Ode 6. Irmos

Of the Forerunner. The same Irmos.

I imitate the Prophet Jonas as I cry, ‘Free my life from corruption, good Lord, and save me, Saviour of the world, as I cry, ‘Glory to you!’

The bones of my wretched soul have been crushed, and I am bowed down by the weight of many pleasures. Help me, O Christ, the only hope of all. ****

Fallen into an ocean of dread deeds and the tempest of the passions, I cry out, ‘All-powerful Christ, bring me up with your mighty hand, and save me.’ ****

Of the Martyrs

A myriad multitude of holy Athletes trampled underfoot myriads of spiritual foes and were united with the myriads of heavenly Minds. ****

Having dried up the deep of godlessness, O Athletes, you were filled with the torrent of delight, and so dry up the out-pourings of my sins. ****

Revealed as a tabernacle of sanctification, Mary, sanctify my wretched soul, befouled by pleasures, and make a partaker in divine glory.

Baptist, who on earth proclaimed repentance, show me ways of repentance that guide me to the light, and deliver me from the chasms of error. ****

As you plunged the abyss in the river’s streams, dry up the abysses of my passions by granting me showers of tears, Forerunner, herald of Christ. ****

Forerunner of the Lord, save me from diseases of the soul, passions of the flesh, the difficulties of life, and trials and afflictions of every kind. ****

I earnestly entreat you, the Mother of God and fair among women, do not despise me, Pure Lady, but take pity and keep me safe from every harm. ****