MATINS

The 1st Antiphon of the 4th Tone and the Prokeimenon.

After the 2nd Reading, Kathisma.

**After the 1st Reading from the Psalter, Kathisma.**

Then are sung the following two Canons of the Mother of God.

Tone 1. The soldiers watching.

We sing the praise, Pure Virgin, of your holy Protection, which, in your goodness and motherly compassion, at every moment protects and watches over us, whom you have declared to be your lot and chosen part. But guard us also, Sovereign Lady, in future need.

Tone 4. Speedily anticipate.

Venerable Andrew was amazed when in the church of Vlachernae he saw you unfolding for us your godly Robe, which is guarded there, pure Maiden, and reveals to all the grace of your protection, through which you protect and save us from every affliction.

After the Polyeleos, Kathisma.

Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

As you unfold each day your holy and wondrous Protection, which the cloud in the Law prefigured, you enfold your race, O Maiden, that looks intently for your goodness, and ever awaits the help which you give, Mother of God. And at all times turn the mad rage of enemies from us who sing the praise of the greatness of your wonders, as you intercede with your Son and God to grant forgiveness of faults to us who celebrate with love your all-radiant Protection.

I will remember your name in every generation.

**Verse: I will be protected by the protection of your wings.**

**Matins Gospel of the 8th of September.**

**Psalm 50.**

At the prayers of the Mother of God, O Merciful One, blot out the multitude of my transgressions.

At the prayers of the all-immaculate, O Merciful One, blot out the multitude of my transgressions.

Idiomel. Tone 6.

Verse Have mercy on me, O God, according to your great mercy; according to the fullness of your compassion blot out my offences.

Today the all-praised Virgin, unfolding her shining Protection, manifested clearly to the faithful her rich good favour in good times and in afflictions; therefore as we, who are protected by her, praise her grace, let us cry out with joy: Hail, Full of grace, Mother of God, who save our race and safely accompany us and guide us to the way of salvation.

First Canon, of which the acrostic is:

You are the Protection of believers,

O Virgin. By Gerasimos. ****