This prayer, constantly repeated throughout the services, is the simplest and purest expression of repentance in all its dimensions; desire for purification, desire for improvement, desire for a real change in relations with other people.The Lenten rules of the Orthodox Church pay great attention to prostrations: through them the body participates in the effort of "breaking down" our pride and self-satisfaction.

On weekdays of Lent, the Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian is read twice at the end of each service: first, with a prostration after each of its petitions, then with one final prostration.

"O Lord and Master of my life, give me not the spirit of indolence, despair, ambition and vain speaking ."

Prostration

"But rather the spirit of chastity, humble mindedness, patience and love do Thou give unto me, Thy servant."

Prostration

"Yea, O Lord and King, let me see my own faults, and let me not judge my brother; for thou art blessed to ages of ages. Amen."

Prostration

Then all bow twelve times, saying "O God cleanse me, a sinner."

And the whole prayer is read again, with one prostration at the end.