Foundational Prayer
The Trisagion and Opening Prayers
The Trisagion, Most Holy Trinity, and other opening prayers — these begin every prayer rule.
Opening Prayers
Note: These prayers open every morning and evening prayer rule in the Orthodox Church, as well as every longer prayer service. In Serbian Orthodox practice they are traditionally read in Church Slavonic; the English below follows the standard Orthodox translation.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Most Holy Trinity, have mercy on us; O Lord, cleanse us of our sins; O Master, pardon our iniquities; O Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for Thy name’s sake.
Lord, have mercy (three times).
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
The Trisagion
Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us (three times).
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
O Most Holy Trinity, have mercy on us. O Lord, cleanse us of our sins; O Master, pardon our iniquities; O Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for Thy name’s sake.
Lord, have mercy (three times).
Glory… now and ever…
Our Father, who art in heaven… (etc.)
These prayers are read at the beginning of the morning and evening prayer rule, and before every longer prayer.