Ode 9. The Irmos.

Of the Saint. Same Irmos.

O Isaias, dance! The Virgin was with child, and she has borne a Son, Emmanuel, both God and man; and Orient is his name; whom we magnify, as we call the Virgin blessed.

By the radiance of divine virtues you were spiritually revealed as starry heavens, with Christ in your midst like a sun, and you renewed the fullness of the earth, wise Apostles, therefore we call you blessed.

Bearing the marks of Christ in your godly body like an all-fair adornment , wise Apostles, by your intercessions with the Lord heal my soul, worn down by the arrows of the demons.

As I lie in the lowest pit of sin and with my soul burdened by the slumber of dreadful sloth, save me, O Word, through your Disciples, as you raised Lazarus.

Direct the ways of my soul to the paths of your unerring commandments, O Word of God, as you have the pure and immaculate one who gave you birth, and your all-wise Apostles imploring you.

Called a Hierarch inspired by God, you kept all Christ’s commandments, and so you have become a godly guardian for the faithful, Father Nicolas, protecting them from all abuse and oppression.

As you once nourished your city when it lacked bread, as a good shepherd, venerable Father Nicolas, so too nourish with spiritual bread my soul, fortunate to have you as protector.

Venerable Shepherd, we entreat you, the great sun of Christ’s Church, that is fixed on high, with shining lamps of light banish the darkness of sin from our souls.

The glorious day of Christ’s Coming is at hand, as it written. Sterile soul, cast off sloth and fervently cry out to Christ, ‘Lord, save me at Nicolas’ entreaties!’

The Prophet saw you as a shining lampstand, bearing Christ the spiritual lamp, through whom we, who lay in the darkness of evils, have been enlightened, O Mother of God, as we call you blessed.