Since Thou hast become life and resurrection for all men through Thy goodness,
Release me from this life.
Thou Who art immortal, and send me away from this life, which is mortal:
Give my body over to mortal death, as with all Thy friends,
But grant me, Merciful One, life spiritual and eternal.
Since I have seen Thee in the flesh, and have been deemed worthy to hold Thee,
I behold Thy glory along with Thy Father and the Holy Spirit,
For Thou hast at the same time, remained on high, and come here below,
Thou, the only Friend of man.
St. Romanos the Melodist, Kontakion on the Presentation in the Temple
Locus Communis 