DECEMBER
1 DECEMBER
+ Holy Prophet Nahum
Troparion, Tone 3.
O Prophet Nahum, thou didst shine forth in the Law and proclaim the consolation of grace from of old in the Spirit. Even so, by appearing unto men, God the Word gladdened mortal nature. Intercede with the compassionate Trinity to grant us His great mercy.
Kontakion, Tone 4.
Illumined by the Spirit, thy pure heart was a vessel of illustrious prophecy. For thou seest the far-off things as though they were present, O Prophet Nahum. Wherefore we venerate thee.
2 DECEMBER
+ Holy Prophet Habakkuk
Troparion, Tone 4.
Of old thou didst describe the Virgin Mother of God as a mountain from which the God of all would shine forth in the flesh for our sake. Hence we honour thee as a God-proclaiming prophet and beseech thee to make us partakers of grace by thy intercessions, O glorious Habakkuk.
Kontakion, Tone 8.
To the melody of: To thee, our mighty leader in battle.
O thou who didst announce to the inhabited earth that God would come from the south, that is, from the Virgin, O Habakkuk, thou voice of God, thou didst also herald Christ’s Resurrection to the world, keeping the divine watch to hear the tidings of the radiant angel; therefore, we call to thee joyously: Rejoice, thou luminous beauty of the Prophets.
3 DECEMBER
+ Holy Prophet Sophonias
Troparion, Tone 1.
Thou didst comprehend from of old the things that would come to pass, thou didst clearly foretell our eternal redemption and proclaim Christ as the King of Sion. O Prophet Sophonias, having been delivered from the curse by Him we cry out to thee: Glory to Him Who has glorified thee; glory to Him Who has crowned thee; glory to Him Who through thee grants forgiveness to all.
Kontakion, Tone 4.
To the melody of: Thou didst seek the heights.
Thou wast shown to be illumined by the Divine Spirit, O Prophet Sophonias; for thou didst announce the manifestation of God, saying: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; cry aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem; behold, thy King cometh, bringing salvation.
4 DECEMBER
+ Great Martyr Barbara
+ Saint John of Damascus
Troparion to Great Martyr Barbara, Tone 4.
O all-blessed lamb, divinely illumined by the light of the Holy Trinity, thou didst profess the Trisolar Light at the baptismal font, overcoming the error of thy father and confessing the faith of Christ; therefore, O venerable Barbara, grace was given thee from on high to heal all illnesses and infirmities. By her prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.
Troparion to Saint John of Damascus, Tone 8.
Instructor in Orthodoxy, teacher of piety and purity, luminary for the world, divinely-inspired adornment of hierarchs, O John most wise, by thy teachings thou hast enlightened all, O harp of the Spirit. Entreat Christ our God that our souls be saved.
Kontakion to Saint John of Damascus, Tone 8.
To the melody of: O Thou Who wast raised up.
Let us sing the praises of John, the hymnographer and honourable preacher of the Gospel, the divinely-inspired teacher and instructor of the Church who fought and overcame her enemies; for, taking the Cross of the Lord as his weapon, he repelled all the errors of heresy, and as an ardent advocate before God, he giveth to all the forgiveness of their sins.
Kontakion to Great Martyr Barbara, Tone 4.
To the melody of: O Thou Who wast raised up.
O Passion-bearer who didst follow God Who is piously hymned in Trinity, thou didst extinguish the fires of idolatry. As thou didst suffer in the place of judgment, thou was not frightened by the threats of the tyrants, O Barbara of manly mind, but thou didst testify in a loud voice and constantly sing: I worship the Trinity, and the sole Deity.
5 DECEMBER
+ Saint Sabbas the Sanctified
Troparion, Tone 8.
With the streams of thy tears thou didst water the barren desert, and with sighs from the depths of thy soul thou didst render thy labours fruitful a hundredfold; and thou didst become a light for the inhabited earth, radiant with miracles. O our Father Sabbas, entreat Christ our God that our souls be saved.
Kontakion, Tone 8.
To the melody of: To thee, our mighty leader in battle.
Since thou wast brought to God in infancy as a spotless offering, by virtue thou didst become a planter of piety, O blessed Sabbas; thus, thou wast made an adornment of godly monks and a praiseworthy citizen of the desert; therefore, we cry to thee: Rejoice, O Sabbas most favoured.
6 DECEMBER
+ Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker
Troparion, Tone 4.
As a rule of faith, an image of meekness and a teacher of temperance the Lord revealed thee to thy flock, in the truth of things; therefore, thou didst attain the heights by humility and riches by poverty. O our father and hierarch Nicholas, entreat Christ our God that our souls be saved.
Kontakion, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
In Myra thou wast shown to be a hierarch, O Saint Nicholas; for in the fulfillment of Christ’s Gospel thou didst today offer up thy life for thy people, and didst save the innocent from death; therefore, thou wast sanctified and wast revealed to be a great initiate of the grace of God.
7 DECEMBER
+ Saint Ambrose of Milan
Troparion, Tone 1.
O Ambrose, wonderworker and champion of the Church, Godbearing Hierarch: thou didst work miracles by thy faith and love for God; therefore we the earthborn glorify thee and cry out: Glory to Him Who has glorified thee; glory to Him Who has crowned thee; glory to Him Who through thee works healings for all.
Kontakion, Tone 8.
To the melody of: To thee, our mighty leader in battle.
Since thou didst possess the word of life in all its fullness, thou didst not flinch before the imperial majesty; with words of divine instruction thou didst rebuke the emperor and bring him wisdom; hence, thou wast held in even greater honour, and didst guide the people of thy flock toward God; therefore, we cry to thee: Rejoice, O Ambrose most marvellous.
8 DECEMBER
+ Saint Potapius the Righteous
Troparion, Tone 8.
In thee, O Father Potapius, the image of salvation was made manifest; for thou didst take up the cross and follow Christ, by thy deeds teaching us to disregard the flesh, because it passeth away, and to take care of the soul, which is immortal; therefore, O Saint, thy spirit doth also rejoice with the angels.
Kontakion, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
Having found thy church to be a place of spiritual healing, O Saint, people eagerly hasten to it to ask that they may receive the healing of their infirmities and the forgiveness of sins in their lives; for thou art revealed as a defender of all who are in need, O venerable Potapius.
9 DECEMBER
+ The Conception of the Mother of God by Saint Anna
Troparion, Tone 4.
Today the bonds of barrenness are loosed; for Joachim and Anna have been heard by God. Beyond all expectation they will indeed bring into the world the Maiden of God, from whom the Infinite Himself is pleased to be born as an earthly man; and He commanded the angels to cry out to her: Rejoice, thou that art full of grace; the Lord is with thee.
Kontakion, Tone 4.
To the melody of: Thou hast appeared.
Today the Church doth celebrate Anna’s conception, which was brought to pass by God; for she gave birth to her who beyond words bare the Word.
10 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Martyrs Menas, Hermogenes, and Eugraphus
Troparion, Tone 8.
Since the Martyrs of Christ had by abstinence slain the fiery urges and motions of passion, they also received grace while yet alive to drive away the illnesses of the sick and after death to work miracles. Truly this is a wonder most glorious, that their bare bones pour forth healing. Glory to God alone, the Creator most wise.
Kontakion, Tone 4.
To the melody of: O Thou Who wast raised up.
The melodious sound of thy words, O Menas, lifted Hermogenes up from the pit of perdition and placed him upon the rock of life. On account of them Eugraphus also rebuked the king and rejoiced while he had his honourable head cut off. Pray diligently for the salvation of all who hymn you with love.
SUNDAY BETWEEN 11-17 DECEMBER
+ The Sunday of the Holy Forefathers
Resurrectional Troparion of the Tone.
Troparion, Tone 2.
Thou didst justify the Forefathers by faith, when of old through them Thou didst betroth Thyself to the Church of the nations. The Saints rejoice in the glorious fruit of their seed, even in her who bore Thee seedlessly. By their prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.
Kontakion, Tone 6.
A hand-wrought image ye would not worship, O thrice-blessed ones; but, armed by the undepictable Essence, ye were glorified in your fiery ordeal. Standing in the midst of the unbearable flames, ye called upon God: Make haste, O Compassionate One, and, as Thou art merciful, hurry to help us; for what Thou willest, Thou canst do.
11 DECEMBER
+ Our Venerable Father Daniel the Stylite
Troparion, Tone 1.
Thou didst become a pillar of patience and didst emulate the forefathers, O venerable one: Job in his sufferings, Joseph in temptations, and the life of the bodiless while in the body. O Daniel our father, entreat Christ our God that our souls be saved.
Kontakion, Tone 8.
To the melody of: As first-fruits of our nature.
When thou didst ascend thy pillar, O blessed father, like a star most bright thou didst illuminate the world with thy godly deeds and didst dispel the darkness of deception; therefore, we now beseech thee: Shine the unwaning light of knowledge into the hearts of thy servants.
12 DECEMBER
+ Our Venerable Father Spyridon the Wonderworker, Bishop of Trimythus
Troparion, Tone 4.
As a rule of faith, an image of meekness, and a teacher of temperance the Lord revealed thee to thy flock, in the truth of things; therefore, thou didst attain the heights by humility and riches by poverty. O our father and hierarch Spyridon, entreat Christ our God that our souls be saved.
Kontakion, Tone 2.
To the melody of: Thou didst seek the heights.
Wounded by love for Christ, O most sacred Father Spyridon, and directing thy mind upward by the light of the Spirit, thou didst find the active vision of God through thine activity and didst become a divinely-inspired altar. We beseech thee, O Saint: Ask for a divine illumination for all the faithful.
13 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Great Martyrs Eustratius, Auxentius, Eugene, Mardarius, and Orestes.
Troparion, Tone 4.
Thy martyrs, O Lord, in their sufferings received imperishable crowns from Thee, O our God; for since they possessed Thine invincible strength, they set their tormentors at nought and crushed the powerless presumption of the demons. Through their prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.
Another Troparion, Tone 4.
Let us hymn the splendour of the all-honourable Martyrs, the Passion-bearers five in number who spurned the glory of earthly things. Let us praise Eustratius, the brilliant sun and most wise rhetor, together with his fellow sufferers, who braved fire and torture for Christ, the King of all, and were rewarded with honours and crown from His throne of glory. By their prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.
Kontakion, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
When thou didst eloquently proclaim the things of God before men of iniquity, thou didst endure beatings with a manful heart. Thou didst shine with divine signs, O most wondrous one, and didst extinguish the fire of audacious deception; therefore, we honour thee, O most blessed Martyr of Christ, Eustratius.
14 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Martyrs Thyrsus, Leucius, Philemon, Apollonius, Arianus, and Callinicus.
Troparion, Tone 3.
With garlands and chants let us adorn the six Martyrs, Thyrsus, Philemon, steadfast Apollonius, Arianus, Callinicus and glorious Leucius; for they destroyed the enemy and are pillars of godliness. And they shine on all the world with rays of heavenly grace.
Kontakion, Tone 2.
O champions of faith and piety, ye spat at the impious tyrant and denounced his bestial bloodshed. Strengthened by help from Christ, ye triumphed over his furious opposition. O Thyrsus and Leucius, together with your fellow sufferers, pray for us.
15 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Hieromartyr Eleutherius
+ Our Venerable Father Paul of Latros
Troparion to Saint Eleutherius, Tone 4.
As thou didst share the ways of the Apostles and didst inherit their throne, O divinely-inspired Saint, through action thou didst find the way of ascent to divine contemplation; therefore, having rightly divided the word of truth, thou didst also suffer for the faith even unto blood. O Hieromartyr Eleutherius, entreat Christ our God that our souls be saved.
Troparion to Saint Paul, Tone 4.
As a fellow-dweller with the angels and a colleague of all the saintly monks, O Paul most glorious, we hymn thee and we beseech thee: Pray for us at all times, that we may obtain mercy from God.
Kontakion to Saint Eleutherius, Tone 2.
To the melody of: Into the enjoyment of repose.
We all extol thee as an adornment of priests and an exemplar for passion-bearers, and we pray to thee, O Hieromartyr Eleutherius: Liberate from multifarious adversities those who celebrate thy commemoration with love, and pray to Christ our God unceasingly for all of us.
Kontakion to Saint Paul, Tone 8.
To the melody of: To thee, our mighty leader in battle.
From thy youth thou manfully didst desire that which is beyond the human mind, O most wise one. Thou didst forsake the tumult of the world and didst become a dwelling place of the Trinity because of thy godly way of life, and thou didst enlighten those who came to thee with faith; therefore, we all cry out to thee: Rejoice, O Father Paul all-honourable.
16 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Prophet Aggeus
Troparion, Tone 4.
Being pure in heart, O prophet Aggeus, thou wast an inspired Prophet and servant of God. Therefore, as one that keepeth festival, thou wast taken up to those who keep festival in God. Intercede with Him, O herald of God, that we may all be saved.
Kontakion, Tone 2.
Thou didst shine forth to the ends of the world, illumined by the light of the Spirit. Thou didst foretell in figures the things that were to come; and wast illustrious in thy life, O wise Prophet Aggeus.
17 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Prophet Daniel and the Three Holy Youths: Ananias, Azarias, and Misael.
Troparion, Tone 2.
Great are the achievements of faith! The three holy youths rejoiced in the source of flames as if on restful waters; and the Prophet Daniel proved to be a shepherd of lions, as of sheep. By their prayers, O Christ our God, have mercy on us.
Kontakion to the Prophet Daniel, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
Since thy shining heart was cleansed by the Spirit, it became a luminous vessel of prophecy; for thou dost speak of distant things as if they are present. Thou didst tame the lions when thou wast cast into their den; therefore, we honour thee, O Prophet of God, glorious Daniel.
Kontakion to the Three Holy Youths, Tone 6.
A hand-wrought image ye would not worship, O thrice-blessed ones; but, armed by the undepictable Essence, ye were glorified in your fiery ordeal. Standing in the midst of the unbearable flames, ye called upon God: Make haste, O Compassionate One, and, as Thou art merciful, hurry to help us; for what Thou willest, Thou canst do.
SUNDAY BETWEEN 18-24 DECEMBER
+ The Sunday of the Holy Fathers
Resurrectional Troparion of the Tone.
Troparion, Tone 2.
Great are the achievements of faith! The three holy youths rejoiced in the source of flames as if on restful waters; and the Prophet Daniel proved to be a shepherd of lions, as of sheep. By their prayers, O Christ our God, have mercy on us.
December 20-23:
Troparion of the Forefeast, Tone 4.
Make ready, O Bethlehem; open thyself to all, O Eden; adorn thyself, O Ephratha; for the Tree of Life hath blossomed from the Virgin in the cave. Her womb hath proved to be a noetic paradise, having within it the divine Plant. By eating of it we shall live, and not die like Adam. Christ is born, wishing to raise up the image that before was fallen.
December 24:
Troparion of the Vigil, Tone 4.
Of old Mary, together with the aged Joseph, was registered in Bethlehem, as being of the seed of David; and she bare in her womb the fruit of a conception without seed. The time came for her to give birth, and there was no place for her to stay, but a cave proved to be a fair palace for the Queen. Christ is born, wishing to raise up the image that before was fallen.
December 18-19:
Kontakion to the Three Holy Youths, Tone 6.
A hand-wrought image ye would not worship, O thrice-blessed ones; but, armed by the undepictable Essence, ye were glorified in your fiery ordeal. Standing in the midst of the unbearable flames, ye called upon God: Make haste, O Compassionate One, and, as Thou art merciful, hurry to help us; for what Thou willest, Thou canst do.
December 20 & 24:
Kontakion of the Forefeast, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
Today the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth to the pre-eternal Word ineffably. Exult, O earth, on hearing these tidings, and together with the angels and the shepherds give glory to Him Who willeth to appear as a young Child, God before all ages.
December 21-23:
Kontakion of the Forefeast, Tone 2.
As we see the One Who holdeth the world in His hands now wrapped in swaddling clothes in Bethlehem, let us offer our hymns in anticipation to the one who gave Him birth; for with a mother’s joy doth she cradle the Son of God.
18 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Great Martyr Sebastian and His Companions
Troparion, Tone 1.
O Sebastian, thou didst spurn the gatherings of the wicked and bring together the illustrious martyrs who with thee cast down the enemy. Deemed worthy of the Divine Presence, thou dost gladden those who cry to thee: Glory to Him Who hath strengthened thee; glory to Him Who hath crowned thee; glory to Him Who through thee worketh healings for all.
Kontakion, Tone 4.
Thou didst excel in godly zeal and gather a band of martyrs from which thou didst shine as a star. The arrows that wounded thy body, O Sebastian, pierced the hearts of the enemy. Hence Christ hath glorified thee.
19 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Martyr Boniface
Troparion, Tone 4.
Thou didst fervently follow after the Martyrs and confess Christ before unbelievers, O Boniface. Thou didst give thy body to modest Aglais as imperishable treasure: healings and mercy flow from it for the world.
Kontakion, Tone 4.
To the melody of: O Thou Who wast raised up.
Thou didst go forth to obtain the relics of the martyrs, and, on seeing those who suffered for the faith and the law of God, thou didst courageously display thy strength by rushing to suffer for confessing Christ. And now that thou hast received the honours of victory through thy passion, O Boniface, ever pray for us.
20 DECEMBER
+ The Forefeast of the Nativity of Our Lord
+ The Holy Hieromartyr Ignatius the Godbearer, Archbishop of Antioch
Troparion of the Forefeast, Tone 4.
Make ready, O Bethlehem; open thyself to all, O Eden; adorn thyself, O Ephratha; for the Tree of Life hath blossomed from the Virgin in the cave. Her womb hath proved to be a noetic paradise, having within it the divine Plant. By eating of it we shall live, and not die like Adam. Christ is born, wishing to raise up the image that before was fallen.
Troparion to Saint Ignatius, Tone 4.
As thou didst share the ways of the Apostles and didst inherit their throne, O divinely-inspired Saint, through action thou didst find the way of ascent to divine contemplation; therefore, having rightly divided the word of truth, thou didst also suffer for the faith even unto blood. O Hieromartyr Ignatius, entreat Christ our God that our souls be saved.
Kontakion of the Forefeast, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
Today the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth to the pre-eternal Word ineffably. Exult, O earth, on hearing these tidings, and together with the angels and the shepherds give glory to Him Who willeth to appear as a young Child, God before all ages.
Kontakion to Saint Ignatius, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
The luminous day of thine illustrious struggles proclaimeth to all Him Who was born of the Virgin in a cave. Out of love thou didst thirst to take delight in Him and didst make haste to be devoured by beasts; therefore, thou art also called the God-bearer, O glorious Ignatius.
21 DECEMBER
+ The Forefeast of the Nativity of Our Lord
+ The Holy Martyr Juliana of Nicomedia
Troparion of the Forefeast, Tone 4.
Make ready, O Bethlehem; open thyself to all, O Eden; adorn thyself, O Ephratha; for the Tree of Life hath blossomed from the Virgin in the cave. Her womb hath proved to be a noetic paradise, having within it the divine Plant. By eating of it we shall live, and not die like Adam. Christ is born, wishing to raise up the image that before was fallen.
Troparion to Saint Juliana, Tone 4.
All-blameless bride and venerable trophy-bearer, thou art wedded to the Word of the Immortal Father, O glorious Juliana; for having wisely disdained thy mortal bridegroom thou didst strive beyond nature to destroy the serpent. And now thou dost delight in the joys of thy Bridegroom.
Kontakion of the Forefeast, Tone 2.
As we see the One Who holdeth the world in His hands now wrapped in swaddling clothes in Bethlehem, let us offer our hymns in anticipation to the one who gave Him birth; for with a mother’s joy doth she cradle the Son of God.
Kontakion to Saint Juliana, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
First thou wast made pure by the virtues of virginity, and now thou art crowned with the crown of martyrdom, O Juliana. Bestow healing and salvation upon those who are in need and illness, as they approach thy shrine; and pray to Christ, that we may be happily favoured to obtain from Him mercy and life everlasting.
22 DECEMBER
+ The Forefeast of the Nativity of Our Lord
+ The Holy Great Martyr Anastasia
Troparion of the Forefeast, Tone 4.
Make ready, O Bethlehem; open thyself to all, O Eden; adorn thyself, O Ephratha; for the Tree of Life hath blossomed from the Virgin in the cave. Her womb hath proved to be a noetic paradise, having within it the divine Plant. By eating of it we shall live, and not die like Adam. Christ is born, wishing to raise up the image that before was fallen.
Troparion to Saint Anastasia, Tone 4.
Thy lamb Anastasia doth cry out with a great voice, O Jesus: Since I love Thee and seek Thee, O my Bridegroom, I endure suffering; in Thy baptism I am crucified and buried with Thee. I am tortured for Thy sake that I may reign with Thee; I die having hope in Thee that I may live with Thee. Accept me, then, as a spotless sacrifice which is offered to Thee with love. Through her prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.
Kontakion of the Forefeast, Tone 2.
As we see the One Who holdeth the world in His hands now wrapped in swaddling clothes in Bethlehem, let us offer our hymns in anticipation to the one who gave Him birth; for with a mother’s joy doth she cradle the Son of God.
Kontakion to Saint Anastasia, Tone 2.
To the melody of: Thou didst seek the heights.
When they that are in temptations and afflictions have recourse to thy church, they receive precious healing from the divine grace which dwelleth in thee, O Anastasia; for thou dost ever pour forth healings upon the world.
23 DECEMBER
+ The Forefeast of the Nativity of Our Lord
+ The Ten Holy Martyrs of Crete
Troparion of the Forefeast, Tone 4.
Make ready, O Bethlehem; open thyself to all, O Eden; adorn thyself, O Ephratha; for the Tree of Life hath blossomed from the Virgin in the cave. Her womb hath proved to be a noetic paradise, having within it the divine Plant. By eating of it we shall live, and not die like Adam. Christ is born, wishing to raise up the image that before was fallen.
Troparion to the Ten Holy Martyrs, Tone 4.
Thy martyrs, O Lord, in their sufferings received imperishable crowns from Thee, O our God; for since they possessed Thine invincible strength, they set the tormentors at nought and crushed the powerless presumption of the demons. Through their prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.
Kontakion of the Forefeast, Tone 2.
As we see the One Who holdeth the world in His hands now wrapped in swaddling clothes in Bethlehem, let us offer our hymns in anticipation to the one who gave Him birth; for with a mother’s joy doth she cradle the Son of God.
Kontakion to the Ten Holy Martyrs, Tone 4.
To the melody of: Thou hast appeared.
Shining forth like a star, the venerable suffering of the Ten Martyrs showeth us signs of the dawn of Him Who is hidden in a cave, Whom the Virgin brought forth without seed.
24 DECEMBER
+ The Vigil of the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord
+ The Holy Great Martyr Eugenia
Troparion of the Vigil, Tone 4.
Of old Mary, together with the aged Joseph, was registered in Bethlehem, as being of the seed of David; and she bare in her womb the fruit of a conception without seed. The time came for her to give birth, and there was no place for her to stay, but a cave proved to be a fair palace for the Queen. Christ is born, wishing to raise up the image that before was fallen.
Troparion to Saint Eugenia, Tone 8.
In thee, O Mother Eugenia, the image of salvation was made manifest; for thou didst take up the cross and follow Christ, by thy deeds teaching us to disregard the flesh, because it passeth away, and to take care of the soul, which is immortal; therefore, O Saint, thy spirit doth also rejoice with the angels.
Kontakion of the Vigil, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
Today the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth to the pre-eternal Word ineffably. Exult, O earth, on hearing these tidings, and together with the angels and the shepherds give glory to Him Who willeth to appear as a young Child, God before all ages.
Kontakion to Saint Eugenia, Tone 2.
To the melody of: Into the enjoyment of repose.
Thou wast worthily adorned with noble virtues by the Lord Who became poor in the form of a servant and united Himself to us through the Virgin. He placed thee in the choir of candle-bearing virgins and numbered thee among the martyrs, O Eugenia, and thou hast received a crown of true nobility, a crown of divine glory.
25 DECEMBER
+ THE NATIVITY OF OUR LORD AND GOD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST
Troparion, Tone 4.
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shone upon the world with the light of knowledge; for thereby they who served the stars, through a star were taught to worship Thee, the Sun of righteousness, and to know Thee the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Kontakion, Tone 3.
To its proper tone.
Today the Virgin giveth birth to Him Who is above all being, and the earth offereth a cave to Him Whom no man can approach. Angels with shepherds give glory, and Magi journey with a star. For our sake is born a young Child, the pre-eternal God.
SUNDAY AFTER THE FEAST OF THE NATIVITY
26-31 DECEMBER
+ The Sunday after the Nativity of our Lord
+ The Holy and Righteous Joseph the Betrothed, David the King, and James the Brother of the Lord
Resurrectional Troparion of the Tone
Troparion of the Nativity, Tone 4.
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shone upon the world with the light of knowledge; for thereby they who served the stars, through a star were taught to worship Thee, the Sun of righteousness, and to know Thee the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Troparion, Tone 2.
O Joseph, tell the good tidings of these wonders to David, the divine ancestor: Thou hast seen a Virgin who gave birth; thou hast given glory with the shepherds; thou hast worshipped with the Magi; thou hast received messages from the angels. Entreat Christ our God to save our souls.
Kontakion, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
Today the divine David is filled with joy, and Joseph and James together offer praise; for they rejoice at receiving crowns through their kinship with Christ, and they praise and extol Him Who is ineffably born on earth. O Compassionate One, save them that honour Thee.
Kontakion, Tone 3.
To its proper tone.
Today the Virgin giveth birth to Him Who is above all being, and the earth offereth a cave to Him Whom no man can approach. Angels with shepherds give glory, and Magi journey with a star. For our sake is born a young Child, the pre-eternal God.
26 DECEMBER
+ The Synaxis of the Most Holy Mother of God
Troparion of the Nativity, Tone 4.
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shone upon the world with the light of knowledge; for thereby they who served the stars, through a star were taught to worship Thee, the Sun of righteousness, and to know Thee the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Kontakion of the Synaxis of the Mother of God, Tone 6.
He Who was begotten of the Father before the morning star without a mother, is today upon earth make flesh without a father of thee, O Virgin; therefore, a star announceth the good tidings of the Magi, while angels with shepherd hymn thine ineffable childbirth, O thou that art full of grace.
Kontakion of the Nativity, Tone 3.
To its proper tone.
Today the Virgin giveth birth to Him Who is above all being, and the earth offereth a cave to Him Whom no man can approach. Angels with shepherds give glory, and Magi journey with a star. For our sake is born a young Child, the pre-eternal God.
27 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Protomartyr and Archdeacon Stephen
+ Saint Theodore Graptus, Confessor
Troparion of the Nativity, Tone 4.
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shone upon the world with the light of knowledge; for thereby they who served the stars, through a star were taught to worship Thee, the Sun of righteousness, and to know Thee the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Troparion to Saint Stephen, Tone 3.
O holy Apostle Stephen, entreat the merciful God that He grant our souls the forgiveness of sins.
Another Troparion to Saint Stephen, Tone 3.
Thou companion of the Apostles and first to suffer among passion-bearers, O Stephen most praiseworthy, servant of Christ: First wast thou to run the course of martyrdom, and thou hast likewise brought countless generations of men to Christ, the Judge of our acts; therefore, we venerate thee as an apostle and supreme sufferer, and we beseech thee: Entreat Christ our God to grant us great mercy.
Troparion to Saint Theodore, Tone 8.
Instructor in Orthodoxy, teacher of piety and purity, luminary for the world, divinely-inspired adornment of hierarchs, O Theodore most wise, by thy teachings thou hast enlightened all. O harp of the Spirit, entreat Christ our God that our souls be saved.
Kontakion to Saint Stephen, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
Yesterday the Master appeared to us in the flesh, and today His servant doth depart from the flesh. Yesterday He Who reigneth was born in the flesh, and today His slave is stoned, and for His sake the divine Protomartyr Stephen doth die.
Kontakion of the Nativity, Tone 3.
To its proper tone.
Today the Virgin giveth birth to Him Who is above all being, and the earth offereth a cave to Him Whom no man can approach. Angels with shepherds give glory, and Magi journey with a star. For our sake is born a young Child, the pre-eternal God.
28 DECEMBER
+ The Twenty-thousand Martyrs of Nicomedia
Troparion of the Nativity, Tone 4.
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shone upon the world with the light of knowledge; for thereby they who served the stars, through a star were taught to worship Thee, the Sun of righteousness, and to know Thee the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Troparion to the Martyrs, Tone 2.
O passion-bearers of the Lord, blessed is the earth which hath absorbed your blood, and holy are the temples which have received your bodies; for by your struggles ye censured the enemy at the judgment seat and proclaimed Christ with boldness. Since He is good, entreat Him, we beseech you, to save our souls.
Kontakion to the Martyrs, Tone 2
To the melody of: Into the enjoyment of repose.
Spiritually firm in faith, two myriads of sufferers endured martyrdom by fire, as they cried out to Him Who was born of the Virgin: Accept us as offerings which are burnt for Thee, even as Thou didst accept the gifts of the Persian kings: gold, frankincense, and myrrh, O pre-eternal God.
Kontakion of the Nativity, Tone 3.
To its proper tone.
Today the Virgin giveth birth to Him Who is above all being, and the earth offereth a cave to Him Whom no man can approach. Angels with shepherds give glory, and Magi journey with a star. For our sake is born a young Child, the pre-eternal God.
29 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Innocents Slain for Christ’s Sake by King Herod in Bethlehem
+ Our Venerable Father Marcellus, Abbot
Troparion of the Nativity, Tone 4.
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shone upon the world with the light of knowledge; for thereby they who served the stars, through a star were taught to worship Thee, the Sun of righteousness, and to know Thee the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Troparion to the Holy Innocents, Tone 1.
By the sufferings of the saints, which they endured for Thy sake, be Thou entreated, O Lord; and do Thou heal all our sufferings and pains, we beseech Thee, O Thou Who lovest mankind.
Troparion to Saint Marcellus, Tone 8.
In thee, O Father Marcellus, the image of salvation was made manifest; for thou didst take up the cross and follow Christ, by thy deeds teaching us to disregard the flesh, because it passeth away, and to take care of the soul, which is immortal; therefore, O Saint, thy spirit doth also rejoice with the angels.
Kontakion of the Holy Innocents, Tone 6.
To the melody of: When Thou hadst fulfilled Thy dispensation for our sakes.
When the King was born in Bethlehem, the Magi arrived from Persia with gifts, guided by a star on high, but Herod was troubles and mowed down the children like wheat, as he lamented that his power would soon be destroyed.
Kontakion to Saint Marcellus, Tone 8.
To the melody of: To thee, our mighty leader in battle.
Like a star shining splendidly hast thou accessibly shone upon us from Ephesus, O all-blessed one. Thou hast thundered with virtues and become the instructor of many monks, O Saint, and thus thou hast illumined the Imperial City; therefore, we cry out to thee: Rejoice, O all-blessed Father Marcellus.
Kontakion of the Nativity, Tone 3.
To its proper tone.
Today the Virgin giveth birth to Him Who is above all being, and the earth offereth a cave to Him Whom no man can approach. Angels with shepherds give glory, and Magi journey with a star. For our sake is born a young Child, the pre-eternal God.
30 DECEMBER
+ The Holy Martyr Anysia
+ Our Venerable Father Zoticus
+ Saint Melanie of Rome (transferred from 31 December)
Troparion of the Nativity, Tone 4.
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shone upon the world with the light of knowledge; for thereby they who served the stars, through a star were taught to worship Thee, the Sun of righteousness, and to know Thee the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Troparion to Saint Anysia, Tone 4.
Thy lamb Anysia doth cry out with a great voice, O Jesus: Since I love Thee and seek Thee, O my Bridegroom, I endure suffering; in Thy baptism I am crucified and buried with Thee. I am tortured for Thy sake that I may reign with Thee; I die having hope in Thee that I may live with Thee. Accept me, then, as a spotless sacrifice which is offered to Thee with love. Through her prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.
Kontakion to Saint Zoticus, Tone 2.
To the melody of: Into the enjoyment of repose.
For the love of Christ thou didst love the poor and didst supply their needs, O Saint: and now thou hast received all the riches of heaven, O Zoticus, truly rich; therefore, we all honour thee as we observe thy commemoration.
Kontakion to Saint Anysia, Tone 4.
The luminous day of thine amazing labours hath come, O most glorious passion-bearer. Today the honourable Church of God doth celebrate and gather us together to cry to thee: Rejoice, O Virgin Martyr Anysia all-blessed.
Kontakion to Saint Melanie, Tone 3.
To the melody of: Today the Virgin.
When thou wast filled with love for the purity of virginity and hadst convinced thy spouse to turn to deeds of virtue, thou didst spend thine immense wealth to build dwellings for monks and nuns to found monasteries; therefore, thou wast taken to dwell in the mansions of heaven. Remember us, O Melanie all-venerable.
Kontakion of the Nativity, Tone 3.
To its proper tone.
Today the Virgin giveth birth to Him Who is above all being, and the earth offereth a cave to Him Whom no man can approach. Angels with shepherds give glory, and Magi journey with a star. For our sake is born a young Child, the pre-eternal God.
31 DECEMBER
+ Leave-taking of the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord
As on the Feast:
Troparion of the Nativity, Tone 4.
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shone upon the world with the light of knowledge; for thereby they who served the stars, through a star were taught to worship Thee, the Sun of righteousness, and to know Thee the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Kontakion of the Nativity, Tone 3.
To its proper tone.
Today the Virgin giveth birth to Him Who is above all being, and the earth offereth a cave to Him Whom no man can approach. Angels with shepherds give glory, and Magi journey with a star. For our sake is born a young Child, the pre-eternal God.
Last updated: 18 October 2019
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