Ode 3. You are the foundation.

Glory. Both now. Theotokion. The same melody.

**S**o far beyond thought, all-honoured virgin, the love by which in Christ, united by the Spirit, you were bound to Paul.

Or Cross-Theotokion.

**T**he pleasurable enjoyment of earthly things had no strength to wound your mind, wounded by spiritual love.

**W**holly you had abandoned the passions of the flesh, all-praised Champion, and so you were not softened by your mother’s words.

By your intercessions, O All-pure, give us help, driving off the assaults of dread misfortunes.

You are the foundation, Lord, of those who have recourse to you. you are the light of those in darkness, and my spirit sings your praise.

Kathisma. Tone 8. The Wisdom and Word.

With longing for Christ through virtues you changed woman’s weakness to manly courage, and became through both the dwelling place of God: for you curtailed the darkness of the passions by an ascetic life, and as a martyr you became the boast of the contest; therefore you also shine as a beacon for the world, doubly flashing forth the beams of the Spirit. All-praised Protomartyr, intercede with Christ God that forgiveness of offences may be given to those who celebrate with love your holy memory.

As Virgin and the one who alone among women bore God in the flesh without seed all generations of mankind call you blessed; for the fire of the Godhead dwelt in you and you suckled as a babe the Creator and Lord; therefore we, the race of Angels and of men, fittingly glorify your all-holy Offspring, and in consort cry to you: Intercede with your Son and God that forgiveness of offences may be bestowed on those who celebrate with love your holy memory.

When she saw the Lamb and Shepherd and Redeemer on the Cross, with tears the Ewe-lamb lamented and bitterly cried out: The world rejoices, for it receives redemption, but my inmost being burns as I see your crucifixion, which you endure through your compassionate mercy. O long-suffering Lord, the depth of mercy and the well of goodness, be merciful, then, and bestow forgiveness of sins on your servants who hymn in faith your immaculate passion.