Strong Prayer.

The power of prayer. Who can deny it? Knowing we have Our Father who loves us, hears us, is with us, and who answers our prayer. Nothing comforts more than knowing He's right here - right now. Pray this beloved prayer from the Optina Elders. Memorize it. Believe it. Holy Elders pray for us.

Optina Hermitage Elders

O Lord grant that I may meet all that this coming day brings to me with spiritual tranquility. Grant that I may fully surrender myself to Thy Holy Will. At every hour of this day direct and support me in all things. Whatever news may reach me in the course of this day, teach me to accept it with a calm soul and with the firm conviction that all is subject to Thy Holy Will.

Guide my thoughts and feelings in all my words and actions. In all unexpected occurrences let me not forget that all is sent down from Thee. Grant me to deal in a straightforward and wise manner with every member of my family, neither embarrassing nor saddening anyone.

Lord, grant me strength to endure the fatigue of the coming day, and all the events that will take place during it. Guide my will and teach me to pray, to believe, to hope, to be patient, to forgive and to love.

+Amen+

+ Glory to God for All Things +

Holy Elders of Optina Monastery

Lights of the Orthodox Faith, unshaken pillars of monasticism,

Consolers of the Russian land, O holy elders of Optina,

Who have acquired love for Christ and have laid down your lives for your children…

The Holy Optina Elders gave spiritual guidance and care to all Russia for more than a century, and continue to instruct their descendants, and continue to pray for them. Let us hold ourselves close to their instructions and teachings as to living and healing water.