Ode 5. Irmos.

The universe was amazed at your divine glory, for you, O Virgin, who knew not wedlock, held in your womb the God who is over all and gave birth to an eternal Son, who gives salvation as the prize to all who sing your praise. **Twice.**

Your suppliant people, O All-praised, celebrates the holy memory of your Protecting Veil, for you came to the church of Vlachernae and there, O Immaculate, you spiritually protected all those who faithfully glorify you.

By your visitation, pure Maiden, destroy the insolence of the hostile lion who goes roaring each day to swallow down your inheritance, and overthrow his arrogance and pride.

As we celebrate the memory of your light-bearing Protection, we sing you thanksgivings for salvation, O Virgin, for you have delivered us from bitter slavery and mightily humbled the overweening enemy who came against us.

As a godly jar of alabaster of the All-holy Spirit, Mother of God full of grace, show me, who with faith ever take refuge under your Protection and sing the praise of your glory, to be a vessel of divine grace.

Second Canon. Why have you rejected me?

Your holy Protection, like a cloud all of light unfurled upon your servants, O Maiden, as Isaias says, rescues from the evil heat of the assault of Beliar, and bedews us with your grace.

You clearly displayed a great wonder, O All-blameless, for the safe-keeping of your faithful people; for you sheltered them invisibly with your godlike hands by your honoured Veil. Therefore rejoicing we all praise you.

In the wilderness of old a shining cloud protected the Israelite people, O Maiden; while now your all-radiant Protecting Veil protects us and guides us, and directs us to the light of your Son’s commandments every day.

The universe was amazed at your divine glory, for you, O Virgin, who knew not wedlock, held in your womb the God who is over all and gave birth to an eternal Son, who gives salvation as the prize to all who sing your praise.

First Canon.