I often forget how important the Eucharist is to the Church and, consequently, to the human soul. It is the means of participating the Divine as Christ mysteriously dwells among and with us; and this participation is indeed because of his grace. So today and tomorrow I will post two prayers of St. John Damascene. Enjoy and be blessed by the mysteries of God:
First Prayer of St. John Damascene
Sovereign Lord Jesus Christ our God, Who alone hast authority to forgive men their sins, overlook in Thy goodness and love for men all my offences whether committed with knowledge or in ignorance, and make me worthy to receive without condemnation Thy divine, glorious, spotless, and life-giving Mysteries, not for punishment, nor for an increase of sins, but for purification and sanctification and as a pledge of the life and kingdom to come, as a protection and help, and for the destruction of enemies, and for the blotting out of my many transgressions. For Thou art a God of mercy and compassion and love for men, and to Thee we send up the glory, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.
