Dear Brothers and Sisters,
When I was MUCH younger, a priest friend of mine shared with me the Prayer of the Optina Elders. This beautiful prayer comes from the Optina Monastery in Russia, about 80 miles from Moscow. Before the Soviet Revolution, it was one of the spiritual centers of the country. Sadly, it was closed by the Soviets and the monks exiled, imprisoned or otherwise dispersed. After the end of the Soviet Union, it was one of the first monasteries to be returned to the church. The ancient monastery specialized in publishing books on the tradition of Desert spirituality.
I just loved the prayer and said it every morning. I still do. It is simple, humble and all- inclusive. And reminds me of the part I might have in creating distress for other people. Of course, I learned it in Russian. But here it is for you. The last line is such a treasure!
A Modern English version:
THE PRAYER OF THE OPTINA ELDERS
O Lord, give me strength to face with serenity everything that this day will bring. Grant me to entrust myself fully to Your holy will. Every hour of this day teach me and support me. Whatever news I may receive during the day, teach me to accept it with peace of mind and with firm conviction that everything is according to Your
holy will.
In all my words and actions guide my thoughts and feelings. In all unexpected events, do not let me forget that everything is sent by You.
Teach me to deal sincerely and wisely with every member of my family, bringing confusion or sorrow to none.
O Lord, give me strength to bear the weariness of the coming day and all the events of this day. Guide my will and teach me to pray, to believe, to hope, to endure, to forgive and to love. Amen.
Prayers ascending for all,
Mo. Laura
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COMING UP!
- August 5-9: Ellie Escher Summer Music Camp
- August 11: Collection for Emmaus Food Bank and Animal Food Bank
- August 25-31: Mo. Laura vacation week
- September 7, 4:00: Picnic Pot Luck
- September 15: Gift card orders due
- November 15: 7:00pm Poor Man’s Gambit Concert
- November 17: ST. MARGARET’S DAY!
- Wednesdays, noonday prayer via zoom at 12:00