Aposticha of Lauds. Of the Apostles.

Glory. Both now.

**Theotokion.***

Apostles of Christ, workmen of the Saviour, bearing the Cross like a plough on your shoulders, you purified the conquered earth of the deception of idols and sowed the word of Faith, and so you are rightly honoured, holy Apostles of Christ.

Glorious Apostles, pillars of the Church, Heralds of the truth, as lighted torches you set fire to every error and enlightened the human race with the fire of the Spirit; therefore we ask: implore our Saviour and God to give peace to the world and to save our souls.

Of the Martyrs.

Breathing as one, looking to one end the victorious Martyrs found one road of life, death for the sake of Christ, as they emulated each other’s end - O the wonder! - grasping tortures like treasures, they said to one another: Should we even now not die, we shall most surely die, and by birth we shall serve what is due; let us perform the duty which loves honour, purchasing life with death. At their prayers, O God, have mercy on us.

***Today Judas watches. Σήμερον γρηγορεῖ.**

Alas, I have became a haunt of pleasures, wretch that I am! Therefore I ever appear a laughing-stock to my foes; therefore I fall down before you, holy Virgin; see my tribulation, offer me help, cleanse me by tears and deliver me, I pray, O Pure one, and let those who rejoice at my destruction be put to shame.