DELIBERATED at a meeting of the Council of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox
Church Outside of Russia of April 30/May 13, 2008: On the revision and
adoption of the Prayer for the Salvation of Russia.
DECREED: To adopt the text proposed by Archbishop Mark, and to read it
during Divine Liturgy on the Ascension of the Lord; and, as desired, on
the
feast day of All Russian Saints; the feast days of St Vladimir, St Olga
and
especially-venerated Russian saints. To change the name of the prayer to
the
Prayer for the Well-being of the Russian Orthodox Church.
-----------------------------------------------------
Here is the text of this prayer. Note especially the petition in the
middle
of it:
"O Lord Jesus Christ our God, accept from us, Thine unworthy servants,
this
fervent supplication, and, having forgiven us all our sins, remember all
our
enemies that hate and wrong us, and render not unto them according to
their
deeds, but according to Thy great mercy convert them: the unbelieving to
true faith and piety, and the believing that they may turn away from evil
and do good. By Thine all-powerful might, mercifully deliver all of us and
Thy holy Church from every evil circumstance. Free the God-preserved
Russian
Land and its Orthodox people from all enemies both visible and invisible
and
restore the throne of Orthodox Tsars. Grant peace and tranquility, love
and
steadfastness, and swift reconciliation to Thy people, whom Thou hast
redeemed by Thy precious Blood. But unto them that have departed from Thee
and seek Thee not, be Thou manifest, that not one of them perish, but that
all of them be saved and come to the knowledge of Thy truth, that all in
harmonious oneness of mind and unceasing love may glorify Thy most holy
name, O patient-hearted Lord Who art quick to forgive, unto the ages of
ages. Amen."
|
