PRYR
Forgiveness / Pardon · 1st century

For Rulers and Governors

An ancient prayer from Clement of Rome for forgiveness, peace, forgiveness.

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Original prayer

For Rulers and Governors

To our rulers and governors on the earth—to them Thou, Lord, gavest the power of the kingdom by Thy glorious and ineffable might, to the end that we may know the glory and honour given to them by Thee and be subject to them, in nought resisting Thy will; to them, Lord, give health, peace, concord, stability, that they may exercise the authority given to them without offence. For Thou, O heavenly Lord and King eternal, givest to the sons of men glory and honour and power over the things that are on the earth; do Thou, Lord, direct their counsel according to that which is good and well-pleasing in Thy sight, that, devoutly in peace and meekness exercising the power given them by Thee, they may find Thee propitious. O Thou, who only hast power to do these things and more abundant good with us, we praise Thee through the High Priest and Guardian of our souls Jesus Christ, through whom be glory and majesty to Thee both now and from generation to generation and forevermore.

Amen.

Direct answer

What this prayer is for

This prayer is for forgiveness, peace, forgiveness. It gives the request old words: fewer tricks, more flame.

forgivenesspeaceForgivenessPardon
Use cases

Pray this when you’re asking for

  • forgiveness, peace, forgiveness
  • 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 forgiveness, peace, forgiveness. 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: forgiveness, peace, forgiveness.

For a friend

Lord, remember [Name]. Give them forgiveness, peace, forgiveness.

For a group

Lord, grant us together forgiveness, peace, forgiveness, and keep us faithful before Thee.

FAQ

Questions about this prayer

What is this prayer for?

It is for forgiveness, peace, forgiveness.

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.