Prayer has two aspects. First, prayer is communication with God, during which those praying express to the Divine their requests, thanksgiving, and praise. In prayer, a person pours out to God both joy and sorrow, repentance, and longing for the heavenly abode. Second, prayer is any supplication. Strictly speaking, one can petition, entreat, or implore…
This question needs to be divided into three parts. First, let’s determine whether it is possible to address God directly without any “intermediaries.” The answer is unequivocal: “Of course, it is.” God calls people to turn to Him. He does not reject those who come to Him. Moreover, like a shepherd seeking a lost sheep, He strives…
It is absolutely forbidden to submit commemorative notes for such individuals during the Proskomedia, that is, in the altar. During the Proskomedia and the Divine Liturgy, only the faithful—members of the Church—are commemorated. However, at home, you are free to decide for whom you pray, especially when it comes to your relatives. In church, you…
How should one pray at home for the health or repose of non-Orthodox people, especially if they have non-Russian names? Is it permissible to submit notes for deceased relatives of another faith in their heretical churches? Can one participate in the burial of a non-Orthodox relative? In response to your question, it is worth noting…
There is an ancient saying: “The cell has no rule.” A layperson can develop a personal schedule for home prayer that suits their circumstances. For guidance, one might look to the expectations for a monk’s private prayer. It is advisable to read Compline and Midnight Office daily, as these are part of the mandatory private prayer rule for monks. Many Christians…
The lestovka is a type of prayer rope that was widespread in ancient Rus’ and remains in use among the Old Believers. It is a variety of the vervitsa (corded rosary), typically made of braided leather (or, in later times, of cloth or imitation leather) sewn into a loop. It symbolizes both the ladder (lestvitsa) of spiritual ascent from earth to…
On the summit of a hill stands a dark, weathered Cross. And below lies a village—poor, impoverished, and weary. In moments of deep sorrow, it stretches upward toward that blessed tree. A line of wretched and broken people climbs the steep path, clinging to the rocks, bearing the full burden of their suffering. Whoever has…
…I once saw a beautiful painting entitled The Shadow of the Cross. The Lord, still a Boy, is standing beside Joseph’s carpenter’s bench. He has just finished His work: wood shavings lie scattered on the floor and the bench. The Child—Christ—gazes through a narrow window in the humble room. It seems to be evening: the window…
On the Friday of the Sixth Week of Lent: A teaching by John Chrysostom on Repentance, and on How Sins Are Forgiven. Therefore, considering this, let us never despise anyone, and never, when we sin, fall into despair, nor let us become sluggish in returning once again. Rather, when we sin, let us offer contrite…
On Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent, on the Revelation to the Holy Apostle Paul concerning the Departure of the Soul from the Body Sons of men, bless the Lord God without ceasing—every day, every night, and every hour. As the day passes and the sun sets, all the angels assigned to mankind—both men…