The Order of Preparation for Holy Communion — a fundamental liturgical prayer rule of the Orthodox Church recited before approaching the Holy Mysteries of Christ’s Body and Precious Blood. It comprises penitential psalms, troparia, and profound prayers composed by Saint Basil the Great and Saint John Chrysostom.
Initial Prayers and Psalm 22 (23)
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Prayer of Saint John Chrysostom Before the Chalice
I believe, O Lord, and I confess that Thou art truly the Christ, the Son of the Living God, Who didst come into the world to save sinners, of whom I am first.
Of Thy Mystical Supper, O Son of God, receive me today as a communicant; for I will not speak of Thy Mystery to Thine enemies, neither like Judas will I give Thee a kiss, but like the thief will I confess Thee: Remember me, O Lord, in Thy Kingdom.
May the communion of Thy Holy Mysteries be neither to my judgment, nor to my condemnation, O Lord, but to the healing of soul and body. Amen.
📄 Download Printable PDF Prayer Book
You can download this dedicated Orthodox prayer rule in printable PDF format:
📱 Mobile App: «Pray: Jesus Prayer & Orthodox Prayer Book»
Prepare for the Holy Mysteries of Confession and Communion: read the full liturgical order of preparation in the Pray app.
- Digital Prayer Rope (Chotki): Haptic feedback prayer counter with heart attention guide.
- Breath Synchronization: In accordance with the holy hesychastic tradition.
- Complete Offline Prayer Book: Liturgical prayers and readings without internet.
- Daily Orthodox Calendar: Saints, Troparia, and Epistle & Gospel readings.
The mobile app prayer rope feature is incredible for cultivating the Jesus Prayer throughout a busy day.
Clear, traditional translation according to the Church’s ancient liturgical tradition. Highly recommended!