St. John of Damascus Icono-Graphic | Orthodox Christian Saint | Red Gold & Black High Contrast Design | Heavyweight Cotton Unisex TeeStichera for the Dead by St. John of Damascus Tone 1 What pleasure in this life remains unmarked by sorrow? What glory can endure upon this earth unchanged? All is feebler than a shadow, more deceptive than a dream; for death in a single moment takes all things away. But in the light of Thy countenance, O Christ, and in the joy of Thy beauty, give rest to those whom Thou hast chosen, for Thou lovest mankind. Tone 2 As a flower withers and a dream

when He shall have delivered up the kingdom to God

- Hebrews 9:12

“For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul

but have eternal life

“Though a man may be found in a weak state

No more may gulls cry at their ears

- 1 Corinthians 10:16

and there were great voices in heaven

Everyone who exercises diligence with regard to virtue has in mind the future life

For the Father himself loveth you

I make all things new'—that is

Through the Theotokos have mercy on us