Ode 3. Irmos.

**Theotokion.**

Almighty, Most High, who bring all things out of nothing, created by the Word, perfected by the Spirit, establish me in your love.

You filled all the corners of the world with your inspired teaching; fill my soul with right actions and good thoughts, eye-witnesses of Christ.

From ten thousand stumbling blocks of the evil one, from every trouble, every compulsion, from distress, rescue me, Disciples of Christ.

Alas, my wretched and lowly soul, continually sinning and angering God, how can you ask for pardon, for you never make a break from wickedness?

Divine ladder, which Jacob saw, by which God came down and exalted us, with the Apostles insistently implore that he take pity on us.

Of the Saint.

You appeared as a sharpened sword of the Spirit, cutting off the evil tares of heretics, and smoothing a path of salvation for the faithful, wise father Nicholas.

O Saint, we entreat you as a source pouring forth springs of healings, dispel by your prayers the miry passions of us all, rescuing us from dangers and troubles.

By your valiant toils you cast down the foe; now too, by your holy prayers, Father Nicholas, strengthen against him our thoughts, grown weak with the floods of passions.

Mind cannot conceive the Offspring beyond mind of your wondrous child-bearing. Virgin Mother, who gave birth to God; and so I implore you give my mind the grace to glorify you always.