Ode 8. The Irmos.

Of the Bodiless Powers. Another Irmos.

The Lord who was glorified on the holy mountain and who made known to Moses in the bush by fire the mystery of the Ever-virgin, praise and exalt to all the ages.

Subject to the sensual pleasures of the flesh, separated far from you, O Word, and grown like all the beasts, do not despise me, Saviour, but turn me back before the end and save me.

In no way do I desist from offences, and though I cry, ‘I have sinned, wretch that I am’, I never do deeds of repentance. Take pity on me, Lord, and give compunction to my hardened soul.

Of the Martyrs.

The noble Champions of the Lord, baptised in streams of blood, were not defiled by any second stain; and therefore crowned as victors, they dance unceasingly among the Angels.

Strengthened by the hopes of things to come, the noble Martyrs for true religion endured the heavy mass of tortures, and having died they stand unceasingly around the Master’s throne.

O Virgin, you are the confirmation of those who stand, the setting upright of those who fall; and so raise me, who have fallen, that I may glorify you, O Full of grace.

Accept those who stand around you and who hymn your ineffable and inexpressible glory, as they now entreat you, O Christ, to the ages.

Accept, O only Good One, the hosts of Angels, who entreat for us, as they hymn you, O Christ, to the ages.

With your dazzling rays, Mother of God, you make bright those who faithfully sing and hymn you to the ages.