Develop a Prayer Rule

Published: Saturday November 01 2008.

Having a prayer rule is very important for an Orthodox Christian. For the profit of our souls and the development of a personal relationship with Jesus, we must be disciplined in our approach to prayer. Below is example of how you can develop a prayer rule, but always remember, prayer is personal and you should do the best you can.

  • Upon awakening from sleep – cross yourself immediately and thank God for bringing you into the new day.

  • After you wash and dress but before you eat, stand before the Icon of Christ and recite the Lord’s Prayer, ask God to help you through the day and pray for those whom you love, are sick, who need help, etc.

  • Before you eat any meals cross yourself, thank God for the food He provides for you and that He continues to bless you always. Recite the Lord’s Prayer before all meals. When you finish eating, cross yourself and give thanks again.

  • When you go to school, get on the bus, or in the car, be sure to cross yourself and ask God to protect you in your travels.

  • Throughout the day, ask God to help you with all of your activities, work, play, school by using the Jesus Prayer (Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me a sinner).

  • Before going to sleep, stand before the Icon of Christ and thank Him for the day. Pray for those who you learned may need help, for yourself and your loved ones. Ask His forgiveness for any offenses and that He blesses you with a peaceful sleep.

  • Just before going to sleep, recite the following: “Into thy hands O Lord I commend my soul and my body. Do thou O Lord bless me, have mercy on me and grant me life everlasting. Amen.”

The Western American Diocese has printed a pocket size prayer book with all the essential prayers for us that we can use every day. If you go to the Western Diocesan website, you can order your own copy and maybe even another for a loved one or friend!