






A penitential hymn composed by St. Andrew of Crete, appointed for use during Great Lent. It is read in portions during the first four days of Lent at Great Compline and then chanted in its entirety on Thursday of the fifth week of Lent. The Canon is a profound meditation on repentance, drawing upon numerous biblical figures as examples of both righteousness and sin. Each troparion is followed by the refrain, “Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me.” The Great Canon emphasizes personal contrition, humility, and spiritual awakening, calling the faithful to examine their lives, turn from sin, and prepare their hearts for the joy of Pascha.
