March 23, 2004

Elder Paisios the New of Mount Athos: On Prayer

Variety in vigil is very helpful. When one is alone, he may first do full prostrations, then small ones, and then say the Jesus Prayer sitting down or kneeling, and repeat this sequence depending on the time he has to offer. This method is every helpful for it creates spiritual liveliness and drives away the weariness of inaction through interspersed spiritual movements, prostrations. Moreover, it drives away sleepiness and brings spiritual lucidity during prayer.

--The Orthodox Word [2003], no. 229, p. 83

Posted by Clifton at March 23, 2004 05:30 AM | TrackBack