The above video was taken on Great and Holy Friday (sort of) this past year at the Melkite parish I once attended. I have never found Holy Week done better. The above chant is the climax of the Crucifixion service that takes place late Thursday night. It is haunting. Here is a version of the words:
Today is suspended upon the tree, He who suspended the earth upon the waters.
A crown of thorns crowns Him Who is the King of the angels.
He is wrapped about with the purple of mockery, He Who wrapped the heavens with clouds.
He receives smitings, He who freed Adam in the Jordan.
The Bridegroom of the Church is affixed to the Cross with nails.
The Son of the virgin is pierced by a spear.
We worship Thy passion, O Christ!
We worship Thy passion, O Christ!
We worship Thy passion, O Christ!
Show us also Thy glorious resurrection!
A crown of thorns crowns Him Who is the King of the angels.
He is wrapped about with the purple of mockery, He Who wrapped the heavens with clouds.
He receives smitings, He who freed Adam in the Jordan.
The Bridegroom of the Church is affixed to the Cross with nails.
The Son of the virgin is pierced by a spear.
We worship Thy passion, O Christ!
We worship Thy passion, O Christ!
We worship Thy passion, O Christ!
Show us also Thy glorious resurrection!
I especially like this version http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QD71bV9omM
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