Ode 7. The Irmos.

Of the Forerunner. Another Irmos.

The Children of Abraham who did not worship the golden image were tried as gold in a smelting-furnace; for in the furnace of fire as in a bridal chamber filled with light they danced and cried: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

In your compassion, O Christ, you appeared as a new-born infant to redeem the world from the ancient condemnation; and so I cry; I have become old through many sins, make me new, O Saviour, and save me as I cry: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

You once saved Manasses when he repented, took pity on the Harlot as she wept, justified the Thief with a word; accept me too who have committed many grievous sins, O Saviour, and save me as I cry: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

Of the Martyrs.

When the world was gripped by the shipwreck of polytheism, the Champions, embarked on the ship of true religion, with Christ as helmsman, set sail for the harbour of life as they cried: Blessed is the God of our fathers!

Shining clearly like gold in a furnace the Athletes were tested by many tortures and displaying honoured imprints of the sufferings of Christ they have now been laid up as treasures in the storehouses of heaven in complete incorruption.

All-pure and immaculate Lady, beseech the Saviour, God, Redeemer and Master whom you bore, that we, having received release from dangers and forgiveness of many sins may hymn his pities beyond understanding.

You were revealed as greater than all born of woman, Prophet of God; at your great intercession deliver me who have greatly sinned from the great flame that I may call you blessed.

I have appeared as a fruitless fig tree and I quail before the axe; better me by your mediation and make me fruitful, that I may call you blessed, O Forerunner of the Saviour.

Put to sleep every harm of the foe, which is roused against those who have recourse to you in faith, by your unsleeping intercessions, O John, Forerunner of the Redeemer of all.

Guard from evil seizure, foraging and slavery of the boaster, O Virgin, your servants who with soul and tongue ever glorify you.