Ode 7. The Irmos.

The three Youths of old did not worship the golden image, object of Persian reverence, as they sang in the midst of the furnace, ‘God of our Fathers, blessed are you!’

Christ, the light of the world, revealed you, light-bearing Apostles, to be a light that ends the darkness of deception and enlightens the minds of believers.

Smash the snares which the malignant one has set for us, light-bearing Apostles, and level out for us, who have recourse to you, paths of repentance.

Inspired Apostles of the Lord, you are divine salt; purify my soul, which through passions of the flesh has lost its savour, and bring believers back to life.

Beauty of Jacob, make my soul radiant with forms of beauty, I beg, as with the Apostles you now entreat the One who was born from your pure blood.

Of the Saint.

When Arius the madman was once ravaging the Lord’s people, you throttled him

with the cords of your words as a true chief shepherd, Father Nicholas.

In holiness you reached the end of your life and you dwell with the Apostles, Father Nicholas, and you send hallowing and enlightenment to those who devoutly call you blessed.

We ever call upon you, Father Nicholas, as a ready deliverer, as fervent helper, to deliver us from the passions and from unexpected temptations which assail us.

Pure Virgin, lead me to the light, who am darkened in soul by indifference, kindling again the lamp of my heart with good zeal, that I may glorify you.