lord who was crucified. * Let the light of Your countenance be signed on us. For the Martyrs Original Melody he power of Your holy Cross, O Lord, is truly great. * It stood in one location * and throughout the world is active, * and unlettered fishermen it rendered wise Apostles, * and made the heathen Martyrs * that they might intercede * with You, O God, to save our souls. Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. he purest Virgin cried aloud to You, O Word of God: * The world is granted mercy, * creation is enlightened, * and the Gentiles find salvation through Your Cross, O Master. * But now I suffer, my Son, as I behold * Your voluntary suffering.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. The power of Your martyr Saints Maiden, you are the divine angelic powers joy, * the glory of Apostles, * the Prophets confirmation, * the protection of the people who are faithful, * a guide unto salvation; * and therefore we bow down * before you, O Virgin.
THURSDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross The power of Your martyr Saints Lord above all honor, as the Lover of mankind, * for us You were insulted, * You tasted of the vinegar, * and You willingly endured the crucifixion, * so that, O Benefactor, * by Your own death You might * redeem all from corruption.
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Same Melody ou willingly were hung upon the Cross, O gracious Lord, * and unto Your own Father * were offered as a sacrifice; * and You ended sacrifices unto idols, * and destroyed the dominion * of the malignant one, * O King of all the ages.
For the Theotokos When he extended his arms13 e who of old beguiled Adam in Eden * to disobey his Creator, * the same now having seduced me, * turning me off of the
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Mode Three FRIDAY VESPERS

Stichera The power of Your holy Cross Lord, You are compassionate and will that all be saved, * both sinners and the righteous, * that none go to perdition. * So, O Word of God, I pray You, make me also * one of those being saved, * though I have lived carelessly, * ignoring Your commandments. Aposticha of the Martyrs he power of Your martyr Saints, O Christ, is truly great. * They drive out evil spirits * while lying in their monuments. * They contended for the sake of true religion, * and therefore by their faith in * the Holy Trinity * they destroyed the foes dominion.
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Same Melody ou slumbered in the grave as man, O Christ our God; * You rose again by virtue * of Your invincible power, * and together raised those dwelling in the tombs for ages. * Therefore grant rest unto those * who have reposed in faith * in the eternal dwellings.
he Prophets and Apostles of Christ and martyr Saints * taught the world to worship * the consubstantial Trinity, * and the nations that had been in error they enlightened, * and made the sons of men * to have fellowship with the Angels.
For the Theotokos Same Melody Virgin, fervently entreat Him who was born of you, * that through your intercessions * He keep your flock uninjured * from the machinations of the adversary devil, * O holy Damsel, and grant * the strength to everyone * to fulfill His divine will.
stablished in the faith, O Lord, with hopes assurance, * and in soul united in the love for Your Cross, * Your martyr Saints destroyed the adversarys tyranny, * and they received the crowns. * And now together with bodiless hosts * they intercede on behalf of our souls. For the dead
Glory, both now. Theotokion. ow can we not marvel at your theandric14 childbirth, O most reverend Maid? For while having had no spousal congress, allblameless one, you gave birth unto a Son unfathered in the flesh, Who had, unmothered, been begotten of the Father before all ages. He in no way underwent any change, intermingling or division; but He preserved each natures distinct identity in its totality. Therefore, O Virgin Mother and Sovereign Lady, entreat Him for the salvation of the souls of those confessing you, in Orthodox manner, to be Theotokos.
Theandric = of one who is both God and man.
seless are all human things * which after death exist no more. * Wealth does not remain, * neither does glory follow. * For when death arrives it causes all to vanish. * So to Christ the immortal King let us cry aloud: * To those who have departed from among us grant repose, * where the dwelling of all who are in bliss is in You. Glory, both now. Theotokion. Theotokos, holy among women, * Mother unwedded, * intercede with the King and God whom you bore, * that He save us as the Lover of man.
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17
A Small Octoechos
Weekday Vespers Fourth Mode
SUNDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction To a brave one in Martyr Saints15 you misrable soul of mine, * come and fall down before your God, * and with tearful fervor to Him say: I have sinned. * Before the end, O unholy thing, * move the Judge to clemency, * and wholeheartedly cry out * unto Him who is merciful: * O most gracious God, * disregard not my penitential sighing, nor ignore my hearts contrition, * O most compassionate Lord of mine. Same Melody he insidious enemy, * both at night and throughout the day, * ceases not his efforts to tempt me into sin, * unto perdition alluring me * and to the abyss of vice. * But since You alone are good, * have compassion and rescue me * from his tyranny * and from every necessity; and save me, O supremely good Lord Jesus, * from every manner of punishment. For the Angels Same Melody ou created the hierarchies * of the Angels and regiments * of the hosts of heaven by Your divine command * and Your omnipotent beckoning, * as being benevolent, * wishing thereby to display * Your abundant

benevolence. * For it had to be, * O beginningless Master, that Your goodness overflow and that it travel, * and thus become greatly multiplied. Aposticha of Compunction Original Melody16 ow I intended, O Lord, to cancel * with my tears the bond against me of my iniquities, * and through repentance so to be pleasing * unto You throughout the remainder of my life. * But then the enemy beguiles me * and on my soul wages warfare. * Save me before I utterly perish, O Lord my God. Same Melody ho has been tossed by a storm and hastened * to this calm and quiet harbor whose life has not been saved? * Or who was afflicted with pain and illness * and ran unto this clinic whose health was not restored? * O Creator of all things * and Physician of the ailing, * save me before I utterly perish, O Lord my God.
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For the Martyrs Christ our God, * who are glorified in the memorials of Your Saints, * being importuned17 by them, * send down Your great mercy unto us.
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Importune = to request urgently.
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Mode Four
Glory, both now. Theotokion. ejoice, Cloud of light; rejoice, O radiant Lampstand; * rejoice, Jar of manna; O Rod of Aaron, rejoice; rejoice, O holy Mountain; * rejoice, O Paradise; * O holy Table, rejoice; rejoice, O mystical Gate; rejoice. O hope of all. For the Forerunner You have given those who fear You19 y the serpents wickedness has my unfortunate soul been dimmed. * Hence, I pray you, illumine it * through your intercessory prayers. And direct me * to walk on the straight paths which lead unto the blessed life, * I supplicate you, O blessed Baptist John, * that I your worthless suppliant,20 having succeeded in my request, * may with zeal always glorify * you, O wonderful man of God. Aposticha of Compunction Original Melody ow I intended, O Lord, to cancel * with my tears the bond against me of my iniquities, * and through repentance so to be pleasing * unto You throughout the remainder of my life. * But the enemy beguiles me * and on my soul wages warfare. * Save me before I utterly perish, O Lord my God. Same Melody ho has been tossed by a storm and hastened * to this calm and quiet harbor whose life has not been saved? * Or who was afflicted with pain and illness * and ran unto this clinic whose health was not restored? * O Creator of all things * and Physician of the ailing, * save me before I utterly perish, O Lord my God.
MONDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction When you were called 18 e, O my soul, like the Canaanitish woman. * Cleave to Christ and frequently cry out to Him with faith: * O Lord, have mercy on me, I pray. * I have no daughter * but my demoniac and unruly flesh. * Cast out hardness from therein, I fervently beseech, * and while arresting the throbbings of * unruly movements, * completely deaden it by the fear of You, * at the entreaties of the Maiden who * both conceived You, O Christ, and gave birth to You * without stain, and of all Saints, * Benefactor greatly merciful.
Same Melody he Prophet Jonah You sent of old, O Savior, * to preach to the Ninevites; for they had greatly sinned. * When they repented, Your anger changed * into compassion, * and they were saved from the devastating wrath. * Hence, O You who love mankind, send also unto me, * who am unworthy, Your mighty aid, * that I may likewise * return from my own countless iniquities, * and be directed to the trodden paths * of repentance, and weep sighing bitterly, * so that I be delivered * by Your mercy from my many sins.
For the Martyrs Lover of man, * Who have accepted the holy Martyrs endurance, * do also from us accept this hymnody; * and by their supplications, * grant great mercy unto us.
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Glory, both now. Theotokion. You have given those who fear You ou, the cleanest palace of the King of all, do I now implore, * Lady widely ex-
18
Suppliant = an alternative form of supplicant.
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Mode Four
tolled in song. * Purify my intellect, for it has been soiled * by many offenses. Make it a dwelling that is bright * and a delight for the Holy Trinity, * that I your worthless suppliant, having, O pure one, through you been saved, * may rejoicingly magnify * your compassion and sovereignty. * might be able to magnify * your great help and ascendancy.21 Aposticha of the Cross Christ, You have given us Your Cross * as a weapon undefeatable; * and thereby we defeat the assaults of the enemy.
O O
TUESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross You have given those who fear You t first You created me from earth, O Lover of humankind. * With Your image You honored me * and granted me the delight * which was in the Garden. * And when I was lured by the tree of knowledge and I fell * into corruption, You raised me up again, * Immortal One, yourself becoming mortal and being crucified, * out of great and rich mercy and * condescension immeasrable.
Christ, in possession of Your Cross * as a source of help forevermore, * with ease we trample underfoot the snares of the enemy. For the Martyrs ince you have confidence before the Savior, O Saints, * intercede unceasingly on behalf of us sinners, * requesting the forgiveness of our transgressions * and great mercy upon our souls.
Same Melody Lord, being merciful, when You were crucified, with yourself * did You crucify sin as well. * By the puncture of the nails * did You blot the curse out; * and by being lanced in the side did You, O Christ our God, * tear up the bond of the first created man. * I magnify Your sufferings; Your resurrection I glorify * through which everyone who was dead * in the passions was brought to life.
Glory both now. Stavrotheotokion. To a brave one in Martyr Saints hen the Ewe lamb who gave You birth * saw You hanging upon the Cross * You the Lamb and Shepherd she cried aloud in grief, * and as a mother she said to You: * Is this what, O dearest Son, * the defiant people gives * in return for enjoying Your * greatest miracles? * Even so, glory be to Your ineffable divine condescension, * O only Lover of humankind.
WEDNESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Apostles To a brave one in Martyr Saints aving spread out the net, O Christ, * of the Faith in a cruciform, * Your divine Apostles twelve-numbered company * brought in the catch of the nations all * unto knowledge of the truth, * and they caused the salty
For the Theotokos Same Melody ipe away the sordidness, all-lauded Mother of God, I pray, * from this misrable heart of mine, * disinfecting all its wounds * and its ulcerations * which were generated by sin, O pure one; and arrest * the instability of my intellect, * that even I your wretched servant, I your unworthy suppliant,
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21
Ascendancy = controlling influence.
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Mode Four
seas * of the passions to desiccate.22 * Therefore I beseech, * through their prayers which are always well accepted, call me back again, O Savior, * out of the deep of iniquities. Same Melody et us sing now in holy song * and today praise the company * of divinely chosen all-honorable twelve * Apostles Peter and Paul and James, * with Andrew the glorious, * and divine beloved John, * Philip, Matthew, Iakovos, * wise Bartholomew, * Thomas, Thaddaeus, Simon called the Zealot, praising Mark and Luke together * with all the rest of the seventy. know God and are known by God, * O lambs whose fold is inaccessible to wolves: * intercede that together with you * we also may be shepherded beside the still water of rest. Glory, both now. Theotokion. other of Christ our God, * rescue us from our necessities, * O Birthgiver of the Maker of all, * so that all of us may cry to you: * Rejoice, only patronage of our souls.
THURSDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross You have given those who fear You ll creation underwent an alteration and shook with fear * when it witnessed You crucified. * The earth altogether quaked, * trembling in confusion. * And the Temples curtain from fear was also torn in two, * when You were outraged, forbearing Word of God. * And then the rocks themselves did split apart, for they too were horrified. * And the sun, recognizing You * its Creator, withheld its rays.
For Saint Nicholas Same Melody ou the unwaning beacon light * and the lamp of the universe, * who have brightly shone in the Churchs firmament, * O holy father Saint Nicholas, * illumining all the world * and dispelling the adverse * gloom of difficult dangers and * lifting up the storm * of depressing despondency, and bringing a deep stillness and profound calm, * do we pronounce blessed gratefully.
Aposticha of the Apostles ith the Holy Spirit, O Christ, * did You enlighten the choir of Apostles. * Through them wash away the filth of our sins, * and have mercy on us, O God.
he Holy Spirit, O Christ our God, * made the illiterate Disciples into teachers. * And by the grandiloquent music of the tongues, * He, being Omnipotent, abolished delusion. For the Martyrs living sacrifices, rational whole-burnt offerings, * O Martyrs of the Lord, * and perfect sacrificial victims of God, * who
Same Melody ow did that most lawless people dare pass judgment, condemning You * the divine and immortal Judge * Who yourself inscribed the Law * of old in the desert * for Moses who saw God? How was it that when they beheld * the Life of all men to die upon the Cross * they neither were afraid at all, nor in their minds did they reckon that * truly You are the only Lord * and Master of creation all?
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22
Desiccate = to dry up.
For the Theotokos Same Melody am being shaken by assaults of demons and to the pit * of perdition am being thrust, * O Lady; so pity me, * and also confirm me * on the rock of virtue. And when you scatter
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Mode Four
to the winds * the plans the enemies have in store for me, * then grant me to fulfill every divine command of your Son and God, * so that I might obtain complete * absolution on Judgement Day. Aposticha of the Cross Christ, You have given us Your Cross * as a weapon undefeatable; * and thereby we defeat the assaults of the enemy. of death. * If You yourself demolish the house of * the flesh and build the house of the spirit in its stead, * then he who wages the warfare * upon my soul watches vainly. * Save me before I utterly perish, O Lord my God. Same Melody ou gave the enemy for my welfare * as a gift and scourge of discipline, tenderloving God. * For notwithstanding his evil purpose, * his wickedness cooperates with me for the good. * Yet I do not flee for refuge * unto You through thanksgiving. * Save me before I utterly perish, O Lord my God.
O O O
Christ, in possession of Your Cross * as a source of help forevermore, * with ease we trample underfoot the snares of the enemy. For the Martyrs Christ our God, * who are glorified in the memorials of Your Saints, * being importuned by them, * send down Your great mercy unto us. Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. When you were called o not lament me, O Mother, when beholding * that I who originally made creation all, * and who suspended the earth above * the waters freely, * your Son and God, am suspended on a cross. * Indeed I shall rise again and shall be glorified, * and by my might I shall overthrow * the realm of Hades, * and I shall cause its power to disappear. * Being compassionate, I shall rescue them * who are captives therein from its wickedness. * As the Lover of mankind, * to my Father I shall bring them in.
For the Theotokos Same Melody other of God, grant me tears, I pray you; * also make my stony heart to be humble and contrite. * Grant me to make a complete confession * of the sinful actions of my entire life, * that I may pass the remainder * of my life in repentance, * with your help, and obtain the remission of all my sins.
FRIDAY VESPERS
Stichera How I intended, O Lord, to cancel hatter, O Master and God, the passions * of my wretched heart, for they are the carriers
Glory, both now. Theotokion. n former times, Prophet David Gods forebear 23 by you proclaimed melodiously concerning you, saying unto Him who has done great things for you: The Queen stood at Your right hand. For God showed you forth to be His Mother and agent of life, since from you, without a father, He was pleased to become a man, so that He might himself form anew His own image corrupted by the passions, and, after finding the lost sheep which had gone astray on the mountains and taking it upon His shoulders, He might bring it to the Father, and by His own will unite it with the heavenly Powers, and save the world, O Theotokos, as Christ who possesses the great and rich mercy.
23
Forebear = ancestor, forefather.
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Mode Four
Aposticha of the Martyrs Lover of man, * Who have accepted the holy Martyrs endurance, * do also from us accept this hymnody; * and by their supplications * grant great mercy unto us. whose fold is inaccessible to wolves: * intercede that together with you * we also may be shepherded beside the still water of rest. For the Dead
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ince you have confidence before the Savior, O Saints, * intercede unceasingly on behalf of us sinners, * requesting the forgiveness of our transgressions * and great mercy upon our souls.
ith the spirits of the righteous who have been perfected, * O Savior, grant rest to the souls of Your servants, * keeping them in the blessed life which is with You, O Lover of man. Glory, both now. Theotokion. aving you, O Theotokos, as our hope and protection, * we are not dismayed by the schemes of the foe, * for truly you save our souls.
living sacrifices, rational whole-burnt offerings, * O Martyrs of the Lord, * and perfect sacrificial victims of God, * who know God and are known by God, * O lambs
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A Small Octoechos
Weekday Vespers Plagal of the First Mode
SUNDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction Rejoice 24 oe be to me who moved You to wrath, * O my compassionate and merciful Lord and God! * How many times I have promised, * O Christ, that I would repent * and turned out a liar, mindless that I am! * My former baptismal robe have I soiled entirely * and disregarded the agreements I made with You. * And a second time, I have broken my vows to You. * For after having freely donned * this habit of mournfulness, * having professed my vocation * in front of men and the Angels too, * unfaithful have I been. * So, O Savior, do not leave me to perish utterly.
Same Melody oly Archangels, I am distressed * by the excretions of the passions which fill like rheum25 * the eyes of my heart and darken them; * and I cannot see at all * the ways to salvation. Hence, as I proceed, * I wander about and fall * badly into the pit of hell. * But when recalling all your marvelous miracles, * I receive the healing of all my infirmity. * O that I might now quickly see * your kindly goodwill towards me! * Hasten and put out the flames of * my passions, O spirit messengers. * Release me from evils * and direct me to the light of salvation evermore.
Same Melody hat kind of a defense will you have * the day of judgment, O unfortunate soul of mine? * Or who from the condemnation * of the continual fire * and from all the tortures then shall rescue you? * Nobody unless you cease * to commit your unlawful acts, * and rather take hold of a God-pleasing way of life, * weeping daily for your uncountable trespasses * into which you fall every hour * in word, deed, and thought as well; * and pray to Christ that He grant you * complete forgiveness for all of them. * And thus you will make Him * who is known for His compassion propitious unto you.

Aposticha of Compunction ord, I do not desist from committing sins; and though deemed worthy of Your love for man, I am unmindful. * Overcome my hardheartedness, * only One benevolent, and have mercy.
Lord, from fear of You I am terrified, * and even so I cease not from doing evil. * In a court of justice who is not terrified of the judge? * Or who, wishing to be healed, enrages the physician as I do? * Be compassionate towards my infirmity, * O forbearing Lord, and have mercy on me.
25
24
Pronounced like room, rheum is the English equivalent of the Greek word , the heavily stressed opening word of this troparion in Greek; it means a watery discharge from the mucous membranes esp. of the eyes or nose.
24
Mode Pl. I
For the Martyrs ou disdained all earthly things, * and you manfully defied the tortures. * And hence you failed not in your blessed hopes, * but became heirs of the Kingdom of heaven, * O Martyrs, extolled throughout the world. * Since to our humane God you speak with freedom, * ask for peace for the world, * and great mercy upon our souls. You. * My heart is completely buried * beneath depraved evil thoughts, * and my eyes are blinded, wretched that I am. * The passions have darkened the soul I carry about with me, * and the unseemly pleasures cover me all around, * hateful that I am, and from these I have no relief. * Stretch out Your undefiled hands, * O Lover of man, to me. * Save me, O Savior, I cry out * to You, and cleanse from impurity * of many offenses * and from ills that are to follow, O sympathetic Lord. For the Forerunner Same Melody holly have I entrusted to You, * O wise and holy Baptist John, all my heart and mind. * Become a most earnest patron * for me, a helper and guard, * my hope of salvation, and a source of strength, * superlative helmsman and a most trustworthy sentinel, * haven and rampart. And, O Forerunner, rescue me * from pernicious foes, and from perils deliver me. * For you have uncontestably * the power to intercede, * and you possess, O all-blest one, * immense compassion and sympathy; * through which guard and shelter, * and look out for me while granting great mercy unto me.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. ow awesome and extraordinary and great is the mystery! * The Uncontainable is contained in a womb, * and after birth the mother remained a virgin still. * For it was God Whom she bore, become incarnate from her. * To Him let us cry aloud, to Him let us exclaim our hymn, and let us sing with the Angels: * Holy are You, O Christ our God, who for us became a man. Glory to You.
MONDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction Rejoice avior, dissolve my hardness of heart * which has resulted from demonic activity, * and grant unto me in torrents * tears of repentance, that I * may lament my many grave iniquities, * and also may wash myself * clean of all that pollutes my thoughts, * and from the darkness of forgetfulness be released, * and may rise unto a perception of what is good. * Hearken unto me and attend. * Be gracious to me, O Lord, * and set me free from the passions * that are oppressing my wretched soul, * that I might in You find * relaxation and may function according to Your will.
Aposticha of Compunction ord, I do not desist from committing sins; and though deemed worthy of Your love for man, I am unmindful. * Overcome my hardheartedness, * only One benevolent, and have mercy.
Same Melody ood Lord, I set in motion my lips * that are polluted and extend filthy hands to
Lord, from fear of You I am terrified, * and even so I cease not from doing evil. * In a court of justice who is not terrified of the judge? * Or who, wishing to be healed, enrages the physician as I do? * Be compassionate towards my infirmity, * O forbearing Lord, and have mercy on me.
25
Mode Pl. I
For the Martyrs rmed with the shield of faith, and rousing themselves to action with the sign of the Cross, * O Lord, Your Saints of their own accord went forth courageously to the tortures, * and they abolished the delusion and the audacity of the devil. * At their entreaties, O omnipotent God, * send peace down upon the world, and great mercy upon our souls. to live * in You, a model of how * we might live and might be glorified with You. * We pray You to grant to us * who now carry Your death about * within ourselves that we become the participants * of the sufferings and the glory along with You. * Deaden the movements of my flesh, * and nail down its members too, * using the pure and divine fear * of You, O Lover of humankind. * And thus making me dead * to the world, make me alive unto Your commands alone. For the Theotokos Same Melody eeping, I grieve and bitterly sulk * when meditating on the terrible reckoning, * not having through deeds acquired * the ground for even a weak * plea in my defense. Hence, I the wretch entreat: * O pure one, bestow on me the remission of all my sins, * before my life ends in an hour unknown to me, * and before the sickle, before death and Judgement Day, * also before I must collect * whatever is due to me, * where the unquenchable fire is, * the outer darkness, and then that worm * devouring transgressors. * And I pray you, grant, O Virgin, great mercy unto me.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. e pronounce you blessed, O Virgin Theotokos, * and we glorify you, dutybound as believers; * the city unshakable, the wall indestructible, the firm and steadfast protection, * and the place of refuge for our souls.
TUESDAY VESPERS
Stichera to the Lord Rejoice hen books shall be laid open, O Christ, * on that most terrifying day when You come again, * when all people shall appear before * Your just tribunal, O Lord, * everyone awaiting their verdict from You, * when fire shall pour out and flow in front of the judgment seat, * and when the trumpet shall be sounded resoundingly, * what am I the wretch then to do, for I am accused * by my own conscience and condemned * to flames that are never doused? * O Christ my God, hence with fervor * do I implore that before the end * I might find remission * of my sins from You Who grant Your great mercy to the world.
Aposticha of the Cross ven if Your Cross appears to be wooden in essence, * yet it is invested, O Christ, with divine power. * And while appearing visibly in the world, * invisibly it works the miracle of our salvation. * We revrence it and thereby glorify You, O Savior. Have mercy on us.
E T
Same Melody oing unto Your Passion, O Christ, * upon Your shoulders did You take up Your precious Cross, * becoming for us, who wish
he tree of Your Cross, O Christ, was merely planted in the earth, * and as a consequence delusion has been banished and grace has blossomed. * For no longer is it the punishment of condemnation, * but rather it was shown to us to be a trophy of salvation. * The Cross is our firm support: the Cross is our boast; * the Cross is our joyous delight.
26
Mode Pl. I
For the Martyrs ntercede on our behalf, O holy Martyrs, * that we be delivered from our iniquities. * For to you has the grace been given to intercede on our behalf. Same Melody y your fervent entreaties redeem * us from the surging of temptations, O holy men, * and from the eloquent prattle * of undevout heresies, * and from all the demons great malevolence, * all-blessed Apostles, and from the tumult of the masses, * and from the fire that is lightless, and from the worm * that will never cease, and from gnashing of teeth as well. * Also implore the Lord that we, * through labors and self-control, * might thus receive the rewards for * attaining virtues with piety, * and find an allotment * and great mercy in the Kingdom of heaven evermore. For Saint Nicholas Same Melody ejoice, pure habitation wherein * the Holy Trinity made its dwelling, most sacred mind, * the Churchs unshaken pillar, and the believers support, * for you are the help of all who are oppressed. * O Star that at all times dispels the gloom of adversities * and of temptations by the radiance of your prayers * that are well received, holy Hierarch Nicholas, * calm haven wherein those who meet the turbulent storms of life * and are surrounded by tempests escape for refuge and hence are saved. * To Christ pray with fervor, * holy father, that great mercy be given to our souls.
Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. Rejoice esus, when she who gave birth to You * stood at Your Cross, with lamentations she mourned for You * and cried out: I cannot bear it * to see You nailed to a cross, * O my Son whom I brought forth into the world. * For I, being husbandless, then evaded the labor pains. * So how am I now, being blameless, afflicted by * such distressing pain which is tearing my heart apart? * Finally is the word fulfilled * which Symeon said to me * when he foretold in the Temple * that through my own heart a sword would pierce. * But now, O my Child, * from the dead arise and save all who sing in praise of You.
WEDNESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Apostles Rejoice ou were disciples of the divine * and hypostatic Word of God Who from utmost love * for mankind sojourned with mortals, * and Who in truth did assume * their entire nature deifying it. * Most glorious wise men, therefore you followed in His godly steps * and imitated His example of poverty, * counting everything to be rubbish most prudently. * Thus for your journey you did not * provide yourselves with a staff * or with a bag; and with courage * the second tunic you put away. * And hence you were truly * counted worthy to inherit heavenly treasures now.
Aposticha of the Apostles Disciples of the Savior, since you became * eyewitnesses of mysteries, * you preached of Him who is unseen and who has no beginning, * and you said: In the beginning was the Logos. * You were not created before the Angels, nor did you learn this from men, but from the wisdom from heaven. * Therefore since you have confidence, * intercede on behalf of our souls.
W
27
ith songs let us tunefully extol the Apostles of the Lord. * For having
Mode Pl. I
donned the panoply26 of the Cross, * they abolished the delusion of idols and emerged crowned victors. * By their intercessions, O God, have mercy upon us. For the Martyrs efusing to deny Christ, O holy Martyrs, * you endured the various painful tortures * with an insatiable willingness of soul. * You humbled the impudence of the tyrants, * having kept your faith steadfast and invulnerable, * and you were translated27 to heaven. * Since you therefore have obtained confidence before the Lord, * entreat Him that great mercy be granted to us. did You freely * grant Your peace and Your great mercy unto the universe. Same Melody oses Your mighty servant, O Christ, * set up a brazen serpent, thus saving mortals from * the harm of the poison bite of * the deadly serpents, and thus * prefigured Your Passion, O compassionate, * longsuffering Lord. And now, on a cross You were crucified, * and hence the world has been redeemed from the serpents harm * and has been uplifted from earth unto heavens heights. * Therefore exultantly we sing * extolling Your sovereignty, * and with prostrations we honor * Your Cross, O Lover of humankind. * For all of creation * has through it obtained great mercy and easy-gotten worth.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. ejoice, Maiden full of grace, O Mother of Christ God, * for the King of glory appeared unto you, * and the all-holy Spirit overshadowed you. * Since you speak with freedom, intercede that our souls be saved.
THURSDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross Rejoice ishing, O most benevolent Lord, * to end the troubles and reproaches on mortal men, * You suffered a most disgraceful death * by crucifixion for all, * O forbearing Savior, and You tasted gall, * in this way removing all our most venomous bitterness. * And You were wounded with a lance in Your spotless side, * thereby granting healing, O Master, unto our wounds. * Glorious was Your death upon * the Cross that we now extol. * With veneration we honor * the lance, the sponge, and the reed as well, * through which
For the Theotokos Same Melody ady, since the shoulders of my soul * indeed are always heavy laden with multitudes * of sins and with grievous hardships, * and I am bowed to the ground, * I dare not to lift up my eyes toward the heights. * And therefore I cry to you from the depths of my heart and say: * On me have mercy, you who ushered into the world * from your spotless womb the compassionate God of all. * Show your illimitable store * of marvelous miracles, * and also stretch out your holy * and undefiled hands unto your Son, * O Virgin, and grant me, * by your fervent supplications, salvation of my soul.
26 27
Panoply = a full suit of armor. Translate = to transfer, convey.
Aposticha of the Cross n the time of Moses the Prophet, O Lord, * the figure of Your Cross, when displayed, * by itself defeated Your enemies. * Now that we possess the very Cross itself, * we entreat Your assistance. * Strengthen Your Church, and to our kings grant the trophy, * as You once did to Constantine, * in the abundance of Your mercy, O Lover of man.
28
Mode Pl. I
ven if Your Cross appears to be wooden in essence, * yet it is invested, O Christ, with divine power. * And while appearing visibly in the world, * invisibly it works the miracle of our salvation. * We revrence it and thereby glorify You, O Savior. Have mercy on us. For the Martyrs ou disdained all earthly things, * and you manfully defied the tortures. * And hence you failed not in your blessed hopes, * but became heirs of the Kingdom of heaven, * O Martyrs, extolled throughout the world. * Since to our humane God you speak with freedom, * ask for peace for the world, * and great mercy upon our souls.
the spirit by divine command. * Deliver me from attacks and abuse from the unseen foes * who lie in ambush to disjoint me unsparingly * and to make of me for themselves something to devour. * O count me worthy to attain * refreshment wherein all pain, * distress and sighing are absent, * and wherein issues the torrent of * delight, and the sound of * those who celebrate reechoes and exultation reigns. Same Melody avior, I cry aloud unto You * as did the Canaanitish woman: O heal my soul, * and rescue me from demonic harm * and from illtreatment of foes * who ever disturb me by abnormal means * defacing Your image, O Lord, in which You created me, * and who allure me * into choosing to ponder on * useless recollections and also reproachful thoughts. * Fervently I beseech of You * to blot them out from my heart, * and in their place, I entreat You, * there to implant purest fear of You. * And grant me, I pray You, * to complete my life in peace and humility of soul.
Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. Rejoice s I behold the lance digging up * Your blameless side, O dearest Son, I am wounded by * the terrible sword of sorrow, * and I have no strength at all * yet to utter even a sigh from my soul. * Such words the all-pure one said as she stood by at Your Passion * and as she witnessed You unjustly be sacrificed, * O forbearing Lord and exceeding benevolent. * Where are my tidings of good news, * and he who told me, Rejoice, * and my ineffable childbirth? * And where is Peter Your ardent friend? * She tearfully shouted: * Even so, glory to Your fathomless longsuffering.
For the Martyrs. ntercede on our behalf, O holy Martyrs, * that we be delivered from our iniquities. * For to you has the grace been given to intercede on our behalf.
I I
FRIDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction Rejoice pare me Your humble servant, O Christ, * during the hour when my soul shall be parted from * my body, upon Your order, * which once had brought into one * the dust and
Glory, both now. Theotokion. n the Red Sea, an image of the Bride who knew not wedlock was once delineated of old. For thereat did Moses sever the water; and herein is Gabriel, the server of the wonder. At that time Israel, without getting wet, traversed the deep; and now, without seed, the Virgin gave birth to Christ. The sea, after the passage of Israel, remained impassable; the blameless Maid remained incorrupt after the conception of Emmanuel. O God, the One who is and who ever was and appeared as man, have mercy on us.
29
Mode Pl. I
Aposticha of the Martyrs ou disdained all earthly things, * and you manfully defied the tortures. * And hence you failed not in your blessed hopes, * but became heirs of the Kingdom of heaven, * O Martyrs, extolled throughout the world. * Since to our humane God you speak with freedom, * ask for peace for the world, * and great mercy upon our souls. naked. * And I said: Who is this: a king or a soldier, * a rich man or a pauper, a righteous man or a sinner? * Even so, O Lord, grant repose with the righteous unto Your servants.
Their souls will dwell among good things.
For the Dead

ou fashioned me, O Lord, and laid your hand upon me, * and You commanded me and said: You shall return again to earth. * Lead me in Your straight way; forgive me my offenses, * and absolve me, I entreat You, O Lover of man. Glory, both now. Theotokion. e importune you since you are Gods Mother. * O blessed one, intercede for our salvation.
recalled the Prophet who shouted: I am dust and ashes. * And again I observed in the graves, * and beheld the bones that were
30
A Small Octoechos
Weekday Vespers Plagal of the Second Mode
SUNDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction When the saints deposited28 ou, O Word of God, do not * desire the death but repentance * of all men who, like myself, * have committed sins against * You, O Christ and Lord. * Being most compassionate, * You extend Your mercy * unto me Your servant constantly. * Hence show me sympathy * as I now repent and presume to seek * forgiveness for my wicked deeds * by which I have often embittered You. * For if You should save me, * unworthy though I be, You shall disclose * in me the vastness of Your divine * mercies and Your love for man.
For the Angels Same Melody ominions, Authorities, * the Seraphim and Archangels, * Angels and immaculate * Cherubim as well as Thrones * overcome with awe * all attend Your sublime * and most venerated * throne and holy glory with respect. * And all the Powers too, * with the Principalities, glorify * Your wonderful magnificence * and Your inexpressible providence, * and they are amazed by * Your wisdom in the things that are, O Christ. * And on behalf of our souls do they * intercede with confidence. Aposticha of Compunction epentance I have not attained; * moreover I do not have tears. * Hence, O Savior, * You I fervently beseech: * Before the end convert me, * and grant repentance unto me, * that I be freed from the future punishment.
Same Melody ou want all men to be saved, * O only Lover of mankind. * And being compassionate * You call to repentance those * who offended You. * Hence I pray You, O Lord, * by no means remember * the disgrace of the indecent deeds * which I the wretched one * woefully committed before Your eyes, * not shuddering with horror that * nobody escapes Your almighty hands. * Wherefore on my knees now * I fall down and I sigh and I lament, * mentally clasping Your holy feet * to receive forgiveness from You.
t Your frightful second coming, O Christ, * may we not hear You say: I know you not. * For on You we set our hope, * even if because of our negligence * we do not perform Your commandments. * O spare our souls, we fervently appeal to You. For the Martyrs our Martyrs did not renounce You, O Lord, * nor did they deviate from Your commandments. * Through their intercessions, have mercy on us.
28
31
Mode Pl. II
Glory, both now. Theotokion. believers, let us extol archangelically * the heavenly bridal chamber and the gate that was truly sealed: * Rejoice, O Maiden, through whom to us sprouted forth * the Savior of one and all, Christ the Giver of life and God. * Strike down our enemies, the godless tyrants, with your hand, * O immaculate Lady, the Christians hope. For the Forerunner She who was forsaken30 otally condemned am I by my vices. * I am sunk completely in desperation. * Yes, I am extremely bad in every way and gloomy, * covered with blemishes all over, * entirely corrupted * woefully by unseemly pleasures, * and through abuse am worthless. * I fall prostrate at your feet and beg you, * O blessed John, reject me not, but rather rescue me, * O friend and Forerunner of the Lord.
MONDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction When the saints deposited holly from my childhood * am I enslaved to the pleasures * of the flesh and have become * a haunt of the passions that * are oppressing me. * Totally unconcerned * with my soul, O Savior, * Your commandments I did not regard. * Nevertheless, since You * fashioned me and know my infirmity * and truly are compassionate * and alone without sin, forgive the sins * which I have committed * in knowledge and in ignorance from youth, * both with my senses and mentally, * only sympathetic Lord.
Aposticha of Compunction epentance I have not attained; * moreover I do not have tears. * Hence, O Savior, * You I fervently beseech: * Before the end convert me, * and grant repentance unto me, * that I be freed from the future punishment.
t Your frightful Second Coming, O Christ, * may we not hear You say: I know you not. * For on You we set our hope, * even if because of our negligence * we do not perform Your commandments. * O spare our souls, we fervently appeal to You. For the Martyrs hey who witnessed for You, O Christ, endured many tortures, * and in heaven finally received the crown of glory, * that they might intercede on behalf of our souls.
Same Melody ho will keep my soul immune * to every harm and temptation; * and who will deliver me * from this death, and namely this sordid flesh of mine? * For when it feels at ease * then it tyrannizes * and it rises up against the soul. * And it afflicts again * when it is infirm. Woe to me the wretch! * And then, O Savior, I am not * able to endure its infirmity. * Hence, O my Creator, * I earnestly entreat, let not the dust * defeat the spirit which into me * You were pleased to insufflate.29
Glory, both now. Theotokion. ou are a turning for the better * for those in trouble and deliverance of the sick, * O Virgin Theotokos. * Save your city and your flock, * since you are the peace of the embattled, * tranquil calm of those in agitation, * and the believers only patronage.
29
Insufflate = to blow into.
30
32
Mode Pl. II TUESDAY VESPERS

Stichera to the Lord She who was forsaken od, who wish all men to be saved, I pray You, * look down and behold now my supplication, * and do not reject my tears as being ineffective. * Who ever came to You beseeching * and was not saved directly? * Who ever cried to You with fervor * and was not heard directly? * For indeed by all who truly seek You, * O Sovereign Master, You are found to be One quick to save, * because of Your great mercy, O Lord. Aposticha of the Cross our Cross, O Lord, is life and assistance to Your people. * And trusting in it, * we extol You our God who in the flesh was crucified. * Have mercy on us. our Cross, O Lord, has opened Paradise unto the human race. * And redeemed from corruption, * we extol You our God who in the flesh was crucified. * Have mercy on us. For the Martyrs he prize-winning Martyrs and citizens of heaven * contended on earth and endured many tortures. * By their intercessions and prayers, O Lord, preserve us all. Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. O Christ, as it was written31 Christ, when she who gave You birth * beheld You hanging on the Cross, * she cried loudly: * O my Son, what is this * strange mystery I witness? * How is it that You die now, * crucified in the flesh, O Giver of life?
Y Y T
Same Melody my soul, lament now before your exit. * Fall down in repentance before your Maker, * and offer up tears to Him wholeheartedly, and cry out * to the Messiah with compunction: * O Word, I sinned against You. * Though I have greatly sinned, accept me. * Abhor me not intensely. * Righteous Judge, I pray do not despise me, * nor send me off to the inferno, O forbearing One, * because of Your great mercy, O Lord.
For the Theotokos When the saints deposited he wedding has been prepared * of the celestial Bridegroom. * The heralds are calling out. * Why delay you willfully, O bedarkened soul? * All your garments indeed * are filthy and soiled * by a lifestyle of debauchery. * And so, O wretched one, * how will you get in? Come, before the end, * wholeheartedly fall down before * Ever-virgin Mary and cry to her: * Purge me with the hyssop, * O pure one, of your prayers, and make me clean. * And deem me fit for the bridal hall, * so that I may magnify you.
WEDNESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Apostles When the saints deposited he Apostles of the Lord, * receiving heavenly power * of the Paraclete, indeed * put the close arrays of the enemy to flight. * They rebuked emperors, * and put wise men to shame. * Being common and illiterate, * naked and weaponless, * they drew up their ranks evangelically. * They uttered words inspired by grace * whereby they performed their prodigious deeds. * Therefore as they render * the nations all obedient to Christ, *
31
33
Mode Pl. II
they intercede now with confidence * on behalf of our souls. Same Melody y entire earthly life, * O Lord, I spent in indifference. * I have come unto the end * destitute of any fruit, * worthless that I am, * taking now to the grave * only the onerous * heavy burdens of my wicked deeds. * Good One, dispel them all, * through a tilt of mercy, O Friend of man; * and grant compunction unto me * and sincere conversion that saves a man, * through the intercessions * which You, O God, accept from Your divine * Apostles, whom with Your Mother I * bring to You to intercede. For the Martyrs our Cross, O Lord, became For the Martyrs * an invincible weapon. * For they saw the death awaiting them * and yet foresaw the life to come, * and thus by their hope in You they were strengthened. * Through their supplications, have mercy on us.
Y
O
Glory, both now. Theotokion. Theotokos, you are the true vine * that produced the fruit of life. * Lady, we fervently entreat you to intercede * along with the Apostles, * that our souls be treated mercifully.
For Saint Nicholas O Christ, as it was written aint Nicholas, take pity on me * who fall to you, O blessed one, * I entreat you; * and illuminate the eyes * of my soul, O wise father, * so that I may distinctly * behold the sympathetic Giver of light.
THURSDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross O Christ, as it was written h, how did You my God submit * to slaughter and to death on a cross * for the sake of * humankind, O merciful, * piteous and humane One? * We therefore glorify You * for Your compassion, O forbearing Lord.
O O
Aposticha of the Apostles Christ, when Your Disciples once * aboard a boat were tossed by a storm, * then they shouted: * Save us, Teacher, we are perishing. * And now we likewise cry out: * We pray You, O humane One * and our Savior, rescue us from our distress.
t times, the Apostles, O Lord, * with nets seized the depth of the sea, * while at others, with dogmas they seized * the height of the Kingdom. * By their trade they searched the incomprehensible deep. * And by faith they reached Your uncircumscribable bosom. * And they proclaimed Your timeless Son to the world. * Through their intercessions and those of all the Saints, * have mercy on us.
Same Melody Shepherd, You ascended the Cross * and, stretching out Your hands, cried out: * Come to me and * be enlightened, mortal men * bedarkened by delusion; * for I am Light. O glory * to You the only Bestower of light. For the Theotokos She who was forsaken o, I am condemned by my sins, O Lady, * and by my iniquities am defiled; * and I have displayed contempt for Gods divine commandments. * Cast me not away from your presence, * O pure one, I beseech you. * You are my hope and my protectress, * allholy Theotokos. * Hence I beg of you to be
34
Mode Pl. II
attentive * to my entreaties and to cleanse me from all stain of sin, * in your great mercy, O Mother of God. Aposticha of the Cross our Cross, O Lord, is life and assistance to Your people. * And trusting in it, * we extol You our God who in the flesh was crucified. * Have mercy on us. and a contrite heart * humbly requesting Your mercy, O Lord. Same Melody ho would not lament me who from my lack of * self-control have broken the Lords commandment; * for me who instead of Paradise inhabit Hades? * Food sweet to me in its appearance * has turned into bitterness. * Unto Your glory and to Angels * have I become a stranger. * Sympathetic God, as I repent now * accept me, since You are humane and very merciful, * because of Your great mercy, O Lord.
Y Y Y
O
our Cross, O Lord, has opened Paradise unto the human race. * And redeemed from corruption, * we extol You our God who in the flesh was crucified. * Have mercy on us. For the Martyrs our Martyrs did not renounce You, O Lord, * nor did they deviate from Your commandments. * Through their intercessions, have mercy on us. Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. O Christ, as it was written Christ, when You were crucified, * Your Virgin Mother stood along * with the virgin * Disciple near the Cross, * and cried aloud lamenting: * Alas! How do You suffer * this Passion, being the dispassion of all?
For the Martyrs he prize-winning Martyrs and citizens of heaven * contended on earth and endured many tortures. * By their intercessions and prayers, O Lord, preserve us all.
FRIDAY VESPERS
Stichera She who was forsaken ave me from perdition which has been laid up. * O most righteous Judge, rescue me the convict * from the everlasting fire; O Master, I beseech You. * Make me impervious to surgings * against me, O Word of God. * Misrable that I am, I shudder * when I stop and consider * the multitude of my offenses, * and I fall down to You with tears
Glory, both now. Theotokion. ho would not pronounce you blest, O all-holy Virgin? Who would not sing praises of your childbirth without travail? For He who timelessly shone forth from the Father, the Only-begotten Son, did himself come forth from you the pure one, having ineffably taken flesh. As He was God by nature, He likewise by nature for us became man. He was not thus divided into two persons, but now is rather known in two natures without confusion. To Him pray fervently, O august and all-blessed Maid, that His mercy come upon our souls.
Aposticha of the Martyrs our Martyrs did not renounce You, O Lord, * nor did they deviate from Your commandments. * Through their intercessions, have mercy on us.
35
Mode Pl. II
For the Dead
our creative command was my beginning and real existence. * For wishing to construct me as a living creature * from both invisible and visible natures, * from earth You fashioned my body, * and You gave me a soul through Your divine and vivifying insufflation. * Therefore, O Savior, repose Your servants * in the land of the living where the righteous dwell.
through him entered death * which devoured man and with him the entire species. * But the Master came and threw down the dragon * and gave us resurrection. * So to Him let us cry aloud: * O Savior, be merciful, * and with the righteous repose * those whom You have taken unto yourself. Glory, both now. Theotokion. O Christ, as it was written Christ, at the entreaties of her * who bore You, and of all the Saints, * of your Martyrs, * your Apostles, Hierarchs, * monastic Saints and Prophets, * together with the Righteous, * repose Your servants who have fallen asleep.
he tasting of the tree of old * became the cause of pain unto Adam in Eden * when the serpent discharged his poison. * For
36
A Small Octoechos
Weekday Vespers Grave Mode
SUNDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction Judas today is sleeplessly watching32 ift up your eyes, my soul, and intently * gaze upon Gods economy * and His loving kindness; how bowing the heavens * He came down to earth, thereby to elevate you * from the wretched state of your enslavement to the passions, * and to set you firmly on the rock of belief in Him. * Indeed, an awesome wonder! * Glory to Your selfemptying, O Lover of man.
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Aposticha of Compunction ike the prodigal son, I have returned, loving Father. * As one of Your hired hands accept me who fall down to You, * and have mercy on me. ike the man who fell among the robbers and was wounded, * because of my own sins, I have also fallen, * and my soul has likewise been wounded. * In whom shall I, who am at fault, take refuge, if not in You * the compassionate Physician of our souls? * O God, pour on me the oil of Your great mercy. For the Martyrs lory to You, O Christ our God, * the pride of the Apostles, * the joy of the Martyrs * whose proclamation was * the consubstantial Trinity.
Same Melody omnipotent Lord, inasmuch as * we have set every hope on You, * fervently we supplicate You to redeem us * from all kinds of perils and passions and turmoil, * so that we may live out the remainder of our life in peace, * and, when having lived a life of purity, we might find * You, our Master, merciful * and lenient on the day of reckoning.
For the Angels The tree of life33 ou have created the Angels * flames of fire, O Christ, * thus indicating to us their great fervor; * again, to mark their swiftness, You made them spirits. * O omnipotent Lord, Glory to You.
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Glory, both now. Theotokion. Judas today is sleeplessly watching ou have surpassed the orders of Angels, * in that you incarnated God. * But I have exceeded all others in sinning. * Woe to me, for I am fearful and tremble. * Therefore, I in no way even dare now to petition you. * Hence, O Sovereign Lady who gave birth to God, despise me not, * but hasten and save me, while * directing me on the straight and narrow way.
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Grave Mode MONDAY VESPERS

Stichera of Compunction Judas today is sleeplessly watching erciful Lord and God of compassion, * for the purposes known to You, * grant me to possess in my heart the fear of You; * grant me that with all of my soul I may love You; * grant me to abominate the actions of the evil one; * and I pray you, grant me to execute Your saving will. * For You are our God, indeed, * who commanded: Ask and then you shall receive.
ike the man who fell among the robbers and was wounded, * because of my own sins, I have also fallen, * and my soul has likewise been wounded. * In whom shall I, who am at fault, take refuge, if not in You * the compassionate Physician of our souls? * O God, pour on me the oil of Your great mercy. For the Martyrs holy Martyrs * who competed well and received the laurels, * fervently entreat the Lord * that our souls be dealt with mercifully.
Same Melody am the laughingstock of the demons, * the disgrace of my fellow men, * lament of the Righteous, the grief of the Angels, * pollution of the air, the earth and the waters, * for I have defiled my body, and now I have stained my soul. * Through demented acts, I have come to be a foe of God. * Woe to me. O Lord, I have sinned * against You. O pardon me, for I have sinned.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. No longer are we barred35 ring peace into our lives, O merciful Master, * through the intercessions of the Theotokos. * Glory to You, O Lord.
TUESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross No longer are we barred udeans had You nailed to a tree, O Master. * You were able thus by a tree to stay death. * Glory to You, O Lord.
For the Forerunner When you had wisely despised34 culmination of Prophets * and the seal of the symbolic law, * you who are greater in holiness than all men born on earth, * O Forerunner and divine herald of the coming of Christ: * as the teacher of repentance and the model of chastity, * out of every necessity deliver us your servants, * redeeming us from perplexing predicaments.
Same Melody ou willingly endured being struck, O Master, * that You might deliver mankind from bondage. * Glory to You, O Lord.
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Aposticha of Compunction ike the prodigal son, I have returned, loving Father. * As one of Your hired hands accept me who fall down to You, * and have mercy on me.
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For the Theotokos Same Melody pure one, you extinguished the sorrow of Eve, * for unto the joy of the world you gave birth. * Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.
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Grave Mode
Aposticha of the Cross Original Melody36 o longer are we barred from the tree of life, * for we have the hope of Your Cross, O Master. * Glory to You, O Lord.
WEDNESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Apostles No longer are we barred he sound of Your divine and holy Apostles * unto all the ends of the earth has gone forth. * Glory to You, O Lord. Same Melody ince you have gained the citizenship in heaven, * teach me to set my mind on the things of heaven, * and to utter the divine wills of God.
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Same Melody uspended on the Cross, O immortal Master, * You triumphed over the snares of the devil. * Glory to You, O Lord. For the Martyrs Original Melody37 hen you had wisely despised everything on earth, * O holy martyr Saints, * and had courageously acknowledged Christ in the stadium, * in return for the tortures you received your rewards from Him. * Now that you have acquired access to God the omnipotent, * we beseech you most fervently * to entreat Him in earnest * to save the souls of us sinners who flee to you.
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To Saint Nicholas Same Melody Nicholas the wise Hierarch, deliver * your supplicants from plagues and from tribulations, * earthquakes and necessity.
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Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. Judas today is sleeplessly watching ruly have you endured death, O Logos, * for indeed You are crucified. * Thus the Virgin Mother cried out and lamented, * with the most beloved and renowned Theologian. * O Christ, who for us endured the Passion and who mortified * death by death, now mortify my passions, and make of me * a participant in Your divine life, * and save me through Your Mothers prayers.
Aposticha of the Apostles glorious Apostles, the pillars of the Churches, * the preachers of the truth, and brightly shining torches: * with the fire of the Spirit you burned all delusion, * and enlightened the human race. * Therefore we beseech you, * pray unto our Savior and God, * that He bring peace into the world, and that He save our souls. Apostles of Christ, you are the laborers of the Savior. * For bearing on your shoulders the Cross as a plowshare, * you cleared the arid earth of the delusion of the idols, * and sowed the word of the Faith. * And therefore you are rightly honored, * O holy Apostles of Christ. For the Martyrs world-famous Martyrs, the spiritual livestock, * rational whole burnt offerings, * and sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God: * the earth did not conceal you, * but heaven received you, * and thus you share the fellow-
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Grave Mode
ship of the Angels. * We beseech you, pray with them unto our Savior and God, * that He bring peace into the world, and that He save our souls. Glory, both now. Theotokion. edeem us, O Theotokos, from the sins that constrain us; * for we the faithful have no other hope except for you * and the God who was born of you. Same Melody uspended on the Cross, O immortal Master, * You triumphed over the snares of the devil. * Glory to You, O Lord.
For the Martyrs lory to You, O Christ our God, * the pride of the Apostles, * the joy of the Martyrs * whose proclamation was * the consubstantial Trinity.
THURSDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross No longer are we barred n order to make man God, O gracious Master, * You became a mortal and were crucified. * Glory to Your glory, O Lord.
Same Melody hen You were on the Cross, then the sun was darkened, * and creation trembled and shouted: Glory * unto You, O merciful Lord.
Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. Judas today is sleeplessly watching ierced am I by the sword of my sorrow * as I see You upon the Cross, * You who have established the earth on the waters, * and stretched out the heaven as it were a curtain. * For I see You naked, and slaughtered, and hanging there, * O beloved Son of mine. And now I prefer to die. * Stand aghast and shudder, O earth! * Thus the all-pure Lady uttered as she wept.
FRIDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Martyrs holy Martyrs, * who competed well and received the laurels, * fervently entreat the Lord * that our souls be dealt with mercifully.
For the Theotokos Judas today is sleeplessly watching end me your kindly ear as I pray now * unto you, O all-blameless one, * and do not reject me from before your presence, * neither send me far away from your assistance. * For, behold, the wily one with guile contrives to ruin me, * and with the unreasonable passions he stirs my heart. * Hence, I pray you, keep me safe * and wholly untouched by his malevolence.
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Aposticha of the Cross Original Melody o longer are we barred from the tree of life, * for we have the hope of Your Cross, O Master. * Glory to You, O Lord.
world-famous Martyrs, the spiritual livestock, * rational whole burnt offerings, * and sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God: * the earth did not conceal you, * but heaven received you, * and thus you share the fellowship of the Angels. * We beseech you, pray with them unto our Savior and God * that He bring peace into the world, and that He save our souls.
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Grave Mode
Of Compunction No longer are we barred hen You return, O Savior, to judge the whole world, * though I have committed most shameful actions, * put me not to shame, I pray. For the Dead
Glory, both now. Theotokion. ou were known to be a Mother passing nature, O Theotokos, and still you remained a Virgin, in a way passing speech and thought. And no language is capable of explaining the wonder of your childbirth. O pure Maid, your conception was paradoxical; hence the manner of your pregnancy is also incomprehensible. For whenever God so wills, natures order is overridden. Therefore acknowledging you as the Mother of God, to you we all intently pray: Intercede for the salvation of our souls.
n Your image and Your likeness * You fashioned man in the beginning, * and set him in Paradise to rule over Your creation. * But because of the devils envy he was deceived, * and he partook of the fruit, * thus becoming a transgressor of Your commandments. * Therefore You condemned him to return again to earth * whence he was taken, O Master, * and to entreat for repose.
No longer are we barred rant rest unto our brethren whom You have transferred * from the fleeting and who cry, O life-giving Savior: * Glory to You, O Lord.
Aposticha of the Martyrs lory to You, O Christ our God, * the pride of the Apostles, * the joy of the Martyrs * whose proclamation was * the consubstantial Trinity.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. aniel saw you as a divine holy mountain, * and the wise Isaiah proclaimed you as Gods gracious Mother * containing God incarnate, Who had fashioned Adam, * and Whom seeing in the flesh the Cherubim were startled * and sang praise and glory * with the never-silent voice of the thrice-holy hymn. * So entreat Him, O Lady, * beseeching Him to save our souls.
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A Small Octoechos
Weekday Vespers Plagal of the Fourth Mode
SUNDAY VESPERS
Stichera of Compunction What a paradoxal38 oe to you, O wretched soul of mine! * How greatly you will lament * at the judgment, when you recall * all your deeds, when righteous men * will be bidden to enter Gods * eternal Kingdom, while to eternal fire * you will be sentenced because of your misdeeds! * Sigh, weep, and run to Christ * the Redeemer, being on this side of death. * Wash away the multitude * of your iniquities.
and awesome Cherubim * present to You their hymns of praise. * And through their guardianship, O Savior, * and their intercessions, save our souls. Aposticha of Compunction nto You the King and Master, Angels * offer hymns of glory without ceasing. * But I, as the Publican, fall down to You and cry out: * O God, be gracious unto me and save me.
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Same Melody hile the time is yet available * to you in this present life, * O my soul, fervently repent, * and as long as you are here, * come and grieve for your sins with pain, * that you might find repose on the other side, * and be redeemed from eternal punishment. * Lord, Lord compassionate, * being good, account me worthy to become * a partaker in the lot * of the elect, I pray.
ince you are, O soul of mine, immortal, * let not the waves of life overwhelm you. * Be serious, and cry out unto your Benefactor: * O God, be gracious unto me and save me. For the Martyrs Martyrs of the Lord, you sanctify every locality, * and you heal every infirmity. * Therefore, now intercede * that our souls be delivered from the snares * of the enemy, we pray to you.
For the Angels Lord, even if You stood39 ord our God, all the Seraphim and Dominions, * as well as Thrones and Authorities, * and the Principalities extol You * with the Powers and Archangels too; * Angels
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Glory, both now. Theotokion. What a paradoxal nimate palace of God, rejoice. * Rejoice, O rational dove. * O rejoice, holy city of * your Creator. Battlement * of the faithful and refuge, rejoice; * and the protection of those who hope on you, * and their salvation, and their deliverance. * Ladder and bridge, rejoice, * that conveys to heaven the believers all. * Ever-blessed one, rejoice. * all-holy Lady, rejoice.
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Mode Pl. IV MONDAY VESPERS

Stichera of Compunction What a paradoxal hom do you resemble, O my soul, * as you are passing the days * of your life in great indolence, * heavy with the deepest sleep * of intractable lethargy? * Wretch that you are, now run and anticipate, * and fall down prostrate to Him who knows all things. * Cry out, and supplicate * that He give you time in order to repent * before you become the fuel * for the unquenchable fire. ince you are, O soul of mine, immortal, * let not the waves of life overwhelm you. * Be serious, and cry out unto your Benefactor: * O God, be gracious unto me, and save me. For the Martyrs Martyrs of the Lord, make supplication unto our God, * and request a multitude of tender mercies for our souls, * and the expiation, we beseech, * of our manifold iniquities.
Same Melody ou know the weakness of human flesh, * as our Creator and Lord; * as our Maker, You thoroughly * understand the sluggishness * of our nature, O Christ our God. * Abate, I pray You, the surging in my heart, * bestowing calmness upon my humble soul. * Grant me correction of * my unseemly deeds, and from eternal fire * rescue me, for only You * are most compassionate.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. our shelter, O Virgin Theotokos, * is for us a spiritual clinic; * for therein taking refuge, we are freed * from disorders that affect the soul.
TUESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross What a paradoxal most benevolent Word of God * who were suspended for us * on the Cross as a criminal, * snatch us from the future fire, * and the frightening sentence we pray; * also exempt us from every penalty, * having the Mother of God imploring You. * For, Lover of mankind, * every one of us, on any given day, * angers You with sinful thoughts, * O most benevolent Christ.
For the Forerunner Same Melody ever abandon your votary;40 * never reject me, I pray, * so that I may extol and praise, * venerate and glorify, * and devotedly celebrate * your bright, divine name, synonymous with grace, * O holy Prophet, Forerunner, Baptist John. * Under the wings of your * venerable intercessions evermore * shelter me, and guard me from * evils of every kind.
Aposticha of Compunction nto You the King and Master, Angels * offer hymns of glory without ceasing. * But I, as the Publican, fall down to You and cry out: * O God, be gracious unto me, and save me.
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Votary = devoted admirer.
Same Melody eeing You, the sun was horrified, * as it beheld You, O Lord, * to be stretched out upon the Cross * voluntarily. And earth * shook and also the stones split apart. * The tombs in turn also opened out of fear. * And all the heavenly Powers stood in awe. * Then, as the Virgin watched * You, O Jesus, hanging there upon the Cross, * she cried out and said: Alas! * What is this sight I see?
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Mode Pl. IV
For the Theotokos Same Melody ady and the Mother of our God, * rejoice, O singular hope * and support of the human race; * sanctuary, O rejoice; * sacred lampstand of light, rejoice; * glittering palace of God the King, rejoice; * rejoice, O lantern, bearing the holy light; * rejoice, O undefiled * glory of virginity; again rejoice, * fount that gushes healings for * all those who come to you.
WEDNESDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Apostles Lord, even if You stood ord our God, You illuminated the Apostles * with the brightness of the Paraclete, * and set them as luminaries brightly * illuminating the entire world * with the intelligible light, * O Master, of the knowledge of You; * and for this reason do we worship * Your immeasrable benevolence. Same Melody ord our God, by the Apostles intercessions, * setting a wall round about Your flock, * You preserve it unagitated * by disturbances from enemies; * for with Your own precious blood, * O Savior, having ransomed it, * being compassionate, You freed it * from its bondage to the hostile foe. For Saint Nicholas Same Melody ord our God, hearing the divine supplications * which are at all times acceptable * to You, of the Hierarch, deliver * us Your servants from adversities, * perils and hardships and all * calamities, O Lover of man; * for we faithfully worship * Your ineffable omnipotence. Aposticha of the Apostles Same Melody ord our God, while on earth, the holy Apostles * sincerely longing to be with You, * counted all other things as rubbish * so that You alone they might obtain; * and for the love of You they gave * their bodies up to martyrdom. * And therefore now enjoying glory, * they intercede with You on behalf of our souls.
Aposticha of the Cross ou were lifted on the Cross, O Christ our God, * and You saved the human race; * therefore, we glorify Your sufferings.
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ou were nailed upon the Cross, O Christ our God, * and You opened the gates of Paradise. * You, our Redeemer, do we glorify. For the Martyrs Original Melody41 our martyr Saints, O Lord, having become oblivious to life's endeavors * even disdaining the tormenting tortures all for the life which is to come, * came to be regarded its inheritors. * Therefore they exult with the angelic hosts. * Bestow upon Your people great mercy, at the fervent appeals of these Your Saints. Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. Same Melody amenting as she watched You the only long-suffering and gentle Master * being attached with nails unto the Cross, * Your Mother poured out a flood of tears. * And greatly amazed by Your superlative * charity and superhuman sympathy, * she lauded Your dominion and Your omnipotence.
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Mode Pl. IV
Same Melody ord our God, You have caused the holy Apostles * memry on earth to be magnified; * and when we assemble together * to observe it, we all sing Your praise; * for You provide us through them * with healing of infirmities, * and at their supplications * You give peace and great mercy unto the world.
THURSDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Cross Your Angel who proclaimed43 hat lawless people sentenced You, Who were the Lord and the Creator * of all the world, to be crucified * in the midst of the outlaws, O my Jesus. * And the earth, when it saw the effrontery, * altogether shook with fear, * thus witnessing, O Master, * that You were the Maker of all. Same Melody rom the curse of the law and from our sins are we all now delivered, * for the Lord and giver of the Law * was lifted up upon the Cross we now honor. * He pours out a blessing that never abates, * and mercy and His grace, * unto us who laud Him, * extolling His sufferings. For the Theotokos What a paradoxal ady Theotokos, O rejoice; * scepter of David, rejoice; * O celestial gate, rejoice; * unconsumed bush, rejoice; * mountain shady and dense, rejoice; * rejoice, O lampstand; rejoice, O golden urn; * rejoice, O palace; rejoice, all-blameless one; * rejoice, immaculate * Mother of our God; rejoice, O tongs; rejoice, * holy table; and the hope * of all the world, rejoice! Aposticha of the Cross ou were lifted on the Cross, O Christ our God, * and You saved the human race; * therefore, we glorify Your sufferings. ou were nailed upon the Cross, O Christ our God, * and You opened the gates of Paradise. * You, our Redeemer, do we glorify.
For the Martyrs f there be virtue and if there be praise, * it is fitting for the Martyrs; * for they bowed their necks to the broadsword * for You who bowed the heavens and descended. * They spilled their blood for You who emptied yourself and took the form of a servant; * and they let themselves be humbled, even unto death, * in imitation of Your poverty. * So, according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, * through their prayers, O God, have mercy on us.
Glory, both now. Theotokion. What are we to call you42 hey who had become worthy to behold * God in body did proclaim you as a pure and virgin Bride * who was worthy of the Father and of His Divinity, * and called you, the engenderer of God the Word, * O Damsel, and the Holy Spirits dwelling place; * because, indeed, all the fullness of * the Godhead bodily dwelt in you, * while you, yourself, * most abundantly were full of grace.
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Mode Pl. IV
For the Martyrs Martyrs of the Lord, you sanctify every locality, * and you heal every infirmity. * Therefore, now intercede * that our souls be delivered from the snares * of the enemy, we pray to you. mercies, * through their prayers, O God, have mercy on us. Of Compunction What a paradoxal have become like the barren tree, * wearing as valueless leaves * a demeanor of holiness; * and I am afraid, O Lord, * lest You chop me and send me away * to inextinguishable eternal fire. * But grant me, rather, a season to repent, * so that I may bring forth * unto You the good fruits of virtuous deeds, * and so that I might attain * unto Your heavenly realm. Glory, both now. Theotokion. he King of heaven, out of love for mankind, appeared on earth and lived among men. He is one Son, twofold in nature but not in hypostasis, for He took on flesh from a pure Virgin and came forth from her with that which He had assumed. Therefore we confess Christ our God, truly proclaiming that He is one and the same, perfect God and perfect man. Intently pray to Him, O unwedded Mother, to have mercy on our souls. Aposticha For the Martyrs Martyrs of the Lord, you sanctify every locality, * and you heal every infirmity. * Therefore, now intercede * that our souls be delivered from the snares * of the enemy, we pray to you.
Glory, both now. Stavrotheotokion. Your martyr Saints, O Lord s she beheld You crucified and being put to death, the Theotokos * cried out: Alas for me! O sweetest Son, * how can You endure the awful pains? * Your lance is piercing through my own heart as well, * and Your Passion is setting my reins on fire. * But even so, I laud You, * for willingly You suffer, to save the human race.
FRIDAY VESPERS
Stichera of the Martyrs Original Melody44 our martyr Saints, O Lord, having become oblivious to life's endeavors * even disdaining the tormenting tortures all for the life which is to come, * came to be regarded its inheritors. * Therefore they exult with the angelic hosts. * Bestow upon Your people great mercy, at the fervent appeals of these Your Saints.
f there be virtue and if there be praise, * it is fitting for the Martyrs; * for they bowed their necks to the broadsword * for You who bowed the heavens and descended. * They spilled their blood for You who emptied yourself and took the form of a servant; * and they let themselves be humbled, even unto death, * in imitation of Your poverty. * So, according to the multitude of Your tender
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For the Dead

mourn and lament when I consider death * and see lying in the tombs the beauty made for us in the image of God * become unsightly, inglorious, and bereft of complexion. * Oh, the wonder! Why has this mystery about us occurred? * How have we been handed over to decay? * How have we been
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Mode Pl. IV
coupled with death? * Indeed, as it is written, at the order of God, * Who provides repose for those who have passed away.
our death, O Lord, gave rise to immortality; * for if You had not been consigned to the tomb, * then Paradise would not have been opened. * Therefore grant repose to the departed, in Your love for man. Glory, both now. Theotokion. holy Virgin, the gate of the Logos, * and the Mother of our God, * beseech Him that we be saved.
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Weekday Vespers

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Weekday Vespers

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A Small Octoechos

Copyright 2003 by F. Seraphim Dedes

All rights reserved.

Fr. Seraphim Dedes St. Gregory Palamas Monastery September 2000

For the Angels Same Melody

Mode One MONDAY VESPERS

Paraclete = Holy Spirit.

Mode One FRIDAY VESPERS

God is wondrous in His saints.

For the Dead

Mode Two MONDAY VESPERS

God is wondrous in His saints.

Mode Three MONDAY VESPERS

Mode Three FRIDAY VESPERS

Importune = to request urgently.

Suppliant = an alternative form of supplicant.

Ascendancy = controlling influence.

Desiccate = to dry up.

Forebear = ancestor, forefather.

God is wondrous in His saints.

Panoply = a full suit of armor. Translate = to transfer, convey.

For the Dead

Insufflate = to blow into.

Mode Pl. II TUESDAY VESPERS

Grave Mode MONDAY VESPERS

Mode Pl. IV MONDAY VESPERS

Votary = devoted admirer.

For the Dead

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