Glory to God For All Things: The Akathist of Thanksgiving

This beautiful poetic prayer was composed by Metropolitan Tryphon (Turkestanov) in 1929, at the height of the Soviet persecution. It is a hymn of gratitude that became his personal spiritual testament. Deeply personal in nature, he boldly uses the word "I" throughout its poetic narrative and turns to the Creator from the depths of his heart. For decades it has given a comforting voice to those in suffering.

This powerful text was found among the personal effects of Protopriest Gregory Petrov after his death in a Soviet prison camp in Siberia in 1940. (Because of this, the authorship is often incorrectly attributed to Father Gregory.) It was secretly copied and spread throughout Russia for decades, and became widely known and loved. It was first published abroad in 1970.

This "Akathist of Thanksgiving" has become popular worldwide for its powerful imagery of a deep gratitude that speaks to people in all situations. In North America, it has become customary to read this Akathist around the Thanksgiving holiday, as well as in small groups at anytime.

The title, Glory to God for All Things, is a quote from Saint John Chrysostom. These were the Saint's last words as he died in exile in the year 407. These words summarize the experience of millions of Orthodox Christians who in the 20th century suffered the greatest persecution against Christians in history.

Akathists are structured poetic prayers used in the Eastern Orthodox tradition. An Akathist can be read privately, with a group, or as a liturgical worship service. This book includes traditional instructions for reading the Akathist in each setting.

Book Details

• Dimensions: 4.25 x 6.5 inches
• Cover: Softcover
• Pages: 20
• Language: English