Prayer of an Orphan

O Most merciful God: Thou preservest the substance of all creatures, by Thy most gracious providence every creature lives and flourishes. Thou dost not forsake even the smallest worm, but providest for it and feedest it. Thee I humbly beseech: withdraw not Thy aid from me.

Through Thy untraceable decree my father and mother departed from me, and I am bereft of their parental care and protection. But do Thou, O good Father, take me under Thy shelter and be my protector throughout my whole life. Console my afflicted heart by Thy care and strengthen me by patience in need.

Awaken in the hearts of my relatives and friends compassion and pity for me, that they give me a helping hand, instruct me in deeds pleasing to Thee, and lead me on the path of Thy commandments.

Avert all temptations from me, that I may never be tempted by worldly vanity and inclined toward wickedness. Destroy within me all evil intentions and desires, that I never forsake Thy goodness and love.

Plant love of work into my heart and be my relief in all things. Preserve me from affliction, misfortune, harm and suffering.

O Most Compassionate, loving Lord, bless my protectors and instructors, and all my benefactors. Grant my departed parents remission of all their sins; look upon them with pity and admit them to the eternal joys of paradise.

For Thine is the property of loving and saving us, O Lord, and we return Thee praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now, and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.