AT MATINS

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

Glory. Both now.

**Theotokion.**

Visit my humble soul, Lord, that has squandered its whole life in sins; receive me as you did the Harlot and save me.

After the 2nd reading, others.

**Theotokion.**

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

Glory. Both now.

**Theotokion***.*

As I sail the sea of this present life I think on the abyss of my many evils, and as I have no thought as helmsman, I cry aloud to you in Peter’s words. Save me, Christ God, save me as you love mankind!

After the 3rd reading, others.

Fearful the mystery and marvellous the wonder, how the Virgin bore you the Creator of all things and after childbirth remained still untouched and Virgin. O God, born of her, establish the faith, subdue the nations and give peace to the world, as you love mankind.

Glory. Both now.

With haste let us enter the bridal-chamber of Christ together and let us all hear the blessed voice of our God himself. Come, lovers of the heavenly glory, let us become companions of the wise virgins and make our lamps radiant through the faith.

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

Consider, my soul, how we are to stand before the Judge. In that dread hour fearful thrones are set in place, the deeds of mortals are examined; then the Judge is implacable, for fire runs before the judgement seat, with its roaring like a raging sea, and smothers those who have offended. Consider these things daily, my soul, and set your works to rights.

As truly and surely Mother of God, who with boldness as a Mother intercede with your Son, protect above all the flock which runs to your protection, takes refuge in you as harbour and wall, the only defence of the human race.

O Trinity above all godhead, the choirs of Bodiless Powers unceasingly hymn you with immaterial mouths, and stand before you with fear as they cry: Holy. Three-personned Nature, at their prayers have mercy on that which your own hands have fashioned, only lover of mankind.

God is wonderful in his Saints, the God of Israel. ****

Of the Martyrs.

To-day the hosts of Angels are present to enlighten the minds of the faithful at the memory of the Champions and to make the whole world bright with grace; besought through them, O God, grant us your great mercy.

To the one who was brought up in the Temple, in the Holy of Holies, to the one who was clothed in faith and wisdom and measureless virginity, Gabriel the Chief Captain offered the greeting from heaven and his Hail: Hail, blessed one! Hail, glorified one! The Lord is with you.