Sept. 14 The Exaltation of the Honorable and Life-giving Cross

The Exaltation of the Precious, Holy, and Life-Creating Cross, which is exalted and honored the day after the dedication of the basilica of the Resurrection built over the tomb of Christ, just as the trophy and sign of his paschal victory would appear in heaven, at last foretelling his second advent to all.

 

Troparion

Save Your people, O Lord, and bless your inheritance. Grant victory to your Church over evil and protect Your people by Your cross.

 

Kontakion

Christ our God, who were willingly raised upon the cross, grant Your mercies to the new people who bear Your name. By Your power grant joy to the Church. Give her victory over evil with Your invincible trophy, the weapon of peace, as an ally. 

 

Epistle

1 Corinthians 1: 18-24

Brothers and sisters: The message of the cross is complete absurdity to those who are headed for ruin, but to us who are experiencing salvation it is the power of God. Scripture says, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and thwart the cleverness of the clever.” Where is the wise man to be found? Where the scribe? Where is the master of worldly argument? Has not God turned the wisdom of this world into folly? Since in God’s wisdom the world did not come to know him through “wisdom,” it pleased God to save those who believe through the absurdity of the preaching of the gospel. Yes, Jews demand “signs” and Greeks look for “wisdom,” but we preach Christ crucified-a stumbling block to Jews, and an absurdity to Gentiles; but to those who are called, Jews and Greeks like, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

 

Gospel

John 19: 6-11, 13-20, 25-28, 30b-35a

At that time when the chief priests and the temple guards saw Jesus with Pilate they shouted, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” Pilate said, “Take him and crucify him yourselves; I find no case against him.” The Jews responded, “We have our own law, and according to that law he must die because he made himself God’s Son.” When Pilate heard this kind of talk, he was more afraid than ever. Going back into the praetorium, he said to Jesus, “Where do you come from?” Jesus would not give him any answer. “Do you refuse to speak to me?” Then Pilate asked him “Do you not know that I have the power to release you and the power to crucify you?” Jesus answered: “You would have no power over me whatever unless it were given from above.”

Pilate heard the people shouting so he brought Jesus outside and took a seat on a judges’ bench at the place called the Stone Pavement – Gabbatha in Hebrew. It was the Preparation Day for Passover, and the hour was about noon. Pilate said to the Jews, “Look at your king!” At this they shouted “Away with him! Away with him! Crucify him!” “What!” Pilate exclaimed. “Shall I crucify your king?” The chief priests replied, “We have no king but Caesar.” In the end, Pilate handed Jesus over to be crucified. 

Jesus was led away, and carrying the cross by himself, went out to what is called the Place of the Skull (in Hebrew, Golgotha). There they crucified him, and two others with him; one on either side, Jesus in the middle. Pilate had an inscription placed on the cross which read, JESUS THE NAZOREAN THE KING OF THE JEWS. This inscription, in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek, was read by many of the Jews, since the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city. The chief priests of the Jews tried to tell Pilate, “You should not have written, ‘The King of the Jews.’ Write instead, ‘This man claimed to be King of the Jews.’”

Near the cross of Jesus there stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. Seeing his mother there with the disciple whom he loved, Jesus said to his mother, “Woman, there is your son.” In turn he said to the disciple, “There is your mother.” From that hour onward, the disciple took her into his care.

Then Jesus bowed his head, and delivered over his spirit. Since it was the Preparation Day the Jews did not want to have the bodies left on the cross during the sabbath, for that sabbath was a solemn feast day. They asked Pilate that the legs be broken and the bodies be taken away. Accordingly, the soldiers came and broke the legs of the men crucified with Jesus, first of the one, then of the other. When they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. One of the soldiers thrust a lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out. This testimony has been given by an eyewitness, and his testimony is true. He tells what he knows is true, so that you may believe. 

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Sept. 13 The Commemoration of the Dedication of the Holy Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord in Jerusalem; Prefestive of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross; The Holy Bishop-Martyr Cornelius

The commemoration of the dedication of the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord in Jerusalem: When St. Helen found the Lord’s cross in Jerusalem, she stayed longer in the city and built churches in Gethsemane, in Bethlehem, on the Mount of Olives, and in other places connected to the life and death of the Lord. She began to build a huge church on Golgotha, which would house both the hill of Calvary and the tomb from which the Lord rose. St. Helen died before it was finished, and the church was consecrated on this date in 335. 

The holy bishop-martyr Cornelius the Centurion was an officer in Palestine converted by the Apostle Peter (cf Acts 10). St. Peter also made Cornelius bishop and sent him to the pagan town of Skepseis. There he destroyed the temple of Apollo and baptized the local ruler. He was martyred in that town and buried with reverence by his church. 

 

Troparion – Dedication

Lord, Life, and Resurrection of All, You showed the beauty of the holy dwelling place of Your glory on earth like the splendor of the firmament on high. Make it stand firm forever. Through the Theotokos, accept our prayers which we unceasingly offer to You within it. 

 

Troparion – Cornelius

You shared in the apostles’ way of life and succeeded to their throne, divinely inspired bishop. You found access to contemplation in the active life. Therefore, you rightly taught the word of truth and struggled for the faith to the shedding of your blood. O Priest-Martyr Cornelius, pray to Christ our God to save our souls. 

Troparion – Prefeast

Lord, we offer to You in intercession the goodness of Your life-creating cross which You gave to us, Your unworthy people. Save our nation and Your Church which implores You through the Theotokos. For You alone love mankind.

 

Kontakion – Dedication

You have made of the Church a resplendent heaven, enlightening all the faithful. Therefore, we stand in the midst of this holy dwelling place and we cry out to You: Make firm this house, O Lord.

 

Kontakion – Cornelius

O God-wise Cornelius, priest of the Mysteries, the Church, receiving you as the holy first-fruit of the Gentiles, is enlightened by the acts of your good deeds. 

 

Kontakion – Prefeast

Today the saving wood shines forth from the bosom of the earth. It is reverently lifted up in the church by the hands of the bishop. The whole world prostrates and kisses it with awe. Save us through Your cross, O Lord. 

 

Readings for the Dedication

Epistle

Hebrews 3: 1-4

Holy brethren who share a heavenly calling, fix your eyes on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we acknowledge in faith, who was faithful to him who appointed him. Moses, too, “was faithful in all God’s household,” but Jesus is more worthy of honor than he, as the founder of a house is more honorable than the house itself. Every house is founded by someone, but God is the founder of all. 

 

Gospel

Matthew 16: 13-19

At that time Jesus asked his disciples: “Who do the people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptizer, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “And you,” he said to them, “who do you say that I am?” “You are the Messiah,” Simon Peter answered, “the Son of the living God!” Jesus replied, “Blest are you, Simon son of Jonah! No mere man has revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. I for my part declare to you, you are ‘Rock,’ and on this rock I will build my church, and the jaws of death shall not prevail against it. I will entrust to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you declare bound on earth shall be bound in heaven; whatever you declare loosed on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

 

Readings for the 16th Wednesday after Pentecost

Epistle

Galatians 6: 2-10

Brothers and sisters: Help carry one another’s burdens; in that way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he amounts to something, when in fact he is nothing, he is only deceiving himself. Each man should look to his conduct; if he has reason to boast of anything, it will be because the achievement is his and not another’s. Everyone should bear his own responsibility.

The man instructed in the word should share all he has with his instructor. Make no mistake about it, no one makes a fool of God! A man will reap only what he sows. If he sows in the field of the flesh, he will reap a harvest of corruption; but if he seed-ground is the spirit, he will reap everlasting life. Let us not grow weary of doing good; if we do not relax our efforts, in due time we shall reap our harvest. While we have the opportunity, let us do good to all men-but especially those of the household of the faith. 

 

Gospel

Luke 4: 1-15

At that time Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was conducted by the Spirit into the desert for forty days, where he was tempted by the devil. During that time he ate nothing, and at the end of it he was hungry. The devil said to him, “ If you are the Son of God, command this stone to turn into bread.” Jesus answered him, “Scripture has it, ‘Not on bread alone shall man live.’”

Then the devil took Jesus up higher and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a single instant. The devil said to Jesus, “I will give you all this power and glory of these kingdoms; the power has been given to me and I give it to whomever I wish. Prostrate yourself in homage before me, and it shall all be yours.” In reply, Jesus said to him, “Scripture has it, ‘You shall do homage to the Lord your God; him alone shall you adore.’”

Then the devil led Jesus to Jerusalem, set him on a parapet of the temple, and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for Scripture has it, ‘He will bid his angels watch over you’; and again [it says] ‘With their hands they will support you, that you may never stumble on a stone.’”

Jesus said to him in reply, “It also says, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’”

When the devil had finished all the tempting he left him, to await another opportunity. Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and his reputation spread throughout the region. He was teaching in their synagogues, and all were loud in his praise.

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Sept. 12 The Holy Priest-Martyr Autonomous

The holy bishop martyr Autonomous fled Italy during the Diocletian persecution and settled in Asian Bithynia at a place called Soreoi. There, he converted many to Christianity, and built a church for them dedicated to the holy Archangel Michael. Autonomous lived in the home of a devout Christian, Cornelius, whom he first ordained as a presbyter, and then consecrated to the episcopacy. Not far from Soreoi there was a place called Limnae, inhabited entirely by pagans. St. Autonomous went to this place and soon enlightened many with the Gospel of Christ. This embittered the pagans, and one day they rushed into the Church of the Holy Archangel Michael in Soreoi during the divine service and slew Autonomous in the sanctuary, and killed many other Christians in the church. 

 

Troparion

The Church calls us to celebrate your holy memory with faith, O splendid and glorious Autonomous, who pleased the Trinity. She rejoices and praises you. Pray for us to God, the only Lover of Mankind. 

 

Kontakion

O most wise one, you worthily offered the Divine Mysteries, You became an acceptable offering, O God-blessed one. You drank from the cup of Christ, O most glorious one, O light of the whole world, pray unceasingly for all of us. 

 

Epistle

Galatians 5: 11-21

Brothers and sisters, as for me, if I am still preaching circumcision, why do the attacks on me continue? If I were, the cross would be a stumbling block no more. Would that those who are troubling you might go the whole way, and castrate themselves!

My brethren, remember that you have been called to live in freedom–but not a freedom that gives free reign to the flesh. Out of love, fulfillment in this one saying: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” If you go on biting and tearing one another to pieces, take care! You will end up in mutual destruction!

My point is that you should live in accord with the spirit and you will not yield to the cravings of the flesh. The flesh lusts against the spirit and the spirit against the flesh; the two are directly opposed. This is why you do not do what your will intends. If you are guided by the spirit, you are not under the law. It is obvious what proceeds from the flesh: lewd conduct, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcery, hostilities, bickering, jealousy, drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I have warned you before: those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God!

 

Gospel

Luke 3: 23-38; 4:1

When Jesus began his work he was about thirty years of age, being–so it was supposed– the son of Joseph, son of Heli, son of Matthat, son of Levi, son of Melchi, son of Jannai, son of Joseph,  son of Mattathias, son of Amos, son of Nahum, son of Esli, son of Naggai, son of Maath, son of Mattathias, son of Semein, son of Josech, son of Joda, son of Joanan, son of Rhesa, son of Neri, son of Melchi, son of Addi, son of Cosam, son of Elmadam, son of Er, son of Joshua, son of Eliezer, son of Jorim, son of Matthat, son of Levi, son of Simeon, son of Judah, son of Joseph, son of Jonam, son of Eliakim, son of Meleah, son of Menna, son of Mattatha, son of Nathan, son of David, son of Jesse, son of Obed, son of Boaz, son of Sala, son of Nahshon, son of Aminadab, son of Admin, son of Arni, son of Hezron, son of Perez, son of Judah, son of Jacob, son of Isaac, son of Abraham, son of Terah, son of Nahor, son of Serug, son of Reu, son of Peleg, son of Eber, son of Shelah, son of Cainan, son of Arphaxas, son of Shem, son of Noah, son of Lamech, son of Methusaleh, son of Enoch, son of Jared, son of Mahaleleel, son of Cainan, son of Enos, son of Seth, son of Adam, son of God.

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, then returned from the Jordan and was conducted by the Spirit into the desert. 

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Sept. 11 Our Venerable Mother Theodora of Alexandria

Our venerable mother Theodora of Alexandria who, as a young woman committed adultery on the advice of a fortune-teller. She was accused by her conscience, and left the world, cutting off her hair and dressing as a man in order to enter the monastery of Octodecatos, assuming the name of Theodore. Falsely accused of having sex with a prostitute, she accepted rebuke as a punishment for her former sin. She ended up in the desert for seven years, until the hegumen took her back. Only at her death in the year 490 did the monks realize that she was a woman. 

 

Troparion

In you, O mother, the divine image was strictly preserved; taking up your cross, you followed Christ. You taught us by example how to spurn the flesh, for it passes away, and how to care for the soul, which is immortal. Therefore, O venerable Theodora, your soul rejoices with the angels.

 

Kontakion

In order to obtain complete forgiveness of your sins, you spent all of your bodily strength in fast and your nights in vigils and prayers to God. Through the way of repentance you obtained forgiveness. 

 

Epistle

Galatians 4:28 – 5:10

Brothers and sisters: You are children of the promise, as Isaac was. But just as in those days the son born in nature’s course persecuted the one whose birth was in the realm of the spirit, so do we find it now. What does Scripture say on the point? “Cast out slave girl and son together; for the slave girl’s son shall never be heir on equal terms with the son” of the one born free. 

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, we are not children of a slave girl but of a mother who is free.

It was for liberty that Christ freed us. So stand firm, and so not take on yourselves the yoke of slavery a second time! Pay close attention to me, Paul, when I tell you that if you have yourselves circumcised, Christ will be of no use to you! I point out once more to all who receive circumcision that they are bound to the law in its entirety. Any of you who seek your justification in the law have severed yourselves from Christ and fallen from God’s favor! It is in the spirit that we eagerly await the justification we hope for, and only faith can yield it. In Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor the lack of it counts for anything; only faith, which expresses itself through love. 

You were progressing so very well; who diverted you from the path of truth? Such enticement does not come from him who calls you. “A little yeast can affect the entire dough.” I trust that, in the Lord, you will not adopt a different view. May condemnation fall on whoever it is that is unsettling you.

 

Gospel

Mark 6:54 – 7:8

At that time as Jesus and the disciples were leaving the boat the people immediately recognized him. The crowds scurried about the adjacent area and began to bring in the sick on bedrolls to the place where they heard he was. Wherever he put in an appearance, in villages, in towns, or at crossroads, they laid the sick in the market places and begged him to let them touch just the tassel of his cloak. All who touched him got well.

The Pharisees and some of the experts in the law who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus. They had observed a few of his disciples eating meals without having purified–that is to say, washed–their hands. The Pharisees, and in fact all Jews, cling to the custom of their ancestors and never eat without scrupulously washing their hands. Moreover, they never eat anything from the market without first sprinkling it. There are many other traditions they observe–for example, the watching of cups and jugs and kettles. So the Pharisees and the scribes questioned Jesus: “Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of our ancestors, but instead take food without purifying their hands?” He said to them: “How accurately Isaiah prophesied about you hypocrites when he wrote, ‘This people pays me lip service but their heart is far from me. Empty is the reverence they do me because they teach as dogmas mere human precepts.’ You disregard God’s commandment and cling to what is human tradition.” 

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Sept. 10 The Holy Martyrs Menodora, Mitrodora, and Nymphodora; Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross

The holy martyrs Menodora, Mitrodora, and Nymphodora were sisters from Bythinia. Brought up as Christians, they withdrew from the city into the desert to live for Christ alone, and gave themselves up to fasting, prayer, and work. They became famous as a source of healing illness, which brought them to the attention of the governor. He, astounded by their beauty, wanted to marry them off to noblemen, but they refused. He then out them to the torture to get them to renounce Christ. They died confessing the name of Jesus in the year 306.

 

Troparion

You traded violent tortures and bitter death for eternal life. Three virgins professed the Uncreated Trinity before a false judge at the illegal trial. You followed the footsteps of the slaughtered Lamb when they pierced you with a sword. Pray for those who honor your memory.

 

Kontakion

Fearless as you were in your struggles for the Holy Trinity and because of your sisterly love for each other, you defeated the enemy of your spiritual life. Therefore, in the company of the five virgins you entered victoriously into the heavenly mansions where you are forever joyful with the angels in the presence of the King of all. 

 

Epistle

Galatians 6: 11-18

Brothers and sisters: See, I write to you in my own large handwriting! Those who are trying to force you to be circumcised are making a play for human approval–with an eye to escaping persecution for the cross of Christ. The very ones who accept circumcision do not follow the law themselves. They want you to be circumcised only that they may boast about your bodily observance.

May I never boast of anything but the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ! Through it, the world has been crucified to me and I to the world. It means nothing whether one is circumcised or not. All that matters is that one is created anew. Peace and mercy on all who follow this rule of life, and on the Israel of God. 

Henceforth, let no man trouble me, for I bear the brand marks of Jesus in my body. Brethren, may the favor of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. 

 

Gospel

John 3: 13-17

The Lord said: “No one has gone up to heaven except the One who came down from there – the Son of Man [who is in heaven]. Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that all who believe may have eternal life in him. Yes, God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him may not die but may have eternal life. God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.”

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Sunday Bulletin 9/10/23

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Saturday, Sept 9  –  Saturday before the Exaltation of the Cross – Synaxis of Joachim and Anna          

5:00 PM          Santa Paula Outreach Divine Liturgy

Sunday, Sept 10  – Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross         

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, Sept 11  –  Theodora, Venerable       

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

5:30 PM          Akathist* for those suffering Addictions & Mental Illness

Wednesday, Sept 13  –  Dedication of the Church of the Resurrection   

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

5:30 PM          Vespers

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy Exaltation of the Holy Cross Vigil

7:30 PM          Firepit Social

Thursday, Sept 14  –  Exaltation of the Holy Cross      

8:30 AM          Matins

6:00 PM          Santa Paula Outreach Divine Liturgy Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Saturday, Sept 16  –  Saturday after the Exaltation of the Cross        

5:00 PM          Santa Paula Outreach Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Reader Vespers

Sunday, Sept 17  –  Sunday after Exaltation of the Cross           

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy 

*Add first names to this prayer service by emailing niemirick@gmail.com

MYSTERY OF REPENTANCE (Confession)

St. Mary’s: Sundays 8:45 AM or by appointment

Santa Paula: Saturdays 4:15 PM or by appointment

PRAYER REQUESTS

(Please resubmit or submit names to admin@ByzantineLA.com)

The Carlin Family, Michael Hefferon, Shirley Kunze, Michael Mina, Peter Mina, Fr. John Mina, Mila Mina, Lana Zimmerman, Patrick Zimmerman, Shannon O’Neill, Fern Bonowicz, All the sick and suffering of St. Mary’s

WEEKLY DEPOSIT:

Collection: $4,988.00; Santa Paula: $442.50; Candles: $79.45; Bishop’s Appeal: $240.00; Parish Socials: $321.81; Church Improvements: $460.00; Santa Paula Improvements: $120.00; Gift Shop: $15.00; Charity: $250.00; Reimbursement: $618.03

Total: $7,534.79 / Attendance – PSM: 101 VCO: 42

 

Save the Date! Family Day 10/01

Sunday October 1 is our Parish feast day and our annual Family Day Celebration. Look for sign-up sheets in the small hall. The potluck will begin at noon to give families from Santa Paula time to arrive. There will be coffee and pastries served outside directly following liturgy. Families can expect water activities for children and the young at heart (swimsuits/change of clothes and towels recommended).

Sign of The Cross

As we make the sign of the Cross, we say the following prayer:  “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen”.  Doing so, we clearly indicate that we belong to God and serve Him alone. God is always near us, because He is everywhere. He always sees us, just as He sees everything. But during prayer, we are especially close to God: we stand before Him, speak to Him and He listens to us. Because of this, while praying, we sign ourselves with the Cross more often, especially before and after each prayer. We also make the Cross upon ourselves when we enter church, approach a sacred object or kiss an icon, and many times during church services. We should make the sign of the Cross in the morning to obtain God’s blessing on the day; in the evening to ask for His protection during the night; at all the important moments of our life: when in danger, in sorrow, in joy; before all important undertakings that they may turn out well; at mealtime to invoke God’s blessing and to give Him thanks.

From:  http://tinyurl.com/bdh67t5f

 “Certainly, God did not send his Son into the world to judge the world, but so that the world should be saved through him.” Christ is truly the salvation of the world. As Christians, we are little Christs. Each of us can bring salvation to the world by living the life of Christ. Is God calling you to show his salvation to the world by a life of prayer and repentance as a priest, deacon, monk or nun? To learn more, contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

Sept. 9 The Synaxis of the Holy and Just Grandparents of God Joachim and Anna; The Holy Martyr Severian

The Synaxis of the holy and just grandparents of God, Joachim and Anna, parents of Mary the immaculate Virgin mother of God, the names of whom were preserved by the ancient traditions of Christians from the Jews. The couple lived at Nazareth in Galilee. They were childless into their old age and all their life they grieved over this. They had to endure derision and scorn, since at that time childlessness was considered a disgrace. They never grumbled, but fervently prayed to God, humbly trusting in Him. The prayer of the saintly couple was heard. An angel told them that a daughter would be born to them, Who would be blessed above all other women. He also told them that She would remain a virgin, would be dedicated to the Lord and live in the Temple, and would give birth to the Savior. Obeying the instructions of the heavenly messenger, Joachim and Anna met at the Golden Gate in Jerusalem. Then, as God promised, a daughter was born to them and they named her Mary. Joachim died a few years later at the age of 80, after his daughter went to live in the Temple.  Anna died at the age of 70, two years after her husband.

The holy martyr Severian was a nobleman from Sebaste. He comforted the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste (May 9) in their imprisonment. After their death in the year 320, he was also arrested, and hanged from a tree with stones hanging from his neck and from his feet.

 

Troparion – Grandparents

The just couple who lived in a state of grace, Joachim and Anna, gave birth to this holy child for us. Therefore, the holy Church solemnly honors this feast in glory and celebrates your precious memory today. She glorifies God who has lifted up our horn of salvation in the house of David. 

 

Troparion – Martyr

Your martyr Severian, O Lord our God, in his struggle received an incorruptible crown from You. With Your strength, he brought down the tyrants and broke the cowardly valor of demons. Through his prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.

 

Kontakion – Grandparents

The chains of sterility are broken and Anna rejoices. She nurses the most pure Lady and invites us to sing with her to the Virgin Mother who is born for all people. 

 

Kontakion – Martyr

With a soul armed with courage, O God-wise one, you yourself were given over to various sufferings because you were enflamed with love of the Master, O truly wealthy one. Therefore, you accused the unjust torturer, O Severian, and you were given an incorruptible triumphal crown by God. 

 

Epistle

1 Corinthians 2: 6-9

Brothers and sisters: There is, to be sure, a certain wisdom which we express among the spiritually mature. It is not a wisdom of this age, however, nor of the rulers of this age, who are men headed for destruction. No, what we utter is God’s wisdom: a mysterious, a hidden wisdom. God planned it before all ages for our glory. None of the rulers of this age knew the mystery; if they had known it, they would never have crucified the Lord of glory. Of this wisdom it is written: “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those who love him.”

 

Gospel

Matthew 10: 37-42, 11:1

The Lord said: “Whoever loves father or mother, son or daughter, more than me is not worthy of me. He who will not take up his cross and come after me is not worthy of me. He who seeks only himself brings himself to ruin, whereas he who brings himself to nought for me discovers who he is.

“He who welcomes you welcomes me, and he who welcomes me welcomes him who sent me. He who welcomes a prophet because he bears the name of prophet receives a prophet’s reward; he who welcomes a holy man because he is known to be holy receives a holy man’s reward. And I promise you that whoever gives a cup of cold water to one of these lowly ones because he is a disciple will not want for his reward.”

When Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he left that locality to teach and preach in their towns. 

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Sept. 8 The Nativity of Our Most Holy Lady, The Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary

The nativity of the Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary, of the seed of Abraham, born from the tribe of Judah, from the line of King David. The Holy Theotokos was born of the elderly parents, Joachim of the lineage of David, and Anna of the lineage of Aaron. Therefore, Mary was of royal birth by her father, and of priestly birth by her mother, foreshadowing Him who would be born of her as King and High Priest. Because her parents were very old and had no children, they were ashamed before men and humble before God. In their humility they prayed to God to bring them joy in their old age by giving them a child. Mary was born in Nazareth and at the age of three was taken to the Temple in Jerusalem. In her young womanhood she returned to Nazareth and shortly thereafter heard the Annunciation of the Angel Gabriel concerning the birth of the Son of God from her most pure virgin body. From her, the Son of God was born in the flesh that he might free people from the ancient slavery of sin. 

 

Troparion

Your birth, O Virgin Theotokos, heralded joy to the universe; for from you arose the Sun of Justice, Christ our God. Removing the curse, He gave the blessing, and by destroying Death, He granted us eternal salvation.

 

Kontakion

At your holy birth, O Immaculate One, Joachim and Anna were freed from the reproach of childlessness and Adam and Eve from the corruption of death. Your people, delivered from the guilt of their faults, celebrate your birth and cry out: The barren woman gives birth to the Theotokos and Sustainer of our Life

 

Readings for the Feast

Epistle

Philippians 2: 5-11

Brothers and sisters: Your attitude must be that of Christ: Though he was in the form of God, he did not deem equality with God something to be grasped at. Rather, he emptied himself and took the form of a slave, being born in the likeness of men. He was known to be of human estate and it was thus that he humbled himself, obediently accepting even death, death on a cross! Because of this, God highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name above every other name, so that at Jesus’ name every knee must bend in the heavens, on the earth, and under the earth, and every tongue proclaim to the glory of God the Father: JESUS CHRIST IS LORD!

 

Gospel

Luke 10: 38-42, 11: 27-28

At that time Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed him to her home. She had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and listened to his words. Martha, who was busy with all the details of hospitality, came to Jesus and said, “Lord, are you not concerned that my sister has left me to do the household tasks all alone? Tell her to help me.”

The Lord in reply said to her: “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and upset about many things; one thing only is required. Mary has chosen the better portion and she shall not be deprived of it.”

While he was saying this a woman from the crowd called out, “Blest is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!” Jesus replied, “Rather, blest are they who hear the word of God and keep it.”

 

Readings for the day

Epistle

Galatians 4: 8-21

Brothers and sisters: In the past, when you didn’t not acknowledge God, you served as slaves to gods who are not really divine. Now that you have come to know God–or rather, have been known by him–how can you return to those powerless, worthless, natural elements to which you seem willing to enslave yourselves once more? You even go so far as to keep the ceremonial observance of days and months, seasons and years! I fear for you; all my efforts with you may have been wasted.

I beg you, brethren, to become like me as I became like you. (Understand, you have not done me any wrong.) You are aware that it was a bodily ailment that first occasioned my bringing you the gospel. My physical condition was a challenge which you did not despise or brush aside in disgust. On the contrary, you took me to yourselves as an angel of God, even as if I had been Christ Jesus! What has happened to your openhearted spirit? I can testify on your behalf that if it were possible you would have plucked out your eyes and given them to me. Have I become your enemy just because I tell you the truth?

The people I have referred to are not courting your favor in any generous spirit. What they really want is to exclude you so that you may court their favor. It would be well for you to be courted for the right reasons at all times, and not only when I happen to be with you. You are my children, and you put me back in labor pains until Christ is formed in you. If only I could be with you now and speak to you differently! You have me at a complete loss. You who want to be subject to the law, tell me: do you know what the law has to say?

 

Gospel

Mark 6: 45-53

At that time Jesus insisted that his disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side toward Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. When he had taken leave of them, he went off to the mountain to pray. As evening drew on, the boat was far out on the lake while he was alone on the land. Then, seeing them tossed about as they tried to row with the wind against them, he came walking toward them on the water; the time was between three and six in the morning. He meant to pass them by. When they saw him walking on the lake, they thought it was a ghost and they began to cry out. They had all seen him and were terrified. He hastened to reassure them: “Got hold of yourselves! It is I. Do not be afraid!” He got into the boat with them and the wind died down. They were taken aback by these happenings, for they had not understood about the loaves. On the contrary, their minds were completely closed to the meaning of the events. After making the crossing they came ashore at Gennesaret, and tied up there. 

 

 

Sept. 7 The Holy Martyr Sozon; Prefestive day of the Nativity of the Theotokos

The holy martyr Sozon was a shepherd of Lycaonia who taught his family and friends the law of God. Sozon destroyed an idol, and was tortured and then burned for his Christian faith in the year 304 in Popeiopolis in Cilicia. 

 

Troparion – Prefestive

Today is born to us from the root of Jesse and the loins of David, Mary, the godly child. Therefore, all creation rejoices and is renewed. Heaven and earth rejoice together. You families of nations sing her praise. Joachim is elated and Anna cries out in celebration: The barren woman gives birth to the Theotokos and the Sustainer of our life. 

 

Troparion – Martyr

Your martyr Sozon, O Lord our God, in his struggle, received an incorruptible crown from you. With your strength, he brought down the tyrants and broke the cowardly valor of demons. Through his prayer, O Christ our God, save our souls. 

 

Kontakion – Theotokos 

Today the Virgin Mary, the Theotokos, is born from a barren womb according to the divine plan. She is the inviolate bridal chamber of the heavenly Bridegroom. The chariot of the Word is made ready, for this is why she was preordained to be the gateway of God and truly the Mother of life. 

 

Kontakion – Martyr

Let us gather together and loudly sing to Sozon, the holy and genuine martyr, expert fighter for the faith, mystical seer of divine grace, generous provider of healing; for he is our intercessor before God. 

 

Epistle

Galatians 3:23 – 4:5

Brothers and sisters: Before the faith came we were under the constraint of the law, locked in until the faith that was coming should be revealed. In other words, the law was our monitor until Christ came to bring about our justification through faith. But now that faith is here, we are no longer in the monitor’s charge. Each one of you is a son of God because of your faith in Christ Jesus. All of you who have been baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with him. There does not exist among you Jew or Greek, slave or freeman, male or female. All are one in Christ Jesus. Furthermore, if you belong to Christ you are the descendants of Abraham, which means you inherit all that was promised. 

Brothers and sisters: as long as a designated heir is not of age his condition is no different from that of a slave, even though in name he is master of all his possessions; for he is under the supervision of guardians and administrators until the time set by his father. In the same way, while we were not yet of age we were like slaves subordinated to the elements of the world; but when the designated time had come, God sent forth his Son born of a woman, born under the law, to deliver from the law those who were subjected to it, so that we might receive our status as adopted sons. 

 

Gospel

Mark 6: 30-45

At that time the apostles returned to Jesus and reported to him all that they had done and what they had taught.  He said to them, “Come by yourselves to an out-of-the-way place and rest a little.” People were coming and going in great numbers, making it impossible for them to so much as eat. So Jesus and the apostles went off in the boat by themselves to a deserted place. People saw them leaving, and many got to know about it. People from all the towns hastened on foot to the place, arriving ahead of them. 

Upon disembarking Jesus saw a vast crowd. He pitied them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them at great length. It was now getting late and his disciples came to him with a suggestion: “This is a deserted place and it is already late. Why do you not dismiss them so that they can go to the crossroads and villages around here and buy themselves something to eat?” “You give them something to eat,” Jesus replied. At that they said, “Are we to go and spend two hundred days’ wages for bread to feed them?” “How many loaves have you?” Jesus asked. “Go and see.” When they learned the number they answered, “Five, and two fish.” He told them to make the people sit down on the green grass in groups or parties. The people took their places in hundreds and fifties, neatly arranged like flower beds. Then, taking the five loaves and two fish, Jesus raised his eyes to heaven, pronounced a blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples to distribute. He divided the two fish among all of them and they ate until they had their fill. They gathered up enough leftovers to fill twelve baskets, besides what remained of the fish. Those who had eaten the loaves numbered five thousand men. Immediately afterward Jesus insisted that his disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side toward Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Sept. 6 Memory of the Miracle of the Holy Archangel Michael at Colossae in Chionia; The Holy Martyr Eudoxius and His Companions

The commemoration of the miracle of the Holy Archangel Michael at Colossae in Chionia: the archangel Michael worked a miracle of conversion and healing in Colossae, as well as a miracle of preservation of the site from flood. It is remembered each year on this date.

The holy martyr Eudoxius and his companions Carterius, Styriacus, Tobias, Agapius and companions at Sebaste in Armenia. Under Licinius the emperor they are said to have been soldiers who persisted in the faith of Christ and who were cast into the flames in the early 4th century. 

 

Troparion – Archangel

Leaders of the heavenly armies, although we are unworthy, we always beseech you to fortify us through your prayers and to shelter us beneath the wings of your sublime glory. Watch over us who bow to you and cry out fervently: Deliver us from danger, for you are the commanders of the powers on high.

 

Troparion – Martyr

Your martyr, Eudoxius, O Lord our God, in his struggle, received an incorruptible crown from you. With your strength, he brought down the tyrants and broke the cowardly valor of demons. Through his prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls. 

 

Kontakion – Archangel

Leaders of God’s armies and ministers of divine glory, commanders of angels and guides of mortals, plead on our behalf for what we need and for great mercy; since you are the leaders of heavenly hosts. 

 

Kontakion – Martyr

You gathered wealth in heaven and showered it upon the earth. You gave bread to the hungry and received a glorious crown. You are resplendent in your confession of Christ. You were brave and died at the hands of the law; thus you have earned the wages of your work. O long-suffering Eudoxius, beg Christ to forgive our sins. 

 

Epistle

Galatians 3: 15-22

Brothers and sisters, let me give you an everyday example of a promise not being nullified by the law. You cannot add anything to a man’s will or set it aside once it is legally validated. There were promises spoken to Abraham and to his “descendants.” Scripture does not say, “and to your descendants,” as if it applied to many, but as if it applied only to one, [as Scripture says], “and to your descendant”; that is, to Christ. My point is this: a covenant formally ratified by God is not set aside as invalid by any law that came into being four hundred and thirty years later, nor is its promise nullified. Clearly, if one’s inheritance comes through the law, it is no longer conferred in virtue of the promise. Yet it was by way of promise that God granted Abraham his privilege.

What is the relevance of the law, in such case? It was given in view of transgressions and promulgated by angels, at the hands of a mediator; it was to be valid only until that descendant or offspring came to whom the promise has been given. Now there can be no mediator when only one person is involved; and God is one. Does this mean that the law is opposed to the promises [of God]? Again, unthinkable! If the law that was given was such that it could impart life, then justice would be a consequence of the law. In fact, however, Scripture has locked all things in under the constraint of sin. Why? So that the promise might be fulfilled in those who believe, in consequence of faith in Jesus Christ. 

 

Gospel

Mark 6: 7-13

At that time Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two, giving them authority over unclean spirits. He instructed them to take nothing on the journey  but a walking stick–no food, not a coin in the purses in their belts. They were, however, to wear sandals. “Do not bring a second tunic,” he said, and added: “Whatever house you find yourself in, stay there until you leave the locality. If any place will not receive you or hear you, shake its dust from your feet in testimony against them as you leave.” With that they went off, preaching the need of repentance. They expelled many demons, anointed the sick with oil, and worked many cures.

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com