I come to Thee, O Christ, blind from birth in my spiritual eyes, and I call to Thee in repentance:  Thou art the most radiant Light of those in darkness!   (Kontakion)

O Christ our God hast ascended in glory, granting joy to Thy disciples by the promise of the Holy Spirit.  Through the blessing they were assured that Thou art the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world.  (Troparion for the Ascension)

Be strong and of good courage; be not frightened, neither be dismayed; for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9)

. The Church observes the Nativity of St. John the Baptist as a feast day, an honor only shared by the Holy Virgin Mary whose birth is celebrated on September 8. Christ Himself said that St. John is greatest “among those that are born of women…” He prepared the way for the coming of the Lord and, at the Jordan River, Baptized Christ. He is also a Martyr and Prophet, telling us all, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” In his icon, he is portrayed with the wings of an Angel, not only because he was the unique messenger of God preparing the way for Christ, but also because of the sanctity of his life. We thank His Eminence, Archbishop Michael for leading us in prayer

I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the Lord !" (Ps 122:1)