Revealing to you the pre-eternal counsel,

Gabriel came and stood before you, O Maiden,

and in greeting said:

“Rejoice, earth that has not been sown!

Rejoice, burning bush that remains unconsumed!

Rejoice, unsearchable depth!

Rejoice, bridge that leads to Heaven!

Rejoice, ladder raised on high that Jacob saw!

Rejoice, divine jar of manna!

Rejoice, deliverance from the curse!

Rejoice, restoration of Adam;

the Lord is with you!”

From the Vesperal Stichera of the Vigil of the Annunciation