Publisher's Synopsis
Given the difficulties of our times, these traditional short prayers can be a great help in our spiritual life: Easy to remember and needing little time, they are suitable for almost any situation. Also included is the traditional Service with the Prayer of the Name (the Jesus Prayer) - as handed on by various ascetics from the Holy Mountain for the benefit of the faithful, even those living 'in the world'.
This special first edition, in full colour, presents both the prayers and accompanying introductions and commentary in a beautiful calligraphic design, illustrated throughout with colour photographs and line-drawings. Published in standard colour-printing on 70lb paper, to keep prices reasonable, this is an affordable but very special gift, to inspire and encourage the use of these short prayers - each according to our measure.
ABOUT THE CONTENTS
The initial inspiration for this little work was an ancient series of twenty-four short prayers 'written down by Saint John Chrysostom'. A closer look revealed a hidden depth, as it were the description of the inner struggle towards a life entirely guided by the will of God. Inspired by this teaching of the Saint, the prayers are presented one by one - to aid our concentration when pondering Saint John's 'Little Ladder' of good thoughts.
With time, a few other prayers were added, forming this small collection - including a special series, patterned on the ancient practice of the Jesus Prayer, as proposed by one of our bishops for these times of tribulation - to inspire and encourage us towards living prayerfully wherever we may be, at all times and in all circumstances: truly an aid towards 'redeeming the time' (Eph., Col.4).
To provide some background to these texts, rooted as they are in the ancient but living Orthodox Christian Tradition, each prayer or set of prayers is accompanied by a small pondering and/or introduction - including also some teachings of the Saints on the life of prayer, and how to maintain an inspiring prayer rule.
The Service with the Prayer of the Name - for both personal use and common prayer - has been added as a special appendix. Besides some notes on its usage, this includes a basic outline (for use with one's own prayer book) as well as full texts - so that, if necessary, one could do such a service with only a Bible or Psalter besides this book. + + +
