Ode 1. Tone 8. The Irmos.

The same Irmos.

Crossing the water as on dry land and fleeing the harsh misery of Egypt, the Israelite cried aloud, ‘To our Redeemer and our God now let us sing!’

From Gehenna, which I have gained for myself by my unnatural deeds, deliver me, my Redeemer, and ignite in my mind the blest fire of your love.

I have bowed down, darkened by passions, and condemned by reason, Lord, I am seen to be irrational; make my soul return to her senses, and by the judgements which you know, save me.

Of the Martyrs.

Their bodies racked by tortures, the victorious, all-praised Martyrs showed the unflinching rightness of their intent and their love for the Lord.

Many rivers of blood from the bodies of your glorious Champions smothered the thorns of mad idolatry by your power, O Merciful.

Give me healing, Pure Virgin, who am grievously sick with the death-bringing weakness of sufferings both flesh and soul.

Another Canon, of the Bodiless Powers, whose acrostic is the Alphabet.

As princes of the holy Angels and who enjoy the clear vision of God, intercede for us with the Giver of good and the Saviour.

Being held in the grip of strong temptations, we faithful now have recourse to you as protectors. Godlike Archangels, now earnestly entreat the Master.

Be for me a refuge, a haven, a wall and a protector, Virgin Mother of God, who gave birth to God in the flesh, the Redeemer and all-pitying.