AT MATINS

Like waves of the sea my iniquities assail me; like a skiff on the ocean I am alone and storm-tossed by many offences. But guide me, Lord, to a fair haven through repentance and save me.

After the 1st reading from the Psalter, Kathismata of Compunction.

I am a fruitless tree, Lord, and of compunction I bear no fruit at all; and I wait to be cut down with fear, and I quail before the unsleeping fire; and so I implore you, before that constraint, turn me back and save me.

Tone 2

As you are source of compassion, grant us pity, Mother of God. Look on a people who have sinned, and show your power as always; for hoping in you we cry: Hail, as once Gabriel did, the chief Captain of the Bodiless Powers.

Verse: Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger; nor chastise me in your wrath.

Have mercy on me, said David, and I too cry to you: I have sinned, O Saviour, wipe away my sins through repentance and have mercy on me.

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

Have mercy on me, have mercy on me, lamented David for two sins; for ten thousand offences I cry to you: He watered his couch with tears, while I have not found one drop; I despair and entreat, have mercy on me, O God, according to your great mercy.

After the 2nd Reading, Kathismata of Compunction.

We magnify you, Mother of God, as we cry: Hail, closed gate, through which the Paradise of old has been opened for mankind.

Verse: Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger; nor chastise me in your wrath.

As you are source of compassion.

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.

All-holy Bodiless Choirs, entreat the good God and Master to spare us at the hour of judgement, to deliver us from the bitter punishment, the wickedness of demons, the blackness of the passions and from every threat, as we take refuge with love in your protection.

After the 3rd Reading, Kathismata.

The Saints, having you, who robe the heaven with clouds, as their robe, endured the torments of the lawless, and destroyed the error of idols; at their entreaties free us from the invisible foe, O Saviour, and save us.

Verse: God is wonderful in his Saints, the God of Israel.

What mother was ever heard to be a virgin? What virgin was ever known to be a mother? All that concerns you, Mother of God, is wondrous. And so with faith we magnify you.

Of the Martyrs.

Glory. Both now. Theotokion.