understood if it is done, else, a person will consider the prayer to be too complicated, or
worse, an example of Á-°vain repetitionÁ-?, which the scripture forbids. He who has ears to
hear, and mouth to speak, arms to make the sign of the cross, and knees to bend, let him
understand!
The prayer of St Ephrem is said two different ways in church. The best way to say it at
home is the Á-°longerÁ-? way, twice a day, in morning and evening prayers. If a person only
prayers in the morning, than once. If both times, then twice. If a person is not organized
or motivated enough to say formal morning of evening prayers, at least this prayer can
be said. As my father used to say, Once or twice, but never Á-°nunceÁ-?!
This is the Á-°long wayÁ-?.
The prayer is said two times, one time in parts, and the last time in full. After each part,
or the entire prayer, a prostration is made. In between the two Á-°O God cleanse me a
sinnerÁ-? is said twelve times, with a bow each time. This is easy to remember after doing
it a few times. Two prayers, four prostrations, twelve bows (and 100 calories burned).
ambition, and idle talking give me not.Á-°
bestow upon me Thy servant.Á-°
my brother; for blessed art Thou unto the ages of ages. Amen.Á-°
Then, twelve repetitions of: