THE HOLY FEMALE MARTYRS MARTHA AND MARY AND THEIR BROTHER LYCARION

February 6

From the Prologue

All three were crucified for Christ and then pierced and slain with a lance.

HYMN OF PRAISE

SAINTS MARTHA AND MARY

SAINT LYCARION

Saints Martha and Mary, sisters by birth,

Lycarion their small brother, of little strength;

The aged mother; sweet soul, teaches them very well:

"Love Christ my children, for He suffered for us."

From out of there the commander comes; awesome and powerful,

Ill-tempered man; he slays those faithful to Christ.

Of their home, the sisters opened the door,

Of the ill-tempered man, they are not afraid at all.

"Harken O commander of the Emperor, we are Christians,

Like you, we are not; whom the demon sold to the devil."

On a cross, the ill-tempered commander raised them,

At that moment, the young Lycarion, drew near:

"And I, and I, a Christian am; crucify me also!"

The pains on the Cross are unbearable, the mother horrified,

From leg to leg, to her children, her kisses she imparts;

With a tormented voice from the Cross; the daughters' console her:

"For us, dearest mother, with sorrow, do not be broken up,

Love for Christ, you taught us,

For temporary pains, sweet pleasure will be in Paradise,

In the radiance of Paradise, we will await you mother.

Lycarion, your glorious son and your daughters two

O rejoice in such a fruit of your womb!"

As a fiery pillar, the mother's countenance lighted up:

"My dear children, blessed be you; O blessed be me!"