Ode 6. Irmos.

Do not despise, O Lover of mankind, those who have reached the end of the ages and are in danger of being submerged by waves of temptations as they cry: Save us, O Saviour, as you saved the Prophet from the beast.

Puffed up in thought as once the Pharisee of old I have fallen with a dreadful fall, and seeing it the deceiver is delighted; O Christ, who humbled him by the Cross, take pity on me who have been terribly humbled.

I have become the friend of sin, as no one who has ever lived, and I have squandered your long-suffering, wretch that I am, yet still I remain unfeeling: turn me back in your compassion.

Of the Martyrs.

With reckless purpose the lawless condemned the holy to fire and swords and racks and revealed them to be truly brighter than gold and heirs of Christ.

Entering a stadium full of contests, extraordinary struggles and unnatural torments, you conquered the prince of darkness and from God, O Athletes, received your crowns.

Ark of the Testament, truly holy table, our mercy-seat, living temple of God, golden lampstand, true Mother of the Creator, we sing your praise.