Orthodox Christianity: Why We Pray to the Saints

Ever wondered why Orthodox Christians often turn to the saints in prayer? It’s a practice steeped in history and rich with meaning. I’m diving into the reasons behind this tradition, revealing why it’s more than just asking for favors.

Prayer to the saints is a profound expression of the communal spirit that defines Orthodox Christianity. I’ll explore how it reflects a belief in the interconnectedness of the Church, both on earth and in heaven. Stay tuned to uncover the depth of this spiritual practice.

The Role of Saints in Orthodox Christianity

In the life of an Orthodox Christian, saints play a pivotal role that extends far beyond mere admiration of their holy lives. Intercessors and examples, saints are spiritual beacons that guide believers closer to God. Through their struggles and triumphs, I find tangible expressions of faith that are both inspiring and instructive.

Intercession is Key. Orthodox Christians believe that the saints, living in the presence of God, have the ability to intercede on our behalf. Their closeness to God empowers them to act as intermediaries, offering prayers and requests that enhance my own spiritual journey. This belief is grounded in the Scriptural understanding that God permits and responds to such intercession.

Living Icons of Christ. Each saint embodies the virtues of Jesus Christ, shining forth as a living icon. They bear witness to a life transformed by God’s grace, encouraging me to explore the depths of my own faith.

• Saints as Teachers. The lives of the saints provide invaluable lessons on how to deal with life’s challenges. They have faced myriad trials, yet emerged with their faith not only intact but fortified. Through their experiences, I learn resilience, perseverance, and unwavering trust in God.
• Patronage and Protection. Many saints are regarded as patrons of various causes, professions, and countries. Turning to a specific saint who encapsulates my current need or situation fosters a sense of personalized spiritual support. My patron saint isn’t just a historical figure; they’re a personal guardian watching over me.

Saints are more than historical figures; they are forever present in the life of the Orthodox Church. Participating in the veneration of saints isn’t about idol worship; it’s about honoring them as God’s servants and seeking their support in my daily spiritual walk. Through them, I am constantly reminded of God’s promise and the potential to grow holistically in my faith.

The Communal Spirit of Orthodox Christianity

Orthodox Christianity deeply values community. When I pray to the saints, it’s a reflection of the collective spirit that permeates my faith. I’m not just seeking personal solace; I’m actively engaging with a wider spiritual family.

In Orthodox tradition, the Church isn’t just an institution; it’s a living organism, united in Christ. This means every member, both living and departed, is an integral part of the body. That’s why, when addressing the saints in prayer, the interaction isn’t viewed as a dialogue with the distant past. Instead, it’s a current, lively exchange with those still present in the Church, though they’re in heaven.

This dynamic is beautifully illustrated during the Divine Liturgy, where I join my voice with those of the saints. Collectively, we worship God as a single body. This unity transcends time and space, painting a vivid picture of the Church triumphant — the saints in heaven — and the Church militant — us here on Earth, striving for holiness.

The idea of communion of saints suggests a strong support system. I’m never alone in my journey. When I pray to the saints, I’m essentially asking for their advice and backup. They’re guiding me through their lived experiences, especially those who faced similar struggles or bore comparable responsibilities.

Take, for example, the patron saints. People often choose a saint who shares a personal connection, like a name day or profession. This patronage forges a personal bond that strengthens the conviction of being part of a vast network of believers. Just as a patron saint may protect a particular group or nation, on a more personal level, their intercessory prayers provide spiritual protection and guidance.

• United with the saints
• Engaged in divine liturgy as a community
• Supported by the communion of saints
• Protected by patron saints

Orthodox Christianity isn’t a solo endeavor; it’s a family affair where prayer to the saints enhances our spiritual connectivity. Each saint’s story adds another layer to the richness of the Orthodox faith, and their enduring presence reminds us that the journey toward God is shared with a heavenly host, ever ready to help.

The Interconnectedness of the Church on Earth and in Heaven

In the vibrant tapestry of Orthodox Christianity, the church isn’t merely a collection of individuals engaged in solitary spiritual quests. It’s a single living organism, connecting all members, both on earth and in heaven. This belief in unity defines the powerful essence of our faith, fostering a profound kinship that bridges the celestial and the terrestrial.

When I join in prayer with fellow believers, I’m reminded that this isn’t an isolated act. Rather, it’s akin to entering a grand, ongoing conversation that includes saints and angels. The saints, those holy individuals who’ve attained heavenly glory, aren’t simply figures frozen in time; they remain active participants in the life of the Church. This dynamic interaction is rooted in the doctrine of the communion of saints, a core principle of Orthodox theology.

Tradition holds that this communion isn’t obstructed by death. Saints continue to care for us, offering intercession and companionship. This is why many Orthodox Christians feel a personal bond with their patron saints and invoke their assistance in times of need. The patron saint becomes an advocate, a spiritual guide who walks with us throughout our lives, echoing the ongoing support system Heaven provides.

The Church on earth, known as the Church Militant, and the celestial Church, referred to as the Church Triumphant, are two expressions of the same reality. This principle underscores the mystical unity the Orthodox faith celebrates — a unity that pervades the here and now, transcending time and space. I don’t just believe in the presence of saints — I rely on their enduring connection to the Church, providing inspiration and encouragement from a realm that’s invisibly woven into our own.

In practice, prayer to the saints mirrors our understanding of spiritual kinship. It’s a way of recognizing that we are indeed part of a much larger family, a spiritual communion that supports and uplifts its members continually. Saints are not spiritual celebrities; they’re relatives in faith, exemplars of virtue, and joint sojourners in our quest for divine union. Their lives are testaments of faith, beckoning us to push forward, shaping our spirituality with their heavenly insights.

Understanding Prayer to the Saints

When I engage in prayer to the saints, it’s not about conjuring distant, mythical beings. Instead, I’m reaching out to spiritual family members who are keenly invested in my well-being. Their role is sometimes misunderstood. It’s important to clarify: we do not worship saints; we venerate them. This distinction is pivotal because worship is due only to God, while veneration is a form of deep respect.

These prayers are a plea for saintly intercession. Just as I might ask a friend to pray for me, I ask the saints to do the same. They stand before God and offer prayers on our behalf, their voices amplifying our own. Their proximity to the Divine doesn’t diminish the power of direct prayer to God, but supplements it.

Orthodox Christianity holds that saints have a unique closeness to God. They have finished the race, they’ve kept the faith, and now they reside in God’s presence. This is why their intercessory role is so valued. In times of personal trials, turning to a patron saint who faced similar struggles is encouraging. It provides not just comfort but also a model of faith to emulate.

• The Virgin Mary, known as the Theotokos, is especially revered. Her unyielding faith and pivotal role in Christian history make her intercessions particularly profound.
• St. Nicholas, the patron of sailors and the wrongly accused, is another popular figure.
• St. George, the dragon slayer, stands as a symbol of valor against adversity.

Whether it’s these or countless other saints, praying to them is an acknowledgment of their spiritual achievements and an appeal to their experience of eternal life. Their willingness to intercede for us is borne of love, reflecting the eternal communion that binds all believers — past, present, and future — into one divine family.

The Depth of the Spiritual Practice

In delving into prayer to the saints, it’s essential to recognize the profound spiritual discipline it entails. I’ve discovered that this practice isn’t merely a routine; it’s an intimate exchange between the believer and those who have transcended earthly life. For Orthodox Christians, this dialogue with the saints provides a unique pathway for spiritual growth and support.

Engaging in intercessory prayer offers several spiritual benefits:

• A sense of community with those who have walked the path of faith before us.
• Encouragement to persevere in spiritual development.
• A reminder of the church’s teaching that salvation is a communal reality, not just an individual pursuit.

When I seek the intercession of saints like the Virgin Mary or St. Nicholas, I’m tapping into a spiritual network that’s rich with wisdom and grace. It’s about learning from their examples and striving to embody the virtues they lived out. Moreover, the saints continue to participate in the life of the church by interceding before God on our behalf. Their closeness to God underscores their effectiveness as intermediaries.

Orthodox teaching highlights that this practice isn’t idolatry. The saints are not deities, but rather exemplars of faith and righteousness who can petition God in ways that resonate with His will. By praying to the saints, I’m not placing them above God; instead, I’m recognizing their role in the divine economy of salvation.

This spiritual practice is ingrained in Orthodox Christian life, enriching the spiritual journey and fostering a stronger connection to the divine. Through the intercessions of the saints, believers experience the comfort and guidance of those who are deeply united with Christ. This ongoing conversation between heaven and earth is a testament to the vibrancy and depth of Orthodox spirituality.

Conclusion

Praying to the saints in Orthodox Christianity isn’t just a tradition; it’s a powerful facet of my spiritual life. It strengthens my connection to the divine and reinforces the sense of community that’s so vital to my faith. Through the intercessions of the saints, I find not only comfort and guidance but also inspiration to live a life that mirrors their righteousness. They’re not just historical figures; they’re active participants in my journey towards salvation, advocating on my behalf in ways that resonate with God’s will. It’s a practice that continues to enrich my spiritual walk, reminding me that I’m part of a larger, divine tapestry that’s both personal and communal.

The Orthodox Calendar Company writes a yearly Saints & Fasting Calendar for Orthodox Christians, Orthodox gifts and accessories, and books on teachings of the Saints. Over the past 29 years they’ve been in homes, churches and monastery bookstores across the world.