Ode 6. The Irmos.

Of the Forerunner. Another Irmos.

On the sea of life I have descended to the deep by my actions; but like Jonas from the whale so I cry out to you: Lead me up I beg from the deep of evils, O Son and Word of God.

Wretch that I am I have weighed down my soul with the slumber of indifference, and have been borne down by the sleep of sin; rouse me towards the light of repentance, Lord, and in your compassion save me.

How have I trembled, wretch that I am? How have I been estranged from the good God? How do I not bear in mind that dread assize, at which I am to be judged? My Maker, take pity on me!

Of the Martyrs.

Truly you appeared like a lyre, ever singing a song of salvation, and delighting the hearts of the faithful, and you completely dispel the drunkenness of error, glorious Athletes.

Surpassing the limits of the human, Christ’s Martyrs, with their divine urge towards the Creator, endured rejoicing the trials of tortures as though in bodies not their own.

All-holy Virgin, protection of all the faithful, be present to deliver me from threat and darkness of the dread assize at the hour of judgement, that with faith I may ever hymn you.

You stood baptising in the streams of Jordan the Master who takes away the sins of all mankind; do not cease to beseech him, O Forerunner, to take pity on our souls.

You were revealed as herald of repentance, O Forerunner. In that repentance keep my soul, ruined by harmful sins and unable to arise.

In untrodden deserts you made the coming approach of the Word resound for souls, blessed Prophet; therefore with never-silent voices the whole Church calls you blessed.

The images of the Law made clear your dread child-bearing, Bride of God; as we now contemplate their fulfilment, Sovereign Lady, we fittingly glorify you.