Today marks the celebration of the Orthodox New Year! The tradition of beginning the year in September comes from ancient Roman practice and was adopted by the Church. This is a time of new beginnings, when we offer prayers for God's blessing upon the new year and remember His providence in the cycle of seasons. This day has also been designated Day for the Protection of our Natural Environment by the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

Apolytikion of Beginning of the Indiction

Creator of the universe, setting times and seasons by Your sole authority, bless the cycle of the year of Your grace, O Lord, guarding our rulers and Your nation in peace, at the intercession of the Theotokos, and save us.

Kontakion of Beginning of the Indiction

You who created all things in Your infinite wisdom, and set the times by Your own authority, grant Your Christian people victories. Blessing our comings…