AT MATINS

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

Glory. Both now.

**Theotokion.**

When the judge takes his seat and the Angels stand round, the trumpet sounds and the flame burns, what will you do, my soul, as your brought to judgement? For then your dread deeds are present, your hidden crimes examined; and so before the end cry out: O God have mercy on me and save me!

After the 2nd reading others.

**Theotokion.**

O Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger, or chastise me in your wrath.

Glory. Both now.

**Theotokion.**

My soul, what is here is temporary, what is there eternal; I see the court and the Judge upon his throne, and I tremble at the sentence; then turn back with speed: the judgement is unrelenting.

After the 3rd reading, others.

Let us believers praise.

Glory. Both now.

Fervent and invincible defence, sure hope that cannot be put to shame, wall, protection and haven of those who flee to you, pure Ever-Virgin; with the Angels implore your Son and God to give peace to the world, salvation and his great mercy.

Let us all keep vigil, and let us all go to meet Christ with much oil and shining lamps, that we may be worthy to enter the bridal chamber; for the one who is found outside the door cries out to God in vain: Have mercy on me!

O Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger, or chastise me in your wrath.

As I lie on a bed of many sins I despoiled of my hope of salvation; for the sleep of my sloth invites punishment for my soul; but you, O God, born of a Virgin, rouse me to sung your praise, that I may glorify you.

O All-blameless, holier than the Cherubim and higher than the heavens, as we confess you to be in truth Mother of God, we sinners have you as defence, and in temptations we find salvation; and so do not cease to intercede for us, the strength and refuge of our souls.

Let us believers praise.

I tremble at the fearful judgement, and I shudder at the Judge’s righteous sentence; for my conscience ever questions me; but living with indifference I am at a loss and I quail. By your holy prayers, Archangels, who watch over believers, rescue me from the fire.

Of the Martyrs.

God is wonderful in his saints, the God of Israel.

The memory of the Champions shines to-day, for it takes its radiance from heaven; the choir of Angels keeps festival, and the human race feasts with them, and so they intercede with the Lord to have mercy on our souls.

Let us believers praise.

Gabriel marvellously brought to you on earth heaven’s Hail; for seeing the Maker of the Angels incarnate in you, he sang you the song of joy, O Honoured One; through it teaching mortals that you the only cause of joy have appeared to all mankind.