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Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Μεγάλη Παρασκευή Πρωί: «Ἀληθῶς Θεοῦ υἱὸς ἦν οὗτος» ( ἐπίσκοπος Αυγουστίνου Καντιώτη )


Μεγάλη Παρασκευὴ εἶνε σήμερα, ἀγαπητοί μου συναμαρτωλοὶ ἀδελφοί, ἡμέρα ἱερὰ γεμάτη ἀναμνήσεις, ἡμέρα ποὺ προκαλεῖ ῥίγη συγκινήσεως καὶ δάκρυα. Ἂς βγάλουμε τὴν ὥρα αὐτὴ ἀπὸ τὴν καρδιὰ καὶ τὸ μυαλό μας κάθε ἰδέα γήινη, κάθε ῥυπαρὴ σκέψι καὶ λογισμό, ἂς καθαρίσουμε τὴ διάνοιά μας, καὶ μὲ τὰ φτερὰ τῆς φαντασίας ἂς διασχίσουμε τὶς ἀποστάσεις καὶ τοὺς αἰῶνες, κι ἂς ἐπισκεφθοῦμε νοερὰ τοὺς Ἁγίους Τόπους.
Μπορεῖ κανεὶς νὰ πάῃ ἐκεῖ κι ὅμως νὰ μὴν εἶνε ἐκεῖ, καὶ μπορεῖ νὰ μὴν πάῃ σωματικὰ στοὺς Ἁγίους Τόπους κι ὅμως νά ᾽νε ἐκεῖ ψυχικά.Ἂς βρεθοῦμε λοιπὸν τώρα μὲ τὴ σκέψι μας στὸ μέρος ἐκεῖνο ποὺ λέγεται Κρανίου τόπος ἢ Γολγοθᾶς· ἐκεῖ ποὺ παίχθηκε τὸ δρᾶμα τῶν δραμάτων, ἐκεῖ ποὺ δόθηκε ἡ μεγάλη μάχη μεταξὺ φωτὸς καὶ σκότους, ἀληθείας καὶ ψεύδους. Ἐκεῖ, στὸ Γολγοθᾶ, εἶνε τώρα ὁ ἐσταυρωμένος Λυτρωτὴς τοῦ κόσμου.
Θεαταὶ τῆς θυσίας του εἶνε πολλοί. Ἀπ᾽ τὸν οὐρανὸ τὰ τάγματα τῶν ἁγίων ἀγγέλων καὶ ἀρχαγγέλων, τὰ Χερουβὶμ καὶ Σεραφίμ, ποὺ ἀπὸ τὰ θεωρεῖα τῆς αἰωνιότητος βλέπουν τὸ δρᾶμα, ἀγανακτοῦν κ᾽ εἶνε ἕτοιμοι μὲ τὶς πύρινες ῥομφαῖες τους νὰ σαρώσουν τοὺς δημίους.Θεαταὶ ἀπ᾽ τὴ γῆ εἶνε ὁ ὄχλος ἐκεῖνος, ποὺ πρὶν τέσσερις μέρες, τὴν Κυριακὴ τῶν Βαΐων, ἐκραύγαζε «Ὡσαννά» (Ματθ. 21,9. Μᾶρκ. 11,9-10. Ἰω. 12,13) καὶ τώρα εἶνε κάτω ἀπ᾽ τὸ σταυρὸ γιὰ νὰ ἐμπαίξῃ.Θεαταὶ εἶνε ἀκόμα οἱ εἰδωλολάτρες στρατιῶτες , τὸ ἀπόσπασμα ποὺ μὲ ἐπὶκεφαλῆς τὸν ἑκατόνταρχο (λοχαγό) ἔλαβε ἐντολὴ ν᾽ ἀνεβῇ στὸν Κρανίου τόπον καὶ νὰ ἐκτελέσῃ τὴν ἀπόφασι τοῦ Ἰουδαϊκοῦ δικαστηρίου. Οἱ ἀγροῖκοι αὐτοὶ ῾Ρωμαῖοι, ποὺ ἔχουν λάβει μέρος σὲ μάχες καὶ συνήθισαν νὰ βλέπουν τὸ ἀνθρώπινο αἷμα νὰ χύνεται, εἶνε ἀδιάφοροι· ἢ μᾶλλον ὄχι ἀδιάφοροι, ἀλλὰ συνεχίζουν τὸν ἐμπαιγμὸ ποὺ ἔκαναν μέσα στὸ πραιτώριο τοῦ Πιλάτου.
Παρακολουθοῦν τὴν ἐκτέλεσι, παίζουν ζάρια κάτω ἀπ᾽ τὸ σταυρό, καὶ πίνουν ποτά…Ἀλλὰ ξαφνικὰ ὁ μεσαῖος ἀπὸ τοὺς τρεῖς ἐσταυρωμένους, ὁ Ἰησοῦς ὁ Ναζωραῖος, ἑλκύειτὴν προσοχή τους. Βλέπουν ὅτι διαφέρει ἀπὸ τοὺς ἄλλους. Ἐκεῖνοι βλαστημοῦν, καταριῶνται τὴ μέρα ποὺ γεννήθηκαν, ἐκσφενδονίζουν ὕβρεις σὲ ὅλους, ἐνῷ ὁ Ἐσταυρωμένος αὐτὸς σιωπᾷ . Ἡ σιωπή του εἶνε μυστηριώδης, σιωπὴ ποὺ προκαλεῖ συγκίνησι. Σιωπᾷ ὁ Χριστός.Κι ὅταν ἀνοίγει τὰ ἄχραντα χείλη του γιὰ νὰ πῇ τοὺς ἑπτὰ λόγους τοῦ σταυροῦ , τὰ λόγια του αὐτὰ δὲν εἶνε κατάρες, εἶνε εὐλογίες, λόγια ποὺ προκαλοῦν βαθειὰ ἐντύπωσι σὲκάθε ἀκροατὴ καὶ θεατή. Αὐτὰ τὰ λόγια τὰ πρόσεξαν οἱ σταυρωταὶ τοῦ Χριστοῦ μας. Οἱ στρατιῶτες τοῦ ἀποσπάσματος ἄκουσαν τὸ «Πάτερ, ἄφες αὐτοῖς· οὐ γὰρ οἴδασι τί ποιοῦσι» (Λουκ. 23,34) , ἄκουσαν τὸ «Διψῶ» (Ἰω. 19,28) , ἄκουσαν τὸ «Ἠλὶ Ἠλί, λιμᾶ σαβαχθανί;» «Θεέ μου Θεέ μου, ἱνα τί με ἐγκατέλιπες;» (Ματθ. 27,46. Μᾶρκ. 15,34) , ἄκουσαν καὶ τὸ «Τετέλεσται» (Ἰω. 19,30).
Ὅλα αὐτὰ τὰ ἄκουσαν καὶ διαλογίζονταν· Ποιός νά ᾽νε αὐτὸς ἆραγε; αὐτὸς διαφέρει τελείως ἀπὸ τοὺς ἄλλους καταδίκους… Κι ὅταν μετὰ τὸ μεσημέρι εἶδαν τὸν ἥλιο νὰ σκοτεινιάζῃ, τὸ σκοτάδι ν᾽ ἁπλώνεται σ᾽ ὅλη τὴν κτίσι, τὴ γῆ νὰ σείεται καὶ τὰ μνήματα ν᾿ ἀνοίγουν, τότε πλέον πίστεψαν.
Δὲν τοὺς ἔμεινε κανένας δισταγμὸς ἢ ἀμφιβολία, καὶ μαζὶ μὲ τὸν ἑκατόνταρχο εἶπαν κατατρομαγμένοι· «Ἀληθῶς Θεοῦ υἱὸς ἦν οὗτος» (Ματθ. 27,54)· αὐτὸς πραγματικὰ δὲν εἶνε τυχαῖος, ἔχει ὑπερφυσικὴ προέλευσι, εἶνε Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ, Θεὸς ἀληθινός.
Ἀπὸ τότε ποὺ εἶπε τὰ λόγια αὐτὰ ὁ ἑκατόνταρχος ἔχουν περάσει –μετρῆστε–εἴκοσι περίπου αἰῶνες. Καὶ ἡ μαρτυρία - ὁμολογία αὐτὴ δὲν ἔμεινε μόνη· ἐπαναλαμβάνεται καὶ συνεχίζεται μέχρι σήμερα. Πολλές, ἀναρίθμητες μαρτυρίες λένε, ὅτι ὄντως ὁ Χριστὸς εἶνε Θεός, Θεάνθρωπος . Ἔχουμε ἀποδείξεις; Ἔχουμε. Ποιές εἶν᾽ αὐτές; Ἀναφέρω μερικές·
⃝«Ἀληθῶς Θεοῦ υἱὸς ἦν οὗτος». Τὸ φωνάζειπρῶτα - πρῶτα ἡ διδασκαλία του. Ἀνοῖξτε τὰκείμενα ὅλων τῶν θρησκειῶν, διαβάστε τὰ βιβλία τῶν φιλοσόφων, ἀκοῦστε τοὺς λόγους τῶν μεγαλυτέρων ῥητόρων· θὰ δῆτε, ὅτι ἡ διδασκαλία τοῦ Χριστοῦ ὑπερτερεῖ, εἶνε ὑπέροχη. Δὲν ἀρνοῦμαι, ὅτι κι ἄλλοι εἶπαν σπουδαῖα πράγματα· ἀλλὰ τὰ λόγια τους μοιάζουν μὲ μικρὰ ψήγματα χρυσοῦ ἀνακατεμένα μέσα σ᾽ ἕνα ὄγκο εὐτελῶν μετάλλων· μοιάζουν μὲ μικρὰ φῶτα, πυγολαμπίδες θὰ ἔλεγα, μπροστὰ στὸν ἥλιο. Τὰ λόγια τοῦ Χριστοῦ εἶνε φῶς καὶ ζωή, κ᾽ ἔκαναν πάντα μεγάλη ἐντύπωσι.
Ἐχθρικοὶ ἀκροαταί του ἀναγκάστηκαν νὰ ὁμολογήσουν· «Οὐδέποτε οὕτως ἐλάλησεν ἄνθρωπος,ὡς οὗτος ὁ ἄνθρωπος» (Ἰω. 7,46) . Ἂς προάγεται τὸ ἀνθρώπινο πνεῦμα, ὅπως εἶπε κάποιος, ἂςπροχωροῦν οἱ ἐπιστῆμες, ἂς γίνωνται ἀνακαλύψεις· ποτέ ἡ ἀνθρωπότης δὲν θὰ φθάσῃ τὸ ὕψος τῆς διδασκαλίας τοῦ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ. Καὶ κάποιος ἄλλος εἶπε· Δὲν ξέρω ἂν σὲ ἄλλους πλανῆτες κατοικοῦν λογικὰ ὄντα· ἀλλὰ καὶ ἂν ὑποθέσουμε ὅτι ὑπάρχουν καὶ κατοικοῦν ἐκεῖ, δὲν μπορεῖ νὰ ἔχουν θρησκεία ἀνώτερη ἀπὸαὐτὴν ποὺ κήρυξε ὁ Χριστός.
⃝ «Ἀληθῶς Θεοῦ υἱὸς ἦν οὗτος» · τὸ φωνάζειἡ διδασκαλία του, τὸ φωνάζουν καὶ τὰ θαύματά του. Τὰ θαύματα τοῦ Χριστοῦ! Ὅπου ἅ-πλωνε τὰ ἄχραντα χέρια του, ὅπου ἀκουγό-ταν ἡ θεϊκὴ προσταγή του, ἐκεῖ ὁ ἄνεμος σταματοῦσε, ἡ τρικυμισμένη θάλασσα γαλήνευε,τὰ δαιμόνια ἔφευγαν, τυφλοὶ ἔβλεπαν, κουφοὶ ἄκουγαν, μουγγοὶ μιλοῦσαν, λεπροὶ καθαρίζονταν, παράλυτοι σηκώνονταν, κι αὐτοὶ ἀκόμα οἱ νεκροὶ ἀνασταίνονταν ἀπὸ τοὺς τάφους. Θαύματα πραγματικά, ὄχι φανταστικά.Θαύματα ποὺ ἔγιναν ὄχι νύχτα καὶ σὲ κάποια ἀθέατη γωνιά, ἀλλὰ μπροστὰ σὲ πλῆθος μάτια, μερικὲς φορὲς καὶ ἐχθρῶν, ποὺ τὰ ἔβλεπαν καὶ κατάπληκτοι ἔλεγαν· «Οὐδέποτε οὕτως εἴδομεν»(Μᾶρκ. 2,12) . Τὰ θαύματα τοῦ Χριστοῦ εἶνε ἀνα-ρίθμητα. Κι ἂν ἡ θάλασσα γίνῃ μελάνι κι ὁ οὐ-ρανὸς χαρτὶ καὶ τὰ δέντρα μολύβια, δὲν φτά-νουν γιὰ νὰ ἱστορηθοῦν τὰ θαύματα ποὺ ἔκανε, κάνει καὶ θὰ κάνῃ μέχρι συντελείας τῶν αἰώνων ὁ Κύριος ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦς Χριστός.
⃝ «Ἀληθῶς Θεοῦ υἱὸς ἦν οὗτος» . Τὸ φωνάζειἀκόμα ὁ ἄψογος βίος του. Ὁ Χριστὸς εἶνε ἅγιος, ὄχι μὲ ἔννοια σχετικὴ ὅπως πολλοὶ ἄνθρωποι, ἀλλὰ μὲ ἔννοια ἀπόλυτη. Εἶνε ἐκεῖνος στὸν ὁποῖο δὲν ὑπάρχει καμμία κακία ἢ ἐλάττωμα, δὲν «εὑρέθη δόλος ἐν τῷ στόματι αὐτοῦ» (Ἠσ. 53,9 = Α΄ Πέτρ. 2,22) , ἐκεῖνος ποὺ ἡ ζωή του λάμπειἀπὸ κάθε πλευρά, ἐκεῖνος ποὺ ἡ ἀρετή του «ἐκάλυψεν οὐρανούς» (Ἀμβ. 3,3) . Ποιά ἀρετὴ τοῦ Χριστοῦ ν᾽ ἀναφέρουμε πρώτη; τὴ φτώχεια καὶ ἁπλότητά του, ποὺ κανείς ἄλλος δὲν ἔζησετόσο ταπεινὰ ὥστε νὰ μὴν ἔχῃ «ποῦ τὴν κεφαλὴν κλίνῃ» (Ματθ. 8,20); τὴν πραότητα καὶ ἀνεξικακία του ἀπέναντι στοὺς ἐχθροὺς καὶ σταυρωτάς του; τὸ θάρρος καὶ τὴν ἀφοβία του ἐνώπιον τῶν ἀρχόντων καὶ τοῦ Πιλάτου ὅταν διεκήρυττε τὴν ἀλήθεια; τὴν ταπείνωσί του, μέχρι ση-μείου νὰ σκύψῃ νὰ πλύνῃ τὰ πόδια τῶν μαθητῶν του; ἢ πρὸ παντὸς τὴν ἀγάπη του πρὸς τὸ Θεὸ καὶ τοὺς ἀνθρώπους ποὺ ὑποφέρουν; Ὅλα αὐτὰ συνθέτουν τὴ μεγαλειώδη εἰκόνα τῆς ζωῆς τοῦ Χριστοῦ μας στὴ γῆ. Μερικοὶ προ-σπάθησαν νὰ τοῦ βροῦν ἐλαττώματα· ἔψαξαντὰ Εὐαγγέλια, πίεσαν τὸν ἐγκέφαλό τους, μὰ δὲν μπόρεσαν νὰ βροῦν ψεγάδι. Ὁ ἥλιος ἔχειτὶς κηλῖδες του, ἀλλὰ ὁ Χριστὸς εἶνε ὁ ἀκηλίδωτος ἥλιος. Εἶνε ἐκεῖνος ποὺ εἶπε «Τίς ἐλέγχει με περὶ ἁμαρτίας;» (Ἰω. 8,46) , καὶ τὸ ἐρώτημά του μένει ἀναπάντητο διὰ μέσου τῶν αἰώνων.
⃝ «Ἀληθῶς Θεοῦ υἱὸς ἦν οὗτος» , τὸ ἀποδεικνύουν ἡ διδασκαλία του, τὰ θαύματά του, ἡ ἁγιότης τοῦ βίου του, τὸ ἀποδεικνύει τέλος ἡ μαρτυρία τῶν αἰώνων. Δὲν τὸ μαρτυρεῖ μόνο ὁ ἑκατόνταρχος· τὸ μαρτυροῦν οἱ γενεὲς γενεῶν τῶν ἁγίων· μικρὰ παιδιὰ σὰν τὸν ἅγιο Κήρυκο ποὺ κρατοῦν στὴν ἀγκαλιὰ οἱ μητέρες, σεμνὲς παρθένες, ἁπλοϊκοὶ ἰδιῶτες ὅπως οἱ ψαρᾶδες, σοφοὶ ἐπιστήμονες· ὅλοι ὁμολογοῦν, ὅτι ὁ Χριστὸς εἶνε Θεὸς ἀληθινός.
Θεαταὶ κ᾽ ἐμεῖς σήμερα, ἀγαπητοί μου, τοῦ πάθους τοῦ Σωτῆρος μας. Πῶς παρακολουθοῦμε τὸ θεῖο δρᾶμα; Ὅπως οἱ ἄγγελοι μὲ ἀγάπη καὶ λατρεία, ἢ ὅπως ὁ ὄχλος ποὺ ξέχασε τὰ «Ὡσαννά» καὶ φώναζε «Σταύρωσον σταύρωσον αὐτόν»; (Ἰω. 19,6) . Ἂς τὸ παρακολουθοῦμε ὅπως ὁ ἑκατόνταρχος, ποὺ ἄφησε τοὺς δισταγμούς, πίστεψε καὶ τὸν ὡμολόγησε Υἱὸ Θεοῦ.Ἂν ὑπάρχῃ κάποιος ποὺ ἔχει κάποια ἀμφιβολία γιὰ τὸ πρόσωπο τοῦ Χριστοῦ, δὲν ἔχειπαρὰ νὰ τὸν πλησιάσῃ, νὰ ἐξετάσῃ, νὰ ἐρευνήσῃ μὲ εἰλικρίνεια . Καὶ τότε σὰν τὸν ἑκατόνταρχο θὰ ὁδηγηθῇ ἀπὸ τὰ πράγματα νὰ ὁμο-λογήσῃ κι αὐτός, ὅτι ὁ Χριστὸς εἶνε «ἀληθῶς Θεοῦ Υἱός» , ὅτι εἶνε τὸ ἕνα ἀπὸ τὰ τρία πρόσωπα τῆς ἁγίας Τριάδος, ὅτι εἶνε ὁ Θεάνθρωπος Λυτρωτής· ὅν, παῖδες Ἑλλήνων, ὑμνεῖτε καὶ ὑπερυψοῦτε εἰς πάντας τοὺς αἰῶνας· ἀμήν.
(†) Eπίσκοπος Αὐγουστῖνος-
Ἀπομαγνητοφωνημένη ὁμιλία, ἡ ὁποία ἔγινε στὸν ἱ. ναὸ Ἁγ. Παντελεήμονος Φλωρίνης τὴν 24-4-1981.


http://agapienxristou.blogspot.ca/2015/04/blog-post_9.html

Το φοβερό μίσος των Εβραίων προς των Ιησού Χριστό, μέσα από τα Τροπάρια της Μεγάλης Πέμπτης (που προσπαθούν να απαγορέψουν)


Παρότι το Κ.Ι.Σ (Κεντρικό Ισραηλιτικό Συμβούλιο) και διάφορες άλλες εβραϊκές οργανώσεις έχουν προσπαθήσει να τα απαγορέψουν (κάτι που πέτυχαν με τα ενοχλητικά για εκείνους Εγκώμια της Μεγάλης Παρασκευής), εντούτοις τα ακόλουθα τροπάρια ψάλλονται σήμερα σε όλες τις Ορθόδοξες Εκκλησίες, υπενθυμίζοντας στους πιστούς το μίσος, τον φθόνο, την κακία και την αχαριστία των Ιουδαίων προς τον Κύριο Ημών Ιησού Χριστό. Επίσης, απαντούν στις «απορίες» ορισμένων «θεολόγων» για το ποιος σταύρωσε τον Κύριο και αποστομώνουν όσους έχουν το θράσος να μιλάνε για «αντισημιτισμό». Προσέξτε τα «κοσμητικά επίθετα» που χρησιμοποιούν οι Άγιοι Υμνογράφοι για τον «εσμό των θεοκτόνων», δηλαδή «τα γένη των Εβραίων».
Αναλυτικά, όπως τα βρήκαμε εδώ:

Ἀντὶ ἀγαθῶν, ὧν ἐποίησας Χριστέ, τῷ γένει τῶν Ἑβραίων σταυρωθῆναί σε κατεδίκασαν, ὄξος καὶ χολήν σε ποτίσαντες. Ἀλλὰ δὸς αὐτοῖς Κύριε κατὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτῶν, ὅτι οὐ συνῆκαν, τὴν σὴν συγκατάβασιν.


Ἐπὶ τῇ προδοσίᾳ οὐκ ἠρκέσθησαν Χριστὲ τὰ γένη τῶν Ἑβραίων, ἀλλ' ἐκίνουν τὰς κεφαλὰς αὐτῶν, μυκτηρισμὸν καὶ χλεύην προσάγοντες. Ἀλλὰ δὸς αὐτοῖς Κύριε, κατὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτῶν, ὅτι κενά, κατὰ σοῦ ἐμελέτησαν.

Οὔτε γῆ ὡς ἐσείσθη, οὔτε πέτραι ὡς ἐρράγησαν, Ἑβραίους ἔπεισαν, οὔτε τοῦ Ναοῦ τὸ καταπέτασμα, οὔτε τῶν νεκρῶν ἡ ἀνάστασις. Ἀλλὰ δὸς αὐτοῖς Κύριε, κατὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτῶν, ὅτι κενά, κατὰ σοῦ ἐμελέτησαν.

Τάδε λέγει Κύριος τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις· Λαός μου τί ἐποίησά σοι, ἢ τί σοι παρηνώχλησα; τοὺς τυφλούς σου ἐφώτισα, τοὺς λεπρούς σου ἐκαθάρισα, ἄνδρα ὄντα ἐπὶ κλίνης ἠνωρθωσάμην. Λαός μου, τί ἐποίησά σοι, καὶ τί μοι ἀνταπέδωκας; ἀντὶ τοῦ μάννα χολήν, ἀντὶ τοῦ ὕδατος ὄξος, ἀντὶ τοῦ ἀγαπᾶν με, σταυρῷ με προσηλώσατε· οὐκέτι στέγω λοιπόν, καλέσω μου τὰ ἔθνη, κᾀκεῖνα με δοξάσουσι, σὺν τῷ Πατρὶ καὶ τῷ Πνεύματι, κᾀγὼ αὐτοῖς δωρήσομαι, ζωὴν τὴν αἰώνιον.

Σήμερον τοῦ Ναοῦ τὸ καταπέτασμα, εἰς ἔλεγχον ῥήγνυται τῶν παρανόμων· καὶ τὰς ἰδίας ἀκτῖνας, ὁ ἥλιος κρύπτει, Δεσπότην ὁρῶν σταυρούμενον.

Τὸ ἄθροισμα τῶν Ἰουδαίων, τῷ Πιλάτῳ ᾐτήσαντο, σταυρωθῆναί σε Κύριε· αἰτίαν γὰρ ἐν σοὶ μὴ εὐρόντες, τὸν ὑπεύθυνον Βαραββᾶν ἠλευθέρωσαν, καὶ σὲ τὸν Δίκαιον κατεδίκασαν, μιαιφονίας ἔγκλημα κληρωσάμενοι. Ἀλλὰ δὸς αὐτοῖς Κύριε, τὸ ἀνταπόδομα αὐτῶν, ὅτι κενά, κατὰ σοῦ ἐμελέτησαν.

Μὴ ὡς Ἰουδαῖοι ἑορτάσωμεν· καὶ γὰρ τὸ Πάσχα ἡμῶν, ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν ἐτύθη Χριστὸς ὁ Θεός, ἀλλ' ἐκκαθάρωμεν ἑαυτοὺς ἀπὸ παντὸς μολυσμοῦ, καὶ εἰλικρινῶς δεηθῶμεν αὐτῷ. Ἀνάστα Κύριε, σῶσον ἡμᾶς ὡς φιλάνθρωπος.

Τῶν θεοκτόνων ὁ ἑσμός, Ἰουδαίων ἔθνος τὸ ἄνομον, πρὸς Πιλᾶτον ἐμμανῶς, ἀνακράζων ἔλεγε· Σταύρωσον, Χριστὸν τὸν ἀνεύθυνον. Βαραββᾶν δὲ μᾶλλον οὗτοι ᾐτήσαντο. Ἡμεῖς δὲ φθεγγόμεθα, Λῃστοῦ τοῦ εὐγνώμονος, τὴν φωνὴν πρὸς αὐτόν. Μνήσθητι καὶ ἡμῶν Σωτήρ, ἐν τῇ Βασιλείᾳ σου.

Ὀλέθριος σπεῖρα θεοστυγῶν, πονηρευομένων, θεοκτόνων συναγωγή, ἐπέστη Χριστέ σοι, καὶ ὡς ἄδικον εἷλκε, τὸν Κτίστην τῶν ἁπάντων, ὃν μεγαλύνομεν.

Νόμον ἀγνοοῦντες οἱ ἀσεβεῖς, φωνὰς Προφητῶν τε, μελετῶντες διακενῆς, ὡς πρόβατον εἷλκον, σὲ τὸν πάντων Δεσπότην, ἀδίκως σφαγιάσαι· ὃν μεγαλύνομεν.

Τοῖς ἔθνεσιν ἔκδοτον τὴν ζωήν, σὺν τοῖς Γραμματεύσιν, ἀναιρεῖσθαι οἱ Ἱερεῖς, παρέσχον, πληγέντες, αὐτοφθόνῳ κακίᾳ τὸν φύσει Ζωοδότην, ὃν μεγαλύνομεν.

Ἐκύκλωσαν κύνες ὡσεὶ πολλοί, ἐκρότησαν, Ἄναξ, σιαγόνα σὴν ῥαπισμῷ, ἠρώτων σε, σοῦ δέ, ψευδῆ κατεμαρτύρουν, καὶ πάντα ὑπομείνας, ἅπαντας ἔσωσας.

Δύο καὶ πονηρὰ ἐποίησεν, ὁ πρωτότοκος υἱός μου Ἰσραήλ, ἐμὲ ἐγκατέλιπε, πηγὴν ὕδατος ζωῆς, καὶ ὤρυξεν ἑαυτῷ φρέαρ συντετριμμένον, ἐμὲ ἐπὶ ξύλου ἐσταύρωσε, τὸν δὲ Βαραββᾶν ᾐτήσατο, καὶ ἀπέλυσεν· ἐξέστη ὁ οὐρανὸς ἐπὶ τούτῳ, καὶ ὁ ἥλιος τὰς ἀκτῖνας ἀπέκρυψε· σὺ δὲ Ἰσραὴλ οὐκ ἐνετράπης, ἀλλὰ θανάτῳ με παρέδωκας. Ἄφες αὐτοῖς Πάτερ ἅγιε· οὐ γὰρ οἴδασι τί ἐποίησαν.

Λαὸς δυσσεβὴς καὶ παράνομος, ἵνα τί μελετᾷ κενὰ; ἵνα τί τὴν ζωὴν τῶν ἁπάντων, θανάτῳ κατεδίκασε; Μέγα θαῦμα! ὅτι ὁ Κτίστης τοῦ Κόσμου, εἰς χεῖρας ἀνόμων παραδίδοται, καὶ ἐπὶ ξύλου ἀνυψοῦται ὁ φιλάνθρωπος, ἵνα τοὺς ἐν ᾍδῃ δεσμώτας ἐλευθερώσῃ, κράζοντας· Μακρόθυμε Κύριε δόξα σοι.


http://agapienxristou.blogspot.ca/2015/04/blog-post_8.html

Monday, April 25, 2016

ΟΜΙΛΙΑ ΕΙΣ ΤΗΝ ΓΥΝΑΙΚΑ ΤΗΝ ΑΜΑΡΤΩΛΟΝ, ΤΗΝ ΑΛΕΙΨΑΣΑΝ ΤΟΝ ΚΥΡΙΟΝ ΜΥΡΩ ΚΑΙ ΕΙΣ ΦΑΡΙΣΑΙΟΝ




Ἅγ. Ἀμφιλόχιος ἐπίσκοπος Ἰκονίου

Α’ Πολύ ωφέλησε την ψυχή μας ο Χριστός, σαν παρακάθησε στο τραπέζι του Ζακχαίου. Γιατί όπου ο Χριστός φιλοξενείται, και κάμνει συντροφιά με τους ανθρώπους, και το πιοτό και το τραπέζι μας καταδέχεται, εκεί κατοικεί η ευφροσύνη. Γιατί ποιος τελώνης ή πόρνη ή απ’ εκείνους που έπραξαν όσα δε λέγονται κακά, βλέποντας τον Ποιητήν του ουρανού και της γης να εισέρχεται στο σπίτι του Τελώνη, ή εκείνον που μας δίδει τα στάχυα, να λαβαίνει με τα χέρια του ανθρώπινο ψωμί, ή των τσαμπιών τον χορηγό να πίνει απ’ το κρασί και να ευλογεί τα πατητήρια, και στο μυαλό του δε θάβαζε την πράξη τούτη για μεγάλη γιορτή και λαμπρό πανηγύρι; Αληθινά γιορτή. Ευφροσύνη αγγελικής φιλοξενίας, να βλέπεις το Δεσπότη με τους δούλους· το Θεό με τους ανθρώπους· τον Κριτήν τέλος να βλέπεις μ’ εκείνους που θα κρίνει, να κάθεται το ίδιο τραπέζι. Μα για τούτον το λόγο ήρθε στη γη, χωρίς να εγκαταλείψει τον ουρανό ορφανό από τη θεϊκή δόξα· γιατί και τέλειος γενόμενος άνθρωπος, δεν έπαυσε να είναι Θεός.
Και ήρθε επί της γης και πέρασε θάλασσες για να βγάλει τους χειμαζομένους στο πέλαγος των βιοτικών φροντίδων από το βυθό της αμαρτίας, και σε πόλεις και κώμες περιόδευσε και περπάτησε στα στενά τα μονοπάτια και στ’ απόκρημνα πατήματα, και σε γκρεμνούς στάθηκε κι αναζήτησε τους πλανεμένους για να τους επαναφέρει στην ποίμνη των, σαν ακυβέρνητα πρόβατα. Γιατί Αυτός είναι εκείνος που αναζητεί το «απολωλός πρόβατον», εκείνος που εγκαταλείπει τα ενενήντα εννέα πρόβατα και πάσχει για το ένα. Κι επειδή ζητούσε το ένα, δε σημαίνει πως καταφρονούσε τα επίλοιπα, μα κι ούτε πάλιν θυσίαζε για τα πολλά το ένα· γιατί άφηνε τα ενενήντα εννέα στη μάντρα ασφαλισμένα και σίγουρα, και τότε έτρεχε για το ένα να το σώσει απ’ την πλεκτάνη του διαβόλου. Πρόβατο χωρίς ποιμένα είναι έτοιμο δείπνο στα θηρία, και ψυχή ασφράγιστη από αρετή και χωρίς ταπείνωση και φόβον Θεού είναι στα χέρια του διαβόλου. Όθεν και τον Ζακχαίον άρπαξε σαν πρόβατο από το στόμα του λύκου και στη λογικήν αυλήν των προβάτων επανέφερε και με θεία χαρίσματα και αρετήν τον εκόσμησε. Και όπως ο ποιμήν που επιθυμεί να ξαναβρή το πλανεμένο αρνί, αφήνει φρόνιμο και πιστό του ζώο ελεύθερο να βόσκει, μη τυχόν το απαντήσει και συντροφιαστά επιστρέψουνε στη μάντρα, έτσι και ο Λόγος του Θεού τη σάρκα που δανείστηκε από την Παρθένον, σαν πρόβατο σε βοσκοτόπι, άφησε στο τραπέζι του Ζακχαίου, όπως, ένεκεν της φιλοξενίας και της συντροφιάς, τον τραβήξει προς την ποίμνην.

Β’ Αλλά τούτο δεν το καταλάβαιναν οι Φαρισαίοι και σχολίαζαν με τις απαίσιές τους γλώσσες και διέβαλλαν το Χριστό που τον έβλεπαν να τρώγει με τους τελώνες. Μα σαν τα ασκιά τα παληά ανοίξανε γιατί δεν μπορούσαν να δεχτούν τον καινούριο δυνατό λόγο της διδασκαλίας. Εμείς όμως, αδελφοί, ας ακολουθήσουμε το μέγα φιλάνθρωπο στην πορείαν του. Εκείνος λοιπόν που τον Ζακχαίον τον τελώνην έφερε στο δρόμο τον καλό και στη λογική μάντρα των Αποστόλων συγκατέλεξε, εκείνος είναι που και την πόρνην την αμαρτωλήν, την εργάτιδα τόσων κακών, ετράβηξε από το φαράγγι του διαβόλου και στην ασφαλισμένη μάντρα την απέδωσε.
Για να γνωρίσετε όμως τη φιλανθρωπία του Χριστού κι από την άλλην των Φαρισαίων την παραφροσύνην και για να μάθετε της αμαρτωλής την επιστροφή, παραθέτω τούτες τις ευαγγελικές ρήσεις, και αν ακούσετε καλά και προσέξετε το ύφος, εύκολα πολύ θα βγάλετε και το νόημά τους. Ηρώτησε, λέγει, τις των Φαρισαίων τον Ιησούν, ίνα φάγη μετ’ αυτού. Και εισελθών εις τον οίκον του Φαρισαίου ανεκλίθη. Ω ανείπωτη χάρις! Ω πρωτάκουστη φιλανθρωπία που δε γνωρίζεις όρια! Και με Φαρισαίους παρακάθεται χωρίς ν’ αποδιώχνει τους τελώνες· και τις πόρνες ελεεί και με τη Σαμαρείτιδα διαλέγεται· και στη Χαναναίαν απαντά και στην αιμορροούσα το κράσπεδον του ιματίου του παραχωρεί και δεν ντρέπεται. Είναι γιατρός για όλα τα πάθη και τα θεραπεύει για να ωφελήσει όλους, τους πονηρούς και τους αγαθούς, τους αχάριστους και τους ευγνώμονες. Έτσι λοιπόν και τώρα που τον προσκαλεί ο Φαρισαίος, δέχεται, και εισέρχεται στην οικίαν του, πλην οικίαν γιομάτη με αμαρτίες. Γιατί όπου Φαρισαίος εκεί είναι η πονηρία, ο τόπος της αμαρτίας, της υπερηφανίας το «καλωσόρισες». Και σε τέτοιο σπίτι ο Κύριος δεν αρνιέται να υπάγει. Και φυσικά, γιατί ως ο ήλιος δε χάνει τη λάμψη του ακόμα και στο βόρβορο σα ρίχνει τις ακτίνες του αλλά τουναντίον τον καθαρίζει, έτσι και ο Χριστός κάθε τόπον αισχύνης και βέβηλον διαλέγει και τη βρωμερήν αμαρτία με τις ακτίνες του διαλύει, κι άσπιλος μένει πάντα ο λόγος της θεότητος.

Γ’ Έτσι ευθύς επήγε στον Φαρισαίον· ήρεμος, σιωπηλός, χωρίς να ελέγξει τη ζωή του. Πρώτα για να αγιάσει τους καλεσμένους, εκείνον που τον κάλεσε, την οικίαν και της πολιτείας τα βρώματα· έπειτα για να δείξει πως δεν ήταν φάσμα η ενανθρώπησή του μα κάτι πραγματικό, πως γίνηκε δηλαδή τέλειος άνθρωπος, κάθισε στο τραπέζι γιατί εκεί έμελλε να έρθει η πόρνη και να δείξει το θερμόν και φωτεινόν τρόπο της μετανοίας. Γι’ αυτό σαν τον κάλεσε ο Φαρισαίος, ευθύς συγκατανεύει για να διδάξη παρουσία των Γραμματέων και Φαρισαίων. Όταν η πόρνη θα ομολογεί τα σφάλματά της, πώς πρέπει να ζητούν συγχώρεση οι αμαρτωλοί από το Θεό και να δέχονται τη χάρη του. Ιδού γαρ, λέγει, γυνή εν τη πόλει, ήτις ην αμαρτωλός. Γυναίκα· η ανερμάτιστη φύση, το πρώτο δίχτυ του διαβόλου, η εισαγωγή της πλάνης, η διδασκάλισσα της παραβάσεως και της ανομίας. Αυτή που γίνηκε για βοήθεια του αντρός, μα πολύ γρήγορα εξελίχθηκε σε εχθρόν του, που δημιουργήθηκε και είναι εκ φύσεως καλή, μα που με την ίδια της τη βούληση γίνηκε κακή· αυτή που έδειξε την ωραιότητα του ξύλου και τον παράδεισον έχασε. Και ιδού γυνή, εν τη πόλει, ήτις ην αμαρτωλός, και της Εύας έφερνε τις αμαρτίες και κατάμεστη ήταν από τις δικές της. Και θα ειπώ πρώτα για την προηγούμενή της συμπεριφορά και πώς σκορπούσε σπάταλα τους τρόπους της, για να αντιληφθήτε καλλίτερα την πολυτέλεια της μετανοίας.

Δ’ Ο Θεός έλαβεν οστούν από την πλευράν του Αδάμ, του προσέθηκε σάρκα και έτσι έκαμε την Εύα, που και γι’ αυτό γυναίκα την κάλεσε, και την έδωσε στον Αδάμ για σύντροφό του. Αλλά μετά που αμάρτησαν και παρέβηκαν τον νόμο και διωχθήκανε από τον Παράδεισον, σαν τιμωρία τους ήρθε και ο θάνατος. Μα για να μη χαθεί ολότελα το ανθρώπινο γένος με τη φθορά του θανάτου, έρχεται ο γάμος ν’ αναχαιτίσει το θάνατο. Για να σπέρνει ο ένας κι ο άλλος να θερίζει· ο ένας να κόβει κι ο άλλος να βλασταίνει. Κι ότι μετά την εισέλαση του θανάτου δόθηκε η χάρη του γάμου, καταφάνερο είναι από το ότι ο Αδάμ μετά την έξοδο από τον Παράδεισο βρέθηκε με την Εύα. Κι έχει γραφτεί ότι σαν βγήκανε από τον Παράδεισο, τότε εγνώρισε ο Αδάμ τη γυναίκα του· προ της αμαρτίας λοιπόν ήταν η παρθενία, που διατηρούσε αμόλυντο και καθαρό το χιτώνα της φύσεως. Μετά λοιπόν από την ανομία, ύστερα από την τιμωρία του θανάτου εισέλασε ο γάμος για να εξασθενήσει το θάνατο με την άνθησή του και να τον νικήσει με την αρχοντική του βλάστηση. Και για να μη χαθή το ανθρώπινο γένος αλλά τουναντίον να πληθυνθεί ψηφίστηκε ο νόμος του γάμου. Και στον άνδρα χάρισε την ηδονή και στη γυναίκα τη θωπεία και την ωραιότητα, ωραιότητα πρόσκαιρη, όχι για να ερεθίζωνται ανάμεσά τους και να ωθούνται σε άνομες μίξεις, αλλά για να ενώνονται έννομα με το θεσμό του γάμου. Όθεν η μίξις ύστερα από νόμιμον γάμον είναι τίμια και ευλογημένη από το Θεό. Αλλά εκείνη που γίνεται για να κερδίσει η σάρκα την ηδονή, έχει μέσα της το θάνατο. Τίμιος γαρ ο γάμος εν πάσι, και η κοίτη αμίαντος· πόρνους δε και μοιχούς κρινεί ο Θεός. Όσες λοιπόν νόμιμα γνώρισαν τους άνδρες για να κάμουν παιδιά, είναι αψεγάδιαστες· όπως η Σάρρα, και η Ραβέκκα, και η Ραχήλ. Και οποιαδήποτε άλλη. Εκείνες όμως που διεγείρουν τους νέους, και τους σπρώχνουν στην ακολασία για να χαρούν την άνομη ηδονή, αυτές είναι καταδικασμένες για τη φθορά, γιατί τον ναόν του Θεού καταστρέφουν. Ει τις γαρ, λέγει, φθείρει τον ναόν του Θεού, φθερεί τούτον ο Θεός. Και από τούτες ήτανε η αμαρτωλή που λέγουμε. Κι αφού τόσον αισχρά εκμεταλλεύτηκε τη φύση, με το να χρωματίζει με φτηνή βαφή το πρόσωπό της, και με επιδεξιότητα να προσπαθεί πώς να φανεί ελκυστική, έσερνε τυφλά τους νέους στην ακολασία και τους έσπρωχνε στο βάραθρο της πορνείας.

Ε’ Και δεν τα λέγω αυτά, για να περιγελάσω εκείνα που έκαμε· αλλά τουναντίον για να την επαινέσω, με το να ξέρετε από πού ξεκίνησε και πού έφτασε. Και λέγω ποια ήτανε πρώτα, για να σας δείξω τι γίνηκε τώρα. Και όλα τα αμαρτήματά της καταλεπτώς τα ιστορώ, για να δείξω τα κατορθώματα της μετανοίας. Αλλά αυτή, που δε μεταχειρίστηκε ως έπρεπε το σώμα της· μα άλλους σαγήνευε με τις πλεξούδες των μαλλιών της, άλλους εμάγευε με τα δάκρυά της κι άλλους με τη θρασύτητά της και όλους από παντού τους ωδηγούσε στο βάραθρο της ακολασίας, αυτή τώρα τον αισχρό και σαρκικόν έρωτά της αλλάζει σε θεία και ουράνια στοργή.
Σαν είδε τον Ιησού άλλοτε να μιλά με τη Σαμαρείτιδα κι άλλοτε να σιμώνει τη Χαναναία, κι άλλη φορά να διαπιστώνει την κλοπή της αιμορροούσης, και πότε να τρώγει με τους τελώνες και πότε να επισκέπτεται τους Φαρισαίους, σκέφτηκε. Αφού τις πόρνες και τους αμαρτωλούς και τους τελώνες καταδέχεται, ως πότε θα σπαρταράω σαν ψάρι για την ηδονή και θα βυθίζομαι συνεχώς στα πελάγη της αμαρτίας; Δε θα μείνω για πάντα στον κόσμο, ούτε ωραία θα μείνω, γιατί το καθένα έχει στον καιρό του το θάνατο και όλα μαραίνονται· και τα άνθη και τα κρίνα κι οι ομορφιές του προσώπου. Και τι θα πάθω για τα έργα μου; Αρχίζω τώρα και εννοώ τη φωτιά της κολάσεως και η ψυχή μου μετανοεί, γιατί προσπαθώντας με κάθε μέσο πώς να φανώ ωραιότερη για την καταστροφή των νέων, έβγαινα στους δρόμους της πολιτείας και στην αγορά κι έτρεχα στις μαζώξεις των ανθρώπων κι είχα για δίχτυ μου τα πόδια κι ως δόλωμα τις ωραίες μου κουβέντες.
Ω πόσους νεαρούς κατέστρεψα με τις ματιές μου, τις γιομάτες αναίδεια και πάθος. Κι έκαμνα πολλά φτιασίδια κι αυτό για βλάβη πάλιν εκείνων που με κυτούσαν, και πότε ύψωνα τα μαλλιά μου σε σειρές απανωτές σαν πύργο, και πότε άφηνα από ψηλά πολλές πλεξούδες αφρόντιστα να χαλούν στο μέτωπό μου. Και τα μάγουλά μου έβαφα και τα μάτια μου τα είχα πάντα με μαυράδια. Και πότε με δάκρυα ψεύτικα έκαμνα τους νέους να πέφτουνε μπροστά μου. Ω, τι θα καταντήσω για τούτα, και ποιο γιατρό θα βρω σε όλα τούτα τα πάθη; Αν εξομολογηθώ τις ανομίες μου στους ανθρώπους, ανώφελη θα είναι η εκμυστήρευσή μου· να κρύψω τα αμαρτήματά μου δε μπορώ. Κι από πού να τα κρύψω μιας που το Θεό δε μπορώ να ξεγελάσω; Και πού να πάω που παντού το δικαστή βρίσκω μπροστά μου; που ναι μεν δε φαίνεται μα παντού με ελέγχει; Μια ελπίδα σωτηρίας μου απομένει, μια ευκαιρία για τη ζωή· να βρω τον Ιησού και να τρέξω κοντά του. Αυτός που τους Τελώνες δέχεται δεν απαρνιέται την πόρνη. Αυτός που δειπνεί μαζί με τους Φαρισαίους δε διώχνει τα δάκρυα της αμαρτωλής. Κι επειδή ξέρω πως βρίσκεται στου Σίμωνα του Φαρισαίου, εκεί θα πάω. Μα τι να του ζητήσω σαν πάω; Την υγεία των ματιών μου; Μα είναι πρόσκαιρο το χάρισμα. Ν’ απαλλαγώ από την αρρώστεια; Μικρό το κατόρθωμα, γιατί ο αιώνιος θάνατος είναι πιο μεγάλος από τη σύντομη τούτη ζωή. Απ’ όλα θα παραιτηθώ λοιπόν, τα σωματικά, και την υγεία της ψυχής μου θα ζητήσω. Και μια λύση στα κακά και τις αμαρτίες που σώρεψα είναι να δω το Δικαστή και να προλάβω την κόλαση. Θα μιμηθώ την πόρνη τη Ραάβ, και θα ζηλέψω την ενάρετη ζωή της γυναικός. Και τίποτε άλλο δε ζητεί ο Θεός πλην της μετανοίας.

Ϛ’ Και σα σκέφτηκε τούτα, που είπαμε, με ευσέβεια, και σαν μετάστρεψε τον νου της στην πίστη, έρχεται στον Ιησού με παρρησία να ομολογήση την αναίδειά της. Και δε λέγει τίποτε· δεν τολμούσεν· ήξερε πως εκείνος που εποπτεύει τους λογισμούς δεν έχει ανάγκη από λόγια. Και τι θα του έλεγε αφού όλα τα γνωρίζει! Πως αμάρτησε κι εργάστηκε την ανομία; Πώς ερωτεύονταν κι απολάμβανε τις σαρκικές ηδονές; Αυτά τα ήξερε καλά ο Θεός, όχι γιατί γίνηκαν αλλά γιατί γνωρίζει και τους λογισμούς στα μύχια της καρδιάς μας. Επειδή λοιπόν εγνώριζε πως όλα είναι φανερά στο Θεό και δε μπορεί να τον ξεγελάση, σφάλησε το στόμα της κι άνοιξε τα δάκρυά της να μιλήσει. Στάσα γαρ, λέγει, παρά τους πόδας του Ιησού, κλαίουσα ήρξατο βρέχειν τους πόδας αυτού τοις δάκρυσιν. Και δε μιλούσε με το στόμα της, αλλά με στεναγμούς και με καρδιά συντετριμμένη έλεγε την άβυσσο των αμαρτιών της· τους άσεμνους στοχασμούς, και τις αισχρές μνήμες, τις βέβηλες πράξεις και τις άνομες ομιλίες ομολογούσε. Και δεν υπήρξε τίποτα που να έκαμε και που δεν το πλήρωσε με δάκρυα. Κι ήξερε καλά πως για ότι έλεγε ελάβαινε την συγχώρεση. Είπα γαρ, λέγει, εξαγορεύσω κατ’ εμού την ανομίαν μου, και συ αφήκας την ασέβειαν της καρδίας μου. Και όχι μόνον χωρίς να ομιλεί, ομολογούσε ζητώντας την εξιλέωση του Κυρίου με τους στεναγμούς της καρδιάς της· αλλά εξεπλήρωσε και το ωραίο σχήμα της μετανοίας. Εδάκρυσε γιατί γέλασε πολύ· και με τα καλά δάκρυα λούζει το κακό της γέλιο· με τις σταγόνες των ματιών της ξεπλένει την αμαρτία από τα μάγουλά της· ήγουν με εκείνα που αμάρτησε με τούτα και απολογιέται· με όσα έπραξε τις ανομίες, με αυτά ζητεί να εξιλεώσει το νομοθέτη. Όπως ακριβώς ο Δαβίδ, το στρώμα που μόλυνε με εναγκαλισμούς το ξέπλυνε με τα δάκρυα…….

(Μετάφρ. Θεοδόση Νικολάου, Κυπρίου, "ΚΙΒΩΤΟΣ", ΕΤΟΣ Α', ΜΑΡΤΙΟΣ 1952, ΑΡΙΘΜ. ΦΥΛΛ. 3)


http://agapienxristou.blogspot.ca/2015/04/blog-post_7.html

Friday, April 22, 2016

Τό χτύπημα τῆς πόρτας


Μια σκοτεινή νύχτα, έπιασε μια καταιγίδα κάποιον στον δρόμο.
Χτυπάει την πρώτη πόρτα που συναντά.
- Ανοίξτε μου σας παρακαλώ να γλυτώσω από τούτο το κακό.
- Α, δεν μπορώ, λέει μια αυστηρή φωνή από μέσα, εγώ είμαι η «Δικαιοσύνη». Είσαι άξιος της τιμωρίας αυτής. Δικαίως έρχεται στο κεφάλι σου. Εγώ την έστειλα!
Χτυπάει κι άλλη πόρτα παρακεί…

- Άνοιξε μου, λέει, να προφυλαχτώ.
- Εδώ μένει η «Αλήθεια», λέει μια φωνή από μέσα! Ποτέ δεν σου άρεσε η συντροφιά μου. Πώς με θυμήθηκες τώρα;

Κι ο ταλαίπωρος άνθρωπος προχώρησε απελπισμένος.
Χτυπάει τρίτη πόρτα τώρα.
- Άνοιξε μου σε παρακαλώ. Ποιος κάθεται εδώ;
- Το «Έλεος», απαντά μια πρόθυμη φωνή από μέσα και την ίδια στιγμή η πόρτα ανοίγει. Πέρασε μέσα φίλε μου, του λέει, τόσο καιρό σε περίμενα! Φόρεσε αυτά τα καθαρά, καινούργια ρούχα, για σένα τα έχω, ξεκουράσου τώρα!
ΑΥΤΗ ΕΙΝΑΙ Η ΥΠΟΔΟΧΗ ΤΟΥ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥ ΣΤΟ ΚΑΘΕ ΜΕΤΑΝΟΗΜΕΝΟ ΠΑΙΔΙ ΤΟΥ!!!
Αλήθεια όμως, εμείς έχουμε μετάνοια, ταπείνωση, εξομολογούμαστε τα λάθη μας, πλησιάζουμε την Θεία Κοινωνία, τον ίδιο τον Θεό για να ζητήσουμε συγχώρεση και προστασία και να ξεκουραστούμε κοντά Του, στην στοργική αγκαλιά Του;
ΠΟΘΟΥΜΕ ΝΑ ΜΠΟΥΜΕ ΣΤΗΝ ΕΥΣΠΛΑΧΝΙΚΗ ΚΑΡΔΙΑ ΤΟΥ ΘΕΟΥ, ΝΑ ΓΙΝΟΥΜΕ ΕΝΑ ΜΑΖΙ ΤΟΥ;
Ας ρωτήσουμε τους εαυτούς μας. Εκείνος μας περιμένει…

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Good people do not keep evil in their hearts, but neither do they keep their kindness to themselves. ( St. Paisios )

Good people do not keep evil in their hearts, but neither do they keep their kindness to themselves. For this reason, they do not possess elegant things and are not moved by the world’s beauties. In this, their fervent faith in God as well as their great love is made manifest.

St. Paisios

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Akathist Hymn to the Life-bearing Tomb and Resurrection of Jesus Christ


Kontakion 1

Unto the Lord of Heaven and earth and the Master of all, a hymn of victory do we sing, O Christ Eternal King, for Thou hast risen from the tomb. Being delivered from everlasting corruption, we bring joyous acclamation unto Thine honourable tomb, crying out:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Ikos 1

An archangel came down from Heaven to roll away the stone from before Thy tomb at Thy Resurrection, O Christ God, and to announce Thy rising unto the myrrhbearers, saying: Go ye and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead. Thereupon wondering at the strange word of the angel, they cried unto Thy life-bearing tomb these praises:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb wherein Christ lay as dead and whence He rose on the third day.

Rejoice, for He rose from thee and hath granted us resurrection.

Rejoice, for as a bridegroom from the bridal chamber so did Christ come forth from thee, leading hell captive.

Rejoice, for in His rising the dead of all ages have risen.

Rejoice, by thee Peter the Chief Apostle hath known the Resurrection.

Rejoice, by Christ’s lying within thee all the earth hath been hallowed.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 2

When Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to Thy tomb to anoint Thy body, O Christ God, they found an angel sitting on the stone and he said unto them: Be ye not afraid for I know that ye seek the Crucified; He is not here but is risen as He said unto you. When the women announced the Resurrection unto the disciples, then all did sing as unto the Creator and Master of all, the angels’ hymn: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Their thoughts storming within their minds, Thy disciples, O Christ, knew not the Scriptures that it was fitting for Thee to rise from the dead. They did not believe the myrrhbearers’ joyous announcement of Thy rising. Hence, Peter ran to Thy tomb and, stooping down, beheld the linen garments laid by themselves and the napkin which had been about Thy divine head, and he rightly believed together with the other disciples. Thenceforth rejoicing, he cried such praises unto Thy life-bearing tomb:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, by thee was wrought the salvation of all the world.

Rejoice, for thou art venerated by all creation.

Rejoice, for coming to thee from the North and from the Sea the faithful glorify Christ.

Rejoice, from the West and from the East all magnify the Resurrection within thee.

Rejoice, by thee the assembly of the Jews was put to shame.

Rejoice, for thou wast couch and repose for the King of kings.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 3

The sentries, that vain guard placed about Thy tomb, O Christ God, heard the mighty earthquake and the angel proclaiming the good news of Thy Resurrection unto the myrrhbearers. Quaking with fear they became as dead men. Yet, rushing headlong into the city, they told the high priest and the elders the things that had come to pass. In their great unrighteousness they thought to conceal Thy Resurrection, but were not able and instead taught all to sing: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

The Arimathean who from fear of the Jews had secretly been Thy disciple, O Christ, did beg Thy Divine Body from Pilate. Then, too, did Nicodemus come bearing a mixture of myrrh and aloes and did anoint Thine incorruptible Body. Having wrapped it in a winding sheet with spices, he did lay Thee in a new tomb wherein no other had yet been placed but Thou only, O Lord — that by this means, Thou mightest sanctify the substance of the earth. Thereafter when they had learnt of Thy Resurrection from the dead, they shouted praises unto Thy life-bearing tomb:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, for the mysteries of salvation have been performed within thee.

Rejoice, by thee the Resurrection hath been made known unto all the world.

Rejoice, sure and certain knowledge of the Resurrection.

Rejoice, by coming forth from thee, Christ hath led captivity captive and brought human nature unto God the Father.

Rejoice, although as man He was laid within thee, as God He did rise with glory.

Rejoice, for thou didst hold within thyself Him Who holdeth all creation.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 4

When the holy myrrhbearers came to Thy disciples, O Christ our God, announcing Thy Resurrection, they were filled with gladness and departed for Galilee — to the mount as Thou hadst commanded them. Upon seeing Thee, very God in the flesh and not an apparition, they worshiped God, crying: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

This knowledge remained unknown among the Jews who neither understood the prophecies nor sought to understand Thy Resurrection, O Christ — how Thou couldst come forth from Thy tomb without breaking the seal thereof. Wherefore do they slander and jeer at Thy rising, but we, marveling at the mystery of it, bring praises unto Thy life-bearing tomb and sing:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, from thee Christ hath risen and raised up the dead.

Rejoice, through thee hell is known and stripped bare.

Rejoice, for the naked Adam is once again clothed in a divinely woven garment.

Rejoice, for the earth which was polluted by Abel’s fratricidal blood, is hallowed again by Christ’s abiding in thee.

Rejoice, for when the angel had rolled away the stone from before thee, the myrrhbearers came to know of Christ’s Resurrection.

Rejoice, for when Christ had risen from thee, the news of His Resurrection spread throughout all the world.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 5

On the eighth day after Thy Resurrection, Thou, O Lord, didst come to Thy disciples, although the doors were closed, and bestow the gifts of the Holy Ghost upon them. Thou didst say unto Thy disciple Thomas, “Come hither and touch me,” and he, at the touch, knew Thee as being truly risen and not an apparition. Together with the other disciples, he did humbly cry unto Thee: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

We see the council of the Jews, those falsely wise orators, mute as fish and unable to speak about Thy Resurrection, O Christ, and not understanding the prophecies — how it was meet for Thee, the God of all, to rise from the dead. We who have been given life, however, stand with amazement at Thy Resurrection and cry unto Thy life-bearing tomb:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, for Pilate’s foolish watchmen were terrified when Christ came forth from thee.

Rejoice, for Christ hath risen in truth, amazing all the disciples.

Rejoice, for He Who rose from thee broke not the seal on the grave.

Rejoice, truly rich tomb, for thou didst hold within thyself Christ the Giver of Life bestowing life upon all.

Rejoice, for when Christ rose from thee the heavens did rejoice.

Rejoice, for then the things of earth did teach the Resurrection unto all.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 6

After Thy Resurrection, O Christ, Thou didst reveal Thyself unto Thy disciples at the sea of Tiberias and command them to cast the net on the right side of the ship. Thy beloved disciple, recognizing Thee, O Lord, from the mighty catch of fish, did say unto Peter, “It is the Lord.” As soon as they had come onto land, they saw a fire and fish thereupon and bread. Wherefore in the giving of bread they did know Thee, and as unto the risen God did shout: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

The women made their way to Thy tomb in the deep dawn, O Christ our God, and though they found not Thy sought-for body, they discerned not Thy rising. Straightway they saw an angel standing before them, who asked them, “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen.” Yea, upon seeing Thy Resurrection, with great gladness they cried out these praises unto Thy life-bearing tomb:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, by Christ’s abiding within thee the nether regions were seized with great fear.

Rejoice, for then with trembling, hell did give up the dead which it had held down throughout the ages.

Rejoice, by Christ’s rising we are all restored to newness of life.

Rejoice, by Christ’s rising Thomas was taught to say, “My Lord and my God.”

Rejoice, by Christ’s rising all creation hath found joy.

Rejoice, too, O Arimathean, for within thine own garden thou hast acquired so great a treasure.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 7

The sun at Thy Passion, O Christ, unable to bear the raging frenzy of the lawless, did hide its light and the veil of the Temple was rent. When Thou wast laid in the tomb, the earth was shaken as though wanting to swallow up the unlawful. Notwithstanding, Thou as God didst rise in glory and with Thyself didst raise up Adam, the father of us all. Joyfully unto our truly risen God do we sing: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

After Thy Resurrection, O Christ, Thou didst reveal Thyself unto Luke and Cleopas along the way. Thou didst accompany them as they discussed together those things that had happened unto Thee, the Master of all, and Thou wast scorned by them as being but a stranger in Jerusalem. Thou as God didst open unto them the prophecies concerning Thyself, and thus wast known by them in the breaking of bread. Thereupon with great joy they turned back to Jerusalem and they declared the good news of Thy Resurrection and appearance unto Thy disciples. All together they did worship and sing praises unto Thy life-bearing tomb:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, for thou hast received within thyself the Heavenly Bread given as food for all.

Rejoice, for thou wast able to contain Christ as a sleeping King.

Rejoice, for Heaven and earth were filled with glad tidings when Christ rose from thee.

Rejoice, for no longer are the unlawful able to slander the Resurrection of Christ.

Rejoice, by thee the Jews were brought unto disgrace.

Rejoice, through thee the apostles’ choir was filled with joy.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 8

Mankind, together with all the angels, doth stand in wonder before Thy great care for us — Thou Who as God art inaccessible and yet as an approachable man art seen by all, for Thou wast crucified and buried and then didst rise in glory. Gratefully unto Thee as Creator and Master do we sing: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

In Thy Resurrection, O Christ, Thou didst shew forth the new creation and, as in Thy birth from the pure Virgin, Thou didst not destroy the seal on the tomb. We honour Thy Passion, we glorify Thy Burial, and in faith we worship Thy glorious Resurrection. In like manner, we offer hymns of thanksgiving unto Thy tomb, saying:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, for Christ is risen from thee and hath renewed all the world.

Rejoice, for the stone that was rolled away from thee hath shattered the gates and door-posts of hell.

Rejoice, for the Sun of the entire world hath shone forth from thee.

Rejoice, for when Christ lay within thee the nether regions were shaken asunder.

Rejoice, for those dead whom hell of old did seize, it hath unwillingly given back alive.

Rejoice, thou lightning flash which did hide the divine pearl within thyself.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 9


The apostles, those God-bearing heralds of Thy Resurrection, were sent out into all the world and they did preach Thee, the True God. They taught all the faithful to sing unto Thee, the Creator and Master: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

After Thy rising from the grave, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb whilst it was early and in darkness, and saw the stone was taken away. She therefore went quickly to the disciples, saying, “They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulcher.” Then Peter, that disciple of burning faith, ran with John to the tomb and peering within saw the garments lying empty. Thereby gaining the knowledge of Thy Resurrection, O Christ, they began shouting praises unto Thy life-bearing tomb:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, for when Christ was shut within thee He shone forth light upon the nether regions.

Rejoice, for when the stone was removed from thee the stony-hearted nations began to sing, “Christ is truly risen.”

Rejoice, within thee God did pass three days asleep in the flesh.

Rejoice, by His rising He hath awakened those who throughout the ages have been asleep.

Rejoice, by His coming forth from thee He hath bestowed resurrection upon all.

Rejoice, for as a bright sun shining forth from thee He hath enlightened all the world.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 10

The earth grew frightened and fell silent, seeing Thee its Creator lying in a small tomb, and hell, trembling with fear before Thy power, gave up its dead — preparing for Thee Thy rising to the Father from Whom Thou wast never separate. For this reason do we sing unto Thee: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Mary Magdalene, with ardent faith in Thee our Saviour Jesus Christ, came very early to Thy tomb. She was granted the vision of an angel telling her, “He is not here, but is risen.” Thou didst Thyself appear unto her as God, and hence she was sent as the bearer of good news to announce unto Thy disciples Thy rising to the Father. Thy disciples were hereafter filled with joy and together with the myrrhbearers offered praises unto Thy life-bearing tomb, crying:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, thou opening of the gates of Paradise.

Rejoice, for of Him Who lay within thee doth hell unwillingly speak truly, saying, “It were better for me had I never seized the Son of Mary.”

Rejoice, for He Who rose from thee hath led hell captive and filled the heavenly Jerusalem.

Rejoice, for as one who sleepeth thou hast held within thyself the very Lamb, the Son of God.

Rejoice, for according to the prophecy, Christ did sleep within thee and as a lion did take His rest — and who hath stirred Him up?

Rejoice, from thee He did raise Himself by His own power.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 11

When the Saviour stood before His disciples, granting them peace, He also gave them the power to forgive sins and to baptize in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost, and to preach His Resurrection from the dead. Henceforth, they did go and teach all nations to cry unto the risen God: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

After Thy rising from the dead, O Christ, appearing unto Thy disciples Thou didst say unto Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?” After his threefold affirmation of his love for Thee, Thou didst establish him as the first leader of Thy Church. All the faithful, having known Thee the risen God, cried out praises unto Thy life-bearing tomb:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, by coming forth from thee, Christ hath made us a path up to Heaven.

Rejoice, for placed within thee, Christ hath raised up the dead of all the ages.

Rejoice, for unto the resurrected He hath given eternal life.

Rejoice, for the Cross and the Resurrection are glorified in thee.

Rejoice, by thee the sentries learnt of the Resurrection.

Rejoice, for thou art a vault of divine knowledge.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 12

Glorifying Thy Passion, O Christ, we honour Thy divine providence for us and we worship Thy Resurrection. Glorifying Thine all-glorious Ascension from earth to the Heavenly Father, we pray: Take not Thy Holy Ghost away from us, so that we may all sing unto Thee as Creator and Master: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Thou the radiance of the Father didst go to the Mount of Olives where a most bright cloud did lift Thee up, as Thy disciples looked on, O Almighty One. Thine angels said unto Thine apostles, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? Him Whom ye see taken up from you shall come again in the flesh.” They returned to Jerusalem with joy, praising Thee, the True God, and offering praises unto Thy life-bearing tomb wherein Thou wast laid and on the third day didst rise:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb, Christ the ineffable Light hath shone forth from thee and enlightened the entire world.

Rejoice, for the holy myrrhbearers did hear, “Rejoice,” when Christ rose from thee.

Rejoice, for thou hast been the resting place of the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Rejoice, for thou hast held the sustainer of all creation.

Rejoice, for the most wise Jews were made fools by thee in that they could not speak against the Resurrection.

Rejoice, for the apostles’ choir hath found joy through thee.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Kontakion 13

To the most holy and life-bearing tomb of Christ, thou the enrichment of all the world. Standing before thee as the bearer of life, we pray to Christ our God Who lay within thee and Who rose in glory on the third day: That He deliver His inheritance from famine, pestilence, earthquake and flood, and from every mortal wound, and that He grant peace unto Orthodox Christians and subdue under their feet those who strive against them. Thus may we all sing unto Thee, our Creator and Master: Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

(Repeat Kontakion 13 three times.)

Kontakion 1 (repeated)

Unto the Lord of Heaven and earth and the Master of all, a hymn of victory do we sing, O Christ Eternal King, for Thou hast risen from the tomb. Being delivered from everlasting corruption, we bring joyous acclamation unto Thine honourable tomb, crying out:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

Ikos 1 (repeated)

An archangel came down from Heaven to roll away the stone from before Thy tomb at Thy Resurrection, O Christ God, and to announce Thy rising unto the myrrhbearers, saying: Go ye and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead. Thereupon wondering at the strange word of the angel, they cried unto Thy life-bearing tomb these praises:

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb wherein Christ lay as dead and whence He rose on the third day.

Rejoice, for He rose from thee and hath granted us resurrection.

Rejoice, for as a bridegroom from the bridal chamber so did Christ come forth from thee, leading hell captive.

Rejoice, for in His rising the dead of all ages have risen.

Rejoice, by thee Peter the Chief Apostle hath known the Resurrection.

Rejoice, by Christ’s lying within thee all the earth hath been hallowed.

Rejoice, life-bearing tomb whence Christ hath risen.

A Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, how can we sinners dare to approach Thy life-bearing tomb as did Thy faithful disciple, Mary Magdalene, for we do not awaken early to behold Thy presence within our monasteries or homes. How can we call Thee “Lord” as did Thomas who believed in Thy sovereign divinity, for we do not seek to know Thee in the gladness of truth. Help us, O Eternal Christ, to roll away the stone from our heart that we may rise with Thee and rejoice with the apostles and myrrhbearers as they praise Thy Resurrection. Let us love one another for Thou hast loved us first. Grant us the wisdom and humility to sing with one mind, “Christ Is Risen.” Amen.

Από ανθρώπους που δεν πιστεύουν στον Θεό, πνευματική κατανόηση να μην περιμένουμε. ( Αγιος Παΐσιος ο Αγιορείτης )


Από ανθρώπους που δεν πιστεύουν στον Θεό, πνευματική κατανόηση να μην περιμένουμε. Να ευχόμαστε να τους συγχωρέσει ο Θεός και να τους φωτίσει. Ούτε και ανθρώπους που έχουν εγωισμό και κακότητα (ας λένε ότι είναι Χριστιανοί) να κουράζεσαι να τους πείσεις να καταλάβουν την αλήθεια, γιατί μέσα τους η αλήθεια δεν χωράει.

Αγιος Παΐσιος ο Αγιορείτης

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Υπάρχει μεγάλη διαφορά μεταξύ Ανατολής και Δύσεως... ( Γέροντος Σωφρονίου )

Υπάρχει μεγάλη διαφορά μεταξύ Ανατολής και Δύσεως.Ένας Δυτικός που βαπτίζεται ορθόδοξος, θα περάση πολλά χρόνια μέσα στην Ορθόδοξη Εκκλησία, με καθοδήγηση εμπείρου Πνευματικού οδηγού για να αποκτήση καθαρό ορθόδοξο φρόνημα και ήθος. Μέχρι τότε δεν μπορεί και δεν πρέπει να κάνη τον διδάσκαλο σε ανθρώπους που έχουν κόκκαλο ορθόδοξο, που γεννήθηκαν και μεγάλωσαν ως Ορθόδοξοι.Αυτός είναι ο λόγος που δεν μπορεί να γίνη “ένωση των Εκκλησιών”. Με τις συζητήσεις μπορεί να επέλθη μια γνωριμία, που μπορεί να βοηθήση “πολιτικά”, χωρίς όμως να βλάψη την Ορθοδοξία. Αλλά η “ένωση Εκκλησιών” είναι δύσκολη, έως αδύνατη. Όσοι ομιλούν για “ένωση Εκκλησιών” δεν γνωρίζουν ούτε την νοοτροπία των ετεροδόξων ούτε το ύψος της Ορθοδοξίας.Μερικοί από τους ετεροδόξους μισούν τους Ορθοδόξους.Απόδειξη είναι ότι, αν κάποιος Δυτικός γίνη βουδιστής ή μαρξιστής, οι οικείοι του δεν τον αποβάλλουν από την οικογένειά τους, αν όμως γίνη Ορθόδοξος, τότε τον αποβάλλουν. Εάν δεν υπήρχε αυτή η νοοτροπία, τότε πολλοί Δυτικοί θα γίνονταν Ορθόδοξοι. Δεν επιθυμώ να γίνη τουλάχιστον τώρα η “Ένωση των Εκκλησιών”, διότι οι Ρωμαίοι (Λατίνοι) δεν θα αλλάξουν, αλλά και οι Ορθόδοξοι θα διαφθαρούν.Ναυπάκτου και Αγίου Βλασίου Ιεροθέου.«Οίδα άνθρωπον εν Χριστώ»Βίος και πολιτεία του Γέροντος Σωφρονίου

Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Akathist to St. Paisios



Kontakion 1

Let us believers with one voice all praise him who was sent by God in these times of trial for our comfort and guidance, Paisius the wonderful, who struggled graciously and pleasingly for the Master, burning with love for the whole world and pledged his heart for us and for our salvation. And let us call out to him in thanksgiving, saying: Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!

Ikos 1

God ordained that thou wast born in the blessed land of Cappadocia, the cradle of a countless multitude of saints, to whom thou too wast added in perfect worthiness, shining forth together with them and unceasingly guiding us to repentance. Therefore we praise thee with great joy, saying:

Rejoice, for thou didst make thyself a precious follower of the saints of Cappadocia!
Rejoice, for thou didst wholly liken thyself to them as a true bearer of God!
Rejoice, most fair and fragrant flower, who hast blossomed for our enlightenment!
Rejoice, wellspring of heavenly grace, who refreshest the whole world!
Rejoice, sweetest food, who fillest the souls that are starved of right teaching!
Rejoice, receptacle that hast gathered all our weaknesses, troubles and sorrows!
Rejoice, pillar of fire, who art the unshakable support of those that desire to gain salvation!
Rejoice, star that shinest in the firmament of the Church, guiding us to the everlasting mansions!
Rejoice, for thou wast shown to be a blessing of God and a sign of His ineffable mercy!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 2

O Blessed Father, thou wast chosen from thy mother's womb to give thyself up to God in all things and thus become a precious vessel unto Him, for the salvation and guidance of all that put their hope in thee. To Him, Who worked great wonders and mercy through thee, for such a blessing we all sing with joy the song: Alleluia!

Ikos 2

The baptism which thou, O Father, didst receive from the hands of the saint of God, Arsenius, was a sign of God’s grace resting on thee. For seeing thy many gifts in spirit, from thine early infancy he blessed thee to be his disciple and bear his name. Therefore, despite our unworthiness, we honour thee, saying:

Rejoice, for thou wast found worthy to be baptized by Saint Arsenius the Cappadocian!
Rejoice, for he foresaw all that was to come to pass with thee!
Rejoice, for his spirit rejoiced, seeing such blessed fruit sprung forth from the flock that he shepherded!
Rejoice, for on account of this he cared for thee unceasingly through all his earthly life!
Rejoice, for even after departing to heaven he did not forsake thee, but all the more interceded for thee!
Rejoice, for thou too didst honour him as befitting, piously reckoning him to be thy father in Christ!
Rejoice, for thou didst struggle heartily for his glorification, gathering testimonies of his wondrous life!
Rejoice, for the Saint of God blessed thee to find his most beloved relics, which became a fount of countless healings!
Rejoice, for lovingly thou didst lay his revered body in the monastery founded by thee at Souroti!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 3

Moving to Greece because of the tyrannical Turkish persecution, thy parents came to the land of Konitsa, and, sacrificing thyself, O father, thou didst begin to ascend the godly ladder of perfection. For even since childhood, thou wast shown to be to be a guiding light for all those around thee, who, seeing thy precious gifts, glorified God, saying: Alleluia!

Ikos 3

Instructed by the example of thy parents, from a young age thou didst strive with burning zeal for the love of Christ, showing the deeds of a perfect man. For following thy blessed mother, before long thou didst begin to fast strictly and pray unceasingly to God, a hermit by life, yet a child by age. Wondering at the manliness of thy heart, with joy we sing to thee thus:

Rejoice, for still young thou didst wholly forsake the fleeting lusts of this world!
Rejoice, for through perfect fasting thou didst preserve unspoiled the crown of virginity!
Rejoice, for thy youth did not prevent thee from acquiring unceasing prayer in solitude!
Rejoice, for instead of revelling in childish games, thou didst delight in ever being with Christ and His saints!
Rejoice, for on account of this thou didst avoid the friendship of those that sundered thee from thine ardent love!
Rejoice, for thou didst not only strive for outward things, but also adorned thy soul with all virtue!
Rejoice, for thou didst follow the kindness and devoutness of thy blessed mother!
Rejoice, for she set thee an unspoiled example of love and utter self-sacrifice!
Rejoice, for we all wonder at the courage with which thou didst begin to fight the good fight!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 4

Called to battle to defend thy country from the unbelievers, O Father, thou didst shine forth in thy boundless courage. For, wholly forsaking the love of self, thou didst ever seek to be amidst peril, in order to spare those that fought together with thee. And seeing this, they all thanked God for such support, saying: Alleluia!

Ikos 4

O Blessed Father, thou didst use the war as a means of sanctification, for thou didst unceasingly grow in love beyond passion, sacrificing thy soul for the sake of thy friends. And thus thou didst win immortal crowns from Christ our God, Who makes Himself a hundredfold reward for all sacrifice. Understanding this, we too hasten to bring words like these to praise thee:

Rejoice, for thou wast a wonderful example of utter self-sacrifice in battle!
Rejoice, for thou didst utterly scorn this earthly life, thus earning heavenly life!
Rejoice, for thou didst not lose thy piety in the dread perils which thou didst endure!
Rejoice, for through the greatness of thy soul, thou didst make thyself a light of sanctification to those around thee!
Rejoice, for thou didst help in and out of season all in trouble and sorrow!
Rejoice, for thou didst utterly overcome human fear, arming thyself with iron courage!
Rejoice, for fighting against the enemies of thy country, thou didst also secretly fight against the enemies of Thy soul!
Rejoice, for although thou didst wish to die in place of thy friends, God shielded thee as His most beloved one!
Rejoice, for through the wonderful power of thy soul, thou didst show us also the path to perfection!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 5


With burning zeal thou didst forsake the world, O Father, and wholly dedicate thyself to Christ, joining the army of monks, who unceasingly struggle to overcome their nature. And in a short time thou didst become an angel in the flesh, wholly clothing thyself in Him, to Whom we too humbly sing: Alleluia!

Ikos 5

Thou didst withdraw to the blessed desert of Sinai in order to serve Christ, O Blessed Father, and overcoming the lusts of the world, thou didst become perfect man, shining forth with all virtue and burning with true love for God, Who through thee bestowed on us the abundance of His mercy. Therefore, despite our unworthiness, we too thank thee, saying:

Rejoice, angelic man, for thou didst reckon all worldly lusts as vanity!
Rejoice, for thou didst strive for three years in the harsh desert of Sinai!
Rejoice, for unknown by all, thou didst live there in a hidden cave, enduring heat and frost!
Rejoice, for there thou didst fight unto blood against all desires!
Rejoice, for through thy great meekness, thou hast utterly defeated the cunning demons!
Rejoice, for thou didst wash from thyself all the filth of sin, becoming a true light of Christ!
Rejoice, for thou didst begin to pray with fervent tears for the whole world!
Rejoice, for seeing thy overwhelming sacrifice, God filled thee with gifts beyond nature!
Rejoice, for in thy narrow cave, thou wast vouchsafed countless revelations of divine grace!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 6


After fighting the good fight in Sinai, O Father, thou wast called by the Mother of God to her earthly garden, the Holy Mount of Athos, the blossom and light of Orthodoxy. And foreseeing there the place of thy perfection, thou didst thank the Most Holy Queen for her wondrous protecting veil, with which she unceasingly shieldeth the whole world from troubles and sufferings; and with joy thou didst sing to her Son the sweet song: Alleluia!

Ikos 6

Arriving on the Holy Mountain and taken to many places by the grace of God, thou didst ascend the ladder of holiness, O Blessed Father, like a wise bee gathering from everywhere the sweetest spiritual nectar. And afterward thou didst become the son of Father Tikhon, the Spirit-bearing Elder who was full of virtue and whom thou didst follow in absolute obedience. Therefore, with feeble voices we sing to thee thus:

Rejoice, for God foreordained glorification for thee on blessed Mount Athos!
Rejoice, for He entrusted thee to the care of His Most Pure Mother, Who guarded thee as Her beloved son!
Rejoice, for overshadowed by the Holy Spirit, thou didst wander over the whole Mountain, seeking out fathers of holy life!
Rejoice, for thou didst wonder at their unceasing prayers, through which God sheddeth His mercy on the whole world!
Rejoice, for thou didst strive to write their lives too, for the glory of God and the profit of men!
Rejoice, for afterward thou didst become the disciple of Blessed Father Tikhon, the one perfect in holiness!
Rejoice, for thou didst serve him with endless love, in all things trusting in his wise guidance!
Rejoice, for seeing thy utter obedience, God also gave thee the gift to abide in thy holy father!
Rejoice, for after his repose, Blessed Tikhon revealed to thee that he would pray for thee unceasingly!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 7

Perfecting thyself in absolute love, thou didst make thyself a tool of God, Who began to work through thee with great power. For He made thee a comfort for all those that were troubled and a guide for those that were darkened in sin. We all thank God, O Father, for He gave thee to us for our salvation, and we sing to Him thus: Alleluia!

Ikos 7

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father that is in heaven, said the Saviour of the world with true voice. For in thee too, O Father, his word was fulfilled with all power. Therefore we praise thee too, saying:

Rejoice, thou who hast taught the world through books enlightened by the Holy Spirit!
Rejoice, thou who through words of great profit hast dispelled the ignorance of our times!
Rejoice, trumpet of the Spirit, who heralded to all the joy of repentance!
Rejoice, wondrous prophet, who showed us that we live in the end times!
Rejoice, merciful healer of all diseases which cannot be healed!
Rejoice, precious carer for all whose souls are burdened with sorrows!
Rejoice, godly oil, that hast cleansed all our wounds!
Rejoice, heavenly peace, that hast brought so many broken families back together!
Rejoice, skilful guide, that hast removed all devilish snares from among the people!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 8

Seeing the terrible struggle conducted by the enemy of salvation against the family blessed by God, thou didst gird thyself with the weapon of the word, teaching spouses that only patience, long-suffering, forbearance and self-sacrifice with love can ensure the peace of their homes. Unceasingly we glorify God for sending thee, O Blessed Father, to show us the right way, and we sing: Alleluia!

Ikos 8

Give me Christian mothers and I will give you saints to change the world, said the godly Chrysostom. And touched by this truth, thou didst ever struggle with prayers and advice, showing faithful spouses that peace in the family is fruit of the Holy Spirit, and that they must wisely strive for this. We all thank thee for thine effort to bring healing to our families, so cruelly struck by temptations, saying:

Rejoice, intercessor before God for the harmony of those in married life!
Rejoice, for the faithful spouses whom thou didst advise to live in moderation and holiness!
Rejoice, for thou didst teach them lovingly and unselfishly to bear one another’s weaknesses!
Rejoice, for thou didst show the parents that through prayer the grace of God descendeth on the whole family, bringing peace and happiness!
Rejoice, for thou didst struggle against all sins, seeing them as the cause of the falling apart of families!
Rejoice, for thou didst make thyself an unyielding reprover of the horrible slaughter of infants!
Rejoice, for thou didst tell faithful mothers that through the example of their lives they can turn their children into saints!
Rejoice, for thou didst show the young that through obedience they attract the mercy of God and a peaceful life!
Rejoice, for thou didst beseech them to earn their parents’ blessing, through which cometh also the blessing of the Holy Spirit!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 9

Let us now joyfully praise Paisius, our intercessor, who through his heartfelt prayers miraculously healed all our sufferings, both in body and soul. And let us sing with thanksgiving to God, Who is glorified in the Holy Trinity: Alleluia!

Ikos 9

O Father, thou didst make thyself the healer of all diseases through the gift given to thee by God. For burning with love and pity for those tormented by afflictions, thou didst selflessly pray for their relief, teaching them to thank God for all things. We all praise thee with one voice, saying:

Rejoice, strong weapon against the horrible disease of cancer!
Rejoice, tireless carer for those that suffer in terrible pain!
Rejoice, wellspring of healing, in which all those wounded in soul refresh themselves!
Rejoice, banisher of demons, for with thy meekness thou didst crush all the wickedness and tyranny of the devil!
Rejoice, most merciful father, for thou couldst not bear to see the people crushed under the weight of their sufferings of body and soul!
Rejoice, for on account of this thou didst take upon thyself all our troubles and sorrows!
Rejoice, for thou didst selflessly pray that God might give thee our weaknesses!
Rejoice, for thou didst teach us that all sorrows come through straying from God and His commandments!
Rejoice, thou who hast shown us that the reward for those that suffer with patience and glorify God is ineffable!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 10

The Lord and Saviour of the world promised a great reward to those that would strive in righteousness for the perfection of others. And though a simple monk and unlearned in worldly things, thou, O Blessed Father, wast gifted with wisdom by the Spirit of the Lord Himself, to guide thousands on the path of salvation. Unto now thou prayest for them to God, to Whom with joy we too sing: Alleluia!

Ikos 10

On account of thy complete virtue, God adorned thee with gifts beyond nature, which thou didst use for His glory and the profit of men. For thou didst make thyself a father of countless believers, who, beset by the terrible temptations of our times, sought thee as a heavenly haven. And therefore we ask thee to accept us too among thy spiritual children and allow us to sing with thanksgiving to thee thus:

Rejoice, for thou didst teach the people to struggle against the evil thoughts sown in their minds by the enemy of our salvation!
Rejoice, for shining with the gift of discernment, thou didst at once reveal to thy sons whether their thoughts were from God or from the devil!
Rejoice, for by the grace of God thou knewest the depths of the hearts of men!
Rejoice, for having great wisdom, thou hast brought to naught all the cunning snares of the evil one!
Rejoice, for thou didst bring many to repentance through thine unfeigned love!
Rejoice, for thou didst make thyself a wise reproof of the proud and stubborn!
Rejoice, for thou wast a tender caress for those in despair and overwhelmed by temptations!
Rejoice, for thou didst weep unceasingly for all that looked to thee as a true hope of salvation!
Rejoice, for on the day of judgement thou shalt say to God with sweet joy: Behold I and the children that Thou hast given me!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 11

Becoming a perfect monk, O Father, and full of the grace of God, thou didst make thyself the steadfast hope of the unconsoled souls of those who desired to dedicate themselves wholly to Christ. And in thy gifts they all saw in thee a guide enlightened by the Holy Spirit. Therefore we praise God, Who did not deprive His flock of shepherds of holy life, saying: Alleluia!

Ikos 11

Thou didst found a convent in Souroti, where thy finest spiritual daughters would dedicate themselves to Christ the Bridegroom with great love. And then thou didst lead them to perfection through thy most wondrous counsel, as a loving and long-suffering father, who is to us also an undeceiving guide. Therefore we all bless thee, saying: Rejoice, for thou didst found the convent of Saint John the Theologian in Souroti!
Rejoice, for this became a haven of salvation for souls that thirsted for Christ!
Rejoice, for thou didst strive in and out of season to make the nuns into perfect brides of our Lord!
Rejoice, for thou didst teach them true monastic life, signifying to forsake the world and its lusts!
Rejoice, for thou didst strive unceasingly to kindle their zeal for blessed asectic feats!
Rejoice, for thou didst guide them to frequent confession of sins, through which all the devil’s works are utterly despoiled!
Rejoice, for thy counsel fell on fruitful earth and refreshed the whole world!
Rejoice, for thou didst struggle diligently against the spirit of this world, which doth terrible harm to monastic life!
Rejoice, for through thy courage and love thou didst make thyself an example of spiritual victory for all monks!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 12

Great was the grace of God on thee, O Blessed Father, and also His great mercy, for on account of thy great self-sacrifice, the Almighty vouchsafed thee wonderful revelations and joys beyond belief. We too rejoice, seeing the reward that God giveth His saints, and we beg Him to make us too partakers thereof and we sing to Him: Alleluia!

Ikos 12

Even from this earth, O Father, thou didst taste of the joys of heaven, prepared by our All-Merciful God for all that serve Him with love. For although the struggles which the evil one conducted against thee were terrible, so much greater were the consolations through which God strengthened thee in virtue. Therefore, in humble praise, we sing to thee: Rejoice, all-sweet light, through which Christ shineth forth to the whole world!
Rejoice, wonderful flame that thou kindlest in us with the love of God!
Rejoice, for thou didst make thyself the perfect abode of heavenly grace!
Rejoice, for in thee it bore all the fruits of holiness!
Rejoice, for God overwhelmed thee with His gifts beyond nature!
Rejoice, for thou didst taste of everlasting and uncreated light!
Rejoice, for thou didst live with the Saints as with thy close friends!
Rejoice, for the Most Gracious Mother of our Lord appeared to thee to strengthen thee in sorrows!
Rejoice, ineffable wonder, for thou wast vouchsafed to speak to Christ Our Lord and God Himself!
Rejoice, Blessed Father Paisius, enlightener of the latter times!


Kontakion 13

Thou, O Father, didst say with words enlightened by the Holy Spirit that many saints would have desired to live in our times, in order to strive for salvation. For Thou didst herald to us, who live in darkness, that the time is almost ready and that those that now struggle valiantly to win their salvation will receive a martyr’s reward. For this we thank God, Who with mercy looked on His people, sending His Saint for our enlightenment, and thus with voices of joy we gladly sing to our All-Gracious Master the song: Alleluia!

This Kontakion is read 3 times.

And then again Ikos 1: God ordained that thou wast born ... and Kontakion 1: Let us believers with one voice all praise ...

Then this:

Prayer to our Blessed Father Paisius the Athonite

O beloved Father Paisius, thou that didst ascend the rungs of holiness and become perfect in virtue, therefore gaining boldness before our Merciful God, do thou pray to Him, Whom thou didst serve unceasingly all thy life, not to let us perish for the multitude of our sins, but to turn us back to blessed repentance.

Thou, who on earth didst heal with such love our countless weaknesses, diseases both of body and soul, canst all the more now deliver us from all sufferings. So do thou have mercy on us, O Father, through thy immeasurable love and godly kindness, not forsaking us that are full of sins.

Do thou, who didst never tire of guiding us to salvation and bearing our weaknesses whilst thou wast here with us, now grant us too the wisdom to overcome the temptations which the wicked devil doth ever weave around us and through which he would destroy our souls for eternity. Enlighten us to know the will of God for us and pray to the Master that He might give us power to fulfil it with thanksgiving.

Do thou, who didst set an unwavering example of courage and self-sacrifice, strengthen us also to follow Thy virtue, that we may win an everlasting crown, of which thou thyself wast found most worthy.

Thus, O Father, do not forsake us, who ceaselessly anger our long-suffering God, but rather stand with boldness before His throne, interceding for us with tears, that God may give us for thy sake most dear salvation. And thus, thanking thee with all our heart for all that thou hast done and still doest for us, let us also thank our Most Gracious God, Who is glorified in the Holy Trinity, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen!

Saturday, April 9, 2016

Akathist Hymn to Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer




Kontakion 1

Unto thee, O champion leader and victorious Saint George, we offer a hymn of praise as unto our intercessor and speedy helper. Do thou, holy Great Martyr, as one who hath boldness before the Lord, deliver us from dangers of all kinds that we may cry unto thee:

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Ikos 1

The Creator of angels and Maker of all creation hath revealed thee unto His Church as a guardian and passion-bearer for the faith. Thou art an inspiration for us, and we lift up praises unto thee for the ascetic labors of thy sufferings, Saint George, in this manner:

Rejoice, thou who didst love unto the end Jesus, the Son of God.

Rejoice, thou who didst lay down thy life with love for His Name.

Rejoice, confessor called forth by God.

Rejoice, spiritual athlete glorified by the grace of God.

Rejoice, thou who dwellest with the angels.

Rejoice, thou who art the equal of the prophets.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 2

Beholding how the wicked idolaters were persecuting the Christians, thou didst not fear their wiles and tortures, divinely wise George. As a good soldier of Christ, thou didst distribute all thy possessions among the poor, and then didst voluntarily run to that ungodly gathering, singing unto Christ, thy commander and God: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Mentally comprehending the One God divinely worshipped in Three Persons, with a firm mind thou didst confess Him before the assembly of the ungodly. Thus, thou didst expose the unwise king’s foolish worship of creation. In admiration of thy lofty love of wisdom, Saint George, accept from us these fervent praises:

Rejoice, wise preacher of the One True God.

Rejoice, faithful advocate of the All-Holy Trinity.

Rejoice, thou who didst manifest the great mystery of the True Faith unto the unbelievers.

Rejoice, thou who didst expose the deception of idol worship.

Rejoice, revelation of holy wisdom.

Rejoice, image of divine inspiration.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 3

The power of God, which enlighteneth every man that cometh into the world, did visit thee also, whilst thou wast suffering in prison, O George wise in humility. Thou didst despise all the corruptible things of this life as chaff. Thou didst faithfully cling unto Christ alone, that after fighting the good fight for His Name, thou mightest be granted eternally to chant with the angels: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Possessing a mind and heart enlightened by the Holy Ghost, by His inspiration thou wast fervent to struggle for the Name of Christ, even unto blood. Standing courageously in the faith, thou didst expose the puffed-up pride of the ungodly congregation. Let us, then, come to thee, most wonderful George, singing praises unto thee:

Rejoice, shield lifted for preservation of piety.

Rejoice, sword raised for the beheading of evil.

Rejoice, confirmation of the Christian Church.

Rejoice, comfort of those gathered in prayer.

Rejoice, encouragement of the faithful.

Rejoice, fear and disgrace of the unbelievers.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 4

The mad persecutor, breathing murder against thee, O passion-bearer George, longed for thy blood like a thirsty dog, ordering thy body stretched out on a wheel and giving thee over unto the most evil torments. Wherefore thou, taking strength in the Lord, with hope and trust in God didst cry aloud: Alleluia.

Ikos 4


When Diocletian and the priest of the idols heard words of wisdom from thee, they were enraged with hatred for thee, and even more so when thou didst say: O tormentor king, why dost thou torture me in vain? For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. The faithful therefore humbly cry unto thee, O George of great fame, in this way:

Rejoice, thou who didst shed thy blood upon the wheel for thy courageous confession of the Faith.

Rejoice, thou who didst magnify the triumph of the Faith by thy blood.

Rejoice, zealot together with the apostles.

Rejoice, imitator of the voluntary Passion of Christ.

Rejoice, unshakable champion of the Faith.

Rejoice, passion-bearer harder than adamant.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 5

Thou wast as a star sent by God, O Saint George, for with thy miraculous healing and release from the wheel by an angel before the eyes of all, thou didst enlighten the unbelievers to believe in the Trinity in One Essence, and to sing unto Him together with thee: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

The people beheld the miracles of the power of God so clearly taking place in thee, and meekly accepted the teaching of Christ from thee. They cried aloud, saying: Truly great is the God of the Christians. It is fitting that we also sing praises unto thee, George worthy of glory, and so we cry out thus:

Rejoice, thou who didst disperse the darkness of unbelief by the radiant word of salvation.

Rejoice, thou who didst convert unbelievers unto Christ by thy martyr’s confession of faith.

Rejoice, thou who didst lead legions of earthly soldiers unto the heavenly army.

Rejoice, thou who dwellest with the heavenly hosts as a soldier of Christ.

Rejoice, glory of courageous soldiers.

Rejoice, beauty of the all-radiant choirs of martyrs.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 6

Zealous in faith, like unto those Spirit-bearing preachers, the apostles, thou wast crucified unto the world, O Martyr George. Just as Jonah was in the belly of the sea monster, thou wast hurled headlong into the furnace of the lime pit — that through thy life might be manifested the glory of the Lord Who is wondrous in His saints. Henceforth in the lime pit as in a temple of glory, thou didst noetically cry out: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

Having shone forth in His Resurrection from the tomb on the third day, Jesus, the Almighty Conqueror of hades and death, did save thee from corruption, O victorious George. After three days thou wast found alive in the lime pit, with thy hands lifted and singing unto God. The ungodly were sore afraid and stricken with terror, but we rejoice and compose a hymn of victory unto thee:

Rejoice, thou who didst cast down the puffed-up pride of the devil by thy being cast down in disgrace into the lime pit.

Rejoice, thou who didst overcome the persecutor’s bestiality by thy miraculous salvation from God.

Rejoice, for as one without guile, thou didst pray as for benefactors for those who worked evil against thee.

Rejoice, for thou wast zealous for their conversion as Paul was for the Jews.

Rejoice, man of spiritual desires.

Rejoice, victor through the power of Christ.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 7

Desiring by any means to ensnare thy heart for service to the idols, the wicked persecutor contrived to mislead thee by magical spells. Therein thou, chosen of God, didst cry out with David: In God is my salvation and my glory, and didst faithfully chant unto Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

That evil servant of Satan, Diocletian , revealed a new villainy. In his insane zeal for the idols, he ordered thee to be given poison, Saint George, but thou wast filled with faith and hope. Even though thou didst drink the deadly poison, yet thou didst remain unharmed, O praised-one of God. We marvel at thy holiness and sing unto thee:

Rejoice, for thou wast not disgraced by thy hope in the living God.

Rejoice, for thou didst count thy torment as nothing.

Rejoice, expeller of soul-destroying demons.

Rejoice, destroyer of the wiles of magicians.

Rejoice, through thee God is shewn to be wondrous in His saints.

Rejoice, through thee the Name of Christ is piously glorified.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 8

There came to the wicked king a strange and terrible counsel from a certain wizard: that he command thee, as proof of the truth of the Christian Faith, by thy word to resurrect a dead man. Thou, Saint George, having no doubt whatsoever, didst sing unto Him Who is not the God of the dead but the God of the living: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

The all-desirable and Sweetest Jesus, Whom thou lovest with all thy soul and heart, most blessed George, attended to the fervent prayer of thy faith and speedily commanded the resurrection of the dead man at thy word. This was to the glorification of His Name and the confirmation of the faithful, so that the unbelievers and the blind might be astounded and thereby gain knowledge of God. For this reason, we dutifully cry unto thee:

Rejoice, through thee the Lord of hosts manifested wonders.

Rejoice, through thee He resurrected a dead man from the tomb.

Rejoice, thou who didst grant the mental vision of faith unto the blinded wizard.

Rejoice, thou who didst shew the way to the Holy of Holies unto many who suffered for Christ.

Rejoice, astonishment of Rome.

Rejoice, exaltation of the Christian race.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 9

All the angels rendered praise unto God, Who granted thee such courage, victorious George, that even when locked up in prison thou didst not cease to keep vigil in prayer. As a great communicant of the mystery of divine grace, thou wast vouchsafed to behold the Lord in a vision. He crowned thy head with the crown of incorruption, so that we might cry out with thee: Alleluia.

Ikos 9


The learned orators are unable with their rhetorical tongues to render worthy praises unto thee, Martyr George, for thy labors and sufferings which thou didst assume voluntarily for Christ and the Church. We also, not knowing how to properly praise thee, chant this hymn with faith:

Rejoice, by thy voluntary suffering for Christ and the Church thou didst crucify the old Adam in thyself.

Rejoice, by thy courageous suffering thou didst receive a crown of righteousness from the Lord.

Rejoice, rule of pious zeal.

Rejoice, model of self-sacrifice.

Rejoice, for thou didst please not thyself, but Christ alone.

Rejoice, for thou wast prepared for any form of death for the sake of thy Saviour, Christ.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 10

Desiring to save the souls perishing in idolatry, O Saint George, lover of God, thou wast zealous for God like Elijah. Entering into the temple of the idols, by the power of God thou didst drive out the demons, shattering the idols and putting the priests to shame. Thereafter as conqueror, not with men but with angels, thou didst chant unto God: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

More unfeeling than a wall, thy hard-hearted tormentor, O Great Martyr, did not see God, Who so clearly worked miracles through thee, but to the end remained as an asp, stopping his ears. He commanded thee to be executed as a criminal by beheading. Though grieving over the loss of his soul, thou didst joyfully accept thine end, for which we praise thee with love in this manner:

Rejoice, thou who didst keep faith, hope and love unto the end.

Rejoice, thou who didst work many great miracles at thy beheading.

Rejoice, thou who wast crowned to the glory of God’s goodwill toward those on earth.

Rejoice, thou who wast adorned with majesty in Heaven.

Rejoice, man of God.

Rejoice, good soldier of Christ.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 11

Thou didst render a hymn unto the Most Holy Trinity exceeding others, holy Saint George, not in word and mind only, but by the living sacrifice of thy whole self. Imitating Him Who was crucified for us, Christ the Lamb without blemish, thou didst voluntarily lay down thy life for thy friends. Even though we are incapable of praising such courage as thine, for no man hath greater love than this, yet being grateful we sing unto Him Who is wondrous in the saints: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

A light-receiving lamp of the True Light art thou to those on earth, Saint George, chosen of God, for thou dost enlighten the hearts of the faithful and dost guide them all unto divine understanding, instructing us also to joyfully cry aloud:

Rejoice, for thou dost dwell in the all-radiant angelic mansions.

Rejoice, for thou dost commune of the never-waning light of the Trinity not in a mirror, but face to face.

Rejoice, provider for the needy and defender of the wronged.

Rejoice, healer of the infirm and support of kings.

Rejoice, champion of Orthodox soldiers in battle.

Rejoice, fervent intercessor for the salvation of sinners.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 12

Knowing the grace granted by God, we celebrate thy memory, Great Martyr George. Running with fervent prayer to thy miraculous icon, we are protected by thine all-powerful help in the Lord as by an invincible wall. In praise of thine aid to others, we fervently cry unto God: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Hymning thy glorious end, by which thou wast magnified as a good soldier of Christ, we pray thee, O passion-bearer and helper in all good for us: Protect us as we earnestly cry unto thee:

Rejoice, by thee the Church of the faithful is enlightened.

Rejoice, for thy name is praised even among the infidels.

Rejoice, wondrous glory of the confessors.

Rejoice, lofty praise of the martyrs.

Rejoice, protector of those who honour thy memory.

Rejoice, deliverer of those who confess Christ God.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Kontakion 13

Most blessed and holy Great Martyr George, accept our hymn of praise and deliver us from every evil by thy fervent intercession unto God, so that we may sing with thee: Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

(Repeat Kontakion 13 three times.)

Kontakion 1 (repeated)

Unto thee, O champion leader and victorious Saint George, we offer a hymn of praise as unto our intercessor and speedy helper. Do thou, holy Great Martyr, as one who hath boldness before the Lord, deliver us from dangers of all kinds that we may cry unto thee:

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

Ikos 1 (repeated)

The Creator of angels and Maker of all creation hath revealed thee unto His Church as a guardian and passion-bearer for the faith. Thou art an inspiration for us, and we lift up praises unto thee for the ascetic labors of thy sufferings, Saint George, in this manner:

Rejoice, thou who didst love unto the end Jesus, the Son of God.

Rejoice, thou who didst lay down thy life with love for His Name.

Rejoice, confessor called forth by God.

Rejoice, spiritual athlete glorified by the grace of God.

Rejoice, thou who dwellest with the angels.

Rejoice, thou who art the equal of the prophets.

Rejoice, Saint George, Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer.

A Prayer

Great Martyr George, we hasten to thee for triumph over every torment and distress and over all pride and passion, that we may glorify Jesus Christ as zealous conquerors of this world and heirs of the Heavenly Kingdom. We acknowledge our unworthiness of such holy victory but, in praise of the courage, hope and trust which thou hast demonstrated throughout thy life and into thy martyrdom, we lovingly beseech thine aid in battle against sin. Pray for us, Saint George, that we may be granted the grace to confess the Faith before others and to fulfill the Commandments under all circumstances and among all people. Let us witness of Christ the Lord that everyone might see His radiant light and believe in His holy teachings. Amen