Prayers to Jesus Christ
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. In these few words lies the heart of Orthodox prayer — a ceaseless invocation of the Name above every name.
The Jesus Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.
This short prayer, rooted in the Gospel and the Church Fathers, is the cornerstone of Orthodox spirituality. It may be prayed at any time, in any place — while working, walking, or keeping vigil. The prayer rope (komboskini) is traditionally used to keep count, but the heart of the practice is not counting but attention and love.
Prayer Before the Cross
O Lord Jesus Christ, Who didst stretch out Thy most pure hands upon the Cross and didst shed Thy precious blood for the salvation of the world: I venerate Thy Cross, I glorify Thy Passion, and I beseech Thee, by the power of Thy life-giving Cross, to protect me from every evil, to strengthen me against every temptation, and to lead me into Thy eternal Kingdom. Amen.
Prayer of St. Ioannikios
My hope is the Father; my refuge is the Son; my protection is the Holy Spirit. O Holy Trinity, glory to Thee.