GREAT VESPERS
Kathisma Reading
“Blessed is the man…” is sung.
At Psalm 140
In Tone 2
- Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord;* O Lord, hear my voice!
Without leaving the Father’s bosom, O Christ* You did appear on earth in the flesh.* In Your compassion You accepted the passion and death* to rise again on the third day* You came through closed doors as the Almighty One.* Thomas rejoiced when he felt Your divine side* and glorified You as Lord and Creator.
- Let Your ears be attentive* to the voice of my prayer.
You were nailed upon the cross and Your side was pierced by a lance;* You tasted gall, O Christ, and endured death;* and You were placed in the tomb as one dead.* But, as God, You destroyed the bonds of Hades,* resurrecting those dead from all ages.* Therefore, You appeared to Your disciples;* by Your wounds You confirmed Your Resurrection.
- If You mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand?* But with You forgiveness is that You may be revered.
The Passover is our present feast:* a mystical Passover, the Passover of God;* a Passover of salvation,* a Passover leading us to immortal life;* this Passover drives all sorrow away.* This Passover is the disciples’ gift of joy.* Therefore, Thomas cried:* You are the Lord and my God,* who has conquered the kingdom of Hades.
In Tone 4
- I have waited for You as You have commanded; my soul patiently relies on Your promise,* for it has trusted in the Lord.
Having gathered together today,* we praise you, O George, as a valiant martyr.* You kept the faith and completed the course* and received from God the crown of victory.* Entreat Him to deliver from tribulations and corruption* those who faithfully observe your precious memory.
- From the morning watch until night* let Israel trust in the Lord.
Drawing hope from your firmness of mind, O glorious one,* you willingly persevered to martyrdom like a lion.* Scorning the body as something that would wither,* you were wisely concerned with your incorruptible soul.* Covered with wounds by various forms of torture, O George,* like gold you were purified sevenfold.
- For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him there is plentiful redemption;* and He shall redeem Israel from all its iniquities.
You suffered martyrdom in behalf of the Saviour, O glorious one,* by a death similar to his voluntary death.* You reign gloriously with Him,* clothed with the resplendent purple robes of your blood,* and you are adorned with the sceptre of your sufferings.* O great-martyr George,* you are resplendent in your crown of victory* throughout all generations.
- Praise the Lord, all the nations;* proclaim His glory, all you people.
With faith as your armour and with grace as your shield,* with the cross as your spear, you waged war.* You were invincible in facing the foes, O George.* Like a mighty warrior, you destroyed the camps of the demons.* Now you are dancing joyfully with the angels.* Indeed you defend, sanctify, and save the faithful who invoke you.
- Strong is the love of the Lord for us;* eternally will His truth endure.
We recognize you as a very bright star,* a sun shining in the firmament of the heavens,* a very precious pearl sparkling more than a gem.* O George the conqueror, we glorify you* as a son of the day and a courageous martyr.* We commemorate you as a defender of the faithful in tribulations.
In Tone 6
Glory…
You were true to your name, O warrior George,* for you took the cross of Christ upon your shoulders.* You ploughed well the land made barren by the deceits of the devil;* you rooted out the weeds of idol worship* arid planted the vine of the true faith.* Therefore, your healing overflows to the faithful throughout the whole world,* and you have shown yourself to be the righteous gardener of the Trinity.* Pray for peace in the world and salvation for our souls.
In Tone 4
Now…
In Tone 4
O marvellous wonder!* The lack of faith gave birth to a certainty of faith;* for Thomas said: Unless I see, I will not believe!* Therefore, when he touched Your side,* he acknowledged that You were the Incarnate Son of God,* and he knew that You truly suffered in the flesh;* and thus he proclaimed Your resurrection from the dead, saying:* My Lord and my God, glory to You!
Readings
(1) Isaiah 43:9-14; (2) Wisdom 3:1-9; (3) Wisdom 4:7-15
Lytia
In Tone 1
Because of his glorious suffering,* the brilliant warrior George rejoices with the powers above.* At this time we also rejoice with them.* He has inspired the faithful on earth* to observe the feast and to celebrate with them.* Because of that he was considered a servant of Christ.* Let us, therefore, worthily venerate him * who prays unceasingly to the God of all to grant us great mercy.
You produced the best by valiant sufferings * and offered up your fruitful toils, O blessed martyr George.* Strengthening your yearning by faith and scorning fear by hope,* you revealed your love for heaven.* You showed courage to us.* By your fervent prayers ask for peace for our souls,* the cleansing of our sins,* and great mercy for us.
In Tone 4
Come, O assembly of the faithful.* Come, let us celebrate the feast.* Today is manifested the glorious memory of George the martyr.* Sparkling with virtues, he is invisibly illuminating our hearts.* Therefore, let us cry out with one mind:* Rejoice, O warrior of Christ the great king!* Rejoice, O most splendid and rich one!* O most blessed one, in our behalf, implore Christ our God, the Master of all,* that we may be preserved from temptations of the Evil One* and that our souls may be saved.
In Tone 5, Glory… Now…
Come, let us be filled with delight.* Spring has come and brought forth the Resurrection of Christ.* Come, let us be joyful.* The commemoration of the martyr has arrived and illumines the faithful.* Therefore, come, O lovers of feasts;* let us celebrate that mystery.* For, as a good soldier, he courageously overcame and confounded the torturers.* He was an imitator of the passion of Christ the Saviour.* He did not spare his earthen vessel,* but exposed it naked, allowing it to suffer tortures.* Let us cry out to him:* O Martyr, pray that our souls may be saved.
Aposticha
In Tone 4
With psalms and hymns* the people are praising your glorious memory, O George;* for you shone forth as a beautiful bearer of the light,* and you are radiant with grace.* Therefore, the angelic ranks now dance with joy.* The martyrs and apostles are praising the struggles* of the suffering ones, O Martyr.* They are exalting the Saviour, Christ our God, who glorified you.* Implore Him to save and illumine our souls.
The just will flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar of Lebanon.
You have put on the shield of Christ, O George,* and you were not found by those who were hunting you.* Inflamed with the fire of Christ,* you scoffed at the barbarity of the meaningless idols.* You exclaimed to Christ, to the warrior king, and to the transgressors:* Neither wild beasts nor wheels of torture,* neither fire nor sword shall ever separate me from the love of Christ my God.* Implore Him now to save and enlighten our souls.
Planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courtyard of our God.
O crown-bearer George,* you scorned the various instruments of torture and the terrifying weapons.* Therefore, we crown your resplendent memory with flowers of hymns,* and we kiss your precious relics with faith. * Since you stand before the Master’s throne,* pray unceasingly that He save and enlighten our souls.
In Tone 4, Glory…
Let us spiritually praise the great-martyr George,* the living steel of endurance.* He was tried by fire and branding irons* and sharp instruments of torture for the sake of Christ.* These various tortures ravaged the body which is perishable by nature;* but love conquered nature,* persuading the beloved to make his way through death to Christ our God,* the Saviour of our souls.
In Tone 4
Now…
O marvellous wonder!* For grass has touched the fire and was not burned.* Thomas placed his hand into the fiery side of the Saviour,* and he was not consumed by touching Him.* Truly, his soul was changed from doubt to faith,* and he exclaimed from the depth of his spirit:* You are my Master and my God who arose from the dead.* O Lord, glory to You!
Troparia
In Tone 4
O victorious great-martyr George,* as a liberator of captives and helper of the poor,* physician of the sick,* and champion of kings, entreat Christ God to save our souls. (2)
In Tone 1
Hail, Mother of God, Virgin Mary full of grace! The Lord is with you. * Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. * For you have borne Christ, the Saviour and Deliverer of our souls.
GREAT MATINS
Sessional Hymn I, Tone 1
The Life of all was nailed to the Cross,* the immortal Lord was numbered among the dead.* He is our Saviour who rose on the third day,* raising Adam from corruption.* The heavenly powers cry aloud to You, O Giver of Life:* Glory to Your Resurrection!* Glory to your condescension,* O Lover of mankind!
Their span extends through all the earth, their words to the utmost bounds of the world.
O wise Apostles who have caught the whole world in your net,* you have received the love of God.* Intercede for us who now sing:* O Lord, save Your Christian people and preserve us from all danger* through the prayers of Your apostles.
God is to be feared in His holy place. He is the Lord, the God of Israel.
Let us all entreat the martyrs of Christ* who intercede for our salvation.* Let us all go meet them in faith* that we may find grace and healing through these guardians of the faith* for they dispel the demons.
Glory… Now…
O Virgin, the prophets clearly announced you as the Mother of God,* and the divine apostles have proclaimed you to the world as the object of our faith.* We, therefore, reverently venerate you and sing to you with one heart,* and we preserve for you the name of Theotokos.
Sessional Hymn II, Tone 1
Behold, the spring of grace has shone forth.* The Resurrection of Christ has glistened for all,* and at this time George the martyr is radiant with Him.* It is a very festive and light-bearing day.* Wrapped in splendour in a divine manner,* let us carry candles and celebrate with joy.
Glory…
Rejecting earthly warfare, O Martyr,* you yearned for the glory that is in heaven;* and you suffered pains and a wretched death. *Therefore, we celebrate your holy memory today* and offer praise to Christ, O most blessed George.
Now…
All of us beseech you, O Mother of God,* who truly manifested yourself to be a virgin after giving birth.* We lovingly hasten to your goodness;* for we sinners have you as an advocate, O most pure One,* and as our refuge in affliction.
Polyeleos
Exaltation
We extol you,* O great-martyr George,* and we honour your precious sufferings* which you endured for Christ.
- God is for us a refuge and strength, a helper close at hand, in time of distress.
- We went through fire and through water, but then You brought us relief.
- Many are the trials of the just one, but from them all the Lord will rescue him.
- The just will rejoice in the Lord and fly to Him for refuge. All the upright hearts will glory.
- Glory… Now…
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to You, O God! (3)
Sessional Hymn
In Tone 3
Inflamed with a burning love for the Master, you destroyed the storehouse of deceit,* and with strength and wisdom you professed Christ at the trial.* O all-blessed conqueror and most glorious martyr George,* implore Christ to grant great mercy to us.
In Tone 4
Glory…
You properly planted the seeds of the commandments of God.* You devoutly distributed all your riches to the poor.* In place of them you acquired the glory of Christ, O most glorious one.* Then, full of hope and through lengthy sufferings,* you struggled along the course.* You shared in the passion and the resurrection* of the One who is beyond all suffering.* Now that you dwell with Him in the kingdom, pray for us.
Now…
O Virgin Mother of God,* we acknowledge that the Word of the Father, Christ our God,* was incarnate of you,* the only-pure one and the only-blessed one.* Therefore, we sing to you a hymn of praise, and we exalt you.
Gradual Hymn, Tone 4, Antiphon I
Prokeimenon, Tone 4
The just will flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar of Lebanon.
- Planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God!
Gospel
Luke 12:2-7
Having Beheld the Resurrection
After Psalm 50
Glory…
Through the intercession of the holy apostles, O Merciful One, remit our many sins.
Now…
Through the intercession of the Mother of God, O Merciful One, remit our many sins.
In Tone 6
Have mercy on me, God, in your kindness. In your compassion blot out my offense.
Today the whole world is illumined by the rays of the martyr.* The Church of Christ is adorned with flowers, O George,* and she cries out to you: O servant of Christ,* O fervent defender, do not cease to pray for us.
Canon
Ode 1
Irmos This is the day of the Resurrection!* Let us beam with festive joy!* O Pascha of the Lord,* Pascha from death*, for from death to life,* and to heaven from earth,* Christ our God has led us,* as we sing the victory hymn.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Your memorial is brighter than the sun, O George, warrior martyr of Christ: for it has brightly thrown the beaming rays of the sunlight of your miracles over the whole earth, O George, bearer of light.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O holy athlete, winner of countless victories in single combat, grant that we may sing of your sufferings and struggles, which you bravely endured in your fervent love for Christ, who was truly your joy and your life.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Skilled in hand, you seemed to·be a second David in battle: for just as David struggled against Goliath the giant, so you have prevailed against the weapons of the devil, the enemy, by the sling of your words, O crowned martyr George!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us!
O Lady, your wondrous childbearing is both ineffable and awesome: for from your breasts you have nourished the God of all perfection in the flesh: O wonder ever new! A mother nurses a child without having known man.
Irmos In the depths of old, the whole army of Pharaoh was done away with by Your invincible power. Now the Word made flesh has done away with the weighty burden of our sins. He is the Lord whom we praise, for He is gloriously triumphant.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
By your prayers and protection, keep watch over those who call upon you with ardent faith and love, O George, crowned martyr of Christ, as you stand by the awesome throne of the Lord of all, shining with light.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O George, whose name means “farmer,” you have been a noble field for God, ploughed by the acts of your martyrdom. Because of your wondrous deeds, the Judge of all struggles has harvested you as living wheat and placed you in His heavenly granary.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Blessed George, you voluntarily set out for war with patience and determination; you overthrew the savage battle line of the tyrants, and have become the intercessor for all who call upon you.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O glorious George, you have now received that blessed life hidden in Christ, for which you have fought, even to the shedding of your blood. Ask that those who sing your praises with faith may be saved from all adversity, O holy martyr!
Glory… Now…
O Mother of God, you have become a spiritual paradise, since you held in your womb the heavenly Word who holds all things in existence: the heavens, the earth and all that are in them. Therefore, pray for the salvation of those who sing Your praises.
Katavasia This is the day of the Resurrection!* Let us beam with festive joy!* O Pascha of the Lord,* Pascha from death*, for from death to life,* and to heaven from earth,* Christ our God has led us,* as we sing the victory hymn.
Ode 3
Irmos Come, let us partake of a new drink,* not one miraculously drawn from the barren rock,* but from the Fountain of incorruption,* springing up from the tomb of Christ.* In Him is our firm foundation of strength.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
The glorious memorial of George, the servant of Christ, gives us light at the same time as the Feast of the Resurrection of the Lord: O faithful, let us all keep joyful feast together!
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Rejoice, O heavens with the earth! Exult, all hills and valleys! The martyr George has rained down upon us streams of miracles from the heights of heaven.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
All the earth, all races of mankind, heaven and angelic hosts rejoice together: for George, the chief Captain of Christ, now makes his way from earth to heaven.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us!
Be glad, O Mary, and rejoice! For, if the Cross of your Son pierced your heart like sword, He has now risen from the tomb as from a bridal chamber!
Irmos As the desert blossomed with flowers, so did the barren Church of the Gentiles flourish and bear fruit at Your coming, O Lord. In this my heart exults!
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O glorious and blessed martyr, shining with the crown of victory, pray to our Redeemer and God to deliver from every affliction all the faithful who call upon you.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Enlightened by an abundance of radiant light from heaven, O blessed martyr George, you drive away dark despair and the shadows of the passions from all the faithful who praise you.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Strengthened by hope and protected by faith, you, O blessed George, were strong with the strength of Christ, and you have overthrown the error of idolatry.
Glory… Now…
All-holy Virgin, you have given birth in the flesh to Him who gives light to all the ends of the earth, He who without flesh is co-etemal with the Father, being with Him before all ages. Therefore, we honour your divine maternity.
Katavasia Come, let us partake of a new drink,* not one miraculously drawn from the barren rock,* but from the Fountain of incorruption,* springing up from the tomb of Christ.* In Him is our firm foundation of strength.
Sessional Hymn, Tone 8
Fighting like a man in the ways of holiness and overcoming the errors of godlessness, you have trampled underfoot the arrogance of the enemy. O holy martyr George, enkindled with zeal for God, you consumed the blasphemy of the tyrants. As a just reward, you received a crown and the power of healing. O victorious martyr George, intercede with Christ our God, to grant remission of their sins to those who keep your holy memorial with love.
Glory… Now…
O wise martyr George, by your sufferings, you have inherited heavenly riches, which you distribute to us on earth. Having the Cross as your breastplate, you put to shame the insolence of tyrants. Therefore, O martyr George, by your prayers you deal out gifts of healing and grace to those who petition you. Intercede with Christ our God to grant remission of their sins to those who keep your holy memorial with love.
Ode 4
Irmos Let Habakkuk, inspired by God,* stand with us on divine watch,* and show forth the shining angel who clearly proclaims:* Today is salvation for the world,* for Christ is risen* as the Almighty.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Behold, Empress Alexandra has surpassed the ancient Queen of the Sheba: for she has run to your wisdom in amazement. Therefore, she stands as queen at the right hand of God with you, O martyr George.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Not impressed by your words of reproof, the adversary ordered that you be struck on the mouth. When you were tortured, O George, you resounded like a cymbal that had been struck, proclaiming, “Christ is the only true God!”
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O true friend of Christ and the first among His martyrs, O lamp radiant shining light upon the whole world, brightest of stars, precious beacon, vigilant guardian of those who honour you: watch over us, O holy martyr George!
Most Holy Mother of God, save us!
O all-pure one, you have borne a Child, and have remained a virgin in giving birth, an awesome miracle, amazing and most wondrous. Carrying in your arms God, the King of all, you have nourished Christ, who nourishes the whole world.
Irmos You did not come forth from the virgin as an angel nor an ambassador, but as the Lord clothed in our flesh to save my whole being. Therefore, I cry aloud: “Glory to Your power, O Lord!”
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
We sing the praises of your struggles, O blessed and famous George; by them, you overthrew the veneration of idols and brought an end to the seduction of devils.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Quiet the tumult of temptations, dangers and every ill-treatment of the devils that falls upon those who sing your praises as an admirable soldier of Christ.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
You have risen like the morning star to drive away the darkness of error, O holy George, by your generosity and the strength of your faith; you save those who sing your praises.
Glory… Now…
O Virgin, in your holiness you have given birth to the most high Saviour, who redeems the human race in the wealth of His blessings and the goodness of His nature by restoring the image that had been lost.
Katavasia Let Habakkuk, inspired by God,* stand with us on divine watch,* and show forth the shining angel who clearly proclaims:* Today is salvation for the world,* for Christ is risen* as the Almighty.
Ode 5
Irmos Let us arise at early dawn* and bring to our Master a hymn instead of myrrh,* and we shall see Christ, the Sun of righteousness,* Who enlightens the life of all.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
The Church claps her hands and dances as she keeps festival: she celebrates the Holy Resurrection of the Saviour and the passing of the triumphant martyr George, singing as the two feasts come together.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
The good Glycerios glorifies the awesome outpouring of your miracles to the ends of the earth: for you miraculously saved his bull, then offered it to the Lord as a living sacrifice.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O holy martyr George, fill my mouth with praise and my spirit with grace, that I may celebrate the glory of your name: for when I sing to you, my heart rejoices exceedingly.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us!
All-pure one, how can you nourish a Child, yet remain a Virgin? Your awesome mystery astounds me. Yet, venerating your childbearing. I bow down before you, O all-holy Lady!
Irmos O Light of those who find themselves in darkness, O Christ, the Saviour of those without hope: I keep watch for You, O Prince of Peace: enlighten me with Your radiance; I know no other God but You.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Since you have the boldness of a martyr before the Master, ask Him earnestly for the salvation of those singing your praises, blessed George. Heal their souls by your prayers, O victorious martyr.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Rejoicing as a martyr with the choirs of angels, and filled completely with immortal and blessed glory, deliver from the storms of life all those who run to you for refuge.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O Christ, in Your great mercy, accept the prayers of Your holy servant George, and deliver us from all need by destroying turmoil, the storm of dangers and of sin.
Glory… Now…
Mother of God, you cancelled the debt of our first mother, Eve, since you bore the Saviour of the world, clothed in flesh from your womb. We all call you blessed, O Virgin full of grace!
Irmos Let us arise at early dawn* and bring to our Master a hymn instead of myrrh,* and we shall see Christ, the Sun of righteousness,* Who enlightens the life of all.
Ode 6
Irmos You descended into the realm of death, O Christ,* and broke the eternal bonds which held the prisoners captive;* and like Jonah from the whale,* You arose from the tomb on the third day.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Behold, O people called together by God, the wondrous George restores the grace of spring as with the charm of a young dove. Let us all rejoice in his joy.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Having endured sharp and grievous torments, you went through them as though they were pleasures. You concentrated on the Lord and sang to Him, O blessed George. While being racked on the wheel, your prayers rang out like thunder.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Rejoice and exult, singing a hymn of praise, O choir of martyrs, at finding George, celebrated in this present feast, among you. Rejoice greatly, as David did, for this is the day the Lord has made.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us!
You bear a child yet remain a virgin after as before. Awesome and beyond description is your childbearing, O Virgin and Mother, for you ineffably bore Him who is before time, who has now become a Child through you.
Irmos From the depth of my sins, I call out to the unfathomable depths of Your compassion: “O my God, bring me up from the pit!’”
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Your brave and noble deeds, exceeding our nature, words and understanding, are always praised in song, O blessed George, holy martyr!
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
As a companion of the heavenly hosts, O blessed saint, you gaze upon our God; preserve those who honour you with faith.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Blessed George, since you dedicated yourself totally to God, you have received the gift of miracles. Distribute gifts to those who ask for your help.
Glory… Now…
I seek refuge in you, O undefiled Virgin. Save and guard me by your prayers, for as Mother of mm who has power over all creation, you can do as you wish.
Katavasia You descended into the realm of death, O Christ,* and broke the eternal bonds which held the prisoners captive;* and like Jonah from the whale,* You arose from the tomb on the third day.
Kontakion of George, Tone 4
You showed yourself a most honourable harvester of godliness,* for it was God who cultivated you.* You gathered the sheaves of virtues;* for, sowing in tears, you reaped in gladness;* and in shedding your blood, you received Christ.* By your prayers, O holy one, you grant pardon of transgressions of all.
Ikos
Christ laid down His life for the world; and George, the generous soldier who loved Christ the King, hastened to his death. Having divine zeal in his heart, he offered up his life. O faithful, let us then sing of him as our fervent advocate who was a glorious servant of Christ. He clearly imitated his Master to the end, and now by his prayers he obtains the forgiveness of sins for all.
Ode 7
Irmos God Who saved the three youths from the furnace* has become man and suffered as any mortal,* but His is passion clothed in mortality with the splendour of incorruption.* He is the only blessed One of our fathers, and is worthy of all praise.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
I wish to sing of your glorious works, and yet I am humbled. Whenever I wish to recount all your marvels, they are more than I can narrate. Therefore, O holy martyr, accept these short refrains to honour you.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
There is no land, sea nor city nor wilderness, in which the streams of your miracles have not gushed forth, flowing like an ocean. Your marvellous name, O George, is the subject of song throughout the earth.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
The angelic hosts were amazed at your acts in your martyrdom, O commander George. The King of the Angels was moved by your fervour. Therefore, He has taken you to reign with Him forever.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us!
O divinely built tabernacle, filled with light; O candlestick; O vessel; O ark of the covenant; O temple in which God has dwelt; O rod that miraculously flowered; O Virgin Mother who has so many names: preserve us, your servants by your prayers.
Irmos At the impious order of an unjust tyrant, the flames mounted even higher; but Christ shed the dew of the Holy Spirit upon the young men: may He be blessed and glorified above all!
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Imitating your Master, O holy martyr, you voluntarily went to your struggle. Coming forth triumphant, you became the guardian of the Church of Christ, which rejoices in your constant protection.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O holy George, as an invincible martyr, a victorious athlete, an undefeated champion of the Faith, by your prayers be an unshaken tower, a protection for all the faithful who praise you today.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Wisely caring for the divine seed of grace, you made it increase by watering it with the streams of your blood. By the zeal of your martyrdom, you brought an end to the insolence of tyrants.
Glory… Now…
You remained a virgin after childbirth, for you brought forth the God who nourishes all flesh, who became man through His ineffable compassion and mercy. o pure Virgin, pray to Him that we may all be saved.
Katavasia God Who saved the three youths from the furnace* has become man and suffered as any mortal,* but His is passion clothed in mortality with the splendour of incorruption.* He is the only blessed One of our fathers, and is worthy of all praise.
Ode 8
Irmos This is the chosen and holy day,* the first after the Sabbath, the long and lord,* the feast of feasts, holy day of holy days.* On this day we bless Christ to all the ages!
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Gathering hymns for the martyr George from a divinely inspired psalter, as fragrant flowers from another paradise, let us weave a shining crown for him, made of song. For he has triumphed over the power of Satan.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Come, David, maker of psalms and prophet; say, “Who is the just man who flourishes like a palm tree? What manner of man is he?” George is our boast and pride, the bearer of sweet fruit, a plant nourishing the hearts of all.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Be present with us; be swift to approach as an eagle with golden wings. Cherish us as your brood and protect us under your wings; for it is good to rest in your shadow, O George!
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Behold what the prophet had foretold! A Virgin has conceived without seed the King of all! And she, the Queen and Lady, has remained as a Mother entirely without corruption. O spotless Sovereign, your childbearing is a great mystery!
Irmos In Babylon of old, the fiery furnace used its power to act in two separate ways. By the decree of God, it consumed the Chaldaeans while it became refreshing dew for the faithful who sang: “All you works of the Lord, bless the Lord!”
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
By your intercessions, O George, wearer of the martyr’s crown, make a flood of grievous passions and perils, troubles and accidents, temptations and persecutions, cease for all.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Blessed saint, illumined by the light of the Trinity, you are an invincible martyr, a champion of holiness, a victor crowned by God; by your prayers, save those who honour you as a citizen of heaven.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Adorned by a spiritual crown as a soldier of the kingdom, clothed in purple, dyed red with your own blood, you reign with the King of the heavenly powers, O George!
Let us bless the Lord, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen.
Virgin Mother, you have borne Him who was begotten by the Father before all time, who shone forth before all ages and made all things. Therefore, all peoples honour you as Theotokos.
Katavasia This is the chosen and holy day,* the first after the Sabbath, the long and lord,* the feast of feasts, holy day of holy days.* On this day we bless Christ to all the ages!
Ode 9
Irmos Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord has risen upon you! Exult now and be glad, O Sion! And you, O chaste Mother of God, take delight in the resurrection of o you Son.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
Drop down dew in sweetness, O mountains! Let the Holy Mountain rejoice! Be of good cheer and exult exceedingly, for you have found George, the powerful guardian of the Church, the holy mountain of God.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
All the families of the nations give praise, bless and extol, and cry out with joy; “Hail, O Saviour, Joy of the faithful! Hail also to you, glory of martyrs, O wondrous George!”
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
I venerate the flogging rods, the iron hooks, the whip and the fire which you suffered, O martyr of Christ. Indeed, I bless them all, and honour the wheel.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O holy martyr Demetrios and wondrous martyr George, two holy saints who have never failed us, watch over our land, keeping the multitude of trials far from us.
Most Holy Mother of God, save us!
All-pure Mother of God, fair glory and beauty of the faithful, joy of angels, salvation of the world: keep under your protection the faithful who seek refuge in you.
Irmos The Son of the eternal Father, our Lord and our God, took flesh from the Virgin and appeared to us to bring light to those in darkness and to gather together those who were scattered. O Theotokos, worthy of all praise, we magnify you!
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
O blessed saint, I entreat you to pray ceaselessly to Christ for us who sing your praises as His martyr, for you defeated tyrants, exorcised evil spirits, and are a vigilant guardian and protector who cannot be confounded.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
The Master of all has richly rewarded you for your sufferings, O blessed George. Standing before Him as a martyr with boldness and joy, preserve the faithful who call upon you.
Holy Martyr, George, intercede for us!
The earth has hidden your body as a treasure, and the gates of paradise opened to you as the heavens received you. O victorious martyr George, as you exult in the heavenly dwellings, guard the faithful who sing your praise.
Glory… Now…
The Ark of the Covenant prefigured you as it contained the tablets of the Law; and the vessel of Manna, is a clear prophecy of you, O Virgin. For you held in your womb the Word made flesh who had no beginning. O Theotokos.
Katavasia Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord has risen upon you! Exult now and be glad, O Sion! And you, O chaste Mother of God, take delight in the resurrection of o you Son.
Hymn of Light, Tone 2
Spring has shone forth for us:* it is the splendorous and divine Resurrection of the Master;* it transports us from earth to the heavenly Pasch.* The radiant remembrance of the glorious martyr George begins to shine with it.* We shall observe it with splendour* so that we may be made worthy of divine grace from Christ the Saviour.
Glory…
Like the light-bearing sun, O martyr George,* you illumine all creation with your marvellous rays.* Therefore, we observe your memory and extol Him who rose from the grave.
In Tone 3
Now…
O Thomas, do not refuse to believe in Me,* for I was wounded for your sake.* Examine my wounds with your hand;* be of one mind with the other disciples* and proclaim that I am the living God.
At the Praises
In Tone 1
We glorify Your divine humility;* we praise You, O Christ.* You were born of a virgin,* yet were not separated from the Father.* You became a mortal and suffered for us,* voluntarily enduring the Cross.* You rose from the tomb,* coming as from a bridal chamber to save the world.* O Lord, glory to You! (2)
Let us praise with one accord, as is proper,* Peter and Paul, Luke, Matthew, Mark, and John,* Andrew, Thomas, Bartholomew, and Simon the Canaanite,* James, Philip, and the whole company of the disciples.
Rejoice in the Lord, you holy Martyrs!* You have fought the good fight.* You resisted emperors and you conquered tyrants.* You did not fear fire and sword.* While your bodies were devoured by wild beasts,* you sent up hymns to Christ, joining with the angels.* You have received heavenly crowns.* Beg Him to grant peace to the world* and great mercy to our souls.
In Tone 2
It is called the all-festive, splendorous, and glorious Resurrection.* All of you who have celebrated the feast,* come again to resplendently celebrate* the feast of George the martyr.* Let us crown with spring flowers the one who was invincible,* so that through his pleas we may be delivered* from tribulations and from sins.
O all-blessed one,* you offered your whole life as a living and complete offering,* as a pleasing and most pure sacrifice.* Therefore, you have been a very fervent intercessor.* O martyr George, you dispel all the trials* of those who invoke and praise you.
You properly cultivated the seed of the Word* which had been sown in your pure soul.* By the pains of your sufferings, you made it grow.* It has been stored in the heavenly granaries.* You have found the incorruptible delight* and are now rejoicing in it.* By your prayers to God, save those who faithfully praise you.
Glory…
Solomon said and proclaimed to all:* The one who sees and proclaims things which are just is shown mercy by God.* You listened attentively, O patient George,* and followed the teachings of the Master.* You handed yourself over to the wicked and suffered to the end.* You looked upon the offerings to idols as an abomination.* You offered your body to be tortured because of your love for the Creator.* The Evil One was extremely angered when he saw you wearing a crown.* Therefore, since you suffered the passion of Christ,* you now live with the heavenly powers in the courts of your Lord;* entreat Him to save our souls.
In Tone 4
Now…
O marvellous wonder!* John leaned on the bosom of the Word,* and Thomas was made worthy to touch His side.* The first discovered the depth of theology,* and the other was privileged to announce the plan of salvation;* for he clearly revealed the mystery of his Resurrection, saying:* My Lord and my God, glory to You!
Troparia
In Tone 4
O victorious great-martyr George,* as a liberator of captives and helper of the poor,* physician of the sick* and champion of kings,* entreat Christ our God to save our souls.
In Tone 7
Glory… Now…
While the tomb was sealed, O Christ God, You dawned as life from the sepulchre, and while the doors were shut, You came to Your disciples, the Resurrection of all, renewing a right spirit in us through them, according to Your great mercy.
DIVINE LITURGY
After the priest has exclaimed, Blessed be the Kingdom… and the people have responded, Amen, the clergy sing the Paschal Troparion once and the people repeat it. Then, the clergy sing the first half, and the people conclude it.
Paschal Troparion
Christ is risen from the dead,* trampling death by death,* and to those in the tombs* giving life.
Troparia and Kontakia
Troparion, Tone 7: While the tomb was sealed, O Christ God, You dawned as life from the sepulchre, and while the doors were shut, You came to Your disciples, the Resurrection of all, renewing a right spirit in us through them, according to Your great mercy.
Troparion, Tone 4: O victorious great-martyr George,* as a liberator of captives and helper of the poor,* physician of the sick* and champion of kings,* entreat Christ our God to save our souls.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Kontakion, Tone 4: You showed yourself a most honourable harvester of godliness,* for it was God who cultivated you.* You gathered the sheaves of virtues;* for, sowing in tears, you reaped in gladness;* and in shedding your blood, you received Christ.* By your prayers, O holy one, you grant pardon of transgressions of all.
Now and for ever and ever. Amen.
Kontakion, Tone 8: With his searching hand, Thomas explored Your life-giving side, O Christ God. For when You entered while the doors were shut, he called out to You with the rest of the Apostles: You are my Lord and my God!
Prokeimenon, Tone 3
Great is our Lord and great is His strength;* and of His knowledge there is no end.
verse: Praise the Lord, for a psalm is good; may praise be sweet to our God. (Psalm 146:5,1)
Prokeimenon, Tone 7
verse: The just man shall be glad in the Lord and shall hope in Him.
Epistle
Acts 4:23-31; Acts 12:1-11
Alleluia, Tone 8
verse: Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord, let us acclaim God our Saviour.
verse: For God is the great Lord and the great king over all the earth. (Psalm 94:1,3)
verse: The just man shall flourish like the palm tree; and he shall grow like the cedar in Lebanon. (Psalm 91:13)
Gospel
John 5:24-30; John 15:17-16:2
Hymn to the Mother of God
The Angel cried out to the One full of Grace: O chaste Virgin, rejoice! And again I say, Rejoice! Your Son has risen from the tomb on the third day, and raised the dead. Let all people rejoice! Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord has risen upon you! Exult now and be glad, O Sion! And you, O chaste Mother of God, take delight in the resurrection of your Son.
Communion Hymn
Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem.* Praise your God, O Sion. (Psalm 147:1)* The just man shall be in everlasting remembrance;* of evil hearsay he shall have no fear.* Alleluia, alleluia,* alleluia. (Psalm 111:6)
Instead of “Blessed is He Who comes…” we sing:
Christ is risen from the dead,* trampling death by death,* and to those in the tombs* giving life.
Instead of “We have seen the true light…” we sing:
Christ is risen from the dead,* trampling death by death,* and to those in the tombs* giving life.
Instead of “May our mouths be filled…” we sing three times:
Christ is risen from the dead,* trampling death by death,* and to those in the tombs* giving life.
Instead of “Blessed be the name of the Lord…” we sing three times:
Christ is risen from the dead,* trampling death by death,* and to those in the tombs* giving life.
At the dismissal, instead of “Glory be to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and ever. Amen.” we chant:
Christ is risen from the dead,* trampling death by death,* and to those in the tombs* giving life.
After the final Amen, the Troparion “Christ is risen” is sung as at the beginning of the Liturgy, but with the addition:
And to us He has granted life eternal;* we bow down before His resurrection on the third day.