How to read akathists by day. What is an akathist and when is it read at home and in church? Akathists to various saints

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IN Orthodox tradition Communication with God mainly occurs through prayer. This is a special text written by saints, apostles, prophets or modern priests and approved by the council of the church. We suggest you figure out what an akathist is and when Orthodox Christians read it.

Prayer texts are divided into three main types:

• thanksgiving;
• repentant;
• supplicants.

Translated from Greek language This is an “unsaddled song,” which means: a prayer during which you cannot sit down.

To be fair, it should be noted that there are not so many “non-saddle” prayer texts.

These include only the “Our Father”, commanded by God himself, “I Believe”, containing the basic church dogmas, “Worthy” or “Dostoynik” - prayers to the Most Holy Theotokos, as well as the reading of the Apostolic Epistles and the Holy Gospel.

From this you can understand what important role The akathist also plays when addressing God, the Mother of God and the saints.

This prayer is one of thanksgiving, and its content is reminiscent of the more ancient kontakion or canon. The Akathist consists of 12 parts – ikos.

A distinctive feature of this text is the use of the words “Rejoice,” “honor with songs of praise,” and “Hallelujah.”

The akathist was first found in written sources in the mid-sixth century, but there are versions that it was used earlier.

When and how it appeared is not known for certain. One of the legends says that the holy Apostle Thomas, one of the twelve closest disciples of Christ, planted the reading of songs of praise of his own composition in India, the country to which he was sent to preach.

Someone finds texts similar in content to the akathist in entries 3 and 4 Ecumenical Councils churches.

Be that as it may, in a church service this prayer was established in the year 626 with the praise of the Most Holy Theotokos “The Chosen Victorious Voivode,” which is also called the Great Akathist.

The text was written by monks after the siege of Constantinople in gratitude to the heavenly Lady for the miraculous salvation from the Slavs and Avars who wanted to capture Constantinople.

Later, many akathists were created to the saints, apostles, and the Mother of God.

But some information did reach us: they were working on their creation His Holiness Patriarch Isidore and Patriarch Philotheus, St. Nikephoros, St. Gregory, Holy Metropolitan John and others.

When is the akathist read?

To date, it is rarely encountered during church services. The church charter says in what cases such hymns are read: at the service of “Praise to the Most Holy Theotokos”, “Protection”, various prayer services, as well as in preparation for the sacraments of communion and weddings. It is mainly used in home prayer.

To read chants of praise, no special knowledge or preparation is required.

The prayers are simple and written in order; the main thing is to discard all matters and extraneous thoughts and concentrate on reading.

According to pious tradition, before reading the akathist at home, one should light a candle or lamp in front of the icon, get dressed, and tie a scarf or scarf on the woman’s head.

As the Apostle Paul said, “Every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered disgraces her own head.”

Important! It is permissible for a sick person, tired, at work or traveling to pray without additional preparation, the main thing is that the appeal comes from the heart.

The length of hymns varies greatly, but usually reading a song of praise takes no more than 10-15 minutes, much depends on how you read it. Reading the akathist, like other prayers, is extremely beneficial for the soul. Gratitude is an extremely important part of prayer communication.

Songs of praise to the Lord, the saints and the Mother of God enlighten and sanctify a person from the inside, reunite him with the Creator and help on the path of life.

The Apostle Paul said: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in everything.”

The Akathist is considered a very powerful prayer. Even reading it once has a colossal result for a person.

The person seems to be filled with light and joy from within, and good events line up to begin to happen.

Reading this prayer is useful in difficult life situations, when preparing for an important event (exam, wedding, moving), for help in certain matters, during quarrels and conflicts with neighbors, before the birth of a child and other events.

Which texts to pronounce depends on the situation and inner mood. If a person has some kind of petition, it is recommended to read the akathist daily for 40 days. It is believed that after this, a solution to the situation will certainly come or events will resolve themselves.

Akathist to the Mother of God

The Mother of God occupies a special place among the saints. Having carried and given birth to the Lord and Divine Savior of the world himself, she, as a mother, has special boldness towards him. Prayers to the Mother of God always bring quick and obvious results.

The akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos is quite common, there are about a hundred of them, each saint wanted to please the heavenly Lady and contribute their own grain to her praise. However, to this day the most widespread and powerful is considered to be the first one that has come down to us, “To the Elected Voivode of the Victorious.”

There are many beautiful chants that can be found on the Internet. A beautiful modern interpretation is the spiritual verse “Mary the Virgin Pure.”

The text has been changed to poetic form and set to melodic music.

The Psalter of King David says “Praise him (the Lord) with strings and organ,” all psalms were originally written in poetic form, which they lost due to translation, and were sung to music.

Spyridon is a great saint and educator of the Orthodox Church who lived in the 3rd and 4th centuries. Throughout his life, the righteous man sought to please the Lord, performed many miracles and brought hundreds of people to Christ. Along with other priests, he denounced the unrighteous Arius at the first Ecumenical Council.

On the path of the saint we met severe trials, but he overcame them with the power of prayer and Divine grace. Spiridon was buried in the Church of the Holy Apostles, where he had previously served for many years.

And after the death of the saint, his miracles did not end, because the saint ascended to heaven and from there intercedes with God for all those who ask him. The memory of Spyridon of Trimifuntsky is celebrated on December 25 by the Orthodox Church.

Akathist to Saint Spyridon will help every person find peace of mind.

During his life, the saint had the grace to see the secret thoughts of people and their sins.

Reading a prayer can help open a person's eyes to some events in his life and help him reconsider his behavior.

Saint Spyridon is famous as a good helper in work and acquiring wealth, but only through honest labor. If a person has fraud in mind, the saint, on the contrary, will ruin all his plans.

How to correctly read the akathist to Spyridon of Trimifuntsky? This hymn of praise must be read with appropriate preparation. To begin with, it is advisable to read the life of Saint Spyridon; it will help you acquire the appropriate prayerful attitude.

Important! Reading should take place in silence, slowly, with clear pronunciation of words. For more fruitful prayer, you can purchase an icon of St. Spyridon of Trimythous.

Useful video:

Let's sum it up

Now you know why and in what cases praise to the Lord and the Mother of God is read. Sometimes this happens - a person offers prayers, lights candles, goes to church for Divine Liturgy, asking for something, but his request is not fulfilled.

A person begins to grumble against God, and, worst of all, stops believing in him. But, as the prophet David said, “(The Lord) fulfills your desires for good.”

God knows best what a person needs, and he does everything to arrange life in the best possible way. You just need to rely on His bright will. You can see better from above!

When is the akathist read to Jesus Christ and the Most Holy Theotokos?

Hieromonk Job (Gumerov) answers:

Akathist - a special chant in honor of the Savior, Mother of God and saints. Its name (Greek) Akathistos; Where A- negative particle, kathizein- sit) indicates that it is not customary to sit while reading or singing the akathist. Akathists consist of 25 separate chants: 13 kontakia, 12 ikos, of which the 1st kontakion and all ikos end with an invocation rejoice, and 12 kontakia with an exclamation Hallelujah. The first akathist was composed in honor of the Mother of God and was sung standing all night on Saturday, the fifth week of Lent, during the siege of Constantinople by the Persians, led by the commander of Shah Khozroi Sarvar, and the Avars in 626. The capital was surrounded by sea and land. The situation was hopeless. The Mother of God showed miraculous help, and the city was saved.

In gratitude for this intercession, the Feast of Praise was established Holy Mother of God(Saturday Akathist). Tradition attributes the compilation of the akathist to the deacon of the great Church of Constantinople, George of Pisidia. At first, the service was performed only in the Blachernae Church of Constantinople, where the miraculous image of the Mother of God “Hodegetria” was located. , as well as the chasuble and belt of the Mother of God. But in the 9th century, this holiday was included in the Typik of the monasteries - Studite and St. Savva the Sanctified, and then in the Lenten Triodion. So this special holiday became universal throughout the Orthodox Church. Gradually others began to appear, following the example of the first akathist.

Apart from Saturday of the fifth week of Great Lent, akathists in honor of the Savior, the Mother of God and the saints are usually read outside of fasting, during which Christians should strictly pray for the forgiveness of their sins.

We most often turn to akathists at times of special joy and gratitude, or when we need to ask the Lord and the Mother of God for help in difficult circumstances.

In detail: the rules for reading the akathist at home - from all open sources and different parts of the world on the website for our dear readers.

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Akathists in Orthodoxy

Akathist is usually called a special poetic form, a song of praise in honor of Jesus, the Mother of God or saints. In their form and essence, these chants are very close to the more ancient kontakia.

Each akathist includes 25 songs: the main kontakion, followed by 12 kontakia are arranged in succession(songs of praise), alternating with 12 ikos (extensive songs). All songs are arranged in order of letters in the Greek alphabet. The first kontakion and all ikos end with the refrain “Rejoice!”, and all kontakia end with the refrain “Alleluia.” Traditionally, the last kontakion is addressed to the one to whom the entire hymn is dedicated, and is read three times in a row.

The word “akathist” translated from ancient Greek means “unsaddled singing.” This solemn chant can only be performed while standing.

When to read

You can turn to the Mother of God and the saints of God, calling for help in the following situations:

1. You should pronounce an ode of praise in those moments when your soul is very heavy. This sacred song will help fill the soul with joy and harmony.
2. You can pray, relying on the help of saints in worldly affairs.
3. If doubts creep into your soul, and there is no opportunity to consult with a cleric, you can read a hymn of praise yourself. This will help you cast aside doubts and gain confidence in yourself and in God’s help.
4. By reading the akathist, you can heal physical and mental illnesses. It is very important to firmly believe in the help of Heaven.

Reading at home

Women often ask whether it is possible to read akathists during menstrual periods. There are no prohibitions on this topic and you can without a doubt turn to Heaven if a spiritual need arises.

Reading order

When reading separately from morning or evening prayer, a certain sequence of prayers is first said, then Psalm 50 and the Creed are read.

Reading the akathist himself happens in a certain sequence. Kontakion 13 is repeated three times in a row, immediately followed by ikos 1, followed by 1 kontakion.

At the conclusion of the reading, certain prayers are offered. You can find their texts and sequence in any prayer book.

As you read, you may come across some generally accepted Orthodox literature abbreviations:

1. If it is written “Glory:” or “Trinity:”, you should say “Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
2. Instead of the words “And now” or “Theotokos” the words “And Amen” are pronounced.
3. The abbreviation “Glory, and now:” is usually understood as a sequential combination of these two exclamations.

Which chants to choose for everyday needs

In every everyday need (for every need) you can resort to the help of certain Saints or the Icon of the Mother of God.

Appeals to the Blessed Virgin Mary

Akathists to various saints

There is a list of prayer chants that allow you to turn to the saints in every need and everyday sorrow:

In the Orthodox tradition it is accepted Akathist to the Guardian Angel read on Mondays. Why this particular day was chosen is not known to everyone. In the Church, the first day of the week is considered the day of the Angel. Turning to your guardian angel on this particular day will help you live safely throughout the week.

This is not a complete list of solemn church chants. If on a holiday a canon and an akathist are read for the same holiday or icon, the reading of the akathist should begin after the sixth song of the canon instead of the kontakion and ikos given there.

When reading an akathist or canon in private (at home), the usual beginning and end of prayers are used. The same familiar beginning and ending are found in morning prayers. Therefore, if the akathist or canon is read in conjunction with the morning or evening rule, there is no need to read the prayers below. The akathist or canon is read in this case after the morning or evening prayers, before the end of the prayers, i.e. before the prayer “It is worthy to eat.”

A Min.

Prayer to the Holy Spirit

From Easter to Ascension, instead of this prayer we read: “ X Christos rose from the dead, trampling death over death, and giving life to those in the tombs” (three times). From the Ascension to Trinity we do not read it at all.

Trisagion

WITH A Min.

Prayer to the Holy Trinity

Lord have mercy. (Thrice). WITH lava, and now:

Instead of " WITH lava, and now:" reads " WITH glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. A min." Instead of " WITH lava:" reads " WITHAND now:" reads " AND now and ever and unto ages of ages. A min."

Lord's Prayer

ABOUT ́

(Bow)

(Bow)

(Bow)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your great mercy, and according to the multitude of Your compassions, cleanse my iniquity. Above all, wash me from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin; For I know my iniquity, and I will bear away my sin before me. I have sinned against You alone and have done evil before You, so that You may be justified in Your words and triumph over Your judgment. Behold, I was conceived in iniquity, and my mother gave birth to me in sins. Behold, you have loved the truth; You have shown me Your unknown and secret wisdom. Sprinkle me with hyssop, and I will be clean; Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. There is joy and gladness in my ears; the bones of the humble will rejoice. Turn away Your face from my sins and cleanse all my iniquities. Create a pure heart in me, O God, and renew a right spirit in my womb. Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of Your salvation and strengthen me with the Lord’s Spirit. I will teach the wicked your way, and wickedness will turn to you. Deliver me from bloodshed, O God, God of my salvation; my tongue will rejoice in Your righteousness. Lord, open my mouth, and my mouth will declare Your praise. As if you had desired sacrifices, you would have given them: you do not favor burnt offerings. The sacrifice to God is a broken spirit; God will not despise a contrite and humble heart. Bless Zion, O Lord, with Your favor, and may the walls of Jerusalem be built. Then take pleasure in the sacrifice of righteousness, the offering and the burnt offering; then they will place your calf on the altar.

Symbol of faith

1IN

Common abbreviations. Instead of the inscription “Glory:” or “Trinity:”, it reads “Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Instead of the inscription “And now:” or “Theotokos:” it reads “And now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen". Instead of “Glory, and now:” it reads “Amen”.

A note on reading the canon. Irmos is sung at the service in the voice of the canon. If you can't sing, you can read it. Each canticle consists of troparia. Before reading each troparion, a chorus is added. Holidays: Glory to Thee, our God, glory to Thee. Theotokos: Most Holy Theotokos, save us. To the Saints: Our Saint Nicholas, pray to God for us; Reverend Our Father Sergius, pray to God for us; Our holy blessed mother Ksenia, pray to God for us. If the troparion is preceded by the designation “Glory:” or “Trinity:”, then the troparion is dedicated to the Lord and instead of the chorus, “Glory:” is read (see generally accepted abbreviations). If the troparion is inscribed “And now:” or “Theotokos:”, then it is dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos and is also read without a chorus. If there is no trinity in the song, but only the Mother of God, “Glory, and now:” is read before it. If not and the Mother of God (in the canons of the Most Holy Theotokos), then “Glory, and now:” is read after all the troparions. In the eighth canto, instead of “Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,” it reads “Let us bless the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit of the Lord.” After the 3rd and 6th songs (during home reading), “Lord, have mercy” is read three times.

The canons presented on the Akathistnik are intended, first of all, for home reading and contain some simplifications (similarities, catastrophes, numbers of voices, repetitions of troparia, etc. have been removed). Texts for the service are available in “green” and “brown” menaions.

Note on reading the akathist(placed in each akathist after the 13th kontakion). The first 12 kontakia and ikos are usually read. Kontakion 13 is read three times with bows. After this, the 1st ikos is read, which is located at the beginning of the akathist, immediately after the 1st kontakion. Then the 1st kontakion is read. After it, the prayers located at the end of the akathist are read.

The combination of canons is carried out in accordance with the Typikon or liturgical instructions. If you do not have these books at hand or you do not know how to use them, you can follow a simplified procedure. The canons for the Lord and the holidays are read first. The second is to the Most Holy Theotokos. Third - saints, saints, martyrs, righteous people and other saints. At the beginning of each song, the irmos of the first canon is read, then all its troparia with choruses are read in turn, then the troparia of the next song of the second canon, etc.

Connecting the canon with the akathist

End of prayers

From Easter to Ascension, instead of this prayer, the chorus and irmos of the 9th song of the Easter canon are read:

A ́

Glory, and now: G Lord, have mercy. (Thrice)

A Min.

Akathist They call a song of praise in honor of the Savior, the Mother of God, saints or any holidays (events).

Any akathist consists of 25 songs (in accordance with the Greek alphabet). Thirteen of them are called kontakia (songs of praise), and twelve are called ikoses (extensive songs), which explain the essence of the festive event. It is because of this that ikos is never read independently, but only after reading the kontakion. All ikos, with rare exceptions, end with the word “Rejoice,” and at the end of kontakia you can always hear “hallelujah,” which means “praise God.” After the reading of the kontakion there is always an ikos, which, as a rule, is divided into two parts. The last kontakion is considered an appeal to the one to whom the akathist is dedicated. By tradition, it is repeated three times in a row. The akathist is always followed by reading a prayer.

Akathists are not a statutory, obligatory liturgical rite. At services in churches, only the Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos “Copped up Voivode...” is necessarily read on the Saturday of Praise of the Most Holy Theotokos, during the fifth week of Great Lent. IN modern practice During Great Lent, the Akathist of the Passion of the Lord is also used in the rite of Passion, which is served on Sunday evenings in the 2nd-5th weeks of Great Lent.

Akathists in honor of holidays are sometimes read at Matins of a festive service or at a prayer service on the very day of the holiday. In general, at prayer services they often resort to reading akathists. This is how the order of reading the Paraklisis of the Mother of God developed, where at the prayer service after the sixth song of the canon, an akathist to the Mother of God (or to her icons) is read.

Calling for help in everyday needs The holy saints of God read akathists to them, to the icons of the Mother of God.

No special instructions in the Charter for reading akathists in church and during cell (home) prayer. But from general church practice a rule can be derived: During Great Lent it is not customary to read akathists, except for the Akathist to the Mother of God on the 5th week (on Saturday) and the Akathist to the Passion of Christ. On all other days of the year, reading akathists is permitted.

The akathist itself has a special sequence. So the 13th kontakion is read three times, and immediately after it the first ikos is repeated again, after which the first kontakion is read. At the end of the akathist, a prayer is read.

What akathists to read for everyday needs
(for every need)

Akathists to the icons of the Mother of God

• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in honor of Her Icon “The All-Tsarina”
  The miraculous help of the Most Holy Theotokos, given to believers from this icon, is manifested in healing from cancer, in getting rid of addiction to the occult, in helping parents for their children who have left home and found themselves captive to drug addiction and many other temptations of our time
• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in front of Her icon called “Education”
  The miraculous image received its name from the fact that the gracious help of the Most Pure Mother of God was especially often poured out on parents praying before it and grieving over the fate of their children.
• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in honor of Her Mammal Icon
  About assistance in childbirth and raising babies
• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in honor of Her icon “The Burning Bush”
  Has the special grace to protect from fire and fire, as well as to help innocently accused and patronize family well-being
• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in honor of Her Icon “Inexhaustible Chalice”
  Through miraculous icon This Most Holy Theotokos shows special help in getting rid of the disease of drunkenness, smoking and drug addiction to everyone who resorts to Her help with faith
• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in honor of Her Icon “Kazan”
  Has special grace to help in victory over the enemy, patronizes Christian marriages, heals various ailments, especially eye diseases
• Akathist to the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary
  The icon of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos depicts an event that took place at the end of the 10th century in Constantinople. Blessed Andrew, the Fool for Christ's sake, praying in the Blachernae Church with his disciple Epiphanius, was rewarded with a vision of the Mother of God with a gathering of angels and saints. The Most Pure One spread Her omophorion over the world and covered all faithful Christians with it. The icon and the holiday of the Intercession are especially revered in Rus'. Many elders advised Christians of recent times to especially diligently call on the Protection of the Mother of God for deliverance from temptations and snares of the Antichrist
• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in honor of Her icon “Quick to Hear”
  The icon is located on Mount Athos. Through this image, the Most Holy Theotokos provided instant healing from various ailments many times.
• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in honor of Her icon “Quench my sorrows”
  In the icon, the Mother of God seems to be listening to the prayers of believers who come running to Her in their needs, sorrows and sorrows. The image has been known since the 17th century and was located in one of the churches near Moscow. The chronicles contain many cases of miraculous help to people, accomplished by the icon “Quench My Sorrows”
• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in honor of Her Icon “Softening” evil hearts»
  Read to soften evil hearts and pacify those at war. The number seven in this case means the fullness of the grief, sadness and heart disease that were suffered by the Most Holy Theotokos in Her earthly life
• Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in honor of Her Icon “Healer”
  The image comes from Georgia and received its name from the miraculous healing given to a seriously ill man when the Most Holy Theotokos appeared to him. Before the “Healer” icon they pray for healing from various ailments

Akathists to the saints

• Akathist to all the saints who have pleased God from all eternity
  All of them are our intercessors before God in all sorrow and need.
• Akathist to Saint Archangel Michael
  Archangel Michael (in translation from Hebrew - “who is like God”) was placed by the Lord over all nine angelic ranks. Since ancient times he has been glorified in Rus'. The Most Holy Theotokos and Archangel Michael are special representatives for Russian cities. The faith of Orthodox Christians in the help of Archangel Michael in all troubles, sorrows, and needs is strong. They pray to Archangel Michael at the entrance to a new house
• Akathist to the Holy Guardian Angel
  God gives every Christian a Guardian Angel, who invisibly protects a person throughout his entire life. earthly life from troubles and misfortunes, warns against sins, protects at the hour of death. Guardian angel - an ambulance in any need or illness
• Akathist to the Holy Forerunner of the Lord John
  As a preacher of repentance, they pray to him to bestow a feeling of repentance. In Rus', they prayed to the saint for the protection of crops and fertility, during the consecration of the beekeeper
• Akathist to the Holy Blessed Grand Duke Alexander Nevsky, in monks Alexy
  The holy noble prince Alexander, nicknamed Nevsky for his victory over the Swedes, put all his strength into the sacred cause of defending the Russian land. They pray to him during disasters and invasions of enemies or for protection from the invasion of foreigners and people of other faiths.
• Akathist to the Holy Martyr Boniface
  They pray to the Holy Martyr Boniface for deliverance from the disease of drunkenness and gluttony
• Akathist to the holy martyrs Guria, Samon and Aviv
  They pray to the holy martyrs for the protection of the family hearth, for good relationships in the family
• Akathist to the Holy Great Martyr George the Victorious
  Yegor the Brave, as this saint is popularly called, is the patron saint of the Russian land, statehood and military power, families, children, helper in grief and adversity. They especially pray to him about the danger of attacks from wild animals. Holy Martyr George - protector of herds and livestock
• Akathist to the Holy Blessed Grand Duke Daniel, Moscow Wonderworker
  With non-covetousness, love and brotherly love, he elevated Moscow and laid the foundation for the unification of Rus' into a single powerful country. Many who resort to Holy Prince Daniel in prayers also receive help in various needs.
• Akathist to the holy prophet of God Elijah
  It is said about this saint: “Pray, and heaven and rain, and heaven.” They also pray to him for help during times of famine, in difficult life and material circumstances.
• Akathist to the saint To Righteous John Kronstadtsky
  In childhood, the saint is right. John had trouble reading and writing, and after fervent prayer, it was as if a veil fell from the boy’s eyes, and he began to read. Among other prayers to the great miracle worker, prayers are offered to him to help children study
• Akathist to the Holy Wonderworker John the Warrior
  Saint John the Warrior, sent to persecute and kill Christians, provided great help to the persecuted. He devoted his entire life to serving his neighbors. The martyr warrior exposed the thieves for theft. They pray to him to find stolen things, from theft, from offenders
• Akathist to Saint Blessed Xenia of Petersburg
  Blessed Ksenia is an ambulance in everyday needs, in family matters. Through the prayers of the blessed one they get rid of illnesses, sorrows, disorder and troubles
• Akathist to Saint Nicholas
  Saint Nicholas, one of the most revered saints in Rus', was glorified by God for the gift of miracles and healings. They pray to him for help in various troubles, in need, for the arrangement of the fate of children, for well-being on the journey by land and sea
• Akathist to Saint Spyridon, Bishop of Trimifuntsky
  Many of his miracles include miracles of healing the sick and helping the suffering. During his lifetime, the saint became famous for his meekness, kindness, hospitality and hard work. In Rus', Saint Spyridon was venerated on a par with Saint Nicholas
• Akathist to our venerable and God-bearing father Seraphim, the Wonderworker of Sarov
  Great mentor, comforter and healer, Venerable Seraphim- an ambulance to everyone who seeks his help
• Akathist Reverend Father to our Sergius, the Wonderworker of Radonezh
  As a child, St. Sergius had difficulty learning, but after fervent prayer, God sent him an Angel in the form of an old man who blessed the boy. They pray to St. Sergius for children who find it difficult to study. People resort to the prayers of the monk to acquire humility and get rid of pride
• Akathist to the Holy Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon
  He dedicated his entire life to the suffering, sick and poor. He “treated everyone free of charge” who turned to him, healing wounds, curing all diseases
• Akathist to the holy passion-bearer Tsar-Martyr Nicholas
  The heavenly intercessor of our Fatherland has the special grace to heal various ailments
• Akathist to Saint Luke (Voino-Yasenetsky), confessor, Archbishop of Crimea
  They pray to Saint Luke for deliverance from all weakness and illness.
• Akathist to the Holy Great Martyr Anastasia the Pattern Maker
  They pray to the Great Martyr Anastasia the Pattern Maker for the healing of various ailments and for liberation from captivity and imprisonment
• Akathist to the holy martyrs Cyprian and Ustinia
  They pray to drive away evil spirits from people and animals, against harm from psychics, sorcerers, wizards, and evil people
• Akathist to the Holy Supreme Apostles Peter and Paul
  They pray to the great teachers of Orthodoxy for an increase in faith. They pray to the Holy Apostle Peter for healing - the Savior healed the apostle’s mother-in-law, “lying there and burned by fire.” They also pray to the Apostle Peter for successful fishing, for success in fishing
• Akathist to the Venerable Matrona of Moscow
  They pray to Saint Matronushka for help in various everyday situations and for healing in illnesses
• Akathist to the martyrs Vera, Nadezhda, Lyubov and their mother Sophia
  They pray to the holy martyrs Vera, Nadezhda, Lyubov and their mother Sophia in sorrows and adversities for steadfastness in the faith
• Akathist to Saint Mitrofan, Voronezh Wonderworker
  They especially pray to the saint for the life of children
• Akathist to the Holy Great Martyr Barbara
  The saint asked the Lord that everyone would repent and receive communion before their death. Through the prayers of the Holy Martyr. Abundant healing is sent to the barbarians. The saint also prays for children, for help in despondency, sadness, consolation in sadness
• Akathist to St. Catherine the Great Martyr
  In Rus', the holy martyr. The girls especially prayed to Catherine to find a good groom. People also resorted to the help of the saint during difficult childbirths.
• Akathist to the holy righteous Godfather Joachim and Anna
  These saints bore bitter barrenness until old age, then, with the blessing of God, they gave birth to the Most Holy Theotokos. They are prayed to in marital infertility or childlessness. For a long time in Rus', these saints were prayed to before sowing, for the protection of crops, fruits, and harvests.

Reading akathists during the week

The service of each day of the week corresponds to the memory of a particular event or saint. In accordance with this rule, the practice arose of reading akathists throughout the week, imitating the weekly liturgical circle:

The order of reading akathists.

Reading akathists separately from the morning and evening prayer rules.

Through the prayers of the saints, our fathers, Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us (three times, with the sign of the cross and bows from the waist).

Most Holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse our sins. Master, forgive our iniquities. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities, for Thy name's sake.

Lord, have mercy (three times).

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Our Father, who art in heaven. Hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done as it is in Heaven and on earth. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors, and do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.

Lord, have mercy (12 times).

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Come, let us worship our God the King (bow).

Come, let us bow down and bow down to Christ our King God (bow).

Come, let us bow and fall before Christ Himself, the King and our God (bow).

Psalm 50.

Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your great mercy, and according to the multitude of Your mercies, cleanse my iniquity. Above all, wash me from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my iniquity and bear away my sin before me. I have sinned against You alone, and I have created evil before You, so that You may be justified in Your words and overcome, never judge You. Behold, I was conceived in iniquity, and my mother gave birth to me in sins. Behold, Thou hast loved the truth, Thou hast revealed to me Thy unknown and secret wisdom. Sprinkle me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Give joy and gladness to my hearing; humble bones will rejoice. Turn Your face away from my sins, and cleanse all my iniquities. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a right spirit in my womb. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit away from me. Reward me with the joy of Your salvation, and strengthen me with the Master’s Spirit. I will teach the wicked Your way, and the wicked will turn to You. Deliver me from bloodshed, O God, God of my salvation; my tongue will rejoice in Your righteousness. Lord, open my mouth, and my mouth will declare Your praise. As if you had wanted sacrifices, you would have given burnt offerings, but you would not have been pleased. The sacrifice to God is a broken spirit, a contrite and humble heart, God will not despise. Bless Zion, O Lord, with Your favor, and may the walls of Jerusalem be built. Then you will be pleased with the sacrifice of righteousness, the wave offering and the burnt offering, then they will lay the bullock on Your altar.

Symbol of faith

I believe in One God, the Father, Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, visible to all and invisible. And in the One Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Only Begotten, Who was born of the Father before all ages; Light from Light, true God from true God, born, uncreated, consubstantial with the Father, to Whom all things were. For our sake, man and our salvation came down from heaven and became incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became human. She was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried. And he rose again on the third day according to the Scriptures. And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father. And again the coming one will be judged with glory by the living and the dead, His Kingdom will have no end. And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Life-Giving One, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who spoke the prophets. Into one Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. I confess one baptism for the remission of sins. Tea resurrection of the dead, and the life of the next century. Amen.

Then the akathist (read after the 6th song of the canon).

Upon completion of the reading of the canon - a prayer to the Lord Jesus Christ or the Mother of God, a saint - according to the meaning of the akathist. Then:

It is worthy to eat, as you truly bless Theotokos, Ever-Blessed and Most Immaculate and Mother of Our God. The most honorable Cherub and the Most Glorious without comparison Seraphim, who gave birth to God the Word without corruption, the real Mother of God, we magnify You.

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Lord, have mercy (three times).

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, prayers for the sake of Your Most Pure Mother, our reverend and God-bearing fathers, the saint (the name of the saint to whom the akathist was read, if to the Lord or the Mother of God, then we say nothing) and all the saints x, have mercy and save me, a sinner, for Good and Lover of Humanity. Amen.

If to the Cross - by the power of the Honest and Life-giving Cross

If Angels - Honest Heavenly Forces Ethereal

Anyone, even a novice Orthodox Christian today knows that a churchgoer Churched- a person who is not just a believer and baptized, but lives a church life: he understands the purpose of his stay in the Church, trying to the best of his ability to fulfill all church statutes and orders; a believer needs to read the canons and akathists. Neophytes often compete with each other to see who can read these prayers the most per day, which is undoubtedly a sinful manifestation of spiritual pride. However, most akathists and canonists are intended for experienced people and contain only the texts of canons and akathists, without any explanation of how to read them correctly at home privately. Let's try to clarify this issue.

What are canons and akathists?

In the liturgical Orthodox tradition, there are several types of special prayer sequences. These include more traditional canons, as well as those who received greater distribution in the Russian Church in the 19th-20th centuries - akathists.

Canon- a church hymn dedicated to the glorification of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Trinity, the Blessed Virgin Mary, any holiday or saint. In temple worship, the canons are included in Matins, Compline, Midnight Office and others.

The canon is composed of songs, each of which, in turn, consists of an irmos Irmos- the first stanza in each song of the canon, in which sacred events or persons are glorified. Irmos serves as a melodic-metric model for subsequent troparions of this song. Irmos texts are mostly paraphrases Holy Scripture. At the service, the irmos are sung in chorus according to the weekly voice and several troparions. Troparion- a short chant in which the essence of the holiday is revealed or the saint(s) are glorified. The troparion of the holiday reveals its essence and glorifies it. The troparion to the saint reveals the features of the saint’s feat, glorifies his life and holiness (usually from two to six, but there are special ones, for example, the Great Penitential Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, read during Lent, canons, where there can be up to 30 of them). The theme of each song is biblical songs, which in ancient times were read before the songs of the canon, and currently are read only at the Matins services of Great Lent.

A canon can have 2, 3, 4, 8 or 9 songs. The three- and four-canon canons are usually read at the services of Lent and Pentecost. There is only one nine-song song - the Great Canon of St. Andrey Kritsky. The two-song song is also the only one read on Holy Tuesday. Usually the canons are eight songs long. In fact, these are nine-song canons in which the second canon is missing.

Irmos connects in meaning the biblical song and troparia, revealing the main theme of the canon. Before the ninth hymn of the canon, at the Matins service, the song of the Theotokos is sung, “My soul magnifies the Lord...” and the chorus glorifying the Theotokos, “The most honorable Cherub...”. On some of the twelve feasts, instead of the song of the Mother of God, special holiday chants are sung.

In the tradition of divine services of the Russian Church, irmos are usually sung and troparia are read. The exception is the Easter canon, which is sung in full. In the Byzantine tradition, the canons were sung in full.

The first canons were written by Sts. Andrew of Crete and John of Damascus in the 7th century.

Akathist- a form of church poetry close to ancient kontakia Kontakion- a genre of church Byzantine hymnography in the form of a poetic narrative sermon dedicated to one or another church holiday- a special song of praise in honor of the Savior, the Mother of God or saints.

The akathist consists of 25 songs, which are arranged in order of the letters of the Greek alphabet: one main kontakion with a specific ending or chorus and 12 kontakia. Here: a short song of praise, alternating with 12 ikos. Ikos is a lengthy song. The ikos end with the exclamation “Rejoice,” and the kontakia end with “Hallelujah” (in Hebrew, “praise God”).

At the same time, the ikos end with the same refrain as the first kontakion, and all other kontakia end with the refrain “Alleluia.”

Reading canons and akathists at home

As we have already seen above, canons and akathists are an integral part of temple worship. However, it is very beneficial to read them at home, privately. In particular, the canons of Jesus Christ, the Most Holy Theotokos and the Guardian Angel, together with the canon for Holy Communion, are included in the mandatory home prayer rule of a Christian during preparation for Communion. Sometimes an akathist to the Sweetest Jesus is also added to it.

Home (cell) prayer

For Orthodox Christians who wish to take on an additional feat of prayer, with the blessing of their confessor, they can read other canons and akathists. However, one should be careful here so that spiritual pride does not arise, and also that after taking on disproportionate prayer work on oneself, spiritual cooling does not set in, when all prayer is abandoned altogether. This is where many new “ascetics” stumbled. The Holy Fathers teach that it is better to pray little by little, but constantly, rather than immediately burden yourself with an overwhelming prayer rule, and when God’s Grace leaves you for a while, stop reading even the obligatory prayers.

How to begin and end canons and akathists?

If you begin to read canons or akathists at home (in private), then you should use the usual beginning and ending of morning and evening prayers. The canon for Holy Communion in prayer books has its own beginning and does not end, like ordinary prayers. Other canons and akathists, if read as part of the morning or evening prayer rule, then again there is no need to precede them with opening prayers. Just read the akathist or canon immediately after morning or evening prayers, before the usual end of prayers, i.e. before the prayer “It is worthy to eat.”

Reading canons and akathists at home: prayers before reading

Through the prayers of the saints, our fathers, Lord Jesus Christ, our God, have mercy on us. A Min.

Glory to Thee, our God, glory to Thee.

Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Heavenly King, Comforter, Soul of truth, Who is everywhere and fulfills everything, Treasure of good things and Giver of life, come and dwell in us, and cleanse us from all filthiness, and save, O Good One, ours ours.

Note: from Easter to the Ascension of Christ, instead of praying to the Holy Spirit, we read the troparion of Easter: “ X Christ rose from the dead, trampling death upon death, and giving life to those in the tombs” (three times), and from the Ascension to Trinity we do not read it at all

Trisagion

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us. (Read three times, with the sign of the cross and bow from the waist.)

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. A Min.

Prayer to the Holy Trinity

Most Holy Trinity, have mercy on us; Lord, cleanse our sins; Master, forgive our iniquities; Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities, for Thy name's sake.

Lord have mercy. (Thrice). WITH lava, and now:

Note: instead of " WITH lava, and now:" reads " WITH glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. A min." Instead of " WITH lava:" reads " WITH“lava to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Instead of " AND now:" reads " AND now and ever and unto ages of ages. A min."

Lord's Prayer

ABOUT ́ Our dear, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done, as it is in Heaven and on earth. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, just as we forgive our debtors; and do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.

Come, let us worship the King our God. (Bow)

Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ, our King God. (Bow)

Come, let us bow and fall down to Christ Himself, the King and our God. (Bow)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your great mercy, and according to the multitude of Your compassions, cleanse my iniquity. Above all, wash me from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin; For I know my iniquity, and I will bear away my sin before me. I have sinned against You alone and have done evil before You, so that You may be justified in Your words and triumph over Your judgment. Behold, I was conceived in iniquities, and my mother gave birth to me in sins. Behold, you have loved the truth; You have shown me Your unknown and secret wisdom. Sprinkle me with hyssop, and I will be clean; Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. There is joy and gladness in my ears; the bones of the humble will rejoice. Turn away Your face from my sins and cleanse all my iniquities. Create a pure heart in me, O God, and renew a right spirit in my womb. Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of Your salvation and strengthen me with the Lord’s Spirit. I will teach the wicked your way, and wickedness will turn to you. Deliver me from bloodshed, O God, God of my salvation; my tongue will rejoice in Your righteousness. Lord, open my mouth, and my mouth will declare Your praise. As if you had desired sacrifices, you would have given them: you do not favor burnt offerings. The sacrifice to God is a broken spirit; God will not despise a contrite and humble heart. Bless Zion, O Lord, with Your favor, and may the walls of Jerusalem be built. Then take pleasure in the sacrifice of righteousness, the offering and the burnt offering; then they will place your calf on the altar.

Symbol of faith

1IN I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, visible to all and invisible. 2And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the only begotten, who was born of the Father before all ages. Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, uncreated, consubstantial with the Father, to whom all things were. 3 For our sake man and for our salvation, who came down from heaven and became incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became human. 4 He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried. 5And he rose again on the third day according to the Scriptures. 6And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father. 7 And the one who is to come will judge with glory the living and the dead, whose kingdom will have no end. 8And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Life-Giving One, who proceeds from the Father, who is with the Father and the Son, we are worshiped and glorified, who spoke the prophets. 9Into one Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. 10I confess one baptism for the remission of sins. 11I look forward to the resurrection of the dead, 12and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Here we read the akathist or canon.

Common abbreviations.

A note on reading the canons. Irmos is sung at the service in the voice of the canon. If you can't sing, you can read it. Each canticle consists of troparia. Before reading each troparion, a chorus is added. Holidays: Glory to Thee, our God, glory to Thee. Theotokos: Most Holy Theotokos, save us. Saints (example): Our Saint Nicholas, pray to God for us; Reverend Our Father Sergius, pray to God for us; Our holy blessed mother Ksenia, pray to God for us. If the troparion is preceded by the designation “Glory:” or “Trinity:”, then the troparion is dedicated to the Lord and instead of the chorus, “Glory:” is read (see above for the generally accepted abbreviations). If the troparion is inscribed “And now:” or “Theotokos:”, then it is dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos and is also read without a chorus.

If there is no trinity in the song, but only the Mother of God, “Glory, and now:” is read before it. If not and the Mother of God (in the canons of the Most Holy Theotokos), then “Glory, and now:” is read after all the troparions.

In the eighth canto, instead of “Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,” it reads “Let us bless the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit of the Lord.” After the 3rd and 6th songs (during home reading), “Lord, have mercy” is read three times.

Canons for home reading are usually simplified compared to liturgical ones: similarities, catastrophes, numbers of voices, repetitions of troparions, etc. are removed from them. If you can sing and know the voices, then you can sing the irmos of the canons for the tone of the week (usually indicated in the church calendar).

A note on reading akathists. The first 12 kontakia and ikos are usually read. Kontakion 13 is read three times with bows. After this, the 1st ikos is read again, which is located at the beginning of the akathist, immediately after the 1st kontakion. Then the 1st kontakion is read. After it, the prayers located in the akathist book at the end of the akathist are read.

A combination of two or more canons. The combination of canons is carried out in accordance with the Typikon or liturgical instructions. If you do not have these books, then you can follow a simplified procedure. The canons for the Lord and the holidays are read first. The second is to the Most Holy Theotokos. Third - saints, saints, martyrs, righteous people and other saints. At the beginning of each song, the irmos of the first canon is read, then all its troparia with choruses are read in turn, then the troparia of the next song of the second canon, etc.

How to combine canons and akathists(if the canon and akathist are for the same holiday, or an icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, or a saint). The Akathist is read after the 6th song of the canon instead of the kontakion and ikos, which are given in the canon.

We read the canons and akathists at home: closing prayers

It is worthy to eat as you truly bless Theotokos, Ever-Blessed and Most Immaculate and Mother of our God. We magnify Thee, the most honorable Cherub and the most glorious without comparison, the Seraphim, without corruption of God the Word, the real Mother of God (bow).

Note: from Easter to Ascension, instead of this prayer, the so-called Zadostoynik: chorus and irmos of the 9th song of the Easter canon:

A ́ The angel cried out with more grace: Pure Virgin, rejoice! And again I say: Rejoice! Your Son has risen three days from the grave and raised up the dead; people, have fun! Shine, shine, new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. Rejoice now and be glad, O Zion. You, Pure One, rejoice, O Mother of God, about the rise of Your Nativity.

Glory, and now: G Lord, have mercy. (Thrice)

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, through the prayers of Your Most Pure Mother, our reverend and God-bearing fathers and all the saints, have mercy and save us, as you are Good and Lover of Mankind. A Min.

Semipoklonny began

In the Old Believer Church, at the beginning of any prayer rule, as well as worship, from ancient times special prayers with bows were used, which were called the “seven-bow beginning.” After the reform of Patriarch Nikon, these prayers were removed from worship, but in some complete prayer books for the laity they are present, since they are not canonically incorrect, and therefore can be used when performing the cell (home) prayer rule before the initial prayers described above. This equally applies to the case when you are going to read canons and akathists.

Akathist is the name given to a genre in Orthodox church chants, but initially this was the name of the only work of this style that was written in honor of the Mother of God - “The Great Akathist.” This akathist is sung without fail at the service, which is held every year in Orthodox monasteries on Saturday morning on the fifth. Of course, this is not the only day when akathists are read at services in Orthodox churches, but this genre is more likely attributed to cell prayers, and it is not included in the daily cycle of worship.

When to read an Orthodox akathist

Each person decides for himself when to read the akathist. It happens that people start reading due to a certain need or at the call of the heart, and sometimes the priest gives instructions. It also happens that inexperienced parishioners begin to read, completely unaware of how to read the akathist correctly. Of course, a priest can answer all your questions, but many believe that it is more convenient to find the necessary information on the Internet. In its turn, Orthodox Church has been actively using Christian sites for a long time, which allow distributing a large amount of information. Orthodox websites contain texts of prayers, akathists, and absolutely everything that relates to the Orthodox Church.

It is very useful to listen to choral church singing, which can be found on Orthodox websites. Listening to the akathist in the recording, you will better understand the placement of stresses and the meaning of the work, which means you will learn how to read the akathist correctly. Works of this genre are widespread on the Internet and you can find absolutely anything that interests you.

How to read the akathist yourself

An akathist in its sense is similar to a hymn. Therefore, when they read the akathist, they do not sit down. An exception is made for frail old people and sick people who are unable to rise. It is better to read the akathist in front of the icon of the Saint to whom it is addressed. Read about the life of this Saint to better understand when to read the akathist and in what need. As you begin reading, say the prayers: “Through the prayers of the holy Fathers...”, “Glory to Thee, our God...”, “O Heavenly King...”, “The Trisagion” according to the “Our Father”, and finishing: “It is worthy...”, “Glory even now.” , Lord have mercy (say three times), “Through the prayers of the holy Fathers...”. When reading the akathist, your head should be fresh and not burdened with other thoughts, which means the morning hours are ideal for chanting this genre.

Text of Orthodox prayer for birthday

Lord God, Ruler of the whole world, visible and invisible. All the days and years of my life depend on Your holy will. I thank You, most merciful Father, that You allowed me to live another year; I know that due to my sins I am unworthy of this mercy, but You show it to me out of Your ineffable love for mankind. Extend Your mercies to me, a sinner; continue my life in virtue, tranquility, health, peace with all relatives and in harmony with all neighbors. Give me an abundance of the fruits of the earth and everything that is necessary to satisfy my needs. Most of all, cleanse my conscience, strengthen me on the path of salvation, so that, following it, after many years of life in this world, having passed into eternal life, I will be worthy to be the heir of Your Heavenly Kingdom. Lord Himself, bless the year I am beginning and all the days of my life. Amen.

Common to all akathists.

"Sedmipoklonny began"

(for example - prayers for Christmas)

God, be merciful to me, a sinner ( bow).

God, cleanse me, a sinner, and have mercy on me ( bow).

Who created me, O Lord, have mercy on me ( bow).

Without number of sinners, Lord, forgive me ( bow).

My Lady, Most Holy Theotokos, save me, a sinner ( bow).

Angel, my holy guardian, save me from all evil ( bow).

Holy Apostle ( or martyr , or reverend father , Name), pray to God for me ( bow).

Glory to Thee, our God, glory to Thee.

Heavenly King, Comforter, Soul of truth, Who is everywhere and fulfills everything, Treasure of good things and Giver of life, come and dwell in us, and cleanse us from all filth, and save, O Good One, our souls.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us. ( Three times, with the sign of the cross and a bow from the waist)

Our Father, who art in heaven! Hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, as it is in heaven and on earth. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, just as we forgive our debtors; and do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.

Lord have mercy ( 12 ).

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Come, let us worship our God the King ( bow).

Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ, our King God ( bow).

Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ Himself, the King and our God ( bow).

Psalm 50

Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your great mercy, and according to the multitude of Your mercies, cleanse my iniquity. Above all, wash me from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin; for I know my iniquity, and I will take away my sin before me. To You alone have I sinned and done evil before You; for you may be justified in all of Your words, and you will always triumph over Your judgment. Behold, I was conceived in iniquity, and my mother gave birth to me in sins. Behold, you have loved the truth; You have revealed to me the unknown and secret wisdom of Yours. Sprinkle me with hyssop, and I will be cleansed; Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. My hearing brings joy and joy; humble bones will rejoice. Turn Your face away from my sins and cleanse all my iniquities. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a right spirit in my womb. Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit away from me. Reward me with the joy of Your salvation and strengthen me with the Lord’s Spirit. I will teach the wicked Your way, and the wicked will turn to You. Deliver me from bloodshed, O God, God of my salvation; My tongue will rejoice in Your righteousness. Lord, open my mouth, and my mouth will declare Your praise. As if you had desired sacrifices, you would have given them: you do not favor burnt offerings. The sacrifice to God is a broken spirit; God will not despise a broken and humble heart. Bless Zion, O Lord, with Your favor, and may the walls of Jerusalem be built. Then favor the sacrifice of righteousness, the offering and the burnt offering; Then they will place the bullock on Your altar.

Symbol of faith

I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, visible to all and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, who was born of the Father before all ages; Light from Light, true God from true God, born, uncreated, consubstantial with the Father, to Whom all things were. For our sake, man and our salvation came down from heaven, and became incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and became human. She was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried. And he rose again on the third day, according to the Scriptures. And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father. And again He will come with glory, to judge the living and the dead, His Kingdom will have no end. And in the Holy Spirit, the life-giving Lord, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who spoke the prophets. Into One Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. I confess one baptism for the remission of sins. I hope for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the next century. Amen.

And read the akathist...

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The ending is common to all canons and akathists.

It is worthy to eat as one truly blesses Thee, the Mother of God, ever-blessed and most immaculate and the Mother of our God. The most honorable Cherub and the most glorious without comparison Seraphim, who gave birth to God the Word without corruption, we magnify Thee as the real Mother of God ( bow).

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Lord have mercy ( three times).

Through the prayers of the saints, our fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Troparion of the holiday, tone 4

Thy Nativity, Christ our God, arises the world's light of reason: in it, for the stars who serve as stars learn to bow to Thee, the Sun of truth, and to lead Thee from the heights of the East. Lord, glory to You!

Kontakion, tone 3

The Virgin today gives birth to the Most Essential, and the earth brings a den to the Unapproachable; Angels and shepherds praise, while wolves travel with a star; For our sake, the Young Child, the Eternal God, was born.

Greatness

We magnify You, life-giver Christ, for our sake now born in the flesh from the unknown and most pure Virgin Mary.