Ode IX

Exapostilarion: Spec. Mel.: “Hearken, ye women…”—

Irmos: Every ear trembleth to hear of the ineffable condescension of God, for the Most High willingly came down even to the flesh, becoming man through the Virgin’s womb. Wherefore we, the faithful, magnify the all-pure Theotokos.

Theotokion: With gladsome mind we cry out to thee with the voice of Gabriel: Rejoice, O joy of the faithful! Rejoice, O golden lampstand, table, mountain and noetic gate! Rejoice, O divine chariot of Christ the King! Rejoice, O most blessed one, thou loosing of the curse!

The shrine of thy relics poureth forth healing upon all in need, O martyr Callistratus: it truly halteth illnesses difficult to cure, and dispelleth the darkness of evil spirits through the activity, power and grace of the Spirit.

Bound one to another by grace, O martyrs of Christ, ye were shown to be like a divinely fashioned chain leading up on high and sanctifying the earth with the shedding of your blood. Wherefore, we faithfully celebrate your memory in gladness.

With those who suffered with thee thou hast manifestly received an imperishable crown, everlasting glory and gladness, never-ending joy and the heavenly kingdom, O divinely wise Callistratus. With them remember us to the Lord.

Shining forth today more brightly than the sun, the divine memory of the wise Callistratus, Gymnasius and those who suffered with them illumineth the ends of the earth with radiant brilliance. Through their supplications, O Christ, free us from condemnation.

O the wonder! How have those who are clay by nature been shown to be golden? For neither fire, nor the sword, nor the teeth of wild beasts, nor tortures, nor wounds destroyed them; and, having cast down the incorporeal one with their flesh, they pray for us to the Lord.

Rejoice, O palace of God! Rejoice, O mountain densely wooded! Rejoice, O divine table! Rejoice, bush unburnt! Rejoice, throne of glory! Rejoice, golden jar! Rejoice, most radiant lamp! Rejoice, O Mary, Virgin Mother, thou light cloud!