When the Homily is about Immunology

Nativity Forefeast

Troparion of the Forefeast
Make ready, Bethlelem, Eden has been opened to all
Prepare Ephratha, for the Tree of Life has blossomed in the cave from the Virgin.
Her womb was a spiritual paradise whence came the Divine Plant.
If we eat it we shall live and not die like Adam.
Christ is born to raise up the image that of old had fallen.

Kontakion of the Forefeast
He Who holds the earth in His hands
is seen in Bethlehem wrapped in swaddling bands.
We sing before the feast to her who bore Him.
She rejoices as a Mother as she nurses the Son of God.

Kontakion of the Forefeast
Today the Virgin is coming to the cave
to give birth to the eternal Word.
Rejoice at the message, O earth;
with the Angels and Shepherds give glory
to Him Who was willing to be seen as a Child
while remaining God throughout all ages.

Kontakion Sunday before Nativity
O Bethlehem, rejoice! Make ready, Ephratha!
The ewe is hastening to give birth to the Great Shepherd Whom she carries in her womb.
The Godbearing Fathers rejoice at seeing Him,
and the Shepherds praise the Virgin who suckles Him.