Ode 6. Irmos.

Of the Martyrs

“Surrounded by an abyss of faults, I call upon the unfathomable abyss of your compassion: O God, bring me up from corruption.”

Another Irmos

I was thrown down by the wickedness of the serpent and I lie on a bed of despair. Raise me up, O Christ, who set the paralytic upright with a word.

Buffeted by the blasts of the dragon’s breath and tossed about from every side by the waves of sin, save me as you saved Peter, O Lord, Lover of mankind.

Surpassing the bounds of nature, you endured torments beyond nature, and so, Martyrs, you were found worthy of good things beyond understanding.

As fair, as beautiful, as precious you have been united to the One who makes fair, the One who is beautiful, revered Martyrs, you intercede at all times on our behalf.

From all generations the Maker chose you, the beauty of Jacob whom he loved, O All-blameless, and having dawned from you he appeared.

The godlike imprints of your glory, source of light, O Master Christ, formed as rays of light with beams of shining light, abide for ever.

Strengthened with divine strength, the Seraphim cry aloud with never silent voices the thrice-holy hymn. They reveal to us how to honour the nature in three persons.

As of old the Lord swore in truth to David, he has fulfilled, by coming froth from your womb. For you have given birth, O Maiden, to him who reigns over the earth.