June 7
The holy martyr Theodotus, bishop of Ancyra and wonder-worker, tortured to death. He was a secret Christian who used to bury the bodies of the martyrs. When discovered he was attacked and killed. (303)
At Vespers
At "O Lord, I have cried": three stichera from the Octoechos, and three for the holy martyr.
Tone 1, special melody Nebesnych činov. With a joyful heart, you bravely went to your struggles, * O holy martyr, * fearing neither painful torments nor violent death; * thus, O Theodotus, * you were crowned with light after fighting the good fight.
By the rending of your flesh, * you slew the enemy, O blessed one; * and your words pierced their hearts like arrows. * With the streams of your own blood, * you put a complete halt to the encroaching waves of the godless.
You courageously endured the flames searing all your members. * When your back was broken by blows, * O holy martyr, you began to sing: * Neither death nor life nor any type of trial * can separate me from the love of the Lord!
Glory, now and ever – Theotokion, or Stavrotheotokion
The aposticha are from the Octoechos.
Troparion, Tone 4. You shared in the apostles’ way of life * and succeeded to their throne, * divinely inspired bishop. * You found access to contemplation in the active life. * Therefore, you rightly taught the word of truth * and struggled for the faith to the shedding of your blood. * O priest-martyr Theodotus, * pray to Christ our God to save our souls.
At the Divine Liturgy
music - see the June Menaion
Troparion, Tone 4. You shared in the apostles’ way of life * and succeeded to their throne, * divinely inspired bishop. * You found access to contemplation in the active life. * Therefore, you rightly taught the word of truth * and struggled for the faith to the shedding of your blood. * O priest-martyr Theodotus, * pray to Christ our God to save our souls.
Glory – Kontakion, Tone 1. Enlightening creation with miracles and sufferings, * you were truly a star of light, O blessed Theodotus. * Celebrating your famous memory today, * we praise Christ with a heart full of joy.
Prokeimenon, Tone 7 (Ps. 149:5,1).
Let the faithful rejoice in glory, * shout for joy, and take their rest.
V. Sing to the Lord a new song of praise in the assembly of the faithful.
Epistle: (of the day)
Alleluia, Tone 2 (Ps. 131:9,13). Alleuia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
V. Your priests will be clothed with righteousness and your saints will rejoice.
V. The Lord has chosen Zion; he prefers her for his dwelling.
Gospel: (of the day)
Communion Hymn (Ps. 111:6,7). The just man will be remembered forever; evil news he will not fear. Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!