Texts of particularly beautiful prayers

[Mourad Mankarios]

Below I've pasted the text to one of the most beautiful prayers I've ever read with the links from where it came from. It was originally posted by Maria Mahoney. Many thanks.

Perhaps if others have prayers that they have found particularly moving and could assist some on this forum in their personal prayer-life they might like to share these as well.

http://www.saintjonah.org/services/thanksgiving.htm
http://www.goarch.org/en/chapel/litu...on_vespers.asp

The Akathist Hymn: "Glory to God for All Things"

This Akathist, also called the "Akathist of Thanksgiving," was composed by Protopresbyter Gregory Petrov shortly before his death in a prison camp in 1940. The title is from the words of Saint John Chrysostom as he was dying in exile. It is a song of praise from amidst the most terrible sufferings.

Kontakion 1

Everlasting King, Thy will for our salvation is full of power. Thy right arm controls the whole course of human life. We give Thee thanks for all Thy mercies, seen and unseen. For eternal life, for the heavenly joys of the Kingdom which is to be. Grant mercy to us who sing Thy praise, both now and in the time to come. Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age.

Ikos 1

I was born a weak, defenceless child, but Thine angel spread his wings over my cradle to defend me. From birth until now Thy love has illumined my path, and has wondrously guided me towards the light of eternity; from birth until now the generous gifts of Thy providence have been marvelously showered upon me. I give Thee thanks, with all who have come to know Thee, who call upon Thy name.

Glory to Thee for calling me into being
Glory to Thee, showing me the beauty of the universe
Glory to Thee, spreading out before me heaven and earth
Like the pages in a book of eternal wisdom
Glory to Thee for Thine eternity in this fleeting world
Glory to Thee for Thy mercies, seen and unseen
Glory to Thee through every sigh of my sorrow
Glory to Thee for every step of my life's journey
For every moment of glory
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 2

O Lord, how lovely it is to be Thy guest. Breeze full of scents; mountains reaching to the skies; waters like boundless mirrors, reflecting the sun's golden rays and the scudding clouds. All nature murmurs mysteriously, breathing the depth of tenderness. Birds and beasts of the forest bear the imprint of Thy love. Blessed art thou, mother earth, in thy fleeting loveliness, which wakens our yearning for happiness that will last for ever, in the land where, amid beauty that grows not old, the cry rings out: Alleluia!

Ikos 2

Thou hast brought me into life as into an enchanted paradise. We have seen the sky like a chalice of deepest blue, where in the azure heights the birds are singing. We have listened to the soothing murmur of the forest and the melodious music of the streams. We have tasted fruit of fine flavour and the sweet-scented honey. We can live very well on Thine earth. It is a pleasure to be Thy guest.

Glory to Thee for the Feast Day of life
Glory to Thee for the perfume of lilies and roses
Glory to Thee for each different taste of berry and fruit
Glory to Thee for the sparkling silver of early morning dew
Glory to Thee for the joy of dawn's awakening
Glory to Thee for the new life each day brings
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 3

It is the Holy Spirit who makes us find joy in each flower, the exquisite scent, the delicate colour, the beauty of the Most High in the tiniest of things. Glory and honour to the Spirit, the Giver of Life, who covers the fields with their carpet of flowers, crowns the harvest with gold, and gives to us the joy of gazing at it with our eyes. O be joyful and sing to Him: Alleluia!

Ikos 3

How glorious art Thou in the springtime, when every creature awakes to new life and joyfully sings Thy praises with a thousand tongues. Thou art the Source of Life, the Destroyer of Death. By the light of the moon, nightingales sing, and the valleys and hills lie like wedding garments, white as snow. All the earth is Thy promised bride awaiting her spotless husband. If the grass of the field is like this, how gloriously shall we be transfigured in the Second Coming after the Resurrection! How splendid our bodies, how spotless our souls!

Glory to Thee, bringing from the depth of the earth an endless variety of colours, tastes and scents
Glory to Thee for the warmth and tenderness of the world of nature
Glory to Thee for the numberless creatures around us
Glory to Thee for the depths of Thy wisdom, the whole world a living sign of it
Glory to Thee; on my knees, I kiss the traces of Thine unseen hand
Glory to Thee, enlightening us with the clearness of eternal life
Glory to Thee for the hope of the unutterable, imperishable beauty of immortality
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 4

How filled with sweetness are those whose thoughts dwell on Thee; how life-giving Thy holy Word. To speak with Thee is more soothing than anointing with oil; sweeter than the honeycomb. To pray to Thee lifts the spirit, refreshes the soul. Where Thou art not, there is only emptiness; hearts are smitten with sadness; nature, and life itself, become sorrowful; where Thou art, the soul is filled with abundance, and its song resounds like a torrent of life: Alleluia!

Ikos 4

When the sun is setting, when quietness falls like the peace of eternal sleep, and the silence of the spent day reigns, then in the splendour of its declining rays, filtering through the clouds, I see Thy dwelling-place: fiery and purple, gold and blue, they speak prophet-like of the ineffable beauty of Thy presence, and call to us in their majesty. We turn to the Father.

Glory to Thee at the hushed hour of nightfall
Glory to Thee, covering the earth with peace
Glory to Thee for the last ray of the sun as it sets
Glory to Thee for sleep's repose that restores us
Glory to Thee for Thy goodness even in the time of darkness
When all the world is hidden from our eyes
Glory to Thee for the prayers offered by a trembling soul
Glory to Thee for the pledge of our reawakening
On that glorious last day, that day which has no evening
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 5

The dark storm clouds of life bring no terror to those in whose hearts Thy fire is burning brightly. Outside is the darkness of the whirlwind, the terror and howling of the storm, but in the heart, in the presence of Christ, there is light and peace, silence: Alleluia!

Ikos 5

I see Thine heavens resplendent with stars. How glorious art Thou radiant with light! Eternity watches me by the rays of the distant stars. I am small, insignificant, but the Lord is at my side. Thy right arm guides me wherever I go.

Glory to Thee, ceaselessly watching over me
Glory to Thee for the encounters Thou dost arrange for me
Glory to Thee for the love of parents, for the faithfulness of friends
Glory to Thee for the humbleness of the animals which serve me
Glory to Thee for the unforgettable moments of life
Glory to Thee for the heart's innocent joy
Glory to Thee for the joy of living
Moving and being able to return Thy love
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 6

How great and how close art Thou in the powerful track of the storm! How mighty Thy right arm in the blinding flash of the lightning! How awesome Thy majesty! The voice of the Lord fills the fields, it speaks in the rustling of the trees. The voice of the Lord is in the thunder and the downpour. The voice of the Lord is heard above the waters. Praise be to Thee in the roar of mountains ablaze. Thou dost shake the earth like a garment; Thou dost pile up to the sky the waves of the sea. Praise be to Thee, bringing low the pride of man. Thou dost bring from his heart a cry of Penitence: Alleluia!

Ikos 6

When the lightning flash has lit up the camp dining hall, how feeble seems the light from the lamp. Thus dost Thou, like the lightning, unexpectedly light up my heart with flashes of intense joy. After Thy blinding light, how drab, how colourless, how illusory all else seems. My souls clings to Thee.

Glory to Thee, the highest peak of men's dreaming
Glory to Thee for our unquenchable thirst for communion with God
Glory to Thee, making us dissatisfied with earthly things
Glory to Thee, turning on us Thine healing rays
Glory to Thee, subduing the power of the spirits of darkness
And dooming to death every evil
Glory to Thee for the signs of Thy presence
For the joy of hearing Thy voice and living in Thy love
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 7

In the wondrous blending of sounds it is Thy call we hear; in the harmony of many voices, in the sublime beauty of music, in the glory of the works of great composers: Thou leadest us to the threshold of paradise to come, and to the choirs of angels. All true beauty has the power to draw the soul towards Thee, and to make it sing in ecstasy: Alleluia!

Ikos 7

The breath of Thine Holy Spirit inspires artists, poets and scientists. The power of Thy supreme knowledge makes them prophets and interpreters of Thy laws, who reveal the depths of Thy creative wisdom. Their works speak unwittingly of Thee. How great art Thou in Thy creation! How great art Thou in man!

Glory to Thee, showing Thine unsurpassable power in the laws of the universe
Glory to Thee, for all nature is filled with Thy laws
Glory to Thee for what Thou hast revealed to us in Thy mercy
Glory to Thee for what Thou hast hidden from us in Thy wisdom
Glory to Thee for the inventiveness of the human mind
Glory to Thee for the dignity of man's labour
Glory to Thee for the tongues of fire that bring inspiration
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 8

How near Thou art in the day of sickness. Thou Thyself visitest the sick; Thou Thyself bendest over the sufferer's bed. His heart speaks to Thee. In the throes of sorrow and suffering Thou bringest peace and unexpected consolation. Thou art the comforter. Thou art the love which watches over and heals us. To Thee we sing the song: Alleluia!

Ikos 8

When in childhood I called upon Thee consciously for the first time, Thou didst hear my prayer, and Thou didst fill my heart with the blessing of peace. At that moment I knew Thy goodness and knew how blessed are those who turn to Thee. I started to call upon Thee night and day; and now even now I call upon Thy name.

Glory to Thee, satisfying my desires with good things
Glory to Thee, watching over me day and night
Glory to Thee, curing affliction and emptiness with the healing flow of time
Glory to Thee, no loss is irreparable in Thee, Giver of eternal life to all
Glory to Thee, making immortal all that is lofty and good
Glory to Thee, promising us the longed-for meeting with our loved ones who have died
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 9

Why is it that on a Feast Day the whole of nature mysteriously smiles? Why is it that then a heavenly gladness fills our hearts; a gladness far beyond that of earth and the very air in church and in the altar becomes luminous? It is the breath of Thy gracious love. It is the reflection of the glory of Mount Tabor. Then do heaven and earth sing Thy praise: Alleluia!

Ikos 9

When Thou didst call me to serve my brothers and filled my soul with humility, one of Thy deep, piercing rays shone into my heart; it became luminous, full of light like iron glowing in the furnace. I have seen Thy face, face of mystery and of unapproachable glory.

Glory to Thee, transfiguring our lives with deeds of love
Glory to Thee, making wonderfully Sweet the keeping of Thy commandments
Glory to Thee, making Thyself known where man shows mercy on his neighbour
Glory to Thee, sending us failure and misfortune that we may understand the sorrows of others
Glory to Thee, rewarding us so well for the good we do
Glory to Thee, welcoming the impulse of our heart's love
Glory to Thee, raising to the heights of heaven every act of love in earth and sky
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 10

No one can put together what has crumbled into dust, but Thou canst restore a conscience turned to ashes. Thou canst restore to its former beauty a soul lost and without hope. With Thee, there is nothing that cannot be redeemed. Thou art love; Thou art Creator and Redeemer. We praise Thee, singing: Alleluia!

Ikos 10

Remember, my God, the fall of Lucifer full of pride, keep me safe with the power of Thy Grace; save me from falling away from Thee. Save me from doubt. Incline my heart to hear Thy mysterious voice every moment of my life. Incline my heart to call upon Thee, present in everything.

Glory to Thee for every happening
Every condition Thy providence has put me in
Glory to Thee for what Thou speakest to me in my heart
Glory to Thee for what Thou revealest to me, asleep or awake
Glory to Thee for scattering our vain imaginations
Glory to Thee for raising us from the slough of our passions through suffering
Glory to Thee for curing our pride of heart by humiliation
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 11

Across the cold chains of the centuries, I feel the warmth of Thy breath, I feel Thy blood pulsing in my veins. Part of time has already gone, but now Thou art the present. I stand by Thy Cross; I was the cause of it. I cast myself down in the dust before it. Here is the triumph of love, the victory of salvation. Here the centuries themselves cannot remain silent, singing Thy praises: Alleluia!

Ikos 11

Blessed are they that will share in the King's Banquet: but already on earth Thou givest me a foretaste of this blessedness. How many times with Thine own hand hast Thou held out to me Thy Body and Thy Blood, and I, though a miserable sinner, have received this Mystery, and have tasted Thy love, so ineffable, so heavenly.

Glory to Thee for the unquenchable fire of Thy Grace
Glory to Thee, building Thy Church, a haven of peace in a tortured world
Glory to Thee for the life-giving water of Baptism in which we find new birth
Glory to Thee, restoring to the penitent purity white as the lily
Glory to Thee for the cup of salvation and the bread of eternal joy
Glory to Thee for exalting us to the highest heaven
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 12

How often have I seen the reflection of Thy glory in the faces of the dead. How resplendent they were, with beauty and heavenly joy. How ethereal, how translucent their faces. How triumphant over suffering and death, their felicity and peace. Even in the silence they were calling upon Thee. In the hour of my death, enlighten my soul, too, that it may cry out to Thee: Alleluia!

Ikos 12

What sort of praise can I give Thee? I have never heard the song of the Cherubim, a joy reserved for the spirits above. But I know the praises that nature sings to Thee. In winter, I have beheld how silently in the moonlight the whole earth offers Thee prayer, clad in its white mantle of snow, sparkling like diamonds. I have seen how the rising sun rejoices in Thee, how the song of the birds is a chorus of praise to Thee. I have heard the mysterious mutterings of the forests about Thee, and the winds singing Thy praise as they stir the waters. I have understood how the choirs of stars proclaim Thy glory as they move forever in the depths of infinite space. What is my poor worship! All nature obeys Thee, I do not. Yet while I live, I see Thy love, I long to thank Thee, and call upon Thy name.

Glory to Thee, giving us light
Glory to Thee, loving us with love so deep, divine and infinite
Glory to Thee, blessing us with light, and with the host of angels and saints
Glory to Thee, Father all-holy, promising us a share in Thy Kingdom
Glory to Thee, Holy Spirit, life-giving Sun of the world to come
Glory to Thee for all things, Holy and most merciful Trinity
Glory to Thee, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 13

Life-giving and merciful Trinity, receive my thanksgiving for all Thy goodness. Make us worthy of Thy blessings, so that, when we have brought to fruit the talents Thou hast entrusted to us, we may enter into the joy of our Lord, forever exulting in the shout of victory: Alleluia!

[Nina]

Thank you for starting this thread!

Besides the Psalms, prayers to the Virgin Mary, prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian etc. I also like the prayer of St. Nikolai of Ochrid

"Lord, Bless My Enemies"


Bless my enemies, O Lord. Even I bless them and do not curse them.

Enemies have driven me into Thy embrace more than friends have.

Friends have bound me to earth, enemies have loosed me from earth and have demolished all my aspirations in the world.

Enemies have made me a stranger in worldly realms and an extraneous inhabitant of the world.

Just as a hunted animal finds safer shelter than an unhunted animal does, so have I, persecuted by enemies, found the safest sanctuary, having ensconced myself beneath Thy tabernacle, where neither friends nor enemies can slay my soul.

Bless my enemies, O Lord. Even I bless them and do not curse them.

They, rather than I, have confessed my sins before the world.

They have punished me, whenever I have hesitated to punish myself.

They have tormented me, whenever I have tried to flee torments.

They have scolded me, whenever I have flattered myself They have spat upon me, whenever I have filled myself with arrogance.

Bless my enemies, O Lord. Even I bless them and do not curse them.

Whenever I have made myself wise, they have called me foolish.

Whenever I have made myself mighty, they have mocked me as though I were a dwarf.

Whenever I have wanted to lead people, they have shoved me into the background.

Whenever I have rushed to enrich myself, they have prevented me with an iron hand.

Whenever I thought that I would sleep peacefully, they have wakened me from sleep.

Whenever I have tried to build a home for a long and tranquil life,they have demolished it and driven me out.

Truly, enemies have cut me loose from the world and have stretched out my hands to the hem of Thy garment.

Bless my enemies, O Lord. Even I bless them and do not curse them.

Bless them and multiply them; multiply them and make them even more bitterly against me:

so that my fleeing to Thee may have no return;

so that all hope in men may be scattered like cobwebs;

so that absolute serenity may begin to reign in my soul;

so that my heart may become the grave of my two evil twins: arrogance and anger;

so that I might amass all my treasure in heaven;

ah, so that I may for once be freed from self deception, which has entangled me in the dreadful web of illusory life.

Enemies have taught me to know what hardly anyone knows, that a person has no enemies in the world except himself.

One hates his enemies only when he fails to realize that they are not enemies, but cruel friends.

It is truly difficult for me to say who has done me more good and who has done me more evil in the world: friends or enemies.

Therefore bless, O Lord, both my friends and my enemies.

A slave curses enemies, for he does not understand.

But a son blesses them, for he understands. For a son knows that his enemies cannot touch his life. Therefore he freely steps among them and prays to God for them.

Bless my enemies, O Lord. Even I bless them and do not curse them.

Amen

[Mourad Mankarios]

Thanks Nina, that was beautiful. Here's another I found quite moving:

I am the least of all creatures. I know my mean estate, but I know that noble and generous hearts love to do good. Therefore, O Blessed Inhabitants of the Celestial City, I entreat you to adopt me as your child. All the glory that you help me to acquire, will be yours; only deign to hear my prayer, and obtain for me a double portion of the love of God.

I ask for Love …But how shall I show my love, since love proves itself by deeds? Well! The little child will strew flowers . . . she will embrace the Divine Throne with their fragrance, she will sing Love's Canticle in silvery tones. Yes, my Beloved, it is thus my short life shall be spent in Thy sight. The only way I have of proving my love is to strew flowers before Thee--that is to say, I will let no tiny sacrifice pass, no look, no word. I wish to profit by the smallest actions, and to do them for Love. I wish to suffer for Love's sake, and for Love's sake even to rejoice: thus shall I strew flowers. Not one shall I find without scattering its petals before Thee . . . and I will sing . . . I will sing always, even if my roses must be gathered from amidst thorns; and the longer and sharper the thorns, the sweeter shall be my song.
St Therese of Lisieux

[Athanasius Abdullah]

Very nice prayers.

I hope you don't mind me adding this beautiful Lenten prayer of St. Nersess the Gracrious, an Armenian Orthodox Saint of the 12th century:

1. I confess with faith and adore You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, uncreated and immortal essence, creator of angels, of humans, and of all that exists. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

2. I confess with faith and adore You, O Light indivisible, consubstantial Holy Trinity and one Godhead, creator of light and dispeller of darkness. Dispel from my soul the darkness of sin and ignorance, and at this hour enlighten my mind, that I may pray to You according to Your will, and receive from You the fulfillment of my supplications. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

3. Heavenly Father, true God, who sent Your beloved Son to seek the wandering sheep, I have sinned against heaven and before You; receive me like the Prodigal Son, and clothe me with the garment of innocence, of which I was deprived by sin. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

4. Son of God, true God, who descended from the bosom of the Father, and took flesh of the Holy Virgin Mary for our salvation, who was crucified and buried, and rose from the dead, and ascended to the Father, I have sinned against Heaven and before You; remember me like the robber, when You come into Your kingdom. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

5. Spirit of God, true God, who descended into the Jordan and into the upper chamber, and who enlightened me by baptism in the holy font, I have sinned against Heaven and before You; cleanse me with Your divine fire as You purified the holy Apostles with fiery tongues. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

6. Uncreated Essence, I have sinned against You in mind, soul and body; do not remember my former sins for the sake of Your Holy name. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

7. Beholder of all, I have sinned against You, in thought, word and deed; erase the record of my offences, and write my name in the Book of Life. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

8. Searcher of secrets, I have sinned against You willingly and unwillingly, knowingly and unknowingly, grant me —a great sinner— forgiveness, for since I was born of the holy font until this day I have sinned before You, by my senses, and by all the members of my body. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

9. All provident Lord, place Your holy fear as a guard before my eyes so they may not look lustfully; before my ears so that they may not delight in hearing evil words; before my mouth so that it may not speak any falsehoods; before my heart so that it may not think evil; before my hands so that they may not do injustice; before my feet, that they may not walk in the paths of injustice; but so direct them, that they may always be according to all Your commandments. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

10. Christ, who are the Living Fire, inflame my soul with the fire of Your love, which You did send forth upon the earth, that it may burn the stains of my soul, sanctify my conscience, purge the sins of my body, and kindle in my heart the light of Your knowledge. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

11. Jesus, wisdom of the Father, grant me wisdom, that I may always think, speak, and do that which is good in Your sight; save me from evil thoughts, words and deeds. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

12. Lord, who wills that which is good, and are the director of the will, let me not follow the inclinations of my heart, but lead me to live always according to Your good will. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

13. Heavenly King, grant me Your kingdom, which You have promised to Your beloved; strengthen my heart to hate sin, and to love You alone, and to do Your will. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

14. Protector of Your creatures, by the sign of Your cross keep my soul and body from the allurements of sin, from the temptations of the devil and unjust people, and from all perils of soul and body. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

15. Christ, the guardian of all, let Your Right Hand guard and shelter me by day and by night, while at home and while away, while sleeping and while awake, that I may never fall. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

16. my God, who opens Your hand and fills all things living with Your bounty, to You I commit my soul; do care for me and provide for the needs of my body and soul forever. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

17. You who bring back the wanderers, turn me from my evil ways to good ones and imprint upon my soul the recollection of the dreadful day of death, the fear of hell and the love of Your Kingdom that I may repent of my sins and do righteousness. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

18. Fountain of immortality, make the tears of repentance flow from my heart, like those of the adulteress, that I may wash away the sins of my soul before I depart from this world. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

19. Bestower of mercy, grant that I may come to You with true faith, with good works and by the communion of Your Holy Body and Blood. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

20. Beneficent Lord, commit me to a good angel, that I may deliver up my spirit in peace; convey it undisturbed by the malice of evil spirits that are under the heavens. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

21. Christ, True Light, make my soul worthy to behold with joy the light of Your glory, in that day when You call me and to rest in the hope of good things in the mansions of the just until the day of Your glorious coming. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

22. Righteous Judge, when You come in the glory of the Father to judge the living and the dead, enter not into judgement with Your servant, but deliver me from the eternal fire, and make me worthy to hear the blissful call of the just to Your heavenly kingdom. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

23. All-merciful Lord, have mercy upon all Your faithful, on those who are mine and on those who are strangers; on those whom I know and on those whom I know not; on the living and on the dead; and forgive all my enemies, and those who hate me, the trespasses that they have committed against me; turn them from the malice which they bear towards me, that they may be worthy of Your mercy. Have mercy upon Your Creatures and upon me, a great sinner.

24. Glorified Lord, accept the supplications of Your servant, and graciously fulfill my petitions, through the intercession of the Holy Mother of God, John the Baptist, the first martyr St. Stephen, St. Gregory our Illuminator, the Holy Apostles, Prophets, Divines, Martyrs, Patriarchs, Hermits, Virgins and all Your saints in Heaven and on Earth. And unto You, O indivisible Holy Trinity, be glory and worship forever and ever. Amen.

[Mourad Mankarios]

Thanks Athanasius that was great. Here's more. What a beautiful and profound spiritual dialogue.

Late have I loved you, O beauty so ancient and so new;
late have I loved you.
For behold you were within me, and I outside;
and I sought you outside and in my ugliness fell
upon those lovely things that you have made.
You were with me and I was not with you.
I was kept from you by those things,
yet had they not been in you, they would not have
been at all.
You called and cried to me and broke upon my deafness;
and you sent forth your light and shone upon me,
and chased away my blindness;
You breathed fragrance upon me,
and I drew in my breath and do now pant for you:
I tasted you and I now hunger and thirst for you;
you touched me, and I have burned for your peace.
(St Augustine)

[Mary]

Heard this one this morning on Ancient Faith Radio, from Prayers by the Lake, by St Nikolai of Ochrid and Zica (#41).

With fasting I gladden my hope in You, my Lord, Who are to come again.

Fasting hastens my preparation for Your coming, the sole expectation of my days and nights.

Fasting makes my body thinner, so that what remains can more easily shine with the spirit.

While waiting for You, I wish neither to nourish myself with blood nor to take life--so that the animals may sense the joy of my expectation.

But truly, abstaining from food will not save me. Even if I were to eat only the sand from the lake, You would not come to me, unless the fasting penetrated deeper into my soul.

I have come to know through my prayer, that bodily fasting is more a symbol of true fasting, very beneficial for someone who has only just begun to hope in You, and nevertheless very difficult for someone who merely practices it.

Therefore I have brought fasting into my soul to purge her of many impudent fiancé's and to prepare her for You like a virgin.

And I have brought fasting into my mind, to expel from it all daydreams about worldly matters and to demolish all the air castles, fabricated from those daydreams.

I have brought fasting into my mind, so that it might jettison the world and prepare to receive Your Wisdom.

And I have brought fasting into my heart, so that by means of it my heart might quell all passions and worldly selfishness.

I have brought fasting into my heart, so that heavenly peace might ineffably reign over my heart, when Your stormy Spirit encounters it.

I prescribe fasting for my tongue, to break itself of the habit of idle chatter and to speak reservedly only those words that clear the way for You to come.

And I have imposed fasting on my worries so that it may blow them all away before itself like the wind that blows away the mist, lest they stand like dense fog between me and You, and lest they turn my gaze back to the world.

And fasting has brought into my soul tranquility in the face of uncreated and created realms, and humility towards men and creatures. And it has instilled in me courage, the likes of which I never knew when I was armed with every sort of worldly weapon.

What was my hope before I began to fast except merely another story told by others, which passed from mouth to mouth?

The story told by others about salvation through prayer and fasting became my own.

False fasting accompanies false hope, just as no fasting accompanies hopelessness.

But just as a wheel follows behind a wheel, so true fasting follows true hope.
Help me to fast joyfully and to hope joyously, for You, my Most Joyful Feast, are drawing near to me with Your radiant smile.

[Vic Chiasson]

Hi,
Here is a link to more of these beautiful "Prayers by the Lake". There are 100 at this site.
Pray for me, a sinner

http://www.sv-luka.org/praylake/index.htm

[Mary]

Another excellent one: by Hieroschema Monk Parthenios:

O Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, do not permit vanity, self-love, sensuality, carelessness, nor anger to rule over me and steal me from Thy love, O my Lord and Creator, all my hope! Do not leave me without a portion of the blessed eternity. Grant also that I may follow Thy Holy example, that I may submit to the authorities placed over me. Grant me the clean soul, the simplicity of heart that makes us worthy of Thy love.

To Thee, O my God, I lift up my soul and heart; do not allow Thy creation to perish, but free me from the single and greatest enemy -- sin. Grant, O Lord, that I may endure anxiety and sorrows of the soul with the same patience as the joy with which I receive satisfaction of heart. If Thou desirest, O Lord, Thou canst cleanse me and sanctify me. Here I commit myself to Thy mercy, begging Thee to destroy within me all that is offensive to Thee, and to unite me to the assembly of Thy chosen.

O Lord, take from me: idleness of spirit, which destroys time; vanity of thoughts, which hinders Thy presence and distracts my attention to prayer. If, while in prayer, I turn away from Thee in my thoughts, help me; so that this distraction may not be willful, and that - averting my mind - I may not avert my heart from Thee. I confess to Thee, O my Lord God, all the sins of my wickedness committed before Thee, now and in the past. Forgive me for them for the sake of Thy Holy Name, and save my soul, which Thou hast redeemed with Thy precious Blood. I entrust myself to Thy mercy. I submit to Thy will. Do with me according to Thy mercy and not according to my evil and wickedness.


Teach me, O Lord, to dispose my deeds so that they will serve in glorifying Thy Holy Name. Take pity, O Lord, on all Christians. Hear the desires of all who cry out to Thee, and deliver them from evil. Save Thy servants {insert names}. Send them comfort; consolation in sorrows, and Thy holy mercy. O Lord, I especially pray for those who have in any way insulted, abused and grieved me. Do not punish them for the sake of me, a sinner; but pour Thy mercy upon them. O Lord, I pray to Thee especially for all those whom I, a sinner, insulted or tempted in word, deed, thought, knowingly and unknowingly. O Lord God, forgive us our sins and mutual offenses. Dispel from our hearts, O Lord, all indignation, suspicion, anger, remembrance of evil, quarrels, and all that might hinder and lessen brotherly love.

Be merciful, O Lord, to those who have entrusted me, an unworthy sinner, to pray for them. Be merciful, O Lord, to all who ask Thy help. O Lord, make this day a day of Thy mercy; give to each according to their petition. Be the Shepherd of the lost, the Guide of Light of unbelievers, the Teacher of the unwise, the Father of orphans, the Helper of the oppressed, the Healer of the sick, the Comforter of the dying, and lead us all to the desired end -- to Thee, our refuge and blessed repose. Amen.

[Mourad Mankarios]

Wow! These all are really beautiful. Please keep them coming.

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love:
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
St Francis of Assisi

[Mary]

Aha! Found it! It needs more added to it though!

Here's one I found by St Ephraim, while wandering through another room in Monachos:

"How Many Times Have I Promised,
Yet Every Time I Failed to Keep My Word.

But Disregard This According to Thy Grace."
Grant forgiveness, O Lord, send also strength. Convert me, that I might live in sanctity, according to Thy holy will. Sanctify my heart that has become a den and dwelling-place of demons.
I am unworthy to ask forgiveness for myself, O Lord, for many times have I promised to repent and proved myself a liar by not fulfilling my promise. Thou hast picked me up many times already, but every time I freely chose to fall again.
Therefore I condemn myself and admit that I deserve all manner of punishment and torture. How many times hast Thou enlightened my darkened mind; yet every time I return again to base thoughts! My whole body trembles when I contemplate this; yet every time sinful sensuality reconquers me.
How shall I recount all the gifts of Thy grace, O Lord, that I the pitiful one have received? Yet I have reduced them all to nothing by my apathy -- and I continue on in this manner. Thou has bestowed upon me thousands of gifts, yet miserable me, I offer in return things repulsive to Thee.
Yet Thou, O Lord, inasmuch as Thou containest a sea of longsuffering and an abyss of kindness, do not allow me to be felled as a fruitless fig tree; and do not let me be burned without having ripened on the field of life. Snatch me not away unprepared; seize not me who have not yet lit my lamp; take not away me who have no wedding garment; but, because Thou art good and the lover of mankind, have mercy on me. Give me time to repent, and place not my soul stripped naked before Thy terrible and unwavering throne as a pitiful spectacle of infamy.
If a righteous man can barely be saved, then where will I end up, I who am lawless and sinful? If the path that leads to life is strait and narrow, then how can I be vouchsafed such good things, I who live a life of luxury, indulging in my own pleasures and dissipation? But Thou, O Lord, my Saviour, Son of the true God, as Thou knowest and desirest it, by Thy grace alone, freely turn me away from the sin that abides in me and save me from ruin.

Forgive me, for I do not know how to package a link neatly, like the rest of you do. Here's the link to that page:

http://www.monachos.net/library/Ephr...promised...%27


In Christ,
Mary

[Moses Ibrahim]

http://www.saintjonah.org/services/akathists.htm

http://www.saintjonah.org/services/horologion.htm

AKATHIST HYMN TO THE HOLY XENIA OF SAINT PETERSBURG

Kontakion 1

O holy and blessed Mother Xenia, chosen favorite and fool for the sake of Christ, who elected to undergo the struggle of patience and the suffering of affliction, we who honor your holy memory offer you hymns of praise. Help us against our enemies, visible and
invisible, that we may cry unto you: Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Oikos 1

After the death of your husband, O blessed Mother, you sought the life of the angels and rejected the beauty of this world and all that is in it - the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life; and you acquired the understanding of Christ. Wherefore, you hear these praises which we offer unto you:

Rejoice, for you were the peer of Andrew, the fool for the sake of Christ!
Rejoice, for you renounced your own name, referring to yourself as dead!
Rejoice, for you assumed foolishness and took the name of your husband, Andrew!
Rejoice, for you called yourself by a man’s name, renouncing woman’s weakness!
Rejoice, because for the sake of Christ you accepted voluntary poverty!
Rejoice, for who distributed all your substance to good people and to the poor!
Rejoice, for by your foolishness you have taught us to reject the vain wisdom of this age;
Rejoice. good comforter of all who have recourse to you in prayer!
Rejoice, for you were full of wisdom transcending the world!
Rejoice, for you preferred mockery and ridicule to earthly glory!
Rejoice, for you have been glorified by God;
Rejoice speedy helper in time of trouble and despair!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 2

Perceiving your manner of life as strange, for your spurned your home and all worldly riches, your kinsmen in the flesh thought you deranged; but the people of
Saint Petersburg, seeing your humility, lack of acquisitive-ness, and voluntary poverty, singed unto God: Alleluia!

Oikos 2

O blessed Xenia, you hid the understanding given you by God under an apparent mindlessness; and amid the vanity of the great city you lived like a desert-dweller,
unceasingly offering your prayers up to God. And, marveling at your manner of life, we cry out to you in praise:


Rejoice, for you took upon your shoulder the heavy cross of foolishness which God had given you!
Rejoice, O blessed one who bore it without hesitation!
Rejoice, for you hid the radiance of grace under an assumed insanity!
Rejoice, for your foolishness was most wise!
Rejoice, for through extreme humility and feats of prayer you acquired the gift of clairvoyance!
Rejoice, for you showed forth this gift for the benefit and salvation of the suffering!
Rejoice, for you beheld the sufferings of the people clairvoyantly, as from afar!
Rejoice, for your prayers brought relief to those in pain and distress!
Rejoice, for you prophesied to the good woman the birth of a son!
Rejoice, for you entreated God, that He grant that woman a child!
Rejoice, for you hurry to entreat the Lord in behalf of your neighbors!
Rejoice, for you have taught all to flee to God in prayer!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 3

By the power given you by God from on high, you manfully endured burning heat and bitter cold, crucifying your flesh and the passions and lusts. Wherefore, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, you cried out unceasingly unto God: Alleluia!

Oikos 3

With the sky as your roof and the earth as your bed, O blessed one, you spurned the comfort of the flesh for the sake of the Kingdom of God. And we, beholding your manner of life, cry out to you with compunction:

Rejoice, for you gave your earthly home to the people!
Rejoice, for you sought and received the shelter of heaven!
Rejoice, for you possessed nothing that was earthly, but enriched all spiritually!
Rejoice, O treasure house of the gifts of heaven!
Rejoice, for you accounted every material thing as nothing!
Rejoice, for you were thus freed from every loss!
Rejoice, for you endured hunger and cold in ragged clothing!
Rejoice, for by your life teach you us endurance!
Rejoice, for you showed forth the love of God for all!
Rejoice, for you have been adorned with the fruits of piety!
Rejoice, for you showed the world patience and guilelessness!
Rejoice, O our fervent intercessor before the throne of the Most High!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 4

The tempest of life which assailed Saint Petersburg you weathered by meekness and guilelessness, O blessed Mother, and you acquired dispassion toward this corrupt
world; therefore, you sing unto God: Alleluia!


Oikos 4

Hearing of you, that, having endured a multitude of afflictions for Christ’s sake, you comfort the sorrowful, strengthen the weak and guide the lost to the straight path, the suffering hasten to your aid, singing unto you:

Rejoice, for you loved the path of Christ with all your heart!
Rejoice, for you joyfully bore the Cross of Christ!
Rejoice, for you endured every offense offered you by the world, the flesh, and the devil!
Rejoice, for you thus emulated the ascetics of the desert!
Rejoice, for you were full to overflowing with the gifts of God!
Rejoice, for you freely bestow spiritual gifts upon those in need!
Rejoice, for you showed love for your neighbors!
Rejoice, for you offered consolation to the suffering!
Rejoice, for you shed unceasing tears of repentance!
Rejoice, for you wipe away the tears of those who weep!
Rejoice, for you sought neither comfort nor warmth for yourself!
Rejoice, for you were wondrously warmed by the grace of the Holy Spirit!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 5

Your holiness, O blessed Xenia, was like a divinely guided star illumining the sky of Saint Petersburg; for unto all perishing in the madness of sin you showed the path of salvation, calling all to repentance, that they might cry out to God: Alleluia!

Oikos 5

Seeing your feats of prayer and your endurance of heat and cold, pious folk sought to alleviate your sufferings, offering you clothing and food; but you distributed all these things to the poor, desiring to maintain your struggle. And we, marveling at your voluntary poverty, cry out to you thus:

Rejoice, for willingly endured burning heat and freezing cold the sake of Christ!
Rejoice, for you were warmed by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit!
Rejoice, for you remained continually in prayer!
Rejoice, for you never tire in interceding for mankind!
Rejoice, for by all-night vigils in prayer you preserved Saint Petersburg from misfortunes!
Rejoice, for many times you averted from it the wrath of God!
Rejoice, for every day of the year you prayed at night in a field!
Rejoice, for by your fervent tears you warmed the cold earth!
Rejoice, for you tasted the sweetness of paradise in poverty of spirit!
Rejoice, for in this sweetness you left behind all earthly things!
Rejoice, for you abide wholly in God!
Rejoice, for you delight in the bridal banquet of your Master!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 6

All who have been delivered by you from different ailments, misfortunes and sorrows the rich and the poor, the old and the young - proclaim the holiness of your life, O blessed one of God; therefore, and glorifying you, we cry out unto God: Alleluia!

Oikos 6

The glory of your struggles shone forth, O blessed Mother, when at night you secretly carried stones for those who were erecting the Church of the Smolensk Icon
of the Mother of God, lightening the tasks of the builders; and mindful of this, we sinners cry out to you such things as these:

Rejoice, for you teach us to perform virtuous deeds in secret!
Rejoice, for you call all to feats of piety!
Rejoice, for you aided those who were building the churches of God!
Rejoice, for you loved the holiness of the Church!
Rejoice, for you labor for the Lord of the vineyard!
Rejoice, for you ease our labors on the path of salvation!
Rejoice, for you continually call upon the name of the Lord!
Rejoice, O speedy helper of those who have recourse unto you!
Rejoice, for you have found rest in Christ your Master!
Rejoice, O good comforter of all the sorrowful!
Rejoice, for you sanctified your city by your painful footsteps!
Rejoice, O eavenly aid of the city of Saint Petersburg!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls !

Kontakion 7

Desiring to deliver from sorrow the mourning physician who had buried his wife, you commanded a certain maiden to hasten to Okhta, there to take him as her husband and to console him. And they did as you said, singing unto God in joy: Alleluia!

Oikos 7

A new wonder you revealed in your prayer, O blessed Mother, when you said unto a pious woman: "Take a five-kopek piece, and it will go out!" thus prophesying that fire would strike her house; and at your supplication the flame of the fire was extinguished. Therefore, mindful of these things, we cry out praises unto you:

Rejoice, for you unceasingly grieved over your sins!
Rejoice, for you extinguish the sorrows of the people!
Rejoice, for you bore suffering in body and soul!
Rejoice, for before God you show forth boldness for the suffering!
Rejoice, O inextinguishable lamp burning brightly in prayer to God!
Rejoice, O our intercessor amid misfortunes and perils!
Rejoice, for you save from perdition those beset by the passions!
Rejoice, for you turn pious virgins away from marriage with unbelievers!
Rejoice, for you crucified your flesh with constant mortification!
Rejoice, for you deliver from despair those who have been wounded by a curse!
Rejoice, for your defender was the Most High!
Rejoice, O speedy defender at an unjust trial!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 8

As a homeless wanderer you trod the path of your life in the capital city of Russia, bearing afflictions and reproaches with great patience; and, abiding now in the heavenly Jerusalem, in joy you sing unto God: Alleluia!

Oikos 8

You were all things to all, O blessed Xenia - comfort for the sorrowful, protection and defense for the weak, joy for the grieving, clothing for the poor, healing for the sick; therefore, we cry out unto you:

Rejoice, for you dwell in the mansions on high!
Rejoice, for you pray there for us sinners!
Rejoice, O good one, who show us a model of service to God!
Rejoice, O provider of our every need!
Rejoice, O protectress of the persecuted and oppressed!
Rejoice, for you by your supplications help the Orthodox people!
Rejoice, for you endured much affliction and grief!
Rejoice, for you defend the afflicted who pray to you!
Rejoice, for you rebuke those who abuse their fellows!
Rejoice, for you put to shame unbelievers and those who babble!
Rejoice, for you were clothed in rags and tatters!
Rejoice, for God has adorned you with the splendid raiment of righteousness!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 9

O blessed mother, you endured all illness, bodily poverty, hunger and thirst, and the reproach of iniquitous people who considered you to be insane; yet, praying to the Lord, you continually cried out to Him: Alleluia!

Oikos 9

Even the most eloquent of orators are unable to understand how by your foolishness you reproved the madness of this world, and by your weakness you put the mighty and wise to shame, for they do not know the power and wisdom of God which are in you; but we, receiving your aid, sing to you such things as these:

Rejoice, O bearer of the divine Spirit!
Rejoice, for with the Apostle Paul you boasted in your weakness!
Rejoice, for you reproved the world by your feigned foolishness!
Rejoice, for you spurned the glamour of this world for the sake of salvation!
Rejoice, for you disdained the beautiful things of this earth!
Rejoice, for you loved the good things of heaven with all your heart!
Rejoice, for you were attentive unto the inner voice of the Lord!
Rejoice, for you call us to the path of salvation!
Rejoice, O dread denouncer of drunkenness as a sin!
Rejoice, for you were renowned for your kindness and love!
Rejoice, O holy protectress of the Orthodox family!
Rejoice, for in Christ you found comfort for your sorrows!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 10

Desiring to save your soul, you crucified your flesh with its passions and lusts; and, utterly denying your-self, you set your cross upon your shoulder and followed after Christ with all your heart, singing unto Him: Alleluia!

Oikos 10

You are a firm rampart and an unassailable refuge for those who pray to you, O Mother Xenia; therefore, by your supplications help us against our enemies, visible and invisible, that we may cry to you:

Rejoice, for you worked diligently in the garden of Christ!
Rejoice, for you move us to spiritual labor!
Rejoice, for through steadfastness of faith you escaped the devil’s snares!
Rejoice, for you deliver us from the snares of the enemy!
Rejoice, for you offered yourself unto God like incense in a censer!
Rejoice, for you bring the peace of God into the hearts of the people!
Rejoice, for you shed rays of Christian love upon all!
Rejoice, for you extinguish the spirit of malice in the hearts of the oppressed!
Rejoice, for you impart blessing unto good children!
Rejoice, for by mystic supplication you heal their ailments!
Rejoice, for through foolishness you attained heavenly wisdom!
Rejoice, for you have shown forth the wisdom of God to the afflicted world!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 11

Those who have been saved from misfortunes, sorrows and all dangers offer you hymns of praise, O blessed Xenia, and with you joyously sing unto God: Alleluia!

Oikos 11

Your life, O holy Mother, has been shown to be a radiant light illumining the people amid the darkness of this life; for you have delivered those who have fallen into the mire of sin and directed their path to the light of Christ. Therefore, we cry out to you:

Rejoice, O favorite of Christ, who while in the world lived above the world!
Rejoice, for you enlighten the Orthodox with the light of God!
Rejoice, for you by your many labors acquired great grace!
Rejoice, for you shone forth with the grace of God in the darkness of sin!
Rejoice, for you set your hope upon the Almighty!
Rejoice, for on the path of salvation you give a helping hand to the desperate!
Rejoice, for you were clad in the brilliant robe of unwavering faith!
Rejoice, for you strengthen those who are weak in the Faith!
Rejoice, for you were renowned for your kindness and love!
Rejoice, for you put to shame the spirits of malice!
Rejoice, for your ways were those of an ascetic of the wilderness!
Rejoice, for by your manner of life you amazed the angels!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 12

You pour forth grace in abundance upon those who honor your memory and flee to your protection, O blessed Xenia; therefore, upon us who pray to you do you also pour forth streams of healing from God that we may cry out to Him: Alleluia!

Oikos 12

Hyming your many wonders, O blessed Mother, we praise you and entreat you with all our heart: Forsake not us sinners amid our grievous circumstances, but beseech the Lord of hosts, that we fall not away from our Orthodox Faith, but that, strengthened in it by your prayers, we may cry out to you:

Rejoice, for you teach us to have sympathy for the suffering!
Rejoice, for you bear our infirmities with all your heart!
Rejoice, for you instruct us to crucify the flesh, together with the passions and lusts!
Rejoice, for you come to our aid amid every spiritual battle!
Rejoice, for you hear our every supplication!
Rejoice, O intercessor and protectress of those who honor your memory!
Rejoice, for you who traveled the path of tribulation!
Rejoice, for you thereby obtained everlasting salvation!
Rejoice, for you give joy to those who hasten to your tomb!
Rejoice, for you are a speedy helper in every misfortune!
Rejoice, for your light has shone forth before all!
Rejoice, for you ever mediate the salvation of your people!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 13

O holy and blessed Mother Xenia, who bore a heavy cross during your lifetime: Accept from us sinners this entreaty offered unto you. By your supplications protect us
from the assaults of the spirits of darkness and from all who plot evils against us. Beseech our most compassionate God, that He grant us power and might, that we may bear our
own crosses and, following Christ, may go forth, singing with you to Him: Alleluia! (3x)


Oikos 1

After the death of your husband, O blessed Mother, you sought the life of the angels and rejected the beauty of this world and all that is in it - the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life; and you acquired the understanding of Christ. Wherefore, you hear these praises which we offer unto you:

Rejoice, for you were the peer of Andrew, the fool for the sake of Christ!
Rejoice, for you renounced your own name, referring to yourself as dead!
Rejoice, for you assumed foolishness and took the name of your husband, Andrew!
Rejoice, for you called yourself by a man’s name, renouncing woman’s weakness!
Rejoice, because for the sake of Christ you accepted voluntary poverty!
Rejoice, for who distributed all your substance to good people and to the poor!
Rejoice, for by your foolishness you have taught us to reject the vain wisdom of this age;
Rejoice. good comforter of all who have recourse to you in prayer!
Rejoice, for you were full of wisdom transcending the world!
Rejoice, for you preferred mockery and ridicule to earthly glory!
Rejoice, for you have been glorified by God;
Rejoice speedy helper in time of trouble and despair!
Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!

Kontakion 1

O holy and blessed Mother Xenia, chosen favorite and fool for the sake of Christ, who elected to undergo the struggle of patience and the suffering of affliction, we who honor your holy memory offer you hymns of praise. Help us against our enemies, visible and
invisible, that we may cry unto you: Rejoice, O blessed Xenia, who ever intercede for our souls!


Prayer 1

O blessed wanderer Xenia, heir to the Kingdom of the Father, who was homeless on the earth and most simple in the manner of your life! Like those who in the past fell down before your tomb, so do we, who have recourse unto you, now ask: Pray that, as the Lord says, our steps may be guided rightly toward the doing of His commandments, and that the soul-corrupting iniquity sown by the godless may not prevail over our generation. O you who hid yourself from the wise of this age, yet were known to God, ask humility, meekness and the pledge of love for our hearts, faith in prayer, hope in repentance, strength in labors, the mercy of healing in sickness, and restoration of our whole life from this time forward, that, blessing you, we may with compunction confess the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, the consubstantial and indivisible Trinity, unto ages of ages. Amen.

Prayer 2

O holy and most blessed mother Xenia, who lived under the protection of the Most High and were strengthened by the Mother of God, and who endured hunger and thirst, cold and burning heat, oppression and persecution: You have received from God the gift of clairvoyance and the power to work miracles, and you rest under the shelter of the Almighty. The Holy Church now glorifies you as a fragrant blossom. Praying before your holy icon, we ask you, as one who is alive and with us: Accept our petitions, and offer them up before the throne of the loving Father of heaven; and, since you have boldness before Him, for those who have recourse unto you ask eternal salvation, compassionate blessing upon our good works and undertakings, and deliverance from all misfortunes and sorrows. In your holy supplications before our
most merciful Savior, intercede for us, the unworthy and sinful. O holy and blessed Mother Xenia, help our children to receive illumination by the light of holy baptism and the seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit; raise our youths and maidens in faith, honesty, and the fear of God, and grant them success in their studies; heal the infirm; send down love and concord upon families; account monastics worthy to fight the good fight and protect them from oppression; make our pastors steadfast in the might of the Holy Spirit; preserve the Orthodox faithful in peace and tranquility; and pray for those who at the hour of their death are deprived of the communion of the Holy Mysteries of Christ. You are our trust and hope, speedily hearkening to us and delivering us, Unto you do we send up thanks, and with you do we glorify the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Troparion of St. .Xenia of St. Petersburg, Tone 8:

Christ the Lord has revealed you to be a new intercessor for the Orthodox; you willingly endured evil in your life and lovingly served both God and man. We zealously run to you
in misfortune and sorrow. We hope in you and cry from our hearts: Put not our hope to shame, O blessed Xenia.


Another Troparion of St. Xenia of St. Petersburg, Tone 5:

Having lived as a stranger in the world, O Xenia, you outwitted the deviser of evil by your feigned foolishness. You received from God grace to foresee and foretell things
to come. Now you have been translated from earth and are numbered with the choirs of Angels.

Another Troparion of St. Xenia of St. Petersburg, Tone 4:

Having renounced the vanity of this world, you took up the cross of a homeless life of wandering. You did not fear grief, privation, and scorn, but knew the love of Christ. Now taking sweet delight in His love in heaven, O blessed and divinely wise Xenia, pray for
the salvation of our souls.

Kontakion of St. Xenia, Tone 2:

As we who honor you with love, O Xenia, celebrate the memory of your strange way of life, we sing the praise of Christ, who in all ways grants you the strength of cures. Ever entreat him on behalf of us all.

Kontakion of St. Xenia of St. Petersburg, Tone 4:

You gave your wealth to the poor, O Xenia, and accepted poverty out of love for Christ; and having lived in a manner rivaling the Angels you were counted worthy of glory on high.

Another Kontakion of St. Xenia of St. Petersburg, Tone 3:

A wandering stranger on earth ever signing for the heavenly homeland, you were considered a fool by the senseless and unbelieving, but were known to be wise and holy by the faithful. God crowned you with glory and honor, O Xenia, strong minded and divinely wise. Therefore, we cry to you: Rejoice, for after earthly wandering you have come to dwell in the Father’s house.