Forefeast of the Nativity of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ

Apolytikion in the Fourth Tone
Be thou ready, Bethlehem, Eden hath opened unto all. Ephratha,
prepare thyself, for now, behold, the Tree of life hath blossomed forth
in the cave from the Holy Virgin. Her womb hath proved a true
spiritual Paradise, wherein the divine and saving Tree is found, and as we
eat thereof we shall all live, and shall not die as did Adam. For
Christ is born now to raise the image that had fallen aforetime.

Kontakion in the Third Tone
On this day the Virgin cometh to a cave to give birth to God the
Word ineffable, Who was before all the ages. Dance for joy, O earth,
on hearing the gladsome tidings; with the Angels and the shepherds
now glorify Him Who is willing to be gazed on as a young Child Who
before the ages is God.