How Do Orthodox Christians Pray?

Prayer in Orthodox Christianity is communion with God. It includes personal words spoken from the heart, prayers received from the tradition of the Church, the Psalms and other passages of Scripture, and the common worship of the Church.

Personal and traditional prayer

Orthodox Christians may speak to God in their own words, but they also use established prayers that have formed Christian spiritual life for centuries. Traditional prayers can teach the faithful how to praise God, give thanks, repent, and pray for others.

Prayer is not limited to asking for things

Petition is only one part of prayer. Orthodox prayer also includes thanksgiving, praise, repentance, remembrance of others, and quiet attention to God.

The Psalms and Scripture

The Psalms have a particularly important place in Orthodox prayer. They are used extensively in church services and may also be read privately. Other passages of Holy Scripture likewise become part of personal prayer and meditation.

Prayer with the whole person

Orthodox Christians commonly make the sign of the Cross, bow, stand before icons, and sometimes light a candle or vigil lamp while praying. These practices reflect the understanding that both body and soul participate in prayer.

Prayer with the Church

Personal prayer is connected with the liturgical life of the Church. The Divine Liturgy and other services unite individual prayer with the worship of the Christian community.

Orthodox spiritual life therefore does not depend on a single method of prayer. Its goal is a continuing relationship with God that gradually shapes the thoughts, choices, and life of the Christian.