Orthodox Prayer · Hesychast
The Jesus Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God,
have mercy on me, a sinner.
Deeper reading
Read more about this prayer.
Why Orthodox Christians Fast: The Deep Theology Behind Abstinence
Fasting is one of the oldest disciplines in Orthodox Christianity - but why do we do it? Discover the patristic, scriptural, and spiritual reasons fasting transforms the soul and draws us into union with God.
Truth, Masks, and Communion: An Orthodox Christian Vision
Why does authentic love require truth-telling? Explore the Orthodox Christian understanding of personhood, confession, and the divine Word as the ultimate unmasking of God's love for humanity.
Justice, Mercy, and Humility: An Orthodox Christian Vision
Micah 6:8 calls every believer to justice, mercy, and humility before God. Discover how the Orthodox Church's theology, liturgy, and Fathers illuminate this prophetic command for faithful living today.
Explore this topic cluster
Prayer & Spiritual Life
Daily rhythms, the Jesus Prayer, and the inner life of Orthodox ascetic tradition.
Pillar page
Orthodox Prayers & DevotionsRelated in this cluster
- TheosisTopicTheosis (deification) is the Orthodox Christian understanding of salvation - the process by which a human person participates in the divine nature and is united with God. St. Athanasius expressed it: 'God became man so that man might become god.'
- Jesus PrayerTopicThe Jesus Prayer is a short, ancient prayer central to Orthodox spirituality: 'Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' It is rooted in the hesychast tradition and practiced as a means of unceasing prayer in the spirit of 1 Thessalonians 5:17.
- MonasticismTopicOrthodox monasticism is the way of life in which men and women leave the world to devote themselves entirely to God through prayer, fasting, and ascetic struggle. Monastics are considered the vanguard of the Church, interceding for the whole world.
- The Best iOS Apps for Orthodox Christians (2026)ArticleEight iPhone apps worth installing for Orthodox Christian life, from daily saints, readings, and fasting guidance to the Orthodox Study Bible, with honest notes on price and calendar.
- The Best Android Apps for Orthodox Christians (2026)ArticleEight Android apps for Orthodox Christians, checked on Google Play: daily saints, readings, and fasts, the Orthodox Study Bible, free official apps, and Old Calendar options.
- What Is an Orthodox Prayer Rule, and How Do You Start One?ArticleA prayer rule is a small set of fixed daily prayers received from your priest — what goes in one, and what to do when you miss.
Supporting pillars