The Church ascribes exceptional significance to the Prayer of Jesus Christ: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy upon me the sinner. Those in monastic orders must say this prayer continuously, and those living in the lay world are advised to use it to combat any bad inclination of the soul and to say it whenever they are engaged in serious responsibility. The prayer can be said in abbreviated forms, the briefest of which is: Lord have mercy. Its essential meaning and its use have been treated extensively in spiritual literature that every orthodox Christian should consider and learn to some degree.
We must read the Scriptures. The Gospel readings are part of Divine Service, and call for special attention. However, one must nourish one's soul with the Word of God at home as well, particularly so church services are hard to get to. The sermon of the officiating priest and the writings of the Fathers of the Church are aides to help Christians understand the Word of God, whether it is in church or at home.
Holy Writ reveals the true Christian life, while the Fathers of the Church interpret this life and show us how to live it in given circumstances. It is useful to combine religious readings with prayer.
Archpriest Victor Potapov
July 1986