About #Prayers
Question፦ Hello,
A quick question about prayer.
I noticed that protests tend to ask others to pray for them often and pray with them out loud while holding their hand or just saying the prayer out loud like “ Heavenly Father, I pray that you bless this persons day, etc”.
In the Orthodox faith, I noticed when we pray for others we tend to do it in privet. We don’t hold people’s hands or do it out loud often.
Is there an issue with that prayer format. For example, if I’m at work and I hold my patients or their family’s hand and ask to pray for them would that be considered a non orthodox way of praying.
Thank you.
Answer፦ Peace be upon you, my child, and may the blessings of our Lord be upon you. Your question reflects a discerning heart, sensitive to the nuances of prayer within our ancient faith.
You are correct that within the Orthodox tradition, prayer for others is often offered privately and silently. This stems from the understanding, echoing Christ's words in Matthew 6:6, that our Father "who sees in secret will reward you openly." We approach prayer with humility, not seeking outward validation but intimate communion with God.
However, this does not negate the power of communal or spoken prayer. The Scriptures themselves are replete with examples of collective supplication, and the Church has preserved beautiful liturgical prayers for the well-being of others.
Consider your example of praying with a patient. While holding their hand might not be our customary practice, if your heart is moved by genuine compassion and you feel led by the Spirit to offer comfort through prayer, do not stifle this impulse. You can say, "Would you like me to pray for you?" and then offer a heartfelt prayer, even a simple "Lord have mercy," uttered with sincerity, can be a source of solace.
Remember, my child, that God looks upon the heart. As St. Isaac the Syrian wisely said, "The fragrance of the heart is purity of prayer." Whether uttered silently in the depths of our hearts or spoken aloud in the presence of others, let our prayers always be seasoned with love, humility, and faith.
If you find yourself grappling with this further, do not hesitate to seek the counsel of your spiritual father. He, guided by the Holy Spirit, can offer personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
May the Lord guide your steps and illuminate your path.
May the name of the Holy God be praised forever and ever in every tongue that He has created, today and always.
May the blessings of God's mother, the virgin, and the cross be upon us. Amen.
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