Akathist to St. Paisios

Kontakion 1

Let us believers with one voice all praise him who was sent by God in these times of trial for our comfort and guidance, Paisius the wonderful, who struggled graciously and pleasingly for the Master, burning with love for the whole world and pledged his heart for us and for our salvation. And let us call out to him in thanksgiving, saying: Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!

Ikos 1

God ordained that thou wast born in the blessed land of Cappadocia, the cradle of a countless multitude of saints, to whom thou too wast added in perfect worthiness, shining forth together with them and unceasingly guiding us to repentance. Therefore we praise thee with great joy, saying:

Rejoice, for thou didst make thyself a precious follower of the saints of Cappadocia!
Rejoice, for thou didst wholly liken thyself to them as a true bearer of God!
Rejoice, most fair and fragrant flower, who hast blossomed for our enlightenment!
Rejoice, wellspring of heavenly grace, who refreshest the whole world!
Rejoice, sweetest food, who fillest the souls that are starved of right teaching!
Rejoice, receptacle that hast gathered all our weaknesses, troubles and sorrows!
Rejoice, pillar of fire, who art the unshakable support of those that desire to gain salvation!
Rejoice, star that shinest in the firmament of the Church, guiding us to the everlasting mansions!
Rejoice, for thou wast shown to be a blessing of God and a sign of His ineffable mercy!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 2

O Blessed Father, thou wast chosen from thy mother's womb to give thyself up to God in all things and thus become a precious vessel unto Him, for the salvation and guidance of all that put their hope in thee. To Him, Who worked great wonders and mercy through thee, for such a blessing we all sing with joy the song: Alleluia!

Ikos 2

The baptism which thou, O Father, didst receive from the hands of the saint of God, Arsenius, was a sign of God’s grace resting on thee. For seeing thy many gifts in spirit, from thine early infancy he blessed thee to be his disciple and bear his name. Therefore, despite our unworthiness, we honour thee, saying:

Rejoice, for thou wast found worthy to be baptized by Saint Arsenius the Cappadocian!
Rejoice, for he foresaw all that was to come to pass with thee!
Rejoice, for his spirit rejoiced, seeing such blessed fruit sprung forth from the flock that he shepherded!
Rejoice, for on account of this he cared for thee unceasingly through all his earthly life!
Rejoice, for even after departing to heaven he did not forsake thee, but all the more interceded for thee!
Rejoice, for thou too didst honour him as befitting, piously reckoning him to be thy father in Christ!
Rejoice, for thou didst struggle heartily for his glorification, gathering testimonies of his wondrous life!
Rejoice, for the Saint of God blessed thee to find his most beloved relics, which became a fount of countless healings!
Rejoice, for lovingly thou didst lay his revered body in the monastery founded by thee at Souroti!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 3

Moving to Greece because of the tyrannical Turkish persecution, thy parents came to the land of Konitsa, and, sacrificing thyself, O father, thou didst begin to ascend the godly ladder of perfection. For even since childhood, thou wast shown to be to be a guiding light for all those around thee, who, seeing thy precious gifts, glorified God, saying: Alleluia!

Ikos 3

Instructed by the example of thy parents, from a young age thou didst strive with burning zeal for the love of Christ, showing the deeds of a perfect man. For following thy blessed mother, before long thou didst begin to fast strictly and pray unceasingly to God, a hermit by life, yet a child by age. Wondering at the manliness of thy heart, with joy we sing to thee thus:

Rejoice, for still young thou didst wholly forsake the fleeting lusts of this world!
Rejoice, for through perfect fasting thou didst preserve unspoiled the crown of virginity!
Rejoice, for thy youth did not prevent thee from acquiring unceasing prayer in solitude!
Rejoice, for instead of revelling in childish games, thou didst delight in ever being with Christ and His saints!
Rejoice, for on account of this thou didst avoid the friendship of those that sundered thee from thine ardent love!
Rejoice, for thou didst not only strive for outward things, but also adorned thy soul with all virtue!
Rejoice, for thou didst follow the kindness and devoutness of thy blessed mother!
Rejoice, for she set thee an unspoiled example of love and utter self-sacrifice!
Rejoice, for we all wonder at the courage with which thou didst begin to fight the good fight!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 4

Called to battle to defend thy country from the unbelievers, O Father, thou didst shine forth in thy boundless courage. For, wholly forsaking the love of self, thou didst ever seek to be amidst peril, in order to spare those that fought together with thee. And seeing this, they all thanked God for such support, saying: Alleluia!

Ikos 4

O Blessed Father, thou didst use the war as a means of sanctification, for thou didst unceasingly grow in love beyond passion, sacrificing thy soul for the sake of thy friends. And thus thou didst win immortal crowns from Christ our God, Who makes Himself a hundredfold reward for all sacrifice. Understanding this, we too hasten to bring words like these to praise thee:

Rejoice, for thou wast a wonderful example of utter self-sacrifice in battle!
Rejoice, for thou didst utterly scorn this earthly life, thus earning heavenly life!
Rejoice, for thou didst not lose thy piety in the dread perils which thou didst endure!
Rejoice, for through the greatness of thy soul, thou didst make thyself a light of sanctification to those around thee!
Rejoice, for thou didst help in and out of season all in trouble and sorrow!
Rejoice, for thou didst utterly overcome human fear, arming thyself with iron courage!
Rejoice, for fighting against the enemies of thy country, thou didst also secretly fight against the enemies of Thy soul!
Rejoice, for although thou didst wish to die in place of thy friends, God shielded thee as His most beloved one!
Rejoice, for through the wonderful power of thy soul, thou didst show us also the path to perfection!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 5

With burning zeal thou didst forsake the world, O Father, and wholly dedicate thyself to Christ, joining the army of monks, who unceasingly struggle to overcome their nature. And in a short time thou didst become an angel in the flesh, wholly clothing thyself in Him, to Whom we too humbly sing: Alleluia!

Ikos 5

Thou didst withdraw to the blessed desert of Sinai in order to serve Christ, O Blessed Father, and overcoming the lusts of the world, thou didst become perfect man, shining forth with all virtue and burning with true love for God, Who through thee bestowed on us the abundance of His mercy. Therefore, despite our unworthiness, we too thank thee, saying:

Rejoice, angelic man, for thou didst reckon all worldly lusts as vanity!
Rejoice, for thou didst strive for three years in the harsh desert of Sinai!
Rejoice, for unknown by all, thou didst live there in a hidden cave, enduring heat and frost!
Rejoice, for there thou didst fight unto blood against all desires!
Rejoice, for through thy great meekness, thou hast utterly defeated the cunning demons!
Rejoice, for thou didst wash from thyself all the filth of sin, becoming a true light of Christ!
Rejoice, for thou didst begin to pray with fervent tears for the whole world!
Rejoice, for seeing thy overwhelming sacrifice, God filled thee with gifts beyond nature!
Rejoice, for in thy narrow cave, thou wast vouchsafed countless revelations of divine grace!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 6

After fighting the good fight in Sinai, O Father, thou wast called by the Mother of God to her earthly garden, the Holy Mount of Athos, the blossom and light of Orthodoxy. And foreseeing there the place of thy perfection, thou didst thank the Most Holy Queen for her wondrous protecting veil, with which she unceasingly shieldeth the whole world from troubles and sufferings; and with joy thou didst sing to her Son the sweet song: Alleluia!

Ikos 6

Arriving on the Holy Mountain and taken to many places by the grace of God, thou didst ascend the ladder of holiness, O Blessed Father, like a wise bee gathering from everywhere the sweetest spiritual nectar. And afterward thou didst become the son of Father Tikhon, the Spirit-bearing Elder who was full of virtue and whom thou didst follow in absolute obedience. Therefore, with feeble voices we sing to thee thus:

Rejoice, for God foreordained glorification for thee on blessed Mount Athos!
Rejoice, for He entrusted thee to the care of His Most Pure Mother, Who guarded thee as Her beloved son!
Rejoice, for overshadowed by the Holy Spirit, thou didst wander over the whole Mountain, seeking out fathers of holy life!
Rejoice, for thou didst wonder at their unceasing prayers, through which God sheddeth His mercy on the whole world!
Rejoice, for thou didst strive to write their lives too, for the glory of God and the profit of men!
Rejoice, for afterward thou didst become the disciple of Blessed Father Tikhon, the one perfect in holiness!
Rejoice, for thou didst serve him with endless love, in all things trusting in his wise guidance!
Rejoice, for seeing thy utter obedience, God also gave thee the gift to abide in thy holy father!
Rejoice, for after his repose, Blessed Tikhon revealed to thee that he would pray for thee unceasingly!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 7

Perfecting thyself in absolute love, thou didst make thyself a tool of God, Who began to work through thee with great power. For He made thee a comfort for all those that were troubled and a guide for those that were darkened in sin. We all thank God, O Father, for He gave thee to us for our salvation, and we sing to Him thus: Alleluia!

Ikos 7

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father that is in heaven, said the Saviour of the world with true voice. For in thee too, O Father, his word was fulfilled with all power. Therefore we praise thee too, saying:

Rejoice, thou who hast taught the world through books enlightened by the Holy Spirit!
Rejoice, thou who through words of great profit hast dispelled the ignorance of our times!
Rejoice, trumpet of the Spirit, who heralded to all the joy of repentance!
Rejoice, wondrous prophet, who showed us that we live in the end times!
Rejoice, merciful healer of all diseases which cannot be healed!
Rejoice, precious carer for all whose souls are burdened with sorrows!
Rejoice, godly oil, that hast cleansed all our wounds!
Rejoice, heavenly peace, that hast brought so many broken families back together!
Rejoice, skilful guide, that hast removed all devilish snares from among the people!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 8

Seeing the terrible struggle conducted by the enemy of salvation against the family blessed by God, thou didst gird thyself with the weapon of the word, teaching spouses that only patience, long-suffering, forbearance and self-sacrifice with love can ensure the peace of their homes. Unceasingly we glorify God for sending thee, O Blessed Father, to show us the right way, and we sing: Alleluia!

Ikos 8

Give me Christian mothers and I will give you saints to change the world, said the godly Chrysostom. And touched by this truth, thou didst ever struggle with prayers and advice, showing faithful spouses that peace in the family is fruit of the Holy Spirit, and that they must wisely strive for this. We all thank thee for thine effort to bring healing to our families, so cruelly struck by temptations, saying:

Rejoice, intercessor before God for the harmony of those in married life!
Rejoice, for the faithful spouses whom thou didst advise to live in moderation and holiness!
Rejoice, for thou didst teach them lovingly and unselfishly to bear one another’s weaknesses!
Rejoice, for thou didst show the parents that through prayer the grace of God descendeth on the whole family, bringing peace and happiness!
Rejoice, for thou didst struggle against all sins, seeing them as the cause of the falling apart of families!
Rejoice, for thou didst make thyself an unyielding reprover of the horrible slaughter of infants!
Rejoice, for thou didst tell faithful mothers that through the example of their lives they can turn their children into saints!
Rejoice, for thou didst show the young that through obedience they attract the mercy of God and a peaceful life!
Rejoice, for thou didst beseech them to earn their parents’ blessing, through which cometh also the blessing of the Holy Spirit!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 9

Let us now joyfully praise Paisius, our intercessor, who through his heartfelt prayers miraculously healed all our sufferings, both in body and soul. And let us sing with thanksgiving to God, Who is glorified in the Holy Trinity: Alleluia!

Ikos 9

O Father, thou didst make thyself the healer of all diseases through the gift given to thee by God. For burning with love and pity for those tormented by afflictions, thou didst selflessly pray for their relief, teaching them to thank God for all things. We all praise thee with one voice, saying:

Rejoice, strong weapon against the horrible disease of cancer!
Rejoice, tireless carer for those that suffer in terrible pain!
Rejoice, wellspring of healing, in which all those wounded in soul refresh themselves!
Rejoice, banisher of demons, for with thy meekness thou didst crush all the wickedness and tyranny of the devil!
Rejoice, most merciful father, for thou couldst not bear to see the people crushed under the weight of their sufferings of body and soul!
Rejoice, for on account of this thou didst take upon thyself all our troubles and sorrows!
Rejoice, for thou didst selflessly pray that God might give thee our weaknesses!
Rejoice, for thou didst teach us that all sorrows come through straying from God and His commandments!
Rejoice, thou who hast shown us that the reward for those that suffer with patience and glorify God is ineffable!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 10

The Lord and Saviour of the world promised a great reward to those that would strive in righteousness for the perfection of others. And though a simple monk and unlearned in worldly things, thou, O Blessed Father, wast gifted with wisdom by the Spirit of the Lord Himself, to guide thousands on the path of salvation. Unto now thou prayest for them to God, to Whom with joy we too sing: Alleluia!

Ikos 10

On account of thy complete virtue, God adorned thee with gifts beyond nature, which thou didst use for His glory and the profit of men. For thou didst make thyself a father of countless believers, who, beset by the terrible temptations of our times, sought thee as a heavenly haven. And therefore we ask thee to accept us too among thy spiritual children and allow us to sing with thanksgiving to thee thus:

Rejoice, for thou didst teach the people to struggle against the evil thoughts sown in their minds by the enemy of our salvation!
Rejoice, for shining with the gift of discernment, thou didst at once reveal to thy sons whether their thoughts were from God or from the devil!
Rejoice, for by the grace of God thou knewest the depths of the hearts of men!
Rejoice, for having great wisdom, thou hast brought to naught all the cunning snares of the evil one!
Rejoice, for thou didst bring many to repentance through thine unfeigned love!
Rejoice, for thou didst make thyself a wise reproof of the proud and stubborn!
Rejoice, for thou wast a tender caress for those in despair and overwhelmed by temptations!
Rejoice, for thou didst weep unceasingly for all that looked to thee as a true hope of salvation!
Rejoice, for on the day of judgement thou shalt say to God with sweet joy: Behold I and the children that Thou hast given me!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 11

Becoming a perfect monk, O Father, and full of the grace of God, thou didst make thyself the steadfast hope of the unconsoled souls of those who desired to dedicate themselves wholly to Christ. And in thy gifts they all saw in thee a guide enlightened by the Holy Spirit. Therefore we praise God, Who did not deprive His flock of shepherds of holy life, saying: Alleluia!

Ikos 11

Thou didst found a convent in Souroti, where thy finest spiritual daughters would dedicate themselves to Christ the Bridegroom with great love. And then thou didst lead them to perfection through thy most wondrous counsel, as a loving and long-suffering father, who is to us also an undeceiving guide. Therefore we all bless thee, saying: Rejoice, for thou didst found the convent of Saint John the Theologian in Souroti!
Rejoice, for this became a haven of salvation for souls that thirsted for Christ!
Rejoice, for thou didst strive in and out of season to make the nuns into perfect brides of our Lord!
Rejoice, for thou didst teach them true monastic life, signifying to forsake the world and its lusts!
Rejoice, for thou didst strive unceasingly to kindle their zeal for blessed asectic feats!
Rejoice, for thou didst guide them to frequent confession of sins, through which all the devil’s works are utterly despoiled!
Rejoice, for thy counsel fell on fruitful earth and refreshed the whole world!
Rejoice, for thou didst struggle diligently against the spirit of this world, which doth terrible harm to monastic life!
Rejoice, for through thy courage and love thou didst make thyself an example of spiritual victory for all monks!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 12

Great was the grace of God on thee, O Blessed Father, and also His great mercy, for on account of thy great self-sacrifice, the Almighty vouchsafed thee wonderful revelations and joys beyond belief. We too rejoice, seeing the reward that God giveth His saints, and we beg Him to make us too partakers thereof and we sing to Him: Alleluia!

Ikos 12

Even from this earth, O Father, thou didst taste of the joys of heaven, prepared by our All-Merciful God for all that serve Him with love. For although the struggles which the evil one conducted against thee were terrible, so much greater were the consolations through which God strengthened thee in virtue. Therefore, in humble praise, we sing to thee: Rejoice, all-sweet light, through which Christ shineth forth to the whole world!
Rejoice, wonderful flame that thou kindlest in us with the love of God!
Rejoice, for thou didst make thyself the perfect abode of heavenly grace!
Rejoice, for in thee it bore all the fruits of holiness!
Rejoice, for God overwhelmed thee with His gifts beyond nature!
Rejoice, for thou didst taste of everlasting and uncreated light!
Rejoice, for thou didst live with the Saints as with thy close friends!
Rejoice, for the Most Gracious Mother of our Lord appeared to thee to strengthen thee in sorrows!
Rejoice, ineffable wonder, for thou wast vouchsafed to speak to Christ Our Lord and God Himself!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 13

Thou, O Father, didst say with words enlightened by the Holy Spirit that many saints would have desired to live in our times, in order to strive for salvation. For Thou didst herald to us, who live in darkness, that the time is almost ready and that those that now struggle valiantly to win their salvation will receive a martyr’s reward. For this we thank God, Who with mercy looked on His people, sending His Saint for our enlightenment, and thus with voices of joy we gladly sing to our All-Gracious Master the song: Alleluia!

This Kontakion is read 3 times.

And then again Ikos 1: God ordained that thou wast born ... and Kontakion 1: Let us believers with one voice all praise ...

Then this:

Prayer to our Blessed Father Paisius the Athonite

O beloved Father Paisius, thou that didst ascend the rungs of holiness and become perfect in virtue, therefore gaining boldness before our Merciful God, do thou pray to Him, Whom thou didst serve unceasingly all thy life, not to let us perish for the multitude of our sins, but to turn us back to blessed repentance.

Thou, who on earth didst heal with such love our countless weaknesses, diseases both of body and soul, canst all the more now deliver us from all sufferings. So do thou have mercy on us, O Father, through thy immeasurable love and godly kindness, not forsaking us that are full of sins.

Do thou, who didst never tire of guiding us to salvation and bearing our weaknesses whilst thou wast here with us, now grant us too the wisdom to overcome the temptations which the wicked devil doth ever weave around us and through which he would destroy our souls for eternity. Enlighten us to know the will of God for us and pray to the Master that He might give us power to fulfil it with thanksgiving.

Do thou, who didst set an unwavering example of courage and self-sacrifice, strengthen us also to follow Thy virtue, that we may win an everlasting crown, of which thou thyself wast found most worthy.

Thus, O Father, do not forsake us, who ceaselessly anger our long-suffering God, but rather stand with boldness before His throne, interceding for us with tears, that God may give us for thy sake most dear salvation. And thus, thanking thee with all our heart for all that thou hast done and still doest for us, let us also thank our Most Gracious God, Who is glorified in the Holy Trinity, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen!

Akathist Hymn to Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer

Kontakion 1

Unto thee, O champion leader and victorious Saint George, we offer a hymn of praise as unto our intercessor and speedy helper. Do thou, holy Great Martyr, as one who hath boldness before the Lord, deliver us from dangers of all kinds that we may cry unto thee:

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Ikos 1

The Creator of angels and Maker of all creation hath revealed thee unto His Church as a guardian and passion-bearer for the faith. Thou art an inspiration for us, and we lift up praises unto thee for the ascetic labors of thy sufferings, Saint George, in this manner:

Rejoice, thou who didst love unto the end Jesus, the Son of God.

Rejoice, thou who didst lay down thy life with love for His Name.

Rejoice, confessor called forth by God.

Rejoice, spiritual athlete glorified by the grace of God.

Rejoice, thou who dwellest with the angels.

Rejoice, thou who art the equal of the prophets.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 2

Beholding how the wicked idolaters were persecuting the Christians, thou didst not fear their wiles and tortures, divinely wise George. As a good soldier of Christ, thou didst distribute all thy possessions among the poor, and then didst voluntarily run to that ungodly gathering, singing unto Christ, thy commander and God: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Mentally comprehending the One God divinely worshipped in Three Persons, with a firm mind thou didst confess Him before the assembly of the ungodly. Thus, thou didst expose the unwise king’s foolish worship of creation. In admiration of thy lofty love of wisdom, Saint George, accept from us these fervent praises:

Rejoice, wise preacher of the One True God.

Rejoice, faithful advocate of the All-Holy Trinity.

Rejoice, thou who didst manifest the great mystery of the True Faith unto the unbelievers.

Rejoice, thou who didst expose the deception of idol worship.

Rejoice, revelation of holy wisdom.

Rejoice, image of divine inspiration.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 3

The power of God, which enlighteneth every man that cometh into the world, did visit thee also, whilst thou wast suffering in prison, O George wise in humility. Thou didst despise all the corruptible things of this life as chaff. Thou didst faithfully cling unto Christ alone, that after fighting the good fight for His Name, thou mightest be granted eternally to chant with the angels: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Possessing a mind and heart enlightened by the Holy Ghost, by His inspiration thou wast fervent to struggle for the Name of Christ, even unto blood. Standing courageously in the faith, thou didst expose the puffed-up pride of the ungodly congregation. Let us, then, come to thee, most wonderful George, singing praises unto thee:

Rejoice, shield lifted for preservation of piety.

Rejoice, sword raised for the beheading of evil.

Rejoice, confirmation of the Christian Church.

Rejoice, comfort of those gathered in prayer.

Rejoice, encouragement of the faithful.

Rejoice, fear and disgrace of the unbelievers.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 4

The mad persecutor, breathing murder against thee, O passion-bearer George, longed for thy blood like a thirsty dog, ordering thy body stretched out on a wheel and giving thee over unto the most evil torments. Wherefore thou, taking strength in the Lord, with hope and trust in God didst cry aloud: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

When Diocletian and the priest of the idols heard words of wisdom from thee, they were enraged with hatred for thee, and even more so when thou didst say: O tormentor king, why dost thou torture me in vain? For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. The faithful therefore humbly cry unto thee, O George of great fame, in this way:

Rejoice, thou who didst shed thy blood upon the wheel for thy courageous confession of the Faith.

Rejoice, thou who didst magnify the triumph of the Faith by thy blood.

Rejoice, zealot together with the apostles.

Rejoice, imitator of the voluntary Passion of Christ.

Rejoice, unshakable champion of the Faith.

Rejoice, passion-bearer harder than adamant.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 5

Thou wast as a star sent by God, O Saint George, for with thy miraculous healing and release from the wheel by an angel before the eyes of all, thou didst enlighten the unbelievers to believe in the Trinity in One Essence, and to sing unto Him together with thee: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

The people beheld the miracles of the power of God so clearly taking place in thee, and meekly accepted the teaching of Christ from thee. They cried aloud, saying: Truly great is the God of the Christians. It is fitting that we also sing praises unto thee, George worthy of glory, and so we cry out thus:

Rejoice, thou who didst disperse the darkness of unbelief by the radiant word of salvation.

Rejoice, thou who didst convert unbelievers unto Christ by thy martyr’s confession of faith.

Rejoice, thou who didst lead legions of earthly soldiers unto the heavenly army.

Rejoice, thou who dwellest with the heavenly hosts as a soldier of Christ.

Rejoice, glory of courageous soldiers.

Rejoice, beauty of the all-radiant choirs of martyrs.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 6

Zealous in faith, like unto those Spirit-bearing preachers, the apostles, thou wast crucified unto the world, O Martyr George. Just as Jonah was in the belly of the sea monster, thou wast hurled headlong into the furnace of the lime pit — that through thy life might be manifested the glory of the Lord Who is wondrous in His saints. Henceforth in the lime pit as in a temple of glory, thou didst noetically cry out: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

Having shone forth in His Resurrection from the tomb on the third day, Jesus, the Almighty Conqueror of hades and death, did save thee from corruption, O victorious George. After three days thou wast found alive in the lime pit, with thy hands lifted and singing unto God. The ungodly were sore afraid and stricken with terror, but we rejoice and compose a hymn of victory unto thee:

Rejoice, thou who didst cast down the puffed-up pride of the devil by thy being cast down in disgrace into the lime pit.

Rejoice, thou who didst overcome the persecutor’s bestiality by thy miraculous salvation from God.

Rejoice, for as one without guile, thou didst pray as for benefactors for those who worked evil against thee.

Rejoice, for thou wast zealous for their conversion as Paul was for the Jews.

Rejoice, man of spiritual desires.

Rejoice, victor through the power of Christ.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 7

Desiring by any means to ensnare thy heart for service to the idols, the wicked persecutor contrived to mislead thee by magical spells. Therein thou, chosen of God, didst cry out with David: In God is my salvation and my glory, and didst faithfully chant unto Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

That evil servant of Satan, Diocletian , revealed a new villainy. In his insane zeal for the idols, he ordered thee to be given poison, Saint George, but thou wast filled with faith and hope. Even though thou didst drink the deadly poison, yet thou didst remain unharmed, O praised-one of God. We marvel at thy holiness and sing unto thee:

Rejoice, for thou wast not disgraced by thy hope in the living God.

Rejoice, for thou didst count thy torment as nothing.

Rejoice, expeller of soul-destroying demons.

Rejoice, destroyer of the wiles of magicians.

Rejoice, through thee God is shewn to be wondrous in His saints.

Rejoice, through thee the Name of Christ is piously glorified.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 8

There came to the wicked king a strange and terrible counsel from a certain wizard: that he command thee, as proof of the truth of the Christian Faith, by thy word to resurrect a dead man. Thou, Saint George, having no doubt whatsoever, didst sing unto Him Who is not the God of the dead but the God of the living: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

The all-desirable and Sweetest Jesus, Whom thou lovest with all thy soul and heart, most blessed George, attended to the fervent prayer of thy faith and speedily commanded the resurrection of the dead man at thy word. This was to the glorification of His Name and the confirmation of the faithful, so that the unbelievers and the blind might be astounded and thereby gain knowledge of God. For this reason, we dutifully cry unto thee:

Rejoice, through thee the Lord of hosts manifested wonders.

Rejoice, through thee He resurrected a dead man from the tomb.

Rejoice, thou who didst grant the mental vision of faith unto the blinded wizard.

Rejoice, thou who didst shew the way to the Holy of Holies unto many who suffered for Christ.

Rejoice, astonishment of Rome.

Rejoice, exaltation of the Christian race.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 9

All the angels rendered praise unto God, Who granted thee such courage, victorious George, that even when locked up in prison thou didst not cease to keep vigil in prayer. As a great communicant of the mystery of divine grace, thou wast vouchsafed to behold the Lord in a vision. He crowned thy head with the crown of incorruption, so that we might cry out with thee: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

The learned orators are unable with their rhetorical tongues to render worthy praises unto thee, Martyr George, for thy labors and sufferings which thou didst assume voluntarily for Christ and the Church. We also, not knowing how to properly praise thee, chant this hymn with faith:

Rejoice, by thy voluntary suffering for Christ and the Church thou didst crucify the old Adam in thyself.

Rejoice, by thy courageous suffering thou didst receive a crown of righteousness from the Lord.

Rejoice, rule of pious zeal.

Rejoice, model of self-sacrifice.

Rejoice, for thou didst please not thyself, but Christ alone.

Rejoice, for thou wast prepared for any form of death for the sake of thy Saviour, Christ.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 10

Desiring to save the souls perishing in idolatry, O Saint George, lover of God, thou wast zealous for God like Elijah. Entering into the temple of the idols, by the power of God thou didst drive out the demons, shattering the idols and putting the priests to shame. Thereafter as conqueror, not with men but with angels, thou didst chant unto God: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

More unfeeling than a wall, thy hard-hearted tormentor, O Great Martyr, did not see God, Who so clearly worked miracles through thee, but to the end remained as an asp, stopping his ears. He commanded thee to be executed as a criminal by beheading. Though grieving over the loss of his soul, thou didst joyfully accept thine end, for which we praise thee with love in this manner:

Rejoice, thou who didst keep faith, hope and love unto the end.

Rejoice, thou who didst work many great miracles at thy beheading.

Rejoice, thou who wast crowned to the glory of God’s goodwill toward those on earth.

Rejoice, thou who wast adorned with majesty in Heaven.

Rejoice, man of God.

Rejoice, good soldier of Christ.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 11

Thou didst render a hymn unto the Most Holy Trinity exceeding others, holy Saint George, not in word and mind only, but by the living sacrifice of thy whole self. Imitating Him Who was crucified for us, Christ the Lamb without blemish, thou didst voluntarily lay down thy life for thy friends. Even though we are incapable of praising such courage as thine, for no man hath greater love than this, yet being grateful we sing unto Him Who is wondrous in the saints: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

A light-receiving lamp of the True Light art thou to those on earth, Saint George, chosen of God, for thou dost enlighten the hearts of the faithful and dost guide them all unto divine understanding, instructing us also to joyfully cry aloud:

Rejoice, for thou dost dwell in the all-radiant angelic mansions.

Rejoice, for thou dost commune of the never-waning light of the Trinity not in a mirror, but face to face.

Rejoice, provider for the needy and defender of the wronged.

Rejoice, healer of the infirm and support of kings.

Rejoice, champion of Orthodox soldiers in battle.

Rejoice, fervent intercessor for the salvation of sinners.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 12

Knowing the grace granted by God, we celebrate thy memory, Great Martyr George. Running with fervent prayer to thy miraculous icon, we are protected by thine all-powerful help in the Lord as by an invincible wall. In praise of thine aid to others, we fervently cry unto God: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Hymning thy glorious end, by which thou wast magnified as a good soldier of Christ, we pray thee, O passion-bearer and helper in all good for us: Protect us as we earnestly cry unto thee:

Rejoice, by thee the Church of the faithful is enlightened.

Rejoice, for thy name is praised even among the infidels.

Rejoice, wondrous glory of the confessors.

Rejoice, lofty praise of the martyrs.

Rejoice, protector of those who honour thy memory.

Rejoice, deliverer of those who confess Christ God.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 13

Most blessed and holy Great Martyr George, accept our hymn of praise and deliver us from every evil by thy fervent intercession unto God, so that we may sing with thee: Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

(Repeat Kontakion 13 three times.)

Kontakion 1 (repeated)

Unto thee, O champion leader and victorious Saint George, we offer a hymn of praise as unto our intercessor and speedy helper. Do thou, holy Great Martyr, as one who hath boldness before the Lord, deliver us from dangers of all kinds that we may cry unto thee:

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Ikos 1 (repeated)

The Creator of angels and Maker of all creation hath revealed thee unto His Church as a guardian and passion-bearer for the faith. Thou art an inspiration for us, and we lift up praises unto thee for the ascetic labors of thy sufferings, Saint George, in this manner:

Rejoice, thou who didst love unto the end Jesus, the Son of God.

Rejoice, thou who didst lay down thy life with love for His Name.

Rejoice, confessor called forth by God.

Rejoice, spiritual athlete glorified by the grace of God.

Rejoice, thou who dwellest with the angels.

Rejoice, thou who art the equal of the prophets.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

A Prayer

Great Martyr George, we hasten to thee for triumph over every torment and distress and over all pride and passion, that we may glorify Jesus Christ as zealous conquerors of this world and heirs of the Heavenly Kingdom. We acknowledge our unworthiness of such holy victory but, in praise of the courage, hope and trust which thou hast demonstrated throughout thy life and into thy martyrdom, we lovingly beseech thine aid in battle against sin. Pray for us, Saint George, that we may be granted the grace to confess the Faith before others and to fulfill the Commandments under all circumstances and among all people. Let us witness of Christ the Lord that everyone might see His radiant light and believe in His holy teachings. Amen

Άγιος Παΐσιος Αγιορείτης - Ομιλία Μητροπολίτου Μόρφου Νεοφύτου

Γιατί οι χριστιανοί παρασύρονται στις μαγείες; ( Πνευματικοί Διάλογοι με Ρουμάνους Πατέρες )

Διότι εξέλειπε απ' αυτούς η πίστης και ο φόβος του Θεού· διότι σήμερα δεν προσεύχονται σχεδόν καθόλου, ώστε να εκπληρωθούν τα αιτήματα των με την προσευχή και να μη τρέχουν στις μαγείες. Δεν διαβάζουν σήμερα την Αγία Γραφή για να δουν Τι τιμωρίες περιμένουν τους ασχολούμενους μ' αυτά.

Δεν πηγαίνουν τακτικά στην εκκλησία, δεν εξομολογούνται ούτε ακόμη στις τέσσερες μεγάλες νηστείες, δεν ζητούν στις ανάγκες των την συμβουλή και την ευχή του Ιερέως.

Επί πλέον τρέχουν πολλοί στις μαγείες διότι ξέχασαν τις υποσχέσεις πού έδωσαν στον Χριστό, στο μυστήριο του Βαπτίσματος, όταν είπαν: "Αποτάσσομαι τω σατανά και πάσι τοις έργοις αυτού και πάση τη πομπή αυτού...". Άλλοι πηγαίνουν στους μάγους επειδή δεν εκπληρώθηκαν τα αιτήματα των στην Εκκλησία του Χριστού, ή διότι λησμόνησαν τον θάνατο και την ημέρα της μελλούσης Κρίσεως του Χριστού.

Γι' αυτό οι Άγιοι Πατέρες μας συμβουλεύουν να τρέχουμε μόνο στον Θεό, μόνο στην Εκκλησία και τους Ιερείς και όχι στον διάβολο και τους υπηρέτες του.

Ο άγιος Ιωάννης ο Χρυσόστομος μας συμβουλεύει, λέγοντας: "Σας παρακαλώ να είσθε καθαροί απ' αυτές τις απάτες... και όταν θελήσουν να πατήσουν το κατώφλι του σπιτιού σου (μάγοι) να λέγεις πρώτα - πρώτα αυτό τον λόγο: "Σε αρνούμαι σατανά, με όλη την τιμή και την συνοδεία σου και ενώνομαι με Σένα, Χριστέ!". Χωρίς αυτή την απόφαση ποτέ σου να μη εξέλθεις από το σπίτι σου.

Αυτή η πίστης σου να σου γίνει βακτηρία, αυτή να γίνει όπλο, αυτή φρουρός και προστάτης και συγχρόνως να κάνης το σημείο του σταυρού στο μέτωπο σου.

Διότι, εάν μ' αυτό τον τρόπο θα οπλιστείς από παντού, όχι μόνο άνθρωπος αλλά ούτε και διάβολος ακόμη δεν θα σε πλησίαση ούτε θα μπορέσει να σε βλάψει σε τίποτε" (Ένθα' ανωτέρω). 

Πνευματικοί Διάλογοι με Ρουμάνους Πατέρες

Σώσον Κύριε τον λαόν σου - Ιερα Μονή Ξηροποτάμου

Akathist Hymn to the Holy Prophet David, King of Israel

Whose memory the Holy Church celebrates on the
 Sunday after the  Nativity of Christ

                              Kontakion I

    With hymns and psalms let us honor the holy King David, who of all the sons of Israel was chosen by God to reign over His elect, and, through his seed, gave rise in the flesh to the Messiah, our Lord, God and Savior, Jesus Christ; and let us say unto him: As thou wast delivered from hades by our Redeemer at His glorious resurrection, and standest now with boldness before the throne of His divine majesty, teach us to sing to Him a new song, that we may cry unto thee:

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Ikos I

    When Saul, the King of Israel, disobeyed the command of God, and the Lord rejected him from being king, He sent His high priest, the holy Prophet Samuel, to Bethlehem of Jud?a, where he took David, the least among the sons of Jesse, from among the flocks of the fields, and anointed him king with a horn of oil, so that the Spirit of the Lord came upon the holy youth. Wherefore, mindful of his humility and favor before the Lord, we cry unto him:
    Rejoice, for thou didst not walk in the counsel of the ungodly;
    rejoice, for thou didst not stand in the way of sinners!
    Rejoice, for thy will was in the law of the Lord;
    rejoice, for in His law thou didst meditate day and night!
    Rejoice, for thou wast established as king by God;
    rejoice, for thou didst proclaim His commandments!
    Rejoice, for thou didst serve the Lord with fear;
    rejoice, for thou didst rejoice in Him with trembling!
    Rejoice, for the Lord was thy Helper and glory;
    rejoice, for when thou didst cry unto Him, He heard thee!
    Rejoice, for God smote all who without cause were thine enemies;
    rejoice, for His blessing was ever upon thee, who put thy trust in Him!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion II

    When the Spirit of God departed from King Saul, the Lord permitted an evil spirit to trouble him. Then the servants of the king counselled him to seek a skillful harp player, that whenever the demon would assail him, the sweet music of the harp would stave it off. Wherefore, Saul dispatched a messenger unto Jesse in Bethlehem, saying: "Send me David, thy son, who is with the sheep." And whensoever the evil spirit vexed the king, David would take his harp and play; and Saul was refreshed, and the demon departed from him, so that he cried: Alleluia!

Ikos II

    In those days, the idolatrous Philistines, the enemies of God's people, gathered their armies together to smite Israel, and chief among their hosts was Goliath of Gath, a giant in stature, who challenged the mighty warriors of Saul's army to single combat; but in their sore fear at the sight of him they fled from before his face. Yet though he was but a youth, David went forth to meet the foe, taking up five smooth stones and his shepherd's sling, and smote the ungodly warrior a blow to the forehead, so that he fell dead upon the earth. Wherefore, we cry unto him:
    Rejoice, for thou didst go forth against the enemy in the name of the Lord of hosts;
    rejoice, for thou didst bring him low in the name of the God of the armies of Israel, Whom he had defied!
    Rejoice, for the Lord delivered him into thy hand;
    rejoice, for thou didst smite him as he blasphemed the living God!
    Rejoice, through thee all the people knew that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear;
    rejoice, for the battle was the Lord's, and He gave it into thy hands!
    Rejoice, for, seeing their champion fallen, the enemies of God's people did flee;
    rejoice, for the Philistines were driven out of Judah and Israel!
    Rejoice, for thou didst break asunder the bonds of the foe!
    rejoice, for thou didst cast away their yoke from the people of the Lord!
    Rejoice, for the righteous wrath of God was kindled against His enemies;
    rejoice, for the Lord wrought a great salvation for all Israel!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion III

    When the holy David returned from slaying the enemy of the Lord, the women of Israel came forth and joyfully sang his praises with timbrels and instruments of music; then Saul the king was moved to envy and jealousy, and sought occasion to slay him. But Jonathan, the son of the king, full of godly love, made covenant with David, to be his brother forever; and so great was their friendship and loyalty one to another that, pondering it, we are all moved to cry: Alleluia!

Ikos III

    David behaved himself more wisely than all the servants of the king, and his name grew in the esteem of the people; but the hatred which Saul the king nurtured against him increased, and he sought to slay him with a javelin. Then fled the righteous youth from the king's presence and went to the holy Prophet Samuel, the high priest of the Lord; and though the king sent many to arrest him, and at length came himself to take him, yet the Spirit of the Lord rendered all of them unable to act. Wherefore, perceiving God's mercy toward those who set their trust on Him, we cry:
    Rejoice, for when thou didst call upon the Lord, He hearkened unto thee;
    rejoice, for in thine affliction He enlarged thee!
    Rejoice, for God had compassion upon thee and heard thy prayer;
    rejoice, for He made wondrous His holy one!
    Rejoice, for the light of the countenance of the Most High was signed upon thee;
    rejoice, for He gave gladness to thy heart!
    Rejoice, for the Lord alone made thee to dwell in hope;
    rejoice, for in peace didst thou lay thyself down and sleep!
    Rejoice, for when thou didst awake, He helped thee;
    rejoice, for thou didst sacrifice a sacrifice of righteousness, and hoped in the Lord!
    Rejoice, for the King of heaven attended to the voice of thy supplications;
    rejoice, for thou didst worship in His holy tabernacle, in the fear of Him!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion IV

    When David fled from Saul the king, who unjustly desired his death, he went to the tabernacle of the Lord, to the priest Ahimelech, and asked him for bread for himself and his companions in flight; and the pious priest, seeing his need, gave him all that he had-the hallowed loaves of showbread, which had been sanctified and offered in sacrifice unto the Most High-and they did eat. This deed did our Savior Jesus Christ in latter times recount, rebuking the hypocritical Pharisees, who had accused Him and His disciples of violating the law of God; for, blinded by their malice, they were incapable of singing: Alleluia!

Ikos IV

    As David hid from Saul, many joined him in the wilderness to share his privations; but when the king learned that Ahimelech the priest and those with him had given David food and a sword, he accused them of treason and commanded his henchman to slay them all, eighty-five in number. But when he heard of this crime, David lamented the slaughter of the innocent ministers of God, and took the son of Ahimelech under his protection to safeguard him. Wherefore, mindful of his reverence for the priests of God and his compassion for the bereaved, we cry:
    Rejoice, thou who in thy filial love didst hide thy parents from the wrath of Saul;
    rejoice, thou who didst straightway obey the divine command which the Prophet Gad delivered unto thee!
    Rejoice, thou who didst lament the death of the priests slain by Saul on thine account;
    rejoice, thou who gavest refuge to Abiathar, who survived the slaughter!
    Rejoice, for the Lord guided thee in the ways of His righteousness;
    rejoice, for, because of thine enemies, He made straight thy way before Him!
    Rejoice, for He saved thee from those who persecuted thee, and delivered thee;
    rejoice, for righteous was thy help from God, Who saveth all who are upright of heart!
    Rejoice, for thou gavest praise unto the Lord according to His righteousness;
    rejoice, for thou didst ever chant unto the name of the Lord Most High!
    Rejoice, for thou didst confess the Lord with thy whole heart;
    rejoice, for thou didst tell of all His wonders!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion V

    Learning that David was in the wilderness of En-gedi, Saul took an army and went forth in pursuit of him. But David and his followers hid themselves from the wrath of the king in a certain cave. Now when Saul entered this very cave, to use it as a privy, the men of David sought to persuade him to slay the king; yet David would not lift his hand against the Lord's anointed, but instead stealthily cut off the back part of Saul's robe, and later, displaying the cloth as proof, declared from afar his innocence of the treason of which the king thought him guilty. Wherefore, marvelling at his patience and forbearance, we cry: Alleluia!

Ikos V

    Another time, Saul again set out with his army to take David and his men, and they encamped in the wilderness of Ziph. But David, who saw them from afar, waited until all were asleep, and penetrated the guard, and came upon the king asleep, with his spear planted in the ground next to his head. Then David's companion urged him to slay the sleeping king, but David said: "Who can stretch forth his hand against the Lord's anointed, and be guiltless?"; and he took instead Saul's spear and cruse of water, and afterwards cried out from afar that he was guiltless of all enmity toward the king, displaying the spear and cruse as proof. Wherefore, honoring his piety, we cry aloud such things as these:
    Rejoice, thou who wast glad and rejoiced in the Lord;
    rejoice, thou who chanted unto the name of the Most High!
    Rejoice, for thou didst declare all the praises of God in the gates of the daughter of Sion;
    rejoice, for thou didst walk blameless and work righteousness, speaking truth in thy heart!   
    Rejoice, for thou didst say unto the Lord: Thou art my Lord;
    rejoice, for the Lord was the portion of thine inheritance and of thy cup!
    Rejoice, for in thee and all the saints that are in His earth hath the Lord been wondrous;
    rejoice, for He hath wrought all His desires in thee!
    Rejoice, for thou didst bless the Lord Who gave thee understanding;
    rejoice, for thou didst behold the Lord ever before thee!
    Rejoice, for God was at thy right hand, that thou mightest never be shaken;
    rejoice, for thus was thy heart filled with joy and thy tongue with gladness!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion VI

    In those days, the Philistines again rose up against Israel, and prevailed in battle; and Jonathan, the friend of David, was slain; and Saul the king, filled with despair, fell upon his sword. And the godless infidels conquered and inhabited the cities of Israel. But when David heard of the slaughter from one who escaped, he mourned and wept, and rent his garments, and fasted for Saul and Jonathan, and all the fallen. But the Lord God commanded David to go unto the city of Hebron, whither the men of Judah came, and anointed David king. And all cried out to the Almighty: Alleluia!

Ikos VI

    As David found favor with the Most High, his wisdom and skill increased; but the house of Saul waned in power. Wherefore, David became king over all Jud?a and Israel, and established Jerusalem, even Sion, as his city, and thither did he bring the ark of the covenant. And so great was his joy and zeal, that he danced in ecstasy before the ark, clad only in a linen cloth, with jubilation and the sound of the trumpet, and offered sacrifice unto the Lord in thanksgiving. Wherefore, mindful of his surpassing love for the God of Israel, we cry to him such things as these:
    Rejoice, thou who blessed thy people in the name of God;
    rejoice, thou who offered up burnt offerings before the Lord!
    Rejoice, thou who didst long to build a temple for the Most High;
    rejoice, thou whose throne the Almighty vowed to establish forever!
    Rejoice, thou who didst conquer all the nations which threatened the people of God;
    rejoice, thou who didst smite Moab and the Syrians of Damascus!
    Rejoice, thou who didst subdue Edom and the Ammonites;
    rejoice, for the Lord preserved thee whithersoever thou didst go!
    Rejoice, thou who didst exercise justice and righteousness unto all thy people;
    rejoice, thou who didst love the Lord with all thy strength!
    Rejoice, for the Lord was thy foundation, thy refuge and thy deliverer;
    rejoice, for He led thee forth into a spacious place!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion VII

    After David established his rule throughout Israel, he inquired: "Is there yet any who is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan's sake?" And one who had served in Saul's household said unto King David: "Jonathan hath yet a son, Mephibosheth, who is lame in his feet." Then, full of joy, the king sent and fetched to his court the son of his sworn brother, and gave over to him all that had belonged to Saul and his house, and provided him with sustenance daily at the royal table, as though he were one of his own sons. And marvelling at his generosity and loving-kindness, we cry out to God: Alleluia!

Ikos VII

    Overcome by lust, David sinned with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, one of his warriors, and she conceived his child; then, to cover his sin, he had the man sent into the forefront of the battle against the Ammonites, where he was slain by the foe; and David took the widow to wife. But Nathan, the prophet of the Most High, rebuked the king by a parable, and, mindful of the magnitude of the evil he had wrought in the sight of God, David said: "I have sinned against the Lord", and he repented his iniquity. Wherefore, in thanksgiving for the words of penitence which he hath bequeathed to us, we cry:
    Rejoice, for God had mercy on thee, according to His great mercy;
    rejoice, for according to the multitude of His compassions He blotted out thy transgression!
    Rejoice, for He washed thee thoroughly from thine iniquity;
    rejoice, for He cleansed thee from thy sin!
    Rejoice, for the hidden and secret things of the Lord's wisdom did He make manifest unto thee;
    rejoice, for He sprinkled thee with hyssop, and thou wast made clean!
    Rejoice, for the Most High washed thee, and thou wast made whiter than snow;
    rejoice, for the Almighty made thee to hear joy and gladness!
    Rejoice, for He turned His face away from thy sins;
    rejoice, for He blotted out all thine iniquities!
    Rejoice, for God created in thee a clean heart, and renewed a right spirit within thee;
    rejoice, for He did not cast thee away from His presence, nor did He take His Holy Spirit from thee!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion VIII

    When Nathan the prophet denounced David for his sin, he declared unto him the sentence of the Lord, saying: "I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and the sword shall never depart from thee." And the words of the Lord were fulfilled in David's sons, Absalom and Amnon; for the one slew the other, and fled, and rose up against his father, to usurp his throne; and David in sadness was compelled to abandon Jerusalem his city. Yet was his trust in the Lord his God, and he did not cease to chant continually: Alleluia!

Ikos VIII

    David departed from Jerusalem, and Absalom, his son, entered the city and the king's palace, and set himself up to rule in his stead; and he dishonored his father's house. And this unworthy son dared also to assemble a mighty army to pursue his father, and there was a great battle, and Joab the general slew the hapless rebel; but David, when he heard this, covered his face, and wept bitterly, saying: "O Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!" Wherefore, marvelling at thy paternal love, we cry to thee:
    Rejoice, for thou didst acknowledge the evil which thou hadst done before God;
    rejoice, for He restored unto thee the joy of His salvation!
    Rejoice, for with His governing Spirit did He establish thee;
    rejoice, for thou didst teach transgressors the ways of the Lord!
    Rejoice, for through thy zeal did the ungodly turn back unto Him;    
    rejoice, for the Most High delivered thee from thy blood-guiltiness!
    Rejoice, for thy tongue rejoiceth in His righteousness;
    rejoice, for He opened thy lips, and thy mouth declared His praise!
    Rejoice, for thy broken spirit was a sacrifice unto God;
    rejoice, for thy contrite and humbled heart did He not despise!
    Rejoice, for in His good pleasure the Lord did good unto Sion;
    rejoice, for He was pleased with thy sacrifice of righteousness, with thine oblation and whole-burnt offerings!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion IX

    When David was full of years, the Philistines again rose up against Israel, and foremost among them were the sons of the giant Goliath, whom the king had slain in his youth. But the armies of the people of God prevailed in battle, and David extolled the Lord of hosts, crying melodiously: Alleluia!

Ikos IX

    Lifting up his voice in thanksgiving unto the Most High, David the king chanted in sweet psalmody, saying: "I will give thanks unto Thee, O Lord, among the nations, and I will sing praises unto Thy name!" And his lips were filled with gratitude for the God of Jacob, Who was for him a tower of salvation, and showed mercy to His anointed, unto David and to his seed. Wherefore, grateful also for the psalms he hath bequeathed us, we cry to him:
    Rejoice, for the Lord delivered thee out of the hand of all thine enemies;
    rejoice, for He is thy rock and thy fortress, and thy deliverer!
    Rejoice, for He is thy shield and the horn of thy salvation;
    rejoice, for He is thy high tower, thy refuge and savior!
    Rejoice, for when thine enemies came upon thee in the day of calamity, the Lord was thy stay;
    rejoice, for He delivered thee, because He delighted in thee!
    Rejoice, for He hath rewarded thee according to thy righteousness;
    rejoice, for He hath recompensed thee according to the cleanness of thy hands!
    Rejoice, for thou didst keep the ways of the Lord;
    rejoice, for thou didst not depart from thy God!
    Rejoice, for thou wast upright before the Most High;
    rejoice, for thou didst keep thyself from thine iniquity!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion X

    The spirit of the prophecy came upon David the king, the anointed of the Most High, and he gave utterance concerning his kingship, saying: "The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and His word was in my tongue. The God of Israel hath said: 'He who ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.' Although my house is not so with God, yet He hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure; for this is all my salvation, and all my desire." And with sweet hymnody he chanted unto the Almighty: Alleluia!

Ikos X

    When David was an old man, Satan stood against Israel, and enticed the king to reckon the number of the people of God. But the Lord was sore displeased with this census, and sent unto the king the Prophet Gad, requiring David to choose between three years of famine, destruction at the hand of his enemies within three months, or three days of pestilence throughout the land. And as the pestilence descended upon Israel, David cried unto God, saying: "Is it not I who commanded the people to be numbered? Even I it is who hath sinned and done evil indeed; but as for these, what have they done? Let Thy hand, I pray Thee, O Lord my God, be on me, and on my father's house, but not on Thy people, that they should be plagued!" And the Lord withdrew the angel of His wrath; wherefore, mindful of His forbearance, we cry to His saint:
    Rejoice, for thou wast a fruitful olive tree in the house of the          Lord;
    rejoice, for thou didst hope in the mercy of God forever!
    Rejoice, for thou didst give praise unto Him forever, for what He had done;
    rejoice, for thou didst wait upon His name, for it is good before His saints!
    Rejoice, for God helped thee, and the Lord was the protector of thy soul;
    rejoice, for He brought evils upon thine enemies, and utterly destroyed them by His truth!
    Rejoice, for thou didst willingly sacrifice unto the Most High;
    rejoice, for thou didst confess His name, for it is good!
    Rejoice, for He delivered thee out of every affliction;
    rejoice, for thine eye looked down upon the enemies of His people!
    Rejoice, for thou waited for God, Who saved thee from faintheartedness and from tempest;
    rejoice, for evening, morning and noonday didst thou tell of the mercy of the Lord, and He heard thy voice!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion XI

    In his distress, David besought the Lord's mercy for his people, the Lord commanded him to build an altar on Mount Sion, on the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite; and when David had purchased this place, and built the altar, and set his offerings upon it, the Lord sent fire from heaven to consume them utterly, in token of His forgiveness. Then did David begin to assemble that which was necessary to build in that very place a temple for the Lord of hosts, wherein all the faithful might cry: Alleluia!

Ikos XI

    Then David summoned Solomon his heir, and all the princes of Jud?a and Israel, and said: "The word of the Lord came to me, saying: 'Thou hast shed blood abundantly, and hast made great wars; thou shalt not build a house unto My name. Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of peace: he shall build a house for My name.'" And he said to the princes of Israel: "Now set your heart and your soul to seek the Lord your God; arise, therefore, and build the sanctuary of the Lord God, to bring the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and the holy vessels of God, into the house that is to be built to the name of the Lord." Wherefore, marvelling at his love and zeal for the Most High, we cry unto him:
    Rejoice, for in God didst thou commend thy words, in God didst thou set thy hope;
    rejoice, for thy life didst thou declare unto Him!
    Rejoice, for thou didst keep watch for the Lord, thy helper;
    rejoice, for He made His mercy manifest unto thee among thine enemies!
    Rejoice, for thou shalt dwell in His tabernacle unto the ages;
    rejoice, for thou shalt be sheltered in the shelter of His wings!
    Rejoice, for thou shalt abide before the face of God in the age to come;
    rejoice, for thou shalt chant eternally unto His name unto the ages!
    Rejoice, for thou didst appear before Him in His sanctuary, to see His power and His glory;
    rejoice, for thou didst remember the Lord upon thy bed, and at the dawn thou didst meditate upon Him!
    Rejoice, for thy soul cleaved after the Most High;
    rejoice, for His right hand was quick to help thee.
    Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion XII

    Taking up his psaltery, David the king received inspiration from the All-holy Spirit, and chanted prophetically concerning the coming of the Messiah, Who is his descendent according to the flesh, His baptism, His suffering on the Cross and death, His resurrection and ascension. Wherefore, obedient to his command, we chant with understanding unto the Lord Who filled his mouth with praise: Alleluia!

Ikos XII

    Casting ahead the gaze of his prophetic eyes, the prophet king declared unto God: "Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings hast Thou perfected praise", foreseeing the Lord's triumphal entry into Sion; and perceiving from afar the hatred of the scribes and Sadducees for Him, he said: "The rulers were assembled together, against the Lord." And truly beholding His voluntary sufferings, he prophesied the very words Christ uttered upon the Cross, saying: "My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me? They have parted My garments amongst themselves, and for My vesture have they cast lots. They have pierced My hands and My feet. They gave Me gall for My food, and for My thirst they gave Me vinegar." Wherefore, full of awe at the divine grace imparted unto him, we say:
    Rejoice, for thou didst cry: "Let God arise!";
    rejoice, for thou didst say: "Let His enemies be scattered!"
    Rejoice, for thou didst exclaim: "Thou leddest captivity captive";
    rejoice, for thou didst declare: "Now I will arise, saith the Lord!"
    Rejoice, for thou didst shout: "God is gone up in jubilation!";
    rejoice, for thou hast said: "The Lord ascendeth with the voice of the trumpet!"
    Rejoice, for thou didst cry unto the heavens: "Lift up your gates, and the King of glory shall enter in!";
    rejoice, for thou didst declare unto the angels: "The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory!"
    Rejoice, for thou didst bless the name of the glory of God forever;
    rejoice, for thou didst confess Him among the peoples, with instruments of psalmody!
    Rejoice, for the Lord Almighty hath comforted thee;
    rejoice, for out of the depths of the earth did He bring thee up.
   

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion XIII

    Blessed art thou, O holy king and prophet David, for the All-holy Spirit, abiding within thee, filled thy mouth with the praises of the Most High, and by thine inspired words doth teach us how rightly to worship the consubstantial Trinity! For evening, morning and at noontide, seven times a day, our divine glorification beginneth, proceedeth and concludeth with thy wondrous psalms. Wherefore, following thy marvellous works, we all cry out unto God: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

    Blessed art thou, O holy king and prophet David, for the All-holy Spirit, abiding within thee, filled thy mouth with the praises of the Most High, and by thine inspired words doth teach us how rightly to worship the consubstantial Trinity! For evening, morning and at noontide, seven times a day, our divine glorification beginneth, proceedeth and concludeth with thy wondrous psalms. Wherefore, following thy marvellous works, we all cry out unto God: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Blessed art thou, O holy king and prophet David, for the All-holy Spirit, abiding within thee, filled thy mouth with the praises of the Most High, and by thine inspired words doth teach us how rightly to worship the consubstantial Trinity! For evening, morning and at noontide, seven times a day, our divine glorification beginneth, proceedeth and concludeth with thy wondrous psalms. Wherefore, following thy marvellous works, we all cry out unto God: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

The foregoing kontakion is recited thrice, whereupon Ikos I and Kontakion I are repeated. Ikos I

    When Saul, the King of Israel, disobeyed the command of God, and the Lord rejected him from being king, He sent His high priest, the holy Prophet Samuel, to Bethlehem of Jud?a, where he took David, the least among the sons of Jesse, from among the flocks of the fields, and anointed him king with a horn of oil, so that the Spirit of the Lord came upon the holy youth. Wherefore, mindful of his humility and favor before the Lord, we cry unto him:
    Rejoice, for thou didst not walk in the counsel of the ungodly;
    rejoice, for thou didst not stand in the way of sinners!
    Rejoice, for thy will was in the law of the Lord;
    rejoice, for in His law thou didst meditate day and night!
    Rejoice, for thou wast established as king by God;
    rejoice, for thou didst proclaim His commandments!
    Rejoice, for thou didst serve the Lord with fear;
    rejoice, for thou didst rejoice in Him with trembling!
    Rejoice, for the Lord was thy Helper and glory;
    rejoice, for when thou didst cry unto Him, He heard thee!
    Rejoice, for God smote all who without cause were thine enemies;
    rejoice, for His blessing was ever upon thee, who put thy trust in Him!

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

Kontakion I

    With hymns and psalms let us honor the holy King David, who of all the sons of Israel was chosen by God to reign over His elect, and, through his seed, gave rise in the flesh to the Messiah, our Lord, God and Savior, Jesus Christ; and let us say unto him: As thou wast delivered from hades by our Redeemer at His glorious resurrection, and standest now with boldness before the throne of His divine majesty, teach us to sing to Him a new song, that we may cry unto thee:

Rejoice, O holy king and prophet David, thou ancestor of God and singer of His praises!

PRAYER TO THE HOLY PROPHET KING DAVID

    O holy king and prophet David, who according to the flesh art the ancestor of Christ Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer Who hath delivered us from sin and death! When thou wast a youth, tending the sheep of thy father in the fields of Bethlehem of Jud?a, thou wast chosen by the Lord, the Good Shepherd, to tend the reason-endowed sheep, His elect, the people of Israel; wherefore, the Spirit of the Most High descended upon thee and endowed thee with His peerless gifts: to rule with justice and prudence; to return good for the evils done thee; to set at nought the wiles and machinations of the enemies of the Almighty; to make music of such exceeding great beauty that the wicked demons took to flight at their sound, which the Holy Church useth in worshiping our all-merciful God; and to offer unto Him a ready penitence for the sins thou didst commit, which serveth as a model of Christian repentance for us all. For this cause, marvelling at thy piety and glorifying the one God in Trinity, Who hath glorified thee and all the saints of ages past, we beseech thee: As thou standest now in the heavens before the dread throne of Christ Jesus the Messiah, the Scion of thy royal lineage, having been raised up by Him, at the time of His resurrection, from the nethermost parts of hades, where thou didst await His all-glorious coming, earnestly entreat Him in behalf of us, thine unworthy servants, who honor thy holy memory and sing praises unto Him with the words of thine inspired hymnody, that He take pity on us, forgive us our iniquities, and count us worthy to stand with thee at the right hand of His divine majesty when He shall come to judge the living and the dead. For unto Him is due all glory, honor and worship, with His unoriginate Father and His all-holy, good and life-creating Spirit, now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.