On this encore presentation, Fr. George reflects on the closest our country comes to a national holy day. Thanksgiving Prayers from Orthros as mentioned in this episode: A priest would start with the usual blessing. Blessed is our God now and ever and unto ever and ever … laity of the Royal Priesthood can start with the sign of the cross In the Name of the Father …. We, Thy thankful and unworthy servants,’ praise and glorify Thee, O Lord,’ for Thy great benefits which we have received.’ We bless Thee, we thank Thee, we sing to Thee,* and we magnify Thy great goodness.’ And in lowliness and love we hymn Thee:’ O Benefactor and Savior, glory to Thee! Sessional Hymn, Tone 6. Let us praise God in hymns of thanksgiving,’ ever blessing Him for His bounty and mercy,’ His earthly gifts and heavenly grace,’ His mercy and forgiveness,’ His never ending love towards us His children,* through which we have received* the promise of immortality. Let us praise the Almighty God.* for His benevolence and love towards us,” for our preservation and the blessings of this life;’ yet above all let us thank Him* for His inestimable love* in the redemption of the world* by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,* for the means of grace,* and for the hope of eternal life. Glory… now and ever.. We magnify Thee, O Christ the Giver of Life, and we raise our hymn of grateful praise for all Thine earthly blessings and the hope of eternal life. v. I will offer to Thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the Name of the Lord. (Ps. 115:8) Sessional Hymn, Tone 7. Let our hearts be unfeignedly thankful,* and let us sing hymns of praise to God,* showing forth our gratitude’ not only with our lips but in our lives,* by giving ourselves up to His service* and walking before Him in holiness and righteousness* throughout all our days. Glory… now and ever.
