Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria & All Africa

Archdiocese of Good Hope

Festal Matins & Divine Liturgy Hymns

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14 September
MARGUERITE PAIZIS
ARCHONDISSA & TEACHER BY DIVINE GRACE
GREEK ORTHODOX PATRIARCHATE OF ALEXANDRIA & ALL AFRICA
Universal Exaltation of the Holy Cross
ARCHDIOCESE OF GOOD HOPE
HOLY CHURCH OF THE DORMITION OF THE MOTHER OF GOD Also the Feast of The Commemoration of the Holy Church Fathers of the 6th
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RE-EDITED & PUBLISHED - 03 AUGUST 2018
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32 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER

 The Universal Exaltation of the Holy Cross
On 14 September we celebrate the Feast of the Universal Exaltation of the
Venerable and Life-giving Cross of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
The pagan Roman Emperors tried to completely eradicate from human
memory the Holy Sites where our Lord Jesus Christ had suffered and was
Resurrected for the Salvation of all mankind.
Emperor Hadrian (117-138) issued strict orders to bury the areas of Golgotha
and the Holy Sepulchre of our Lord under huge amounts of soil, and to erect
a temple in honour of the pagan gods, Venus and Jupiter, so that the
idolatrous worshippers would desecrate the Holy Sites with their sacrifices
and ungodly practices.
After 300 years, by Divine Providence, the Holy Sites of Golgotha, the Sepulchre
of Christ and the cave wherein the three crosses had been hidden, were
excavated and revealed to all Faithful Pilgrims.

St Heschios the Presbyter

After his victory in 312 over Maxentios, Ruler of the Western part of the Roman
Empire, and Licinios, Ruler of its Eastern part Emperor Constantine the Great
(306-337) became the sole Emperor of the vast Roman Empire.
In 313 he had issued the Edict of Milan, whereby Christianity was legalized and
persecutions against Christians in the Western half of the Roman Empire
were halted. Just as it is impossible to fight battles
Nevertheless, despite having signed the Edict of Milan, the unscrupulous co-
Emperor, Licinios, continued his obsessive persecutions against Christians, without any weapons,
and only after his conclusive defeat did the 313 Edict of Toleration extend or to swim in a great sea while fully clothed,
also to the Eastern part of the Roman Empire.
Emperor Constantine, having beheld the Heavenly Sign of the Cross with the or to live without breathing,
words “By This shall you conquer!” was able to successfully defeat his
enemies in three successive battles – yet only by the enabling Power and so too, without Humility
Grace of Almighty God. and our constant Prayers
Ardently desiring to find the Cross on which our Lord Jesus Christ had been
crucified, St Constantine sent his mother, the pious Empress Helena on a to our Lord Jesus Christ,
Holy Pilgrimage to Jerusalem, providing her with an Imperial letter to St
it is impossible for us
Makarios, Patriarch of Jerusalem.
Although St Helena was already in her declining years, she set about to master the Art of Inward Spiritual Warfare,
completing the Sacred Task with immense determination and enthusiasm.
She issued many orders to destroy pagan temples and statues in Jerusalem, or to set about it
and questioned many Faithful Christians and old Jewish families in her and pursue it skilfully
quest for the Life-giving Cross of our Saviour, which took a lot of effort and
time to gain the trust of the people, who eventually directed her to a certain and be Victorious.
elderly Judean named “Jude.”
Once he realised the sincerity and honesty of the Empress, he gave up his old
family secret and revealed where the crosses had been hidden all these
year, but upon which there had been erected an enormous pagan temple.
Immediately, St Helena instructed the people to demolish the temple and
excavate the ground until they managed to locate the cave which was
filled with bright green basil and also, to their great delight, the three cross
bars upon which Christ and the two thieves had been crucified.
In addition they found the board with the inscription that had been ordered by
Pontius Pilate as well as four nails that had pierced our Lord’s Body and
held Him on the Cross.
In order to discern on which of the three cross-bars our Saviour had been
crucified, Patriarch Makarios alternately touched the crosses to a corpse.
As soon as that of our Lord touched the dead man, he was instantly restored to
life and full health! They had ascertained which cross-bar was the Life-
giving Holy Cross of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!

2 FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 31.
 THE PRIEST BLESSES THE LOAVES Christians hastened in huge throngs to venerate the Holy Cross, beseeching St
Makarios to elevate It, so that even those far off might reverently behold It.
✞ Iisou Hriste, O Theos imon, O eflogisas PRIEST ✞ O Lord Jesus Christ our God, Joyfully and with great exaltation, the Patriarch and other Spiritual Leaders
tous penteartous en ti erimo ke ex Who Blessed the five loaves in the held up the Holy Cross of Christ, and the people, with one voice, chanted
afton pentakishiliou andras wilderness and with them fed the
ceaselessly: “Kyrie eleison!” “Lord have mercy,” and making the Sign of the
hortasas… five thousand families…
Cross, they reverently prostrated themselves in Awe and Thanksgiving.
Aftos Evlogison ke tous artous toutous, Do Thou, the same Lord, Bless these This solemn Event occurred in 326.
ton siton ton inon ke to eleon, ke loaves, the wheat, the wine and the During the Exaltation of the Life-Creating Cross several Divine Miracles
plithinon afta en ti poli, hora ke olive oil, and multiply them in this occurred such as when the shadow of the Holy Cross fell upon a grievously
kinotiti tafti, tis ikis tis prosenegkoasi city, country and Parish, in the sick woman, she was healed instantly.
ta dora tafta, ke is ton kosmon Sou homes of those who have brought The elderly Judean, Jude, and many other Judean who had partaken in the
apanta, ke tous ex afton these gifts and in all Thy World; and search and recovery of the Holy Cross, believed in Christ and joyfully
metalamvanontas pistous doulous Sanctify all Thy Faithful Servants accepted Holy Baptism.
Sou Agiason. who partake of them. Jude received the name “Kyriakos” and in due course was consecrated Bishop
✞Oti Si i O Evlogon ke Agiazon ta For it is Thee, O Christ our God, Who of Jerusalem. During the reign of EmperorJulian the Apostate (361-363), on
28 October, he accepted a Martyr’s Death for Christ.
simpanta, Hriste O Theos imon, ke Si Bless and Sanctify all things, ✞ and St Helena visited the Holy Sites of our Lord’s earthly Life, and on her orders and
tin doxan anapempomen sin to to Thee we ascribe Glory, together with the financial support of Emperor Constantine, more than 80 churches
Anarho Sou Patri, ke to Panagio ke with Thy Beginningless Father and
Agatho ke Zoopio Sou Pnevmati, nin were established including those in Bethlehem, the Birthplace of Christ, on
Thine All Holy and Good and Life- the Mount of Olives where our Lord Ascended into Heaven, and at
ke ai, ke is tous eonas ton eonon. giving Spirit, now and ever, and to Gethsemane where He had prayed throughout the dark hours before His
the ages of ages. Betrayal and subsequent Passion, and at the foot of the Mount of Olives,
Amin PEOPLE Amen where our Lady Theotokos was buried, together with Her Venerable Parents,
St Joachim and St Anna, and from whence She had been taken bodily into
Heaven.
St Helens took a piece of the Life-giving Cross and the nails with her to
Constantinople, and Emperor Constantine issued orders to build a majestic,
spacious church in honour of the Glorious Resurrection of Christ in
Jerusalem, which included under one roof His Tomb, the cave where the
Holy Cross was discovered and Golgotha, where He was Crucified.
The Great Holy Temple of the Resurrection was constructed in approximately
ten years, but sadly, St Helena did not live long enough to witness the
dedication or the Consecration of the Temple, having Reposed in Christ in
THE PRIEST KISSES ONE OF THE LOAVES BEFORE PRESENTING IT TO THE DONOR 327.
Plousii eptohefsan ke epinasan, i de Wealthy ones went bankrupt and met On 13 September 335, the Holy Church of the Resurrection was Consecrated
starvation; but all those who seek and on the following day, 14 September, the Festal celebration of “the
ekzitountes ton Kyrion, ouk
the Lord, shall never be in want of Universal Exaltation of the Venerable and Life-Creating Cross” was
elattothrisonte pantos agathou
any good thing established.
Another Event connected to the Holy Cross of our Lord is also Commemorated
on this day - Its return to Jerusalem from Persia after a fourteen year
RETURN TO THE END OF THE DIVINE LITURGY FOR captivity.
THE DISMISSAL PRAYERS & BLESSINGS
During the reign of the Byzantine Emperor, Phokas (602-610), the Persian
Emperor Khozroes II defeated the Greek army, plundered Jerusalem and
captured both the Life-Creating Cross of the Lord and the Holy Patriarch
Zachariah (609-633).
The Holy Cross remained in Persia for fourteen years until Emperor Heraclios
(610-641), by the Divine Grace of God, defeated Khozroes and concluded a
Peace Treatywith his successor - his son, Syroes - and the Holy Cross of our
Lord was returned to the Holy Church of Christ.
With great solemnity the Life-giving Cross was transferred to Jerusalem by
Emperor Heraklios who was vested in his elaborate Imperial Vestments and
Crown, accompanied by St Zacharias, the Patriarch of Jerusalem.
However, at the gates leading to Golgotha, the Emperor was unable to take
another step forward and Patriarch Zacharias explained to him that an
Angel of God was blocking his path.

30 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 3.
 Following the instructions of the Angel via the Patriarch, Emperor Heraklios
removed all his Imperial Vestments, Crown and footwear, and was able to ...Ton Agion, Endoxon Megalomartiron ...Of the Holy and Glorious Great
continue wearing only a simple cotton garment and walking barefoot – just Georgiou tou Tropeoforou, Dimitriou Martyrs: George the Victorious,
as He Who had born His Cross for the Salvation of all mankind had made tou Mirovlitou, Theodorou tou Demetrios the Myrrh-flowing,
His way to Golgotha in absolute Humility. Tirionos ke Theodorou tou Theodore Tyron and Theodore the
Stratilatou, Mina tou Thavmatourgou General, Menas the Miracle-worker,
A FAST IS OBSERVED TODAY, WHATEVER DAY OF THE WEEK IT MAY BE. ke Ieromartiron Haralambous ke and the Priest Martyrs Charalambos
Eleftheriou... and Eleftherios...
..Ton Osion ke Theoforon Pateron imon, ...Of the Holy and Righteous Ancestors
on Agion ke Dikeon Theopatoron of our Lord God Joachim and Anna...
Ioakim ke Annis…
...Tou Agiou ( . . . N A M E . . . )
ou .... ke tin ...Of Saint/s ( . . . N A M E . . . ) ) whose
mnimin epiteloumen, ke panton Sou memory we celebrate, and of all Thy
ton Agion... Saints...
Evprosdekton piison tin deisin imon… Make our Petition acceptable to Thee...
Amin P E O P L E Amen

Dorise imin tin afesin ton paraptomaton P R I E S T Grant us the Remission of our
imon… transgressions...
Amin PEOPLE Amen
STEPS
LEADING TO Skepason imas en ti Skepi ton Pterigon PRIEST Shelterus under the Shelter of
CAVE Sou… Thy Wings...
WHERE THE Amin PEOPLE Amen
CROSS-BARS,
NAILS AND Apodioxon af imon panta ehthron ke P R I E S T Banish from us ever foe and
SIGN BOARD polemion, adversary…
WERE HIDDEN
Amin PEOPLE Amen

Irinefson imon tin Zoin… PRIEST Make our Life peaceful…
Amin P E O P L E Amen

THE CHAPEL OF THE FINDING OF THE HOLY, LIFE-GIVING CROSS Kyrie Eleison imas ke ton kosmon Sou ke P R I E S T Lord, have Mercy on us and Thy
IN THE HOLY CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION, JERUSALEM Soson tas psihas imon os Agathos ke world, and Save our souls, for Thou
Filanthropos. art a Good God Who Lovest
mankind.
Amin PEOPLE Amen
THE PRIEST CENSES THE TABLE WITH THE OFFERINGS

✞Theotoke Parthene, here, PRIEST ✞Hail, O Virgin

Keharitomeni Maria, O Theotokos, Mary Full of
Kyrios meta Sou. Grace, the Lord is with
Evlogimeni Si en Ginexi, Thee; Blessed art Thou
ke Evlogimenos O among women and
Karpos tis Kilias Sou. Blessed is the Fruit of
Oti Sotira etekes ton Thy Womb; for Thou
psihon imon. hast Borne the Saviour
of our souls.
Tou Kyriou deithomen PRIEST Let us pray to the
Lord.
Kyrie eleison PEOPLE Lord have mercy

4 FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 29.
 Eti deometha ke iper tou isakouse PRIEST Again we pray that the Lord our
Kyrion ton Theon fonis tis deiseos God will hear the voice of the
imon ton amartolon, ke eleise imas. Petition of us sinners, and have
mercy on us.
Festal Matins Hymns & Readings – Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Kyrie eleison (3) PEOPLE Lord have mercy (3)
KINDLY USE THE SERVICE BOOK UNTIL THIS POINT,
Epakouson imon, O Theos, O Sotir imon PRIEST Hear us, O God, our Saviour, the THEN CAREFULLY FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS WITH REGARD TO THESE HYMNS
i elpis panton ton peraton tis gis ke Hope of all the ends of the earth,
ton en thalassi makran, ke ileos, ileos, and of those who sail the distant PSALM 117 /118
genou imin, Despota, epi tes amarties seas; and, O Master, to us sinners, be PRAISE TO GOD FOR HIS EVERLASTING MERCY
imon ke eleison imas. gracious and merciful.
Theos Kyrios ke Epefanen imin. The Lord is God, and has Appeared to
Kyrie eleison PEOPLE Lord have mercy Evlogimenos O erhomenos en us. Blessed is He Who comes in the
Eleimon gar ke Filanthropos Theos PRIEST For Thou art a Merciful God Who Onomati Kyriou! Name of the Lord!
iparhis, ke Si tin Doxan Lovest mankind, and to Thee we 1. Exomologisthe to Kyrio, oti Agathos, 1. Confess the Lord, for He is Good;
anapempomen, ✞to Patri ke to Iio ke ascribe Glory: ✞to the Father, and to oti is ton eona to Eleos Aftou! ✶ for His Mercy endures forever! ✶
to Agio Pnevmati, nin ke ai, ke is tous the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now 2. Panta ta Ethni ekiklosan me, ke to 2. All the Nations surrounded me, but
eonas ton eonon. and ever, and to the ages of ages. Onomati Kyriou inamin aftous. ✶ in the Name of the Lord I drove
Amin PEOPLE Amen 3. Para Kyriou egeneto afti, ke esti them back. ✶
Irini pasi! P R I E S T Peace be to all. Thavmasti en ofthalmis imon. ✶ 3. This is the Lord’s doing, and it is
Marvellous in our eyes. ✶
Ke meta tou pnevmatos sou P E O P L E And to thy spirit
FESTAL APOLYTIKION - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS
Tas kefalas imon to Kyrio Klinomen P R I E S T Let us bow our heads to the Lord
Soson Kyrie ton laon Sou, ke Evlogison O Lord, Save Thy People, and Bless
MAKE THE SIGN OF THE CROSS & BOWN DOWN TO GOD Thine Inheritance, granting Victory
tin Klironomian Sou, Nikas tis
over enemies unto our Rulers and
✞ Si Kyrie PEOPLE ✞ To Thee, O Lord evsevesi kata varvaron doroumenos,
through Thy Cross preserving Thine
ke to son Filatton, dia tou Stavrou Sou
✞Despota Polielee, Kyrie Iisou Hriste O PRIEST ✞O Most MercifulMaster, Lord Politefma. [3]
Estate [3]
Theos imon, Presvies tis Panahranton Jesus Christ our God, through the
Despinis imon Theotokou ke Intercessions of our Most Pure Lady S M ALL LI TANY

Aiparthenou Marias, Dinami tou Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, by FIRST FESTAL KATHISMA OF THE HOLY CROSS
Timiou ke Zoopiou Stavrou, the Power of the Precious and Life-
prostasies ton Timion Epouranion giving Cross; through the Protection Tou Stavrou Sou to xilon, proskinoumen We venerate the Wood of Thy Cross, O
Dinameon Asomaton... of the Venerable Bodiless Powers in Filanthrope, oti en afto prosilothis is Thou Who Loves mankind, for upon
Heaven... Zoi ton apanton. Paradison ineoxas It Thou - the Life of all – was nailed.
Sotir, to Pisti proselthonti Si Listi, ke O Saviour, Thou has opened paradise
Ikesies tou Timiou, Endoxon Profitou, Through the Prayers of the Venerable trifis katixiothi, omologon Si, Mnisthiti to the Thief who turned to Thee in
Prodromou ke Vaptistou Ioannou, ton and Glorious Prophet and mou Kyrie. Dexe os per ekinon ke Faith, and Thou has counted him
Agion Evdoxon ke Panevfimon Forerunner John the Baptist; of the imas, kravgaxontas. Imartomen, worthy of Blessedness when he
Apostolon, ton Agion, Evdoxon ke Holy, Glorious and All-praised pantes ti Evsplaghnia Sou, mi iperidis confessed to Thee, crying: We all
Kallinikon Martiron, ton Osion ke Apostles; of the Holy, Glorious and imas. have sinned – in Thy Merciful
Theoforon Pateron imon ... Victorious Martyrs; of our Righteous Kindness despise us not.
and God-bearing Fathers... ✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati, ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
...Ton en Agiis Pateron imon Megalon ...Of our Fathers among the Saints the ke nin ke ai ke is tous eonas ton and to the Holy Spirit, now and
Ierarhon ke Ikoumenikon Didaskalon, Great Hierarchs and Ecumenical eonon. forever, and to the ages of ages.
Vasiliou tou Megalou, Grigoriou tou Teachers: Basil the Great, Gregory
Theologou ke Ioannou tou the Theologian and John Amin Amen
Hrisostomou; Athanasiou
Kyrillou, Ioannou tou Eleimonos,
ke Chrysostom; Athanasios, Cyril and
John the Almsgiver, Patriarchs of
Tou Stavrou Sou to xilon, proskinoumen We venerate the wood of Thy Cross, O
filanthrope, oti en afto prosilothis is Thou Who Loves mankind, for upon
Patriarchon Alexandrias. Tou en Alexandria; of our Father among the It Thou - the Life of all – was nailed.
Agiis Patros imon Nikolaou, Saints, Nicholas, Bishop of Myra of Zoi ton apanton. Paradison ineoxas
Sotir, to pisti proselthonti Si Listi, ke O Saviour, Thou has opened paradise
Episkopou Myron tis Lukias, tou Lycia the Miracle-worker... to the Thief who turned to Thee in
Thavmatourgou. .. trifis katixiothi, omologon Si, Mnisthiti
mou Kyrie. Dexe os per ekinon ke Faith, and Thou has counted him
imas, kravgaxontas. Imartomen, worthy of Blessedness when he
pantes ti evsplaghnia Sou, mi iperidis confessed to Thee, crying: We all

28 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 5.
 imas. have sinned – in Thy Merciful
Kindness despise us not.
SECOND KATHISMA OF THE HOLY CROSS - TONE (6) PLAGAL 2

Monon epagi to xilon Hriste tou Stavrou No sooner had the Wood of Thy Cross
Sou, ta themelia esalevthi tou
thanatou Kyrie. On gar katepie
potho O Adis, apimese tromo. Edixas
imin to Sotirion Sou Agie, ke
Doxologoumen Se Ie Theou, eleison
imas.
✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati, ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
ke nin ke ai ke is tous eonas ton
eonon.
Amin
Amen
Monon epagi to xilon Hriste tou Stavrou No sooner had the Wood of Thy Cross
Sou, ta themelia esalevthi tou
Thanatou Kyrie. On gar katepie
potho O Adis, apimese tromo. Edixas
imin to Sotirion Sou Agie, ke
doxologoumen Se I Theou, eleison
imas.
THIRD KATHISMA OF THE HOLY CROSS - TONE (8) PLAGAL 4
Prodietipou Mystikos pale to hrono, O
Isous O tou Navi Stavrou ton tipon,
os tas hiras exetine Stavrofanos
Sotirmou. Ke esti O ilios eos ehthrous,
anilen anthistamenou Si to Theo.
Nin de outos eskotise, epi Stavrou Se
oron, Thanatou kratos lionta ke ton
Adin skilevonta.
✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati, ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
ke nin ke ai ke is tous eonas ton
eonon.
Amin
Prodietipou Mystikos pale to hrono, O
Isous O tou Navi Stavrou ton tipon,
os tas hiras exetine Stavrofanos
Sotirmou. Ke esti O ilios eos ehthrous,
anilen anthistamenou Si to Theo.
Nin de outos eskotise, epi Stavrou Se
oron, Thanatou kratos lionta ke ton
Adin skilevonta.
SMALL LITANY - FESTAL ANTIPHONS
FESTAL PROKEIMENON – HOLY CROSS – PSALM 97/98
Idosan panta ta perata tis Gis, to
Sotirion tou Theou imon.
STIHOS: Asate to Kyrio asma kenon.
been set us, O Christ our Lord, than
the foundations od Death were
shaken. For that which Hades had
swallowed eagerly, it let go tembling.
Thou hast shown us Thy Salvation, O
Holy One, and we Glorify Thee. Have
mercy on us, O Son of God!
and to the Holy Spirit, now and
forever, and to the ages of ages.
been set us, O Christ our Lord, than
the foundations od Death were
shaken. For that which Hades had
swallowed eagerly, it let go tembling.
Thou hast shown us Thy Salvation, O
Holy One, and we Glorify Thee. Have
mercy on us, O Son of God!
In times past Joshua the Son of Nun,
stretched out his arms crosswise, O
my Saviour, mystically prefiguring
the Sign of the Cross; and the sun
stood still until he had defeated the
enemy that resisted Thee, O God.
And now this same sun is darkened,
seeing Thee upon the Cross
destroying the power of Death and
despoiling Hades.
and to the Holy Spirit, now and
forever, and to the ages of ages.
Amen
In times past Joshua the Son of Nun,
stretched out his arms crosswise, O
my Saviour, mystically prefiguring
the Sign of the Cross; and the sun
stood still until he had defeated the
enemy that resisted Thee, O God.
And now this same sun is darkened,
seeing Thee upon the Cross
destroying the power of Death and
despoiling Hades.
All the regions of the Earth have seen
the Salvation of our God.
VERSE: Sing unto the Lord a new song
Artoklasia
BLESSING OF THE OFFERINGS OF BREAD [ARTO], WINE & OLIVE OIL
Eleison imas O Theos, kata to Mega PRIEST Have mercy on us, O God,
Eleos Sou, deometha Sou epakouson according to Thy Great Mercy, we
ke Eleison. pray to Thee, hear us and have
Mercy on us.
Kyrie eleison (3 PEOPLE Lord have mercy (3)
Eti deometha iper ton efsevon ke PRIEST Again we pray for all Pious and
Orthodoxon Hristianon Orthodox Christians.
Kyrie eleison PEOPLE Lord have mercy
Eti deometha iper ton Arhiepiskopou PRIEST Again we pray for our
imon ( . . . N A M E . . . ) ke pasis tis en Archbishop ( . . . N A M E . . . ) and all our
Hristo imon adelfotitos. Brothers and Sisters in Christ.
Kyrie eleison PEOPLE Lord have mercy
Eti deometha iper Eleous, Zois, irinis, PRIEST Again we pray for Mercy, Life,
Igias, Sotirias, episkepseos, Peace, Health, Salvation, Visitation,
Singhoriseos ke Afeseos ton Amartion Forgiveness and Remission of sins of
ton doulon tou Theou, ton the servants of God who celebrate
epitelounton tin Agian eortin taftin --- this Sacred Feast ----- (HE MENTIONS
-- (HE MENTIONS THEM BY NAME) ----- THEM BY NAME) -----together with
meta ton sizigon, teknon, goneon, their spouses, children, parents,
adelfon, singenon afton, igias ke brothers and sisters and relatives,
Sotirias iper afton ipomen. and let us ask for their health and
Salvation.
Kyrie eleison PEOPLE Lord have mercy
Eti deometha iper tou diafilahthine tin PRIEST Again we pray for the
Agian Ekklisian ke polin, ke Kinotita preservation of this Holy Church,
taftin, ke pasan polin ke horan, apo and this city and Parish, and every
orgis, limu, limou, sismou, city and land, from the Wrath of
katapontismou, piros, maheras, God, pestilence, famine, earthquake,
epidromis allofilon, emfiliou polemou flood fire, the sword, invasion by
ke efnidiou thanetou, ke iper tou enemies, civil war and sudden death,
ileon, efmeni ke efdialakton genesthe and that our God Who Loves
ton agathon ke filanthropon Theon mankind will be merciful, gracious
imon, tou apostrepse ke diaskedase and favourable toward us, and will
pasan orgin ke noson tin kath imon fend off and turn away all the wrath
kinoumenin, ke risasthe imas ek tis and every illness that threatens us,
epikimenis dikeas aftou apilis ke and will deliver us from His Righteous
eleise imas. Chastisement impending against us,
and will have Mercy on us.
Kyrie eleison PEOPLE Lord have mercy

6 FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 27.
 Skeli, alla is ton Stratioton loghi soldiers pierced His Side with a Idosan panta ta perata tis Gis, to
Aftou tin Plevran enixe, ke evtheos spear, and immediately Blood and
Sotirion tou Theou imon.
exilthen Ema ke Idor. Water poured out.
And he who has Witnessed has SMALL LITANY & PRAISES TO GOD

Ke O eorakos Memartirike, ke Alithini testified, and his Testimony is True - THE HOLY GOSPEL ACCORDING
aftou estin i Martyria - kakinos iden he knows that he speaks the Truth, Ipen O Kyrios: Pater, Doxason Sou to
oti Alithi legi, ina ke imis pistefsite. so that you may believe
Onama.
INSTEAD OF THE “AXION ESTIN”
Ilthen oun Foni ek tou Ouranou: Ke
Mystikos i, Theotoke, Paradisos, A Mystical Paradise, O Theotokos, Thou Edoxasa ke palin: Doxaso.
Ageorgitos Vlastisasa Hriston, if’ Ou art, who Untilled brought forth
to tou Stavrou Zoiforon en gi Christ by Whom the Life-giving Tree
pefitourgite Dendron. Di ou nin of the Cross was planted. Therefore
O oun ohlos O estos ke akousas elege
ipsoumenou, Proskinountes Afton, Se at its Exaltation on this day, we vrontin gegonene.
Megalinomen. worship Him and Thee do we Ali elegon: Angelos Afto lelaliken. Others said: An Angel spoke to Him.
Magnify.
COMMUNION HYMN
Aekrithi O Iisous ke ipen: Ou di eme aft Jesus answered and said: This Voice
ii foni gegonen, alla di imas.
Esimiothi ef imas to Fos tou Prosopou The Light of Thy Countenance, O Lord
Sou, Kyrie. Allelouia! is shown to us. Alleluia! Nin krisis esti tou kosmou toutou, nin Now
O arhon tou kosmou toutou
ekvlithisete exo.
Kago, ean ipsotho ek tis gis, pantas
elkiso pros emafton.
(Touto de elee, Simenon pio Thanato
imellen apothiniskin.)
Apekrithi Afto O ohlos: Imis ikousamen
ek tou Nomou oti O Hristo meni is ton
eona, ke pos Si legis, di ipsothine ton
Iion tou Anthropou? Tis estin outos O
iios tou Anthropou?
Ipen
St Ilias the Presbyter
oun aftis O Iisous. Eti mikron
hronon to Fos meth imon esti.
Perpatite eos to Fos ehete, ina mi
Let your words combine insight skotia imas katalavi. Ke O peripaton
and self-awareness en ti skotia ouk ide pou ipagi. Eos to
Fos ehete, pistevete is to Fos, ina Vii
so that the Peaceable Divine Logos Foto genisthe.
may not be ashamed RESURRECTION PRAYER & PSALM
to enshrine Himself in them 50/51 
FESTAL TROPARIA – HOLY CROSS
because of their brashness
and lack of restraint. ✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati
Si mou Skepi Kratea iparhis, O Trimeris Thou
Stavros tou Hristou, Agiason me ti
Dinami Sou, ina Pisti ke potho,
prokinoke Doxazo Se.
Ke nin ke Ai ke is tous eonas ton
eonon.
Amin
26 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION
All the regions of the Earth have seen
the Salvation of our God.
TO ST JOHN 12: 28 - 36
The Lord said: Father glorify Thy
Name.
A a Voice was heard from Heaven: I
have both Glorified it and will
Glorify it again.
The multitude therefore who stood and
heard, said it thundered.
came not because of Me but for
your sakes.
is the Judgement of the world:
now shall the prince of this world
be cast out.
And I, if I be lifted up from the earth,
will draw all things to Myself.
(Now this He said, signifying what
Death He should die.)
The multitude answered Him: We have
heard out of the Law, that Christ
abides forever; and how says Thou:
The Son of Man must be lifted up?
Who is this Son of Man?
Jesus therefore said to them: Yet a little
while, the Light is among you.
Walk whilst you have the Light, that
the darkness overtake you not.
And he who walks in darkness,
knows not whither he goes. Whilst
you have the Light, believe in the
Light, that you may be the Children
of Light.
CHRIST
OF
✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
and to the Holy Spirit
art my Mighty Shelter, O
Tripartite Cross of Christ. Sanctify
me by Thy Power, so that with Faith
and Love I may Adore and Glorify
Thee.
Now and ever, and to the Ages of
Ages.
Amen
OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 7.
 Si mou Skepi Kratea iparhis, O Trimeris Thou
Stavros tou Hristou, Agiason me ti
Dinami Sou, ina Pisti ke potho,
prokinoke Doxazo Se.
FESTAL IDIOMELON – EXALTATION OF THE
Eleison me, O Theos, kata to Mega
Eleos Sou ke kata to plithos ton
iktirmon sou exalipson to anomima
mou.
Stavre tou Hristou, Hristianon i Elpis,
peplanimenon Odige, himazomenon
Limin, en polemis Nikos, ikoumenis
Asfalia, asthenounton Iatre, nekron i
Anastasis, eleison imas.
PRAYERS OF SALVATION

FESTAL KONTAKION - EXALTATION
O ipsothis en to Stavro ekousios, ti
eponimo Sou keni politia, tous
iktirmous Sou Dorise, Hriste O Theos.
Evfranon en ti Dinami Sou tous
Pistous Vasilis imon, Nikas horigon
aftis kata ton polemion. Tin
simmahian ehien tin Sin, oplon Irinis,
AITTITON TROPEON.
FESTAL IKOS – EXALTATION
O meta triton Ouranon arthis en
Paradiso, ke rimata ta arrita ke thia,
a ouk exon gloses lalin, ti tis Galates
grafi, os eraste ton Grafon, enegnote
ke egnote. Emi, fisi, kavhasthe mi
genitor, plin i mi en mono to Stavro
to tou Kyriou, en O pathon, ektine ta
pathi. Afton oun ke imi veveos
kratomen tou Kyriou ton Stavron
kavhima pantes. Esti gar sotiron
imin touto to xilon, oplon irinis
AITTITON TROPEON.
8 FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION
art my Mighty Shelter, O
Tripartite Cross of Christ. Sanctify
me by Thy Power, so that with Faith
and Love I may Adore and Glorify
Thee.
HOLY CROSS - TONE (6) PLAGAL 2
Have mercy upon me, O God,
according to Thy Great Mercy;
according to the multitude of Thy
Mercies do away mine offences.
O Cross of Christ, the Hope of
Christians, the Guide of the
wayward, the Haven of the sotrm-
tossed, the Victory in wartime, the
Security of the civilized workd,
Physician for the Sick, Resurrection
of the dead: have Mercy on us!
OF THE HOLY CROSS
Lifted up of Thine own Will upon the
Cross, Thou bestows Thy Mercy
upon the New Commonwealth that
bears Thy Name. Make the Orthodox
people glad in Thy Strength, granting
them Victory over their enemies.
May Thy Cross assist them in Battle
– a Weapon of Peace and
UNCONQUERABLE ENSIGN OF
VICTORY!
OF THE HOLY CROSS
He who was caught up in the Third
Heaven to Paradise, and who heard
Unspeakable and Divine Words,
which are not lawful for human
tongue to utter, wrote to the
Galatians – as lovers of the
Sciptures, you have read his words
and know – ‘But God forbid,’ said he,
‘ that I should boast except in the
Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ...’ on
which He killed our passions by His
Passion. Let us, then, firmly hold
fast to the Cross of our Lord, the
Glory of all: for this Wood is our
Salvation – a Weapon of Peace and
UNCONQUERABLE ENSIGN OF
VICTORY!
OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER
Ke vastazon ton Stavron Aftou, exilthen And bearing His Cross, He went out to
is ton legomenon ‘Kraniou Topon,’ os a place called ‘the Place of a Skull,’
legete Evresti ‘Golgotha.’ which is called in Hebrew, ‘Golgotha.’
Opou Afton estavrosan, ke met’ Aftou There they crucified Him, and two
allous dio - entevthen ke entevthen, others with Him - one on either side,
meson de ton Iisoun. and Jesus in the middle.
Egrapse de ke titlon O Pilatos, ke ethiken Pilate wrote a title and put it on the
epi tou Stavrou. Cross.
In de gegrammon: “IISOUS O NAZOREOS, The writing was: “JESUS OF NAZARETH,
O VASILEFS TON IOUDEON.” THE KING OF THE JUDEANS”
Touton oun ton titlon polli anegnosan Then many of the Judeans read this
ton Ioudeon, oti engis in O topos tis title, for the place was near the city
poleos, opou estavrothi O Iisous. where Jesus was crucified.
Ke in gegrammenon Evresti, Ellinisti, And it was written in Hebrew, Greek
Romisti...
and Latin...
...Istikisan de para to Stavro tou Iisou i ...There stood by the Cross of Jesus His
Mitir Aftou, ke i Adelphi tis Mitros Mother, and His mother’s sister,
Aftou, Maria i tou Klopa ke Maria i Mary the wife of Cleopas, and Mary
Magdalini. Magdalene.
Iisous
oun idon tin Mitera, ke ton When Jesus therefore saw His Mother,
Mathitin parestota on Igapa, legi ti and the Disciple whom He Loved
Mitri Aftou: “Gyne: Idou O Iios standing by, He said to His Mother,
Sou!” “Woman, behold Thy son!”
Ita legi to Mathiti: “Idou, i Mitir Sou!” Then He said to the Disciple: “Behold,
Thy Mother!”
Ke ap’ ekinis tis oras elaven O Mathitis And from that hour that Disciple took
Aftin is ta idia. Her to his own home.
Meta touto idos O Iisous oti panta idi After this, Jesus, knowing that all
teteleste, ina teliothi i Grafi, legi: Things were now accomplished, that
“Dipso!” the Scripture might be fulfilled, said:
“I thirst!”
...Ote oun elave to osos O Iisous ipe: ...When Jesus had received the sour
“Teteleste!” ke klinas tin Kephalin wine, He said: “It is finished!” and
paredoke to Pnevma. bowing His Head, He gave up His
Spirit.
I oun Ioudei, ina mi mini epi tou Stavrou The Judeans did not want the bodies to
ta somata en to Savvato - epi remain on the crosses on the
Parasekvi in – (in gar Megali i Imera Sabbath - being the Preparation Day -
ekinou tou Savvatou.) (for the Sabbath was a High Day).
Irotisan ton Pilaton ina kateagosin afton They asked Pilate to have their legs
ta skeli, ke arthosin. broken, and that they might be taken
away.
Ilthon oun i Stratiote, ke tou men protou Then the Soldiers came and broke the
kateaxan ta skeli ke tou allou tou bones of the first and of the other
sistavrothentos Afto. who was crucified with Him.
Epi de ton Iisoun elthontes, os idon afton When they came to Jesus, they saw that
idi tethnikota, ou kateaxan Aftou ta He was already dead, so they did not
break His Bones, but one of the
FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 25.
 THE HOLY GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ST JOHN 19: 6 - 11; 13 – 20 SYNAXARION OF 14 SEPTEMBER
25 – 28 & 30 – 35
WE REMEMBER THE CRUCIFIXION OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR, JESUS CHRIST Ti Ι∆’ tou aftou minos, i pagkosmios On the 14th day of this month we
Ipsosis tou timiou ke zoopiou Commemorate the Universal
To kero ekino, simvoulion epiisan i At that time, the Chief Priests and Stavrou. Exaltation of the Honoured and Life-
Arhieris ke i Presviteri kata tou Iisou, Elders held a council against Jesus, giving Cross.
opos afton apolesosi. that they might destroy Him.
Ti afti imera, i kimisis tou en Agiis On this day we Commemorate the
Ke paregenonto pros Pilaton, legontes: And they went to Pilate, saying: Patros imon Ioannou Arhiepikopou falling asleep of our Father among
“Stavroson! Stavroson Afton!” “Crucify! Crucify Him!” Konstantinoupoleos tou Hrisostomou, the Saint, St John Chrysostom,
Legi aftis O Pilatos: “Lavete afton imis ke Pilate said to them: “You take Him and en tafit gr enepafsato, alla dia tin Archbishop of Constantinople; for it
Stavrosate! Ego gar ouh evrisko en crucify Him! I find no fault in Him.” eortin tou timiou Stavrou mtetethi i was on this day that he went to his
afto etian.” toutou eorti is ton Noemvrion mina. rest, but because of the Feast of the
Precious Cross, his Feast has been
Apekrithisan afto I Ioudei: “Imis Nomon The Jews answered him: “We have a transferred to the month of
ehomen, ke kata ton Nomon imon Law, and according to our Law He November.
ofili apothanin, oti eafton Iion tou ought to die, for He made Himself the
Theou epiisen.” Son of God.” Ke mnimi ti evsevestatis Vasilissis On this day we Commemorate the most
Plakillis, sizigou genomenis tou Pious Queen St Placilla, wife of
Ote oun ikousen O Pilat os touton ton When Pilate heard those words, he was megalou Vasileos Theodosiou. Emperor Theodosios the Great.
Logon, mallon efovithi, ke isilthen is all the more afraid, and went into
to Pretorian palin, ke legi to Iisou: the Praetorium again, and said to Ti afti imera, Mnimi ton en Agiis On this day we Commemorate our
“Pothen is Si?” Jesus: “From where art Thou?” Pateron imon, ton sinelthonton en ti Fathers among the Saints who
Agia ke Ikoumeniki Ekti Sinodo, epi gathered in the Hly and 6th
O de Iisous apokrisin ouk edoken afto. Jesus gave him no answer. tis Vasilias Konstantinou tou Ecumenical Council during the reign
Legi oun afto O Platos: “Emi ou lalis? Pilate said to Him: “Art Thou not Pogonaou, iiou Ioustinianou tou of Constantine IV, father of Justinian
Ouk idas oti exousian eho stavrose Se, speaking to me?! Dost Thou not defterou, tou kaloumenou II, while Sergios presided over the
ke exousian eho apolise Se?” know that I have power to crucify Rinotmitou, Sergiou tin Ekklisian Church of Constantinople and
Thee, and power to release Thee?” Konstantinoupoleos ithinontos, ke Agatho over the Church of Rome. It
Agathonos ton Romeon. I thristhi de was gathered in Trullo of the Palace
Apekrithi Iisous: “Ouk ihes exousian Jesus answered: “Thou could have no en to Troullo tou Palatiou, to called Ovatos, to put down by
oudemian kat’ Emou, i mi in si power at all against Me unless it leomeno, Oato, anathemati anathema Sergios, Pyrrhos and Peter
dedomenon Anothen. Dia touto O had been given thee from Above. kathipvlousa Sergion, ke Pirron, ke and Paul, Bishops of Constantinople,
paradidous Me si mizona amartian Therefore he who delivered Me to Petron, ke Pavlon, episkopous Macrobios of Antioch and Cyros of
ehi!” thee has the greater sin.” genomenous Konstantinoupoleos, Ma Alexandria, Honourious, Pope of
...O oun Pilatos akousas touton ton ...When Pilate therefore heard those krovion te ton Antiohias, ke Kyron Rome and Stephen and Polychronios
Logon, igage exo ton Iisoun, ke Words, he took Jesus out and sat ton Alexandrias, ke Onorion ton and those with them. This Holy
ekathisen epi tou Vimathos, is topon down in the Judgement Seat in a Romis, Stefanon te ke Polihronion, ke Council was gathered dring the reign
legomenon ‘Lithostroton’ - Evresti de place that is called “The Pavement” - tous sin atis. Itis Agia Snodos epi of Constantine IV, but the
‘Gavvatha.’ in Hebrew: “Gabbatha.” men tou dilothentos Konstantinou tou publication of the Canons came
Pogonatou sinithristhi, i de ton about during the reign of his son,
In de Paraskevi tou Pasha - Ora de osi It was the Preparation Day of the Kanonon ekdosis epi Ioustinianou tou Justinian.
Ekti. Passover - about the Sixth Hour. iiou aftou gegone.
Ke legit is Ioudeis: “Ide O Vasilefs And he said to the Judeans: “Behold Ti afti imera, Mnimi tou Agiou Martiros On this day we Commemorate the Holy
imon!” your King!” Papa. Martyr St Papas of Laranda in
I de ekravgasan: “Aron! Aron! They cried out: “Away with Him! Away Lyaonia.
Stavroson Afton!” with Him! Crucify Him!” Ti afti imera, O Agios Martis Theoklis On this day the Holy Martyr Theokle
Legi aftis O Pilatos: “Ton Vasilea imon Pilate said to them: “Shall I crucify your xifi telioute. was perfected in Holy Martyrdom by
Stavroso?” King?” the sword
Apekrithisan i Arhieris: “Ouk ehomen The Chief Priests answered: “We have
Vasilia, i mi Kesara!” no King but Caesar!” Ti afti imera, O Agios Valerianos, to On this day St Valerian the Infant was
nipion, xifi telioute. Perfected in Holy Martyrdom by the
Tote oun paredoken Afton aftis, ina So he delivered Him to them to be sword.
stavrothi. crucified.
O Agios Neos Osiomartis Makarios, O en On this day the Holy New Righteous
Parelavon de ton Iisou, ke apigagon. They took Jesus and led Him away. Thessaloniki Martirisas kata to 1527, Martyr Makarios, Disciple of St
O ke Mathitis hrimatisas tou Niphon, Patriarch of Constantinople,

24 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 9.
 Patriarhou Konstantinoupoleos
Nifonos, xifi telioute.
Tes afton Agies presvies, O Theos,
eleison imas.
Amin
FESTAL KATAVASIA
ODI 1 Stavron haraxas Mosis ep evthias,
Ravdon tin Erthron dieteme to Israil
pezefsanti. Tin de epistrepitikos
Farao tis armasi krotisas inosen, ep
evrous diagrapas to aittiton oplon.
Dio Hristo asomen, to Theo imon, oti
Dedoxaste.
ODI 3 Ravdos is tipon tou Mystiriou
paralamvanete. To vlasto gar
prokrini ton ireas. Ti stirevousi de
proin Ekklisia nin exinithise xilon
Stavrou is Kratos ke Stereoma.
ODI 4 Isakikoa, Kyrie, tis Ikonomias Sou
to mystirion, katenoisa ta Erga Sou
ke edoxasa Sou tin Theotita.
ODI 5 O Trismakariston xilon! En O
etathi Hristos, O Vasilefs ke Kyrios.
Di ou peptoken O xilo apatisas, to en
si deleasthis Theo to prospagenti
Sarki, to parehonti tin Irinin tes
psihes imon.
ODI 6 Notiou thiros en splaghnis
palamas Ionas stavroidos
diekpetasas, to sotirion pathos
prodietipou safos. Othen triimeros
ekdis, tin iperkosmion Anastasin
ipexografise tou Sarki prospagentos
Hristou tou Theou ke Triimero
egersi ton komon Fotisantos.
ODI 7 Eknoon prostagma tirannou
dissevous laous eklonise, pneon apilis
ke disfimias Theostigous. Omos Tris
Pedas ouk edimatose thimos thiriodis,
ou pir vromion. All’ antihounti
drosovolo pnevmati piri sinontes
10 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N
was beheaded in Thessalonika in
1527
By their Holy Intercessions, O Christ
God, have mercy on us.
Amen
OF THE HOLY CROSS - TONE 3
ODE 1 Inscribing the Invincible Weapon
of the Cross upon the waters, Moses
marked a straight line before him
with his Staff and divided the Red
Sea, opening a path for Israel who
went over dry-shod. Then he
marked a second line across the
waters and united them in one,
overwhelming the chariots of
Pharaoh. Therefore let u us to Christ
our God, for He is Glorified!
ODE 3 The Rod of Aaron is an Image of
this Mystery, for when it budded it
showed who should be Priest. So in
the Church, that once was barren,
the Wood of the Cross has now
blossomed, filling Her with Strength
and Steadfastness.
ODE 4 I
have heard, O Lord, of the
Mystery of Thy Dispensation, and
have contemplated Thy Works and
have Glorified Thy Godhead.
ODE 5 O Thrice-Blessed Tree, on which
Christ our King and Lord was
stretched! Through Thee the
beguiler fell, who tempted mankind
with the Tree. He was caught in the
trap set by God, Who was crucified
upon Thee in the Flesh, granting
Peace to our souls.
O D E 6 Jonah stretched out his hands in
the form of a Cross within the belly
of the sea monster, plainly
prefiguring the Redeeming Passion.
Cast out from thence after three
days, he foreshadowed the
Marvellous Resurrection of Christ
our God Who was crucified in the
Flesh and Enlightened the world by
His Resurrection on the Third Day.
ODE 7 The senseless Decree of the
wicked tyrant, breathing forth
threats and blasphemy hateful to
God, confused the people. Yet
neither the fury of wild beasts nor
the roaring of the fire could frighten
OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER
INSTEAD OF THE TRISAGION HYMN
Ton Stavron Sou Proskinoumen Despota, We Venerate Thy Cross, O Master: and
ke tin Agian Sou Anastsin we Glorify Thy Resurrection.(3)
Doxazomen.(3)
✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati, ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
ke nin ke ai ke is tous eonas ton and to the Holy Spirit, now and
eonon. forever, and to the ages of ages.
Amin Amen
Ke tin Agian Sou Anastasin Doxazomen And we Glorify Thy Holy Resurrection
Dynamis! With Strength!
Ton Stavron Sou Proskinoumen Despota, We Venerate Thy Cross, O Master: and
ke tin Agian Sou Anastasin we Glorify Thy Resurrection
Doxazomen
FESTAL PROKEIMENON – EXALTATION – PSALM 98/99
TONE (7) VARYS/GRAVE
✞Ipsoute Kyrion ton Theon imon, ke ✞Exalt the Lord our God: and Worship
Proskinite to ipopodio ton Podon at His Footstool, for He is Holy!
Aftou, Oti Agios Esti!
O Kyrios evasilefsen, orgizesthosan lai. The Lord reigneth: let the people rage...
THE FIRST EPISTLE OF ST PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS 1 : 18 – 24
THE MESSAGE OF THE CROSS IF THE POWER OF GOD.
Adelphi: O Logos O tou Stavrou tis men Brethren: the Word of the Cross is
apollimenis moria esti - tis de ‘foolishness’ to those who are
sozomenis imin, Dynamis Theou esti. perishing - to us who are being
Saved, it is the Power of God.
Gegrapte gar: “Apolo tin Sofian ton It is written: “I will destroy the wisdom
Sofon, ke tin sinesin ton sineton of the wise, and bring to nothing
athetiso.” the understanding of the prudent.”
Pou Sofos? Pou Grammatefs? Pou Where are the wise? Where are the
siszititis tou eonos toutou? Ouhi Scribes? Where are the disputers of
emoranen O Theos tin Sofian tou this age? Has not God made foolish
kosmou toutou? the wisdom of this world?
Epidi gar, en ti Sofia tou Theou - ouk Since, in the Wisdom of God - the world
egno O kosmos dia tis Sofias ton did not know God through the
Theon - edokisen O Theos dia tis Wisdom of God - it pleased God
morias tou Kirigmatos Sose tous through the ‘foolishness’ of
Pistevontas. Preaching to Save those who believe.
Epidi ke Ioudei Simion etousi ke Ellines Judeans request Signs, and Hellenes
Sofian zitousin - imis de kirissomen
seek Wisdom - we preach Christ
Hriston Estavromenon - Ioudeis men Crucified: to the Judeans
skandalon, Ellisi de morian, aftis de
scandalous, to the Hellenes
tis Klitis, Ioudeis te ke Ellisi, Hriston
foolishness - to those who are
Theou Dinamin ke Theou Sofian. Called, both Judeans and Hellenes,
Christ the Power of God and the
Wisdom of God.
FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 23.
 THIRD FESTAL ANTIPHON OF THE EXALTATION - TONE 1 epsalon. O iperimnitos ton Pateron the three Youths: but standing
✞ Soson Kyrie ton laon Sou ke ✞ O Lord, Save Thy people, and Bless ke imon Theos, Evlogitos I! together in the flames, fanned by the
Wind that brought refreshment as
Evlogison tin Klironomian Sou, Thine Inheritance, granting to our
Dew, they sang: Blessed art Thou
Nikas tis Vasilevsi kata God-fearing Rulers Victory over all
and praised above all, o our God and
varvaron doroumenos ke to Son adversaries, and by Thy Cross
the God of our Fathers!
filatton dia tou Stavrou Sou preserving Thine Estate. ODI 8
ODE 8
Politevma
✞Enoumen, Evlogoumen ke
✞We Praise, we Bless and we Worship
1. O Kyrios evasilefsen - orgizesthosan 1. The Lord reigns - let the people Proskinoumen ton Kyrion! the Lord!
lai. ✶ rage... ✶
Evlogite, Pedes tis Triados isarithmi,
Bless, O Youths, equal in number to the
2. O kathimenos epi ton Heroubim - 2. The Lord is seated upon the dimiourgon Patera Theon. Imnite
Trinity, the Father and Creator; sing
salefthito i Gi... ✶ Cherubim – let the Earth be ton sigkatavanta Logon ke to pir is
the praises of the Word Who
shaken... * droson metapiisanta. Ke
descended and changed the fire to
3. Kyrios en Sion Megas ke Ipsilos Estin 3. The Lord is Great in Zion: and is iperipfoute to pasi Zoin parehon
Dew; and exalt above all forever the
Pnevma Panagion is tou eonas
epi pantas tous laous. Ke to Exalted above all people, and Most Holy Spirit Who grants Life to
Onoma Kyriou epikalesome.. ✶ upon the Name of the Lord they all!
call... ✶ THE FESTAL MAGNIFICAT – EXALTATION OF HOLY CROSS

4. Exomologisasthosan to Onomati Sou 4. Let them Confess Thy Great Name:

to Megalo, oti foveron ke Aion for it is Awesome and Holy. And
esti. Ke to Onoma Kyriou upon the Name of the Lord they
epikalesome! ✶ must call! ✶
SMALL ENTRANCE HYMNS
ISODIKON – TONE 2
✞ Ipsoute Kyrion ton Theon imon, ke ✞Exalt the Lord our God: and Worship
Proskinite to ipopodio ton Podon at His Footstool, for He is Holy!
Aftou, Oti Agios Esti!
Soson imas Iie Theo, O SARKI Save us, O Son of God, CRUCIFIED IN
STAVROTHIS, psallontas Si, THE FLESH, who sing to Thee:
Allilouia! Alleluia!
FESTAL APOLYTIKION – EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – TONE 1
Soson Kyrie ton laon Sou ke Evlogison O Lord, Save Thy people, and Bless
tin Klironomian Sou, Nikas tis Thine Inheritance, granting to our
Vasilevsi kata varvaron God-fearing Rulers Victory over all
doroumenos ke to Son Filatton dia adversaries, and by Thy Cross
tou Stavrou Sou Politevma. preserving Thine Estate.
FESTAL KONTAKION – EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS
O ipsothis en to Stavro ekousios, ti Lifted up of Thine own Will upon the
eponimo Sou keni politia, tous Cross, Thou bestows Thy Mercy
iktirmous Sou Dorise, Hriste O Theos. upon the New Commonwealth that
Evfranon en ti Dinami Sou tous bears Thy Name. Make the Orthodox
Pistous Vasilis imon, Nikas horigon people glad in Thy Strength, granting
aftis kata ton polemion. Tin them Victory over their enemies.
simmahian ehien tin Sin, oplon Irinis, May Thy Cross assist them in Battle
AITTITON TROPEON. – a Weapon of Peace and
UNCONQUERABLE ENSIGN OF
VICTORY!
ODE 9 – FIRST CANON - THE HIERMOS - TONE (8) PLAGAL 4
Mystikos i Theotoke Paradisos, O Theotokos, Thou art a Mystical
Ageorgitos Vlastisasa Hriston, ef ou Paradise, Who untilled brought forth
to tou Stavrou Zoiforon en gi Christ. He has planted upon earth
pefitourgite Dendron. Di ou nin the Life-giving Tree of the Cross.
ipsoumenou, proskinountes Afton, Se Therefore, at its Exaltation on this
Megalinomen day, we worship Him and Thee we
magnify!
TROPARIA OF THE EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS
 Stavre Panagie tou Hristou, skepe  All Holy Cross of Christ, guard us
imas ti Dinami Sou! by Thy Power!
Agallestho ta drimou xila simpanta, Let all the trees of the woods rejoice,
Agiasthisis tis fiseos afton, if’ ou per for their nature is Sanctified by
ex arhis, efitevthi Hristou, tanithentos Christ Who planted them in the
en xilo di ou nin ipsoumenou, beginning and Who was outstretched
proskinoumen afton ke upon the Tree. At its Exaltation on
megalinomen! this day, we worship Him and Thee
we magnify!
 Stavre Panagie tou Hristou, skepe  All Holy Cross of Christ, guard us
imas ti Dinami Sou! by Thy Power!
Ieron igerthi keras Theofrosi, tis kefalis The Cross is raised up as a Sacred Horn
ton apanton O Stavros, en o of Strength to all God’s people, upon
amartolon nooumenon, sinthlonte ta whose forehead it is marked.
kerata panta. Di Si nin ipsoumenou, Thereby are all the horns of spiritual
proskinoumen Afton ke powers of wickedness crushed. At
Megalinomen! its Exaltation on this day, we
worship Him and Thee we magnify!
ODE 9 – SECOND CANON- THE HIERMOS - TONE (8) PLAGAL 4
O dia broseos tou xilou, to geni Today the Death that came to mankind
prosgenomenos Thanatos, dia through eating of the Tree, is made
Stavrou katirgite simeron. Tis gar of no effect through the Cross. For
promitoros i pangenis katara the Curse of our Mother Eve that fell
dialelite, to vlasto tis agnis upon all mankind is destroyed by
Theomitoros. In pase e Dinamis ton the Fruit of the Pure Mother of God,

22 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 11.
 Ouranon Megalinousin! Whom all the Powers of Heaven
magnify!
FESTAL TROPARIA – EXALTATION OF HOLY CROSS
 Stavre Panagie tou Hristou, skepe  All Holy Cross of Christ, guard us
imas ti Dinami Sou! by Thy Power! Festal Divine Liturgy Hymns & Readings
Mi tin pikrian tin tou xilou, easas Not suffering the deadly bitterness of
aneresimon Kyrie, dia Stavrou tlios the Tree still to remain, Thou hast Universal Exaltation of the Life-giving Holy Cross
exilipsas. Othen ke xilon elise pote, utterly destroyed it through the
pikrian idaton Merras, protipoun tou Cross. In like maner of old did KINDLY USE THE SERVICE BOOK UNTIL THIS POINT,
THEN CAREFULLY FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS WITH REGARD TO THESE HYMNS
Stavrou tin energian. In pase e Wood once destroy the bitterness of
Dinamis, ton Ouranon Megalinousin. the Waters of Marah, prefiguring the
Strength of the Cross that all the FIRST FESTAL ANTIPHON OF THE EXALTATION - TONE 2
Powers of Heaven magnify! O
1. Theos Mou proshes Mi, ina ti 1. O my God, My God: look upon me!
✞ Doxa Patri, ke Io, ke Agio Pnevmati ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son, egkatelipes Me? Why hast Thou forsaken Me?
and to the Holy Spirit
✞Tes Presvies tis Theotokou, Soter, ✞Through the Intercessions of the
Adialiptos Vaptomenous, to zofo tou Through the Cross, O Lord, today Soson imas. Theotokos, O Saviour, Save us.
propatoros Kyrie, dia Stavrou Thou hast raised us up again, who
animpsosas simeron. Os gar ti plani were plunged continually in the
2. Makran apo tis Sotirias mou i logi 2. The Words of my transgressions are
ton paraptomaton mou.✶ far from my Salvation ✶
agan akratos, i fisis prokatinehthri, gloom of our Forefather.
pagkliros imas palin anorthose, to Unrestrained greed thrust down our 3. O Theos mou kekraxome imeras, ke 3. O my God: I cry out each day, but
Fos to tou Stavrou Sou. On i Pisti nature into error; but not we have ouk isakousi.✶ Thou hearest me not. ✶
Megalinomen! been Restored to our full Inheritance
by the Light of Thy Cross, which we,
4. Si de en Agio katikis - O epenos tou 4. Thou dwellest in the Sanctuary - the
Israil.✶ Praise of Israel ✶
the Faithful, magnify!
Ke nin ke Ai ke is tous eonas ton Now and ever, and to the Ages of
✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati, ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
ke nin ke ai ke is tous eonas ton and to the Holy Spirit, now and
eonon. ages.
eonon. forever, and to the ages of ages.
Amin. Amen Amin ✶ Amen ✶
Ina ton tipon ipodixis, to kosmo To show the world, O Lord, the Figure SECOND FESTAL ANTIPHON OF THE EXALTATION - TONE 2
proskinoumenon, Kyrie, ton tou of the Cross, reverenced in all places
Stavrou en pasin os endoxon, en as Most Glorious, Thou hast formed 1. Ina ti O Theos aposo is telos? 1. O God, why hast Thou cut us off
Ourano emorfosas, Foti apleto it in the sky, shining with boundless forever?
iglaismenon, Basili panoplian aittiton. Light, Unconquerable Armour for the ✞ Soson imas Iie Theou, O EN SARKI ✞ Save us,. O Son of God, CRUCIFIED
In pase e Dinamis, ton Ouranon King. This Holy Cross all the Powers STAVROTHIS psallontas Si: IN THE FLESH. who sing to Thee:
Megalinousin. of Heaven Magnify! Allilouia! Alleluia
KATAVASIA 9TH ODE - EXALTATION – TONE (8) PLAGAL 4
OF THE
2. Mnisthiti tis Sinagogis Sou, is ektiso 2. Remember Thy Congregation, which
Mystikos is, Theotoke, Paradisos, O Theotokos, Thou art a Mystical ap arhis.✶ Thou acquired since the
ageorgitos vlastisasa Hriston, if ou to Paradise, Who untilled brought forth beginning... ✶
tou Stavrou Zoiforon en gi Christ. He has planted upon earth
pefitourgite Dendron. Di ou nin the Life-giving Tree of the Cross.
3. Elitroso Ravdon Klironomias Sou - 3. Thou Redeemed the Rod of Thine
ipoumenou Proskinountes Afton, Se Therefore, at its Exaltation on this Oros Sion touto, O kateskinosas Inheriance - this Mount Zion
Megalinomen. day, we worship Him and Thee we en afto. ✶ wherein Thou encamped... ✶
magnify! God
4. O de Theos Vasilefs imon pro eonon 4. is our King before all ages -
O dia vroseos tou xilou, to geni Today Death that came to mankind – irgasato Sotirian en meso tis working Salvation in the midst of
prosgenomenos Thanatos, dia through eating of the Tree, is made Gis...✶ the Earth... ✶
of no effect through the Cross. For
Stavrou katirgite simeron. Tis gar
Promitoros i pangenis katara the Curse of our Mother Eve that fell ✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati, ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
upon all mankind is destroyed by ke nin ke ai ke is tous eonas ton and to the Holy Spirit, now and
dialelite, to vlasto tis Agnis
the Fruit of the Pure Mother of God, eonon. forever, and to the ages of ages.
Theomitoros. In pase e Dinamis ton
Ouranon Megalinousin! Whom all the Powers of Heaven
Amin Amen
magnify!
SMALL LITANY & PRAISES TO THE
LORD

12 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 21.
 katangeli anipsosin, di is to imeteron
firama, ek tis is gin kataptoseos, is
Ouranous politevete. Dio evharistos
Voisomen. Kyrie, O Ipsothis en Afto,
ke di Aftou sinipsosas imas, tis
Ouraniou Haras Axioson tous
imnountas Se.
FESTAL IDIOMELA - EXALTATION
O tetraperatos kosmos simeron
Agiazete, tou tetramerous
ipsoumenou Sou Stavrou, Hriste O
Theos imon, ke to keras ton Piston,
sinipsoute Vasileon imon, en afto ton
dismenon sintrivonton ta kerata.
Megas i Kyrie, ke Thavmastos en tis
Ergis Sou: Doxa Si!
FESTAL IDIOMELA - EXALTATION
Ton Profiton e fone, to Xilon to Agion
prokatingilan, di out is arheas
ileftherothis kataras, tis tou
Thanatou O Adam. I ktisis simeron,
ipsoumenou toutou, sinipsi tin fonin,
to ek Theou etoumeni plousion Eleos.
All O Monos en Elei ametritos
Despota, ilasmos genou imin, ke
Soson tas psihas imon!.
✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati, ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
ke nin ke ai ke is tous eonas ton
eonon.
Amin
FESTAL IDIOMELA - EXALTATION
I foni tou Profitou Sou Moiseos O Theos, O
peplirote i legousa: Opsesthe tin Zoin
imon kremamenin, apenanti ton
ofthalmon imon. Simeron Stavros
ipsoute, ke kosmos ek planis
ileftherote. Simeron tou Hristou i
Anastasis egkenizete, k eta perata tis
gis Agallonte, en kimvalis Davitikis,
imnon Si prosferonta ke legonta.
Irgaso Sotirian en meso tis gis O
theos, Stavron ke tin Anastasin, di on
imas esosas, Agathe ke Filanthrope.
Pantodiname Kyrie: Doxa Si!
20 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N
by Priestly Hands, It proclaims His
Ascension into Heaven whereby our
nature, lifted from its fallen state on
earth, is made Citizen of Heaven.
Therefore, let us cry in Thanksgiving:
O Lord, Who was raised upon the
Cross: Thou hast raised us with
Thyself; count worthy of the Joy of
Heaven, those who praise Thee.
OF THE HOLY CROSS -TONE (6) PLAGAL 2
The four ends of the earth, O Christ our
God, are Sanctified today by the
Exaltation of Thy Cross with its four
arms; and with it is the Horn of Thy
Faithful people exalted, who thereby
dash in pieces the horns of their
adversaries. Great art Thou, O Lord,
and marvellous in Thy Works: Glory
to Thee!
OF THE HOLY CROSS-TONE (6) PLAGAL 2
The sayings of the Prophets foretold
the Holy Wood, whereby Adam was
set free from the ancient Curse of
Death. And today, at the Exaltation
of the Cross, all Creation raises its
voice, beseeching God’s plenteous
Mercy. O Master, Who alone art
boundless in Compassion: be our
Atonement and Save our souls!
and to the Holy Spirit, now and
forever, and to the ages of ages.
Amen
OF THE HOLY CROSS - TONE (8) PLAGAL 4
God, fulfilled are the Words of Thy
prophet Moses, saying; ‘You shall see
your Life hang before your eyes!’
Today the Cross is exalted and the
world is set free from error. Today
the Church of Christ’s Resurrection
celebrates its Dedication, and the
ends of the earth rejoice greatly;
with cymbals like David, they offer
Thee their songs, saying: O God,
Thou has worked Salvation in the
midst of the earth through the Cross
and the Resurrection, whereby Thou
has Saved us, O Thou Who art Good
and Lovest mankind: Glory to Thee,
O All Powerful Lord!
OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER
FESTAL EXAPOSTILARION OF THE
Stavros O filax pasis tis ikoumenis!
Stavros i Oreotis tis Ekklisias! Stavros
Vsileon to Krateoma! Stavros Piston
to Stirigma! Stavros Angelon i Doxa,
ke ton demonon to travma! [2]
✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati, ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
ke nin ke ai ke is tous eonas ton
eonon.
Amin
Stavros Ipsoute simeron, ke kosmos
agiazete. O gar Patri sinedrevon, ke
Pnevmati to Agio en touto hiras
aplosas, ton kosmon olon ilkisas, pros
sin Hriste epignosin. Tous oun is Se
pepithots, Thias Axioson Doxis.
LAUDS: THE PRAISES TO GOD - PSALM 148
ALL CREATION PRAISES THE LORD OUR GOD
Pasa pnoi enesato ton Kyrion. Enite
ton Kyrion ek ton Ouranon. Enite
Afton en tis Ipsistis. Si prepi imnos
to Theo.
Enite Afton, pantes i Angelli Aftou.
Enite Afton, pase e Dinamis Aftou.
Si prepi imnos to Theo.
FESTAL STIHERA PROSOMIA OF THE
Enite Afton epi tes Dinasties Afton.
Enite Afton kata to plithos tis
Megalosinis Aftou.
O tou Paradoxou Thavmatos! To
Zoiforon fiton, O Stavros O Panagios,
is ipsos eromenos, emfanizete
simeron. Doxologousi panta ta
perata. Ekdimatounte demones
apantes. O ion Dorima, tis vrotis
kehariste! Di ou Hriste, Soson tas
psihas imon, os monos Efsplaghnos.
Enite Afton en iho salpingos. Enite
Afton en psaltirio ke kithara.
O tou paradox Thavmatos! To Zoiforon
fiton, O Stavros O Panagios, is ipsos
eromenos,emanizete simeron.
Doxologousi panta ta perata.
Ekdimatounte demones apantes. O
ion Dorima, tis vrotis kehariste! Di
FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION
HOLY CROSS – TONE 2
The Cross is the Guardian of the whole
earth! The Cross is the Beauty of the
Church! The Cross is the Strength of
Kings! The Cross is the Support of
the Faithful! The Cross is the Glory
of Angels and the Wonder of
demons! (2)
and to the Holy Spirit, now and
forever, and to the ages of ages.
Amen
Today the Cross is Exalted and the
world is Sanctified! For Thou Who
art Enthroned with the Father and
the Holy Spirit has spread Thine
Arms upon It, and drawn the world
to Knowledge of Thee, O Christ.
Make worthy of Divine Glory those
who have put their trust in Thee!
Let everything that has breath praise
the Lord. Praise the Lord from the
Heavens; praise Him in the Highest.
To Thee praise is due, O God.
Praise Him, all His Angels; praise Him,
all His Powers. To Thee praise is
due, O God.
HOLY CROSS – TONE PLAGAL 4
Praise Him for His Mighty Acts;praise
Him according to the greatness of
His Majesty.
O Marvellous Wonder! The Most Holy
Cross – the Life-giving Tree – is lifted
up on high today and shown to the
world. All the ends of the Earth give
glory, all the demons are afraid.
How great a Gift is here bestowed on
mortal mankind! Through Thy Cross
Save our souls, O Christ: Thou Who
alone art Compassionate.
Praise Him with the sound of the
trumpet; praise Him with lute and
harp.
O Marvellous Wonder! The Most Holy
Cross – the Life-giving Tree – is lifted
up on high today and shown to the
world. All the ends of the Earth give
Glory, all the demons are afraid.
How great a Gift is here bestowed on
OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 13.
 ou Hriste, Soson tas psihas imon, os
Monos Efsplaghnos.
Enite Afton en timpano ke horo.
Afton en hordes ke organo.
O tou Paradoxou Thavmatos! Os votrin
pliri Zois, O Vastasas ton ipsiston, apo
gis ipsoumenos, Stavrosorate
simeron. Diou ros Theon pantes
ilkisthime, ke katepothi is telos
Thanatos. O xilon ahranton! If ou
apolavomen tis en Edem, Athanatou
vroseos, Hriston Doxazontes.
Enite Afton en kimvalis evihis. Enite
Afton en kimvalis alalagmou.
Pasa pnoi inesato ton Kyrion.
O tou Paradoxou Thavmatos! Evros ke
mikos Stavrou, Ouranou isostasion,
oti thia Hariti, Agiazi ta simpanta.
En touto ethni varvara ittinte. En
touto skiptra ankaton idraste. O Cross
Thias Klimakos! Di is anatrehomen i
Ouranous, ipsountes en asmasi,
Hriston ton Kyrion.
✞ Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati, ✞ Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
ke nin ke ai ke is tous eonas ton
eonon.
Amin
FESTAL DOXASTIKON – EXALTATION
Simeron proerhete O Stavros tou Kyriou, Today the Cross of our Lord goes forth,
ke Pisti isdehone Afton ek pothou, ke
lamvanousin iamata psihis t eke
somatos, ke pasis malakias. Afton
aspasometha ti Hara ke to Fovo.
Fovo dia tin amartian, os anaxii
ontes, Hara de dia tin Sotirian, in
parehehi to kosmo, O en Afto
Prospagis Hristos O Kyrios, O ehon to
Mega Eleos.
G RE AT D OX OL OGY
Soson imas.
14 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N
mortal mankind! Through Thy Cross
Save our souls, O Christ: Thou Who
alone art Compassionate.
Enite Praise Him with timbrel and dance;
praise Him with strings and flute.
O Marvellous Wonder! The Cross that
carried the Mosty High as a Cluster
of Grapes Full of Life is beheld today
exalted high above the earth!
Through the Cross we all are drawn
to God, and Death has been forever
swallowed up! O Undefiled Wood!
Through Thee we enjoy the Immortal
Fruit of Eden, as we Glorify Christ!
Praise Him with tuneful cymbals;
praise Him with loud cymbals. Let
everything that has breath praise
the Lord.
O Marvellous Wonder! The length and
breadth of the Cross is equal to the
Heavens, for by Divine Grace it
Sanctifies the whole world. By the
barbarian nations are
conquered, by the Cross the Sceptres
of Kings are confirmed. O Divine
Ladder! By Thee we ascend to
Heaven, exalting Christ our Lord in
song!
and to the Holy Spirit, now and
forever, and to the ages of ages.
Amen
OF THE HOLY CROSS - TONE (6) PLAGAL 2
and the Faithful welcome It with
Love; and they receive Healing of
soul and body, and of every
weakness. Let us kiss It with Joy and
Fear : with Fear, for we are unworthy
because of sin; with Joy, for upon It
Christ our Lord was in His Great
Mercy Crucified, Who grants the
world Salvation!
OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER
FESTAL IDIOMELA OF THE EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS
ST LEO THE EMPEROR - TONE 2
Defte Pisti, to Zoopion xilon Come, ye Faithful, and let us venerate
proskinisomen, en O Hristos O the Life-giving Wood, on which
Basilefs tis Doxis, ekousios hiras Christ, the King of Glory, stretched
ektinas, ipsosen imas is tin arhean out His Hands of His own Will. To
makariotita, ous prin O ehthros, di the Ancient Blessedness, He raised
idonis silisas, exoristous Theou us up, whom the enemy had before
pepiike. Defte Pisti xilon despoiled through pleasure, making
proskinisomen, di ou ixiothimen ton us exiles far from God. Come, ye
aoraton ehthron sintrivin tas haras. Faithful, and let us Venerate the
Defte pase e Patrie ton ethnon, ton Wood, through which we have been
Stavron tou Kyriou imnis Timisomen. counted worthy to crush the heads
Heris Stavre tou pesontos Adam i of our invisible enemies. Come, all
telia litrosis. En Si i Pistotati Vasilis ye kindred of the Nations, and let us
imon kavhonte, os ti si Dinami, honour in Hymns the fallen Adam.
Ismailitin laon Krateos ipotattontes. With Thee as their boast, our
Se nin meta Fovou Hristiani Faithful Kingd laid low by Thy Might
aspazomeni, ton en Si prospagenta the people of Ismael. We Christians
Theon Doxazomen legontes. Kyrie, O kiss Thee now with Awe, and
en Afto Stavrothis, eleison imas, os glorifying God Who was nailed upon
Agathos ke Filanthropos. Thee, we cry: O Lord, Who in the
Cross was crucified: have Mercy on
us, for Thou art Good and Lovest
mankind!
FESTAL IDIOMELA-EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS-TONE (5) PLAGAL 1
Defte lai, to Paradoxon Thavma Come, ye people, and looking on this
kathorontes, tou Stavrou tin Dinamin Marvellous Wonder, let us venerated
proskinisomen. Oti xilon en paradise the Might of the Cross. For a Tree
Thanaton evlastise. To de, tin Zoin
Exinthisen, anamartiton ehon
put forth the Fruit of Death in
Paradise; but Life is the Blossom of
prosilomenon ton Kyrion, ex ou panta this Tree on which the sinless Lord
ta Ethni, aftharsian trigontes was nailed. Reaping Incorruption
kravgazomen. O dia Stavrou from It, all the Nations cry: O Thou
Thanaton katargisas, ke imas Who through the Cross has laid
eleftherosas, Doxa Si! Death low and set us free: Glory to
Thee!
FESTAL IDIOMELA - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS-TONE (5) PLAGAL 1
I foni ton profiton Sou, Iseou ke David, Fulfilled are the words of Thy Prophets,
eplirothi O Theos, i legousa: Ixousi Isaiah and David, O God, saying: All
panta ta Ethni Kyrie, ke the Nations shall come and worship
proskinisousin enopion Sou. Idou gar before Thee, O Lord. For, behold: O
O laos, os tis sis Agathe Haritos, Thou Who art Good, the people –
peplirote, en tes ailes Sou Ierousalim. filled with Thy Grace in Thy courts
O Stavron ipominas iper imon, ke ti in Jerusalem. O Thou Who has
Anastasi Sou Zoopion, filaxon ke endured the Cross for us and has
brought us Life by Thy Resurrection,
Guard us and Save us!
FESTAL IDIOMELA - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS-TONE (6) PLAGAL 2
Simeron to fiton tis Zois, ek ton tis gis Today is lifted up from the hidden
aditon anistamenon, tou en afto places of the earth the Tree of Life
pagentos Hristou, pistoute tin on which Christ was nailed,
Anastasin. Ke anipsoumenon hersin confirming our Faith in the
Ieres, tin aftou pros Ouranous Resurrection. And exalted on High
FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 19.
 THE PRIEST STANDS TO THE LEFT SIDE OF THE TABLE, FACING SOUTH, HE SAYS ALOUD:

Eti deometha iper pasis psihis Hristianon PRIEST Again we pray for the souls of all
Orthodoxon, igias, ke Sotirias, ke Orthodox Christians, for their health
afeseos ton amartion afton... and their Salvation, and the
Remission of sins...
Kyrie eleison (100) CHOIR: Lord have mercy (100)
WHILE THE CHOIR SINGS THE FOURTH
FOURTH TIME.
100 “KYRIE ELEISON” THE PRIEST RAISES THE CROSS A The Exaltation/ Elevation
FINALLY, HE RETURNS TO THE FRONT OF THE TABLE, FACING TOWARDS THE EAST AGAIN: of the Holy Life-giving Cross
Eti deometha iper panton ton PRIEST Again, we pray for all who serve
diakonounton ke diakonisanton en ti or have served in this Holy Church,
Agia Moni tafti igias, Sotirias, ke for their health and Salvation, and
afeseos ton amartion afton... Remission of sins...
Kyrie eleison (100) CHOIR: Lord have mercy (100)
THE CHOIR SINGS THE FIFTH AND FINAL 100 KYRIE ELEISON WHILE THE PRIEST ELEVATES THE
HOLY CROSS – AND WHILE HOLDING THE CROSS ABOVE HIS HEAD, HE SINGS

FESTAL KONTAKION OF THE HOLY CROSS

O Ipsothis en to Stavro ekousios, ti Lifted up of Thine own Will upon the

eponimo Sou keni politia, tous Cross, Thou bestows Thy Mercy
iktirmous Sou dorise, Hriste O Theos. upon the New Commonwealth that
Evfranon en ti Dinami Sou tous bears Thy Name. Make the Orthodox
Pistous Vasilis imon, Nikas horigon people glad in Thy Strength, granting
aftis kata ton polemion. Tin them Victory over their enemies.
simmahian ehien tin sin, oplon Irinis, May Thy Cross assist them in Battle
Aittiton Tropeon. – a Weapon of Peace and
Unconquerable Ensign Of Victory!
AFTER BLESSING THE CONGREGATION WITH THE SIGN OF THE CROSS, THE PRIEST PLACES
THE PRECIOUS CROSS ON THE TABLE AND SINGS:

✞Ton Stavron Sou PRIEST ✞We Venerate

proskinoumen, Thy Cross, O Master,
Despota, ke tin Agian and we Glorify Thy
Sou Anastasin Holy Resurrection!
Doxazomen! OUR BELOVED HOLY FATHER,
✞Ton Stavron Sou PEOPLE ✞We Venerate POPE & PATRIARCH OF ALEXANDRIA & ALL AFRICA
proskinoumen, Thy Cross, O Master, THEODOROS II
Despota, ke tin Agian and we Glorify Thy THE UNIVERSAL EXALTATION OF
Sou Anastasin Holy Resurrection!(2) THE HOLY, LIFE-GIVING CROSS OF CHRIST OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR
Doxazomen! (2)

THE PRIEST MAKES TWO PROSTRATIONS BEFORE THE

PRECIOUS CROSS AND KISSES IT, AFTER WHICH HE
MAKES A THIRD PROSTRATION.
THE HOLY CROSS IS THEN VENERTED BY THE REST OF THE
CLERGY AND THE CONGREGATION IN SIMILAR
MANNER.

18 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 15.
 FESTAL APOLYTIKION - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS
Soson Kyrie ton laon Sou, ke Evlogison O Lord, Save Thy People, and Bless
tin Klironomian Sou, Nikas tis Thine Inheritance, granting Victory
Holy Service of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross evsevesi kata varvaron doroumenos,
ke to son Filatton, dia tou Stavrou
over enemies unto our Rulers and
through Thy Cross preserving Thine
Sou Politefma. (3) Estate (3)
THE CONGREGATION MUST STAND
DURING THE CHANTING OF THE GREAT DOXOLOGY, THE THE PRIEST PROCEEDS TO THE CENTRE OF
PRIEST PUTS ON ALL HIS VESTMENTS, AND STANDS WITH THE SOLEAS AND PLACES THE CROSS
THE INCENSE BEFORE THE HOLY ALTAR UPON WHICH IS A ON A TABLE OR ANALOGIAN THAT HAS
TRAY OF BASIL. FLOWERS, CANDLES AND THE PRECIOUS BEEN SPECIALLY PREPARED FOR IT.
CROSS.
HE CENSES THE CROSS FROM THE FOUR
THE PROCESSION OF THE HOLY CROSS BEGINS WITH SIDES OF THE TABLE.
THE CHANTING OF THE THRICE HOLY HYMN “AGIOS O
THEOS...” THE PRIEST THEN MAKES THREE DEEP
PROSTRATIONS – WHATEVER DAY IT
THE TRISAGION OR THRICE HOLY HYMN MIGHT BE – AND TAKING THE
PREICIOUS CROSS WITH BRANCHES OF
✞Agios O Theos, Agios Ishiros, Agios PEOPLE ✞ Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy BASIL, HE RAISES IT ABOVE HIS HEAD
Athanatos, eleison imas. [3] Immortal, have mercy upon us [3] (FACING EAST) AND SAYS ALOUD:
✞Doxa Patri ke Io ke Agio Pnevmati. ✞Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
Ke nin ke Ai ke is tous eonas ton and to the Holy Spirit, Now and Eleison imas, O Theos, kata to Mega PRIEST Have Mercy on us, O God,
eonon. forever, and to the Ages of ages. Eleos Sou, deometha Sou, epakouson according to Thy Great Mercy; we
ke Eleison. pray Thee: hear us and have Mercy
Amin Amen on us.
✞Agios Athanatos, eleison imas. ✞ Holy Immortal, have mercy upon us Kyrie eleison (100) CHOIR: Lord have mercy (100)
✞ Agios O Theos, Agios Ishiros, Agios ✞ Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy
Athanatos, eleison imas Immortal, have mercy on us THE PRIEST MAKES THE SIGN OF THE CROSS THREE TIMES WITH THE PRECIOUS
CROSS AND THE BASIL, AND SLOWLY ENDS DOWN TO THE GROUND WITH IT,
THE PRIEST COMPASSES THE HOLY ALTAR, CENSING THE CROSS
AFTER WHICH HE SLOWLY RISES AGAIN, FINALLY RAISING THE CROSS ONCE
FROM ALL FOUR SIDES.
MORE ABOVE HIS HEAD.
WHILE THE CHOIR SINGS THE CONCLUDING VERSE
OF THE TRISAGION HYMN, HE PICKS UP THE TRAY AS THE CHOIR CONCLUDES THE “KYRIE ELEISON” THE PRIEST LOWERS THE
WITH THE CROSS AND HOLDS IT UPON HIS HEAD AS CROSS TO THE LEVEL OF HIS HEART, AND ONCE MORE MAKES THE SIGN OF
HE PROCEEDS ROUND THE HOLY ALTAR AND EXITS THE CROSS WITH IT THREE TIMES.
THE SANCTUARY THROUGH THE NORTH DOOR.
STANDING AT THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE TABLE, FACING NORTH, HE SAYS:
THE CROSS IS PRECEDED BY PROCESSIONAL
CANDLES, THE EXAPTERYGA THE DEACON
WITH THE INCENSE.
AND
Eti deometha iper ton efsovon ke PRIEST Again, we pray for all Pious and
Orthodoxon Hristianon... Orthodox Christians...
THE PRIEST STANDS BEFORE ROYAL GATES,
FACING EAST AND WHEN
THE
THE TRISAGION IS
Kyrie eleison (100) CHOIR: Lord have mercy (100)
CONCLUDED HE SAYS ALOUD:
THE PRIEST RAISES THE CROSS AS BEFORE, WHILE THE CHOIR SINGS THE SECOND 100 “KYRIE
Sofia! Wisdom! ELEISON”

Proshomen! Let us attend! THE PRIEST STANDS AT THE EAST SIDE OF THE TABLE, FACING WEST:

EXALTATION PROCESSION WITH PORTIONS OF THE TRUE CROSS IN THE Eti deometha iper tou Arhipiskopou PRIEST Again, we pray for our
CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION, JERUSALEM. ALL THE BISHOPS WEAR ( . . . N A M E . . . ) ke pasis tis en Hristo Archbishop ( . . . N A M E . . . ) and for all
GREEN ROBES – THE COLOUR OF THE BASIL DISCOVERED IN THE CAVE OF Adelfotitos... our Brethren in Christ...
THE CROSS.
Kyrie eleison (100) CHOIR: Lord have mercy (100)
THE CHOIR SINGS THE THIRD HUNDRED “KYRIE ELEISON” WHILE THE PRIEST RAISES THE CROSS
AS BEFORE...

16 F E S T A L M A T I N S & D I V L I T H Y M N S - E X A L T A T I O N OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER FESTAL MATINS & DIV LIT HYMNS - EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – 14 SEPTEMBER 17.