PRYR
Worship / Communion · 4th century

For the Holy Communion

An ancient prayer from Apostolic Constitutions for communion, worship, worship.

Original prayer

For the Holy Communion

We thank Thee, our Father, for that life which Thou hast made known to us by Jesus Thy Son, by whom madest all things, and takest care of the whole world; whom Thou hast sent to become man for our salvation; whom Thou hast permitted to suffer and to die; whom Thou hast raised up, and been pleased to glorify, and hast set Him down on Thy right hand; by whom Thou hast promised us the resurrection of the dead. Do Thou, O Lord Almighty, everlasting God, so gather together Thy Church from the ends of the earth into Thy kingdom, as this corn was once scattered, and is now become one loaf. We also, our Father, thank Thee for the precious blood of Jesus Christ, which was shed for us, and for His precious body, whereof we celebrate this representation, as Himself appointed us, “to show forth His death.” For through Him glory is to be given to Thee for ever.

Amen.

Direct answer

What this prayer is for

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

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Use cases

Pray this when you’re asking for

  • communion, worship, worship
  • 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 communion, worship, worship. 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: communion, worship, worship.

For a friend

Lord, remember [Name]. Give them communion, worship, worship.

For a group

Lord, grant us together communion, worship, worship, and keep us faithful before Thee.

FAQ

Questions about this prayer

What is this prayer for?

It is for communion, worship, worship.

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.