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
Akathist to Saint Apostle Matthias – a beautiful Orthodox hymn praising the holy apostle who completed the Twelve. Pray for his intercession in overcoming doubt, despair, and spiritual deception. Full text with kontakia and ikoi.
Read more →
Melchizedek was a king of Salem (later Jerusalem) and a priest of God Most High, mentioned in Genesis and in Hebrews. He blesses Abraham and is used to describe Jesus as a priest forever in his order.
Read more →
Discover the Akathist to Saint Monica of Hippo, Saint Augustine’s mother, in Orthodox tradition. Full text of this beautiful hymn celebrates her prayerful perseverance, family salvation, and enduring faith. Ideal for Orthodox devotion and intercession.
Read more →
Moses heard God’s voice, performed miracles by His grace, received His laws, and led His people to freedom. May Holy Moses intercede for us before the Throne of God!
Read more →
Explore the life, sacrifice, and spiritual legacy of Romanian martyrs Ion Moța and Vasile Marin through the powerful reflections of Horia Stamatu. This article presents a compelling account of their lives and includes a deeply poetic Akathist hymn that honors their witness, suffering, and faith. Blending history, theology, and devotional literature, it offers readers insight into Orthodox concepts of martyrdom, national identity, and the enduring call to spiritual courage.
Read more →
Read the complete Akathist Hymn to Saint Prophet Nathan – an inspiring Orthodox prayer honoring the bold prophet who confronted King David’s sin and led him to repentance (Psalm 50). Seek his intercession for wisdom, humility, and faithfulness in the Orthodox Church.
Read more →
Celebrate Saint Patrick’s miraculous life – from his enslavement and divine visions to his bold preaching, use of the three-leaf clover to teach the Holy Trinity, driving out paganism, founding monasteries across Celtic lands, and performing wonders as Ireland’s great apostle and miracle-worker.In the Orthodox tradition, this Akathist is recommended for spiritual protection, driving away evil spirits, enlightening the soul and mind, and boldly confessing Christ. Perfect for daily devotion, especially on his feast day, March 17.
Read more →
Discover the powerful Akathist to Saint Polycarp of Smyrna, the holy bishop, apostolic father, and fearless martyr who faithfully served Christ unto death. This English Orthodox hymn honors the disciple of Saint John the Theologian through prayers of steadfast faith, courage, repentance, and devotion rooted in the ancient Christian tradition. Ideal for Orthodox Christians seeking spiritual encouragement, patristic wisdom, and the intercessions of one of the early Church’s greatest saints.
Read more →
Discover the Akathist to Saint Samson the Righteous Judge of the House of Israel – a beautiful Orthodox Christian hymn of praise honoring the biblical judge Samson as a Nazirite of God, mighty deliverer, and hero of faith listed in Hebrews 11. This devotional text celebrates his miraculous strength, victory over enemies, repentance amid weakness, and profound typology as a prefigurement of Christ, who triumphs through sacrificial death and resurrection.
Featuring kontakia and ikos recounting Samson’s life—from angelic announcement and breaking bonds to pulling down the temple pillars—along with a moving prayer for intercession against sin, spiritual vigilance, and strength in frailty. Perfect for Orthodox faithful seeking reflections on Old Testament saints, the Sunday of the Forefathers, or deeper Christ-centered typology.
Read more →
Prophet Samuel anointed the first two kings of Israel. That is only part of his amazing legacy that this Akathist remembers.
Read more →