Akathist to the Blessed Mother of God
Kontakion 1
Holy Theotokos, we sing praises of thanksgiving to you, for you pleased only God and willingly gave your whole life to the service of His people. You believed, beyond doubt, in the ability of God to work wonders and to achieve His divine purpose on earth. Through you, blessed Virgin, Christianity was inaugurated in the days of Herod, the King of Judea. In simplicity of soul and with genuine love for God, you became the first Christian. We therefore cry out to you with all our heart:
Rejoice, Theotokos, blessed among women: we magnify you.
Ikos 1
When the Archangel Gabriel appeared to you, blessed Virgin, and told you that the Holy Spirit would come upon you and that you would bear the Son of God, you offered your womb as an earthly Heaven for the Holy One. In full cooperation with God's plan for salvation, you said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord. Let it be to me according to Your word.” Then the angel departed, and all generations since that day have sung:
Rejoice, humble Maiden, immaculate and full of grace.
Rejoice, honorable Virgin, shining forth a mystery of God.
Rejoice, partaker in divine communication through an angel.
Rejoice, for you spoke with an angel in purity of soul.
Rejoice, in your wondrous womb you carried the Immortal Son.
Rejoice, on earth you gave birth to the Creator and Savior of all.
Rejoice, favored diamond of faith.
Rejoice, righteous ruby of hope.
Rejoice, cherished emerald of charity.
Rejoice, silent sapphire of prayer.
Rejoice, majestic Mother of the Pearl of Great Price.
Rejoice, Sovereign Queen in service to God's people.
Rejoice, Theotokos, blessed among women: we magnify you.
Thank you! 64 people prayed
Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer everyone. Col 4:6