PRYR
Light / Guidance · 3rd century

For Illumination

An ancient prayer from Early Church for guidance, light, holy spirit.

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Original prayer

For Illumination

Shine into our hearts, O loving Master, by the pure light of the knowledge of Thyself, and open the eyes of our mind to the contemplation of Thy teaching, and put into us the fear of Thy blessed commandments; that trampling down all that is worldly, we may follow a spiritual life, thinking and doing all things according to Thy good pleasure. For Thou art our sanctification, and our illumination, and to Thee we render glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen. —Eastern Church Liturgy.

Chapter IV FOURTH CENTURY PRAYERS

Amen.

Direct answer

What this prayer is for

This prayer is for guidance, light, holy spirit. It gives the request old words: fewer tricks, more flame.

guidancelightHoly SpiritLightGuidance
Use cases

Pray this when you’re asking for

  • guidance, light, holy spirit
  • mercy that is stronger than your mood
  • faithfulness when your own words are thin
  • God’s help for someone you are carrying in prayer
Short version

A shorter way to pray it

Lord, hear this ancient prayer for guidance, light, holy spirit. Give mercy, strength, and a heart made faithful before Thee. Amen.

Meaning

What this prayer means

This prayer comes from the ancient church’s habit of asking directly: for mercy, for holiness, for protection, for light. It does not perform spirituality. It reaches for God.

Use it as written, or let it become a frame for the person and need in front of you.

Personalize it

Pray it for yourself or someone else

For myself

Lord, hear this prayer in me: guidance, light, holy spirit.

For a friend

Lord, remember [Name]. Give them guidance, light, holy spirit.

For a group

Lord, grant us together guidance, light, holy spirit, and keep us faithful before Thee.

FAQ

Questions about this prayer

What is this prayer for?

It is for guidance, light, holy spirit.

Where does it come from?

It appears in Prayers of the Early Church, edited by J. Manning Potts, available through Project Gutenberg.

Can I pray this for someone else?

Yes. Change the pronouns or add a name, while keeping the heart of the prayer intact.