Ode 1. Tone 4. Irmos.

Katavasia, the Irmos of the 1st Canon.

I will open my mouth and it will be filled with the Spirit, and I will utter a word to the Queen and Mother, and I shall be seen keeping glad festival, and rejoicing I will sing her wonders. **Twice.**

As all-pure Mother of God, grant me wisdom, and give me eloquence that I may radiantly praise the wonders of your holy Protection, through which you always protect those who honour you.

You unfolded from above the lighting blaze of your Protecting Veil, and sheltered under it not only the queen of cites but your whole race that bears the name of Christ.

Venerable Andrew saw you of old in an ineffable vision in the church of Vlachernae, Pure Virgin, protecting the ends of the world by the unfurling of your godly Robe.

Your race’s army, taking invincible strength from your Protection, defeated regiments of foes and won a radiant victory. And so, Sovereign Lady, it sings your mighty deeds.

Second Canon, of which the acrostic is:

I hymn the Protection of the Mother of God. By Gerasimos. ****

Protection and fervent help of the world, Pure Virgin Mother, who gave birth ineffably to God the Word, by your rich grace make clear my voice who magnify in song your most wondrous Protection.

Adorned with embroideries of the Spirit as queen of the universe, and blazing with rays brighter than the sun, you appeared and spiritually unfolded your Protecting Veil, and you protected your people, O Virgin, who hope in you.

The cloud in the Law, which covered the Tent of Witness, prefigured of old your holy Protection; for each day you cover, bedew and warm the Church, O All-blameless, with the overshadowing of your Protecting Veil.

Full of light, full of mercy, Sovereign Lady, you were mystically present in the church of Vlachernae, and with splendour you displayed the singular grace of your kindness towards us by the unfurling of your Protecting Veil. Therefore, as is fitting, we sing your praise.

First Canon.