Faith and Mission

[Morning prayers are taken from The Byzantine Book of Prayer pp 7-15 published with the imprimatur of the Metropolitan Archbishop and Bishops of the Byzantine Ruthenian Church in the United States by Byzantine Seminary Press and Alleluia Press in 1976. The prayer book is available from Byzantine Seminary Press. Its contents are an English translation of the classic prayer book, Ch’lib Duši (Spiritual Bread – a reference to the words of our Lord “Man does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God”) of the Great Enlightener, Father Alexander Duknovich. These prayers are the shortened version of Morning Prayers as it appears in the complete form in Velikij Sbornik (The Large Anthology) of Father Andrew Popovich, 1877 and officially in the Časoslov, Rome 1962.]

+In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You!

Heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth, everywhere present and filling all things. Treasury of Blessings and Giver of Life, come and dwell within us, cleanse us of all stain, and save our souls, O gracious One.

+Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us. (Three times).

+Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Most holy Trinity, have mercy on us; Lord, cleanse us of our sins; Master, forgive our transgressions; Holy One come to us and heal our infirmities for your Name’s sake.

Lord, have mercy. (Three times).

+Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Troparia of the Trinity

Awakening from sleep, we worship You, O blessed God, and offer the angelic hymn to You, O powerful Lord: Holy, holy, holy are You, O God! Through the intercession of Your heavenly hosts, have mercy on us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
O Lord, You have lifted me up from my bed and from sleep, now enlighten my mind, open my heart and my lips that I may sing to You, Holy Trinity: Holy, holy, holy are You, O

God! Through the prayers of all Your saints, have mercy on us.

Now and ever, and forever. Amen.
The Judge shall come suddenly and the deeds of all shall be

brought to light. In fear we cry out at the break of day: Holy, holy, holy are You, O God! Through the prayers of the Mother of God, have mercy on us.

Lord, have mercy. (Twelve times).

And this prayer:

Prayer to the Holy Trinity

by Saint Basil the Great

Rising from sleep, I give thanks to You, O Holy Trinity, because of Your great goodness and endless patience. You did not become angry with me, a slothful and sinful being, nor did You destroy me because of my transgressions. But, as always, You have shown Your love for mankind and have raised me up as I lay in despair so that I might recite the prayers of the morning and sing the praises of Your power. And now, enlighten the eyes of my understanding so that I may meditate on Your words, understand Your commandments, and accomplish Your will. Open my mouth so that I may sing to You in sincere praise, and that I may proclaim Your most holy Name, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Then,

+Come, let us worship our King and God.
+Come, let us worship Christ, our King and God.
+Come, let us worship and bow before the only Lord Jesus

Christ the King and our God.

Psalm 50:

Have mercy on me, God, in your kindness. in your compassion blot out my offence. O wash me more and more from my guilt

and cleanse me from my sin.

My offences truly I know them;
my sin is always before me.
Against you, you alone, have I sinned; what is evil in your sight I have done.

That you may be justified when you give sentence and be without reproach when you judge
O see, in guilt was I born,
a sinner was I conceived.

Indeed you love truth in the heart;
then in the secret of my heart teach me wisdom O purify me, then I shall be clean;
O wash me, I shall be whiter than snow.

Make me hear rejoicing and gladness,
that the bones you have crushed may thrill. From my sins turn away your face
and blot out all my guilt.

A pure heart create for me, O God,
put a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence, nor deprive me of your holy spirit.

Give me again the joy of your help;
with a spirit of fervour sustain me,
That I may teach transgressors your ways and sinners may return to you.

O rescue me, God, my helper,
and my tongue shall ring out your goodness. O Lord, open my lips
and my mouth shall declare your praise.

For in sacrifice you take no delight,
burnt offering from me you would refuse, My sacrifice, a contrite spirit.
A humbled, contrite heart you will not spurn.

In your goodness show favour to Zion:
Rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
Then you will be pleased with lawful sacrifice, (burnt offerings wholly consumed),
then you will be offered young bulls on your altar.

+Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

The Symbol of Faith

I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, the only-begotten, born of the Father before all ages. Light from light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, one in essence with the Father; through whom all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven and was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and became man. he was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried. He rose on the third day according to the scriptures. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he is coming again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Creator of life, who proceeds

from the Father. Together with the Father and the Son he is worshipped and glorified; he spoke through the prophets. In one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. I profess one baptism for the remission of sins. I expect the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Then,

The First Prayer

by Saint Macarius

O God, cleanse me, a sinner, for I have done but little good before You. Deliver me from evil, and may Your will be done in me so that I may open my lips without blame and praise Your holy Name, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

The Second Prayer

by Saint Macarius

Awakening from sleep, I offer You, O Savior, a hymn at the break of day. Bowing before You, I exclaim: Do not allow me to die in sin. Instead, O Lord, who was willingly crucified, have mercy on me. O Christ our God, raise me up, strengthen me in prayer and perseverance, and, after the night’s sleep, grant me a day without sin and save me.

The Third Prayer

by Saint Macarius

Awakening from sleep I hasten to You, O Master and Lover of mankind. As I, through Your mercy, begin to fulfill my duties to You, I beseech You: aid me every minute and in every deed. Deliver me from every worldly, evil thing and every impulse of the devil and save me and lead me to Your eternal kingdom. You are my Creator and the Giver of every blessing. In You I trust, and to You I give praise, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

A Prayer to God the Father

by Saint Basil the Great

O Lord almighty, God of powers and of all flesh, You dwell on high but watch over the humble; You search the heart and the innermost being of humans and clearly perceive their secrets. O Eternal and ever-existent Light, in You there is no change nor even a shadow of change. O Immortal King, accept our prayers which at this present moment depend upon the multitude of Your mercies and which we offer to You from defiled lips. Forgive our transgressions committed in word, deed, or thought, committed with knowledge or through thoughtlessness. Cleanse us from every kind of defilement of body and soul; and grant that we approach all the nights of this present life with a watchful heart and sound judgment, awaiting the glorious coming and day of revelation of Your only-begotten Son, our Lord, God, and Savior, Jesus Christ, who will come with glory as Judge of all, granting to everyone according to their works. Let us not fall and become slothful, but rather on guard and ready for action. Let us turn from our former ways and be ready to joyfully accompany Him into the divine innerchamber, where the sound of festive voices never ceases, and where there is indescribable delight in those who behold the inexpressible goodness of Your countenance. For You are the true Light that enlightens and sanctifies all things; and all creation praises You forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer to my Guardian Angel

by Saint Peter the Studite

O Holy Angel of Christ: in homage I come to you, my holy guardian who, since my baptism, have been assigned to me to protect my sinful body and soul. I beseech your powerful intercession. I have often offended you by my indolence and bad habits. You are most pure in your radiance, and I have often driven you away by my sins. But prostrating myself before you, my holy guardian, I beseech you, be merciful to me, your sinful and unworthy servant. Be my defender and aid me against my enemies through your holy intercession. And make me worthy to be a

partaker of the kingdom of God with all the saints, forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer to the Mother of God

by Saint Peter the Studite

O my most holy Lady and Mother of God, by your holy and all-powerful prayers, drive away from me, your humble and wretched servant, discouragement, forgetfulness, misunderstanding, carelessness; drive away all impure, wicked, and blasphemous thoughts from my bruised heart and clouded mind. Quench the flame of my passions because I am miserable and wretched. Save me from my numerous and evil thoughts and deeds; guard me from every wicked act, for you are blessed by all nations, and your honorable name is glorified, forever and ever. Amen.

Then:

It is truly proper to glorify you, O Theotokos, the ever- blessed, immaculate, and the Mother of our God. More honorable than the cherubim, and beyond compare more glorious than the seraphim; who, a virgin, gave birth to God the Word, you, truly the Theotokos, we magnify.

+Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, O Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us. Amen.

+In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Levántate de tu lecho, sin pereza y antes de empezar cualquier obra, colócate mentalmente en presencia del Creador y ora así:

+En el nombre del Padre, del Hijo y del Espíritu Santo, Amén.

Luego permanece en silencio hasta que se tranquilicen todos tus sentimientos e inclínate tres veces, diciendo:

Gloria a Ti, Nuestro Dios, gloria a Ti.

Oh, Rey Celestial, Consolador, Espíritu de la Verdad, que estás en todas partes y que llenas todo, Tesoro de bien y Dispensador de Vida! Ven y habita en nosotros, y purifícanos de toda mancha y salva nuestras almas, Oh Bondadoso.

Santo Dios, Santo Fuerte, Santo Inmortal, ten piedad de nosotros (3 veces).

Gloria al Padre, al Hijo, y al Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Oh, Santísima Trinidad, ten piedad de nosotros. Oh, Señor, perdona nuestros pecados. Oh, Soberano, absuelve nuestras transgresiones; Oh, Santo, mira y sana nuestras debilidades por tu Nombre.

Señor, ten piedad (3 veces).
Gloria al Padre, al Hijo y al Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre

y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Padre nuestro que estás en los cielos, santificado sea tu Nombre. Vénganos tu Reino, hágase tu Voluntad como en los Cielos así en la tierra. El pan nuestro substancial, dánoslo hoy, y perdona nuestras deudas, como perdonamos a nuestros deudores. Y no nos dejes caer en la tentación, más líbranos del maligno.

Tuyo es el Reino, el Poder y la Gloria, Padre, Hijo y Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Troparios:

Al levantarnos acudimos a Ti, oh Bondadoso y Te entonamos, oh Omnipotente, el himno angelical: Santo, Santo, Santo eres Tú, oh Dios, por la Madre de Dios, ten piedad de nosotros.

Gloria al Padre, al Hijo y al Espíritu Santo.

Del lecho y del sueño me levantaste, Señor, ilumina mi espíritu y mi corazón y abre mis labios para que Te alabe, oh Santa Trinidad, diciéndote: Santo, Santo, Santo eres Tú, oh Dios por la intercesión de la Madre de Dios, ten piedad de nosotros.

Ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

El supremo Juez vendrá de improviso y las obras de cada uno serán descubiertas, por eso en medio de la noche Te invocamos con temor, Santo, Santo, Santo eres Tú, oh Dios, por tu Santa Madre ten piedad de nosotros.

Señor ten piedad (12 veces). Oración

Al levantarme Te rindo gracias, oh Santísima Trinidad, por no haber desencadenado tu ira contra mí, pecador e indolente, en mérito de tu Bondad e infinita paciencia y por no haberme hecho perecer junto a mis iniquidades, sino que usando de tu habitual misericordia, me hayas levantado de mi letargo para que pueda desde el alba glorificar tu grandeza. Y ahora Señor, ilumina mi inteligencia, abre mis labios para instruirme con tus Palabras, comprender tus Mandamientos, y hacer tu Voluntad y alabarte

confesándote en mi corazón y glorificar tu Santísimo Nombre. Padre, Hijo, y Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

El Credo

CREO EN UN SOLO DIOS, Padre Omnipotente, Creador del cielo y de la tierra y de todas las cosas visibles e invisibles.

Y en un solo Señor Jesucristo, Hijo Unigénito de Dios nacido del Padre, antes de todos los siglos; Luz de Luz; verdadero Dios de Dios verdadero. Engendrado no creado; consubstancial al Padre, por Quien fueron hechas todas las cosas. Quien por nosotros los hombres y por nuestra salvación, bajó de los cielos y se encarnó del Espíritu Santo y María Virgen, y se hizo hombre. Fue crucificado también por nosotros bajo el poder de Poncio Pilato, padeció, fue sepultado. Resucitó al tercer día según las Escrituras. Subió a los cielos y está sentado a la diestra del Padre. Y vendrá por segunda vez lleno de gloria a juzgar a los vivos y a los muertos y su Reino no tendrá fin.

Y en el Espíritu Santo, Señor y Vivificador, que procede del Padre, que con el Padre y el Hijo es juntamente adorado y glorificado que habló por los profetas.

Y en la Iglesia Una, Santa, Católica y Apostólica. Confieso un solo bautismo para la remisión de los pecados. Espero la resurrección de los muertos y la vida del siglo venidero. Amén.

Oración de San Macario el Grande

Oh Dios, purifícame a mi pecador pues no he hecho nunca nada bueno en tu presencia; líbrame del malvado, y que Tu voluntad se haga en mí, para que yo pueda abrir mis labios indignos sin condenación y alabar el Santo Nombre de Padre, Hijo, y Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Oración segunda

Al despertar de mi sueño, Te ofrendo, oh Salvador, el cantar de medianoche y me prosterno diciéndote: concédeme no

dormirme para morir en pecado, al contrario apiádate de mí, oh Tú que fuiste voluntariamente crucificado, y Te apresuras a levantarme que estoy postrado, rendido por la pereza, y me salvas por la oración e intercesión, y después del sueño de la noche, bendíceme con un día inmaculado y sálvame, oh Cristo, Dios.

Oración tercera

Al despertar de mi sueño me acerco precipitadamente a Ti, oh Soberano, amante de la humanidad, y por tu bondad me esfuerzo por cumplir tu obra, y Te suplico: ayúdame siempre, en todo, y líbrame de todo lo malo del mundo, del demonio, que me apura, sálvame y llévame a Tu Reino eterno. Porque Tú eres mi Creador, el Donador y Proveedor de todo lo bueno, y toda mi esperanza está en Ti, yo Te alabo, ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Oración de San Basilio el Grande

Todopoderoso Señor, Dios de los poderes y de toda criatura, que vives en lo más alto y miras a los humildes, que escudriñas nuestros corazones y afectos, y sabes de antemano los secretos de los hombres; eterna e imperecedera luz, en Quien no hay cambio ni sombras de variación; oh Rey Inmortal, recibe nuestras plegarias, Te las ofrecemos con labios impuros, confiando en tus innumerables bendiciones. Perdónanos todos los pecados cometidos en pensamiento, palabra o acción, consciente e inconscientemente, y purifícanos de toda corrupción de la carne y el espíritu. Concédenos pasar la noche de la presente vida con el corazón alerta y el pensamiento cuerdo, aguardando siempre el advenimiento del día radiante de la aparición de Tu engendrado Hijo Único, nuestro Señor y Dios y Salvador, Jesucristo, cuando el Juez de todos ha de venir en gloria a juzgar a cada uno de acuerdo a sus actos. Ojalá no nos encuentre caídos en pecado ni ociosos, sino que despiertos y alertas para la acción, listos para acompañarlo en el divino palacio de sus bienaventuranzas donde se

oye un incesante sonido de los que aceptan el festín y el inefable placer de los que contemplan la inexpresable belleza de su Rostro. Porque Tú eres la verdadera luz que iluminas y santificas a todos, y toda la creación Te canta por los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Oración al Angel

Oh Angel Santo, intercede por mi alma despreciable y mi vida apasionada, no me abandones, ni me evadas por mi intemperancia. No des lugar a que el demonio insidioso me domine a causa de la violencia de mi cuerpo mortal. Fortalece mi pobre y débil mano y guíame por el camino de la salvación. Oh Angel Santo de Dios, guardián y protector de mi cuerpo y de alma miserables, perdóname todos los insultos que Te he dirigido todos los días de mi vida, y por todos los pecados que pueda haber cometido durante la pasada noche. Protégeme durante el presente día, y escúdame de toda tentación del enemigo, para que no pueda desairar a Dios por ningún pecado. Y ruega al Señor por mí, para que Él pueda fortalecerme en su temor, y hacerme, su esclavo, digno de su bondad. Amén.

Oración a la Virgen

Mi Santísima Soberana, Deípara [Madre de Dios], por tus santas y omnipotentes oraciones que destierren de mí tu humilde y despreciable servidor, el abatimiento, el olvido, la insensatez, la negligencia, y todos los pensamientos impuros, malignos e impíos de mi miserable corazón y de mi ofuscada mente. Y extingue la llama de mis pasiones, pues soy pobre y desdichado, y redímeme de mis numerosos crueles recuerdos y actos, y líbrame de todos sus nocivos efectos; pues bendita eres Tú por todas las generaciones, y glorificado sea tu muy honorable Nombre en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Canción a la Virgen

Alégrate, Virgen María, llena eres de gracia, El Señor es contigo, Bendita eres entre las mujeres, y bendito es el Fruto de tu Vientre, porque has dado a luz al Salvador de nuestras almas.

+Gloria al Padre, al Hijo y al Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

+Por las oraciones de nuestros Santos Padres, Señor Jesucristo Hijo de Dios, ten piedad de nosotros.

[This prayer of Saint Ephrem the Syrian (AD 305-373) is recited at Vespers, Matins and the other hours of prayer as well as privately during the Great Fast and is considered in the Byzantine churches as the most complete, succinct summary of the meaning of the Great Fast. The prayer has a Greek version and several Slavonic versions. The version used here is a translation of the 1639 Slavonic version used only by those churches that utilize the Ruthenian Recension.]

This prayer is prayed during the Holy and Great Forty Day Fast except on Saturdays and Sundays.

Lord and Master of my life,
Spare me from the spirit of indifference, despair, lust for power, and idle chatter.

Prostration

Instead, bestow on me, your servant,
the spirit of integrity, humility, patience and love.

Prostration

Yes, O Lord and King,
let me see my own sins
and not judge my brothers and sisters;
for you are blessed forever and ever. Amen.

Prostration

Then, pray the following four times, making the sign of the cross a total of twelve times.

O God, be merciful to me, a sinner.
O God, cleanse me of my sins and have mercy on me. O Lord, forgive me for I have sinned without number.

Pray the entire prayer from Lord and Master to forever and ever. Amen. and only one prostration at the end.

[The following prayers are used at the conclusion of Morning Prayers or else during the day according to one’s state in life, or according to one’s needs. These prayers appear in prayer books down the years, from Chl’ib Duši (Spiritual Bread), 1851, edited by the Great Enlightener, Father Alexander Duchnovich, also Moj Molitvennik-My Prayerbook Pittsburgh, 1941, edited by Father Julius Grigassy to the Byzantine Book of Prayer published by the Metropolitan Province of Pittsburgh, 1976. These prayers given here are from the Byzantine Book of Prayer pp. 55-71, available from Byzantine Seminary Press, Pittsburgh.

Prayer commending ourselves to God

O Lord, into your most merciful hands I commend my body and soul, thoughts and acts, desires and intentions. I commend the needs of my body and soul, future and past, my faith and hope, the end of my life, the day and hour of my death, the burial and resurrection of my body. O most merciful God, who clemency the sins of the world can never transcend, take me, a sinner, under the wings of your protection and deliver me from every evil. Cleanse my iniquities, grant me a reformation of my life, and protect me against future transgressions, that I may in no manner ever anger You. Shelter my weakness from passions and evil persons, guard me against my visible and invisible enemies, lead me on the road to salvation and to Yourself, the safe harbor and haven of my desires. Grant me a happy, peaceful, Christian death, and protect me from evil spirits. Be merciful to me, your servant, at the great judgment, and number me among the blessed flock who stand on your right, that, together with them, I may forever glorify You, my Creator. Amen.

Prayer before work

O Lord Jesus Christ, Only-begotten Son of your eternal Father, You have said with your holy lips: “Without Me, you can do nothing.” My Lord, I embrace your words with my heart and soul, and bow before your goodness and say: Help me, your unworthy servant, to complete this, my present undertaking, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Prayer after work

O most sweet Jesus, You are the fulfillment of all blessings. Fill my soul with joy and gladness and save me. Grant that your name may be glorified. For not to us, but to your name, are forever due honor, glory, and adoration. Amen.

Prayer for Priests

O Lord Jesus Christ, Shepherd of all the faithful: I humbly pray You to look upon your vicar on earth, our Holy Father Pope (Name). Bless his work and fulfill his good desires for the welfare of the holy Church. Give him strength and health that in peace he may govern the fold entrusted to his care and lead it to the heavenly kingdom. Amen.

O Lord, remember our bishops, especially Bishop (Eparchial Bishop), and bestow upon them the blessing of body and soul, that, by their word and example, they may point out the way that leads to you. Amen.

O Lord, bless and protect your representatives on earth, our priests, especially (Names), who labor in your vineyard for the salvation of souls redeemed by your most precious Blood. Give them prudence, perseverance, humility, and patience. Enkindle in their hearts the burning ardor which consumed the Apostles. May their lives be as holy as the truth they preach. Make them priests according to your own heart. Let their light so shine before all people that they, seeing their good work, may glorify the heavenly Father. Amen.

O Lord, enkindle the fire of holy zeal in the heart of all priests, that they may ever and in all things seek only your glory and incite us to an ever-increasing love for You. Give them strength that they may always labor for your glory and for the salvation of our souls. Amen.

Prayer for Wisdom and Virtue

My God, by whose grace I am able to distinguish good from evil, I beseech You: do not permit me to act against your commandments by word, deed, or thought. Especially guard me, Lord, when passions assail me and tempt me against your commandments. Grant me strength against the enemies of my salvation, and protect me that, with my advancing years, I may each day become more wise and virtuous. Grant this through the grace and mercies of your only-begotten Son, with whom You are blessed, together with your all-holy gracious, and life-giving Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer of the Married

O my most good God, I entreat You to listen to my humble prayer: may I always feel that the married state is holy, and that I must keep it holy. Grant me your grace that I may never sin against faithfulness and love in this marriage. Foster in me the spirit of understanding and of peace, so that no strife, quarrel or misunderstanding may arise between us. Grant us our daily bread whereby we may serve You evermore. Amen.

Prayer of Parent for Children

O holy Father, eternal God, from whom all goodness and blessing flow: I humbly pray to You for the children You have graciously given me. You have given them existence, and have renewed them in the waters of rebirth by virtue of which they are able to obey your commandments and attain the kingdom of heaven. Preserve them in your grace to the end of their life, and sanctify them that your Name be hallowed in them. Aid me also by your grace that I may bring them up for the glory of your holy Name and for the benefit of our fellow man. Grant me the necessary means to this end, together with patience and fortitude. O Lord, enlighten them by the light of your wisdom that they may love You with all their heart and soul. Instill in their hearts a fear of evil so that their way may be without sin. Adorn their soul with your virtues that they may prosper in holiness and grow in your favor. And, if at any

time they should sin against You, do not turn away from them but be merciful to them and awaken in them the spirit of contrition. Give them the goodness of the earth and everything necessary for eternal salvation. Protect them from misfortune, anger, privation, and from the snares of the devil all the days of their life. O Lord, grant me joy and happiness in my children. Enable me to appear with them at your awesome judgment, and there, without fear, to say: “Here I am, Lord, with the children You have given me.” That, together with them, praising your great goodness and eternal love, I may glorify your most holy Name, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer of Child for Parents

O merciful Lord God, You commanded me to honor my father and mother, and gave an example of obedience in your own earthy life. I humbly beseech You to hear my prayer and have mercy on my parents, Protect them from every evil, danger, and sickness. Grant them health, and in your mercy, pour out upon them your bountiful blessings. Bless their efforts and deeds. Have mercy on them according to your great mercy, that they may faithfully serve You, and that, through them, I also may be worthy to praise and serve You. Amen.

Prayer of an Orphan

O most merciful God, You preserve the life of every creature by your gracious providence. You never forsake even the smallest of creatures. I humbly entreat You not to withdraw from me. In your unfathomable decree, my parents have departed this life and I am deprived of their care and protection. O heavenly Father, take me under your care and be my protector. Console my afflicted heart by your care, and strengthen me by patience in my needs. Awaken pity in the hearts of my relatives and friends that they may give a helping hand. Preserve me from affliction, misfortune, harm, and suffering. O God, bless my protectors, instructors, and all my benefactors. Grant my departed parents the remission of their sins and the attainment of your kingdom. For it belongs to You to love

and save us, O Lord, and I glorify You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer for the Sick

O holy Father, Physician of souls and bodies, You sent your only begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to heal every infirmity and to deliver us from death. Heal your servant (Name) of every spiritual and bodily ill which afflicts him (her). Restore him (her) by the grace of your Christ through the prayers of our most holy Lady, the Mother of God and ever-Virgin Mary, and of all your saints. For You, our God, are the Fountain of healing, and we glorify You together with your only-begotten Son, and your consubstantial Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer for a Happy Death

O my Lord and Savior, strengthen me in my last hour by the powerful armor of your Holy Mysteries and the fragrance of your consolation. Let your absolving words be said over me, and let the holy oil anoint and seal me. Give me your Body and Blood to be my food and drink. Let your holy Mother come to me, and my guardian Angel bring me peace. Let your glorious Saints and my own Patron, Saint (Name), look upon me that, in and through them, I may die, as also I desire to live, in your faith and love and united to your Church. Amen.

Prayer for the Departed

O God of spirits and of all flesh, you trampled death and broke the power of the devil and granted life to your world. Now grant rest, O Lord, to the soul[s] of your departed servant[s] (Name[s]), in a place of light, joy, and peace where there is no pain, sorrow, nor mourning. As a good and loving God, forgive every sin committed by (him-her-them) in word, deed, or thought, since there is no one who lives and does not sin. You alone are without sin; your justice is eternal justice; and your word is truth. For you, O Christ our God, are the resurrection, the life, and the repose of your departed servant[s] (Name[s]), and we give glory to you, with your eternal

Father, and your all-holy, good, and life-creating Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer for a Deceased Child

O Lord, Jesus Christ, our God, You promised to grant the kingdom of heaven to those born of water and the Spirit, who came to you in innocence for You said: “Let the little children come to Me, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” We humbly beseech You to grant to your servant, the innocent child, (Name), who has departed from us, the inheritance of your kingdom according to your truthful promise. Grant that we also live in innocence, and, attaining a Christian end of our lives, may dwell with all the saints in your heavenly court. For You are the resurrection, the life, and the repose of all your servants, and of your departed servant, the child (Name), O Christ our God, and we glorify You, together with your eternal Father, and your all-holy, gracious, and life-giving Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer in Time of Mourning

O Lord, You are the joy and solace of the afflicted and the shield of the faint-hearted. In your compassion, comfort those who are in mourning. Give rest in the bosom of Abraham to your servant[s] (Name) who died in the hope of rising to eternal life. For You are a gracious God and You love mankind, and we glorify You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer to our Lady of Mariapoch

[This icon of the Mother of God was written by Stefan Papp, the brother of the parish priest of the village of Povch, in the kingdom of Hungary. It shed tears for the first time November 14, 1696, and again December 8 to 19, 1696. The Emperor Leopold had this icon transferred to Saint Stephen Cathedral, Vienna where it remains to this day. A replacement copy was made for the church at the village, now renamed Mariapovch. This copy also shed tears August 1, 2, 3, 1715 and the most recent occasion in December, 1905.]

O most blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of mercy, adorned with miracles, whose icon shed tears at the place of your mercy in Mariapoch: we who honor you humbly beseech your motherly care. Save our country from all its enemies, protect the Church, and join all in one faith that, at last, the words of Christ may be fulfilled: “There shall be one fold and one shepherd.” Do not deny us your intercession, but obtain for us peaceful times, health for our bodies and peace for our souls. Obtain for us the grace that our last hour may find us in the Christian faith and in the state of grace, so that we may gain eternal salvation. Amen.

Prayer to our Mother of Perpetual Help

[In response to the request of Mother Macrina, Pope Pius XI ordered a copy of the Icon of our Lady of Perpetual Help made in 1935 for the Sisters of Saint Basil the Great at Mt. St. Macrina, Uniontown, PA with the instruction to foster devotion to the Mother of God under this title. The icon has formed the focus of the annual Labor Day weekend pilgrimage ever since then.]

O Mother of Perpetual Help: with the greatest of confidence I approach you to implore your aid. You have seen the wounds of your Son and his blood shed for our salvation. You know how He desires our salvation. Because of this, I kneel before you and beseech you to obtain for me the mercy of which I stand in such great need. O Mary, most amiable among women, obtain the favor I seek from Jesus, the source of all good. O Mother of Perpetual Help, I do not trust in my own merits but in your powerful intercession. I trust in your goodness and in your motherly love. For the love that you have for Jesus, your Son and my Savior; for the love of the souls faithful to you; and for the sake of your love for my soul: obtain for me all the graces and favors I ask of you. Amen.

Prayer to St. Nicholas of Myra

O Saint Nicholas, bountiful father and special patron of our Byzantine Catholic Church: you are a shepherd and teacher to all who invoke your protection, and who, by devout prayer, call upon you for aid. Hasten and save the flock of Christ from ravenous wolves; and by your holy prayers protect all Christians and save them from worldly disturbances, earthquakes, attacks from abroad, from internal strife, from famine, flood, fire, sword, and sudden death. As you had mercy on those three men in prison and saved them from the king’s wrath, now also have mercy on me who by word, deed, and thought have sunk into the darkness of sin. Save me from the just anger of God, and from eternal punishment. Through your intercession and aid, as well as through your own mercy and grace, may Christ our God allow me to lead a tranquil and sinless life, and save me from standing at “his left,” but deem me worthy to stand at “his right” with all the saints. Amen.

Prayer to Ss. Cyril and Methodius

O holy Apostles to the Slavs, Cyril and Methodius: you led our forefathers, and us with them, from the darkness of pagan error to the light of the True Faith of Chris, and now you rejoice with Christ in heaven. Sincerely, we rejoice in your glory, with which God has rewarded your untiring zeal, and we humbly thank Him for the great gift of Christianity which our heavenly Father has bestowed upon us through your efforts. Intercede with God for us, who are unworthy descendants of Adam, that He may strengthen us in the True Faith, which you preached to our forefathers. Amen.

Prayers in Time of Illness

Almighty Master, Physician of our souls and bodies, who both humble and uplift, who chastise and heal: visit me with your mercy in my time of illness. Stretch forth your am that is full of health and healing, and heal me, and allow me to leave my sick-bed. Banish my weakness and pains, heal my wounds, quench my fever, and prevent a relapse. If I am guilty of sins or transgressions, loose, remit, and forgive them for the sake of your love toward

mankind. Yes, O Lord, pity me, your creature, through Christ Jesus our Lord with whom You are blessed, and through your all-holy, gracious, and life-giving Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Almighty God, Holy King: You do not wish our death as a chastisement. You lift up those who have fallen. You raise those who have been cast down, and You ease the physical ills of mankind. I beseech You, my God, have mercy on me, your servant, and heal my soul and body. Cleanse and banish every suffering, disease, illness and weakness of body and soul. Send down, O Lord, your healing power from heaven; strengthen my body, diminish my fever, alleviate my suffering, and banish every hidden ailment. Be a physician to your servant, raise me from my sick-bed and restore my health. Grant that I may always please You by doing your will. For only You can be all-merciful and save us, O God, and to You we glorify, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

O Lord, our God, your word alone healed both chronic disease and passing sickness. You also cured the mother-in-law of Peter of her fever. You chastise with pity, and You heal according to your goodness, and You can banish every illness and weakness. Now, O Lord, also relieve me, your servant; cure me of the sickness which oppresses me; lift me up from my sick-bed and send down your mercy upon me; and grant me health and a complete cure. For You are the Physician of our souls and bodies, and we glorify You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

(In time of fever)

O Lord Jesus Christ, our God, You are a River flowing in a desert, and the Shadow of a great rock in a sun-scorched land. At the prayerful request of your apostle Peter, You dispelled the fever of his mother-in-law. I now beseech You: hear my supplication for the remission of my sins, and in your compassion, ease the pain, subdue the fever of my ailment, and let me find refuge in You. With your omnipotent right hand, quench the fire within me, ease my pain, and in your mercy, raise me from my sick-bed. For You are a merciful God and the Lover of mankind, and we glorify You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer for a Sick Child

O Lord Jesus Christ, who came into this world as an infant, and though truly God, were subject to your earthly parents: grant that your child, (Name), bear cheerfully whatever You are pleased that he (she) should bear, and also grant ready obedience to those whom You have set over him (her). Yes, O Lord, Son of God, deign to send your holy Angel from heaven to guard, cherish, protect, visit, and defend this your child (Name), sick in his (her) tender years. Stretch forth your holy right hand upon him (her) that, restored to vigorous health, he (she) may reach the fullness of years and serve You faithfully and gratefully all his (her) life and become an heir to your kingdom. For You are the Physician of our souls and bodies, O Christ our God, and we glorify You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Thanksgiving for Recovery

O Lord Jesus Christ, the Life and Strength of all who place their trust in You: your mercies are numberless and the treasury of your goodness is infinite. I thank You for the blessings which You have bestowed upon me, and I humbly beseech You to restore my bodily health, so now endow my soul with all heavenly graces and perseverance in good works. Prepare me by your blessings in this life for the enjoyment of eternal happiness in the life to come. For to You are due all glory, thanksgiving, and adoration, together with your eternal Father and your all-holy, gracious and life-giving Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Blessing of a House

We fervently implore You, O Almighty God, in behalf of this house, those who dwell in it and all it contains: bless and sanctify it, and cause every kind of goodness to multiply in it. O Lord, grant to your servants an abundance of the dew from heaven and of the bounties of earth, and, through your mercy, bring all their desires to a good conclusion. Deign to bless and sanctify this home by your entrance, as You blessed the home of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Let the angels reflecting your glory dwell also within the

walls of this house, protecting those who live in it. For You are a merciful God who loves mankind, and we glorify You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer before a Journey

O Lord, our God, Jesus Christ, the true and living Way, who deigned to journey into Egypt with Joseph and Mary, and who accompanied Luke and Cleophas to Emmaus: we humbly pray, O all-holy Master, that You accompany us with your grace on our journey. Send us, as You sent to Tobias, a guardian angel, preserving and delivering us from every evil assault of visible and invisible enemies. Direct us toward the fulfillment of your commandments. Preserve us in peace, happiness, and health. Grant us the fulfillment of our good intentions which are for your glory and in accordance with your good pleasure. Let us return in safety and peace, for to You it belongs to show mercy and to save us all who give glory to You, and to your eternal Father, and to your all- holy, gracious, and life-giving Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

[The Evening Prayers here are the shortened version of Evening Prayers for lay people “living in the world” as they appear in prayerbooks from Chl’ib Duši, 1851, and in America Moj Molitvennik-My Prayerbook, 1941 to the Byzantine Book of Prayer, published by Byzantine Seminary Press, 1976. The Evening Prayers in full are given in Velikij Sbornik, 1877 and the Časoslov, Rome, 1962. In that full form, it is evident that Evening Prayers are modeled after Vespers, the official evening prayer of the Church. Since none of us are an only child of God, the Church offers prayers for all sons and daughters adopted by God through holy baptism to pray united in one mind and heart and voice.]

+In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, O Lord Jesus Christ, our God, have mercy on us. Amen.

Glory to You, our God, glory to You!

Heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth, everywhere present and filling all things. Treasury of Blessings and Giver of Life, come and dwell within us, cleanse us of all stain, and save our souls, O gracious One.

+Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us. (Three times).

+Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Most holy Trinity, have mercy on us; Lord, cleanse us of our sins; Master, forgive our transgressions; Holy One come to us and heal our infirmities for your Name’s sake.

Lord, have mercy. (Three times).

+Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Troparia of Repentance

Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us: since we have no defense, we sinners offer this supplication to You, our Master, have mercy on us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

Lord, have mercy on us, for in You we place our hope, be not exceedingly angry with us nor mindful of our transgressions; but look upon us even now with mercy and deliver us from our enemies, for You are our God and we are Your people: we are all the work of Your hands, and we call upon Your name.

Now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Theotokion:

Open to us the doors of mercy, O blessed Mother of God, that we, who place our trust in you may not perish, but that through you we be delivered from misfortune; for you are the salvation of all Christians.

Then:
Lord, have mercy. Twelve.

Then these prayers in order with understanding and contrition.

The First Prayer,
of Saint Makarius the Great, to God the Father

O eternal God and Ruler of all creation, You have allowed me to reach this hour. Forgive the sins I committed today by word, deed, or in thought. Purify me, O Lord, from every spiritual and physical stain. Grant me, Lord, to pass the sleep of this night in peace. Grant that I may rise from this lowly bed to glorify You by my deeds throughout my entire lifetime, and that I may be victorious over every spiritual and physical enemy. Deliver me, O Lord, from all vain thoughts and evil desires, for Yours, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

The Second Prayer,
to God the Son, by Saint Antiochus

O Almighty Word of the Father, Jesus Christ, who alone are perfect: according to the greatness of your mercy, do not abandon me, your servant, but ever rest in my heart. O Jesus, Good Shepherd of Your sheep, deliver me from the attacks of the devil. Do not allow me to become the pray of Satan’s evil intention, even though I have within me the seeds of eternal damnation. Instead, O Jesus Christ, Lord God, holy King who alone are worshipped, while I sleep protect me by Your Unwaning Light, the Holy Spirit, through Whom You sanctified Your disciples. O Lord, grant salvation to me, Your unworthy servant, as I lie in my bed. Enlighten my mind by the light of understanding of Your holy Gospel, my soul by the love of Your cross, my heart by the purity of Your teaching. Protect my body by Your sacred passion, my senses by Your humility, and awaken me in due time for Your glorification. For You, above all, are glorified with Your eternal Father, and Your most Holy Spirit, forever. Amen

The Third Prayer, to the Most Holy Spirit

O Lord, heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth, have compassion and mercy on me, Your unworthy servant. Forgive me, unworthy as I am, and remit whatever sins I have committed today both through human frailty and through acting less than human. Forgive my voluntary and involuntary sins, those committed knowingly or through ignorance—which are from my youth and the knowledge of evil—and those which have arisen from arrogance and despondency. Forgive me if I have reproached or cursed someone in my anger, or if I have afflicted grief or have become angry for some reason. Forgive me if I have lied, or unsuitably slept, or turned away a poor person who came to me. Forgive me if I have caused grief for my brother or sister, or judged, or condemned someone. Forgive me if, while at prayer, my mind wandered on the glamorous things of this world, of if I thought about depraved things. Forgive me if I was guilty of acting foolishly, thought evil, or desired in my heart the property of another. Forgive me if I have said indecent things or laughed at the sin of my brother or sister without discerning my own sins, which are great in number. Forgive me if I have been neglectful in my prayers, or guilty of some evil action which I cannot now recall, for I have committed these sins and even much greater sins. Have mercy on me, Your dejected and unworthy servant, O my Master and Creator. Remit, pardon, and forgive me, for You are good and the Lover of mankind. May I, who am dissolute, sinful, and cursed, lie down in peace to sleep and rest, and I will adore, praise, and glorify Your most honorable name with the Father and His only- begotten Son, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Prayer to the Most Holy Mother of God by Saint Peter the Studite

O good Mother of the good King, O most pure and blessed Mother of God, Mary, pour upon my suffering soul the mercy of your Son and our God. By your prayers guide me to do good deeds. Grant that I may spend the rest of my life without fault and attain paradise through you, O Virgin Mother of God; for you alone are pure and blessed.

Prayer to the Holy Guardian Angel

O Guardian Angel, protector of my soul and body, to your care I have been entrusted by Christ. Obtain for me the forgiveness of the sins committed by me this day. Protect me from the snares of my enemy that I may never more offend God by my sin. Pray for me, your sinful and unworthy servant, that through your help I may become worthy of the grace and mercy of the most Holy Trinity, and of the Mother of my Lord God, Jesus Christ, and of all the saints. Amen.

Then,

The Kontakion of the Mother of God:

We are yours, O Mother of God. Since you have delivered us from all tribulations, we give thanks to you by dedicating our songs of victory to you, O Saving Champion. In your invincible might, deliver us from all dangers that we may exclaim to you: Hail, full of grace!

Then:

O most glorious, ever-Virgin Mother of Christ, our God, offer up our prayers to your Son and our God, so that, through you, Mother of God, He may save our souls.

I place all my hope in you, Mother of God. Protect me under your patronage.

O Virgin Mother of God, do not turn away from me, a sinner, for I need your help and intercession. Have mercy on me, for my soul hopes in you.

Then,

The Prayer of Saint Joannicius

The Father is my hope; the Son is my refuge;

and the Holy Spirit is my protection. O Holy Trinity, glory to You!

Then:

It is truly proper to glorify you, O Theotokos, the ever blessed, immaculate, and the Mother of our God. More honorable than the cherubim, and beyond compare more glorious than the seraphim; who, a virgin, gave birth to God the Word, you, truly the Theotokos, we magnify.

+Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen.

May the Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, through the prayers of the most pure Mother of God, of the venerable and God-bearing fathers, and of all the saints, save me, a sinner. Amen.

+En el nombre del Padre, del Hijo y del Espíritu Santo, Amén.

Gloria a Ti, Nuestro Dios, gloria a Ti.

Oh, Rey Celestial, Consolador, Espíritu de la Verdad, que estás en todas partes y que llenas todo, Tesoro de bien y Dispensador de Vida! Ven y habita en nosotros, y purifícanos de toda mancha y salva nuestras almas, Oh Bondadoso.

Santo Dios, Santo Fuerte, Santo Inmortal, ten piedad de nosotros (3 veces).

Gloria al Padre, al Hijo, y al Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Oh, Santísima Trinidad, ten piedad de nosotros. Oh, Señor, perdona nuestros pecados. Oh, Soberano, absuelve nuestras transgresiones; Oh, Santo, mira y sana nuestras debilidades por tu Nombre.

Señor, ten piedad (3 veces).
Gloria al Padre, al Hijo y al Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre

y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Padre nuestro que estás en los cielos, santificado sea tu Nombre. Vénganos tu Reino, hágase tu Voluntad como en los Cielos así en la tierra. El pan nuestro substancial, dánoslo hoy, y perdona nuestras deudas, como perdonamos a nuestros deudores. Y no nos dejes caer en la tentación, más líbranos del maligno.

Porque Tuyo es el Reino, el Poder y la Gloria, Padre, Hijo y Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Tropario Tono 6

Ten piedad de nosotros, oh Señor, ten piedad de nosotros: pues faltos de toda disculpa, nosotros, los pecadores, Te dirigimos como a Soberano esta súplica: ten piedad de nosotros.

Gloria al Padre, al Hijo y al Espíritu Santo.

Señor, ten piedad de nosotros, pues en Ti hemos puesto nuestra esperanza. No Te irrites demasiado contra nosotros, ni Te acuerdes de nuestras iniquidades, sino míranos porque eres benevolente, y líbranos de nuestros enemigos. Pues Tú eres nuestro Dios, y nosotros tu pueblo. Todos somos obra de tus Manos e invocamos tu Nombre.

Ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Ábrenos las puertas de la misericordia, oh bendita Deípara [Madre de Dios], para que no sucumbamos los que confiamos en Ti, sino que seamos libres con tu ayuda de toda adversidad, pues Tú eres la salvación del pueblo cristiano.

Señor ten piedad (12 veces). Oración a Dios Padre

Oración de San Macario El Grande

Oh Dios eterno y Rey de toda la creación, que te has dignado conservarme hasta esta hora, perdóname los pecados que he cometido hoy con acciones, palabras y pensamientos y purifica Señor mi humilde alma de toda la impureza de la carne y del espíritu. Concédeme Señor, que duerma en paz esta noche, para que cuando me levante de mi humilde lecho pueda complacer tu Santísimo Nombre todos los días de mi vida y derribar y conquistar a los carnales y descarnados enemigos que me combaten. Líbrame oh Señor de los pensamientos vanos y las concupiscencias perversas que me manchan. Porque tuyo es el Reino, el Poder y la Gloria, del Padre, del Hijo y del Espíritu Santo, ahora y siempre, y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Oración a nuestro Señor Jesucristo

Omnipotente, Verbo del Padre, perfecto por excelencia, Jesucristo, Tú, que por tu misericordia infinita, nunca abandonarás a tu servidor, sino que reposas siempre en él, Jesús Buen Pastor de tus ovejas, no me entregues a los ardides de la serpiente seductora, ni me dejes a merced de Satanás, porque el germen de corrupción está en mí. Por lo tanto, Señor Dios, ante quien nos prosternamos, Jesucristo, Rey Santo, consérvame durante mi sueño por tu luz inextinguible, por tu Santo Espíritu, con el cual santificaste a tus discípulos. Oh Señor, concede a tu indigno servidor, tu salvación en mi lecho. Ilumina mi mente con la luz de comprensión de tu Santo Evangelio, mi alma con el amor de tu Cruz, mi corazón con la pureza de tu Palabra, mi cuerpo con tu Pasión impasionada. Preserva mi pensamiento con tu humildad y estimúlame oportunamente para glorificarte, pues Tú eres supremamente alabado con Tu Padre co-eterno y el Santísimo Espíritu por siempre. Amén.

Oración al Espíritu Santo

Señor Rey de los cielos, Consolador, Espíritu de Verdad, ten misericordia y piedad de mí tu servidor pecador e indigno y absuelve todos los pecados que humanamente cometí hoy, y no sólo como hombre, incluso peor que una bestia, mis pecados voluntarios e involuntarios cometidos en conciencia o ignorancia, los de mi juventud y por falsas sugerencias, aquellos que son frutos de la temeridad o de la aflicción. Si he jurado por tu Nombre, o lo he vilipendiado en mi pensamiento, o he reprochado a alguien, o en mi ira he injuriado o calumniado.

Si a alguien he entristecido, o si me he enojado por nada, si he mentido, si he dormido innecesariamente, si un mendigo ha acudido a mí y lo he despreciado, si causo pena a mi hermano o discutido con él, o si he juzgado a alguno, si me he envanecido, o enorgullecido, o si la ira me dominó o si durante la oración mi mente se ha distraído por la fascinación de este mundo, si mi imaginación se ha complacido en pensamientos impuros, si me entregué a la gula o a la embriaguez, o si he reído en exceso, o he pensado mal, si he codiciado lo ajeno, o he pronunciado palabras

ilícitas, o me he burlado de las faltas de mi prójimo, cuando las mías son innumerables, o he descuidado la oración o he incurrido en cualquier otro pecado que no puedo recordar, todo esto y mucho más, Te confieso hacedor mío Soberano, apiádate de mi, tu afligido e indigno, servidor redímeme, absuélveme y perdóname en tu bondad y amor a los hombres, a fin de que lascivo, pecaminoso y despreciable como soy, pueda acostarme y gozar de un sueño tranquilo y venerar, alabar y glorificar tu Honorabilísimo Nombre, con el Padre y Su Hijo Unigénito, ahora y siempre y en los siglos de los siglos. Amén.

Oración al Angel Guardián

Oh Angel de Cristo, Santo Guardián y Protector de mi alma y de mi cuerpo, perdóname todos mis pecados de hoy. Líbrame de todos los ardides del enemigo, para que no encolerice a mi Dios con ningún pecado. Ruega por mí, pecador e indigno servidor, para presentarme digno de la bondad y misericordia de la Santísima Trinidad, de la Madre de mi Señor Jesucristo, y de todos los Santos. Amén.

Oración a la Santísima Madre de Dios

Oh Madre Benigna del buen Rey, Purísima y siempre Bendita Deípara María, derrama en mi alma apasionada la gracia de tu Hijo y nuestro Dios y guíame por tus oraciones en el cumplimiento de las buenas obras, a fin de que pase sin pecado el curso de mi vida y obtenga el Paraíso, por tu intercesión. Virgen Deípara, Única, Purísima y Bendita.

Kontaquio a la Virgen María

Yo tu ciudad oh Deípara, Te canto una canción de triunfo, oh guerrera y defensora. Y Te presento el agradecimiento oh libradora de los apuros y como Tú eres invencible, líbrame de las múltiples desgracias para exclamarte: Regocíjate, Oh Novia no desposada.

Muy loable, Siempre-Virgen, bendita Madre de Cristo Dios, ofrece nuestras plegarias al Hijo y nuestro Dios, rogándole para que salve por tu mediación, nuestras almas.

Deposito toda mi esperanza en Ti, oh Madre de Dios. Escúdame bajo tu amparo.

Oh Virgen Deípara no me rechaces a mí, pecador, exigiendo tu auxilio y protección, pues mi alma ha puesto en Ti su confianza y apiádate de mí.

Oración de San Joanicio

El Padre es mi Esperanza,
el Hijo mi Refugio,
el Espíritu Santo mi Albergue, Oh Santísima Trinidad, Gloria a Ti.

Gloria al Padre… Ahora y siempre… Amén. Señor ten piedad (3 veces).

+Señor Jesucristo, Hijo de Dios por las oraciones de tu Purísima Madre, por nuestros venerables y teóforos Padres y por todos los Santos, sálvame a mí, pecador.

[These prayers before retiring are taken from Let Us Pray to the Lord, Vol. 1 published with the ecclesiastical approbation of Metropolitan Judson Procyk by Eastern Christian Publications, 1997. They follow the general arrangement according to the Časoslov, Rome, 1962 with small adjustments for laity.]

Before retiring, express your gratitude to God for the blessings he has given you today. Remember before God your loved ones, parents, wife or husband, children and friends, as well as those who serve God’s holy Church, your spiritual father, those who do charitable work, and this nation, its government and people, and then say:

Finally, Lord, be mindful of all mankind: the young and the old, the poor and those with the responsibility of wealth, the oppressed and those who have the responsibility of freedom, the weak and the sick, the orphaned, and those weighed down by grief; have mercy on us all, and give us the grace necessary to live a life pleasing to You, that we may ever praise your name.

Recall to mind your sins and offenses which you have committed today, and ask for forgiveness, saying:

O God, remit, pardon, and forgive my sins committed deliberately of through human frailty, in word and by deed, knowingly and in ignorance, with foreknowledge and purpose, by day and by night. Forgive all these, for You are good, and You love humanity.

When about to lie down in bed, say:

[Ps. 12: 4, 5] Give light to my eyes, O Christ God, lest I fall asleep in death, lest my enemies say: “I have prevailed.”

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

O God, be the defender of my soul, for I walk through the midst of many enemies. Deliver me from them, and save me, O Blessed One, for You love mankind.

Now and ever, and forever. Amen.

Let us with our hearts and lips unceasingly extol the most glorious Mother of God, holier than the holy angels, and proclaim that she is truly the Theotokos for she has truly given birth to God in the flesh and never ceases to intercede for our souls.

Then kiss your cross, and make the sign of the cross with your cross from the head to the foot of your bed, and likewise from side to side, saying the Prayer of the Precious Cross:

Encircle me, Lord, with your precious and life-giving cross and protect me from all evil.

Into your hands, Lord Jesus, I commend myself. Bless me, have mercy on me, and grant me eternal life. Amen.

Then, make the sign of the Cross on yourself, and with prayer go to sleep, thinking of the Day of Judgment and of how you shall have to stand before God.

(Besa la Santa Cruz. Has la señal de la cruz en tu cuerpo desde la cabeza hasta los pies. También has la Santa señal alrededor tuyo, expulsando los demonios, diciendo esta oración en honor de la Santa Cruz):

Levántase Dios y sean disipados sus enemigos, y huyan de su presencia los que Lo aborrecen; desaparezcan como el humo, como se derrite la cera al calor del fuego, así perezcan los enemigos de la vista de los que aman a Dios, y que hacen la señal de la Cruz en sí mismos: que claman con regocijo: Regocíjate, oh venerable, vivificadora Cruz del Señor expulsando a los demonios por la fuerza de Aquel que estaba crucificado sobre Ti, nuestro Señor Jesucristo, que bajó al Hades y pisoteó la fuerza del diablo y que nos dio a Ti, gloriosa Cruz para expulsar a cualquier adversario, oh honorable y vivificadora Cruz del Señor, ayúdame junto con la Santa Soberana Virgen Deípara y con todos los santos por los siglos. Amén.

En tus manos, Señor Jesucristo, Dios mío, encomiendo mi espíritu; bendíceme, apiádate de mí y concédeme la vida eterna. Amén.