OLD CATHOLIC CONFEDERATION
Meditations for Great and Holy Lent
Meditations for Great and Holy Lent
"Stichera of the Holy Cross" (First Tone)
(from the Orthodox Service for the Third Sunday of Lent)*
O Cross of the Lord to which the world aspires, let the light-giving flashes of your grace lift up the hearts of those who honor you and welcome you with divine love, O you through which the dismay of tears has passed away, and by which we have been saved from the snares of death and carried up into imperishable joy. Through your Cross, O Lord, reveal to us the splendor of your beauty, granting the prize of abstinence to your servants who ask in faith for your generous help and your great mercy.
2. Joy to you, O life-bearing Cross, bright Paradise of the Church, Tree of incorruption: you have procured for us the enjoyment of everlasting glory. Through you, the hosts of devils are driven out, the choirs of angels rejoice as one, and the company of the faithful hold celebrations. Unconquerable Weapon, impregnable Foundation, Triumph of Kings and Pride of Priests: grant that we may be witnesses to Christ's passion and resurrection.
"Lord, Jesus Christ, have mercy upon me, a sinner."
"Lord, Jesus Christ, have mercy upon me, a sinner."