An Orthodox Akathist is a standing hymn of prayer and praise in Orthodox Christianity, meaning “not sitting” in Greek, and refers to devotional hymns dedicated to Christ, the Virgin Mary, or various saints. Many of these Orthodox Akathists are available in English for the first time, having recently translated by Maxim from the original language. Scroll down for all Orthodox Akathists in alphabetical order, or visit the categories below.
Akathists to Christ and the Holy Trinity
Akathists for Spiritual Struggles
Death and Remembering the Reposed
Deliverance from Demonic Oppression
Illness and Physical Infirmity
Intercessors for Marriages, Children and Families
Akathists to Ascetics and Monastics
Akathists to Church Fathers and Confessors
Akathists to New Testament Saints
Akathists to Prophets and Old Testament Saints
Discover the Akathist Hymn to Blessed Gerontios Fool-for-Christ (1934–2018), a powerful Orthodox prayer honoring the Romanian saint who embraced holy folly under communist persecution. Guided by the Theotokos to take up the cross of the fool-for-Christ, he endured imprisonment, torture, psychiatric wards, and humiliation while concealing profound asceticism, miracles, healings, and spiritual foresight beneath apparent madness.
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Discover the beautiful Akathist to Saint Gregory of Nyssa — brother of Saint Basil the Great, renowned theologian of the Holy Trinity, and fierce defender of Orthodoxy against Arianism and other heresies. This full Orthodox prayer honors his holy family, ascetic life, profound Trinitarian theology, and role as enlightener of Cappadocia. Seek his powerful intercession for salvation, healing, and unity in the Church through this reverent hymn of praise.
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Discover the full Akathist to Saint Gregory the Theologian — profound praises to the great Cappadocian Father, defender of the Holy Trinity, destroyer of heresies, and Mouth of God. Read this beautiful Orthodox hymn of devotion and intercession.
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Discover the profound Akathist of the Heavenly Father, a beautiful Orthodox Christian hymn of praise and supplication to God the Father, composed by Saint Nil Dorobanțu, the revered Romanian confessor and fool-for-Christ who endured persecution under communism. Perfect for personal prayer, spiritual reflection, and deepening devotion to the Holy Trinity.
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Discover the profound Akathist Hymn of the Descent of the Holy Spirit on Orthodox Reflections—a deeply contemplative Orthodox Christian prayer celebrating the life-giving presence of the Holy Spirit in creation and the human soul. This beautifully translated akathist invites believers into repentance, inner renewal, and divine communion through poetic praise, “Alleluia” refrains, and rich theological imagery rooted in the Orthodox tradition. Ideal for personal devotion, prayer life, and spiritual reflection on Pentecost and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit.
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Resources to pray for the souls of the reposed, as well as prayers for our own perseverance in the faith, a good death, and final repentance.
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Christians believe in One God, eternally existing in Three Divine Persons. How often, however, do we pray to the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Giver of Life?
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Discover the powerful English Akathist to Saint Ignatius of Antioch, one of the earliest Church Fathers and a fearless witness to Christ. This Orthodox hymn honors the holy martyr’s unwavering faith, apostolic teachings, and journey toward martyrdom, inspiring believers to embrace courage, humility, and devotion to the True Faith. Read and pray this moving Akathist from Orthodox Reflections to deepen your connection with the ancient Orthodox Christian tradition.
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Discover the English translation of the Romanian Akathist to Saint Ignatius of Antioch, the holy God-Bearer, apostolic father, and fearless martyr of the early Church. This Orthodox Christian hymn honors the disciple of Saint John the Theologian through profound prayers of steadfast faith, sacrificial love, repentance, and devotion to Christ. Ideal for personal prayer, Orthodox study, and spiritual reflection on one of Christianity’s greatest ancient saints and defenders of the true faith.
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Read the complete Akathist Hymn to Saint Isaac the Syrian (January 28 feast) – a moving Orthodox prayer composed in Romania, honoring the great ascetic’s wisdom on God’s infinite mercy, humility, and love for all creation.
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