Akathist to Nicholas of Japan. Akathist to Equal-to-the-Apostles Nicholas of Japan: Prayers

Kondak 1

Chosen Miracle Worker and a fair servant of Christ, exude to the whole world the precious mercy of the world and the inexhaustible sea of miracles, I praise you with love, St. Nicholas; but you, as if you had boldness to the Lord, free me from all troubles, but I call you: Rejoice, Nicholas, great Wonderworker.

Ikos 1

An angel in the form of an earthly being by nature, show you the Creator of all creatures; having seen the fruitful kindness of your soul, most blessed Nicholas, teach everyone to cry out to you: Rejoice, cleansed from the womb; rejoice, even sanctified to the end. Rejoice, surprising you with the birth of your parents; Rejoice, revealing the strength of the soul Abie at Christmas. Rejoice, garden of the land of promise; Rejoice, flower of the Divine planting. Rejoice, virtuous vine of Christ's grapes; Rejoice, miraculous tree of the paradise of Jesus. Rejoice, krine of heavenly vegetation; Rejoice, peace of Christ's fragrance. Rejoice, for you will drive away sobbing; rejoice, for you bring joy. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 2

Seeing your world an outpouring, God-wise, we are enlightened with souls and bodies, the wonderful myrrh-bearing life-bearing, Nicholas, understanding: miracles are like waters pouring out by the grace of God, solder those who faithfully cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Unreasonable mind, admonishing about the Holy Trinity, you were in Nicaea with the holy fathers the champion of the confession of the Orthodox faith: you were equal to the Father of the Son, you confessed, coexistent and co-throne, Aria denounced the insane. For the sake of faith, I learned to sing to you: Rejoice, great pillar of piety; Rejoice, city of the faithful refuge. Rejoice, solid strengthening of Orthodoxy; Rejoice, the honest of the Most Holy Trinity also bore praise. Rejoice, thou who preachest the Son is equal to the Father; Rejoice, Aria, who was enraged, drove away from the Cathedral of Saints. Rejoice, father, glorious beauty of the fathers; Rejoice, wise kindness of all God-wise. Rejoice, emitting fiery words; Rejoice, instruct your flock well. Rejoice, as your faith is affirmed; Rejoice, for by you heresy is overthrown. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 3

With the power given to you from above, you took away every tear from the face of the suffering, God-bearing Father Nicholas: the hungry appeared to be the feeder, in the torch of the wrinkle existing a fair ruler, ailing healing, and every helper appeared to everyone, crying out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Having truly, Father Nicholas, from Heaven a song is sung to you to be, and not from the earth: how can anyone from a person be able to preach your holy greatness? But we, overcome by your love, cry out to you: Rejoice, in the form of lambs and shepherds; Rejoice, holy purifier of morals. Rejoice, receptacle of great virtues; Rejoice, holy and pure dwelling. Rejoice, all-bright and all-loving lamp; Rejoice, golden and immaculate light. Rejoice, worthy interlocutor of Angels; Rejoice, good teacher of men. Rejoice, rule of pious faith; Rejoice, the image of spiritual meekness. Rejoice, for by you we are getting rid of bodily passions; rejoice, for we are filled with spiritual sweetness by you. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 4

A storm of bewilderment confuses my mind, how worthy it is to sing your miracles, blessed Nicholas; no one else can I vanish, if only I had many languages and wanted to speak; but marvelously to God, who is glorified in you, we dare to sing: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Hearing, God-wise Nicholas, the near and far greatness of your miracles, as if through the air with light, grace-filled wings, you learned to anticipate those who are in trouble, soon delivering from those who cry out to you like this: Rejoice, deliverance from sorrow; rejoice, almsgiving of grace. Rejoice, banisher of unforeseen evils; Rejoice, desired planter of the good. Rejoice, speedy comforter of those in distress; Rejoice, terrible punisher of offenders. Rejoice, abyss of miracles, poured out by God; Rejoice, tablet of the law of Christ, God-written. Rejoice, strong falling erection; Rejoice, right standing affirmation. Rejoice, for by you all flattery is exposed; rejoice, for through you all truth comes true. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 5

The godly star appeared to you, instructing the floating lute on the sea, even though death is coming soon sometimes, if not you would appear calling you for help, the Wonderworker Saint Nicholas; it’s already shameful for a flying demon and forbidding those who want to sink ships, you drove them away, but the faithful taught you to cry out to God who saves you: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Seeing the damsels, for the marriage of nasty poverty for the sake of prepared, your great mercy to the poor, most blessed Father Nicholas, always gave three gold knots to the elder parent of their night hiding three gold, saving yourself with your daughters from the fall of sinful. For this sake, hear from everyone: Rejoice, great treasure of mercy; Rejoice, friend of thought about people. Rejoice, food and joy to those who resort to you; Rejoice, uneaten bread of the hungry. Rejoice, wealth given to the poor living on earth by God; Rejoice, quick exaltation of the poor. Rejoice, swift hearing of the poor; Rejoice, pleasant care of those who mourn. Rejoice, undefiled three virgins; Rejoice, zealous guardian of purity. Rejoice, unreliable hope; Rejoice, delight of the whole world. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 6

The whole world preaches to you, Blessed Nicholas, a quick intercessor in troubles, as if many times in one hour traveling on earth and sailing on the sea, anticipating, helping, saving everyone from the evil, crying out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

Thou hast shone the light of the animal, bringing deliverance to the governors, accepting unjust death to those who have, to you, good shepherd Nicholas, calling, when soon the king appeared in a dream, frightened him, and commanded those unharmed to be released. For this sake, it’s a lot with them, and we thankfully cry out to you: Rejoice, helping those who call on you diligently; Rejoice, delivering from the unrighteous murder. Rejoice, save slander from flattering; Rejoice, unrighteous destroy advice. Rejoice, tear the lie like a spider; rejoice, gloriously exalt the truth. Rejoice, resolution of the innocent from the bonds; rejoice, and resurrection of the dead. Rejoice, revealer of the truth; Rejoice, destroyer of unrighteousness. Rejoice, for by you the disobedient have been delivered from the sword; rejoice, for you have enjoyed the light. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 7

Although the blasphemous heretical drive away malice, the myrrh is truly fragrant, the mysterious appeared thou, Nicholas; Thou hast saved the people of Mirei, and Thou hast filled the whole world with His grace-filled peace. And from us, the godless sinful malice of otzheniye, yes, favorably to God, we cry out: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

We understand the new Noah, the mentor of the ark of salvation, Father Saint Nicholas, dispersing the storm of all the fierce ones with his direction, but bringing divine silence to those crying out like this: Rejoice, overwhelmed quiet haven; Rejoice, drowning well-known repository. Rejoice, good helmsman floating in the middle of the abyss; Rejoice, disturbing sea tiring. Rejoice, leading those who exist in whirlwinds; Rejoice, warming those who are in scum. Rejoice, radiance dispersing mournful darkness; Rejoice, luminary, enlightening the whole ends of the earth. Rejoice, delivering sinful people from the abyss; Rejoice, cast Satan into the abyss of hell. Rejoice, for by you boldly we invoke the abyss of God's mercy; rejoice, as if you were delivered from the flood of anger, we find peace with God. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 8

A strange miracle is flowing to you, blessed Nicholas, your sacred church: in it you bring even a small prayer, healing is acceptable for great ailments, if only according to Bose we put our hope in you, truly crying: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

You are truly a helper to everyone, God-bearing Nicholas, and you have gathered together all those who have resorted to you, like a liberator, feeder and quick doctor to all the earthly, to the praise of all, urging you to cry out to you: Rejoice, source of all healings; Rejoice, fierce helper to the suffering. Rejoice, dawn, shining in the night of sinful wanderers; Rejoice, dew is not flowing in the heat of labors. Rejoice, give well-being to those who require it; rejoice, prepare abundance for those who ask. Rejoice, foreseeing petition many times; Rejoice, renew the strength of old gray hairs. Rejoice, accuser of many who have erred from the path of the true; Rejoice, faithful servant of the mysteries of God. Rejoice, for by you we trample envy; rejoice, for we are correcting a good life with you. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 9

All quench the disease, our great intercessor Nicholas, dissolving the grace of healing, delighting our souls, but gladdening the hearts of all who diligently flow to your help, crying out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

We see the Vetias of the wisest wicked, put to shame by you, God-wise Father Nicholas: Aria is a blasphemer, dividing the Divinity, and Savellia, mixing the Holy Trinity, rebuked, but you strengthened us in Orthodoxy. For this sake, we cry out to you: Rejoice, shield, defend piety; Rejoice, sword, cut down wickedness. Rejoice, teacher of divine decrees; Rejoice, destroyer of ungodly teachings. Rejoice, ladder approved by God, by which we ascend to heaven; Rejoice, cover, created by God, by which many are covered. Rejoice, unwise wiser with your words; Rejoice, thou who instigated the lazy with thy manners. Rejoice, inextinguishable lightness of the commandments of God; Rejoice, most bright ray of the Lord's justifications. Rejoice, for heretical chapters are broken by your teaching; rejoice, for by you the faithful are worthy of glory. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 10

Thou hast truly conquered your soul, your flesh and spirit, our Father Nicholas: be silent before and struggle with thoughts, you have applied the thought of God to the deed, but you have acquired perfect mind with the thought of God, even boldly with God and the Angels you spoke, always crying out: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Thou wall to those who praise, most blessed, your miracles and all who resort to your intercession; the same for us, in the virtues of the poor, from poverty, adversity, ailments and the needs of various liberates, crying out to you with love like this: Rejoice, remove from eternal misery; Rejoice, granting imperishable wealth. Rejoice, indestructible to those who hunger for truth; Rejoice, inexhaustible drink for those who thirst for life. Rejoice, observe from rebellion and strife; Rejoice, freeing from bonds and captivity. Rejoice, glorious intercessor in troubles; Rejoice, great protector in adversity. Rejoice, thou who didst steal many from destruction; Rejoice, undamagedly preserving countless. Rejoice, for by you sinners avoid the cruel death; Rejoice, for by you the penitent receive Eternal Life. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 11

You brought the singing of the Most Holy Trinity more than others, most blessed Nicholas, in mind, word and deed: with many trials, the orthodox commandment was clarified by you, by faith, hope and love instructing us in the Trinity to the One God to sing: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

We see the luminous ray in the darkness of life, unquenchable, by God, the choice of Father Nicholas: with immaterial angelic lights you talk about the uncreated Trinity light, enlightening the faithful souls, crying out like this: Rejoice, illumination of the Three-Sunshine Light; Rejoice, morning day of the never-setting sun. Rejoice, candle, kindled by the Divine flame; Rejoice, for you have quenched the demonic flame of wickedness. Rejoice, bright orthodoxy preaching; Rejoice, translucent light of the gospel radiance. Rejoice, lightning, burning heresy; Rejoice, thunder, frightening seducer. Rejoice, true teacher of the mind; Rejoice, mysterious revealer of the mind. Rejoice, as if you trampled down the worship of the creature; rejoice, for we will learn to worship the Creator in the Trinity. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 12

The grace given to you from God, knowledgeable, rejoicing in your memory, we celebrate in due course, glorious Father Nicholas, and we wholeheartedly flow to your wonderful intercession; your glorious deeds, like the sand of the sea and the multitude of stars, cannot be counted, bewildered to embrace the former, we cry to God: Hallelujah.

Ikos 12

Singing your miracles, we praise thee, all-praise Nicholas: in you, God, glorified in the Trinity, marvelously glorified. But if and more and more psalms and songs composed from the heart, we bring thee, Holy Miracle Worker, we do nothing equal to the gift of your miracles, even wondering, we cry out to you like this: Rejoice, King of kings and Lord of lords to the servant; Rejoice, servants of His heavenly companion. Rejoice, help to the faithful people; Rejoice, kind of Christian exaltation. Rejoice, namesake of victory; rejoice, deliberately married. Rejoice, mirror of all virtues; Rejoice, for all those who come to you have a strong visor. Rejoice, according to Bose and the Mother of God, all our hope; Rejoice, health of our bodies and salvation of our souls. Rejoice, for through you we are freed from eternal death; rejoice, for we are worthy of you endless life. Rejoice, Nicholas, the great Wonderworker.

Kondak 13

O most holy and wonderful Father Nicholas, the consolation of all those who grieve, accept our present offering and deliver us from Gehenna, pray to the Lord with your God-pleasing intercession, and with you we sing: Alleluia.

(This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1)

Prayers to the Saint and Wonderworker Nicholas Archbishop of the World of Lycia

Prayer one

O our good shepherd and God-wise mentor, St. Nicholas of Christ! Hear us sinners, praying to you and calling for your help, your speedy intercession; see us weak, caught from everywhere, deprived of every good and darkened by the mind from cowardice; rush, servant of God, do not leave us in the sinful captivity of being, let us not be our enemy in joy and die in our evil deeds. Pray for us, our unworthy Creator and Lord, and you stand before him with incorporeal faces: be merciful to us, create our God in this life and in the future, let him not reward us according to our deeds and according to the impurity of our hearts, but according to your goodness, reward us . We hope for your intercession, we boast of your intercession, we call on your intercession for help, and we fall down to your most holy image, we ask for help: deliver us, saint of Christ, from the evils that are upon us, and tame the waves of passions and troubles that rise against us, but for the sake of Your holy prayers will not attack us and we will not be mired in the abyss of sin and in the mud of our passions. Moth, to St. Nicholas of Christ, Christ our God, give us a peaceful life and the remission of sins, but salvation and great mercy to our souls, now and ever and forever and ever.

Prayer two

O great intercessor, the bishop of God, blessed Nicholas, who shines miracles like a sunflower, who calls upon you as a quick hearer, you always anticipate and save, and deliver, and take away all kinds of troubles, from God given to you miracles and gifts of grace! Hear me unworthy, calling you with faith and bringing prayer to you singing; I offer you an intercessor for supplication to Christ. O notorious in miracles, high saint! as if you have boldness, soon stand before the Lord, and reverence your hands in prayer to Him, stretch out for me a sinner, and from Him give bounties of goodness, and accept me as your intercession, and deliver me from all troubles and evils, from the invasion of enemies visible and invisible freeing, and destroying all those slanders and malice, and reflecting those who fight me in my whole life; ask for forgiveness by my sin, and present me to Christ and save the Kingdom of Heaven for the multitude of that philanthropy, he deserves all glory, honor and worship, with his Father without beginning, and with the Most Holy and Good and Life-giving Spirit, now and forever and forever centuries.

Prayer three

O all-praised, great wonderworker, Saint of Christ, Father Nicholas! We pray to you, wake up the hope of all Christians, faithful protectors, hungry feeders, crying joy, sick doctors, floating rulers on the sea, feeders of the poor and orphans and an early helper and patron to everyone, let us live a peaceful life here and let us be able to see the glory of God's chosen ones in heaven and with them unceasingly sing of the One in the Trinity worshiped God forever and ever.

Prayer Four

O all-holy Nicholas, the Lord's most beautiful servant, our warm intercessor, and everywhere in sorrow a quick helper! Help me, a sinner and a dull one, in this present life, beg the Lord God to grant me the remission of all my sins, having sinned from my youth, in all my life, deed, word, thought and all my feelings; and at the end of my soul, help me, the damned one, implore the Lord God, all creatures of the Creator, to deliver me from air ordeals and eternal torment, may I always glorify the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit and your merciful intercession, now and ever and forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer Five

Oh, all-good Father Nicholas, shepherd and teacher of all who by faith flow to your intercession and call you with warm prayer! Quickly rush and deliver the flock of Christ from the wolves that destroy it; and protect every Christian country and save with your holy prayers, from worldly rebellion, coward, invasion of foreigners and internecine warfare, from famine, flood, fire and unnecessary death; and as if you had mercy on three men sitting in prison and delivered them from the king’s wrath and the cutting of the sword, so have mercy on me, mind, word and deed in the darkness of sins, deliver me the wrath of God and eternal punishment, as if by your intercession and help. By His mercy and grace, Christ God will give us a quiet and sinless life to live in this world and save me from standing, and vouchsafe the right hand with all the saints. Amen.

Prayer six

Oh, all-praiseful and all-honorable bishop, great miracle worker, Saint of Christ, Father Nicholas, man of God, and faithful to the servant, the husband of desires, the chosen vessel, the strong pillar of the church, the most bright lamp, the star shining and illuminating the whole universe, you are the righteous, like a phoenix that flourished planted in the courts of his Lord: living in Mirech, thou art fragrant with peace, and exude the ever-flowing peace of the grace of God. By your procession, Holy Father, the sea is sanctified, when your many miraculous relics go to the city of Barsky, from east to west praise the name of the Lord. Oh, graceful and amazing miracle worker, quick helper, warm intercessor, kind shepherd, saving the verbal flock from all troubles, we glorify you and magnify you, as the hope of all Christians, the source of miracles, the protector of the faithful, the wise teacher, those who are hungry for the feeder, weeping joy, naked robe, sick doctor, steward floating on the sea, captives of the liberator, widows and orphans of the feeder and intercessor, chastity of the guardian, babies of the meek punisher, old strengthening, fasting mentor, toiling repose, the poor and the wretched abundant wealth. Hear us praying to you and fleeing under your roof, manifest your intercession for us to the Most High and intercede with your God-pleasing prayers all that is useful for the salvation of our souls and bodies: save this holy monastery (or: this temple), every city and everything, and every the Christian country, and the people living, from all embitterment with your help: we are more, we are, as the prayer of the righteous can do much, hastening for good: you are righteous, according to the most blessed Virgin Mary, the intercessor to the All-Merciful God of the imam, and to yours, the good father, warm we humbly flow to intercession and intercession: you observe us like a cheerful and good shepherd, from all enemies, destruction, cowardice, hail, famine, flood, fire, sword, invasion of foreigners, and in all our troubles and sorrows, give us a helping hand and open the doors mercy of God; because we are not worthy to see the heights of heaven, from the multitude of our iniquities: bind us with the bonds of sin, and we will not save the will of our Creator, nor keep His commands. In the same way, we bow the knee of our broken and humble hearts to our Creator, and we ask for your fatherly intercession to him: help us, the servant of God, so that we do not perish with our iniquity, deliver us from all evil, and from all sorts of things resisting, rule our mind, and strengthen our heart in the right faith, in it with your intercession and intercession, neither by wounds, nor by prohibition, nor by pestilence, nor by any anger from our Creator will we diminish, but we will live a peaceful life here, and let us be able to see the good on the land of the living, glorifying Father and Son and Holy Spirit, one in the Trinity glorified and worshiped God, now and forever, and forever and ever. Amen.

Troparion to Saint Nicholas, Archbishop of Mir of Lycia

Troparion, tone 4

The rule of faith and the image of meekness, the abstinence of the teacher reveal the truth to your flock of things: for this sake you acquired high humility, rich in poverty. Father Hierarch Nicholas, pray to Christ God that our souls be saved.

Kontakion, tone 3

In Mirech, holy, the clergyman appeared to you: Christ, reverend, having fulfilled the Gospel, lay down your soul about your people, and saved the innocent from death; for this sake you were sanctified, like a great secret place of God's grace.

Troparion for the Nativity of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

Troparion, tone 4

Your miraculous and glorious Christmas, St. Nicholas, the Orthodox Church is celebrating today, for by standing your foot, the Lord will reveal you and proclaim to be a lamp and a teacher to the laity, enriching and enlightening miracles the whole world. We cry to you: pray to Christ God that our souls be saved.

Troparion for the transfer of the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra of Lycia

Troparion, tone 4

Have a day of bright triumph, the city of Barsky rejoices, and with it the whole universe rejoices with spiritual songs and stumps: today is a sacred celebration, in the transfer of the honest and multi-healing relics of St. crying rightly: save us as our representative, the great Nicholas.

Kontakion, tone 3

Rising, like a star, from east to west, your relics, Saint Nicholas, the sea is sanctified by your procession, and the city of Barsky accepts grace from you: you appeared to us more often, an elegant, marvelous and merciful miracle worker.

Troparion for the Transfer of the Velikoretsk Icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker from Vyatka to Moscow

Troparion, tone 3

Like precious wealth, come to us from the Great Vyatka River to our reigning city of Moscow, an honest icon of your image, St. Nicholas, and do many miracles in your coming, heal those who are sick and surprise all people. For this reason, by the command of the autocrat of the tsar, this honest icon of yours was written off from it for enlightenment and prayer to all the people of the royal city, today we see and worship it, praying to you, the mystery of Christ: pray, holy, for all of us, grant us peace and great mercy.

Troparion to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in front of his icon, called "Zaraisk"

Troparion, tone 4

Holy Temple of the Holy Spirit, God-wise Father Nicholas, sanctify our souls with the grace of heaven, intercede and cover with your all-honourable omophorion, you received it from the hands of the Most Pure Virgin, and enlighten us with the light of the commandments of Christ, from Him you received the words of life. Pray for the goodness of the Heavenly Father, in order to save those who honor you Orthodoxally, granting us great mercy.

magnificence

We magnify you, Saint Father Nicholas, and honor your holy memory: for you pray for us Christ our God.

Kondak 1

Chosen from the Russian clans to preach the gospel of Christ in the country of Japan, you laid down your soul for your fathers, affirming them in the true faith. Thy feats reverently, we praise thee: Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Japanese Church.

Ikos 1

An angel, like Tobiah, traveled to you, when in your young years you directed your steps to this country, which was far away. For this reason, we cry out to you: Rejoice, glorious birth of the Smolensk lands. Rejoice, beloved church from infancy. Rejoice, thou who did not leave the Mother of God of Smolensk Hodegetria in orphanhood. Rejoice, spiritually wise one. Rejoice, foreknowledge of your path at the all-night vigil. Rejoice, sweetness of the world, sane for nothing. Rejoice, you who have been awarded the rank of angels and priests. Rejoice, lustful preacher of the gospel. Rejoice, filled with pity for the ignorant. Rejoice, and distant ones, as if you loved your neighbors. Rejoice, fearless persecution for the faith. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 2

Seeing the exploits of St. Innocent, the God-wise Enlightener of the Siberian and Aleutian, Porevnov equal to the apostles to him, calling: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Thou didst show thy mind in humility, holiness, praying to the Lord for the gift of tongues: how I preach to a foreign people; How will I open the unskilful mouth; Hearing your words, God-loving, teaching your flock in her native language, we praise thee: Rejoice, conqueror of the love of Christ. Rejoice, nourisher of spiritual babies. Rejoice, thou who didst turn adversaries into children. Rejoice, having washed away their sins by baptism. Rejoice, fortifying the faith with knowledge. Rejoice, kind and diligent mentor. Rejoice, thou who appointed the presbyters of Japan. Rejoice, organizer of the church order. Rejoice, and defender of our fatherland. Rejoice, consent of the brotherly champion. Rejoice, lamp of the Orthodox faith. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 3

The power of the Most High autumn and strengthen you, father, when you came to a pagan country, executing the death of your sons for receiving holy baptism. But you, seeing the field of God, cried out: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Having unfeigned love, he imagined this country to be a bride adorned, a bridegroom awaiting marriage, for she knew the betrothal, stained with the blood of the martyrs of old, shone with the elders and crucified wives, and the children of Christ who confessed. Honoring your true hope, we glorify you: Rejoice, spiritual saint. Rejoice, fortified by the power of the Cross. Rejoice, unshakable pillar. Rejoice, fearless shepherd. Rejoice, untroubled mind. Rejoice, silent preacher. Rejoice, judging no one. Rejoice, you yourself are not condemned. Rejoice, communion of confessors. Rejoice, prayerful faithful. Rejoice, beloved guardian angel. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 4

A storm is stirred up by idolatry, who cannot endure the Christian spirit, seeing how the church is being built. You, rejoicing at the patience of your children, imprisoned in their dungeons, together with them exclaim: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Hear, as the teaching of Christ embraces all peoples and accepts them with equal honor, and as the Lord has prepared many abodes for them, men and women, children and elders, come to you, good shepherd, with the same we praise thee: Rejoice, gathered little flock of Christ. Rejoice, bring him to God by a narrow path. Rejoice, imitation of the church of Aquila with Priscilla. Rejoice, thou who didst establish the home churches here. Rejoice, blessed common meal. Rejoice, thou who did not leave thy faithful in trouble. Rejoice, thou who entrusted the weakest with a strong son. Rejoice, fatherly sovereignty of the weak. Rejoice, sowing wisely in the field of Christ. Rejoice, building the church on a hard stone. Rejoice, zealous slave, not hiding talent. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 5

Thou, Father, appeared as a godly star, serving the sun of truth ardently and bringing the faithful to the Lord, like the star of Bethlehem of old. We are clothed with light by you, we cry to Christ: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Seeing the temples of idols and Buddhist pagodas, weeping, praying, the righteous: where will I build a church for You, Lord; and the prayer of your mouth was heard: Rejoice, like a deer in the springs of water. Rejoice, thou who didst erect the temple of the Resurrection of Christ. Rejoice, thou who established the Cross over the capital city. Rejoice, ringing of bells that ascended to heaven. Rejoice, quenching the flame of grief at Christians. Rejoice, thou who acquired a good name among the people of Japan. Rejoice, thou who did not scold the ancient custom. Rejoice, having acquired a friend and brother among the people with Japan. Rejoice, light-bearer sent by God. Rejoice, faithful steward of the Lord. Rejoice, now crowned with heavenly glory. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 6

The preachers of the holy Gospel rejoice in the heavenly chambers, receiving you as a brother. But we, your relatives, having seen such mercy, let us sing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

Resplendent from the land of Smolensk, you combine with the saints of the Russian land: behold St. Demetrius of Rostov, spiritual tsevetnitsa: behold the Zadonsk praise of Tikhon, the collector of the clever treasure, behold Stefan, the Enlightener of Perm: Sergius, Seraphim, Zosima and Savvaty, Russian consolation: behold the saints, mysteries and apparitions, of our Fatherland Divine radiance. We, filled with great joy, glorify the new saint: Rejoice, son of the rural deacon. Rejoice, knowing misery in youth. Rejoice, you brought the vow of non-possession. Rejoice, observant monasticism until death. Rejoice, archpastor in multi-stitched robes. Rejoice, dwelling in miserable cells. Rejoice, thou who did not seek worldly things in the world. Rejoice, teacher of the newly enlightened. Rejoice, baptizer of the fishermen of Ain. Rejoice, having reached the far reaches. Rejoice, you who have grown companions in school. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 7

Although from the earth to the mountain, move, blessed speech: what is this body of mine, weakly tormented, if I can not work for the Lord; I leave this temple, crying out: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

A new celebration in the capital city is Japanese: Easter is celebrated by the saint in the church of the Tokyo Cathedral, and the people of Japan have come to know the true Easter of salvation. We, commemorating this day, cry loudly: Rejoice, thou who didst preserve love in the cruelest age. Rejoice, architect of the church feast. Rejoice, old man, do not let your eyes drift. Rejoice, father, meet the children with a kiss. Rejoice, placing your child before God. Rejoice, you who acquired the Spirit in everyday labors. Rejoice, mature fruits of your hands at the end. Rejoice, throwing the seed into the earth. Rejoice, bequeathed to us a beautiful tree. Rejoice, living bridge of the Christian World. Rejoice, rejoice angelically on the day of the Resurrection of Christ. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 8

Seeing strangely how the Japanese child of Christ is a brotherly servant of the Russian captives, let us sing a song to the Lord: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

You were all devoted to the service of God, serving people incessantly, combining both commandments. We tenderly glorify your royal path: Rejoice, clever servant of God. Rejoice, sacrificial sacrifice for the nations. Rejoice, guardian of the captive Russians. Rejoice, thou who did not leave thy children in the storm of war. Rejoice, faithfulness to the native fatherland. Rejoice, teacher of mercy and courage. Rejoice, chaste soul of the tempted. Rejoice, home of the outcasts. Rejoice, treasure of humility. Rejoice, devil of repentance. Rejoice, unconquerable love. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 9

Every tree is known by its fruit. The fruit of your many labors was the salvation of many people. Let us therefore proclaim: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

The Vetii, multi-talked, are amazed at your feat, the angels rejoice with you. But we, leading your humble life and mighty patience, praise thee: Rejoice, not of old, but now striving. Rejoice, in the form of an Orthodox archpastor. Rejoice, our deep conviction. Rejoice, sinful confession of Christ. Rejoice, true measure of prudence. Rejoice, treasure gathered in the spirit. Rejoice, squandering treasure for your neighbors. Rejoice, accept a thousandfold reward. Rejoice, full of immortal joy. Rejoice, comforting our struggles. Rejoice, fatherly accept prayers. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 10

The desperate people, who do not know the true God, strove to save. Now in the shadow of death, seeing the light, your children cry out: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Thou wall, Mother of God Virgin: the saint prayed warmly, affirming his church. Like on an island overwhelmed, among the infidels, she stayed without a shield of protection. But we, having seen her strength and fidelity, sing to you: Rejoice, covering the church with a reliable cover. Rejoice, betraying the converts to the Mother of God. Rejoice, thou who taught the maidens to pray. Rejoice, inspiring virgins in the light of chastity. Rejoice, consecrating Japanese families with an honest marriage. Rejoice, holy mirror of right judgments. Rejoice, bringing peace with settlement and hail. Rejoice, strengthened by faith in your needs. Rejoice, helping the elder father to death. Rejoice, having lived in the world, but free from the world. Rejoice, mourned by all at the end. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 11

All singing is conquered by your feat, O saint, with which word we embrace your apostolic service; I will speak to you: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

The light-receiving Church of Japan has preached the gospel in its own dialect from your work, the true enlightener. You have become like a universal teacher, turning the wisdom of your words into the service of heavenly wisdom. Honoring your good deeds, we praise thee: Rejoice, understanding of the Holy Scriptures. Rejoice, betraying him as a human child. Rejoice, worthy of speech resourceful. Rejoice, unfaithful and flattering one. Rejoice, thoughtful conciliar work with the Church. Rejoice, blessedly resting from labors. Rejoice, bringing the word closer to the people. Rejoice, divine service in the dialect of the paternal Japanese of the church was bestowed. Rejoice, reject all intricacies. Rejoice, nourishing with both milk and honey. Rejoice, thou who humbled the pride of false names. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 12

Grace rests upon you, showing the holiness of your service. Even if you did not perform miracles, like John the Baptist, moreover, the testimony and your church is newly built. By the miracle of God in the days of the last approved, but with one heart we sing with her: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing your glorification and to the face of the saints, our kinsman and shepherd, we praise thee: Rejoice, having established the church with your holiness in the last days. Rejoice, earthly torment oblivion. Rejoice, gentle wind of grace. Rejoice, helpers who ran to you. Rejoice, companions of the ascetic. Rejoice, good gardener and color guardian. Rejoice, correcting our disorder. Rejoice, stay your children in heavenly abodes. Rejoice, remember those who remember you. Rejoice, calmness of the stormy sea. Rejoice, star of the setting and east. Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 13

O most holy and wonderful, most glorious and wonderful to the enlightener of the country of Japan, our ever-present prayer book before the throne of the Holy Trinity, the holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Father Nicholas! Accept our present offering and implore the Savior God and His Most Pure Mother, that with your intercession, the peoples and our Russian country converted by you will enlighten with Orthodoxy; and deliver us from all the misfortunes of enemies, visible and invisible, destruction and sedition, troubles and sorrows, and give forgiveness of sins, and deliverance from eternal torment, and vouchsafe the Kingdom of Heaven, but together with you and all the saints of the Trinity of Saints forever and ever we sing: Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia

(This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1)

Prayers to St. Nicholas, Equal-to-the-Apostles, Archbishop of Japan

Prayer one

O most honorable and sacred head and filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit, the dwelling of the Savior with the Father, the great bishop, our warm intercessor, the holy hierarch, Equal-to-the-Apostles Nicholas of Japan. Standing at the throne of all the Tsar and enjoying the light of the consubstantial Trinity and cherubim with the angels proclaiming the song of the thrice-holy, having great and unexplored boldness to the all-merciful Master, pray to be saved by you converted to Christ, and all the flock of Christ people. Ask the Most High, the suffering country of Russia from the fierce atheists and their power, may the Lord liberate His faithful servants, in sorrow and sorrow crying out to him day and night, may he hear a painful cry and bring our belly from perdition, the prosperity of Orthodoxy in our country of Russia and let him confirm in the lands of Japan: let him adorn the bishops with the splendor of hierarchy, let the monastics to the exploits of a good flow, let him strengthen: the reigning cities and all the cities of the country will keep good. O holy saint! Die the whole world with your intercession: save us from hunger, thirst, destruction and sedition, from the elements that often find us, sin for the sake of our many, from corrupting winds, destructive ulcers and from attacks of foreign tribes. Old consolations, instruct young ones, make foolish ones, have mercy on widows, intercede for orphans, grow up babies, captivated and in prison sitting freedom and return. Heal the infirm, be a good helmsman floating, and all those who call on you warmly everywhere and flow to you with faith, and diligently fall down, and pray to you from slander and all kinds of misfortunes, the enemy of visible and invisible, troubles and all evil with your intercession of freedom. Pray for us the All-Generous and Human-loving Christ our God, may He forgive us all the sins committed by us from our youth, and on the day of His terrible coming He will deliver us from the shuyago standing and create the joys of the saints, the communicants, and together with them we glorify the One in the Trinity God, the Father and Son and Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer two

O All-Singing Mother. Mother of God of Smolensk, Hodegetria. Thou hast brought the Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas to the far reaches of Japan to preach the gospel of Your beloved son. Behold, I have done Thy will, O Lady. Stretch out Your blessing hand on Your servants, the child they turn to, and on us, who are in sins, so that by his prayers we will preserve the Orthodox faith forever and ever. Amen.

Troparion, tone 4

The apostles are of the same morals and the throne, the servant of Christ, faithful and God-wise, the chosen flower of the Divine Spirit, the vessel overflowing with the love of Christ, the land of Japan to the illuminator, Saint Nicholas, hierarch equal to the apostles, praying to the Life-giving Trinity for all your flock and for the whole world.

Kontakion, tone 4

The country of Japan welcomes the wanderer and the stranger, equal to the apostles to St. Nicholas, in it you first recognized yourself as a stranger, both exuding the warmth and light of Christ, you turned your enemies into spiritual sons, distributing the grace of God, you created the Church of Christ, about her now pray, and her sons and daughters cry out to you: Rejoice, our good shepherd.

Nikolai (Kasatkin)(1836 - 1912), Archbishop of Tokyo, hierarch, Saint Equal to the Apostles.

In the world Kasatkin Ivan Dmitrievich, Equal-to-the-Apostles Nicholas of Japan was born on August 1, 1836 in the village of Bereza, Velsky district, Smolensk province, in the family of a rural deacon. The child was named in honor of the glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.

Despite extreme poverty, the boy was sent to study first at the Velsk Theological School, and then at the Smolensk Seminary. In 1856, he brilliantly graduated from the seminary and was sent to the St. Petersburg Theological Academy at public expense, where he studied until 1860.

This year, Ivan noticed an announcement with an offer to send one of those who graduated from the academic course to Japan to take the place of rector of the Resurrection Church at the recently opened Russian consulate in Hakodate, and on the same day, during the vigil, he suddenly decided that he should accept monasticism and go to Japan. The rector of the academy, Bishop Nektary (Nadezhdin), blessed his impulse.

On June 23, 1860, he was tonsured a monk with the name Nicholas, and on June 30 he was ordained a hieromonk.

He spent the winter of 1860-1861 in Nikolaevsk-on-Amur, where he met with St. Innokenty (Veniaminov), the educator of Siberia and Alaska, who blessed him and advised him to take up the study of the Japanese language. Seeing the hieromonk's poor cassock, the saint bought good velvet and cut out the cassock for Father Nicholas himself, and also placed his award pectoral cross on him.

On July 2, 1861, Hieromonk Nicholas arrived at the Japanese port of Hakodate. In the conditions of civil war, attacks on foreigners and a strict ban on Christianity, the young preacher took up the diligent study of the Japanese language, history, culture and religions - Buddhism, Shintoism and Confucianism, achieving remarkable erudition even by Japanese standards after eight years.

The first Japanese convert to Orthodoxy, hieromonk Nicholas, was Takuma Sawabe, a former samurai, Shinto priest and excellent swordsman, who was baptized with two friends in April 1868. Since the Meiji Restoration took place in the same year, which turned Japan onto the path of reforms oriented towards European models, there were hopes to expand preaching and hieromonk Nikolai went to Russia in 1869 to ask permission from the Holy Synod to open a Russian spiritual mission in Japan. In 1870, Emperor Alexander II approved the decision of the Most Holy Synod on the establishment of the Japanese Ecclesiastical Mission under the authority of the Kamchatka episcopate under the authority of Nicholas, who was elevated to the rank of archimandrite.

In March 1871, Archimandrite Nicholas returned to Hakodate. The preaching of the gospel continued so successfully that when, at the beginning of 1872, Hieromonk Anatoly (Tihai) arrived in Hakodate to help found the Mission, Archimandrite Nicholas moved to Tokyo, the capital of Japan, where he soon set about setting up the headquarters of the Mission. By 1874, when Bishop Pavel (Popov) of Kamchatka arrived in Tokyo to ordain candidates from the local population recommended by Archimandrite Nikolai, there were four schools operating at the Mission in Tokyo - catechism, seminary, women's and clergy, and two in Hakodate - for boys and girls. In the second half of 1877, the Mission began to publish regularly the magazine Kyokai hoochi (Church Bulletin), and by 1878 there were already 4115 Christians in Japan, there were numerous Christian communities. In the same year, the saint turned to the Holy Synod with a request to send a bishop for the young Japanese Church, and in response he himself was assigned to this ministry.

Being summoned to Russia for consecration, in 1879-1880 Archimandrite Nikolai visited St. Petersburg, Moscow, Kazan, Kyiv and Odessa, collecting voluntary donations for the construction of a cathedral in Tokyo. With active support from Russia, the cathedral was consecrated on March 8, 1891, becoming one of the greatest buildings of the Japanese capital, widely known among the Japanese as "Nikorai-doo" ("Temple of Nicholas") in honor of the illuminator of Japan.

On March 17, 1880, the Most Holy Synod decreed "Archimandrite Nikolai to be Bishop of Reval, Vicar of the Diocese of Riga, with secondment to Japan." On March 27 of the same year, the naming followed, and on March 30, the consecration as a bishop. The consecration in the Trinity Cathedral of the Alexander Nevsky Lavra was performed by Metropolitans Isidore of Novgorod and St. Petersburg, Philotheus of Kyiv and Galicia, Macarius of Moscow and Kolomna; Bishops Apollos of Vyatka and Sloboda, Pallady of Ryazan and Zaraisky, Filaret of Riga and Mitavsky, Hermogen of Ladoga and Varlaam of Vyborg.

In May 1891, an attempt was made on the life of Tsarevich Nikolai Alexandrovich during his stay in Japan, but the personal intercession of Bishop Nikolai played an important role in preventing a Russo-Japanese clash. When the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905 nevertheless broke out, Bishop Nikolai, the only Russian subject, remained with his flock in Japan and organized the care of Russian prisoners of war, whose total number reached 73 thousand. Bishop Nikolai, starting from his arrival in Japan and until the last days put translation activities at the forefront. Even in Hakodate, he began the translation of the New Testament, consulting the Greek, Latin, Slavic, Russian, Chinese and English texts of Scripture, as well as the interpretations of St. John Chrysostom. The saint continued his labors in Tokyo, translating the Octoechos, the Colored and Lenten Triodion, the entire Gospel and parts of the Old Testament necessary for the celebration of the yearly cycle of services. Not trusting non-Orthodox translations, Bishop Nicholas painstakingly created an accurate Orthodox translation, spending four hours a day at work with his assistant Pavel Nakai, who was well educated in the Confucian classics and devoted to Orthodoxy.

The activities of Bishop Nicholas during the war were highly appreciated both in Japan and in Russia. In Japan, he became known throughout the country and was revered by many as a saint.

After the arrival in 1908 of Bishop Sergius (Tikhomirov) at the newly founded vicar cathedra of Kyoto, the saint found a long-awaited heir.

Archbishop Nicholas died on February 3, 1912, at the age of 76 and 51 of missionary service in Japan. The funeral took place with a huge gathering of people, both Christians and other Japanese and foreigners. Even the Japanese Emperor Meiji sent a wreath to the saint's funeral, the first time such an honor had been given to a foreign missionary.

St. Nicholas left behind a cathedral, 8 temples, 175 churches, 276 parishes, one bishop, 34 priests, 8 deacons, 115 preachers and 34,110 Orthodox believers in Japan, laying a solid foundation for the Japanese Orthodox Church.

Long revered in Japan, St. Nicholas Equal-to-the-Apostles, Archbishop of Japan, was glorified as a saint by the Russian Orthodox Church on April 10, 1970.

Relics and veneration

The veneration of the saint began during his lifetime and manifested itself during an unprecedented funeral. The chips from his coffin were preserved by the people as a shrine. The holy relics of the archbishop were interred at the Yanaka Cemetery, one of the most respected cemeteries in the Japanese capital.

Not only the Orthodox honored the memory of the great pastor, but all of Japan knew and revered the saint. Even 58 years after his death, when during the canonization the believers wanted to transfer his holy relics to the cathedral, they were not allowed to do so, saying that St. Nicholas belongs to the entire Japanese people, regardless of religion, and his remains should remain in the national cemetery. Thus, the relics of St. Nicholas Equal-to-the-Apostles to this day rest in the Yanaka cemetery, but some of the extracted particles of them are still in different churches: in the Tokyo Cathedral there is a relic of St. Nicholas, an icon with particles of relics recently appeared in Hakodate, in 2003 the Metropolitan of Tokyo Daniel donated a piece of the missionary's relics to the parish in his homeland, in the village of Bereza, and on September 17, 2008, as a gift from the Vladivostok diocese, to the Vladivostok Assumption Church. A particle of the relics of the saint is also found in the St. Nicholas Metropolitan Cathedral of the Orthodox Church in America in Washington.

In every temple of the Japanese Church, at every liturgy, a troparion to the Equal-to-the-Apostles is sung, his name is commemorated at the dismissal, and there is also an icon or fresco of the patron saint of this land. There are also several churches consecrated in the name of the Enlightener of Japan: a chapel on the territory of the Resurrection Cathedral in Tokyo, transformed in 2005 into an Orthodox monastery, one of the chapels of the Tokyo Cathedral itself, the Church of St. Nicholas in Maebashi. In Russia, in the homeland of Equal-to-the-Apostles, already in many churches you can see frescoes and icons of the saint, and in recent years churches in the village of Mirny (near the village of Bereza, native to the saint) were consecrated in his name in 2003 and in the basement of the church under construction in honor of Cathedral of Moscow Saints (Moscow, Bibirevo) in 2005.

The missionary is also honored in many other countries. Thus, St. Nicholas in the Orthodox history of China is associated with the first Chinese priest and saint, Hieromartyr Mitrofan, whom Bishop Nicholas ordained as a presbyter in 1882. In Korea, they remember his missionary assistance and training of Korean Orthodox pastors at the Tokyo Theological Seminary under the direction of the saint. Finland and Bulgaria have their own images of the saint. In Johannesburg (South Africa) in 1987, a society named after St. Nicholas of Japan was created, which later became a parish of the Patriarchate of Alexandria. The saint is also revered in America, where a historical collection dedicated to him was published, and in 2004 in Plymouth, California, a parish of the American Orthodox Church was formed in the name of Equal-to-the-Apostles Nicholas of Japan.

Kondak 1

Ikos 1

Kondak 2

Seeing the exploits of St. Innocent, the God-wise Enlightener of the Siberian and Aleutian, Porevnov equal to the apostles to him, calling: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Kondak 3

Ikos 3

Kondak 4

Ikos 4

Kondak 5

Ikos 5

Kondak 6

The preachers of the holy Gospel rejoice in the heavenly chambers, receiving you as a brother. But we, your relatives, having seen such mercy, let us sing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

Kondak 7

Although from the earth to the mountain, move, blessed speech: what is this body of mine, weakly tormented, if I can not work for the Lord; I leave this temple, crying out: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

Kondak 8

Seeing strangely how the Japanese child of Christ is a brotherly servant of the Russian captives, let us sing a song to the Lord: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

Kondak 9

Every tree is known by its fruit. The fruit of your many labors was the salvation of many people. Let us therefore proclaim: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

Kondak 10

The desperate people, who do not know the true God, strove to save. Now in the shadow of death, seeing the light, your children cry out: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Kondak 11

All singing is conquered by your feat, O saint, with which word we embrace your apostolic service; I will speak to you: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

Kondak 12

Ikos 12

Kondak 13

(This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1)

Prayers to St. Nicholas, Equal-to-the-Apostles, Archbishop of Japan

Prayer one

Prayer two

Troparion to Nicholas, archbishop. Japanese

pray to the Life-Giving Trinity
about all your flock
and about the whole world.

Troparion to Equal-to-the-Apostles Nicholas of Japan

Apostles of the same equal and equal throne,
faithful and God-wise servant of Christ,
the spring chosen by the Divine Spirit,
a vessel overflowing with the love of Christ,
Japanese land to the enlightener,
Saint Nicholas, Hierarch Equal to the Apostles,
pray to the Life-Giving Trinity
about all your flock and about the whole world.

Encyclopedia "Tree"

Ikos 1

An angel, like Tobiah, traveled to you, when in your young years you directed your steps to this country, which was far away. For this sake, we cry out to you:

Rejoice, glorious birth of the Smolensk lands.

Rejoice, beloved church from infancy.

Rejoice, thou who did not leave the Mother of God of Smolensk Hodegetria in orphanhood.

Rejoice, spiritually wise one.

Rejoice, foreknowledge of your path at the all-night vigil.

Rejoice, sweetness of the world, sane for nothing.

Rejoice, you who have been awarded the rank of angels and priests.

Rejoice, lustful preacher of the gospel.

Rejoice, filled with pity for the ignorant.

Rejoice, and distant ones, as if you loved your neighbors.

Rejoice, fearless persecution for the faith.

Kondak 2

Seeing the exploits of St. Innocent, the God-wise Enlightener of the Siberian and Aleutian, Porevnov equal to the apostles to him, calling: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Rejoice, conqueror of the love of Christ.

Rejoice, nourisher of spiritual babies.

Rejoice, thou who didst turn adversaries into children.

Rejoice, having washed away their sins by baptism.

Rejoice, fortifying the faith with knowledge.

Rejoice, kind and diligent mentor.

Rejoice, thou who appointed the presbyters of Japan.

Rejoice, organizer of the church order.

Rejoice, and defender of our fatherland.

Rejoice, consent of the brotherly champion.

Rejoice, lamp of the Orthodox faith.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 3

Ikos 3

Rejoice, spiritual saint.

Rejoice, fortified by the power of the Cross.

Rejoice, unshakable pillar.

Rejoice, fearless shepherd.

Rejoice, untroubled mind.

Rejoice, silent preacher.

Rejoice, judging no one.

Rejoice, you yourself are not condemned.

Rejoice, communion of confessors.

Rejoice, prayerful faithful.

Rejoice, beloved guardian angel.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 4

Ikos 4

Hear, as the teaching of Christ embraces all nations and accepts them with equal honor, and as if the Lord has prepared many abodes for them, men and women, children and elders, come to you, good shepherd, we praise you with the same:

Rejoice, gathered little flock of Christ.

Rejoice, bring him to God by a narrow path.

Rejoice, imitation of the church of Aquila with Priscilla.

Rejoice, thou who didst establish the home churches here.

Rejoice, blessed common meal.

Rejoice, thou who did not leave thy faithful in trouble.

Rejoice, thou who entrusted the weakest with a strong son.

Rejoice, fatherly sovereignty of the weak.

Rejoice, sowing wisely in the field of Christ.

Rejoice, building the church on a hard stone.

Rejoice, zealous slave, not hiding talent.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 5

Ikos 5

Seeing the temples of idols and Buddhist pagodas, weeping, praying, the righteous: where will I build a church for You, Lord; and the prayer of your mouth was heard:

Rejoice, like a deer in the springs of water.

Rejoice, thou who didst erect the temple of the Resurrection of Christ.

Rejoice, thou who established the Cross over the capital city.

Rejoice, ringing of bells that ascended to heaven.

Rejoice, quenching the flame of grief at Christians.

Rejoice, thou who acquired a good name among the people of Japan.

Rejoice, thou who did not scold the ancient custom.

Rejoice, having acquired a friend and brother among the people with Japan.

Rejoice, light-bearer sent by God.

Rejoice, faithful steward of the Lord.

Rejoice, now crowned with heavenly glory.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 6

The preachers of the holy Gospel rejoice in the heavenly chambers, receiving you as a brother. But we, your relatives, having seen such mercy, let us sing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

Rejoice, son of a rural deacon.

Rejoice, knowing misery in youth.

Rejoice, you brought the vow of non-possession.

Rejoice, observant monasticism until death.

Rejoice, archpastor in multi-stitched robes.

Rejoice, dwelling in miserable cells.

Rejoice, thou who did not seek worldly things in the world.

Rejoice, teacher of the newly enlightened.

Rejoice, baptizer of the fishermen of Ain.

Rejoice, having reached the far reaches.

Rejoice, you who have grown companions in school.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 7

Although from the earth to the mountain, move, blessed speech: what is this body of mine, weakly tormented, if I can not work for the Lord; I leave this temple, crying out: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

Rejoice, thou who didst preserve love in thy life with cruelty.

Rejoice, architect of the church feast.

Rejoice, old man, do not let your eyes drift.

Rejoice, father, meet the children with a kiss.

Rejoice, placing your child before God.

Rejoice, you who acquired the Spirit in everyday labors.

Rejoice, mature fruits of your hands at the end.

Rejoice, throwing the seed into the earth.

Rejoice, bequeathed to us a beautiful tree.

Rejoice, living bridge of the Christian World.

Rejoice, rejoice angelically on the day of the Resurrection of Christ.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 8

Seeing strangely how the Japanese child of Christ is a brotherly servant of the Russian captives, let us sing a song to the Lord: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

You were all devoted to the service of God, serving people incessantly, combining both commandments. We tenderly glorify your royal path:

Rejoice, clever servant of God.

Rejoice, sacrificial sacrifice for the nations.

Rejoice, guardian of the captive Russians.

Rejoice, thou who did not leave thy children in the storm of war.

Rejoice, faithfulness to the native fatherland.

Rejoice, teacher of mercy and courage.

Rejoice, chaste soul of the tempted.

Rejoice, home of the outcasts.

Rejoice, treasure of humility.

Rejoice, devil of repentance.

Rejoice, unconquerable love.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 9

Every tree is known by its fruit. The fruit of your many labors was the salvation of many people. Let us therefore proclaim: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

The Vetii, multi-talked, are amazed at your feat, the angels rejoice with you. But we, leading your humble life and mighty patience, praise thee:

Rejoice, not of old, but now ascetic.

Rejoice, in the form of an Orthodox archpastor.

Rejoice, our deep conviction.

Rejoice, sinful confession of Christ.

Rejoice, true measure of prudence.

Rejoice, treasure gathered in the spirit.

Rejoice, squandering treasure for your neighbors.

Rejoice, accept a thousandfold reward.

Rejoice, full of immortal joy.

Rejoice, comforting our struggles.

Rejoice, fatherly accept prayers.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 10

The desperate people, who do not know the true God, strove to save. Now in the shadow of death, seeing the light, your children cry out: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Rejoice, covering the church with a reliable cover.

Rejoice, betraying the converts to the Mother of God.

Rejoice, thou who taught the maidens to pray.

Rejoice, inspiring virgins in the light of chastity.

Rejoice, consecrating Japanese families with an honest marriage.

Rejoice, holy mirror of right judgments.

Rejoice, bringing peace with settlement and hail.

Rejoice, strengthened by faith in your needs.

Rejoice, helping the elder father to death.

Rejoice, having lived in the world, but free from the world.

Rejoice, mourned by all at the end.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 11

All singing is conquered by your feat, O saint, with which word we embrace your apostolic service; I will speak to you: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

Rejoice, thou who understandest the Holy Scriptures.

Rejoice, betraying him as a human child.

Rejoice, worthy of speech resourceful.

Rejoice, unfaithful and flattering one.

Rejoice, thoughtful conciliar work with the Church.

Rejoice, blessedly resting from labors.

Rejoice, bringing the word closer to the people.

Rejoice, divine service in the dialect of the paternal Japanese of the church was bestowed.

Rejoice, reject all intricacies.

Rejoice, nourishing with both milk and honey.

Rejoice, thou who humbled the pride of false names.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 12

Ikos 12

Singing your glorification and to the face of the saints, our kinsman and shepherd, we praise thee:

Rejoice, having established the church with your holiness in the last days.

Rejoice, earthly torment oblivion.

Rejoice, gentle wind of grace.

Rejoice, helpers who ran to you.

Rejoice, companions of the ascetic.

Rejoice, good gardener and color guardian.

Rejoice, correcting our disorder.

Rejoice, stay your children in heavenly abodes.

Rejoice, remember those who remember you.

Rejoice, calmness of the stormy sea.

Rejoice, star of the setting and east.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 13

(This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1)

Troparion, tone 4

Kontakion, tone 4

Kondak 1

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Japanese Church.

Ikos 1

Kondak 2

Ikos 2

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 3

Ikos 3

Rejoice, spiritual saint.

Rejoice, untroubled mind.

Rejoice, judging no one.

Rejoice, you yourself are not condemned.

Rejoice, prayerful faithful.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 4

Ikos 4

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 5

Ikos 5

Rejoice, like a deer in the springs of water.

Rejoice, thou who acquired a good name among the people of Japan.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 6

Ikos 6

Rejoice, you brought the vow of non-possession.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 7

Although from the earth to the mountain, move, blessed speech: what is this body of mine, weakly tormented, if I can not work for the Lord; I leave this temple, crying out: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 8

Ikos 8

Rejoice, treasure of humility.

Rejoice, devil of repentance.

Rejoice, unconquerable love.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 9

Ikos 9

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 10

Ikos 10

Rejoice, inspiring virgins in the light of chastity.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 11

Ikos 11

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 12

Ikos 12

Rejoice, calmness of the stormy sea.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 13

Troparion, tone 4

Kontakion, tone 4

Kondak 1

Chosen from the Russian clans to preach the gospel of Christ in the country of Japan, you laid down your soul for your fathers, affirming them in the true faith. Thy deeds reverently, we praise thee to the sit:

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles? Saint Nicholas, Church of Japan representative.

Ikos 1

An angel, like Tobiah, traveled to you, when in your young years you directed your steps to this country, which was far away. For this sake, we cry out to you:

Rejoice, glorious birth of the Smolensk lands.

Rejoice, beloved church from infancy.

Rejoice, thou who did not leave the Mother of God of Smolensk Hodegetria in orphanhood.

Rejoice, spiritually wise one.

Rejoice, foreknowledge of your path at the all-night vigil.

Rejoice, sweetness of the world, sane for nothing.

Rejoice, you who have been awarded the rank of angels and priests.

Rejoice, lustful preacher of the gospel.

Rejoice, filled with pity for the ignorant.

Rejoice, and distant ones, as if you loved your neighbors.

Rejoice, fearless persecution for the faith.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 2

Seeing the exploits of St. Innocent, the God-wise Enlightener of the Siberian and Aleutian, Porevnov equal to the apostles to him, calling: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Mind in humility? thou hast revealed, holiness, praying to the Lord for the gift of tongues: how I preach to a foreign people; How will I open the unskilful mouth; Hearing your words, God-loving, teaching your flock in her native language, we praise you:

Rejoice, conqueror of the love of Christ.

Rejoice, nourisher of spiritual babies.

Rejoice, thou who didst turn adversaries into children.

Rejoice, having washed away their sins by baptism.

Rejoice, fortifying the faith with knowledge.

Rejoice, kind and diligent mentor.

Rejoice, thou who appointed the presbyters of Japan.

Rejoice, organizer of the church order.

Rejoice, and defender of our fatherland.

Rejoice, consent of the brotherly champion.

Rejoice, lamp of the Orthodox faith.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 3

The power of the Most High autumn and strengthen you, father, when you came to a pagan country,? executing the death of her sons for receiving holy baptism. But you, seeing the field of God, cried out: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Rejoice, spiritual saint.

Rejoice, fortified by the power of the Cross.

Rejoice, unshakable pillar.

Rejoice, fearless shepherd.

Rejoice, untroubled mind.

Rejoice, silent preacher.

Rejoice, judging no one.

Rejoice, you yourself are not condemned.

Rejoice, communion of confessors.

Rejoice, prayerful faithful.

Rejoice, beloved guardian angel.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 4

A storm is stirred up by idolatry, who cannot endure the Christian spirit, seeing how the church is being built. Are you rejoicing at the patience of your children, imprisoned in the dungeons of the dungeon, do you? shout with them: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Rejoice, gathered little flock of Christ.

Rejoice, bring him to God by a narrow path.

Rejoice, imitation of the church of Aquila with Priscilla.

Rejoice, thou who didst establish the home churches here.

Rejoice, blessed common meal.

Rejoice, thou who did not leave thy faithful in trouble.

Rejoice, thou who entrusted the weakest with a strong son.

Rejoice, fatherly sovereignty of the weak.

Rejoice, sowing wisely in the field of Christ.

Rejoice, building the church on a hard stone.

Rejoice, zealous slave, not hiding talent.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 5

Ikos 5

Seeing the temples of idols and Buddhist pagodas, weeping, praying, the righteous: where will I build a church for You, Lord; and the prayer of your mouth was heard:

Rejoice, like a deer? at water sources.

Rejoice, thou who didst erect the temple of the Resurrection of Christ.

Rejoice, thou who established the Cross over the capital city.

Rejoice, ringing of bells that ascended to heaven.

Rejoice, quenching the flame of grief at Christians.

Rejoice, good name acquired? in the people of Japan.

Rejoice, thou who did not scold the ancient custom.

Rejoice, having acquired a friend and brother among the people with Japan.

Rejoice, light-bearer sent by God.

Rejoice, faithful steward of the Lord.

Rejoice, now crowned with heavenly glory.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 6

The preachers of the holy Gospel rejoice in the heavenly chambers, receiving you as a brother. But we, your relatives, having seen such mercy, let us sing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

Rejoice, son of a rural deacon.

Rejoice, knowing misery in youth.

Rejoice, vow? brought non-covetousness.

Rejoice, observant monasticism until death.

Rejoice, archpastor in multi-stitched robes.

Rejoice, dwelling in miserable cells.

Rejoice, thou who did not seek worldly things in the world.

Rejoice, teacher of the newly enlightened.

Rejoice, baptizer of the fishermen of Ain.

Rejoice, having reached the far reaches.

Rejoice, you who have grown companions in school.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 7

Although from the earth to the mountain? settle down, blessed speech: what is this body of mine, weak and languishing, if I cannot work for the Lord; I leave this temple, crying out: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

Rejoice, thou who didst preserve love in thy life with cruelty.

Rejoice, architect of the church feast.

Rejoice, old man, do not let your eyes drift.

Rejoice, father, meet the children with a kiss.

Rejoice, placing your child before God.

Rejoice, you who acquired the Spirit in everyday labors.

Rejoice, mature fruits of your hands at the end.

Rejoice, throwing the seed into the earth.

Rejoice, bequeathed to us a beautiful tree.

Rejoice, living bridge of the Christian World.

Rejoice, rejoice angelically on the day of the Resurrection of Christ.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 8

Seeing strangely how the Japanese child of Christ is a brotherly servant of the Russian captives, let us sing a song to the Lord: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

You were all devoted to the service of God, serving people incessantly, combining both commandments. We tenderly glorify your royal path:

Rejoice, clever servant of God.

Rejoice, sacrificial sacrifice for the nations.

Rejoice, guardian of the captive Russians.

Rejoice, thou who did not leave thy children in the storm of war.

Rejoice, faithfulness to the native fatherland.

Rejoice, teacher of mercy and courage.

Rejoice, chaste soul of the tempted.

Rejoice, home of the outcasts.

Rejoice, treasure of humility.

Rejoice, devil of repentance.?

Rejoice, unconquerable love.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 9

Every tree is known by its fruit. The fruit of your many labors was the salvation of many people. Let us therefore proclaim: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

The Vetii, multi-talked, are amazed at your feat, the angels rejoice with you. But we, leading your humble life and mighty patience, praise thee:

Rejoice, not of old, but now ascetic.

Rejoice, in the form of an Orthodox archpastor.

Rejoice, our deep conviction.

Rejoice, sinful confession of Christ.

Rejoice, true measure of prudence.

Rejoice, treasure gathered in the spirit.

Rejoice, squandering treasure for your neighbors.

Rejoice, accept a thousandfold reward.

Rejoice, full of immortal joy.

Rejoice, comforting our struggles.

Rejoice, fatherly accept prayers.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 10

The desperate people, who do not know the true God, strove to save. Now in the shadow of death, seeing the light, your children cry out: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Rejoice, covering the church with a reliable cover.

Rejoice, betraying the converts to the Mother of God.

Rejoice, thou who taught the maidens to pray.

Rejoice, light of chastity? suggestive to girls.

Rejoice, consecrating Japanese families with an honest marriage.

Rejoice, holy mirror of right judgments.

Rejoice, bringing peace with settlement and hail.

Rejoice, strengthened by faith in your needs.

Rejoice, helping the elder father to death.

Rejoice, having lived in the world, but free from the world.

Rejoice, mourned by all at the end.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 11

All singing is conquered by your feat, O saint, with which word we embrace your apostolic service; I will speak to you: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

Rejoice, thou who understandest the Holy Scriptures.

Rejoice, betraying him as a human child.

Rejoice, worthy of speech resourceful.

Rejoice, unfaithful and flattering one.

Rejoice, thoughtful conciliar work with the Church.

Rejoice, blessedly resting from labors.

Rejoice, bringing the word closer to the people.

Rejoice, divine service in the dialect of the paternal Japanese of the church was bestowed.

Rejoice, reject all intricacies.

Rejoice, nourishing with both milk and honey.

Rejoice, thou who humbled the pride of false names.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 12

Ikos 12

Singing your glorification and to the face of the saints, our kinsman and shepherd, we praise thee:

Rejoice, having established the church with your holiness in the last days.

Rejoice, earthly torment oblivion.

Rejoice, gentle wind of grace.

Rejoice, helpers who ran to you.

Rejoice, companions of the ascetic.

Rejoice, good gardener and color guardian.

Rejoice, correcting our disorder.

Rejoice, stay your children in heavenly abodes.

Rejoice, remember those who remember you.

Rejoice, calmness of the stormy sea.

Rejoice, star of the setting and east.

Rejoice, Equal-to-the-Apostles Saint Nicholas, representative of the Church of Japan.

Kondak 13

O most holy and wonderful, most glorious and wonderful enlightener of the country of Japan, our daily prayer book before the throne of the Holy Trinity,? Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Father Nicholas! Accept our present offering and implore the Savior God and His Most Pure Mother, that with your intercession, the peoples and our Russian country converted by you will enlighten with Orthodoxy; and deliver us from all the misfortunes of enemies, visible and invisible, destruction and sedition, troubles and sorrows, and give forgiveness of sins, and deliverance from eternal torment, and vouchsafe the Kingdom of Heaven, but together with you and all the saints of the Trinity of Saints forever and ever we sing: Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia

(This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1)

Troparion, tone 4

Kontakion, tone 4

Prayer to Saint Nicholas, Equal-to-the-Apostles, Archbishop of Japan

interpretation

Commemorated: February 3 / 16 Great missionary of our time. For half a century of his service in the Japanese Orthodox Church, by 1911 there were 266 communities, 33,017 Christians, 1 archbishop, 1 bishop, 35 priests, 6 deacons, 14 singing teachers, 116 catechizer preachers. Saint Nicholas of Japan is the patron saint of missionaries, catechists, church clergy. They pray to him for help in the unbelief and lack of faith of relatives and acquaintances, for help in studying, learning languages, for admonishing and converting non-Christians and those of little faith, for the return to the bosom of the Church of people who have fallen into sects.