February 27, 2013 + If You Fall.... Rise Again
by John of Karpathos
Do all in your power not to fall, for the strong athlete should not fall. But if you do fall, get up again at once and continue the contest. Even if you fall a thousand times because of the withdrawal of God's grace, rise up again each time, and keep on doing this until the day of your death. For it is written, 'If a righteous man falls down seven times' - that is, repeatedly throughout his life - 'seven times shall he rise again' [Prov. 24:16].
Troparion - Tone 1
Your proclamation has gone forth throughout North America, calling the scattered sheep into the unity of the church. hearing your voice, they responded to your teaching, and through your writings you instructed them in piety. now guided by your example, O Father Raphael, we sing hymns of praise unto Christ our God. Glory to Him Who gave you strength! Glory to Him Who granted you a crown! Glory to Him Who, through you, grants healing to all!
Kontakion - Tone 8
You were a guardian and a defender of the Church¹s teaching; you protected your flock from false doctrines and confirmed them in the true faith. O holy father Raphael, son of Syria and glory of North America, always intercede before the Lord that our souls may be saved.