The holy prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elizabeth, his wife from the Aron family, sister of Anna, mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary, lived in the days of Herod, king of the Jews. Both of them were righteous before God. Zechariah was a high priest and prophet. At the solemn event of the introduction of the Virgin Mary, he, according to God's teaching, introduced her into the Holy of Holies. The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke says about them: Both were righteous before God, walking according to all the commandments and statutes of the Lord blamelessly (Luke 1:6). The fruit of the marital righteousness of Zechariah and Elizabeth was the honest and glorious prophet, the Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord, John.

When the Most Holy Virgin, on the 40th day after the birth of the Savior, came to the temple of God for legal purification, then, according to legend, it was Zechariah who received Her with the Eternal Child and placed her in the temple in the place designated for virgins. The scribes were indignant, but Zechariah confessed that although this Virgin became a Mother, she did not cease to be a pure Virgin.

Herod, the king of Judea, fearing that the Infant Christ would take away his kingdom, condemned all newborns in Judea to be beaten. He also remembered John, since the events that accompanied his birth (the Nativity of John the Baptist is celebrated on June 24) caused fear and amazement among the surrounding residents. However, the assassins sent by Herod did not find Saint John in the house of Zechariah.

When the godless murders of children began in Bethlehem, Saint Elizabeth, taking John, immediately hurriedly went to highest mountains desert (at this time Saint Zechariah was in Jerusalem, fulfilling his ministry). Hiding in the mountains, Saint Elizabeth prayed to God with tears, asking Him to protect them. And when from the heights of the mountains she saw the approaching warriors, she cried out, turning to the stone rock: “Mountain of God! Receive the mother and child!” And immediately the mountain parted, took Elizabeth and John inside and, thus, hid them from the overtaking killers. So the soldiers, not finding what they were looking for, returned to the one who sent them empty-handed.

Then Herod sent his armor bearer to Zechariah in the temple to tell him: “Give me your son.” Saint Zechariah answered: “I now serve the Lord God of Israel, but where my son is now, I do not know.” Herod was very angry and again sent an armor bearer to Zechariah to tell him that if he did not give up his son, he would die himself. And soldiers came to him, fierce as animals, ready to carry out the command of the lawless king and with rage they said to the priest of God: “Where have you hidden your son? Give him over to us, for the king ordered us to kill you immediately if you do not give us your son.” ". Zechariah courageously responded to this: “You will kill my body. The Lord will accept my soul.” And immediately the murderers, fulfilling the lawless command, rushed with rage at the saint and killed him between the church and the altar (Matthew 23:35). His shed blood, being absorbed, remained on the marble and became like stone, as evidence of Herod’s crime and his eternal condemnation.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth, hidden by God along with John, remained in the parted mountain. In it, by God's command, a cave was formed for them; a source appeared near her and grew date palm, full of fruits. Every time it was time to eat, the tree bowed down, and when they were satisfied with the fruits, it straightened up again.

After forty days had passed after the murder of Zechariah, Saint Elizabeth reposed in the mentioned cave. From that time on, Saint John was an angel until he came of age, guarded until the day of his appearance. to the Israeli people. Thus the hand of God guarded and covered Saint John, so that he would go before the face of the Lord with the spirit and power of Elijah, and prepare the way for Him coming to save the human race.

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Kontakion 1

Chosen from the line of Aaron, who gave birth to John the God-praised, predestined to be the Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth! For you who have boldness towards the Lord, through your intercession free us from all troubles, who cry to you: Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, who have grown up as good fruit for people.

Ikos 1

The angels of earth and the men of heaven have truly appeared, Saints Zechariah and Elizabeth, from your youth adorned with all the virtues and having lived your life immaculately together, he wonders, we call you voices of praise: Rejoice, O glorious vegetation of the Aron family. Rejoice, bright adornment of pious parents. Rejoice, guardians of mental and physical purity. Rejoice, zealous guardian of God's commandments. Rejoice, righteous spouses, chosen by God. Rejoice, you have been called to the heavenly table by the Lord. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 2

Seeing from the height of His glory, the Heavenly Father, how your holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth lived piously and holyly, bless your holy branch to produce honest and glorious fruit - John, so that he could be a prophet, Forerunner and Baptist to His beloved Son Jesus To Christ, to Him we give praise: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Archangel Gabriel, directed from above by the Divine Mind, appeared to you, Priest Zechariah, who entered the sanctuary and served according to the order of his order. Seeing the heavenly messenger standing at the right hand of the altar of incense, great fear filled you, and the messenger of God said: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah.” We, touched by the mercy of God towards your family, cry out: Rejoice, strong protection of a chaste life. Rejoice, the immutable victory over sins and passions. Rejoice, generously overshadowed by the grace of God. Rejoice, you who see the hidden mysteries in heaven. Rejoice, like disembodied angels who have lived on earth. Rejoice, having preserved bodily purity in your life. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 3

The ineffable power of God’s mercy has been revealed to you, holy ones, for seeing the righteousness of your walk before the face of God, the Lord has sent you great consolation in your old age, so that you may sing to Him faithfully: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Have a command from the Lord to comfort you, Holy Zechariah, to tell the angel of God that your prayer is acceptable to God and, listening to it, God will grant you mercy: for blessing your wife Elizabeth, resolving the bonds of her infertility, let her give birth to a son of the same name as the grace of John. In the same way, receive this song from us: Rejoice, you who have pleased God with your life. Rejoice, you who have walked holy before Him without fail. Rejoice, for in your prayers to the Creator you exalted your nature. Rejoice, for you have always naturally been comforted by the word of the Lord. Rejoice, you who have placed all your hopes in the Creator. Rejoice in your good deeds not knowing fatigue. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 4

Not overcome by the storm of this worldly life, your son, Saints Zechariah and Elizabeth, will be great before the Lord, not only in body, but also in spirit, says the Angel of the Lord, for with his birth he will bring great joy into the world, as many will rejoice at his birth, praising the Creator: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Hearing wondrous words about his son, how he will be called a great prophet and faster, and from his mother’s womb he will be filled with the Holy Spirit and many from the children of Israel will turn to the true God for his sake, for he must be the Forerunner of Christ in the spirit and power of the prophet Elijah and prepare peoples to receive the Savior, Zechariah was greatly amazed and surprised, not daring to believe what was spoken by the Angel. We, listening to the words of the angels, cry out to you: Rejoice, you who have acquired the great mercy of the Creator. Rejoice, you who have brought great joy to the tongues. Rejoice, having covered your gray hairs with glory. Rejoice, you who have not deprived yourself of rewards in heaven. Rejoice, you who have become like the merciful Lord in everything. Rejoice, you who have always worshiped the Triune God. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 5

Fear God precisely, the angel of the Lord said to Zechariah: I am Gabriel, standing before God and sent to tell you all this good news, especially because you did not believe my words, you will remain dumb and not utter a single word until everything that I have spoken must be fulfilled according to to the will of the great God, to whom I sing glory: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Having seen the people who were in the Church of the Lord, Zechariah lingered in the altars, I was greatly amazed at this, but I went out to them and was not able to speak, but only anointed, understanding everything, as if he had a vision in the altars. We, glorifying the wondrous Lord in His miracles, say to you: Rejoice, for the power of God has come upon you. Rejoice, for the will of God has been immutably done for you. Rejoice, for the mercy of the Creator has poured out upon you in abundance. Rejoice, for great joy has been generously bestowed upon you by the Creator. Rejoice, for you have been exalted by the holy hand. Rejoice because you are setting an example for everyone. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 6

The word of the Lord, announced by the angel, seeing the event, Elizabeth rejoiced greatly, for she conceived her son and hid herself for five months, saying: as the Lord has done for me in the days that I will take away my reproach among men, that I may sing His praise: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

The grace of God arose abundantly in Saint Elizabeth, when she was filled with the Holy Spirit and cried out with a great voice to the Virgin Mary: “Blessed are You among women and blessed is the fruit of Your womb! And whence comes this to me, for the Mother of my Lord has come to me!” Her child jumped in the womb with joy at the coming of the Mother of God. Yes, and the grace of the Holy Spirit has descended upon us, crying out with joy: Rejoice, gilded by the Holy Spirit. Rejoice, the Creator has generously given grace to the overshadowing. Rejoice, great child who conceived holyly. Rejoice, you who have known the joy of fatherhood and motherhood from God. Rejoice, relative of the Mother of God in all honor. Rejoice, most blessed servant of the incarnate Son of God. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 7

I want to announce to people from the angel the named name of my son John, Holy Zechariah, after his birth he wrote and opened your tongue and mouth, and said again, blessing God and singing to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

May the Lord give you new grace, O righteous Zechariah, to fill you with the Holy Spirit as you prophesy, saying: “Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for you have visited and created deliverance for your people and raised up the horn of salvation for us in the house of your servant David, as the mouth of the holy ones spoke.” From the beginning of time His prophet, and you, as a child, were called the prophet of the Most High, for you went before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways.” But we, heeding your prophecy, through you, the righteous women of God, praise the Lord, singing these praises to you: Rejoice, having brought forth the holy into the world. Rejoice, you who brought joy to the world through this Christmas. Rejoice, you who have praised God beyond measure. Rejoice, you who served the Lord faithfully. Rejoice, all who fulfilled His Laws. Rejoice, you have kept yourself pure. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 8

A strange miracle happened around the living people, when I heard about the glorious and wonderful birth of your child, the holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, and with surprise I said to myself: “What will this lad do?” We, rejoicing in the glorious birth of the Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord, cry out to the Lord: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

You were filled with great confusion, the prophet of God Zechariah, in vain the Most Holy Virgin Mary with the Infant God came to the temple and in the place of unclean women stood before the doors of the temple, wanting to ask for the lawful cleansing. Having led You into the Holy of Holies by you, at the inspiration of God, brought in and brought up there, and realizing in spirit that this Mother is the Pure Virgin even after the Nativity, put You for this sake in the place of maidens, where wives who have husbands do not stand properly. We, praising the Pure Virgin with you, cry out with love and tenderness: Rejoice, you who have given glory to the Mother of God. Rejoice, you who together with all praised Her. Rejoice, you who have been waiting for God's coming into the world. Rejoice, pure prayer Pleasing the Creator. Rejoice, joyful in the face of the Infant Christ. Rejoice in His erection of the Kingdom of God. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 9

All the angels and saints rejoiced with great joy when you, holy Zechariah, on your righteous hands, were touched in your heart and with the fear of God, you accepted the Infant of God, and as the Creator and God, you cried out to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

Human infamy is not sufficient for the worthy glorification of your wondrous life, the holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, for it is not possible to confess and honor all your prayers and fastings, all your tears and sighs even to God. Receive from us, who strive with love for you, this small praise: Rejoice, vessels of the Holy Spirit from the age of election. Rejoice, you stretched out your hand to the Creator in hope. Rejoice, saints of the Most Holy Trinity. Rejoice, you who found the way to God through thorns. Rejoice, having acquired salvation through your labors. Rejoice, you who have trusted only in the Lord in everything. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 10

Wanting to save her child, the mother gave her child water and fled with him to the mountains from the evil child killer Herod, who sent soldiers to Bethlehem, so that all the babies would be beaten, ordered the death of your child too, blessed Zechariah and Elizabeth. We, the Lord, who preserves His chosen ones from the hand of the wicked, say with love: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

The Lord, righteous Elisabeth, was a wall of intercession from the overtaking murderers, when, according to your prayer: “Mountain of God, receive mother and son!”, He commanded the mountain of stone to immediately part and enclose you and your child within itself. Rejoicing in your salvation with tears, we cry out to you: Rejoice in the Lord in all the ways of your preservation. Rejoice, being led through this life by the hand of God. Rejoice, you who carried love for the Creator within yourself. Rejoice, you who have tasted the incorruptible fruit in Paradise. Rejoice, those who suffered for the truth of God. Rejoice, having desired to be with God. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 11

You offered prayer songs to the Lord God, holy and righteous Zechariah, when the warriors of the beastly Herod came to you with the command to give them your son. You answered them: “I serve this day the Lord God of Israel, and I know not where my son is!” Cry out to God who strengthens you: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

The temple of the Lord was filled with heavenly light, O righteous Zechariah, when you said to the warriors asking you: “You will kill my body, but the Lord will receive my soul!” I was killed between the church and the altar, as Herod commanded, your holy blood that was shed was thickened on marble and hardened as a testimony and eternal condemnation of Herod. We, glorifying your martyrdom, sing with voices of praise: Rejoice, you who have dedicated your souls to the Creator. Rejoice, having preserved them in holiness. Rejoice in the heavenly glory of the wedding from God. Rejoice in the joy of your Lord to enter into your calling. Rejoice, for you are now eating incorruptible food. Rejoice, for you continually pray to God for us.

Kontakion 12

Divine grace appeared on you, righteous Elizabeth, and an indescribable miracle was marvelously revealed, when in the mountain that hid you and your child, by God’s command a cave was built, a spring of water opened and a phoenix grew over the cave, bearing its fruits in abundance. Rejoicing in such favor of God, you sang to Him with your child: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing a joyful song of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord, after forty days after the murder of the righteous Zechariah, Saint Elizabeth gave up her soul to her Creator and was united with her husband in heaven. Glorifying righteous living yours, Saints Zechariah and Elizabeth, we earnestly beseech you to hear our singing of praise: Rejoice, for in the holy faith you are affirmed. Rejoice, for you are our protection from troubles. Rejoice, for you always protect us from sorrows. Rejoice, for you tame the passions of the body in us. Rejoice, you are the patron of wisdom as a pious spouse. Rejoice, you are a teacher of goodness as our children. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 13

Oh, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth! We pray to you with zeal and love: ask our Lord for confirmation in this life of faith and virtues, deliverance from sorrows and misfortunes, forgiveness of our sins, so that we too may be worthy to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven and sing to God forever: Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

This kontakion is read three times. Then Ikos 1 and Kontakion 1.

Prayer

About the greatness of Christ's righteous women, Saints Zechariah and Elizabeth! We resort to you and pray to you with great hope: bring your holy prayers to the Lord for us sinners, may He send all that is beneficial to our souls and bodies, rightful faith, unfeigned love, prosperity in good deeds, health and eternal salvation to our souls and bodies. Do not despise our prayers offered to you with tenderness, but be our intercessor to the Lord, so that through your help we may be worthy to receive eternal salvation, to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven and, together with you and all the saints, to glorify the ineffable love for mankind of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, in the Trinity we worship God, in forever and ever. Amen.

Zechariah the Righteous, father of John the Baptist

See also: "

Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist

Lives of the Prophet Zechariah and the Righteous Elizabeth

The holy prophet Zechariah and the holy righteous Elizabeth were the parents of the holy Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord John. They came from the Aaronic family: Saint Zechariah, son of Barachiah, was a priest in the Jerusalem Temple, and Saint Elizabeth was the sister of Saint Anna, the mother of the Most Holy Theotokos. The righteous spouses, “walking blamelessly in all the commandments of the Lord” (Luke 1:5-25), suffered from infertility, which was considered in Old Testament times to be a great punishment from God. One day, while serving in the temple, Saint Zechariah received news from an Angel that his elderly wife would bear him a son, who “will be great before the Lord” (Luke 1:15) and “will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Luke 1). ,17). Zechariah doubted the possibility of fulfilling this prediction and was punished with muteness for his lack of faith. When righteous Elizabeth had a son, she, at the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, announced that she would name the baby John, although no one in their family had been given such a name before. They asked the righteous Zechariah, and he also wrote the name John on the tablet. Immediately the gift of speech returned to him, and he, filled with the Holy Spirit, began to prophesy about his son as the Forerunner of the Lord.

When the wicked King Herod heard from the Magi about the born Messiah, he decided to beat all babies under the age of 2 in Bethlehem and its environs, hoping that the born Messiah would be among them. Herod knew well about the unusual birth of the prophet John and wanted to kill him, fearing that he was the King of the Jews. But righteous Elizabeth hid with the baby in the mountains. The killers looked everywhere for John. Righteous Elizabeth, seeing her pursuers, with tears began to pray to God for salvation, and immediately the mountain parted and sheltered her and the baby from the pursuit. During these disastrous days, Saint Zechariah fulfilled his turn of service in the Jerusalem Temple. The soldiers sent by Herod tried in vain to find out from him where his son was. Then, at the command of Herod, they killed the holy prophet, stabbing him between the altar and the altar (Matt. 23:35). Righteous Elizabeth died 40 days after her husband, and Saint John, protected by the Lord, remained in the desert until the day of his appearance to the people of Israel.

See also: " Life of the Holy Prophet Zechariah"as presented by St. Demetrius of Rostov.

On September 5/18, the Church honors the memory of the prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elizabeth, the parents of John the Baptist.

Life

The holy prophet Zechariah and the holy righteous Elizabeth were the parents of the holy Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord John. They came from the clan of Aaron: Saint Zechariah, son of Barachiah, was a priest in Jerusalem Temple, and Saint Elizabeth was the sister of Saint Anne, mother Holy Mother of God.

The righteous spouses, “walking blamelessly according to all the commandments of the Lord,” suffered from infertility, which was considered in Old Testament times to be a great punishment from God. One day, while serving in the temple, Saint Zechariah received news from an Angel that his elderly wife would give birth to a son who “will be great before the Lord” and “will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah.” Zechariah doubted the possibility of fulfilling this prediction and was punished with muteness for his lack of faith.

When righteous Elizabeth had a son, she, at the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, announced that she would name the baby John, although no one in their family had been given such a name before. They asked the righteous Zechariah, and he also wrote the name John on the tablet. Immediately the gift of speech returned to him, and he, filled with the Holy Spirit, began to prophesy about his son as the Forerunner of the Lord.

When the wicked King Herod heard from the Magi about the born Messiah, he decided to beat all babies under the age of 2 in Bethlehem and its environs, hoping that the born Messiah would be among them. Herod knew well about the unusual birth of the prophet John and wanted to kill him, fearing that he was the King of the Jews.

But righteous Elizabeth hid with the baby in the mountains. The killers looked everywhere for John. Righteous Elizabeth, seeing her pursuers, with tears began to pray to God for salvation, and immediately the mountain parted and sheltered her and the baby from the pursuit. During these disastrous days, Saint Zechariah fulfilled his turn of service in the Jerusalem Temple. The soldiers sent by Herod tried in vain to find out from him where his son was. Then, at the command of Herod, they killed the holy prophet, stabbing him between the altar and the altar. Righteous Elizabeth died 40 days after her husband, and Saint John, protected by the Lord, remained in the desert until the day of his appearance to the people of Israel.

Icons and paintings

“The Conception of John the Baptist” (meeting between Zechariah and Elizabeth; the figure of their future son is depicted on the right)

“Annunciation of the Nativity of John the Baptist”, fresco by Domenico Ghirlandaio in the Tornabuoni Chapel

Prayers

First prayer

Holy God and rest in the saints, glorified by the angels with a thrice-holy voice in heaven, praised on earth by man in His saints, giving grace to each by Your Holy Spirit according to the bestowal of Christ, and by that ordaining to the Church of Your Holy Ones apostles, prophets, and evangelists , you are shepherds and teachers, whose word of sermon, to You who acts all in all, has accomplished many saints in every generation and generation, with various benefactors pleasing You, and to You, having left us the image of your good deeds, having passed away in joy, prepare, in it the temptations themselves came, and help us those who are attacked. Remembering all these saints and the holy prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elizabeth and praising their godly lives, I praise You Himself, who acted in them, and believing in Your goodness, I diligently pray to You, Holy of Holies, grant that I, a sinner, may follow their teaching, life, love, faith, patience, and their prayerful help, and more than Your all-effective grace, the heavenly ones with them were honored with glory, praising the Most Holy your name, Father and Son and Holy Spirit forever. Amen.

Second prayer

Oh, blessed saints of God, all the saints who stand before the Throne of the Most Holy Trinity and enjoy indescribable bliss! Behold, now, on the day of your common triumph, look mercifully upon us, your lesser brothers, who bring you this song of praise, and through your intercession ask for mercy and remission of sins from the Most Blessed Lord; We know, we truly know, that whatever you desire, you can ask Him for. Therefore, we humbly pray to you, and to the holy prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elizabeth, pray to the Merciful Master, may He give us the spirit of your zeal for keeping His holy commandments, so that, following in your footsteps, we will be able to pursue an earthly career in a virtuous life without blemish, and in By repentance, reach the glorious villages of paradise, and there together with you glorify the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen!

Prayer three

To you, about the holiness of all, the holy prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elizabeth, as guiding lamps, who with their deeds illuminated the path of the heavenly sunrise, I, a great sinner, humbly bow the knee of my heart and from the depths of my soul I cry: beg for me, the Lover of Mankind, God, that he will not allow me to wander again along the paths of sin, but may my mind and heart be enlightened by the light of His grace, as if we illuminate and strengthen it, I will be able to continue the rest of my earthly life on the right path without stumbling and through your intercession to the Most Good Lord I will be honored, for a little while I will be a partaker of your spiritual meal in the heavenly throne of the King glory. To Him, with His Beginningless Father and the Most Holy, Good and Life-Giving Spirit, be glory, honor and worship forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer four

Oh, holy saints of God, the prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elizabeth, you fought a good fight on earth, you received in heaven the crown of righteousness, which the Lord prepared for all who love Him; In the same way, looking at your holy icon, we rejoice at the glorious end of your life and honor your holy memory. You, standing before the Throne of God, accept our prayers and bring them to the All-Merciful God, to forgive us every sin and help us against the wiles of the devil, so that, having been delivered from sorrows, illnesses, troubles and misfortunes and all evil, we will live piously and righteously in the present We will be worthy, through your intercession, even though we are unworthy, to see good on the land of the living, glorifying the One in His saints, the glorified God, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.

Troparion, tone 2

Your righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, O Lord, we celebrate your memory, and we pray to You: save our souls.

Troparion to the Holy Prophet Zechariah, tone 4

You were clothed with the garments of the priesthood, in wisdom, according to the law of God, you offered burnt offerings in a sacred manner, Zechariah, and you were a lamp and a spectator of secrets, bearing signs of grace in you clearly, in all wisdom, and you were killed with a sword in the temple of God, the prophet of Christ, with the Forerunner pray for the salvation of souls ours.

Kontakion to the Holy Prophet Zechariah, tone 3

Today the prophet and priest of the Most High, Zechariah, offer, the Forerunner parent, a meal of his memory, feeding faithfully, dissolving the drink of righteousness to everyone, for this sake he dies, like the Divine secret place of God’s grace.

Kontakion of the Righteous Elizabeth, tone 4

Like the moon is full, you received the Light of Truth from the Mental Sun of the Messiah, and you walked in all the commandments of the Lord with Zechariah, God-beloved Elizabeth. We magnify the Lord with worthy songs to please you, the All-Bountiful Light that enlightens everyone.

Lives of the Prophet Zechariah and the Righteous Elizabeth

The holy prophet Za-kha-ria and the holy righteous Eli-sa-ve-ta were the birth of the holy Pro-ro-ka, Pre-te-chi and Kre-sti-te-lya the Lord under John. They came from the clan of Aaro-no-va: Saint Za-kha-ria, the son of Bara-chia, was a priest in Jerusalem temple, and Saint Eli-sa-ve-ta was the sister of Saint Anna, ma-te-ri of the Most Holy Bo-go-ro-di-tsy. The righteous su-spru-gi, “walking in all the directions of the Lord-under-him, impeccably” (), they suffered from infertility -I eat what was considered in ancient times to be great for God. Once upon a time, during service in the temple of St. Za-kha-ria, he received news from An-ge-la that his elder-re-laying He will give birth to a son, who “will be great before the Lord’s house” () and “will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah” ( ). Za-kha-ria doubted the possibility of fulfilling this prediction and was for little-belief in-ka-zan dumb-toy. When the righteous Eli-sa-ve-you had a son, she, at the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, announced that she baby John, although earlier in their family such a name was not given to anyone. They asked the righteous Zechariah, and he also wrote the name John on the tablet. Immediately the gift of speech returned to him, and he, filled with the Holy Spirit, began to prophesize about his son as the Presence of the Lord.

When the wicked King Herod heard from the Magi about the birth of the Messiah, he decided to beat Beth-le-e-me and its surroundings. the birth of all infants under the age of 2 years, hoping that the Messiah will be born among them. Herod knew well about the unusual birth of the pro-John and wanted to kill him, fearing that he was the King of the Jews. But the righteous Eli-sa-ve-ta hid with the baby in the mountains. Killers are looking for John all over the place. The righteous Eli-sa-ve-ta, having seen the pre-va-te-lei, with the tears began to pray to God for salvation, and right away the mountain sank and hid her and the baby from the world. During these disastrous days, Saint Zechariah fulfilled his duties in the Jerusalem temple. They, sent by Herod, tried in vain to find out from him where his son was. Then, according to Iro-da, they killed the holy pro-ro-ka, for-catch- ing him between the sacrifices and al-ta- rem(). The righteous Eli-sa-ve-ta died 40 days after her husband, and Saint John, preserved by the Lord , remained in the desert until the day of his appearance from the ra-il-sko-mu-ro-du.

See also: "" in the text of St. Di-mit-ria of Ro-stov.

Prayers

Troparion to the Prophet Zechariah and the Righteous Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist

Your righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, / Lord, we celebrate the memory, / hereby we pray to You: save our souls.

Translation: Your righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, Lord, celebrating the memory, together with them we pray to You: “Save our souls.”

Troparion to the Prophet Zechariah, father of John the Baptist

You were clothed with the garments of the priesthood, in wisdom, / according to the law of God, you offered burnt offerings in a sacred manner, Zechariah, / and you were a lamp and a spectator of secret things, / signs of grace in you He was clearly seen by all, / and he was killed with the sword in the temple of God, / the prophet of Christ , pray with the Forerunner // for our souls to be saved.

Translation: Endowed with the priesthood, wise, according to the law of God, you, worthy of shrines, offered God-pleasing things, Zechariah, and were a lamp and spectator of the sacraments, clearly carrying within you, all-wise, and was killed by the sword in the temple of God, Christ, with the Forerunner praying for the salvation of our souls.

Kontakion to the Prophet Zechariah, father of John the Baptist

Today the prophet and priest of the Most High, / Zechariah, the Forerunner parent, / offers a meal of his memory, / faithful nourishment, drinking of righteousness for everyone, / for this sake he will die, / divine secret place of God's grace.

Translation: Today, the prophet and priest of the Most High, Zechariah - the parent of the Forerunner, prepared a meal in his memory, nourishing the believers, for, having mixed the drink of truth () for everyone, that is why he rested as a sacred minister of God's grace.

Kontakion of Righteous Elizabeth, Mother of John the Baptist

As the moon is full,/ you received the light of truth from the mental Sun, the Messiah,/ and you walked with Zechariah in all the commandments of the Lord,/ God’s beloved Elisova./ With songs worthy of slaughter pleasingly,/ the all-generous Light, enlightening everyone,// we magnify the Lord.

Translation: Like the full moon, you were illuminated by the light of truth from the spiritual Sun, the Messiah, and you fulfilled all the commandments of the Lord with Zechariah, God-beloved Elizabeth. Glorifying you with prayer chants according to your dignity, the all-generous Light that enlightens everyone (), we magnify the Lord.

Prayer to the prophet Zechariah and righteous Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist

Holy God and rest in the saints, praised by the thrice-holy voice in heaven from the angels, praised on earth by men in His saints, giving grace to everyone by Your Holy Spirit re the gift of Christ, and thereby established Thy Holy Church, two apostles, two prophets, and two evangelists , you are shepherds and teachers, and in the word of the sermon, You yourself act in all things, many saints have been accomplished in every generation and generation, with various benefactors pleasing You, and to You , having left us the image of your good deeds, having passed on in joy, prepare, in the same the temptations themselves came, and help us who are attacked. Remembering all these saints and the holy prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elizabeth and praising their godly lives, I praise You, who acted in them, and Your goodness. Granting the gift of being a believer, I diligently pray to Thee, Holy of Holies, grant that the sinner may follow their teaching, life, love, faith, longsuffering, and their prayerful help, and moreover Your all-effective grace, the heavenly ones will be worthy of glory with them, praising Your Most Holy Name, Father and Son upon and the Holy Spirit forever. Amen.

Second prayer to the prophet Zechariah and righteous Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist

Oh, blessed saints of God, all the saints who stand before the Throne of the Most Holy Trinity and enjoy indescribable bliss! Today, on the day of your common triumph, look mercifully upon us, your least brothers, who bring you this song of praise, and through your intercession, asking for mercy and absolution remission of sins from the Most Good Lord; We know, truly we know, that you can ask Him for everything you desire. Moreover, we humbly pray to you, and to the holy prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elisabeth, pray to the Merciful Master, may he give us the spirit of your zeal for the preservation of His holy Know that, following in your footsteps, we will be able to pass on the earthly path in a virtuous life without blemish, and in By repentance, reach the glorious villages of paradise, and there together with you glorify the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen!

Third prayer to the prophet Zechariah and righteous Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist

To you, oh, all saints and holy prophets Zechariah and righteous Elizabeth, like guiding lamps who with their actions illuminated the path of the heavenly sunrise, I am a sinner and humbly kneel my heart I bow down to me and from the depths of my soul I cry: pray for me to the Lover of Mankind, may He not allow me to wander through the paths of sin, but may my mind and heart be enlightened by the light of His grace, for with it we illuminate and strengthen, I can continue the rest of my earthly life on the right path without stumbling But come and through your intercession to the Most Good Lord I will be honored, so that I may be a small partaker of your spiritual meal in the heavenly devil King of glory. To Him, with His Beginningless Father and the Most Holy, Good and Life-Giving Spirit, be glory, honor and worship forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer four to the prophet Zechariah and righteous Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist

Oh, holy saints of God, prophet Zechariah and righteous Elisabeth! Having fought a good fight on earth, we received the crown of righteousness in Heaven, which the Lord has prepared for all who love Him. Moreover, looking at your holy image, we rejoice at the glorious end of your life and honor your holy memory. You, standing before the Throne of God, accept our prayers and bring them to the All-Merciful God, to forgive us every sin and help us to stand against the wiles of the devil, so that we may be freed from sorrows, knowledge, troubles and misfortunes and all evil, let us live piously and righteously in the present and through your representation we will be worthy, even though we are unworthy, to see good on the earth of the living, glorifying the One in His saints, glorifying God, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.

Canons and Akathists

Akathist to the saints and righteous prophets Zechariah and Elizabeth

Kontakion 1

Chosen from the line of Aaron, who gave birth to John the God-praised, predestined to be the Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth! For you who have boldness towards the Lord, through your intercession free us from all troubles, who cry to you: Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, who have grown up as good fruit for people.

Ikos 1

The angels of earth and the men of heaven have truly appeared, Saints Zechariah and Elizabeth, from your youth adorned with all the virtues and having lived your life immaculately together, he wonders, we call you voices of praise: Rejoice, O glorious vegetation of the Aron family. Rejoice, bright adornment of pious parents. Rejoice, guardians of mental and physical purity. Rejoice, zealous guardian of God's commandments. Rejoice, righteous spouses, chosen by God. Rejoice, you have been called to the heavenly table by the Lord. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 2

Seeing from the height of His glory, the Heavenly Father, how your holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth lived piously and holyly, bless your holy branch to produce honest and glorious fruit - John, so that he could be a prophet, Forerunner and Baptist to His beloved Son Jesus To Christ, to Him we give praise: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Archangel Gabriel, directed from above by the Divine Mind, appeared to you, Priest Zechariah, who entered the sanctuary and served according to the order of his order. Seeing the heavenly messenger standing at the right hand of the altar of incense, great fear filled you, and the messenger of God said: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah.” We, touched by the mercy of God towards your family, cry out: Rejoice, strong protection of a chaste life. Rejoice, the immutable victory over sins and passions. Rejoice, generously overshadowed by the grace of God. Rejoice, you who see the hidden mysteries in heaven. Rejoice, like disembodied angels who have lived on earth. Rejoice, having preserved bodily purity in your life. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 3

The ineffable power of God’s mercy has been revealed to you, holy ones, for seeing the righteousness of your walk before the face of God, the Lord has sent you great consolation in your old age, so that you may sing to Him faithfully: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Have a command from the Lord to comfort you, Holy Zechariah, to tell the angel of God that your prayer is acceptable to God and, listening to it, God will grant you mercy: for blessing your wife Elizabeth, resolving the bonds of her infertility, let her give birth to a son of the same name as the grace of John. In the same way, receive this song from us: Rejoice, you who have pleased God with your life. Rejoice, you who have walked holy before Him without fail. Rejoice, for in your prayers to the Creator you exalted your nature. Rejoice, for you have always naturally been comforted by the word of the Lord. Rejoice, you who have placed all your hopes in the Creator. Rejoice, you who have never experienced weariness in your good deeds. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 4

Not overcome by the storm of this worldly life, your son, Saints Zechariah and Elizabeth, will be great before the Lord, not only in body, but also in spirit, says the Angel of the Lord, for with his birth he will bring great joy into the world, as many will rejoice at his birth, praising the Creator: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Hearing wondrous words about his son, how he will be called a great prophet and faster, and from his mother’s womb he will be filled with the Holy Spirit and many from the children of Israel will turn to the true God for his sake, for he must be the Forerunner of Christ in the spirit and power of the prophet Elijah and prepare peoples to receive the Savior, Zechariah was greatly amazed and surprised, not daring to believe what was spoken by the Angel. We, listening to the words of the angels, cry out to you: Rejoice, you who have acquired the great mercy of the Creator. Rejoice, you who have brought great joy to the tongues. Rejoice, having covered your gray hairs with glory. Rejoice, you who have not deprived yourself of rewards in heaven. Rejoice, you who have become like the merciful Lord in everything. Rejoice, you who have always worshiped the Triune God. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 5

Fear God precisely, the angel of the Lord said to Zechariah: I am Gabriel, standing before God and sent to tell you all this good news, especially because you did not believe my words, you will remain dumb and not utter a single word until everything that I have spoken must be fulfilled according to to the will of the great God, to whom I sing glory: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Having seen the people who were in the Church of the Lord, Zechariah lingered in the altars, I was greatly amazed at this, but I went out to them and was not able to speak, but only anointed, understanding everything, as if he had a vision in the altars. We, glorifying the wondrous Lord in His miracles, say to you: Rejoice, for the power of God has come upon you. Rejoice, for the will of God has been immutably done for you. Rejoice, for the mercy of the Creator has poured out upon you in abundance. Rejoice, for great joy has been generously bestowed upon you by the Creator. Rejoice, for you have been exalted by the holy hand. Rejoice because you are setting an example for everyone. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 6

The word of the Lord, announced by the angel, seeing the event, Elizabeth rejoiced greatly, for she conceived her son and hid herself for five months, saying: as the Lord has done for me in the days that I will take away my reproach among men, that I may sing His praise: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

The grace of God arose abundantly in Saint Elizabeth, when she was filled with the Holy Spirit and cried out with a great voice to the Virgin Mary: “Blessed are You among women and blessed is the fruit of Your womb! And whence comes this to me, for the Mother of my Lord has come to me!” Her child jumped in the womb with joy at the coming of the Mother of God. Yes, and the grace of the Holy Spirit has descended upon us, crying out with joy: Rejoice, gilded by the Holy Spirit. Rejoice, the Creator has generously given grace to the overshadowing. Rejoice, great child who conceived holyly. Rejoice, you who have known the joy of fatherhood and motherhood from God. Rejoice, relative of the Mother of God in all honor. Rejoice, most blessed servant of the incarnate Son of God. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 7

I want to announce to people from the angel the named name of my son John, Holy Zechariah, after his birth he wrote and opened your tongue and mouth, and said again, blessing God and singing to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

May the Lord give you new grace, O righteous Zechariah, to fill you with the Holy Spirit as you prophesy, saying: “Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for you have visited and created deliverance for your people and raised up the horn of salvation for us in the house of your servant David, as the mouth of the holy ones spoke.” From the beginning of time His prophet, and you, as a child, were called the prophet of the Most High, for you went before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways.” But we, heeding your prophecy, through you, the righteous women of God, praise the Lord, singing these praises to you: Rejoice, having brought forth the holy into the world. Rejoice, you who brought joy to the world through this Christmas. Rejoice, you who have praised God beyond measure. Rejoice, you who served the Lord faithfully. Rejoice, all who fulfilled His Laws. Rejoice, you have kept yourself pure. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 8

A strange miracle happened around the living people, when I heard about the glorious and wonderful birth of your child, the holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, and with surprise I said to myself: “What will this lad do?” We, rejoicing in the glorious birth of the Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord, cry out to the Lord: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

You were filled with great confusion, the prophet of God Zechariah, in vain the Most Holy Virgin Mary with the Infant God came to the temple and in the place of unclean women stood before the doors of the temple, wanting to ask for the lawful cleansing. Having led You into the Holy of Holies by you, at the inspiration of God, brought in and brought up there, and realizing in spirit that this Mother is the Pure Virgin even after the Nativity, put You for this sake in the place of maidens, where wives who have husbands do not stand properly. We, praising the Pure Virgin with you, cry out with love and tenderness: Rejoice, you who have given glory to the Mother of God. Rejoice, you who together with all praised Her. Rejoice, you who have been waiting for God's coming into the world. Rejoice, having pleased the Creator with pure prayer. Rejoice, joyful in the face of the Infant Christ. Rejoice in His erection of the Kingdom of God. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 9

All the angels and saints rejoiced with great joy when you, holy Zechariah, on your righteous hands, were touched in your heart and with the fear of God, you accepted the Infant of God, and as the Creator and God, you cried out to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

Human infamy is not sufficient for the worthy glorification of your wondrous life, the holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, for it is not possible to confess and honor all your prayers and fastings, all your tears and sighs even to God. Receive from us, who strive with love for you, this small praise: Rejoice, vessels of the Holy Spirit from the age of election. Rejoice, you stretched out your hand to the Creator in hope. Rejoice, saints of the Most Holy Trinity. Rejoice, you who found the way to God through thorns. Rejoice, having acquired salvation through your labors. Rejoice, you who have trusted only in the Lord in everything. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 10

Wanting to save her child, the mother gave her child water and fled with him to the mountains from the evil child killer Herod, who sent soldiers to Bethlehem, so that all the babies would be beaten, ordered the death of your child too, blessed Zechariah and Elizabeth. We, the Lord, who preserves His chosen ones from the hand of the wicked, say with love: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

The Lord, righteous Elisabeth, was a wall of intercession from the overtaking murderers, when, according to your prayer: “Mountain of God, receive mother and son!”, He commanded the mountain of stone to immediately part and enclose you and your child within itself. Rejoicing in your salvation with tears, we cry out to you: Rejoice in the Lord in all the ways of your preservation. Rejoice, being led through this life by the hand of God. Rejoice, you who carried love for the Creator within yourself. Rejoice, you who have tasted the incorruptible fruit in Paradise. Rejoice, those who suffered for the truth of God. Rejoice, having desired to be with God. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 11

You offered prayer songs to the Lord God, holy and righteous Zechariah, when the warriors of the beastly Herod came to you with the command to give them your son. You answered them: “I serve this day the Lord God of Israel, and I know not where my son is!” Cry out to God who strengthens you: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

The temple of the Lord was filled with heavenly light, O righteous Zechariah, when you said to the warriors asking you: “You will kill my body, but the Lord will receive my soul!” I was killed between the church and the altar, as Herod commanded, your holy blood that was shed was thickened on marble and hardened as a testimony and eternal condemnation of Herod. We, glorifying your martyrdom, sing with voices of praise: Rejoice, you who have dedicated your souls to the Creator. Rejoice, having preserved them in holiness. Rejoice in the heavenly glory of the wedding from God. Rejoice in the joy of your Lord to enter into your calling. Rejoice, for you are now eating incorruptible food. Rejoice, for you continually pray to God for us.

Kontakion 12

Divine grace appeared on you, righteous Elizabeth, and an indescribable miracle was marvelously revealed, when in the mountain that hid you and your child, by God’s command a cave was built, a spring of water opened and a phoenix grew over the cave, bearing its fruits in abundance. Rejoicing in such favor of God, you sang to Him with your child: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing a joyful song of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord, after forty days after the murder of the righteous Zechariah, Saint Elizabeth gave up her soul to her Creator and was united with her husband in heaven. Glorifying your righteous life, Saints Zechariah and Elizabeth, we earnestly beseech you to hear our song of praise: Rejoice, for in the holy faith you are confirmed. Rejoice, for you are our protection from troubles. Rejoice, for you always protect us from sorrows. Rejoice, for you tame the passions of the body in us. Rejoice, you are the patron of wisdom as a pious spouse. Rejoice, you are a teacher of goodness as our children. Rejoice, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth, good fruit for people who have grown.

Kontakion 13

Oh, holy and righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth! We pray to you with zeal and love: ask our Lord for confirmation in this life of faith and virtues, deliverance from sorrows and misfortunes, forgiveness of our sins, so that we too may be worthy to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven and sing to God forever: Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

This kontakion is read three times. Then Ikos 1 and Kontakion 1.

Prayer

Oh, great righteous women of Christ, saints Zechariah and Elizabeth! We resort to you and pray to you with great hope: bring your holy prayers to the Lord for us sinners, may He send all that is beneficial to our souls and bodies, rightful faith, unfeigned love, prosperity in good deeds, health and eternal salvation to our souls and bodies. Do not despise our prayers offered to you with tenderness, but be our intercessor to the Lord, so that through your help we may be worthy to receive eternal salvation, to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven and, together with you and all the saints, to glorify the ineffable love for mankind of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, in the Trinity we worship God, in forever and ever. Amen.

50 main prayers for a woman Berestova Natalia

Prayers to the Holy Prophet Zechariah and Saint Elizabeth

The holy prophet Zechariah and the holy righteous Elizabeth (sister of St. Anna, mother of the Most Holy Theotokos) led a life pleasing to God, but for many years they had no offspring. In those distant times, infertility was considered one of the most terrible punishments sent by God for great sins.

Zechariah was a priest and one day, while serving in the temple, an Angel of the Lord appeared to him and announced the birth of a son who “will be great before the Lord.” Since Zechariah's wife, Anna, was already in old age, then the saint doubted the words of the Angel, for which immediate punishment followed - Zechariah lost the ability to speak.

The prediction came true, and Anna gave birth to a son, who, according to the will of his parents, was named John, although such a name had never existed in their family before. Then Zechariah’s ability to speak returned, and he immediately began to prophesy about the newborn, calling him the Forerunner of the Lord.

When King Herod, fearing the born Messiah, ordered the extermination of all Bethlehem babies from birth to two years, the Lord miraculously hid Saint Elizabeth and her son from their pursuers. The Holy Prophet Zechariah, who was serving in the temple at that time, received martyrdom at the hands of Herod's soldiers. Forty days later, righteous Elizabeth also departed to the Lord. Saint John the Baptist remained in the desert, where he spent his childhood and adolescence until the time came to reveal himself to the people of Israel.

Prayers are offered to the holy righteous Zechariah and Elizabeth for deliverance from infertility and for the successful birth of healthy children.

Holy Prophet Zechariah and Saint Elizabeth

First prayer

O holy saints of God, prophet Zechariah and righteous Elizabeth! Having fought a good fight on earth, we have naturally received in heaven the crown of righteousness, which the Lord has prepared for all who love Him. In the same way, looking at your holy image, we rejoice at the glorious end of your life and honor your holy memory. You, standing before the Throne of God, accept our prayers and bring them to the All-Merciful God, to forgive us every sin and help us against the wiles of the devil, so that, having been delivered from sorrows, illnesses, troubles and misfortunes and all evil, we will live piously and righteously in the present We will be worthy, through your intercession, even though we are unworthy, to see good on the land of the living, glorifying the One in His saints, the glorified God, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.

Second prayer

To you, about the holiness of all, the holy prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elizabeth, as guiding lamps, who with their deeds illuminated the path of the heavenly sunrise, I, a great sinner, humbly bow the knee of my heart and from the depths of my soul I cry: beg for me, the Lover of Mankind, God, that he will not allow me to wander again along the paths of sin, but may my mind and heart be enlightened by the light of His grace, as if we illuminate and strengthen it, I will be able to continue the rest of my earthly life on the right path without stumbling, and through your intercession to the Most Good Lord I will be honored, for a little while I will be a partaker of your spiritual meal in the heavenly throne of the King glory. To Him, with His Beginningless Father and the Most Holy, Good and Life-Giving Spirit, be glory, honor and worship forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer three

Oh, blessed saints of God, all the saints who stand before the Throne of the Most Holy Trinity and enjoy indescribable bliss! Behold, now, on the day of your common triumph, look mercifully upon us, your lesser brothers, who bring you this song of praise, and through your intercession ask for mercy and remission of sins from the Most Blessed Lord; We know, we truly know, that whatever you desire, you can ask Him for. Therefore, we humbly pray to you, and to the holy prophet Zechariah and the righteous Elizabeth, pray to the Merciful Master, may He give us the spirit of your zeal for keeping His holy commandments, so that, following in your footsteps, we will be able to pursue an earthly career in a virtuous life without blemish, and in By repentance, reach the glorious villages of paradise, and there together with you glorify the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen!

Prayers to the saint righteous John To the Kronstadt O great servant of Christ, holy righteous Father John of Kronstadt, wondrous shepherd, quick helper and merciful representative! Raising praise to the Triune God, you prayerfully cried out: Your name is Love: not

Prayers to the Saints of God Holy Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon O great servant of Christ, passion-bearer and much-merciful physician Panteleimon! Have mercy on me, a sinful slave, hear my groaning and cry, appease the Heavenly Supreme Physician of souls and