U.S. Department of 

Homeland Security

United States 

Coast Guard

U.S. COAST GUARD LAY LEADER HANDBOOK

U.S. Coast Guard 

Creation Date: October 2019

Chaplain of the Coast Guard

2703 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE

Washington, DC 20593-7000

(202) 372-4435

QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS HANDBOOK SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO 

THE CHAPLAIN OF THE COAST GUARD OFFICE
References

Source Materials

This handbook contains original material developed at the Coast Guard Training Center

Yorktown, Virginia, and excerpts from the following publications: 

COMDTINST 1730.4 (series) Religious Ministries within the Coast Guard 

MILPERSMAN 1730-010 Use of Lay Leaders in Religious Services

SECNAVINST 1730.8 (series) Accommodation of Religious Practices

RELIGIOUS MINISTRY LAY LEADER NTRP 1-05.1 (Edition March 2010)

Lay Leader Guide, Quick Series Publishing, Inc, #366

A Guide for Jewish Lay Leaders in the Armed Forces of the United States

Archdiocese of the Military Services, USA, Policies for Lay Leaders and Extraordinary 

Ministers of Holy Communion

Lay Reader Handbook U.S. Coast Guard

Credits

Published by The Chaplain of the Coast Guard (CG-00A), CAPT Thomas Walcott, CHC, USN

Project Manager: CAPT John Swanson, CHC, USN

Editors: CDR Cynthia L. G. Kane, CHC, USN; LCDR Larry Brant, CHC, USN; LT Jonathan W. 

Alexander, CHC, USN; 

Special thanks to following contributors:

CDR Shaun Brown, CHC, USN

LCDR David Alexander, CHC, USN

LCDR Aaron Kleinman, CHC, USN

LCDR John Tarr, CHC, USN

LT Ken Espinoza, CHC, USN

LT Haneef Mubarak, CHC, USN

LT Aroon Seeda, CHC, USNR

Mr. Sam Korson, USCG Jewish Lay Leader
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section One: The Purpose of a Lay Leader Handbook

Purpose 1-1

Publisher 1-1

Chaplain Corps Vision Statement 1-1

Chaplain Corps Capabilities 1-1

Section Two: The Role of a Lay Leader

Overview 2-1

Limits of Responsibility 2-1

Command Relationships 2-1

Lay Leader Defined 2-2

Lay Leader Appointment 2-2

Success Factors 2-2

Qualifications 2-4

Interaction with Chaplains 2-4

Lay Leader Duties 2-5

Sensitive Personal Problems 2-5

Times for Services 2-6

Location of Services 2-6

Flying the Church or Jewish Pennant 2-6

Religious Offering 2-6

Protestant Services 2-7

Roman Catholic Services 2-7

Eastern Orthodox Services 2-7

Jewish Services 2-7

Islamic Services 2-8

Buddhist Services 2-8

Preparing for the Lay Service 2-8

Preparing for the Clergy Led Service and Visiting Chaplains 2-9

Prayers 2-9

Sacred Text Studies 2-10

Transportation While in Port 2-10

Section Three: Guide for Catholic Lay Leaders

Overview 3-1

Considerations 3-3

Guide to a Successful Service 3-3

Lay Leader “Do Nots” 3-3

Which Service to Use 3-4

Outline for a Service 3-4

General Intercessions 3-5

Psalm Prayers of Preparation 3-5
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Psalm Prayers of Thanksgiving3-5

Meditations3-6

The Rosary3-7

Morning Offering3-8

Our Father3-8

Hail Mary3-8

Prayer of Praise3-8

Act of Contrition3-8

Prayer for Peace3-8

Prayer for the Holy Spirit3-9

Prayer for Vocations3-9

Apostles’ Creed3-9

Act of Faith3-9

Act of Hope3-9

Prayer of St. Francis3-10

Section Four: Guide for Protestant Lay Leaders

Overview4-1

What is Worship4-1

Common Elements of a Worship Service4-1

Sample Protestant Order of Service4-2

Preparing a Christian Devotional Message4-2

Music, Prayers, and Scripture in Worship4-3

Baptisms and Communion4-4

Seasons of the Christian Year4-4

Common Christian Terms4-6

Section Five: Guide for Eastern Orthodox Lay Leaders

Introductory Caution and Overview5-1

Establishing the “Prayer Corner”5-1

Orthodox Prayers for Various Occasions5-1

Prayers Upon Rising from Sleep5-1

Morning Prayers5-3

Daily Table Prayers5-7

Evening Prayers (Little Compline)5-9

Reader’s Service of the Hours and Typika5-15

Section Six: Guide for Jewish Lay Leaders

Assignment as a Jewish Lay Leader6-1

Typical Responsibilities6-1

Command Relationships6-1

Major Denominations6-2
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Important Texts of Worship6-2

Jewish Time6-3

Seasons/Months/Holy Days6-3

Jewish Holy Days and Festivals6-4

Basic Parts of a Service6-6

Order for a Sabbath Evening Service6-7

Observance of the Sabbath and the Festival (Yom Tov)6-8

Time for Sabbath Worship6-8

Setup6-8

Ordering Jewish Supplies6-9

Quantities6-9

Prayers for the Dying6-10

Section Seven: Guide for Islamic Lay Leaders Introduction

7-1

Islamic Lay Leader Basic Knowledge7-2

The Five Pillars of Islam7-4

The Six Articles of Faith7-7

Fundamentals of Tawhid (Islamic Prophetic Monotheism)7-9

Islamic History7-10

Fundamentals of Seerah7-10

Islamic Calendar7-12

Yaum Al-Jumu’ah (Friday Congregational Worship)7-23

Prerequisites and Conditions for Validity of Salat al-Jumu’ah7-25

Sequence of Worship for Salat al-Jumu’ah7-26

Duties of the Islamic Lay Leader7-27

Islamic Supplies7-28

Section Eight: Guide for Buddhist Lay Leaders

Overview8-1

Three Jewels/Triple Gem8-1

Theology – Major Teachings – Beliefs8-1

The Four Noble Truths (Cattari Ariya Saccani)8-1

The Eightfold Path – The End of Suffering8-1

The Three Basic Facts of Existences8-2

Schools of Buddhism, Sects, Denominations8-2

Holy Days and Festivals8-2

Weekly Buddhist Service8-3

Sources8-5

Vendors8-5

Publication8-5
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section Nine: Guides and Checklists

Overview 9-1

Outreach Advertisement 9-1

Assimilating Newcomers 9-2

Services in Port 9-2

Worship Service Checklist 9-3

Program Checklist 9-3

Religious Study Checklist 9-4

Publicity Checklist 9-5

Religious Study Ideas (Christian and Jewish) 9-6

Sacred Text Study Evaluation 9-9

Section Ten: Ministry Organizations

Catholic Resources 10-1

Jewish Resources 10-1

Jewish Support, Certification, and Education 10-2

Jewish Denominational Bodies 10-3

Jewish Resources for Study 10-3

Protestant Resources 10-3

Protestant Audio Message Ministries 10-4

Bible Correspondence for Credit 10-4

Protestant Film Ministries 10-5

Eastern Orthodox Resources 10-5

Islamic Resources 10-6

Buddhist Resources 10-6

Spiritual but Not Religious or No Religious Preference Resources 10-7

Section Eleven: Lay Leader Training Program

Standardized Learning Objectives 11-1

Lay Leader Personnel Qualification Standards 11-2

Standards of Conduct for Lay Leaders 11-8

Appendices

Appendix A: Lay Leader Appointment Procedures A-1

Appendix B: Lay Leader Information and Interview Form B-1

Appendix C: Religious Organization Interview Form and Letter Example C-1

Appendix D: Division Officer Memo Example D-1

Appendix E: Chaplain Memo Example E-1

Appendix F: Commanding Officer Appointment Memo Example F-1

Appendix G: Lay Leader Religious Ministry Report Format G-1
SECTION ONE:

THE PURPOSE OF A LAY LEADER HANDBOOK

Purpose

The purpose of this handbook is to provide guidance for members of the Coast Guard who 

volunteer and are appointed to assist in the development and administration of the Command 

Religious Program. Individual commands determine whether or not and to what extent unit 

religious programs are instituted. The procedures, definitions and policies outlined in this 

handbook are intended to be of assistance.

Publisher

Chaplain of the Coast Guard, CAPT Thomas Walcott

Chaplain Corps Vision Statement

"Mission-ready members and families of the Naval Service, strengthened and supported by 

professional religious ministry."

Chaplain Corps Capabilities

As members of the United States Navy Chaplain Corps we:

 PROVIDE: Providing professional religious ministry through worship services, religious 

education, weddings, funerals, and other religious rituals and rites.

 FACILITATE: Facilitating for the religious needs of service members from other religious 

traditions by identifying their needs and coordinating support from other chaplains, civilian 

clergy and lay leaders.

 CARE: Caring for service members and their families with dignity, respect and compassion, 

regardless of an individual’s beliefs, and making informed and professional referrals. 

Chaplains are available 24/7 with confidential counseling to ensure members and their 

families have the spiritual resilience to cope with the inevitable hardships of military life.

 ADVISE: Advising commanding officers on the accommodation of religious needs; on the 

moral, ethical, and spiritual well-being of those under their command; and on religious 

matters that effect the command’s mission.

1-1
2-1

SECTION TWO:

THE ROLE OF A LAY LEADER

Overview

Lay leaders are appointed by the command to conduct religious services in the absence of a U.S.

Navy chaplain. The lay leader who is faithful, devout, and sets a good moral example will be 

effective and helpful to the command and morale of the crew.

Limits of Responsibility

There are certain responsibilities that are not within the lay leader’s authority or responsibility to 

perform. Lay leaders are not “ordained clergy” as defined by the United States Coast Guard or 

any branch of the Armed Services. This means they will not administer sacraments/ordinances 

or perform religious acts reserved for military chaplains, as defined by faith group guidelines and 

US Coast Guard policy. Of course, there are exceptions. For example, a Roman Catholic lay 

leader aboard US Coast Guard cutters can perform baptism “in extremis.” Most lay leaders can 

offer prayers for the dying, according to the accepted form of the appropriate faith group. 

However, they cannot conduct the Service for a Burial at Sea, in the absence of a chaplain, as 

this is the responsibility of the Commanding Officer (CO). These limitations involve not only 

Coast Guard policy but also Canon or Church Law. Further, lay leaders can lead or facilitate the 

discussion of scripture, but they do not have the authority or the permission to preach. This role 

is the sole prerogative of ordained clergy – priest, minister, rabbi or imam – who are 

commissioned US Navy chaplains serving with the US Coast Guard. In summary, a lay leader is 

precluded from doing anything that presupposes ordination.

Command Relationships

The lay leader acts as a representative of the CO, facilitating religious worship when the service 

of an ordained chaplain or clergy is not available. Remember these things:

 No Coast Guardsman can constitute himself or herself as a religious lay leader. Appointment 

by the CO will be per Religious Ministries COMDTINST M1730.4 (series). See Appendix F 

for a Commanding Officer Appointment Memo Example.

 The lay leader should never schedule or reschedule an activity without the approval of the 

command.

 The use of spaces must be approved by the command, as to both location and time.

 Lay leaders carry out religious functions as a collateral duty. They do not have the authority 

to excuse themselves from their primary duty. However, since the Commanding Officer 

appoints Lay Leaders, it can be assumed that their chain of command will cooperate in 

making them available to conduct scheduled services.
2-2

 Lay leaders should keep a log of the number of services conducted and the attendance 

numbers, and be prepared to submit this record to a chaplain and/or to the command, if so 

required. See Appendix G for the Lay Leader Religious Ministry Report Format.

 The ultimate and absolute responsibility for what happens aboard a US Coast Guard ship 

rests with the Commanding Officer. Lay leaders must therefore guard against actions or 

statements that might bring discredit to the command. The services conducted must not be 

used as sounding boards to argue their own opinions on controversial subjects.

Lay Leader Defined

For purposes of this handbook, “lay leaders” in the general sense will refer to Protestant lay 

leaders, Eastern Orthodox lay leaders, Jewish lay leaders, Islamic lay leaders, Buddhist lay 

leaders, and Roman Catholic lay leaders. When required, the specific designation will be used as 

appropriate.

Lay Leader Appointment

A lay leader is a person formally appointed by a Commanding Officer to facilitate prayer and/or 

devotional services for an identified Department of Defense (DoD) faith group when a chaplain 

is unavailable for worship services. 

A Roman Catholic lay leader is a person who has been formally appointed by the Archdiocese 

for the Military Services to exercise, with the approval of the Commanding Officer, a unique 

privilege extended to the military to have custody of the Eucharist during a deployment only. 

This individual functions with command concurrence and only when a Roman Catholic priest 

cannot be obtained. See Guide for Roman Catholic Lay Leaders for a guide tailored to Roman 

Catholic Lay Leaders.

See Appendix A for Lay Leader Appointment Procedures.

Success Factors

Individuals desiring to serve as lay leaders should be considered for training and appointment. 

They may have feelings of being overwhelmed or hesitant to accept the position. Such feelings 

are normal, but with proper training and personal initiative, they will serve their shipmates well. 

Regardless of the individual lay leader or the state of the Command Religious Program, the 

following factors will help ensure success:

 Personal enthusiasm

 Respect for all Faiths
2-3

 Preparation

 Training

 Personal example

 Command support

 Involvement of others

 Chaplain support

Enthusiasm is contagious. While it is true to say that even the most highly motivated and 

enthusiastic lay leader will not be able to inspire every member of the command, it is also true 

that such enthusiasm cannot help but positively influence the overall esprit de corps of the 

command. A lack of enthusiasm will result in a lackluster and unattended program. Therefore, 

maintain your enthusiasm as a lay leader.

Lay leaders have an exciting subject of interest of vital importance to the crew. Surely, such a 

subject demands one’s best. A lay leader should think highly enough of the task of a leader of 

worship to spend time preparing for services, know what is going to happen in the service, and 

read the scripture or devotional guide ahead of time. Preparation is an important key to success.

Lay leaders should strive to live their faith. Religion has no more important example than when 

it is lived out in everyday life.

Lay leaders must remember that according to US Coast Guard Regulations, the ultimate 

responsibility for the religious and moral life of a cutter or unit rests with the Commanding 

Officer. However, lay leaders assist in this area and can enlist command aid and support of the 

crew. 

Ideally, the lay leader will involve others in the service. It is advisable to recruit an assistant lay 

leader to help with some of the mechanics of publicity, etc. One could recruit members of the 

crew to help to rig/set up for services, read scriptures, pray, or lead singing, etc. By delegating,

the lay leader is provided relief from some of the tasks and involves other members of the 

command. 

Remember that you assist the command in providing a religious program for persons of 

various backgrounds within your faith group. This is especially important for Protestants, in

view of the wide range of denominational backgrounds. Try to meet as broad an area of worship

needs as possible. Concentrate on major matters not minor ones.

Similarly, Jewish Lay Leaders need to remember that they may well come from a different 

religious background than their congregants. They should strive to meet the needs of their 

congregation while remaining true to their own tradition. This requires sensitivity, maturity, 

wisdom, and creativity.
2-4

Qualifications

Though there is no age, sex, rate, or rank standard it is highly desirable that the person being 

considered for appointment as a lay leader be an E-5 or higher. He/she must be a conscientious 

adherent who practices their religious tradition. Being an effective lay leader takes commitment, 

dedication, and faithfulness. The position of lay leader is an official collateral duty; therefore, it 

is highly recommended that the individual be on Active Duty. 

Mature conduct, ethical and moral behavior, and consistency in religious practices in formalized 

religion are necessary traits for the individual desiring to facilitate religious services. Definitions 

of what constitutes “religious practice” will differ from one religion to another. Therefore, the 

Commanding Officer should seek the advice of a chaplain prior to appointing a lay leader. 

A lay leader must maintain a sensible openness to all. They must be nonjudgmental in words or 

deeds toward the religious beliefs of others whose faith experience differs. Lay leaders must 

understand that it is inappropriate for the command or its associated lay leaders to make 

judgments or express opinions regarding the “rightness” of the religious beliefs of others. It is 

the responsibility of the Commanding Officer to ensure that all Coast Guardsmen are able to 

practice and experience their faith. The lay leader assists by virtue of their position.

Lay leaders should possess leadership qualities, skills of communication, and knowledge of 

diversity and desire to continually grow and improve.

There can be several appointed lay leaders in a command to meet particular faith group needs. 

Since the lay leader’s appointment in the Command Religious Program is an official collateral 

duty, it is expected that the command will make the lay leader available according to the unit’s 

operational tempo and schedule. A lay leader must be in good standing with his/her faith group.

Interaction with Chaplains

Chaplains are commissioned to provide for and facilitate the free exercise of religion in the Sea 

Services. 

Occasionally, chaplains may pay a pastoral visit to your command or unit. It is important to brief 

the chaplain on the current issues, the success stories, and ideas that might improve the spiritual 

care for the crew. Lay leaders should meet regularly with the chaplain who provides oversight 

and care of their unit. Since many ports have a chaplain, when in port the lay leader is highly 

encouraged to visit the chaplain and seek their advice and assistance.
2-5

Lay Leader Duties

Lay leaders cannot provide for the exercise of religion, but they can facilitate from a nonordained status. Cos may permit lay leaders to provide specified religious rites, sacraments, and 

ordinances to their co-religionists if their religious organization permits them to do so.

If an appropriate chaplain is available, a command-appointed lay leader will normally be tasked 

to:

 Facilitate the obtaining of a chaplain’s services.

 Recommend the necessary arrangements for the chaplain’s visit to the District Chaplain, 

or where there is no chaplain, to the command.

 If an appropriate chaplain is not available, the lay leader’s primary function as a 

facilitator is to coordinate, plan, and facilitate religious services.

 In the absence of a chaplain, duties of a lay leader can include:

o Conducting prayer services.

o Organizing and leading scripture studies.

o Arranging for transportation to and from places of worship when visiting ports of call.

o Upon request, saying a morning or evening prayer at sea.

Sensitive Personal Problems

Shipmates will occasionally come to lay leaders with personal problems. The lay leader must be 

extremely cautious in such situations and clearly communicate up front that they do not have 

confidentiality. If it is an internal issue or administrative problem, the person should be tactfully 

advised to handle the problem through the normal chain-of-command. All counseling cases 

should be referred to the chaplain responsible for coverage in the AOR or to another chaplain, as 

they are the recognized specialist by virtue of professional training and experience. The lay 

leader, as a member of the crew or unit, is uniquely situated to be available to his/her shipmates; 

therefore never give the “brush-off” to those desiring to talk about a problem. The lay leader 

helps best by listening to them and their problems and then advising or referring them to the 

appropriate resource person or services.
2-6

Time for Services

Not all members of religions gather for worship on Sunday. For some, other days are recognized 

either as Sabbath or as a special primary Day of Prayer. The emphasis on accommodation is 

especially important here.

It is appropriate to expect that a lay leader would fulfill their primary function by either obtaining 

the services of a chaplain or leading a lay service for their particular faith group on a weekly 

basis when deployed. Lay leaders should work with the Executive Officer (XO) and the 

Operations Officer to determine the most feasible times for services, realizing that operational 

requirements might not allow lay services to occur on traditional religious gathering times or 

days.

Along with a weekly religious service, the lay leader makes similar preparations for Holy Days, 

and, at times, holidays.

Location of Services

Whether at shore or underway, lay leaders need to remember many spaces can be utilized for 

conducting a service. Again, it is the command’s responsibility to provide the appropriate space 

required to support the religious practices of its personnel. Sensitivity to the rest and privacy of 

one’s fellow shipmates must be upheld. Thus, a reasonably quiet space separate from areas used 

by others, as well as a space removed from distracting noises, is essential. Cleanliness and 

orderliness of the space is important. When underway, if weather conditions permit outdoor 

space (topside) can be utilized. The same holds true for ashore units and commands, as well. 

Where special needs exist for individual faith groups, it is appropriate for the lay leader to ensure 

that these needs are understood before the spaces for religious services are chosen.

Flying of the Church Pennant or Jewish Pennant

The church or Jewish pennant is only flown aboard underway cutters when an ordained 

clergyperson or rabbi is conducting a worship service. When a chaplain is aboard for a worship 

service the pennant should be flown only while the service is being conducted. The Church or 

Jewish Pennant is placed over the national ensign and removed directly following the worship 

service. It is not flown during services conducted by a lay leader unless the CO so directs. 

Religious Offerings

Offerings will not be taken at lay-conducted services.
2-7

Protestant Services

The Protestant lay leader usually conducts a service by using one of the following approaches:

 Thematic

 Liturgical

A seasonal lectionary or a book of selected readings is recommended. “The Book of Worship for 

U.S. Armed Forces” contains useful samples, which may assist in training a lay leader. The 

chaplain may suggest other formats to provide variety.

Roman Catholic Services

The Roman Catholic lay leader should use the booklet given to them by the Catholic Priest at lay 

leader training. A “St. Joseph’s Sunday Missal” is all that is necessary to accompany the 

booklet.

Eastern Orthodox Services

An Eastern Orthodox lay leader should use the materials provided by his/her faith group 

chaplain. The appropriate and designated scriptures for seasons and Holy Days are contained in 

the desktop planning guide, or in the chaplain’s office.

Jewish Services

Jewish Lay Leaders need to remember that they may well come from a different religious 

background as their congregants. They should strive to meet the needs of their congregation 

while remaining true to their own tradition. This requires sensitivity, maturity, wisdom, and 

creativity. It is wise to seek counsel from a rabbi, preferably a Jewish chaplain, when seeking 

solutions. 

Jewish Lay Leaders should ensure familiarity with the service and the siddur (prayer book) to be 

used, as versions and page numbers vary widely. There are significant differences between 

weekday, Holy Day, and Shabbat services, which the lay leader should become familiar with. 

Other considerations should include: timeframe; what parts/how much should be in Hebrew and 

which in English; whether to lead a study; and whether there will be a Kiddush or Oneg after the 

service.
2-8

Islamic Services

An Islamic lay-led service usually requires prayer rug(s), prayer caps, prayer beads, and 

established quiet place and times (five times daily) for the offering of prayer. Other resources, 

guidance, and support are obtained through one’s local Mosque or Imam.

Buddhist Services

A Buddhist lay-led service usually requires 1) a central object of reverence, a Buddha statue; 2) 

an altar cloth; 3) food offerings; 4) candle offering; 5) flower offering; 6) incense offering; 7) 

meditation bell; and 8) a meditation cushion. Other resources, guidance, and support are 

obtained through the local temple or monastery.

Preparing for the Lay Service

Lay-led devotional services should last 30-45 minutes or as the cutter/unit schedule permits.

With the approval of the chain of command, the lay leader will:

 Work with the XO and/or Operations Officer to select an area free from excessive noise 

and traffic.

 Announce in the Plan of the Day (POD) the time and location of the lay-led devotional 

service. 

 Ensure sufficient time prior to the service for proper cleaning and rigging of the space. 

The lay leader is normally responsible for rigging for services.

 If needed, polish a cross/crucifix, candlesticks, Bible stand; clean/press altar linens; etc.

 Provide a backdrop for the altar (draperies, posters, flags) whenever possible to create an 

attractive background.

 If needed, install and test a sound system for reading and music prior to the service.

 Make provision to limit the use of the 1MC during the services.

 If services are in a heavy traffic area (like mess decks), post signs or ask the duty section 

personnel to service the area. On occasion, individuals sometimes forget the word just 

passed: “Maintain silence about the decks during religious services.” Also, when 

possible, select a space with a rear entrance to lessen disruption once service begins.

 If services are topside, keep the sun out of the eyes of the congregation, and pay attention 

to the direction of the wind (stack exhaust).
2-9

 Refer to the sample checklists in Section Nine: Guides and Checklists. 

Preparing for the Clergy Led Service and Visiting Chaplains

In the event a chaplain or civilian clergy comes aboard for services, remember that they are the 

Commanding Officer’s guest. Prior to the arrival give ample announcement and have 

arrangements completed for the visit. As preparation for the chaplain/civilian clergy and as a 

checklist for yourself, consider the following items:

 Inform the XO.

 Arrange for time and space for the service.

 Advertise.

 Alert duty section for rigging for service.

 Prepare for music.

 Set up altar.

 Have hymnals, Bibles, Missals, Siddurim (Jewish prayer books), TANAKHs or Chumashes 

(Jewish Bibles), or other appropriate items distributed.

 Request that the church or Jewish pennant be flown during services.

 When directed, meet the visiting chaplain/civilian clergy at the quarterdeck and advise 

them of your capacity as lay leader and the arrangements completed.

 Stand ready to assist as needed and/or requested.

Prayers

Prayers over the public address system aboard cutters at sea and deployed units are very 

meaningful. With command approval, it is good to have lay leaders of different faith groups

alternate in offering the prayers. All circuits should be cut in when practical.

A recommended time for morning prayers is just before pipe to breakfast. In the evening, it is 

tradition to offer a prayer prior to taps. Some Coast Guard vessels do not make pipes after a 

certain hour (for example, 2000), and so you might do an evening prayer just before yoke 

checks. The prayer should be brief (no more than 30-45 seconds). Write out the prayer and read 

it, inviting all members of the ship’s company to join in the prayer. The lay leader should speak 

slowly, clearly, and into the microphone. 
2-10

Keep the prayer general and inclusive enough to be helpful and appreciated by all. Lay leaders 

who cannot in good conscience offer such prayers should decline the invitation.

A good prayer book may be helpful. Selected readings from the Book of Psalms may also be 

used. Prayers can be introduced by arranging for the boatswain’s mate of the watch to announce:

“Stand by for the morning/evening prayer.” After a short pause you say, “Let us pray...”

For evening prayers, have a red lens flashlight handy to aid while reading in the pilothouse 

during darken ship.

Sacred Text Studies

The lay leader or an approved volunteer may lead sacred text studies. Permission must be 

granted from the XO before such a group is organized. Sacred text study sessions must not be 

allowed to become occasions for arguing one’s personal interpretation. Rather, all should 

endeavor to understand what the sacred text is saying. The appropriate faith group chaplain can 

assist in developing sacred text study groups and in selecting study material. Your local Chaplain 

can also provide resource lists specific to your denomination. See also Section Ten: Ministry 

Organizations.

Transportation to Services While in Port

Transportation may be arranged for personnel to attend services at a nearby place of worship. 

Transportation arrangements should be made through the Executive Officer or officer of the day. 

When visiting ports of call, the lay leader can provide a valuable service by arranging for 

personnel to visit local places of worship.
3-1

SECTION THREE:

GUIDE FOR CATHOLIC LAY LEADERS

Overview

A Roman Catholic lay leader is selected, trained, authorized/certified, and supervised by the 

Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (a.k.a., Military Archdiocese) and appointed by the 

unit’s CO to lead a Roman Catholic service during operational periods (e.g., deployments) when 

there is limited or no access to a Roman Catholic priest/chaplain. 

The lay leader is authorized to conduct a Liturgy of the Hours or Liturgy of the Word service in 

accordance with the text, Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest. A lay leader is 

generally not authorized to reserve, transport, or distribute Holy Communion unless specifically 

stated on the pertinent documents from the Military Archdiocese. Details regarding particular 

liturgical seasons, holy days, and the like can be found by consulting the current Order of Prayer 

in the Liturgy of the Hours and Celebration of the Eucharist. Additional resources may be found 

at: http://www.milarch.org/ams-lay-leaders/

A lay leader must be a practicing Catholic known to the Catholic priest/chaplain who will train 

and supervise the lay leader. Attestation of such from the pastor’s home parish should suffice. 

The lay leader will have received all three Sacraments of Christian Initiation and provide 

documentation from the parish where the sacraments were administered. If the lay leader is or 

has ever been, married then the status of that marriage shall be in accordance with the pertinent 

precepts and laws of the Catholic Church.

The lay leader will be of good moral character, reverential, and respectful of his/her faith. The 

Military Archdiocese will certify a lay leader only if a valid need is demonstrated. The 

appointment by the Military Archdiocese is good for one (1) year or the duration of the 

deployment, whichever milestone is reached first, and shall not extend past the lay leader’s term 

of orders.

A lay leader will be trained by and subsequently work closely with the nearest Catholic 

priest/chaplain to the lay leader’s command. The priest/chaplain must have faculties from the 

Military Archdiocese. This priest/chaplain will also be the lay leader’s point of contact for 

Catholic resources and other supervisory matters. Additional information regarding the 

priest/chaplain is found in the Military Archdiocese’s Policy of Lay Leaders 

(https://www.milarch.org/ams-lay-leaders/).

Once trained, authorized, and deployed, a lay leader will state at the beginning of the service 

from a Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest that the service is not a Mass and that 

Holy Communion will not be distributed (unless explicitly allowed by the Military Archdiocese).

Such services are never held in conjunction with any non-Catholic service and attendance at a 

non-Catholic service (other than Eastern Orthodox, if permitted by that chaplain) is not a suitable 

replacement for a Catholic’s Sunday obligation. The lay leader will remind Catholics that they 

are prohibited from receiving communion from a non-Catholic chaplain/minster. “Catholic” is 
3-2

considered to refer to Roman Catholic Church and all those Eastern Catholic Churches in union 

with Rome.

An Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC) generally assists the ordinary 

minister of Holy Communion (i.e., bishop, priest, deacon) with the distribution of Holy 

Communion. Therefore, the EMHC is co-located with a priest/chaplain at an installation chapel 

and in extraordinary circumstances may be permitted to conduct a Sunday service in the 

temporary absence of a priest or deacon. Therefore, for the purposes of operational units and 

deployments, an EMHC’s ministry will generally not apply. Only lay leader’s specifically 

authorized by the Military Archdiocese may distribute Holy Communion.

Operational/deployable commands should consider the following situations in concurring with 

the appointment of a lay leader, who has to be formally appointed by the Archdiocese for the 

Military Services:

 A lay leader facilitates religious services in the absence of a Catholic priest/chaplain.

o A lay leader may conduct services in accordance with Sunday Celebrations in the 

Absence of a Priest, normally in the form of a Liturgy of the Word or Liturgy of the 

Hours.

o Only when there is an expressed need and total support of the command, and 

adequate time for the required training should a lay leader be considered for a 

deployment. 

o The preference for Roman Catholic worship is always to have a priest present for 

Liturgy of the Eucharist; when this cannot be provided and only if a lay leader is the 

sole remaining option.

 Typically, a lay leader may be tasked with the following: 

o Contact the pertinent supervisory priest frequently and one week prior to a 

deployment. 

o Announce in the POD the time and place of the Roman Catholic Service. 

o Announce Church Call over 1MC 10 minutes prior to starting. 

o Encourage Roman Catholics to attend. 

o Be enthusiastic in leading the service. 

o Prepare the service in accordance with Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a 

Priest.

o Keep all religious articles cleaned and stowed properly. 
3-3

Considerations

 A lay leader facilitates a religious service in the absence of a Military Catholic Chaplain 

or a Catholic priest with facilities.

 Remember, you have been appointed by the Archdiocese for the Military Services to be 

the lay leader for this command only. Any transfers to another command require recertification and approval via the local Catholic Military Chaplain and the Military 

Archdiocese.

Guide to a Successful Service

 Announce in the Plan of the Day (POD) the time and place of the Roman Catholic 

Communion Service.

 Announce Church Call over 1MC 10 minutes prior to starting.

 Encourage Roman Catholics to attend.

 Be enthusiastic in leading the service.

 Prepare the service per printed booklet and missal (both found at www.ocp.org).

 Keep crucifix and candles cleaned.

 Keep a clean altar/table cover.

 Use recorded music or a musician if possible at beginning of the service and end of 

service.

 Remember, you have been appointed as the Catholic lay leader by the Archdiocese for 

the Military Services and the Commanding Officer to serve your Catholic shipmates.

Lay Leader “Do Nots”

As a lay leader do NOT:

 Reserve, transport, deliver, or administer Holy Communion (unless explicitly authorized 

by the Military Archdiocese).

 Assume the command (XO, CO, CMC, OIC, etc.) knows when or where service is being 

held. 

 Assume designated spaces are clean and prepared for service. 

 “Wing it” as far as preparation for readings and prayers. 
3-4

 Announce “Catholic Divine Services” (rather, announce, “Catholic Liturgy of the 

Word/Liturgy of the Hours”) “is being held at [time] in [place].”

 Pretend a Mass is being celebrated. 

 Hesitate to bring any problems to the chain of command, since the Command Religious 

Program is their responsibility. The supervisory priest/chaplain should be notified 

immediately should any problems arise. 

 Look at yourself as merely performing a collateral duty as much as performing a vital 

ministry on behalf of the Church to the faithful. 

 Counsel or act as a Catholic Chaplain. 

 Lead a service when in homeport or when a priest is available during a deployment. 

Which Service to Use

To determine which service to use and when to use it, consult the Christian Year Calendar.

Outline for a Service

1. Song or entrance Antiphon

2. Sign of the Cross / Opening Greeting

3. Penitential Rite

4. Gloria

5. 1

st Reading, Psalm, 2nd Reading, Gospel

6. Printed reflection

7. Creed

8. Intercessions

9. Our Father

10. Sign of Peace

11. Final Prayer

12. Sign of Cross (not a Priestly blessing)

13. Dismissal
3-5

General Intercessions

For our Holy Father, our President, and all church and state leaders that they may be instrumental 

in promoting peace and justice in the world. We pray to the Lord.

For one another, that we may witness to our faith in Christ by our words and deeds. We pray to 

the Lord.

For the sick and the suffering, and for all who are in special need of our prayers, especially 

Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action. We pray to the Lord.

For our families and our loved ones, that the Lord may keep us strong in our love for one 

another. We pray to the Lord.

Please offer your personal prayers to the Lord.

Psalm Prayers of Preparation

The following are Psalm Prayers of Preparation:

 Psalm 1 Disposition of worshipper

 Psalm 22 (23) Lord feeds his flock

 Psalm 23 (24) The Lord: Coming to those prepared

 Psalm 33 (34) Preparation and praise by believer

 Psalm 39 (40) Readiness

 Psalm 62 (63) Longing for the Lord

 Psalm 83 (84) Beauty of the Lord’s dwelling

 Psalm 99 (100) Praise on entering the Lord’s presence

 Psalm 130 (131) Peacefulness

Psalm Prayers of Thanksgiving

 Psalm 8 Thanks for all creation

 Psalm 15 (16) Recommitment

 Psalm 18a (19a) Glory of the Lord
3-6

 Psalm 46 (47) Praise

 Psalm 65 (66) Greatness of the Lord’s deeds

 Psalm 71 (72) Kingship of the Lord

 Psalm 90 (91) Protection

 Psalm 95 (96) A new song to the Lord

 Psalm 99 (100) Joyful thanks

 Psalm 118 (119) Love of God’s law

 Psalm 135 (136) Litany of thanks

 Psalm 145 (146) Hymn of all creation

Meditations

The “Way of the Cross” is an ancient form of meditation, using sight and movement. Early 

Christians used to walk the “Via Dolorosa” of Jesus in Jerusalem, following in the footsteps of 

the Lord. Francis of Assisi popularized the prayer in its present form. All that is required to 

“make the stations” is a prayerful pondering of the mystery of Jesus’ suffering, moving from one 

scene to the next.

 1

st Jesus is condemned to death.

 2

nd Jesus carries his Cross.

 3

rd Jesus falls the first time.

 4

th Jesus meets his sorrowful Mother.

 5

th Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry his cross.

 6

th Veronica wipes the face of Jesus.

 7

th Jesus falls the second time.

 8

th The daughters of Jerusalem weep over Jesus.

 9

th Jesus falls the third time.

 10th Jesus is stripped of his garments.

 11th Jesus is nailed to the cross.
3-7

 12th Jesus dies on the cross.

 13th Jesus is taken down from the cross.

 14th Jesus is buried in the tomb.

 15th The Resurrection.

The Rosary

The rosary consists of 150 Hail Mary’s to correspond to the number of psalms. These 150 Hail 

Mary’s are divided into groups of 10 (decades), each group being introduced by an Our Father 

and closed with a Glory be to the Father, thus giving 15 decades for the whole rosary. Since the 

whole rosary of 150 beads is rather unwieldy, it is usually shortened into five decades so that our 

common rosary is only one-third of the size.

To say the Rosary properly, one should not only say the Our Fathers and Hail Mary’s, but also 

reflect on one of the mysteries of the life of the Lord or the Blessed Virgin. There are fifteen 

such mysteries for the rosary, one for each decade. These fifteen mysteries are grouped into the 

five Joyful, the five Sorrowful, and the five Glorious Mysteries, and are intended to give us a 

brief account of our Lord’s life.

“Hail Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope! To thee do we cry 

poor banished children of Eve; to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this 

valley of tears! Turn, then, most gracious Advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us, and after 

this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O Sweet 

Virgin Mary!

V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God. 

R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. 

Let us pray. O God, whose only-begotten Son, by his life, death, and resurrection, has purchased 

for us the rewards of eternal life, grant, we beseech thee, that meditating on these mysteries in 

the most holy rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain, and obtain 

what they promise, through the same Christ, our Lord. Amen.”

“Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary that never was it known that anyone who fled to your 

protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this 

confidence we fly unto you, O Virgin of Virgins, Our Mother; to you we come, before you we 

stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not our petitions, but in 

your mercy hear and answer them. Amen.”

“Queen of Heaven, rejoice, Alleluia. For He whom You did deserve to bear, Alleluia. Has risen 

as He said, Alleluia. 

Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary, Alleluia. Because our Lord is truly risen, Alleluia. 
3-8

Let us pray: O God, who by the resurrection of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, has given joy to 

the world, grant, we beseech You, that through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, his Mother, 

we may attain the joys of eternal life, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.”

Morning Offering

Eternal Father, I give You thanks and praise for the blessings, which You have bestowed on my 

family, my loved ones, and me. I offer You my life, and in particular my thoughts, words, and 

deeds, together with any trials I may undergo this day. Continue to bless and guide me, Lord, 

that I may be an instrument of your peace and love. Amen.

Our Father

Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on 

Earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we 

forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

(For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, now and forever.) Amen.

Hail Mary

Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is 

the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour 

of our death. Amen.

Prayer of Praise

Glory be the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and 

ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Act of Contrition

My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do 

good, I have sinned against You whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your 

help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Amen.

Prayer for Peace

God, our Father, You sent your Son into the world as the Prince of Peace. As his followers, help 

us through the power of the Holy Spirit to work without ceasing for that justice which brings true 

and lasting peace. Amen.
3-9

Prayer for the Holy Spirit

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and rekindle in them the fire of your love. Send 

forth your Spirit and they shall be created and You shall renew the face of the Earth. Oh, God, 

who has instructed the hearts of your faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the 

same Holy Spirit we may have a right judgment in all things and evermore rejoice in his 

consolations. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer for Vocations

Jesus, High Priest and Redeemer forever, we beg You to call young men and women to your 

service as priests and religious leaders. May they be inspired by the lives of dedicated priests, 

brothers, and sisters. Lord, You told us “the harvest indeed is great but the laborers are few. 

Pray, therefore, the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his harvest.” We pray particularly 

for those called to serve as priests, brothers, and sisters; those whom You have called, those You 

are calling now, and those You will call in the future. May they be open and responsive to the 

call of serving your people. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his 

only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin 

Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to 

the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into Heaven, and is seated at the right 

hand of the Father. He will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, 

the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of 

the body, and life everlasting. Amen

Act of Faith

O my God, I firmly believe that You are one God in three divine persons, Father, Son, and Holy 

Spirit. I believe that your divine Son became man and died for our sins, and that He will come to 

judge the living and the dead. I believe these and all the truths, which the Holy Catholic Church 

teaches, because You, who can neither deceive nor be deceived, have revealed them. Amen

Act of Hope

O my God, relying on your infinite goodness and promises, I hope to obtain pardon for my sins, 

the help of your grace, and life everlasting, through the merits of Jesus Christ, my Lord and 

Redeemer. Amen.
3-10

Prayer of St. Francis

Lord; make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Where 

there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is 

darkness, light. Where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console. To be 

understood as to understand. To be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive. It is in 

pardoning that we are pardoned. It is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.
4-1

SECTION FOUR:

GUIDE FOR PROTESTANT LAY LEADERS

Overview

Protestant Lay Leaders, while not appointed by any denomination, are empowered by the Holy 

Spirit to have a powerful and fruitful ministry among their shipmates.

What is Worship

The expression of worship and prayer should be focused not only on how we gather but why we 

gather.

Worship is described in the Bible as an act in which a person expresses his/her reverence or 

adoration to God above all else. In the Christian tradition, it is all this and more. 

Worship may be private or public, individual or corporate (group). It is the function of the lay 

leader to lead the congregation in corporate (group) prayer. There is a spiritual bond that is twofold. It strengthens the individual’s spiritual life, and it also brings about group solidarity in 

which each believer both helps and is helped by the others in the congregation.

There is typically a two-fold tradition of religious service: liturgical and non-liturgical. In 

liturgical worship the service is conducted using an officially adopted form and prayers. In a 

non-liturgical service, much more use is made of extemporaneous prayer and the service is 

usually less formal in its presentation though not less reverent.

A lay leader will, of course, be guided by his/her own faith background and experience; 

however, a lay leader must take into account the fact that he/she will have in the congregation 

individuals of varying Protestant traditions.

Common Elements of a Worship Service

A Protestant worship service may contain some or all of the following parts:

 Musical processional – prelude

 Call to worship

 Hymn of praise

 Prayer of praise and invocation to God to draw near

 Hymn related to message topic or church year/season
4-2

Sample Protestant Order of Service

The following is a sample of Protestant Order of Service:

 Responsive reading/Psalm

 Prayer of Penitence, Intercession, and Thanks

 Old Testament Reading

 New Testament Reading

 Presentation of special music, poetry, drama, puppets

 Choral music

 Offering and prayer of thanksgiving/dedication

 Singing of doxology

 Reading of Gospel

 Hymn of invitation

 Meditation

 Prayer of benediction, dismissal

 Musical recessional, postlude

Preparing a Christian Devotional Message

As you prepare a Christian Devotional message, remember there are three major doctrinal keys 

that open up the meaning of every book in the Bible:

 Every book has a redemption story.

 Every book exposes and explains the nature of God.

 Every book exposes and explains the nature of Man.

Below are planning suggestions for lay leaders to follow when preparing a devotional message:

 Maintain a close personal relationship with God.

 Maintain a genuine concern for your shipmates.
4-3

 Maintain a systematic program of Bible study.

 Keep the spiritual state and needs of your crew in mind in light of contemporary culture.

 Pray that the Holy Spirit will enable you to prepare and share devotionals that are 

Biblical/supportive.

 Select a text and read the text in several versions (at least three).

 Do an analysis of the text.

 Ask yourself, “Where does it fit in the total context of Scripture?”

 Ask yourself, “What is the Old Testament (O.T). & New Testament (N.T.) relationship?”

 Ask yourself, “What is the theme or central idea of the text?”

 Do an exegesis of the text. This literally means to “lead out” or “read out” and refers to 

all those procedures necessary to identify the true meaning of a passage of Scripture.

 Read commentaries and find out what others think the text is saying?

 List possible applications of the text.

 Ask, “What is the text asking me and my hearers to do?”

 Prepare an outline of your devotion, and add illustrations.

 Add applications to your illustrations.

 Review your devotional message aloud one section at a time.

 Decide how you will end your message (conclusion).

 Decide how to begin your message (introduction).

Music, Prayers, and Scripture in Worship

Music is important part of any service and should not be overlooked. The diversity of prayer 

includes written prayers, extemporaneous prayers, and prayers read in unison. Various faith 

groups handle the Scriptures differently. Some stand when Scripture is read, some stand for the 

Gospels only, and some stay seated. Readings and recorded sermons, your own testimony and 

those of others may be contributed to relate what the Scripture passage means personally.
4-4

Baptisms and Communion

Baptisms and Communion services are only to be conducted by those specifically authorized and 

appointed by their faith group.

Seasons of the Christian Year

Early Christians, long before the invention of printing when many did not know how to read, 

divided the year into seasons that reminded them of the life of Christ. This division became 

known as the Christian year or the Liturgical Year. Most Christians celebrate some or all of the 

seasons of the Christian year. 

Season Description

Advent The four Sundays before Christmas; a time of preparation for the birth of 

Christ.

Christmas Twelve days, beginning on 25 December, when the birth of Christ is 

celebrated.

Epiphany Four to nine Sundays beginning with the celebration of the visit of the Magi; 

the last Sunday of Epiphany is the Sunday immediately preceding Ash 

Wednesday.

Lent Forty days of preparation and repentance before the celebration of Jesus’ 

death and resurrection, ending the Saturday before Easter and based upon the 

Biblically symbolic number of 40.

Ash 

Wednesday

The first day of Lent.

Palm Sunday The remembrance of Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem; also known as Passion 

Sunday in some traditions that remember the final week of Jesus’ life.

Holy Week The seven days from Palm Sunday to Easter.

Maundy 

Thursday

(Latin, meaning mandate) The remembrance of Jesus’ Last Supper and 

washing of His disciples’ feet.

Good Friday The remembrance of Jesus’ crucifixion.

Easter The celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection; the celebration of Easter lasts seven 

Sundays.
4-5

Pentecost The 50th day after Easter; the day the church received the Holy Spirit.

Common 

time

The days after Pentecost when the teachings, healings, and other events of 

Christ’s life are remembered; ends on the Sunday before the first Sunday of 

Advent, also known as Christ the King Sunday.
4-6

Common Christian Terms

Apostolic Succession: the belief that the church and/or doctrine began and continued from the 

original disciples.

Baptism: an outward sign using water to represent an inward change. There are four different 

methods:

 Infant sprinkling

 Infant immersion

 Adult sprinkling

 Adult immersion

Be Saved: a spiritual relationship between Christ and a person that effects salvation.

Believer’s Baptism: baptism by immersion of a person old enough to distinguish sin and 

righteousness and Christ’s life, burial, and resurrection.

Born Again: signifies that a person has had a life-changing experience with Jesus, through faith 

and acceptance of Him as Savior.

Christening: to name and to dedicate ceremonially using water as a symbol.

Communion: the act of observing the Last Supper of Christ with His disciples. Some religious 

traditions use wine as a common cup. Some use grape juice only in small individual cups. Some 

religious traditions observe Holy Communion weekly, others monthly or less often.

Confession: Some candidates for membership in specific communal church bodies must make a 

public confession of faith in Christ prior to baptism membership.

Dedication: a symbolic act for infants without the act of baptism where the children are 

dedicated to the Lord by their parents.

Ecumenical: a term signifying a combined worship service for more than one Christian 

denomination.

Evangelical: Evangelical is a term denoting the promotion of discipleship through active contact 

with nonbelievers.

Free Church: a distinction in the style of worship whereby ecclesiastical garb, use of church 

ritual, and ornamentation is minimized.

Fundamentalist: a term denoting those who hold “fundamental beliefs.” No one church or 

denomination has the title. Fundamentalists’ primary doctrine holds the Bible to be verbally 

inspired, inerrant, and infallible.
4-7

Interfaith: signifies a worship or prayer service including religions other than Christian. 

Leadership of such events reflects a harmony of representation.

Liturgical: religious traditions that utilize a cycle of Scripture readings. There is usually a 

prescribed order to the worship service.

Lord’s Supper: a term used in various religious traditions as synonymous as Holy Communion.

Nondenominational: a term applied to churches that choose not to form an official association 

with other church bodies.

Pentecostal: groups that practice speaking in tongues. Such individuals are often referred to as 

having been baptized by the Holy Spirit.
5-1

SECTION FIVE:

GUIDE FOR EASTERN ORTHODOX LAY LEADERS

Introductory Caution and Overview

The material in this section is not intended to be a substitute for the Divine Liturgy served by an 

Eastern Orthodox chaplain. Under no circumstances is a lay service to be preferred to the actual 

celebration of the Divine Liturgy when an Orthodox priest is available.

The prayers listed under “Prayers for Various Occasions” are designed to be read individually, 

although they may also be read corporately, and the prayers under “The Reader’s Service of the 

Hours and Typika” are designed to be read corporately, if at all possible. The Reader’s Service

is an ancient liturgical service and is designed to be read collaboratively as much as possible 

(that is, although one lay leader may take a facilitating role, he or she is encouraged to include as 

many people in the readings as possible). In general, participants stand throughout the service.

Establishing the “Prayer Corner”

Depending on the space available for corporate prayer, the lay leader will ideally attempt to 

establish a “prayer corner” such as is found in a traditional Orthodox Christian home, rather than 

an altar or etc. In order to do this, a table or bookshelf may be placed temporarily into a corner –

the east corner of the room, if in a fixed location and draped in the nicest fabric available. On the 

top surface, a book of the Scriptures should be centered, and two candles or oil lampadas placed 

on either side. If a small “hand-censer” or table censer is available to hold charcoal and incense 

for use during prayers, this is ideal. Sitting at the back edge of the top surface and leaning 

against the wall, any icons available may be displayed – and in essence, the more the better. If 

there is an icon of Pantokrator, it should be in the center, and if that is not available, any icon of 

the Incarnation (i.e. and Mother and Child) will suffice. During the corporate prayers, all 

participants will face the icons and stand reverently together.

Orthodox Prayers for Various Occasions

Prayers Upon Rising from Sleep

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Glory to Thee, O God, glory to Thee.

Heavenly King, Comforter, the Spirit of truth, present everywhere and filling all things, Treasury 

of good things and Giver of life: come and dwell in us, cleanse us of every impurity; and save 

our souls, O good One.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.
5-2

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

All-holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us of our sins. Master, pardon our 

iniquities. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for Thy name's sake.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done 

on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we 

forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the 

evil one.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Having risen from sleep we fall down before Thee, O good One, and sing the angelic hymn to 

Thee, O powerful One: Holy, holy, holy art Thou, O God; through the Theotokos have mercy on 

us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

Having aroused me from bed and sleep, Lord, enlighten my mind, and open my heart and my 

lips, that I may sing to Thee, O Holy Trinity: Holy, Holy, Holy art Thou, O God; through the 

Theotokos, have mercy on us.

Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Suddenly the Judge will come, and the deeds of each will be exposed; but with fear we cry out in 

the middle of the night: Holy, Holy, Holy art Thou, O God; through the Theotokos, have mercy 

on us.

Lord, have mercy. (12)

Rising from sleep, I thank Thee, O Holy Trinity, for in the multitude of Thy goodness and 

compassion, Thou wast not angry with me, an idler and sinner, nor hast Thou destroyed me in 

my transgressions, but Thou hast maintained Thy usual love for mankind; and when I was 

prostrate in despair, Thou hast raised me to offer my morning prayer and to glorify Thy 

power. And now, enlighten the eye of my mind, open my mouth, help me to contemplate Thy 
5-3

words and to understand Thy commandments, and to do Thy will, and to sing to Thee in heartfelt 

confession, and to praise Thine all-holy name: of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy 

Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

(The above prayers should be read upon rising from sleep and before beginning any work.)

Morning Prayers

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Glory to Thee, O God, glory to Thee.

Heavenly King, Comforter, the Spirit of truth, present everywhere and filling all things, Treasury 

of good things and Giver of life: come and dwell in us, cleanse us of every impurity; and save 

our souls, O good One.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

All-holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us of our sins. Master, pardon our 

iniquities. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for Thy name's sake.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done 

on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we 

forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the 

evil one.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. (12)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.
5-4

Come, let us worship and fall down before, our King and God.

Come let us worship and fall down before Christ, our King and God.

Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ Himself, our King and God.

Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Thy lovingkindness; according to the multitude of 

Thy tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and 

cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 

Against Thee, and Thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Thy sight, that Thou might be 

found just when Thou dost speak, and blameless when Thou dost judge. Behold, I was brought 

forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me. Behold, Thou hast desired truth in the 

inward parts, and in the hidden part Thou wilt make me to know wisdom. Purge me with hyssop, 

and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me to hear joy and gladness 

that the bones that Thou hast broken may rejoice. Hide Thy face from my sins, and blot out all 

my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Cast 

me not away from Thy presence, take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Thy 

salvation, and uphold me by Thy generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Thy ways, and 

sinners shall be converted unto Thee. Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, the God 

of my salvation, and my tongue shall sing aloud of Thy righteousness. O Lord, open my lips, 

and my mouth shall show forth Thy praise. For Thou dost not desire sacrifice, or else I would 

give it; Thou dost not delight in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a 

broken and a contrite heart, these, O God, Thou wilt not despise. Do good in Thy good pleasure 

unto Zion; build the walls of Jerusalem. Then Thou shalt be pleased with the sacrifices of 

righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering; then they shall offer bulls upon 

Thine altar.

I will lift up my eyes to the hills, from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, 

Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will 

not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your 

keeper; the Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the 

moon by night. The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The 

Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even 

forevermore.

Behold, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who by night stand in the house of the Lord! 

Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord. The Lord who made heaven and earth 

bless you from Zion!

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

I believe in one God, Father, Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and 

invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father 

before all ages; Light of Light, true God of true God, begotten, not created, of one essence with 

the Father, through Whom all things were made. Who for us men and for our salvation came 
5-5

down from heaven and was incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became man. 

He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried; And He rose on the 

third day, according to the Scriptures. He ascended into the heaven, and is seated at the right 

hand of the Father; And He will come again with glory to judge the living and dead. His 

kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Creator of life, Who 

proceeds from the Father, Who together with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, 

Who spoke through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. I 

confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the 

life of the age to come. Amen.

Behold, the Bridegroom comes at midnight; and blessed is that servant whom He shall find 

watching, but unworthy is he whom He shall find heedless. Beware, therefore, O my soul, lest 

you be weighed down with sleep, lest you be given up to death, and be shut out from the 

Kingdom. But rouse yourself and cry: "Holy, Holy, Holy art Thou O God; through the 

Theotokos have mercy on us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

Meditating on that fearful day, O my soul, watch, keep your lamp alight and filled with oil; for 

you do not know when the voice shall come to you saying: "Behold the Bridegroom." Beware, 

therefore, my soul, lest you fall into slumber and be left outside, knocking, as were the five 

virgins; but wakefully watch, that You may come to meet Christ with good oil, and He shall 

bestow upon you the divine chamber of His glory.

Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Virgin Theotokos, the unassailable wall and confirmation of salvation, we supplicate you: 

destroy the counsels of the enemies, change the sorrows of your people into joy, protect your 

city, be the ally of rulers, encourage all who are yours, strengthen your faithful ones, and pray for 

the peace of the world; for you, O Theotokos, are our hope.

Lord, have mercy. (40)

Thou Who at all times and at every hour are worshipped and glorified both in heaven and on 

earth, O Christ God; Who art long suffering and generous in mercy and compassion; Who lovest 

the just and showest mercy to those hardened in sin; Who callest all people to salvation through 

the promise of good things to come: receive, O Lord, our supplications at this time, and direct 

our lives according to Thy commandments. Sanctify our souls; purify our bodies; set our minds 

aright; cleanse our thoughts; and deliver us from all calamity, wrath and distress. Surround us 

with Thy holy Angels, so that guided and guarded by them we may attain the unity of the faith, 

and the comprehension of Thine ineffable glory; for Thou art blessed to the ages of ages. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.
5-6

More honorable than the Cherubim, and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim; 

remaining virgin you gave birth to God the Word, true Theotokos, we magnify you.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

During the period of the Great Fast (Great Lent), read the Prayer of Saint Ephraim the Syrian, 

making the customary prostrations as indicated.

O Lord and Master of my life, take from me from the spirit of sloth, despair, lust for power, and 

idle talk. (Prostration)

But grant rather the spirit of chastity, humility, patience, and love to Thy servant. (Prostration)

Yea, O Lord and King, grant that I may see my own sin and not to judge my brother; for Blessed 

art Thou unto ages of ages. Amen. (Prostration)

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

All-holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us of our sins. Master, pardon our 

iniquities. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for Thy name's sake.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done 

on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we 

forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the 

evil one.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Remember Thy servants, O Lord, in Thy goodness, and forgive the sins they commit in this life: 

for there is no one sinless except Thee, the all-powerful One, Who gives rest to those whom 

Thou hast forgiven.
5-7

In the depth of wisdom, O Thou Who lovest mankind, Thou hast ordered the universe, and hast 

bestowed on us that which is good, O Creator; grant rest, Lord, to the souls of Thy servants: for 

they have truly placed their hope in Thee, our Maker and Fashioner and our God.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

Among Thy saints give rest, O Christ, to the souls of Thy servants, in a place where there is no 

pain, or sorrow, or grieving, but only life everlasting.

Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

All generations call you blessed, Virgin Theotokos; for in you the indivisible Christ, our God, 

assumed flesh. Blessed are you and blessed are we who have you as our protection: praying day 

and night for us; and through your petitions the doors of the Kingdom are opened. Thus we sing 

to you: Rejoice, you are full of grace, the Lord is with you.

Lord have mercy. (12)

Remember, Lord, those who hope in the resurrection to eternal life, our fathers and brothers who 

have fallen asleep, and all those who have ended this life in piety and faith; and forgive their 

every transgression whether committed knowingly or in ignorance, in word, in deed, or in 

thought. Grant them rest in a place of light, in a place of repose, in a place of refreshment, where 

there is no pain, sorrow, or suffering, where the radiance of Thy countenance shines upon Thy 

saints unto the ages. Grant to them, and to us, a place in Thy Kingdom, bestowing on us Thine 

immeasurable and bounteous goodness as well as Thy blessed and eternal life. For Thou art the 

life, the resurrection, and the repose of Thy servants who have fallen asleep, O Christ our God, 

and to Thee we send up glory, with Thine eternal Father, and Thine all-holy, and good, and lifecreating Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Most-glorious, ever-virgin, blessed Theotokos, present our prayer to your Son and our God, and 

plead with Him, that through you He may save our souls.

My hope is the Father, my refuge is the Son, my protection is the Holy Spirit. Holy Trinity, 

glory to Thee.

All my hope I place in you, O Mother of God: guard me under your protection.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Daily Table Prayers

Before Breakfast: 

Blessed is our God Who bestows upon us His rich gifts, always now and ever and to the ages 

of ages. Amen.
5-8

After Breakfast: 

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Before the Midday Meal:

Our Father, Who art in the heavens, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be 

done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, 

as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from 

the evil one. Amen.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

After the Midday Meal:

We thank Thee, Christ our God, that Thou hast filled us with Thine earthly blessings; do not 

deprive us of Thy heavenly Kingdom, but as Thou camest into the midst of Thy Disciples and 

gave them peace, so come to us and save us. Amen.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. (3)

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Before Supper:

The poor shall eat and be filled, and those that seek the Lord shall praise Him; their hearts shall 

live to the ages of ages. Amen.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. (3)

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.
5-9

After Supper:

Thou hast gladdened me, Lord, by Thy deeds and I will rejoice in the works of Thy hands. The 

light of Thy countenance has shined upon us, Lord; Thou hast given gladness to my heart. From 

the fruit of their works they shall be filled. In peace in the same place I shall lie down and sleep, 

for Thou alone, Lord, have made me dwell in hope.

Evening Prayer (Little Compline)

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Glory to Thee, O God, glory to Thee.

Heavenly King, Comforter, the Spirit of truth, present everywhere and filling all things, Treasury 

of good things and Giver of life: come and dwell in us, cleanse us of every impurity; and save 

our souls, O good One.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

All-holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us of our sins. Master, pardon our 

iniquities. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for Thy name's sake.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done 

on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we 

forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the 

evil one.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. (12)
5-10

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Come, let us worship and fall down before, our King and God.

Come let us worship and fall down before Christ, our King and God.

Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ Himself, our King and God

Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Thy lovingkindness; according to the multitude of 

Thy tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and 

cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 

Against Thee, and Thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Thy sight, that Thou might be 

found just when Thou dost speak, and blameless when Thou dost judge. Behold, I was brought 

forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me. Behold, Thou hast desired truth in the 

inward parts, and in the hidden part Thou wilt make me to know wisdom. Purge me with hyssop, 

and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me to hear joy and gladness 

that the bones that Thou hast broken may rejoice. Hide Thy face from my sins, and blot out all 

my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Cast 

me not away from Thy presence, take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Thy 

salvation, and uphold me by Thy generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Thy ways, and 

sinners shall be converted unto Thee. Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, the God 

of my salvation, and my tongue shall sing aloud of Thy righteousness. O Lord, open my lips, 

and my mouth shall show forth Thy praise. For Thou dost not desire sacrifice, or else I would 

give it; Thou dost not delight in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a 

broken and a contrite heart, these, O God, Thou wilt not despise. Do good in Thy good pleasure 

unto Zion; build the walls of Jerusalem. Then Thou shalt be pleased with the sacrifices of 

righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering; then they shall offer bulls upon 

Thine altar.

Make haste, O God, to deliver me! Make haste to help me, O Lord! Let them be ashamed and 

confounded who seek my life; let them be turned back and confused who desire my hurt. Let 

them be turned back because of their shame, who say, “Aha, aha!” Let all those who seek Thee 

rejoice and be glad in Thee; and let those who love Thy salvation say continually, “Let God be 

magnified!” But I am poor and needy; make haste to me, O God! Thou art my help and my 

deliverer; O Lord, do not delay.

Hear my prayer, O Lord, give ear to my supplications! In Thy faithfulness answer me, and in 

Thy righteousness. Do not enter into judgment with Thy servant, for in Thy sight no one living 

is righteous. For the enemy has persecuted my soul; he has crushed my life to the ground; he has 

made me dwell in darkness, like those who have long been dead. Therefore my spirit is 

overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is distressed. I remember the days of old; I

meditate on all Thy works; I muse on the work of Thy hands. I spread out my hands to Thee; my 

soul longs for Thee like a thirsty land. Answer me speedily, O Lord; my spirit fails! Do not hide 

Thy face from me, lest I be like those who go down into the pit. Cause me to hear Thy 

lovingkindness in the morning, for in Thee do I trust; cause me to know the way in which I 
5-11

should walk, for I lift up my soul to Thee. Deliver me, O Lord, from my enemies; in Thee I take 

shelter. Teach me to do Thy will, for Thou art my God; Thy Spirit is good. Lead me in the land 

of uprightness. Revive me, O Lord, for Thy name’s sake! For Thy righteousness’ sake bring my 

soul out of trouble. In Thy mercy cut off my enemies, and destroy all those who afflict my soul; 

for I am Thy servant.

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will among men.

We praise Thee, we bless Thee, we worship Thee, we glorify Thee, we give thanks to Thee for 

Thy great glory.

Lord, King, heavenly God, Father almighty; Lord, only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ; and Holy 

Spirit.

Lord, God, the Lamb of God, the Son of the Father, Who takes away the sin of the world: have 

mercy on us, O Thou Who takes away the sins of the world.

Receive our prayer, O Thou Who sits at the right hand of the Father, and have mercy on us.

For Thou only are holy, Thou only are Lord, Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Each day I will bless Thee, and praise Thy name to the ages, and to the ages of ages.

Lord, Thou hast been our refuge in generation to generation. I have said: Lord have mercy upon 

me; heal my soul, for I have sinned against Thee.

Lord, in Thee I have taken refuge: teach me to do Thy will, for Thou art my God.

For in Thee is the fountain of life: in Thy light we shall see light.

Continue Thy mercy to those who know Thee.

Make us worthy, Lord, in this night to be kept from sin.

Blessed art Thou, Lord, the God of our fathers, and praised and glorified is Thy name to the 

ages. Amen.

May Thy mercy, Lord, be upon us, inasmuch as we trust in Thee.

Blessed art Thou, O Lord: teach me Thy commandments.

Blessed art Thou, O Master: make me to understand Thy commandments.

Blessed art Thou, O Holy One: enlighten me with Thy commandments.

Lord, Thy mercy is to the ages; do not disdain the works of Thy hands.
5-12

To Thee belongeth praise, to Thee belongeth a song, to Thee belongeth glory, to the Father and 

to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now, and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

I believe in one God, Father, Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and 

invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father 

before all ages; Light of Light, true God of true God, begotten, not created, of one essence with 

the Father, through Whom all things were made. Who for us men and for our salvation came 

down from heaven and was incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became man. 

He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried; And He rose on the 

third day, according to the Scriptures. He ascended into the heaven, and is seated at the right 

hand of the Father; And He will come again with glory to judge the living and dead. His 

kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Creator of life, Who 

proceeds from the Father, Who together with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, 

Who spoke through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. I 

confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the 

life of the age to come. Amen.

It is truly meet to bless you, O Theotokos, ever-blessed and most pure and the Mother of our 

God. More honorable than the Cherubim, and more glorious beyond compare than the 

Seraphim; remaining virgin you gave birth to God the Word; true Theotokos, we magnify you.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

All-holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us of our sins. Master, pardon our 

iniquities. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities for Thy name's sake.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done 

on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we 

forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the 

evil one.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save 

us. Amen.
5-13

God of our Fathers, Who always deals with us according to Thy compassion, do not take Thy 

mercy away from us, but through the intercessions of our Holy Fathers, guide our life in peace.

Over the whole world Thy Church, crimsoned with the blood of Thy martyrs, cries out to Thee, 

O Christ God: "Send down Thy compassion upon Thy people, grant peace to Thy 

commonwealth, and extend Thy great mercy to our souls."

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

Among Thy saints give rest, O Christ, to the souls of Thy servants, where there is no pain, or 

sorrow, or grieving, but only life everlasting.

Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Through the intercessions of all the saints, O Lord, and of the Theotokos, grant us Thy peace, 

and have mercy upon us, for Thou alone are compassionate.

Lord, have mercy. (40)

Thou Who at all times and at every hour are worshipped and glorified both in heaven and on 

earth, O Christ God; Who art long suffering and generous in mercy and compassion; Who lovest 

the just and showest mercy to those hardened in sin; Who callest all people to salvation through 

the promise of good things to come: receive, O Lord, our supplications at this time, and direct 

our lives according to Thy commandments. Sanctify our souls; purify our bodies; set our minds 

aright; cleanse our thoughts; and deliver us from all calamity, wrath and distress. Surround us 

with Thy holy Angels, so that guided and guarded by them we may attain the unity of the faith, 

and the comprehension of Thine ineffable glory; for Thou art blessed to the ages of ages. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

More honorable than the Cherubim, and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim; 

remaining virgin you gave birth to God the Word; true Theotokos, we magnify you.

Lord, have mercy. (12)

And save us, all-holy Virgin.

Spotless, undefiled, incorruptible, most-chaste, pure Virgin, Bride of God, Lady, who unites God 

the Word to man by your wondrous conception, and who joins the fallen nature of our race to 

heavenly things; the only hope of the hopeless, and the help of the persecuted; the ready help of 

those who flee to you, and the refuge of all Christians: do not reject me the sinner, the accursed 

one, who have rendered myself altogether useless by my shameful thoughts, words, and deeds, 

and who through indolence have become a slave to the pleasures of this life. But as Mother of 
5-14

the God Who loves mankind, show your love for me the sinner and the prodigal, and receive 

from me the prayers offered to you by unhallowed lips, and, using your boldness as a Mother, 

entreat your Son, and our Lord and Master, to extend His goodness to me in His wondrous love 

for mankind, and, overlooking my numberless transgressions, turn me to repentance, showing me 

to be a zealous doer of His commandments. And be ever near me as merciful, and 

compassionate, and gentle; in this present life an ardent protection and help, defending me from 

assaults of adversaries, and leading me to salvation; and in the hour of my departure, encompass 

my struggling soul, and drive the dark visions of evil spirits far from it; in the fearsome day of 

judgment, deliver me from eternal punishment, and present me as an inheritor of the ineffable 

glory of your Son and our God. May this be my lot, my Lady, most-holy Theotokos, through 

your mediation and help; by the grace and love for mankind of your only-begotten Son, the Lord 

and God, and our Savior Jesus Christ. To Whom belongs all glory, honor, and worship, with His 

eternal Father, and His All-Holy, and good, and life-creating Spirit, now and ever, and to the 

ages of ages. Amen.

And grant to us, Master, as we depart for sleep, rest for our body and soul; and protect us from 

the murky sleep of sin, and from all dark and nocturnal passions. Calm the impulses of passion, 

and quench the fiery darts of the evil one, which are treacherously cast against us; check the 

turbulence of our flesh, and put to rest all our earthy and mundane thoughts. And grant to us, 

God, a watchful mind, prudent reasoning, a vigilant heart, tranquil sleep, and release from all 

satanic fantasies. Raise us up at the hour of prayer, strengthened in Thy commandments, and 

holding the remembrance of Thy judgments unshaken within us. Grant to us Thy benediction 

through the night, that we may praise, and bless, and glorify Thine all-honored and most-holy 

Name, of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Most-glorious, ever-virgin, blessed Theotokos, present our prayer to your Son and our God, and 

plead with Him, that through you He may save our souls.

My hope is the Father, my refuge is the Son, my protection is the Holy Spirit. O Holy Trinity, 

glory to Thee.

All my hope I place in you, Mother of God: guard me under your protection.

In you all creation rejoices, the hierarchy of Angels and the race of mankind; you who are full of 

grace, the sanctified Temple and intellectual Paradise, the boast of virgins: from whom God was 

incarnate, and became a Child, Who is our pre-eternal God. For He made your womb His 

throne, and shaped your womb to be more spacious than the heavens. In you rejoices, O full of 

grace, all creation: glory to you.

O Holy Angel, assigned to accompany my wretched soul and lowly life, do not forsake me the 

sinner, nor depart from me because of my wickedness; do not let the evil demons enter and rule 

my mortal body with their might; but rather take my wretched and feeble hand, and lead me 

along the path of salvation. Yes, holy Angel of God, guardian protector of my wretched soul and 

body, forgive me for everything by which I have saddened you all the days of my life, and in my 

sins on this day; shelter me during the coming night, and protect me from the schemes of the 
5-15

obstinate, that I may not anger God with any sin; and intercede with the Lord on my behalf, that 

He might confirm me in His fear and show me forth as a worthy servant of His goodness. Amen.

To you, the champion leader, do I, your city, offer songs of praise for victory! O Theotokos, you 

have delivered me from sufferings and terror. Inasmuch as you have power unassailable, from 

all manner of dangers set me free, that I may cry out to you: Rejoice O bride unwedded!

Rejoice O virgin, Theotokos, Mary full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among 

women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. For you have brought forth the Savior of our 

souls. (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and to the ages of 

ages. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

The Reader’s Service of the Hours and Typika

Opening instructions:

These services are for Orthodox Lay Leaders in the Armed Forces and are not a substitute for 

the Divine Liturgy when an Orthodox Priest is available. Any Orthodox layman may read all 

portions herein. All of the priest's portions have been omitted. Italics are meant to be read 

silently, and regular face type is meant to be chanted out loud. If you cannot chant, read in a 

normal speaking tone. Not included in the following pages are seasonal hymns for the service 

which must be obtained from another resource (online, or from a lectionary or service book) –

bold italics are used below to let you know what is missing, and how to find it. Generally 

speaking, these services are meant to be read together on Sundays when no priest is available 

to serve you. When reading, always face the altar or “prayer corner.” Note: if you have access 

to an Orthodox chapel, take care not to stand directly in front of the Altar Table, or to touch the 

Altar Table or other liturgical objects.

The Third Hour

O God, be merciful to me, a sinner. O God, cleanse me, O Lord, and have mercy on me. 

Having created me, O Lord, have mercy on me. I have sinned immeasurably, O Lord, have 

mercy on me. My sovereign, most holy Mother of God, save me, a sinner. O Angel, my holy 

Guardian, protect me from all evil. O holy Saint _________, pray to God for me.

Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord, Jesus Christ our God, have mercy upon us. 

Amen.

Glory to Thee, our God, glory to Thee!
5-16

O Heavenly King, the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth Who art everywhere and fillest all Things. 

Treasury of blessings, and Giver of life. Come and abide in us, and cleanse us from every 

impurity, and save our souls, O Good One.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us. (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

O Most Holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us from our sins. Master, pardon our 

transgressions. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities, for Thy name's sake.

Lord, have mercy. (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we 

forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

Amen.

Lord, have mercy. (12)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

O come, let us worship God, our King. 

O come, let us worship and fall down before Christ, our King and our God. 

O come, let us worship and fall down before Christ Himself, our King and our God.

Hear a just cause, O Lord; attend to my cry. Give ear to my prayer from lips free of deceit. 

From Thee let my vindication come. Let Thy eyes see the right. If Thou triest my heart, if 

Thou visitest me by night, if Thou testest me, Thou wilt find no wickedness in me; my mouth 

does not transgress. With regard to the works of men, by the word of Thy lips I have avoided 

the ways of the violent. My steps have held fast to Thy paths, my feet have not slipped. I call 

on Thee, for Thou wilt answer me, O God; incline Thy ear to me, hear my words. Wondrously 

show Thy steadfast love, O Savior of those who seek refuge from their adversaries at Thy right 

hand. Keep me as the apple of the eye; hide me in the shadow of Thy wings, from the wicked 

who despoil me, my deadly enemies who surround me. They close their hearts to pity; with 

their mouths, they speak arrogantly. They track me down; now they surround me; they set their 

eyes to cast me to the ground. They are like a young lion lurking in ambush. Arise, O Lord. 

Confront them, overthrow them. Deliver my life from the wicked by Thy sword, from men by 

Thy hand, O Lord, from men whose portion in life is of the world. May their belly be filled 

with what Thou hast stored up for them; may their children have more than enough; may they 
5-17

leave something over to their babes. As for me, I shall behold Thy face in righteousness; when 

I awake, I shall be satisfied with beholding Thy form.

To thee, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in Thee I trust, let me not be put to shame; let 

not my enemies exult over me. Yea, let none that wait for Thee be put to shame; let them be 

ashamed who are wantonly treacherous. Make me to know Thy ways, O Lord; teach me Thy 

paths. Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me, for Thou art the God of my salvation; for Thee I 

wait all the day long. Be mindful of Thy mercy, O Lord, and of Thy steadfast love, for they 

have been from of old. Remember not the sins of my youth, or my transgressions; according to 

Thy steadfast love remember me, for Thy goodness' sake, O Lord. Good and upright is the 

Lord; therefore He instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right, and 

teaches the humble his way. All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness, for 

those who keep His covenant and His testimonies. For Thy name's sake, O Lord, pardon my 

guilt, for it is great. Who is the man that fears the Lord? Him will he instruct in the way that he 

should choose. He himself shall abide in prosperity, and his children shall possess the land. 

The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear Him, and He makes known to them His 

covenant. My eyes are ever toward the Lord, for He will pluck my feet out of the net. Turn 

Thou to me, and be gracious to me; for I am lonely and afflicted. Relieve the troubles of my 

heart, and bring me out of my distresses. Consider my affliction and my trouble, and forgive all 

my sins. Consider how many are my foes, and with what violent hatred they hate me. Oh guard 

my life, and deliver me; let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in Thee. May integrity 

and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for Thee. Redeem Israel out of all his troubles.

Have mercy on me, O God, according to Thy steadfast love; according to Thy abundant mercy 

blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my 

sin; for I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against Thee, Thee only, have 

I sinned, and done that which is evil in Thy sight, so that Thou art justified in Thy sentence and 

blameless in Thy judgment. Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother 

conceive me. Behold, Thou desirest truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in 

my secret heart. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter 

than snow. Fill me with joy and gladness; let the bones which Thou hast broken rejoice. Hide 

Thy face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and 

put a new and right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Thy presence, and take not Thy 

Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Thy salvation, and uphold me with a willing 

spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Thy ways, and sinners will return to Thee. Deliver me 

from blood-guiltiness, O God, Thou God of my salvation, and my tongue will sing aloud of 

Thy deliverance. O Lord, open Thou my lips, and my mouth shall show forth Thy praise. For 

Thou hast no delight in sacrifice; were I to give a burnt offering, Thou wouldst not be pleased. 

The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, Thou 

wilt not despise. Do good to Zion in Thy good pleasure; rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, then 

wilt Thou delight in right sacrifices, in burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings; then bulls 

will be offered on Thy Altar. 

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.
5-18

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia. Glory to Thee, O God. (3)

Lord, have mercy. (3)

(Insert and Chant the Daily Troparion here.)

O Theotokos, you are the true vine, that has put forth the fruit of life. We pray, O Lady, 

intercede together with the Apostles and all the saints, that mercy may be granted to our souls.

Blessed be the Lord God; blessed be the Lord from day to day, and may the God of our 

salvation prosper us, for He is our God, the God of salvation.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us. (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

O most holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us from our sins. Master, pardon our 

transgressions. Holy One visit and heal our infirmities, for Thy name's sake.

Lord, have mercy. (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as 

we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from 

the evil one. Amen.

(Insert and Chant the Daily Kontakion here.)

Lord, have mercy. (40)

Thou who at every season and every hour, in heaven and on earth art worshipped and 

glorified; O Christ our God, who art long-suffering, merciful and compassionate; who lovest 

the just and showest mercy upon the sinner; who callest all to salvation through the promise of 

blessings to come; O Lord, in this hour receive our supplications, and direct our lives 

according to Thy commandments. Sanctify our souls, hallow our bodies, correct our thoughts, 

cleanse our minds; deliver us from all tribulations, evil and distress. Compass us about with 

Thy holy Angels, that guided and guarded by them, we may attain to the unity of the faith and 

to the knowledge of Thine unapproachable glory, for Thou art blessed unto ages of ages. 

Amen.
5-19

Lord, have mercy. (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

More honorable than the Cherubim, and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim; 

without defilement you gave birth to God the Word; true Theotokos, we magnify you.

Through the prayers of our holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ, our God have mercy on us. Amen.

O God the Master, Father Almighty, O Lord Jesus Christ, the Only-begotten Son, and Thou, O 

Holy Spirit, one God-head, one Power, have mercy upon me a sinner, and according to Thy 

divine judgment save me, Thine unworthy servant; for blessed art Thou unto the ages of ages. 

Amen.

The Sixth Hour

O Come, let us worship God, our King. 

O Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ, our King and our God. 

O come, let us worship and fall down before Christ Himself, our King and our God.

Save me, O God, by Thy name, vindicate me by Thy might. Hear my prayer, O God; give ear 

to the words of my mouth. For insolent men have risen against me, ruthless men seek my life; 

they do not set God before them. Behold, God is my helper; the Lord is the upholder of my 

life. He will requite my enemies with evil; in Thy faithfulness put an end to them. With a freewill offering I will sacrifice to Thee; I will give thanks to Thy name, O Lord, for it is good. For 

Thou hast delivered me from every trouble, and mine eye has looked in triumph on my 

enemies.

Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not Thyself from my supplication. Attend to me, and 

answer me; I am overcome by my trouble. I am distraught by the noise of the enemy, because 

of the oppression of the wicked. For they bring trouble upon me, and in anger they cherish 

enmity against me. My heart is in anguish within me, the terrors of death have fallen upon me. 

Fear and trembling come upon me, and horror overwhelms me. And I say, "O that I had wings 

like a dove. I would fly away and be at rest; Yea I would wander afar, I would lodge in the 

wilderness, I would haste to find me a shelter from the raging wind and tempest." Destroy their 

plans, O Lord, confuse their tongues; for I see violence and strife in the city. Day and night 

they go around it on its walls; and mischief and trouble are within it, ruin is in its midst; 

oppression and fraud do not depart from its market place. It is not an enemy who taunts me -

then I could bear it; it is not an adversary who deals insolently with me - then I could hide from 

him. But it is you, my equal, my companion, my familiar friend. We used to hold sweet 

converse together; within God's house we walked in fellowship. Let death come upon them; let 

them go down to Sheol alive; let them go away in terror into their graves. But I call upon God; 

and the Lord will save me. Evening and morning and at noon I utter my complaint and moan, 

and He will hear my voice. He will deliver my soul in safety from the battle that I wage, for 
5-20

many are arrayed against me. God will give ear, and humble them, He who is enthroned from 

because they keep no law, and do not know God. My companion stretched out his hand against 

his friends, he violated his covenant. His speech was smoother than butter, yet war was in his 

heart; his words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords. Cast your burden on the 

Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never permit the righteous to be moved. But Thou, O 

God, wilt cast them down into the lowest pit; men of blood and treachery shall not live out half 

their days. But I will trust in Thee.

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, who abides in the shadow of the Almighty, will 

say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust." For He will deliver 

you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence; He will cover you with His 

pinions, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and buckler. You 

will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks 

in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten 

thousand at your right hand; but it will not come near you. You will only look with your eyes 

and see the recompense of the wicked. Because you have made the Lord your refuge, the Most 

High your habitation, no evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent. For He will give 

His angels charge of you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, 

lest you dash your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and the adder, the young lion 

and the serpent you will trample under foot. Because he cleaves to Me in love, I will deliver 

him; I will protect him, because he knows My name. When he calls to Me, I will answer him. I 

will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, 

and show him My salvation.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia. Glory to Thee, O God. (3)

(Insert and Chant the Daily Troparion here.)

As there is no boldness in us because of the multitude of our sins, O Virgin Theotokos, 

intercede with the Son whom you have borne, for the entreaty of a mother has great power to 

win the favor of the Master. Despise not, O all venerable Lady, the prayers of sinners, for He 

who took upon Himself to suffer for our sake is merciful and strong to save. Let Thy tender 

mercies, O Lord, speedily go before us, for we are become exceeding poor. Help us, O God of 

our salvation, for the glory of Thy name; O Lord, deliver us and purge away our sins, for Thy 

name's sake.

Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us. (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.
5-21

O most holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us from our sins. Master, pardon our 

transgressions. Holy one, visit and heal our infirmities, for Thy name's sake.

Lord, have mercy. (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as 

we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from 

the evil one. Amen.

(Insert and Chant the Daily Kontakion here.)

Lord, have mercy. (40)

Thou who at every season and every hour, heaven and on earth, art worshipped and glorified; 

O Christ our God, who art longsuffering, merciful and compassionate; who lovest the just and 

showest mercy upon the sinner; who callest all to salvation through the promise of blessings to 

come; O Lord, in this hour receive our supplications, and direct our lives according to Thy 

commandments. Sanctify our souls, hallow our bodies, correct our thoughts, cleanse our 

minds; deliver us from all tribulations, evil and distress. Compass us about with Thy holy 

Angels, that guided and guarded by them, we may attain to the unity of the faith and to the 

knowledge of Thine unapproachable glory, for Thou art blessed unto ages of ages. Amen.

Lord, have mercy. (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

More honorable than the Cherubim, and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim; 

without defilement you gave birth to God the Word; true Theotokos, we magnify you!

Through the prayers of our holy Fathers, O Lord Jesus Christ, our God have mercy on us. 

Amen.

O God, the Lord of hosts, and Author of all creation, who in Thine ineffable tender mercy hast 

sent down Thine Only-begotten Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, for the salvation of our kind, and 

through His Holy Cross hast torn up the handwriting of our sins and thereby triumphed over 

the princes and dominions of darkness; do Thou, O Master, who lovest mankind, accept these 

prayers of thanksgiving and supplication even from us sinners, and deliver us from every 

deadly and dark transgression and from all the visible and invisible enemies that seek to do us 

harm. Nail our flesh with the fear of Thee, and let not our hearts incline to evil words or 

thoughts, but wound our souls with Thy love, that ever gazing upon Thee, guided by Thy light 
5-22

and beholding Thee, the eternal Light that no man may approach, we may send up unceasing 

praises and thanks unto Thee, the Father without beginning, together with Thine Only-begotten 

Son and Thy most holy, good, and life-giving Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen.

The Typika

Reader: Through the prayers of our holy fathers, Lord, Jesus Christ our

God, have mercy upon us. Amen.

People: Lord, have mercy. (3)

Bless the Lord, O my soul! Blessed art Thou, O Lord. Bless the Lord, O my soul! And all 

that is within me, bless His holy Name! Bless the Lord, O my soul! And forget not all His 

benefits. Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases! The Lord is 

compassionate and merciful, long-suffering and of great goodness. Bless the Lord, O my soul! 

Blessed art Thou, O Lord.

Reader: Lord, have mercy. (3)

People: Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

Praise the Lord, O my soul! I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my 

God while I have being. Put not your trust in princes, in sons of men in whom there is no 

salvation. When his breath departs he returns to his earth: on that very day his plans perish. 

The Lord will reign forever; Thy God, O Zion, to all generations.

Now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Only-begotten Son and Immortal Word of God, Who for our salvation didst will to be 

incarnate of the holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary; Who without change didst become 

man and was crucified. O Christ our God, trampling down death by death; who art one of the 

Holy Trinity, Glorified with the Father and the Holy Spirit: Save us!

Reader: Lord have mercy. (3)

People: In Thy Kingdom remember us, O Lord, when Thou comest in Thy Kingdom!

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled.
5-23

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

Blessed are the peace makers, for they shall be called the sons of God.

Blessed are they that are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of 

heaven.

Blessed are you when men shall revile you and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil 

against you falsely, for my sake.

Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven!

Come, let us worship and fall down before Christ, Who didst rise from the dead, O Son of God, 

save us who sing to Thee: Alleluia!

(Insert and Sing the Resurrectional Troparion in the tone of the week.)

People: Holy God! Holy Mighty! Holy Immortal, have mercy on us! (3)

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Now and ever, and unto ages of 

ages. Amen. Holy Immortal! Have mercy on us!

Holy God! Holy Mighty! Holy Immortal! Have mercy on us!

(Insert and Chant The Prokeimenon and the Epistle of the Day Here.)

Reader: The reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the __________.

People (after the Epistle is finished): Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia!

Some Orthodox traditions require a specific blessing for a member of the laity to publicly read 

the Gospel in the midst of a Church service. The Orthodox Chaplain who supervises this Lay 

Leader Program extends his blessing for you to do so. Do not chant or intone the Gospel from 

the front of the group but rather read it in a normal speaking-voice at your place.

Reader: The reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. __________.

People: Glory to Thee, O Lord, glory to Thee!

(Insert and Read the Gospel of the Day Here)
5-24

When the Gospel reading is completed, exclaim once more:

People: Glory to Thee, O Lord, glory to Thee!

Reader: Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto 

ages of ages. Amen.

Remember us, O Lord, when Thou comest into Thy Kingdom. Remember us, O Master, when 

Thou comest into Thy Kingdom. Remember us, O Holy One, when Thou into Thy Kingdom. 

The heavenly choir sings to Thee, and cries: Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Hosts; heaven and 

earth are full of Thy glory. Come unto Him and be enlightened, and your faces shall not be 

ashamed. The heavenly choir sings to Thee, and cries: Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Hosts; 

heaven and earth are full of Thy glory. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy 

Spirit. The choir of holy Angels and Archangels, with all the Powers of heaven, sing Thy 

praises and do cry: Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Hosts; heaven and earth are full of Thy 

glory. Now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

People: I believe in one God, Father, Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and of all things 

visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of 

the Father before all ages; Light of Light, true God of true God, begotten, not created, of one 

essence with the Father, through Whom all things were made. Who for us men and for our 

salvation came down from heaven and was incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and 

became man. He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried; And He 

rose on the third day, according to the Scriptures. He ascended into the heaven, and is seated at 

the right hand of the Father; And He will come again with glory to judge the living and dead. 

His kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Creator of life, 

Who proceeds from the Father, Who together with the Father and the Son is worshipped and 

glorified, Who spoke through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. 

I confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the 

life of the age to come. Amen.

Reader: O God, remit, pardon and forgive our sins, whether voluntary or involuntary, 

whether by words or deeds, whether in knowledge or ignorance, whether by day or night, 

whether in mind or thought; forgive us all these, for Thou art good and lovest mankind.

People: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will 

be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our 

trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but 

deliver us from the evil one. Amen.

(Insert and Sing the Resurrectional Kontakion in the tone of the week here.)

People: Steadfast Protectress of Christians constant advocate before the Creator: Despise not 

the entreating cries of us sinners, but in your goodness come speedily to those who call on you 

in faith. Hasten to hear our petition and to intercede for us, O Theotokos, for you always 

protect those who honor you.
5-25

Reader: Lord, have mercy. (12)

All-holy Trinity, Mighty one in essence, Kingdom undivided, origin of all good things, be 

graciously inclined also to me, a sinner. Establish me; give understanding to my heart, and 

purge away all my vileness. Enlighten my mind, that I may glorify, sing praises, and adore 

Thee, and say:

People: One is Holy, One is the Lord, Jesus Christ, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Blessed be the Name of the Lord, henceforth and forevermore. (3)

Reader: Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto 

ages of ages. Amen.

I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes 

its boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us 

exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and he answered me. Look to Him, and be radiant; 

so your faces shall not be ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved 

him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and 

delivers them. O taste and see that the Lord is good! Happy is the man who takes refuge in 

Him! O fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him have no want. The young lions 

suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. Come, O sons, listen 

to me, I will teach you the fear of the Lord. What man is there who desires life, and covets 

many days, that he may enjoy good? Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking 

deceit. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are 

toward the righteous, and his ears toward their cry. The face of the Lord is against evildoers, to 

cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. When the righteous cry for help, the Lord 

hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and 

saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but the Lord delivers him 

out of them all. He kept all his bones; not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked; 

and those who hate the righteous will be condemned. The Lord redeems the life of his servants; 

none of those who take refuge in Him will be condemned.

People: It is truly meet to bless you, O Theotokos, ever blessed and most pure, and the 

Mother of our God. More honorable than the Cherubim, and more glorious beyond compare 

than the Seraphim: without defilement you gave birth to God the Word: true Theotokos, we 

magnify you.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. 

Amen. Lord, have mercy. (3)

Reader: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, through the prayers of Thy most pure mother; by the 

power of the honorable and life-giving Cross; and by the holy bodiless powers of heaven; of 

our Holy, Venerable and God-bearing Fathers; and of all Thy saints, have mercy on us.

People: Amen. Lord, have mercy. (3)

Everyone comes forward to venerate the Holy Cross and Icons.
6-1

SECTION SIX

GUIDE FOR JEWISH LAY LEADERS

Assignment as a Jewish Lay Leader

When possible, a Jewish Lay Leader should be trained and approved by a Jewish Chaplain. The 

Jewish Welfare Board, the Aleph Institute, and Pirchei Shoshanim can assist in training and 

certifying lay leaders. See the “Resources” section for contact information.

Jewish Lay Leaders must be cognizant that many in leadership will not have prior experience 

with their needs. A Jewish Lay Leader must plan ahead and clearly articulate needs and the 

reasons behind them well in advance. A large part of the job requires educating seniors and, 

often, the Command Religious Program team.

Jewish Lay Leaders need to remember that they may well come from a different religious 

background than their congregants. They should strive to meet the needs of their congregation 

while remaining true to their own tradition. This requires sensitivity, maturity, wisdom, and 

creativity. It is wise to seek counsel from a rabbi, preferably a Jewish chaplain, when seeking 

solutions.

Typical Responsibilities

The Jewish Lay Leader may, in accordance with individual knowledge level and comfort: 

• Lead all Jewish services.

• Deliver a sermon.

• Teach Jewish subjects.

The Jewish lay leader serves as a point of contact for the command for the ritual and cultural

needs of Jewish personnel aboard in the free exercise of religion.

Command Relationships

The Jewish lay leader serves as a point of contact for the command for the ritual and cultural 

needs of Jewish personnel.

Since the Jewish lay leader is the CO’s right-hand person for Jewish affairs, permission to attend 

to Jewish chapel needs should be readily forthcoming. 
6-2

Major Denominations

There are four major denominations of Judaism. Loosely described, from most to least 

religiously observant, they are:

 Orthodox

 Conservative

 Reconstructionist

 Reformed

For more information on each see the “Resources” section. It is important to note that there is a 

wide variety of practice within these four denominations. Many Jews reject denominational 

labels altogether and simply identify as “Jewish”.

Important Texts of Worship

Siddur: The Jewish prayer book. These set the order of the liturgy for Jewish prayer. One 

should be careful to have a siddur that meets the needs of the services you will lead. Some are 

only for Shabbat and Holy Days, while others may be weekday-only. Some may be 

denominational-specific.

Machzor: This is a prayer book for specific Holy Days. The most commonly used ones are for 

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, as on those days the liturgy changes dramatically. Machzors 

are also available for other major Holy Days.

Chumash: The Five Books of Moses. This is the cornerstone of the Jewish faith. Many 

versions will be broken into the weekly Torah readings, have commentary, and have the weekly 

Haftorah (selections from the prophets based on topic or time of year) portion. These are an 

excellent resource for Torah study.

TANAKH: The full Jewish written Bible. It is an acronym for:

Torah – (five Books of Moses) – Genesis to Deuteronomy

N’vee’eem (Prophets) – Joshua to Malachi

K’tu-veem (Writings) – Psalms to Chronicles

The TANAKH, while more inclusive than a Chumash, is often less useful as it rarely has 

commentary and often comes in an English-only print.

Haggadah: The order of the Seder – the ritual Passover meal.

Megillat Esther: The Book of Esther, read at Purim
6-3

Jewish Time

The Jewish concept of time is like a tightly wound spiral (visualize a compressed spring). There 

is a beginning and there will be an end, but each day of every year has a spiritual energy tied to 

that same day in all years past and future.

The Jewish calendar is a lunar calendar with a solar correction. This is why the holy days 

remain in their proper season, but the English dates change each year. Below is the Jewish 

calendar with some major holy days. Holy days of Torah (Biblical) origin are asterisked. The 

other days were ordained by our Sages. The list of holy days is not inclusive. It is also 

important to double-check the actual starting date of each holy day, as the Jewish “day” starts at 

sunset of the previous evening, (as in, “It was Evening and it was Morning, Day One.”

Seasons/Months/Holy Days

Season Jewish Month Holy Day/Festival

Fall Tishri Rosh Hashanah*

Yom Kippur*

Sukkot*

Shemini Atzeret* /Simchat Torah

Cheshvan

Winter Kislev Chanukah

Tevet

Shevat

Spring Adar Purim

Nisan Pesach*

Iyar

Sivan Shavuot*

Summer Tammuz

Av

Elul
6-4

Jewish Holy Days and Festivals

Note: All Jewish Days begin at sunset the evening before.

Shabbat: Shabbat is a day for rest, study, prayer, and feasting. It begins on Friday evening and 

lasts until Saturday evening. Many Jews observe work restrictions on the Shabbat. The most 

widely observed prayer service in the Jewish world is called “Kabbalat Shabbat”, or “Welcoming 

the Shabbat,” and falls on Friday evening.

Rosh Hashanah: Rosh Hashanah is a Torah (Biblical) holy day marking the Jewish New Year,

and it occurs on the first two days of the Jewish month of Tishri in the fall. It begins the Days

of Awe. During these 10 days, each Jew is urged to go through a thorough self-accounting and 

period of repentance. Many Jews observe work restrictions on these two days – therefore leave 

or special liberty should be granted when operationally feasible. The lay leader can help the 

congregation by reminding them to submit requests for accommodation well in advance of the 

holy days. Some observe only one day of Rosh Hashanah.

In addition to the prayer service (found in the Rosh Hashanah Machzor), the primary ritual 

observances are blowing of the Shofar (a ram’s horn) during the day and two festive meals 

each day. All needed supplies are available through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).

Yom Kippur: Yom Kippur is a Torah (Biblical) holy day and falls on the 10th of the month of 

Tishrei. It is the Day of Atonement, and serves as the climax of the Ten Days of Awe. It is the 

day on which G-d is most easily encountered in this world, especially when one prepares 

properly. The primary form of observance is a 25-hour fast from food and water, in addition to 

a long prayer service filled with confessions. One needs a Yom Kippur Machzor for the prayer 

services, as the service is unique.

Most Jews observe work restrictions on Yom Kippur. Leave or special liberty should be 

granted when operationally feasible. The lay leader can help the congregation by reminding 

them to submit requests for accommodation well in advance of the holy days. 

Sukkot: Sukkot is a Torah (Biblical) holy day, which begins on the 15th day of the Hebrew 

month of Tishri and, combined with Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, lasts for 9 days. 

Some Jews celebrate for 8 days. In Rabbinic literature, it is called “the time of our joy.” Many 

Jews observe work restrictions on the first two days of Sukkot and the two days of Shemini 

Atzeret and Simchat Torah. Leave or special liberty should be granted when operationally 

feasible. The lay leader can help the congregation by reminding them to submit requests for 

accommodation well in advance of the holy days.

The primary observances of Sukkot are:

 To dwell in a Sukkah (ritual hut)

 To shake the Four Species (Lulav/palm, Etrog/citron, Hadassah/myrtle, and 

aravah/willow).
6-5

The prayer service for Sukkot is similar to the other two “pilgrimage” festivals, Pesach and 

Shavuot. Any siddur with holy day services should have the Sukkot and Shemini Atzeret prayer 

service in it, although one may purchase a Sukkot Machzor. The main difference is in the body 

of the Shemoneh Esrei/Amidah prayer. 

Shemini Atzeret is a separate Torah holy day immediately following Sukkot. It is a special day given 

to celebrate the close relationship between G-d and the Jewish people. Because most Jews outside of 

Israel observe an additional day of the Holy Days, Shemini Atzeret actually falls on what would be 

the 8th and 9th days of Sukkot, and Simchat Torah is observed on the 9th day. For those who only 

observe 7 days of Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah are observed on the 8th day. 

Simchat Torah celebrates the annual cycle of completing the Torah reading. If your 

congregation is fortunate enough to have a Torah scroll one should take it out and dance with 

it. If there is a minyan, one should read the final few paragraphs of Devarim/Deuteronomy 

and the first few of Beresheit/Genesis.

Chanukah: Chanukah is a Rabbinic holy day lasting for eight days. It falls in the winter, 

beginning on the 25th of the Hebrew month of Kislev. It commemorates the re-consecration of 

the 2nd Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple) in Jerusalem following its desecration by the SyrianGreeks approximately 2200 years ago. 

The primary observance is lighting the menorah (Chanukah). If no menorah is available, tea 

lights or any other candles that will last at least around 45 minutes will suffice. Actual flame is 

highly preferable, and one should avoid having to blow them out. A lay leader must take 

precautions to ensure this is done safely in their specific environment. If actual flame is not 

possible, contact a rabbi for guidance. If the candles must be blown out, it is preferable that this 

be done by someone not Jewish. Almost all siddurim will have the prayers for lighting the 

menorah. Also, there is one addition in the prayer service during Shemoneh Esrei/Amidah for 

Chanukah, in the prayer of “Modeh Ani”/“I give thanks.”

There are no work restrictions for Chanukah

Purim: Purim is a Rabbinic holiday commemorating the Divine salvation of the Jewish people from 

genocide during the Babylonian exile just under 2400 years ago. It is a time of intense closeness to 

G-d, especially from the Diaspora/Exile. 

There are three primary observances: reading the Book of Esther (preferably from an actual scroll) 

ideally both in the evening and in the daytime, giving gifts of food to friends (Meshalach Manot), and 

giving money or food to the poor (Matanos L’evyonim). Additionally, many have the custom of 

dressing up in costume for the megillah reading and having a festive meal. While there are no work 

restrictions, many have the custom of drinking heavily on Purim. Special liberty is highly 

recommended for those who wish to observe in this manner. The purpose of both the drinking and 

the costumes are to lower one’s inhibitions with G-d.

Pesach (Passover): Pesach is a Torah (Biblical) holy day re-living the Exodus from Egypt, over 

3300 years ago. It is known in Rabbinic literature as “the time of our freedom.” It falls on the 15th

day of the Jewish month of Nisan (no relation to the auto manufacturer), and lasts for eight days 

(some observe only seven). 
6-6

The primary observances are the festive Seder meal, which requires four cups of kosher wine (or 

grape juice, if necessary), eating matzah, and retelling the Passover story. The Passover Haggadah 

provides an order for this service. For the remaining days of Passover, Jews are to avoid chometz 

(leavened products). Many Jews who do not keep kosher throughout the year strive to keep “kosher 

for Passover” during these holy days. 

There are both kosher for Passover Seder participant kits, Seder leader kits, and kosher for Passover 

sustainment rations available through the DLA. The Seder kits have everything needed for a kosher 

Seder. Normally orders should be placed before the Thanksgiving the year before. Many Jews 

observe work restrictions on the first and last days. Leave or special liberty should be granted when 

operationally feasible. The lay leader can help the congregation by reminding them to submit 

requests for accommodation well in advance of the holy days.

Shavout (Festival of Weeks): Shavuot is a Torah (Biblical) holy day that commemorates the 

Jewish people receiving the Torah on Mount Sinai, over 3300 years ago. In Rabbinic literature, it 

is called “the time of the giving of our Torah.” It falls on the 6th Day of the Hebrew month of 

Sivan, and lasts for two days (some observe only one). There is no primary observance outside 

of the prayer service. Many have the custom to up all night learning Torah. Many also have the 

custom to eat dairy foods on Shavuous. Many Jews observe work restrictions on Shavuous. Leave 

or special liberty should be granted when operationally feasible. The lay leader can help the 

congregation by reminding them to submit requests for accommodation well in advance of the holy 

days.

Basic Parts of a Service

There are four primary Jewish services: Ma’ariv (evening), Shachrit (morning), Mincha 

(afternoon), and Mussaf (additional service for Shabbat and Holy Days). 

All Jewish services have the “Shemoneh Esrei” or “Amidah” prayer as the centerpiece. This is 

preceded and followed by introductory and concluding prayers, Psalms, or songs. Evening and 

morning prayers add the “Shema” before the “Shemoneh Esrei.” Friday evening prayers are 

preceded by additional Psalms called Kabbalat Shabbat (Welcoming the Shabbat).

Jewish tradition holds that certain parts of a public service require a quorum, or “minyan” of ten 

Jewish men over bar-mitzvah. Many Jews count women towards the quorum, or disregard the 

requirement all together. A lay leader should consult their rabbi for specific guidance and be 

cognizant that members of the congregation may come from a tradition with a different 

understanding. In the guide below, an asterisk indicates prayers that traditionally require a minyan 

when said publicly.
6-7

Order for the Sabbath Evening Service

The most common Jewish service in the military is the Friday night Kabbalat Shabbat and 

Ma’ariv service. An example is below. Keep a Hebrew/English blend and a 

singing/reading/responsive reading blend that meets the needs and abilities of your congregation. 

Remember: Hebrew is preferred, but G-d understands English equally well.

Candle lighting 

Kabbalat Shabbat, Welcoming the Shabbat, begins here.

Yedid Nefesh – “Beloved of My Soul” 

Psalm 95

Psalm 96

Psalm 97

Psalm 98

Psalm 99

Psalm 29

L’kha Dodi, sing selected verses or all (on final verse, “bo’ee v’shalom”, it is customary to rise

and face the rear of the sanctuary and bow to symbolically greet the Sabbath bride)

Psalm 92. The congregation traditionally accepts the holiness of the Shabbat with this Psalm.

Ma’ariv, the Evening Service, begins here.

*Barkhu, the call to prayer, should be chanted in Hebrew. While standing facing the ark (or 

East), bend the knees on the word Barkhu, bow at the waist at Atah, and then stand straight. 

You may be seated following the response.

First paragraph - Hebrew or English Second paragraph - Hebrew or English

*Shema and V’ahavta – it is customary to cover one’s eyes when reciting this prayer as an aid 

to concentration.

V’ahavta – chant in Hebrew

Conclusion of the Shema; can be read silently

Emet v’Emuna, Hebrew or English chant Mi Kamokha, middle of page 181

Hashkivenu – read in Hebrew or English

V’sham’ru – chanted in Hebrew

*Chatzi Kaddish

Silent Shemoneh Esrei (Amidah) for Shabbat

Vayechulu – chanted together

*Kaddish Shalem
6-8

Kiddush for Shabbat Evening

Aleinu

*Mourner’s Kaddish

Yidgal or Adon Olam (Note: Adon Olam can be sung to nearly any tune).

Observance of the Sabbath and the Festival (Yom Tov)

If the first night of a Yom Tov (Passover, Shavuot, Sukkot or Shemini Atzeret) falls on Friday

night, begin the worship service with candle lightning, then skip to Psalm 92 and read it.

Continue as on other Friday nights, but use the Festival Shemoneh Esrei (Amidah) with 

Shabbat additions vice Sabbath Amidah. Do likewise with the Kiddush.

When the Shabbat occurs during the middle of Pesach or Sukkot (Chol HaMoed), first light

candles with blessings of the Sabbath only. Proceed directly to Psalm 92 and continue as 

normal. Use the regular Sabbath Shemoneh Esrei (Amidah), including the paragraph marked

“on Rosh Chodesh and Chol HaMoed add . . .” and read the appropriate words. Do the same

with the Kiddush.

Time for Sabbath Worship

Late Friday afternoon or early Friday evening is normally the best time to bring together the

Jewish community aboard. The Shabbat day extends from sundown Friday through sundown

Saturday.

Regardless of the time selected, gear the service and one Shabbat to last not more than a total

of 90 minutes. If holding prayer or discussion groups, try to limit these to 30-45 minutes, 

especially if being held during a workday.

Setup

As the Jewish Lay Leader, you should prepare for the service as follows:

 Set up sufficient chairs for all personnel.

 Orient the prayer service to the Ark (if available) or toward Jerusalem when possible 

(typically to the east in the ES).

 Cover up or remove all non-Jewish symbols.

 Set out prayer books, yarmulkes (kippot), and prayer shawls (tallit) as needed.

 Light the candles at the beginning of the Sabbath service, preferably before sunset. If 
6-9

service is held after sunset, consult your rabbi.

 Table with Kiddush cup, and sufficient smaller cups for attendees to join in Kiddush, 

challah (when available), challah board, and knife. Ensure challah is covered.

 Ensure the appropriate Siddur or Machzor is being used for the service.

Ordering Jewish Supplies

Determine what materials (prayer books, wine, etc.) are needed. Submit a list with resources

and prices to the command chaplain, XO, or supply officer as directed.

Quantities (Minimum Supply Aboard): 1 per anticipated participant

 Siddur (prayer book) including Shabbat and Holy Days prayers.

 Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur Machzor (note: there are both individual and combined 

versions. Ensure whatever versions you have cover both holy days). 

 Yarmulkes/kippot

 Tallit

 Bottle of kosher wine or kosher grape juice.

 Hebrew/English TANAKH or Chumash.

 Hebrew/English Megillat Esther (note: included in TANAKH and in some editions of 

Chumash). 

 Passover Haggadah (note: comes with DLA Seder kits)

At least one of:

 Chanukah candles (minimum 44 per year)

 Set of candleholders (or tea lights).

 Kiddush cup.

 Shofar (ram's horn).
6-10

 Yahrzeit (memorial candle or light).

 Knife and challah (bread) cover.

Prayers for the Dying

The following prayer may be said by or on behalf of the dying:

I admit before You, G-D, my G-d and the G-d of my ancestors, that my healing and my death 

are in Your Hands. May it be Your will that You grant me a complete healing. And if I 

should die, my death should be an atonement for all of my sins, errors, and transgressions 

before You. And grant me my portion in the Garden of Eden, and may I merit in the World to 

Come the hidden place of the righteous.

Recite the “Shema.”
7-1

SECTION SEVEN:

GUIDE FOR ISLAMIC LAY LEADERS

Introduction

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. 

In Islam, the lay leader is free to act in the same capacity as their civilian or military 

counterpart(s) since ordination is not a requirement. Muslims do not formally ordain religious 

leaders. Ordination is viewed as a distinct aspect of other religions and is rejected in Islamic 

Divine Law. Islam does not have a formal and separated clergy. There is no ordination in Islam 

for many reasons, but for the sake of explanation, two are illustrated.

1. Islam is best defined as being a way of life that includes beliefs and practices ordained by 

Allah (Almighty God) than mere “religion.” 

Therefore, Islam is complete in its knowledge and guidance. 

We read: “This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favor upon you, and 

have chosen for you Islam as your religion (expression of living).” (Qur’an 5:3)

Almighty God is the Preserver of this belief and guidance; and, through Divine Wisdom, 

imparted this information to selected Prophets and Messengers throughout the history of 

mankind. “Verily We: It is we who have sent down the Dhikr (i.e. Revelation, the Quran and 

Prophetic Guidance) and surely, we will guard it (from corruption).” (Qur’an 15:9)

The task of the prophets was to convey the message of Allah and provide a living example for 

people to follow; they are not responsible for converting people or compelling them in any way. 

The prophets did not establish a clerical order to defend and preserve an evolving belief system. 

The prophets were concerned with preserving established and clear Divine Truths and Practices 

with the understanding that Allah will only hold them responsible for conveying the message. 

Whoever received, understood and accepted the message from the Divine source, and maintained 

sincerity in communicating it, were encouraged to instruct others.

The Qur’an instructs: “Say, ‘Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger.’ But if you turn away, then 

upon him is his burden, and upon you is your burden. And if you obey him, you will be rightly 

guided. And the messenger is not responsible but for the plain delivery of the Message.” (24:55)

Also, “And obey Allah and obey the Messenger. But if you turn away, then Our Messenger 

is responsible only for the clear conveying of the Message.” (64:13)

Consequently, we understand that representing God’s message is built upon not innovating from 

what is revealed or conveyed authentically from Almighty God, and being sincere.
7-2

2. Seeking and attaining Divine Knowledge is a requirement of every Muslim. Therefore, the 

“calling” is given and commanded to every believer, male and female. In this regard, no 

individual feels singularly called or inspired because the responsibility to seek and increase 

in knowledge is shared by the entire Muslim community. The individual, after fulfilling this 

command of Almighty God, simply responds as a practical expression to support a need in 

his given organization or society. 

In fact, the first ayah (verse) revealed in the Qur’an is: “Read! In the name of your Lord, Who 

has created (all that exists); (Who) has created man from a clinging substance (in the wombs); 

Read! And your Lord is the most Generous, who has taught (the writing) by the pen. Who taught 

man that which he did not know.” (96: 1 - 5) 

Therefore, whoever attains proper and sufficient knowledge of Islam, with sincerity, and the 

ability to communicate it, may lead worship and teach others. However, evidently there are 

scholars and students of knowledge who surpass others in ability and status. Those individuals 

are respected and followed in their scholarship so far as their scholarship remains grounded in 

the revealed word of Almighty God (the Qur’an) and follows the example of Prophet 

Muhammad (his Sunnah), specifically, and prophetic guidance, in general (may the Peace and 

Blessing of Allah be upon all the prophets and messengers). 

Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) considered seeking knowledge obligatory upon every 

Muslim, male or female. His teachings included all with no exception. It is through attaining 

knowledge and acting on it with sincerity and humility that believers are elevated in spiritual 

status. The Qur’an reads: “Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who 

have been granted knowledge. And Allah is Well-Acquainted with what you do.” (58:11) 

For these two explained reasons, and many other specifics, Islam does not formally ordain its 

religious leaders. One with sufficient knowledge coupled with humility and sincerity is eligible 

to lead the Muslim community. While we cannot truly determine a candidate’s humility and 

sincerity, Islam required that we default to what can be measured- one’s knowledge.

Islamic Lay Leader Basic Knowledge

This section covers the foundational and requisite knowledge expected of an Islamic lay leader.

Foundational Knowledge includes understanding of:

1. The Five Pillars of Islam

2. The Six Article of Islamic Faith

3. The Fundamentals of Tawheed (Islamic/Prophetic Monotheism)

4. Islamic History

5. Fundamentals of Seerah
7-3

Obviously, there is much more, but the above is foundational. To function as an Islamic lay 

leader, one must understand the above along with the ability to communicate it to others, 

including the command religious ministries department and greater command.

The Islamic Lay Leader should have a practical knowledge of:

1. How to observe and lead al-Salat (five daily ritual prayers).

2. How to observe and lead Salat al-Jumu’ah (Friday Congregational Worship).

3. How to observe and lead Salat al-Eid for Eid al-Fitr (Holiday after Ramadan) and Eid alAdha (Holiday during Hajj).

4. The rules and practices of Saum (Fasting in Islam).

Islam is beliefs and laws, balanced and emphasized orthodoxy and orthopraxy, in which Allah 

and His Messenger (peace be upon him) have informed us what is halal (permissible) and what is 

haram (forbidden), moral and of good manners, acts of worship and how to interact with people, 

rights and duties, and scenes of the resurrection. 

Islam is based on five pillars which Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon 

him) has explained for us, when he said: “Islam is built upon five [pillars]: the testimony that 

there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; establishing salah 

(daily worship); paying the zakah (wealth to the poor and needy); Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) 

and fasting (the month of) Ramadan.” (Al-Bukhari)

Along with the Five Pillars of Islam, there are Six Articles of Faith. Faith in the sense of belief, is 

based on six principles, which were narrated by the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) (peace be upon him), 

when he questioned Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), who 

responded: “Faith means to believe in Allah, His angels, His Books, His Messengers, the Last 

Day, and the Divine Decree, both good and bad.” (Al-Bukhari).

No one is a Muslim due to ancestry, sacrament, race, national origin, or tribe; therefore, the 

matter of the Five Pillars of Islam and the Six Articles of Faith are not trivial or inconsequential 

issues. The Five Pillars of Islam and Six Articles of Faith are not recommendations or 

suggestions in Islam, if a Muslim rejects or denies any aspect thereof, he or she is no longer a 

Muslim in truth. 

It is imperative that the Islamic lay leaders thoroughly and soundly understand the basics of this 

creed and only preach, teach, and represent accordingly. ‘A’ishah, the Mother of the Believers, 

related that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever introduces something new 

into this matter of ours (Islam) that is not from it will have it rejected.” [Sahih Bukhari and 

Muslim] In another narration, it reads: “Whoever does an act (statement or deed) that is not in 

accordance with this matter of ours (from authentic Islamic sources) will have it rejected.” 

[Sahih Muslim]
7-4

The Five Pillars of Islam

Basis and Principles:

The First Pillar: al-Shahadatayn (the twofold testimony of faith)

“I testify that there is nothing worthy of worship, except Allah, and I testify that Muhammad is 

His Messenger.”

This means that one testifies that Allah alone is the Lord, Sovereign and Controller, the Creator 

and Provider. He affirms all His most beautiful names and the transcendent attributes that Allah 

has affirmed for Himself or that His Prophet affirmed for Him. He believes that Allah alone and 

no one or nothing else, is the Only One Who is deserving of worship, as Allah says:

“He is the Originator of the heavens and the earth. How can He have children when He has no 

wife? He created all things and He is the All-Knower of everything. 

Such is Allah, your Lord! Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), the 

Creator of all things. So worship Him (Alone), and He is the Wakeel (Trustee, Disposer of 

affairs) over all things” (Qur’an 6:101-102)

And one testifies that Allah sent His Messenger Muhammad (peace be upon him), and revealed 

to him the Qur’an, and commanded him to convey this way of life to all of mankind. He believes 

that loving Allah and His Messenger and obeying them are duties which are obligatory upon all 

of mankind, and that love of Allah can only be realized by following His Messenger (peace be 

upon him). Almighty God explains:

“Say (O Muhammad to mankind): ‘If you (really) love Allah, then follow me, Allah will love you 

and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful” (Qur’an 3:31)

The Second Pillar: Al-Salah (five times daily worship)

Almighty God has enjoined upon every sound, healthy and mature Muslim five worship times 

each day and night, which is performed in a state of purity (ablution), standing in awe before the 

Lord, out of thanks, for grace and blessings, asking of abundance, seeking forgiveness for sins, 

asking for nearness in Paradise and seeking refuge and distance from Perdition.

Allah has commanded all believers to guard strictly the observance of this worship, as God says:

“Guard firmly As-Salawaat (the five obligatory prayers) especially the middle Salah. And stand 

before Allah with obedience and attentiveness.” (Qur’an 2:238)

Also, concerning the daily worship, the Qur’an instructs:

“Verily, As-Salah (the prayer) is enjoined on the believers at fixed hours.” [Qur’an 4:103]

Because worship in Islam is prescribed daily and at the fixed times, the Islamic lay leader must 

advertise and publicize for command awareness and facilitation for the Muslims.
7-5

As a basis, Islam encourages co-operation, brotherhood/sisterhood and love, and Muslims are 

commanded to come together for worship, so that these virtues may be realized. Prophet 

Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Prayer in congregation is twentyseven times better and more rewarding than worship offered alone.” (Sahih Muslim)

Observing the daily worship is one of the many means by which Allah expiates or removes the 

sins and transgressions of people, Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon 

him) explained: “Do you not think that if there was a river at the door of the home of any one of 

you, and you were to bathe in it five times each day, would there be any dirt remaining?” They 

said, “No dirt would be left on him at all.” He said, “That is the likeness of the five daily prayers, 

by which Allah removes sins.” (Sahih Muslim)

The Third Pillar: Zakah (charity to the poor and needy)

In Arabic, the word Zakah means to purify and to cleanse. When a Muslim gives his wealth to 

the poor and needy with the intention of pleasing Almighty God, that act purifies one’s 

remaining wealth and the soul from stinginess and miserliness. It strengthens and increases the 

love between the rich and poor, removes hatred, and increases happiness in the Ummah (Muslim 

community). It is oft repeated in the Qur’an to offer worship and give to the poor and needy. 

“And perform As-Salah (Daily worship), and give Zakah, and whatever of good (deeds that 

Allah loves) you send forth for yourselves before you, you shall find it with Allah. Certainly, 

Allah is All-Seer of what you do” [Qur’an 2:110]

Because the believers are a brotherhood, and brotherhood is based on compassion, kindness, love 

and mercy, Allah has enjoined upon the Muslims zakah which is taken from the rich and given to 

the poor. Allah says:

“Take Sadaqah (alms) from their wealth in order to purify them and sanctify them with it, and 

invoke Allah for them. Verily, your invocations are a source of security for them” [Qur’an 

9:103]

Zakah is only obligatory for those who possess and maintain savings for one calendar year. The 

rate of zakah on “money” is one quarter of ten percent. If one is not able to save for one 

complete year, without spending from it, then he is not required to pay charity to the poor. The 

greater likelihood is that this one is eligible for charity from the Muslim community.

The Fourth Pillar: Saum (fasting) during Ramadan

Fasting, Saum in Islamic Law, means abstaining from things which break the fast, such as food, 

drink and intimacy, from the break of dawn until sunset, with the intention of observing the fast.

The relationship of patience to Islamic faith is like that of the head to the body. Muslims are 

commanded to observe compulsory fasting during the month of Ramadan, in order to draw 

closer to Allah, to avoid that which Allah has forbidden, to increase in patience, to bring our base 

selves under control, to compete in generosity and to demonstrate co-operation and mutual 

compassion. Allah prescribes in the Qur’an:
7-6

“O you who believe! Observing As-Saum (fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for 

those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqoon (pious).” [2:183]

Externally, one may consider that the month of Ramadan is simply about the physical act of 

fasting. In reality, the focus of the fast and Ramadan is to honor and internalize the Qur’an. The 

month of Ramadan is the month in which Allah revealed the Qur’an. For this reason, Allah made 

fasting the month of Ramadan obligatory upon every sane, mature Muslim, male and female. 

Allah says:

“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind and clear 

proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you sights 

(the new moon) month (of Ramadan), he must observe Saum (fasting) that month, and whoever 

is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Saum (fasts) must be 

made up] from other days. Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things 

difficult for you. (He wants that you) must complete the same number (of days), and that you 

must magnify Allah for having guided you so that you may be grateful.” (Qur’an 2:185)

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Every action of the son of Adam is multiplied, 

each good deed receiving a tenfold to seven hundredfold reward. Allah said, ‘Except for fasting, 

for it is done for Me and I will give a reward for it, for he gives up his desires and food for My 

sake.’” (Sahih Muslim)

The month of Ramadan is a very important and significant time in the life of every Muslim. The 

Islamic lay leader is required to explain the religious requirements of the fast and notify the 

command of the timing of the month, the fasting hours (which vary from region to region), and 

coordinate how to ensure that Muslims are accommodated on the work and duty days that they 

are fasting. Often, it is recommended to modify the work and PT schedule of the Muslim SVM 

so observances of strenuous activity are performed in the evening, if at all. Also, there should be 

an allowance after sunset for the breaking of fast and subsequent worship. If possible, the Islamic 

lay leader should seek guidance and assistance from an AD Islamic chaplain. 

The Fifth Pillar: Hajj (pilgrimage)

Allah has made it obligatory for every sane, adult Muslim who has the means, to visit His 

Ancient “House,” to circumambulate it and to perform all the rituals of Hajj as explained by

Allah and His Messenger. Allah says:

“And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka‘bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, 

those who can afford the expenses (for one’s conveyance, provision and residence); and whoever 

disbelieves [i.e. denies Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah), then he is a disbeliever of Allah], and Allah 

stands not in need of any of the ‘Al-Amin (mankind and all that exists).” (Qur’an 3:97) 

Allah has given the Muslims a Qiblah (direction of prayer) which they face when they perform 

(salah) and offer supplications (du’a’), wherever they may be. This qiblah is (the Ka’bah) in 

Makkah: “so turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid Al-Haraam (at Makkah). And where 

ever you are, turn your faces (in prayer) in that direction (Qur’an 2:144) 
7-7

Hajj is an occasion in which the unity of the Muslims, their strength and pride, are made 

manifest. For the Lord is One, the Book is one, the Messenger is one, the Ummah is one, their 

worship is one and their clothing is one.

The DOD has reinstituted the Hajj Program which assists in the performance of the Pilgrimage 

for AD DON SVM. This coordination is executed through the Navy Chief of Chaplain’s Office. 

The Islamic lay leader may serve as an excellent advocate for disseminating information and 

coordination concerning performing Hajj while serving on Active Duty.

The Six Articles of Faith

There are six tenets that one must believe, without any doubt, to be considered a Muslim. These 

six articles of faith are as follows:

1) Belief in the One True God: 

Islam emphasizes that God is One, in the absolute since, without anyone or thing sharing in that 

One Divinity, The Encompassing of all that exists, and God is Unique in every way. Only God, 

The Most Benevolent, has the right and is worthy of being worshiped.

2) Belief in His Angels:

The angels are creations of God. God, The Originator, created them from pure light. They are 

powerful, by God’s Permission, and always do precisely as they are commanded. By their very 

nature, they cannot disobey or rebel against God or God’s Commands.

God has revealed the names and responsibilities of some of the angels. A Muslim must believe in 

the existence of angels. Jabriil (Gabriel) and Mikaiil (Michael) are among the angels mentioned 

in the Qur’an. In fact, Gabriel is the angel commanded by God to deliver revelation to the 

Prophets and Messengers (peace be upon them all). Jabriil is also called Ruh al Qadoos (The 

Holy Spirit).

3) Belief in His Books:

Muslims must believe in all the original scriptures revealed by God to His Messengers in the 

Qur’an. When God, The Benefactor, revealed them, they were in their original forms, and the 

authentic word of God. The previously revealed scriptures mentioned in the Qur’an follows, in 

chronological order:

1. The Suhuf of Ibrahim (Peace be upon him) original Scrolls revealed to Abraham

2. The Torat of Musa (Peace be upon him) original Torah revealed to Moses

3. The Zaboor of Dawood (Peace be upon him) original Psalms revealed to David

4. The Injeel of ‘Isa (Peace be upon him) original Gospel revealed to Jesus

5. The Qur’an revealed to Muhammad (Peace be upon him) (remains in original form)
7-8

Concerning the acknowledged scriptures revealed before the Qur’an, which are represented at 

present in various languages, editions and versions, Muslims do not accept them to be an 

accurate representation of the original revealed text. According to the Qur’an, for various 

reasons, individuals and organizations distorted the original scriptures. These distortions 

occurred by way of additions and/or deletions of text or changes in the meaning and language. 

Although Muslims are required to believe that Almighty God revealed the previous books, the 

criterion by which they judge and seek guidance is the Qur’an and the authentic traditions of 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

4) Belief in His Prophets and Messengers:

The Prophets and Messengers were men who received guidance and revelations from God and 

were charged with conveyed it to mankind. Primarily, they were sent to mankind to direct and 

return them to the pure monotheism of Adam and Abraham (Peace be upon them), to 

demonstrate a living example of how to submit to God, and to call people to the true aim of lifesalvation. None of the Prophets and Messengers shared in, or were part of God’s Divinity. They 

were all human beings guided and assisted by the Creator. A Muslim must never invoke, 

supplicate, or seek mercy and forgiveness through them. All Prophets and Messengers taught 

that such acts are polytheistic, and takes one outside the fold of Islam. For this reason and others, 

the term “Muhammadanism” is a misnomer and insult that must not be attributed to Islam and 

Muslims.

From the appearance of the first humans on earth, Almighty God, The Guide of all, sent Prophets 

to them, and later, to people all over the world. A Muslim must believe in all of the Prophets and 

Messengers sent by God. God has mentioned, by name, some 25 of them in the Qur’an. Among 

those mentioned by name are Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, David, Zacharias, 

Jesus, and Muhammad (Peace be upon them all). 

In Islam, Muhammad (peace be upon him) has the distinction of being God’s final Messenger 

and the Seal of the Prophets. God says in the Qur’an that no Prophet or Messenger will come 

after him. 

To conclude, Islam teaches that throughout human history, every nation was sent a Prophet for 

their guidance. As time passed, corruption was introduced; so, instead of worshipping the One 

True God, false deities were worshipped along with Almighty God.

The Qur’an states: "And for every nation is a messenger. So, when their Messenger comes, it 

will be judged between them in justice, and they will not be wronged." (10:47) 

5) Belief in The Day of Judgment:

A Muslim must possess certain belief in the Day of Judgment with the physical resurrection of 

the body and the soul, by the Will and Power of Almighty God. Just as the Creator of all that 

exist, created us the first time, Allah will surely resurrect us from death to stand in perfect 

judgment. 
7-9

After the Day of Judgment, death will no longer be, and we will all exist eternally. On the Day of 

Judgment, everyone from the time of Adam (peace be upon him) until that time, will stand 

before the Creator and be questioned about their beliefs and deeds during the life of this world. 

The purpose of these questions will not be to inform Almighty God, because surely Allah knows 

all things. On the Day of Judgement, lying and deception will no longer be possible and we will 

bear witness for or against ourselves. Is Islam, Paradise and Hell are not metaphors, they are 

literal and actual places that currently exist and will unavoidably be the outcome for humankind 

after the Day of Judgment.

Almighty God’s Justice is comprehensive and absolute- everyone will be justly treated and no 

one will complain about unfairness of that day. Of note, no one will enter Paradise because of 

their good deeds alone, but by the Mercy and Grace of a Loving Creator.

6) Belief in Al-Qada wal-Qadr (Divine Knowledge/Decision and Decree):

In Islam, Allah (Almighty God) is known, primarily, by Divine Names and Attributes that are 

exclusively “His.” The Qur’an contains 99 such names. Almighty God is timeless; all is known 

without restriction to past, present, or future. From the perspective of temporal beings, we only 

know the past and experience the present. We do not know the future. And, from what we 

“know”, it may be forgotten or misconstrued. Divine knowledge is perfect, absolute and 

complete; everything created and the subsequent actions occur as a direct result of being created. 

Nothing happens in creation except by the Creator’s Power, Will, and Knowledge. While we are 

created with free-will, Almighty God knows the choices that we will make and the actions that 

we will choose. This knowledge is with God and we only become aware as events and 

circumstances transpire. For God not to possess advanced awareness and foreknowledge of all 

things, would indicate a deficiency- we seek refuge with Allah from such thoughts or beliefs.

Fundamentals of Tawhid (Islamic Prophetic Monotheism)

As previously discussed, Islam has 5 pillars. Essentially, the 1st pillar of Islam is Tawhid (along 

with the other 4: Salah, Zakah, Saum and Hajj). According to Islamic Law, tawhid is the pillar 

that takes one from disbelief in Islam, to belief in it. One cannot be a Muslim without correctly 

understanding and properly implementing this pillar. Fundamentally, from Adam to Muhammad 

(peace be upon them all), all prophets and messengers taught the message of Tawhid. Tawhid 

may be described as the true and interminable covenant that exists between Almighty God and 

mankind. What is the meaning of tawhid?

Tawhid, in Islamic Law, principally means: “To single out Allah Almighty alone for worship, 

love, and submission by complying with His commands and submitting to them.”

Allah says:

َوا ِحدٌ

ٰـهٌ

لَ

ِ

ُهُكْم إ

ٰـ

لَ

ِ

َوإ

ُم ﴿

اَّل ُهَو ال ار ْح َمٰـ ُن ال ار ِحي

ِ

ٰـهَ إ

لَ

ِ

ۖ اَّل ١٦٣﴾ إ

 

And your Ilâh (God) is One Ilâh (God Allah) there is none who has the right to be worshipped 

but He, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. (Qur’an 2:163) 
7-10

The most pervasive subject matter in the Qur’an is Tawhid, along with its consequences and

rewards.

Islamic History

To understand the history of Islam, one must first understand what the word Islam means. 

Obviously, Islam is an Arabic word. There is no exact translation of a single word in English that 

may properly convey what Islam means in Arabic. We need at least five English words: 

Surrender, Submission, Obedience, Sincerity, and Peace. Therefore, anyone who surrenders and 

submits their will and person to the One True God who created all, with willing obedience and 

sincerity, will attain peace of heart and conscience. A Muslim is simply one who follows this 

action of Islam and practices it. For this reason, all true prophets and messengers sent by 

Almighty God, and any person who followed or follows them is a Muslim. This was the message 

of Adam and all those sent by the Creator (peace be upon them all). Prophet Muhammad (peace 

be upon him) was the last of those sent by God with this message and way of life. Therefore, his 

prophetic mission didn’t usher in a new religion; it completed the message of Islam that was 

brought by all the previous prophets and messengers of God.

Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “I am the closest of the people to 

Jesus, the son of Mary, in this life and in the Hereafter.” It was said, “How is that, O Messenger 

of Allah?” The Prophet said, “The prophets are paternal brothers with different mothers. They 

have one religion and there was no other prophet between us (I and Jesus).” (Sahih Bukhari & 

Sahih Muslim)

Why is this way of life called Islam? All religions on earth are known by various names; either 

by the name of a certain person or a particular nation. Thus, Christianity is from Christ (peace be 

upon him); Buddhism is from, the Buddha; Zoroastrians is from their founder Zoroaster. Also, 

we have Hindus, which is taken from the region now known as India (Hindi). Correspondingly, 

Judaism is taken from a tribe known as Yehuda (Judah). This continues on from example to 

example. Except for Islam, which is not attributed to any specific person, region, or specific 

nation, rather its name refers to the meaning of the word itself (Islam). The implication is that the 

founding of this religion was and is not the work of a particular person for a particular nation, 

region or tribe. Rather its purpose, characteristics and function is demonstrated by the word 

Islam for all people on earth from the first human being to the last. Therefore, any and every 

person who accepts this attribute, whether from the past, present, or future, is Muslim. 

Fundamentals of Seerah

It is necessary for an Islamic lay leader to have fundamental knowledge of Seerah. What does the 

term ‘Seerah’ mean? Generally, it means, biography. So, Seerah of Prophet Muhammad (peace 

be upon him) means biography (life) of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). 

Allah created mankind for a clear and noble purpose and that purpose was and is to 

acknowledge, honor and worship the Creator alone, without sharing one’s devotion with any 

other entity. 
7-11

Allah says: 

“I have not created Jinn and mankind but in order that they should worship Me.” (Qur’an 51:56) 

In order to achieve this goal, prophets and messengers were sent to mankind as bringers of glad 

tidings, guidance and admonishment. The last of these prophets and messengers was Muhammad 

(peace be upon him) to whom Allah revealed the last of His Books- the Qur’an. 

Allah Says: 

“And We have sent down to you the Book in truth, confirming the Scriptures that came before it 

and (I am) Muhaymin (trustworthy in highness and a witness) over it.” (Qur’an 5:48)

Learning about Seerah does not suggest only reading a book; it involves contemplating, 

pondering, reflecting, and deriving lessons from it and applying those lessons in daily life. The

goal is to develop and maintain understanding and attachment to Prophet Muhammad (peace be 

upon him) so that he becomes the model for our lives and our approach to knowing and 

worshipping our Creator.

Allah has commanded us to know and follow Prophet Muhammad. There are over 50 verses in 

the Qur’an that tells us to take the Prophet as an example. For example: “Indeed in the 

Messenger of Allah you have a good example to follow for him who hopes in (the meeting with) 

Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much.” (Qur’an 33:21)

There has been no other person in human history whose life has been documented in more detail 

than Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Seerah encompasses the entirety of the life of 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It includes not only his life after prophethood, but also 

before. To fully appreciate the totality of his life and to understand the circumstances in which he 

was born, the conditions in Makkah before his birth are also studied.

For the Muslim, studying and understanding Seerah is an important way to increase one’s love for 

the Prophet. There are no other ways as effective and as powerful to increase our love for the 

Prophet than by studying his life and times. One sign of loving someone is to want to know more 

about that person. It is a circle – the more we study, the more we love, the more we love, the more 

we study. 

Understanding the Seerah also helps us understand the Qur’an. The Qur’an is a very profound 

book and it cannot be understood without context. Without context, we cannot appreciate the 

Qur’an. For example, let us look at the following verse: “Your lord has not abandoned you nor 

has he shown you any harshness.” Qur’an (93:3)

We will not truly understand this verse until we study the Seerah. When and why was it 

revealed? Studying the Seerah answers those questions so that the proper context and exegeses 

of the verse may be supported. The Seerah raises our hopes, lifts our spirits and blesses us with 

optimism. By studying the Seerah, we understand and internalize what the believing generations 

before us suffered and endured in the way of faith. The Seerah teaches not only their successes 

and hardships, but the methodology of faith they demonstrated in good times and bad. 
7-12

In the Qur’an, Allah explains to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): 

“We are going to recite to you the stories of the previous prophets in order that your hearts attain 

affirmation.” (11:120) 

Accordingly, the stories of the earlier prophets were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be 

upon him) and it increased in him optimism and eman (faith). Then, how about us? By studying 

and understanding the Seerah we reap the same benefits. 

The Seerah, in and of itself, is one of the greatest indications that Prophet Muhammad (peace be 

upon him) was, without any doubt, the Messenger of Allah and is indispensable to understand 

the Qur’an and Islam. As Ibn Hazm Al-Andalusee (d. 1064) said, "If RasulAllah (Prophet 

Muhammad peace be upon him) was only given the miracle of his seerah, and nothing else, then

he would not need anything else to prove to everyone that he is a messenger of Allah." We learn 

from the Seerah that some of the Sahabah (Companions) would see RasulAllah (peace be upon 

him) and would say, "I knew his face was not the face of a liar." Another thing that we learn 

from the Seerah that is useful to illustrate the impact of the Seerah in understanding and teaching 

Islam, is the story of when his son Ibrahim (Abraham) died at the young age of a year or so. 

Only a parent can understand the pain of losing a child, especially when the child grows and 

advances to a year and pass away. This incident caused tears to flow, but Prophet Muhammad 

(peace be upon him) remained composed and faithful. At this moment, Allah revealed the verse:

“Muhammad is not the father of any man among you, but he is the messenger of Allah and the 

Seal of the Prophets; and Allah is ever Aware of all things.” (Qur’an 33:40)

On that day, the day of Ibrahim’s death, the sun eclipsed. Seeing the eclipse, some of his 

companions said: "Even the sun and the moon are crying because of the death of the son of the 

Prophet (peace be upon him)." The Prophet (peace be upon him) could have easily said, "Yes, 

even the sun is crying because my son died today!" He could have used this event as proof to 

show people that he was in fact that important and the messenger of Allah. Instead, Prophet 

Muhammad (peace be upon him) called the people to the masjid (mosque) and delivered a 

khutbah (sermon). He said: "The Sun and Moon are miracles of Allah’s creation. They do not 

eclipse because of the death or birth of a person." You see, he wasn't sent to call others to 

worship him; his duty was to proclaim the message of Allah (Almighty God), to worship Allah 

alone, and to demonstrate to all of humanity how to worship God alone. Furthermore, Prophet 

Muhammad endured many similar hardships throughout the 23 years of his mission- most of his 

personal sorrows are not mentioned or detailed in the Qur’an.

Islamic Calendar

The Islamic calendar is known as the Hijri calendar. It commenced with the Hijra (Divinely 

ordained migration) of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Makkah to Yathrib (now 

known as Madina) in year 622 CE. The twelve-month year is based on a purely lunar cycle of 

354 days. Being purely lunar, as opposed to solar or luni-solar, the Hijri year is shorter than the 

Gregorian year by about 11 days. The months in the Hijri year are not related to seasons, which 

is a product of the solar cycle. This means that important Muslim festivals, which always fall in 

the same Hijri month, will occur in different seasons. For example, the Hajj, Ramadan and New 
7-13

Year will take place in the summer, winter, spring, and fall. After a roughly 33-year cycle, the 

lunar months will complete and repeat.

The Hijri calendar was introduced in 638 (CE) by Umar ibn Al Khattab, may Allah be pleased 

with him, a close companion of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the second Khalifa 

of the Muslim Ummah. “Khalif Umar was motivated to synchronize the Muslim Ummah as it 

was expanding and various dating systems were in use throughout the Muslim world.

Umar consulted with other companions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) concerning 

the starting date of the new Muslim chronology. After various suggestions, it was agreed that the 

most fitting reference point for the Islamic calendar was the Hijra. The actual starting date for 

the calendar was chosen based on counting backwards to be the first day of Muharram, the first 

month of the year of the Hijra.

The Hijra was one of the most central and significant events of the early Muslim community. It 

provided safety and security and led to the foundation and establishment of the first Muslim citystate, a turning point in Islamic and world history. To Muslims, the Hijri calendar has deeper 

religious and historical significance than simply recording time and dating religious events and 

ceremonies. 

On the advent of the 15th century Hijri, 38 years ago, a Muslim scholar wrote:

"It is indeed a unique occasion to ponder that the Islamic Era did not start with the victories of 

Muslim wars, nor with the birth or death of the Prophet nor even with the Revelation of the Holy 

Qur’an itself. It starts with Hijra, or the sacrifice for the cause of Truth and for the preservation 

of the Revelation. It was a divinely inspired selection. Almighty Allah wanted to teach man that 

struggle between Truth and Evil is eternal!

The Islamic year reminds Muslims every year not of the pomp and glory of Islam but of its 

sacrifice, and prepares them to do the same. All the events of Islamic history, especially those 

that took place during the life of the Noble Prophet and afterwards, are quoted in the Hijra

calendar era. But our calculations in the Gregorian calendar keep us away from those events and 

happenings, which are pregnant with admonitory lessons and instructions. And this 

chronological study is possible only by adopting the Hijra calendar to indicate the year and the 

lunar month in line with our cherished traditions.”

The use of the Hijra calendar with 12 (purely) lunar months without intercalation is a Divine 

command, as the following verses of the Qur’an explains: “They ask you [O Muhammad] about 

the new moons. Say, ‘They are measurements of time for the people and for Hajj’...” (Qur’an 

2:189) Furthermore, Allah says: “Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] 

months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, 

four are sacred. That is the correct religion, so do not wrong yourselves during them...” (Qur’an 

9:36)

For religious reasons, the beginning of a Hijra month is marked not only by the start of a new 

moon, but also by physically sighting the crescent moon in the eastern horizon. The Hijri 

calendar consist of twelve months which are as follows, with significant events and observances 

noted:
7-14

Hijri Month Holidays, Event, and Observances

(1) Muharram

(29 -30 days long)

Muharram and Ashoora:

Muharram is the first month of the Hijri calendar and fasting in it is 

highly desired and encouraged, especially the tenth day, Ashoora. The 

New Year is anticipated but is not “celebrated” as the New Year is 

celebrated in other calendars. The focus during the Islamic New Year is 

prayer, fasting and reflection. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) 

was asked which prayer is better after the obligatory prayers. He 

replied: “Prayer in the middle of the night.” Then, he was asked, which 

fast is better after Ramadan? He said: “Fasting in the month of 

Muharram.” (Sahih Muslim) This Hadith clearly indicates the 

importance of fasting in Muharram. The Prophet (peace be upon him) 

specifically emphasized the fast on the tenth day, Ashoora. The word 

“Ashoora” is derived from Ashara, which means ten. The observation 

of fasting on this day dates to Prophet Musa Bin Emran (Moses) (peace 

be upon him). Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him), a close 

companion of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) narrated: After 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated to Madinah, he 

found Jews fasting the day of Ashoora. Because he and others fasted 

this day in Makkah, he inquired as to why they did so. They (Jews) 

replied that it was a good day, the day which Allah delivered Prophet 

Musa (Moses) (upon him be peace) and his followers from their 

enemy. Out of thankfulness, Musa (upon him be peace) fasted that day. 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) responded: “I have more 

right to Musa than you. He continued to fast that day and commanded 

the believers to fast.” (Bukhari and Muslim) The Prophet (peace be 

upon him) taught regarding fasting on the day of Ashoora: “It expiates 

the sins of the preceding year.” (Muslim) The day of Ashoora is the 

day when Musa and his followers were freed from Pharaoh and it was 

in the sacred memory of this great event that the Muslims observe 

fasting. Fasting in Muharram, and specifically on Ashoora, remains a 

highly recommended fast that many Muslims will observe.

(2) Safar

 (29 -30 days long)

Fasting on every Monday and Thursday and/or the 13-15 of the lunar 

calculated days. Yaum al-Jumu’ah (Congregational worship on 

Fridays).

(3) Rabi-ul-Awwal

 (29 -30 days long)

Maulid al Nabi (Birthday of Prophet Muhammad)12th Rabi-ul-Awwal:

This day is remembered as the Birthday of Prophet Muhammad (peace 

be upon him). There are no special prayers or religious services 

associated with this day, but many Muslims use this day to talk about 

the Prophet, his life and example. For some, it is a special time to 

express their love for Prophet Muhammad and it is celebrated with 

varying degrees of enthusiasm throughout the Muslim world and 

wherever Muslims live. Some people criticize it because it has no 
7-15

sanction in the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Neither he, nor his companions 

celebrated his birthday or the birthday of any prophet. Prophet 

Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Do not exaggerate my 

praises as the Christians have done with the son of Mary. Verily, I am 

only a servant, so refer to me as the servant of Allah and his 

messenger.” (Sahih Bukhari)

(4) Rabi-ul-Akhir

 (29 -30 days long)

Fasting on every Monday and Thursday and/or the 13-15 of the lunar 

calculated days. Yaum al-Jumu’ah (Congregational worship on 

Fridays).

(5) Jamadi-ulAwwal

 (29 -30 days long)

Fasting on every Monday and Thursday and/or the 13-15 of the lunar 

calculated days. Yaum al-Jumu’ah (Congregational worship on 

Fridays).

(6) Jamadi-ul-Akhir

(29 -30 days long)

Fasting on every Monday and Thursday and/or the 13-15 of the lunar 

calculated days. Yaum al-Jumu’ah (Congregational worship on 

Fridays).

(7) Rajab

 (29 -30 days long)

27th Rajab (Al Isra’ wa Ma’raj): The miraculous Night Journey of 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Makkah to Jerusalem 

and then his Ascension to Paradise occurred in the year 620 C.E. 

The event of Al Isra wa Ma’raj is mentioned briefly in the Qur’an: 

“Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-Haram 

(Makkah) to al-Masjid al-Aqsa (Jerusalem), whose surroundings We 

have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the 

Seeing.” (17:01)

The various hadith literature offers more details of this amazing event. 

Muslims remember this day as a day of great miracle and honor. On the 

eve of the 27th of Rajab, gatherings are held in the mosques and homes 

to remember the event and the whole story is narrated by Imams and 

scholars in lectures. 

(8) Sha’ban

 (29 -30 days long)

The month of Sha’ban may be considered a preparation for Ramadan, 

Muslims are encouraged to voluntarily fast many days in it. 

Osama bin Zaid narrated: “I said, O messenger of Allah: I haven’t 

observed you fasting in any month as I have witnessed you fasting in 

Shaban?” He (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “It is a month the 

people neglect between Rajab and Ramadan, and in that monthSha’ban- the deeds of the people are raised to the Lord of mankind, so I 

love to be fasting while my deeds are raised.” (Sahih al-Nisa’)

(9) Ramadan

 (29 -30 days long)

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Hijri calendar and Muslims are 

commanded to observe the entire month in compulsory fasting. 

Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and the entire month is 

blessed. This month is spent in fasting to honor the revelation of the 

Qur’an. The Qur’an reads: "Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent 
7-16

down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (signs) for guidance 

and judgment (between right and wrong)."(2:185) 

During the month of Ramadan, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon 

him) received the first revelations of the Qur’an. From that point, he 

continued to receive revelation and began his prophetic mission for 23 

years. Ramadan is thus a month dedicated to self-reflection, discipline 

and self-control with the aim of maintaining and incorporating those 

qualities into one’s being for life- each year improving upon the last.

‘Lailat ul-Qadr or 'Night of Decree/Power':

'Lailat ul-Qadr' or 'Night of Decree/Power' is a very important 

occasion in the history of Islam and the world. It is the exact night 

during Ramadan when the first revelations were given to Prophet 

Muhammad (peace be upon him). Allah says: 

"We have indeed revealed this (message) in the Lailat ul-Qadr or Night 

of Power. And what will explain to thee what the Night of Power is? 

The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come 

down the angels and the (Ruh) spirit by God's permission, on every 

errand: Peace! This continues until the rise of Morn." (Qur’an 97:1-5) 

Also, Allah says about this powerful night: Ha. Mim. By the book that 

makes things clear. We sent it down during a blessed night. For We 

(ever) wish to warn (against evil). In that (night) is made distinct every 

affair of wisdom, by command, from Our Presence. For We (ever) send 

(revelations), as a mercy from Thy Lord: for He hears and knows (all 

things). (Qur’an 44:1-6) 

Concerning this night, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, 

"Anyone who stays awake for Lailat ul-Qadr with belief and for the 

pleasure of Allah, all his previous sins will be forgiven." (Sahih 

Bukhari and Muslim) 

Aisha, the wife of the Prophet (peace be upon him) asked: “What 

should we supplicate to Allah on that night?” 

He said to me: Say: "O Allah! You are forgiving and you love to 

forgive, so I implore you to forgive me.”

As far as determining the Night of Power (Lailat ul Qadr) is 

concerned, it is authentically reported to be during one of the odd 

numbered nights during the last ten nights of Ramadan, i.e. 21st, 23rd, 

25th, 27th or 29th. Therefore, devotion increases even more during the 

last nights of Ramadan.

(10) Shawwal

 (29 -30 days long) Eid ul-Fitr: The Festival of Breaking the Fast of Ramadan.

 

After the month of Ramadan concludes, on the first day of the 10th 

month, Muslims all over the world celebrate Eid ul Fitr. This is one of 

only two major holidays in Islam. The holiday of Eid ul Fitr starts early 
7-17

after sunrise with Salat al-Eid (Holiday worship). After Salat al Eid, a 

sermon is delivered by the Imam and the people greet and congratulate 

each other. Generally, the rest of the holiday is spent privately with 

families and friends. The significance of Eid al-Fitr is that it is a day of 

thanksgiving to Almighty God for the opportunity to live, benefit, and 

enjoy the blessing of the month of Ramadan and completing the fast. 

Many Muslims will fast for six days in Shawwal.

Prophet Muhammad explained: “The fast of Ramadan is like observing 

ten months of fasting. Fasting six days in Shawwal is like observing 

two months of fasting. This together is like fasting perpetually 

throughout the year (in reward).” (Sahih Khuzaymah)

(11) Dhul Qa’dah

 (29-30 days long)

Fasting on every Monday and Thursday and/or the 13-15 of the lunar 

calculated days. Yaum al-Jumu’ah (Congregational worship on 

Fridays). 

(12) Dhul-Hijjah

 (29 -30 days long)

The Hajj (Pilgrimage) 8

th

-12th Dhul-Hijjah

Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah, is the largest annual gathering 

of people in the world and one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The acts of 

worship performed during Hajj all originated with Prophet Ibrahim 

(Abraham- peace be upon him) and his family. The Hajj is compulsory 

for every Muslim who is sane, mature, and physically and financially 

able, at least once in a lifetime. The Hajj is not simply an expression of 

worship; it teaches and exemplifies unity amongst people from all 

ethnicities and cultures at one place to and for the praise and worship 

of Almighty God, and internalizing the true concept of love and 

devotion. Hajj takes place about 70 days after Ramadan in the month of 

Dhul Hijjah, which is named after the Hajj. The Hajj is better 

understood by knowing its origin, acts and the rituals performed. 

The Origin of the Masjid (Mosque) in Makkah and Hajj: 

The history of Al-Masjid al-Haraam (the Sacred Mosque in Makkah) 

dates back to its founding at the time of Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son 

Ismaeel (Ishmael), peace be upon them both. This is the first House (of 

worship) that was built for people on earth, as Almighty God says in 

the Qur’an: 

“Verily, the first House (of worship) appointed for mankind was that at 

*Bakkah (Baca or Makkah), full of blessing, and a guidance for alAlameen (mankind and jinn).” [3:96]. (Bakkah or Baca is an antient 

name for Makkah that was used in previous revelations from Almighty 

God. Both names are used in the Qur’an.)

Abu Dharr (a companion of the prophet) said: “I asked the Messenger 

of Allah (peace be upon him) about the first masjid to be built for 
7-18

people on earth. He said, ‘Al-Masjid al-Haram (in Makkah).’ I asked, 

‘Then which?’ He said, ‘Al-Masjid al-Aqsa [in Jerusalem].’ I asked, 

‘How long between them?’ He said, ‘Forty years. So, wherever you are 

when the time for prayer comes, then pray.” (Sahih Bukhari & Sahih 

Muslim)

Allah says: “And (remember) when We Guided Ibrahim to the site of 

the (Sacred) House (the Ka’bah at Makkah) (saying): ‘Associate not 

anything (in worship) with Me, and sanctify My House for those who 

circumambulate it, and those who bow and make prostration.” (22:26) 

Also, Allah reminds: “And (remember) when Ibrahim (Abraham) and 

(his son) Ismaeel were raising the foundations of the House (the 

Ka‘bah), (saying), ‘Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us. Verily, 

You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower’” (2:127)

After Prophet Ibrahim (upon him be peace) and the construction of the 

Ka’bah, his progeny of the prophets and messengers of Allah, along 

with those who believed in and followed them, were commanded and 

performed the pilgrimage to Makkah. Allah says:

“...And Hajj to the House is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those 

who can afford the expenses; and whoever disbelieves [i.e., denies 

Hajj, then he is a disbeliever of Allah], then Allah stands not in need of 

any from His creation.” [Qur’an 3:97]

After the completion of the Ka’bah, Allah commanded Ibrahim (peace 

be upon him): 

“And proclaim to mankind the Hajj (pilgrimage). They will come to 

you on foot and on every lean camel, they will come from every deep 

and distant (wide) mountain highway (to perform Hajj).” (Qur’an 

22:27)

Concerning this verse, Ibn Abbas said, “When Allah commanded 

Prophet Abraham to proclaim Hajj amongst the people, he said, ‘My 

Lord, how can I convey the message to the people when my voice 

cannot reach them?’ Allah said, For you is to call; it is Our duty to 

make it reach them.’ So, he stood in position, and said, ‘O you people! 

Your Lord has chosen a house (of worship), so perform pilgrimage to 

it.’ It was said that the mountains were levelled and his voice reached 

all parts of the earth. All that were in the wombs were made to hear the 

call and everything that heard it responded. So those for whom Allah 

has decreed Hajj until the Day of Judgment responded, Labbayka 

Allahumma Labbayk (Here I am at your service, O Allah, here I am).”
7-19

What follows are the prominent rituals of Hajj: 

Rituals of Hajj: 

8th Dhul Hijjah - IHRAAM

Ihraam is the dress that is worn while one performs the worship of 

Hajj. The word Ihraam has been derived from the word Haram which 

implies a symbol of sacredness and purity. Ihraam is a state of mind 

and spirit after one has made the intention to complete the worship of 

Hajj. When in the state of Ihraam, one is prohibited from many acts 

which are otherwise acceptable to reflect and demonstrate complete 

submission to the will of Allah.

Moreover, Ihraam is a reminder that to enter the sacred Ka’bah, the 

“house of Allah”, a purified state of purpose and intention must be 

attained. Ihraam removes all status and position from the world outside 

of the Hajj. No matter how rich or poor, influential or weak, everyone 

dons the same simple white clothes in the house of Allah, stand 

shoulder to shoulder in prayer and worship at the same time and 

manner. For men, Ihraam comprises of two unstitched white sheets; for 

women, the white sheets are stitched in the form of their normal 

dresses. The two white sheets of Ihraam are reminders of the burial 

shrouds which remind the pilgrims of life after death and the limited 

time we live in this world.

TAWAF 

Tawaf al Ka’bah or circumambulation of the Ka’bah is an act of 

worship to Almighty God. 

Tawaf is done in obedience to the command of Allah: 

“...and circumambulate the Ancient House (the Ka‘bah at Makkah).”

(Qur’an 22:29)

In part, Tawaf symbolizes that the center of focus for a pilgrim is 

Allah. Pilgrims complete seven (Tawaf) circuits around the Ka’bah. 

After completing the seven circuits, pilgrims must go to Maqam 

Ibrahim (the Station of Abraham) and offer two units of prayer. The 

“Station of Abraham” is the rock on which Abraham stood while 

building the Ka’bah. After this, pilgrims head to the well of Zamzam to 

drink water before starting Sa’yee.

SA'YEE 

Sa’yee is an obligatory part of Hajj and a tribute to Hajar, the wife of 

Ibrahim and the mother of Ismail (peace be upon them). Sa’yee 

symbolizes Hajar’s faith and struggle in search of water for her son. By 

Allah’s Command, to test her faith, Prophet Ibrahim (upon him be 
7-20

peace), left Hajar with the infant Ismail (upon him be peace) in the 

desert between the hills of Safa and Marwah. Hajar remained patient 

because she knew that Ibrahim (peace be upon him) was acting on 

God’s Order. Hajar was left with a water skin and some dates while 

still nursing baby Ismail. After her resources were exhausted, and the 

baby began to cry from thirst, she ran between Safa and Marwah seven 

times in search of water. Upon the seventh run, she returned to Ismail 

and witnessed a well streaming with water near the foot of the baby. 

This was a miracle and blessing from Allah. The well is named 

Zamzam and pilgrims continue to drink from it until this day during 

Hajj. Hence, pilgrims must perform Sa’yee: running between Safa and 

Marwah seven times as one of the rites of Hajj.

Allah says: “Verily! Al-Safa and al-Marwah are of the Symbols of 

Allah. So, it is not a sin on him who performs Hajj or ‘Umrah 

(pilgrimage) of the House to perform the going between them. And 

whoever does good voluntarily, then verily, Allah is the Recognizer of 

All, All-Knower.” (Qur’an 2:158) 

MINA 

Next, is Mina. The pilgrims will leave for Mina after performing 

Sa’yee and arrive after dawn. Mina is located about 3 miles from 

Makkah. Mina is significant because the pilgrims stay one complete 

day there and offer the five daily prayers. Therefore, the afternoon, late 

afternoon, sunset, and evening worship of the 8th Dhul Hijjah and 

dawn worship of 9th Dhul Hijjah are offered in Mina. Afterwards, the 

pilgrims depart for Arafat.

9th Dhul Hijjah

YAUM AL-ARAFAT 

The 9th of Dhul Hijjah is Yaum al-Arafat (the day of Arafat). Yaum alArafat is the highlight of the Hajj. Pilgrims reach Arafat after dawn 

worship and remain there till sunset. At Arafat, pilgrims spend the 

entire day in worship repenting for their sins while asking for 

forgiveness from Allah. Wuquf Arafat: the literal meaning of Wuquf is 

‘standing.’ Pilgrims stand in the direction of the Ka’bah and raise their 

hands to pray with devotion. 

There are several points that must be made about Yaum al-Arafat:

To understand the status of Yaum al-Arafah, we only need to reflect on 

the statement of Prophet Muhammad. Prophet Muhammad (peace be 

upon him) said: “Hajj is Arafah.”
7-21

1. It is the day on which the religion was perfected and Allah’s 

Favor was completed to mankind.

Umar ibn al-Khattab reported that a Jewish man said to him, “O Amir 

al-Mu’mineen (Leader of the Believers), there is an ayah in your Book 

which you recite; if it had come to us Jews, we would have taken that 

day as an ‘Eid (festival).” ‘Umar said, “Which ayah?” He said: “This 

day I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon 

you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” (Qur’an 5:3). 

‘Umar said, “We know on which day and in which place that was 

revealed to the Prophet (peace be upon him). It was when he was 

standing in Arafah on a Friday.” (Sahih Bukhari & Sahih Muslim)

2. It is a day of Eid for the people who are there.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The day of Arafah), Yaum alNahr (the Day of Sacrifice) and Ayyaam al-Tashreeq (the following 3 

days are an Eid (festival) for us, the people of Islam. These are days of 

eating and drinking (enjoyment).” (Sunan)

3. It is a day about which Allah swore an oath.

The Almighty cannot swear by anything except that which is mighty 

and proper. Yaum al-Arafah is the “witnessed day” mentioned in the 

ayah: “By the witnessing day [Friday] and by the witnessed day [the 

Day of ‘Arafah].” (Qur’an 85:3).

Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The 

promised day is the Day of Resurrection, the witnessed day is the Day 

of Arafah, and the witnessing day is Friday.” (Tirmidhi)

4. Fasting on this day is an expiation for two years.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was asked about fasting on 

the Day of Arafah. He explained, “It expiates for the sins of the 

previous year and of the coming year.” (Sahih Muslim)

5. It is the day on which Allah took the covenant from the progeny 

of Adam (peace be upon him).

Ibn Abbas reported: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: 

“Allah took the covenant from the loins of Adam in Na’maan, (i.e., 

Arafah). He brought forth from his loins all of his offspring and spread 

them before Him, then He addressed them, and said: ‘Am I not your 

Lord? They said, ‘Yes, we testify,’ lest you should say on the Day of 

Resurrection: ‘Verily, we have been unaware of this.’ Or lest you 
7-22

should say: ‘It was only our fathers aforetime who took others as 

partners in worship along with Allah, and we were (merely their) 

descendants after them; will You then destroy us because of the deeds 

of men who practiced Al-Baatil (i.e., polytheism and committing crimes 

and sins)?’ (Qur’an 7:172-173).” (Ahmad) There is no greater day than 

this and no greater covenant than this!

6. Arafah is the day of forgiveness of sins, freedom from the Fire 

and pride in the people who are there.

Aisha narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “There is no 

day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire (of Hell) than the 

Day of Arafah. He comes close and expresses His pride to the angels, 

saying, ‘What do these people want?’” (Sahih Muslim)

It was reported from Ibn ‘Umar that the Prophet (peace be upon him) 

said: “Allah expresses His pride to His angels at the time of Isha 

(Evening worship) on the Day of Arafah, about the people of Arafah. 

He says, ‘Look at My slaves who have come unkempt and dusty.’” 

(Ahmad)

After the (Khutbah) sermon, the early and late afternoon worship are 

prayed together. When the sun sets, pilgrims leave for Muzdalfa 

without offering (Maghrib) sunset prayer in Arafah.

MUZDALIFA 

At Muzdalifa, sunset and evening worship is combined and prayed at 

the time of evening worship. The pilgrims spend the night at Muzdalifa 

and leave for Mina after offering dawn prayer. The pilgrims must 

collect at least 49 pebbles to be thrown at the Jamarat the next day. 

10th Dhul Hijjah: Ramy (pelting) the Jamarat

Jamarat are stone pillars representing Satan which are stoned by the 

pilgrims in commemoration of Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him). 

When Almighty God tested Abraham with sacrificing his first son 

Ismail, Satan appeared before Abraham on three occasions to dissuade 

him from obeying Allah’s command. Abraham picked up stones and 

threw them in the direction of Satan. After reaching Mina, pilgrims 

proceed to Jamarat ul Kubra where they throw seven stones on each of 

the three Jamarat. 
7-23

SACRIFICE 

After completing the Ramy, pilgrims proceed to the next ritual of Hajj 

which is sacrificing an animal in the way of Allah. To test Ibrahim’s 

faith, Allah commanded him to sacrifice his first son, Ismail. The 

Qur’an narrates:

“And when he (Ismail) reached with him [the age of] exertion, 

(Abraham) said, "O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I [must] 

sacrifice you, so what do you think." (Ismail) said, "O my father, do as 

you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast." 

And when they had both submitted and he put him down upon his 

forehead, We called to him, "O Abraham, you have fulfilled the 

vision." Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good. Indeed, this was a 

clear trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” (37: 102-107)

Just before Ibrahim was to move the blade to sacrifice Ismail in the 

way of Allah, Allah sent an animal by way of an angel and Ibrahim 

sacrificed the animal instead. Hence, pilgrims are commanded to 

sacrifice an animal in the way of Allah as an act of devotion. From the 

Islamic point of view, the sacrifice is in no way an act of atonement; it 

is an act of obedient submission to the Lord of Abraham (peace be 

upon him). This remarkable and historic event took place in and around 

the precincts of Makkah. 

HAIR CUTTING 

After sacrificing an animal, the pilgrims cut their hair. For men, the 

entire head is shaved. Generally speaking, women cut a lock from their 

hair or an inch or so all over. 

Tawaf al-Wadda (Farewell Tawaf) 

 

The final act of Hajj is returning to Masjid ul Haram and performing 

the final Tawaf. After completing seven circumambulations around the 

Ka’bah the rituals of Hajj are complete.

Yaum Al-Jumu’ah (Friday Congregational Worship)

Friday is the most important religious day of the week in Islam. There is no sabbath in Islam; 

nonetheless, in Muslim countries Friday is part of the “weekend” and schools and government 

offices are closed. 

It is the Creator, and only the Creator, who can make a specific time or location of creation holy 

and blessed. Allah gave us Friday as a day of extraordinary congregational worship and 

remembrance. While a Muslim may supplicate and beseech Almighty God at any and all times; 

we have been given 35 times a week to establish worship in congregation with other believers- 5 

times a day. The second worship time on Friday is special in that the format of the worship 
7-24

includes a Khutbah (sermon). This is the main day of weekly religious service in Islam. The 

worship service consists of a sermon and congregational prayer and is held around midday. 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Friday is the master of days and the greatest of them before Allah. It is greater before Allah 

than the days of al-Adha and al-Fitr. It has five characteristics: on this day Allah created Adam, 

on it He sent Adam down to the earth, on it Allah caused Adam to die, on it there is a time when 

a person does not ask Allah for anything but He gives it to him, so long as he does not ask for 

anything haram (unlawful), and on it the Hour will begin. There is no angel who is close to 

Allah, no heaven, no earth, no wind, no mountain and no sea that does not fear Friday.” (Ibn 

Majah) “They fear Friday” means they dear the onset of the Hour.

Friday is a day of many virtues. What follows are some of the virtues of this blessed day:

1. On Friday is Salat al-Jumu’ah (Friday congregational worship), which is the best of 

prayer.

Allah says:

“O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for the Salah (worship) on Friday, 

come to the remembrance of Allah and Salah and leave off business (and every other thing). 

That is better for you if you did but know!” (Qur’an 62:9)

Attending this worship on Fridays is one of the many means by which Almighty God forgives 

the sons of the Children of Adam. Every child of Adam will make some mistakes and 

transgressions and it is only by the Mercy and Grace of Almighty God that any will be forgiven.

The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “The five daily prayers and from one 

Jumu’ah to the next is an expiation for whatever sins come in between them, so long as one does 

not commit a major sin.” (Muslim)

2. Praying Fajr (Dawn Worship) in congregation on Friday is the best prayer that the 

Muslim can pray during the week. Almighty God chose worship on Friday as a special 

time to honor those who take heed and commit to doing good deeds, not on their terms, 

but on God’s terms. 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The best prayer before Allah is Fajr prayer on 

Friday in congregation.” (al-Bayhaqi)

3. Whoever dies during the day or night of Friday, the will have Allah’s protection.

The Messenger of All (peace be upon him) said: “There is no Muslim who dies during the day of 

Friday, or the night of Friday, but Allah will protect him from the trial of the grave.” (alTirmidhi)

It is imperative that Islamic Lay Leaders understand the significance of worship on Fridays and 

the right that his day has over Muslims. The peak of the day of Friday is Salat al-Jumu’ah.
7-25

Salat al-Jumu’ah (Friday Congregational Worship) has several prerequisites and conditions.

To repeat the verse about Salat al-Jumu’ah, Allah instructs the believers (Muslims):

“O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for the Salah (worship) on Friday, 

come to the remembrance of Allah and Salah and leave off business (every other thing). That is 

better for you if you did but know!” (Qur’an 62:9)

Also, we read in the Qur’an: “Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of 

specific times.” (4:103)

- The first condition of Alat al-Jumu’ah is that the proper time for the worship must arrive. If the 

proper time has not arrived, the worship becomes null and must be repeated in the correct frame 

of time. Salat al-Jumu’ah replaces the second worship of that day. Therefore, the time of Salat 

al-Jumu’ah is when the sun passes its zenith (midday, but not exactly noon). The time for Salat 

al-Jumu’ah ends with the time of late afternoon worship (Salat al-Asr).

- Attending Salat al-Mumu’ah is required for the Muslim who is mature, sance, physically able, 

and has established residence in a locale (i.e. not on a journey or actively traveling).

Prerequisites and Conditions for Validity of Salat al-Jumu’ah

1. The Khatib (Imam or Speaker) must deliver the Khutbah (sermon) before he leads the 

congregation in Friday prayer.

2. A congregation or Juma’h is a necessary condition for the validity of Salat al-Jumu’ah. 

A strong and sound opinion exists that has determined that a minimum of three worships 

along with the Imam is necessary to constitute a Juma’h (congregation). Prophet 

Muhammad (peace be upon him) explained: “Jumu’ah is a duty that is required of every 

Muslim in congregation.”

3. Salat al-Jumu’ah should not be held in more than one location in one area unless there is 

reasonable necessity. It is also stipulated that the place where Salat al-Jumu’ah is 

performed should be open and accessible for the worshippers (i.e. there should be no 

hindrances or impediments to entering the location). 

4. It is both mustahab and better for the Khutbah to be in Arabic; but delivering the Friday 

sermon in Arabic is not an absolute requirement. The purpose of the khutbah is to exhort, 

benefit and teach.

* Mustahab is a term used in Islamic Jurisprudence which means an authentic tradition of 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) which is highly recommended to be followed; but if 

one does not do it, there is no sin upon the person. 
7-26

Therefore, if the congregation does not understand Arabic, it is permissible for the Khatib to 

deliver the khutbah in another language. However, the recitation of the Qur’an must be in 

Arabic, as the Qur’an was revealed; then, afterwards, the Khatib may translate and explain in 

another language. 

The fact that the Khatib may deliver the sermon in another language other than Arabic is 

indicated by the following verse, Allah explains: “And We sent not a Messenger except with the 

language of his people, in order that he might make (the Message) clear for them.” (Qur’an 14:4)

Sequence of Worship for Salat al-Jumu’ah

Always use the chain of command.

1. First Adhan (Call to Prayer): As explained before, Salat Jumu’ah replaces the second 

time for worship on Fridays. Therefore, as is the case with all required worship, the First 

Adhan is called when the worship time arrives.

2. Tahiat al-Juma’h (Greeting the congregation): The Imam (worship leader) faces and 

greets the congregation with the greeting: As-Salaamu alaykum wa rahmatallah wa 

barakatuhu (May the Peace of Allah be upon you with Mercy and Blessings). The Imam 

will sit down after the greeting.

3. Second Adhan (Call to Prayer): The Second Adhan is called immediately after the 

congregation is greeted.

4. The Imam stands up and remains standing while delivering the 1st Khutbah: The Friday 

sermon is separated into two parts with a brief pause in between. The Khutbah is 

initiated with Khutbat al-Hajjah (the introductory speech) and must be spoken aloud. 

The Khutbah should be relatively short. Prophet Muhannad explained:

“Prolonging the prayer and shortening the Khutbah is a sign on one’s understanding of 

the religion. So, prolong the prayer and shorten the Khutbah for there is charm in 

(precise) expression.” (Sahih Muslim)

There are two benefits of making the Khutbah brief:

 The congregation does not lose focus; hence, the effect on their hearts is greater.

 The content of the Khutbah is more easily retained.

It is best and more proper that the introduction and 1st Khutbah rest on four pillars: 

1) Praising All at the beginning of khutbah.

2) Prayers upon the Prophet (peace be upon him) during speech.
7-27

3) Reciting a verse from the Qur’an.

4) Some reminder, admonition or incitement to God-Consciousness.

Afterwards, the 1st Khutbah ends with a reminder for the congregation to seek 

forgiveness from Almighty God.

The Imam will sit for the pause and short break between the Friday sermon.

5. The Imam begins the 2nd Khutbah: 

The 2nd Khutbah is generally shorted and it rests on three pillars:

1) Praising Allah at the beginning of the 2nd Khutbah.

2) Prayers upon the Prophet (peace be upon him).

3) Summary of topic, reminder and admonition of God-Consciousness.

6. The Imam closes the Khutbah by making Dua’ (supplicates).

7. After the Dua’, the Imam instructs the Muadhdhan (the one who makes the Adhan) to 

make the Iqamah (Call for the Muslims to stand and begin the prayer lead by the Imam).

8. The Imam will then lead the congregation in one unit of prayer. With the conclusion of 

the unit of prayer, Salat al-Jumu’ah formally ends.

Duties of the Islamic Lay Leader

1. You are the primary representative of Islam and the Muslims at the command; therefore, 

you should maintain proper and reasonable conduct and behavior. Failure to uphold the 

standards of proper Islamic behavior may result in being removed from the position of 

lay leader.

2. You are expected to serve faithfully and dutifully as a member of the Command 

Religious Program. Therefore, engaging in and participating in all meetings and relevant 

activities consistent with the position of lay leader must be maintained. 

3. As the Islamic lay leader, you are to advise the command about opportunities and needs 

for the Muslim community that you are responsible. 

4. As the Islamic lay leader, you are to encourage the Muslims to improve their spiritual life 

by attending worship and Islamic study groups. You should promote Islamic scriptural 

studies, or find leaders for training in your area. Be sure you search out interested persons 

and help them to understand the importance of growing in eman (faith) and service. 
7-28

5. Meet regularly with the chaplain to discuss the state of the Muslim community and the

needs for improving Islamic ministry. 

6. When and where it is possible, the Islamic lay leader shall attend training opportunities to 

strengthen his work. 

7. Work with your chaplain to establish contact with Active Duty Islamic chaplains and 

keep in touch with them to better evolve and improve your command and efforts. 

The Islamic lay leader is to be informed of his duties and responsibilities as it relates to the 

endorsement as a lay leader. The Islamic lay leader is responsible for keeping the local command 

and the Islamic Endorser aware of all events related to the endorsement. He is required to submit 

quarterly reports to the Islamic Endorser. Furthermore, he must obtain prior approval from the 

Installation Chaplain or designee, and the Islamic Endorser before ordering and or distributing 

any Islamic material regardless of format (audio, print, video, webpage). 

The Islamic Endorser may be contacted at: 

American Muslim Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Council (AMAF & VAC) 

P O Box 2125, Arlington, VA, 22202-9998 

(202) 427-7586

Islamic Supplies

Chaplains and/or lay leaders may contact www.Islamicbookstore.com or www.Dar-ussalam.com for procurement of any needed Islamic literature or supplies. Lay leaders are advised 

to contact their chaplain for assistance in procuring any materials.

Islamic Bookstore

3840 Band Street

Baltimore, MD 2122402522 USA

www.Islamicbookstore.com

Toll Free (888) 786-8700

Fax (410) 675-0085

Email service@Islamic-Bookstore.net

Dar-Us-Salam Publications

Conrad Sauer Dr., Suite A

Houston, TX 77043

www.dar-us-salam.com

(713) 722-0419
8-1

SECTION EIGHT:

GUIDE FOR BUDDHIST LAY LEADERS

Overview

Buddhism was founded by Prince Siddhartha Gautama after he became the Buddha about 2500 

years ago. The word Buddha means "The Awakened One" or "Fully Enlightened One." Prince 

Siddhartha Gautama was born to a royal family in India in 566 BCE. At the age of 29, he left the 

palace and searched for the meaning of life and at the age of 35, he became enlightened (fully 

awakened). Then, the Buddha spent forty years of his life showing the path to nirvana (nibbana) 

– the complete end of suffering, the complete peace and wellbeing.

Three Jewels/Triple Gem

The basic foundation of Buddhism is also known as the Triple Gem or Three Jewels:

 The Buddha, the Awakened One.

 The Dharma, the teaching or the paths 

 The Sangha, the Buddhist community

Theology – Major Teachings – Beliefs

The core teaching of the Buddha could be divided into three categories: avoid all evils, cultivate 

good deeds and purify one’s own mind. The Buddha’s teachings could be found in Tipitaka (The 

Pali Canon or Buddhist scriptures), there are 84,000 individual scriptures (sutta/sutra). The 

teachings may be summarized as the Four Noble Truths.

The Four Noble Truths (cattari ariya saccani)

 The Range of Suffering (dukkha ariya sacca)

 The Causes of Suffering (dukkha samudaya ariya sacca)

 The End of Suffering (dukkha nirodho ariya sacca)

The Eightfold Path – The End of Suffering 

 Right View (samma ditthi) of the Four Truths. 
8-2

 Right Intention/Thought (samma sankappa) 

 Right Speech (samma vaca) 

 Right Action (samma kammanta)

 Right Livelihood (samma ajiva) 

 Right Effort (samma vayama) 

 Right Mindfulness (samma sati) 

 Right Concentration (samma samadhi)

Three Basic Facts of Existences

1. Impermanence (Anicca)

2. Suffering or unsatisfactoriness (dukkha)

3. The not-self characteristic (Anatta-lakkhana)

Schools of Buddhism, Sects, Denominations

There are three main schools of Buddhism:

 Theravada Buddhism is mainly widespread in Thailand, Cambodia, Lao, Myanmar, Sri 

Lanka and some parts of Vietnam. 

 Mahayana Buddhism exists in China, Japan, Korean and some parts of Vietnam. 

 Vajrayana Buddhism is mostly in Tibet, Mongolia, Tuva, Bhutan, and Kalmykia.

There are several sects, denominations, and schools of Buddhism today, but they have the same 

ultimate goal, which is nirvana.

Holy Days and Festivals

These are some common Buddhist important days:

 Vesak or Visakah Puja (Buddha Day)

 Magha Puja Day (Sangha Day)
8-3

 Asalha Puja Day (Dhamma Day)

 Uposatha (Observance Day)

 Pavarana Day

 Kathina Ceremony (Robe offering ceremony)

 Avalokitesvara's (Kuan Yin) Birthday

 Mahayana New Year 

 Theravada New Year

 Nirvana Day

Weekly Buddhist Service

1. Leader announces the beginning of the service 

2. Lighting the candle and incense 

3. Opening Reading: from Sutra

4. Opening Paying Homage to Triple Gem

Arahang samma-sambuddho bhagava.

The Blessed One is Worthy & Rightly Self-awakened.

Buddhang bhagavantang abhiva demi.

I bow down before the Awakened, Blessed One.

(BOW DOWN)

Svakkhato bhagavata dhammo.

The Dhamma is well-expounded by the Blessed One.

Dhammang namassami.

I pay homage to the Dhamma.

(BOW DOWN)
8-4

Supatipanno bhagavato savaka-sang gho.

The Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples has practiced well.

Sangghang namami.

I pay respect to the Sangha.

(BOW DOWN)

5. Take Refuge 

[Namo tassa] bhagavato arahato

samma-sambuddhassa. (THREE TIMES)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One,

The Rightly Self-awakened One.

Buddhang saranang gacchami. I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dhammang saranang gacchami I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Saghang saranang gacchami. I go to the Sangha for refuge.

Dutiyam-pi Buddhang saranang gacchami A second time I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dutiyam-pi, Dhammang saranang gacchami A second time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Dutiyam-pi, Saghang saranang gacchami A second time, I go to the Sangha for refuge.

Tatiyam-pi, Buddhang saranang gacchami A third time, I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Tatiyam-pi, Dhammang saranang gacchami A third time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Tatiyam-pi, Saghang saranang gacchami A third time, I go to the Sangha for refuge
8-5

6. Meditation (5-30 minutes) 

7. Dharma talk/message 

8. Reading from the Sutra such as Dhammapada, note the reading is from the Tipitaka. 

9. Sending out of merit to all beings 

Sabbe satta sada hontu Avera sukha-jeevino.

May all beings live happily, always free from animosity.

Katang punna-phalang mayhang Sabbe bhagee bhavantu te.

May all share in the blessings springing from the good I have done.

10. Closing

Sources

These are helpful resources among the Buddhist community. These sources are highly 

recommended for Buddhist Lay leaders. 

1. http://www.buddhanet.net/

2. http://www.accesstoinsight.org/

3. http://www.dhammatalks.org/

Vendors

1. http://monasterystore.org/liturgy-supplies/

2. http://www.dharmacrafts.com/

Publication

 www.wisdompubs.org
9-1

SECTION NINE:

GUIDES AND CHECKLISTS

Overview

The influence of the lay leader ministry is extended as newcomers are effectively assimilated 

into your faith community. Focus on reaching out to and assimilating:

 Personnel who do not have a religious preference.

 Personnel whose preference is the same faith group and who are either newly reported 

aboard or who are not an active participant in the program.

Outreach is not proselytizing. Effective outreach requires respecting the right of people to 

choose not to be involved in any religious program and the right of people to choose a faith 

group other than your own.

Genuine friendship requires love for the other person, letting the other person set the agenda, and 

inviting the other person to worship or another religious program only after that person has 

indicated an interest.

Good Outreach Advertisement

 Is written in the language people will understand.

 Highlights relationships and people rather than programs and institutions.

 Catches the attention of the desired audience.

 Is composed of 60% space, titles, and images and 40% text.

 Is specific, focusing on one topic or issue.

 Has a standardized format.

 Is regularly repeated.

 Is placed where the people you are trying to reach will see it.

 Encourages the reader to take specific action.

 Considers what the person/group is thinking/feeling right now.

 Considers what you want the person/group to think/feel after reading the advertisement.
9-2

Assimilating Newcomers

Even with the most effective program for assimilating newcomers into your group, only 10-20%

of first time visitors will become regular participants. Helping first-time attendees become part 

of the faith community does not happen automatically. Visitors are looking for the friendliness 

and warmth of the people, the perceived benefit of the worship service/program, and the 

enthusiasm of the lay leader.

Principles for the effective assimilation of newcomers include:

 Make a visitor follow-up contact within 24 hours of the person’s first visit to one of your 

programs. The purpose of this contact is to encourage the visitor to return a second time. 

Do not expect or encourage the visitor to make a long-term commitment. The follow-up 

should be brief and non-manipulative. Thank the person for attending and invite them to 

come a second time.

 If your faith community has more than 25 active participants, form small groups of 4-15 

people. These groups may be prayer groups, religious studies, discussion groups, etc. 

Try to start a new small group every few months. Once a group has been in existence for 

3-12 months (maybe less if the ship is deployed), it becomes almost impossible for 

newcomers to join the group.

Find a meaningful role for every participant in your faith group. For example, one person/team 

might rig for worship; another person/team might be responsible for advertising; another 

person/team might assist the lay leader in preparing the evening prayer; another person/team 

might plan community service projects.

Services in Port

Use the logistic request message (LOGREQ), which the ship sends prior to port visits, to request 

a Navy chaplain or civilian clergy to conduct divine worship services aboard the ship. Include 

information on the faith group(s) for which worship is desired and the preferred time and date for 

the service(s).

Alternatively, use the LOGREQ to request information on the place and time of divine worship 

services conducted in English ashore. The LOGREQ should specify for which faith group(s) this 

information is desired.

The Operations Officer will generally prepare the LOGREQ at least 48 hours prior to the port 

visit.
9-3

Worship Service Checklist

Item Action Yes/

No

Time

Check with Executive Officer or operations officer to determine a 

good time for the worship service, ensuring that the service will not 

conflict with the command’s schedule. Meal hours and major 

evolutions are inappropriate times for conducting lay leader worship 

services.

Place

Select a place to conduct the service. Factors to consider in selection 

of a space include the probable noise level, size of the space, privacy, 

cleanliness, and comfort. Good options are the crew’s lounge, the 

mess decks, the wardroom, or officer’s lounge, or a conference room.

Approval Request that the Executive Officer approve the proposed time and 

place of the worship service.

POW/D 

Submission Submit a POD/W note to the ship’s office 2 days before the service.

Service 

Prepared

Prepare the lay leader worship service using the resources provided 

or suggested by the group chaplain.

Rig for 

Worship

Rig for worship 20 minutes before the service is to begin. Set out 

Bibles and hymnals, if needed. Set up hymn player, CD player or a 

tape recorder, if it will be used.

Request 

Announcement

Request that the OOD have the lay leader worship service announced 

over the 1MC (when appropriate) 15 minutes prior to the service and 

at the scheduled time of the service.

Conduct 

Service

Conduct the service in a prayerful and worshipful manner, in 

accordance with faith group requirements and using material 

provided/suggested by the group chaplain.

Secure After the service, stow all religious equipment and supplies in their 

proper place. Restore the space to its original condition.

Program Checklist

Step Action Yes/

No

1

When special programs are planned or when special guests are expected for 

services, is this announced or published?

2

Is reasonable provision made for personnel on watch to be relieved in order to 

attend divine services?

3 If a chaplain is aboard, is the church pennant hoisted for divine services?

4

Are all religious groups given the opportunity and encouraged to observe 

special days or religious observances?
9-4

5

Are there adequate provisions for the religious needs of faiths other than your 

own?

6

Have you made any attempts to learn the names of the

members in special faith groups (Christian Science,

Seventh Day Adventist, Later Day Saints (LDS), Orthodox, etc.) so that 

special ministry may be offered?

7 Do you know where to locate a chaplain if the need arises?

8 Are you or an assistant present when someone else conducts services aboard?

9 Is an adequate supply of equipment and supplies maintained for major faiths?

10 Are the equipment, supplies, and resources clean and in good condition?

11 Do you keep an up-to-date inventory?

12 Do you know how to obtain supplies?

13 Do you have a religious literature rack?

14 Is the location for your religious literature kept neat and clean?

15 Are interviews by the lay leader a part of the check-in procedure for new 

people at your command?

16

During the check-in procedure, do you explain the religious program at the 

command, explain your functions, and tell them the name of and how to reach 

the chaplain, invite them personally to services, and offer them literature?

17 Have you set aside adequate time for the preparation of your program?

18 Do you have a turnover file for your relief when the time comes?

Religious Study Checklist

Item Action Yes/

No

Topic Using materials provided by the group chaplain, determine the topic 

or scripture passage to be discussed.

Time

Check with the XO and operations officer to determine a good time 

for the religious study, ensuring the study will not conflict with the 

command’s schedule.

Location Select a place to conduct the study.

Approval Request the XO approve the time and place for the study.
9-5

Prepare for the 

study

Prepare for the study using the materials provided by the group 

chaplain. Most leaders’ guides for scripture or catechetical study 

will include suggestions on how to format and conduct the session.

POD/W 

submission Prepare a POD/W notice and submit it for inclusion in the POD/W.

Request 

Announcement

Request the Officer of the Deck (OOD) have the study announced 

over the 1MC (when appropriate) 15 minutes prior to, and at the 

scheduled time of the event.

Rig the Space

Rig the space, ensuring that study guides and other required 

materials are available.

Conduct the 

Study Prayerfully and faithfully conduct the study.

Secure Secure from the study and stow all gear.

Publicity Checklist

Step Action Yes/

No

1

Have you posted the names of the lay leaders at least monthly in the Plan of 

the Week (POW), Plan of the Day (POD)?

2

Have you listed the names of the lay leaders on bulletin boards at strategic 

locations throughout the command?

3

Are posted materials checked frequently to ensure they are clean, neat, and 

readable?

4

Are times of divine services or other religiously oriented programs published 

in the POW/D?

5 Do you use posters or bulletins to announce services or encourage attendance?

6

Is the word passed over the 1MC concerning time and place of the service the 

evening before service?

7

Is the word passed over the 1MC concerning time and place of the service 

prior to the service?

8 Is the word passed over the 1MC at the commencement of the service?

9

Did you personally invite personnel to attend and encourage the congregation 

to personally invite others?

10 Have you invited the CO, XO, and Command Master Chief (CMC)?

11 When special programs are planned or when special guests are expected for 

services, is this announced or published?

12 Does the crew know what you are offering (study, worship, etc.)?
9-6

Religious Study Ideas (Christian and Jewish)

The following list of ideas for a Bible study could be prepared with a minimum of resources.

Basic preparation resources should include: a good study Bible, a complete concordance, and a

Bible dictionary. If a Jewish study group, several TANAKHs or Chumash (Torah) would be 

helpful. Also, Koran’s for Muslim personnel. In fact, having a minimum of six of each would 

enhance a multi-religious study group.

Christian:

 Creation Account

 Exodus Account

 Ten Commandments

 Book of Psalms

 Book of Jonah

 Passover

 Abraham

 Joseph

 Moses Solomon 

 David

 Role of a Prophet

 Parables of Jesus

 Miracles of Jesus

 Jesus’ Teaching on the Law

 Gospels

 Epistles

 The Early Church

 Prayer
9-7

 Eternal Life

 Advent of Christ 

 Passion of Christ

 Discipleship

 Evangelism

 Angels 

 Holy Spirit

 Spiritual Armor

 Ministry of Paul

 Ministry of Peter

Jewish:

 Creation

 Flood

 Avraham (Abraham) and Sarah

 Yitzchak and Rivkah (Isaac and Rebecca)

 Ya’akov (Jacob), Rachel, and Leah

 Yosef (Joseph)

 Moses

 Exodus from Egypt

 Receiving the Torah/10 Commandments

 Sin of the Golden Calf

 Sin of the Spies

 Passover
9-8

 Book of Esther

 Book of Ruth

 Book of Job

 Holy Days

 Shabbat
9-9

Sacred Text Study Evaluation

Use this evaluation form as a tool to improve your studies:

Lay Leader_______________________________

Study_________________________________

Date__________________________________

Name (Optional)_____________________________________

Strongly Agree (SA)

Agree (A)

Neither (N)

Disagree (D)

Strongly 

Disagree (SD)

Instructions: 

Please rate your agreement to the following statements by circling.

1. The subject of the study was meaningful. SA A N D SD

2. The leader was well prepared. SA A N D SD

3. The location was appropriate. SA A N D SD

4. I felt comfortable attending the study. SA A N D SD

5. I would recommend this study to others. SA A N D SD

6. I was encouraged to share my thoughts. SA A N D SD

7. I plan to return. SA A N D SD

8. Please provide any suggestions or recommendations:
10-1

SECTION TEN:

MINISTRY ORGANIZATIONS

Catholic Resources

Publication / Organization Address Phone

Living Faith (Daily Devotional) Creative 

Communication for the Parish

1564 Fencorp Drive,

Fenton, MO 63026

800-325-9414

Liguori Publications

http ://www.liguori.org

One Liguori Drive,

Liguori, MO 63057-

9988

800-325-9521

Today’s Missal

http://www.ocp.org

Oregon Catholic Press

5536 NE Hassalo,

Portland, OR 97213

800-596-1653

The Department of Catholic Religious Education, 

Archdiocese of the Military Services, Inc.

http://www.milarch.org

Archdiocese of the 

Military Services, Inc. 

PO Box 4469

Washington, DC 20017

202-719-3600

The Department of Catholic Education Ministries 

Office of Liturgy, Archdiocese of Baltimore

320 Cathedral Street,

Baltimore, MD 21201-

4491

410-547-5360

Basic Catechism

http://www.pauline.org

Daughters of St. Paul 

Press 

Stock # 06234

800-876-4463

St. Joseph’s Missal 

William J Gallery & Co.

20 S Summit Ave,

Gaithersburg, MD 

20877

301-942-4700

Jewish Resources

Publication / Organization Web Address Pay/Free

Defense Logistics Agency http://www.dla.mil/HQ/C

haplain/Business.aspx Pay
10-2

Local Judaica Stores or Synagogues Pay

Jewish Welfare Board

https://jcca.org/what-wedo/jwb/ Free

The Aleph Institute

http://alephinstitute.org/wp/programs

/military-program/

Free

Pirchei Shoshanim http://www.pirchei.com/ Free

Kosher Troops

www.koshertroops.com

www.facebook.com/kosh

ertroops

Free

Project MOT www.projectmot.org Free

Jewish Support, Certification, and Education

Publication / Organization Web Address

Jewish Welfare Board https://jcca.org/what-we-do/jwb/

The Aleph Institute

http://alephinstitute.org/wp/programs/militaryprogram/

Pirchei Shoshanim http://www.pirchei.com/
10-3

Jewish Denominational Bodies

Publication / Organization Web Address

Union for Reform Judaism www.urj.org

The Rabbinical Assembly (Conservative) www.rabbinicalassembly.org

Reconstructionist Judaism www.jewishrecon.org

Rabbinical Council of America (Orthodox) www.rabbis.org

Jewish Resources for Study

Publication / Organization Web Address

See Denominational Bodies, Support, Certification, 

and Education Lists

Aish www.aish.com

Chabad-Lubavitch Media Center www.chabad.org

Protestant Resources

Publication / Organization Address Phone

Radio Bible Class

http://www.rbc.org/index.aspx

PO Box 2222,

Grand Rapids, MI 49501 616-942-2210

Christian Military Fellowship

http://www.cmfhq.org

Box 1207,

Englewood, CO 80150 303-761-1959
10-4

William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co

http://www.eerdmans.com

2140 Oak Industrial Dr.,

Grand Rapids, MI 49505 800-253-7521

Source of Light Ministries International

http://www.sourcelight.org

1011 Mission Road,

Madison, GA 30650 706-342-0397

The Navigators

http://www.navigators.org/us

PO Box 6000,

Colorado Springs, CO 

80934-6000

719-598-1212

Forward Movement

http://www.forwardmovement.org

300 West Fourth St.,

Cincinnati, OH 45202 800-543-1813

Lifeway

http://www.lifeway.org

One Lifeway Plaza,

Nashville, TN 37234 615-251-2000

The Upper Room

http://www.upperroom.org

1908 Grand Ave.,

Nashville, TN 37203 615-340-7200

Protestant Audio Message Ministries

Publication / Organization Address Phone

Insight for Living

https://www.insight.org/

PO Box 269000,

Plano, TX 75026 800-772-8888

The Word for Today

http://www.twft.com

PO Box 8000, 

Costa Mesa, CA 

92628

800-272-WORD

Bible Correspondence for Credit

Publication / Organization Address Phone

Biblical Education by Extension

http://www.beeworld.org

PO Box 62805,

Colorado Springs, CO 

80926

719-488-5837

Moody Bible Institute

https://www.moody.edu/

820 N. LaSalle Blvd.

Chicago, IL 60610

(800) DL MOODY

312-329-4000
10-5

Baptist Bible College

http://www.gobbc.edu

628 East Kearney,

Springfield, MO 

65803

417-268-6000

Lifeway

http://www.lifeway.org

One Lifeway Plaza,

Nashville, TN 37234 615-251-2000

Liberty University

http://www.libertyonlinedegrees.com

1971 University Blvd,

Lynchburg, VA

24502

434-582-2000

Protestant Film Ministries

Publication / Organization Address Phone

World Wide Pictures

http://www.billygraham.org/WWP_Index.asp

1 Billy Graham 

Parkway,

Charlotte, NC 

28201

704-401-2432

Gateway Films/Vision Video

http://www.visionvideo.com

PO Box 540,

Worcester, PA 

19490

610-584-3500

Eastern Orthodox Resources

Publication / Organization Address Phone

Military Resources Website of the Assembly of 

Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA.

www.assemblyofbish

ops.org/about/scobare

sources/military

303-333-7794

Roster of Canonical Orthodox Priests Serving on 

Active Duty in the Military.

www.oca.org/director

ies/military-chaplains 516-922-0550

“Digital Chant Stand” for Full Services and Weekly 

or Seasonal Variable Hymns.

http://www.agesinitia

tives.org/ 704-719-3074

Downloadable App for Devices with Readings of the 

Day, Saint of the Day, and Daily Prayers. 

www.goarch.org/-

/daily-reading-app 212-570-3500
10-6

Islamic Resources

Publication / Organization Address Phone

Kazi Publications, Inc.

http://www.kazi.org

3023-27 W. Belmont,

Avenue Chicago, IL

60618

773-267-7001

Dar-Us-Salam Publications 

http://www.dar-us-salam.com 

1111 Conrad Sauer 

Dr., Suite A 

Houston, Texas 

77043 

713-722-0419 

Buddhist Resources

Publication / Organization Address Phone

Access to Insight

www.accesstoinsight.org

Buddha Dharma Education Association

www.buddhanet.net

Bodhi Tree Forest 

Monastery and Retreat 

Centre

78 Bentley Road

Tullera via Lismore

NSW 2480

Australia

612-6628-2426

(Australia)

Dharma Crafts

www.dharmacrafts.com

https://www.dharmacr

afts.com/ 866-339-4198

Thanissaro Bhikkhu

www.dhammatalks.org

Metta Forest 

Monastery

13560 Muutama Ln

Valley Center, CA

92082

619-813-8461

The Monastery Store

www.monasterystore.org

Dharma 

Communications

P.O. Box 156

Mt. Tremper, NY

12457

845-688-7993

Wisdom Publications

www.wisdompubs.org

199 Elm Street

Somerville, MA 

02144

617-776-7416
10-7

Spiritual-But-Not-Religious and No Religious Preference Resources

Publication / Organization Address Phone

Unitarian Universalist Association

http://uua.org/

24 Farnsworth

Boston, MA 02210 617-501-7351

“Bless All Who Serve”

https://www.uuabookstore.org/Bless-All-Who-ServeP17101.aspx

24 Farnsworth St.

Boston, MA 02210

bookstore@uua.org

800-215-9076

News Media Creation and Recreation of the 

Spiritual-But-Not-Religious

https://www.oxfordhandbooks.com/view/10.1093/oxf

ordhb/9780199935420.001.0001/oxfordhb9780199935420-e-17

Movies for the Spiritual-But-Not-Religious

https://www.imdb.com/list/ls000383186/
11-1

SECTION ELEVEN:

LAY LEADER TRAINING PROGRAM

Standard Learning Objectives

The nature of religious ministry within the Coast Guard requires support for the religious 

freedom of all. Lay leaders are expected to complete basic lay-leader tasks to prescribed 

standards. The following are the baseline performance tasks for lay leaders:

1. Demonstrate dedication and responsibility to their faith, commanding officer, religiousministry team, and command members.

2. Demonstrate the ability to properly maintain religious equipment and supplies entrusted to 

their care.

3. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the logistic requirements for support of their ministry, 

to include religious supplies, inventory, and command requisitioning procedures.

4. Demonstrate the ability to properly set up for their specific faith group and devotional 

services.

5. Demonstrate a working knowledge of proper procedures for publicizing approved faith-group 

activities and distributing approved religious information and materials.

6. Demonstrate a working knowledge of proper referral procedures for persons seeking 

religious or personal counseling.

7. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the parameters of the commander’s responsibilities for 

the provision of religious ministry and the free exercise of religion as delineated in 

appropriate manuals, orders, and instructions.

8. Demonstrate the ability to plan, prepare, and lead shipboard and field devotional services.

9. Demonstrate the ability to work closely and cooperatively with other lay leaders representing 

various religious traditions.

10. Demonstrate a clear understanding of the parameters of their faith group’s expectations and 

limits.

11. Demonstrate the ability to identify and communicate the religious needs and requirements of 

command members.

12. Demonstrate the ability to complete and submit metrics required by the chaplain responsible 

for the command religious program of their unit.

13. Maintain a relationship with their own particular faith group as required by the faith group.

14. Demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly and involve others in public worship.
11-2

Lay Leader Personnel Qualification Standards

Lesson # 1: Religious Ministry and the Free Exercise of Religion in the Coast Guard

101 Free Exercise of Religion: The Commander’s Obligation

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

102 The Command Religious Program

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

103 Role of Navy Chaplains

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

104 Cooperation Without Compromise: Provide, Facilitate, Care for All

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

105 Limitations on Speech and Behavior for the Sake of Good Order and Discipline

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

106 Purpose of Lay Leaders

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

107 A Response to Religious Requirements of the Crew

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

108 Certified by Faith Group — Appointed by Commanding Officer

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

109 Supervision by the Chaplain

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________
11-3

Lesson # 2: Special Issues and Pertinent Navy and Coast Guard Instructions

201 Religious Ministry within the Coast Guard

 COMDTINST 1730.4 (series) Religious Ministries within the Coast Guard 

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

202 Accommodation of Religious Practices

 NAVY REGULATIONS, Article 0817

 SECNAV INSTRUCTION 1730.8 (series)

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

203 Observance of the Sabbath

 MILPERSMAN 1731-010

 Navy Regulations, Article 0817

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

204 Special Dietary Considerations

 SECNAVINST 1730.8 (series)

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

205 Freedom From Duty for Religious Observance

 U.S. Navy Regulation 1990

 MILPERSMAN 1731-010

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

206 Privileged Communication: Confidentiality for Chaplains but Not Lay Leaders

 Manual of Courts Martial, Part III, Section 1, Rule 503

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

207 Use of the Church Pennant: For Services Conducted Only by Chaplains

 U.S.C. Code, Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 7

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________
11-4

208 DOD Guidance for Sacramental Use of Peyote

 OPNAVINST 5350.4 (series)

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

209 Religious Offering Fund

 SECNAV INSTRUCTION 7010.6 (series)

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________
11-5

Lesson #3: Logistical Considerations and Administrative Procedures

301 Scheduling of Services: Regular and Extraordinary

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

302 Format and Length of Services

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

303 Religious Program Specialists Will Rig for Services

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

304 Ordering of Necessary Supplies

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

305 Report of Attendance

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

306 Advance Publicity

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

307 Length of Appointment and Letters of Appointment

 MILPERSMAN 1730-010

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

308 Supervised by Chaplains

 MILPERSMAN 1730-010

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

309 Frequent Consultation With the Command Chaplain

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

310 Reasons for Terminating Appointment

 MILPERSMAN 1730-010

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________
11-6

Lesson #4: Standards of Conduct

401 Conducting Lay-Led Services in an Orderly Manner

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

402 Respecting Right of All to Access Clergy of Their Choice

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

403 Supporting the Total Command Religious Program With Mutual Respect

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

404 Organizing “Church Parties” in Foreign Ports With Command Chaplain Approval

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

405 Religious Literature: Respectful of All and Approved by Command Chaplain

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

406 Passing Information to the Commanding Officer Via the Command Chaplain

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

407 Refraining From Any Speech or Behavior Degrading to Another for Any Reason

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

408 Refraining From Formal Preaching at Services Unless Authorized by Faith Group

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

409 Refraining From Administering Any Sacraments or Ordinances Without Approval

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

410 Refraining From Becoming Involved in Any Ongoing, Specialized Counseling

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

411 Refraining From Soliciting or Accepting Charitable Funds at Worship Services 

or Activities

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________
11-7

412 Refraining From Accepting Any Goods, Benefits, or Services in Remuneration

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

413 Refraining From Proselytizing or Pressuring Others to Attend Worship Services

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

414 Obtaining Prior Approval by Command Chaplain of All Publicity Announcements

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

415 Submitting a Weekly Attendance Report for All Worship Services or Events

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

416 Submitting a Written Request to Chaplain for All Necessary Supplies or Literature

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

417 Refraining From Purchasing or Distributing Literature That Defames 

Other Groups

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________

418 Lay Readers Represent the Command; Conduct Beyond Reproach

Completed ________________________________ Date:_________________
11-8

Standards of Conduct for Lay Leaders

By affixing my signature below I certify that I have been instructed in the importance of the 

Standards of Conduct and that I intend to abide by them in the exercise of my duties as a lay 

leader.

1. I will provide lay-led services for my religious faith group in an orderly manner and in such a 

way that the people attending will feel “at home” in the worship service.

2. I will respect the right of all personnel to have access to chaplains or civilian clergy of their 

own faith group.

3. I will support the total religious program of the ship and the worship services provided or 

coordinated for all by the Religious Ministries Department, always in a manner of mutual 

respect.

4. With prior approval and at appropriate times I may organize “church parties” to attend 

worship services or other religiously oriented cultural or social events for my faith group.

5. I may maintain a supply of religious instructional material to provide religious education. I 

will not distribute these materials outside the meeting of my faith group without the 

permission of the command chaplain.

6. I will keep the commanding officer informed of the activities of my faith group via the 

command chaplain.

7. I will refrain from doing or saying anything that may be understood as degrading to another 

person because of their race, sex, nationality, or religious preference.

8. I will refrain from formal preaching at services, unless specifically authorized to do so by my 

faith group, in recognition of the fact that I am a lay leader and not a clergyperson.

9. I will refrain from any attempt to administer sacrament or ordinances of my faith group 

without prior written approval of my faith group and approval by the commanding officer.

10. I will refrain from becoming involved in any individual counseling that is personal, 

prolonged, repetitive, or intimate in nature. My role is to refer individuals to the chaplains 

who are trained and authorized to provide counseling.

11. I will neither solicit nor accept any monetary offerings or goods of any sort at worship 

services.

12. I will not recruit members from other faith groups nor will I pressure or harass anyone to 

attend any worship services of any sort.

13. I will seek prior approval from the command chaplain for any and all publicity and 

announcements concerning my worship services and other activities.
11-9

14. At the conclusion of each service, I will inform the command chaplain of the number of 

people in attendance.

15. I will submit to the command chaplain a written estimate and request for any literature or 

supplies that I need for my services. I will ensure that this request is submitted a minimum of 

60 days prior to my needing these materials. Also, I will submit point-of-contact information 

for pertinent vendors, to include name, address, phone number, fax number, and email. I will 

also verify that the proposed vendor accepts credit card purchases.

16. I will refrain from the purchase or distribution of any literature that defames any other 

religious group or individual.

17. I understand that the conduct of my personal life is at all times a reflection upon the 

command religious program and my status as an appointed lay leader, and so I will conduct 

myself accordingly.

Signed: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________
A-1

APPENDIX A: LAY LEADER APPOINTMENT PROCEDURES

1. Suggest a Lay Leader candidate of a particular faith group from the command to the local or 

supervisory chaplain. Based upon experiences from crew involvement, the outgoing Lay 

Leader can oftentimes make a recommendation. This is simply one option for replacements. 

2. Have the candidate fill out and use the Lay Leader Information and Interview Sheet 

(Appendix A) as a checklist.

3. Have the candidate’s religious organization or church they regularly attend complete the 

Religious Organization Interview Form and submit a letter of recommendation (see 

Appendix C). If no particular church or religious organization can provide a letter of 

recommendation, a more in-depth interview by the chaplain is recommended to determine 

eligibility (see Appendix E for Chaplain Interview Form). 

4. The candidate must meet with his/her Division Officer, and the Division Officer must 

complete the Division Officer Recommendation Memo example (Appendix D).

5. The candidate coordinates training with the local or supervisory chaplain as available. The 

initial, required training can usually be completed in approximately two hours with additional 

training in the future. 

6. If needed, candidate receives additional Lay Leader training and/or appointment from any 

other religious organization requiring it (e.g. Roman Catholic, Islam). It will be the 

responsibility of the candidate to secure this specialized training. The candidate can check 

with the chaplain to see if he/she has contact information on file. 

7. After above steps are completed and acceptable, the interviewing chaplain provides a 

recommendation for the candidate and he/she submits it to the CO (see Appendix E for 

Chaplain Memo Example). The CO is responsible for the Command Religious Program and 

will make a decision on whether to appoint them as a Command Lay Leader in their 

particular faith group. 

8. If appointed, a letter of appointment needs to be prepared and signed by the CO (see 

Appendix F for Commanding Officer Appointment Memo Example), inserted in the service 

member’s service record and cc’d to the Supervisory Chaplain and local 

training/coordinating chaplain if different than the supervisory chaplain for record, 

supervision, logistical support, and other ongoing meetings, reports, and communications. 
B-1

APPENDIX B: LAY LEADER INFORMATION AND INTERVIEW FORM

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT: YOUR DISCLOSURE IS VOLUNTARY. HOWEVER, FAILURE 

TO PROVIDE THIS INFORMATION MAY RESULT IN YOUR NOT BEING FULLY CONSIDERED

FOR APPOINTMENT AS A RELIGIOUS MINISTRY LAY LEADER.

Name: ________________________________ Date: ______________________________________

Phone Number: _________________________ Email: _____________________________________

Applicant Supervisor: ____________________ Supervisor Email: ____________________________

Faith Group: ___________________________ Command: _________________________________

Location of Interview: ___________________ Interviewing Chaplain: ________________________

For the applicant to fill out:

Why do you want to be a lay leader?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

What makes you feel you are qualified to be a lay leader?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Have you ever been a lay leader before? If so, at what command and what did you do?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

If selected, what are your plans/goals?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
B-2

For the chaplain to fill out:

 Poor Excellent

Member’s standing within his/her division: 1 2 3 4 5

The maturity level of the member: 1 2 3 4 5

The enthusiasm of the member: 1 2 3 4 5

Is the member recommended by his/her chain of command? YES/NO

Has the member provided a letter from faith-group authority? YES/NO

Has the member gone through lay-leader training? YES/NO

RECOMMENDED YES/NO
C-1

APPENDIX C: RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATION INTERVIEW FORM 

AND LETTER EXAMPLE

For the applicant to fill out:

Candidate’s Name: ______________________________________________________________

Faith Group/Religious Organization: ________________________________________________

Faith-Group/Religious Organization Representative: ___________________________________

Address: ____________________________________________________

 ____________________________________________________

For the faith-group representative to fill out:

1. Is this candidate a member in good standing of this faith? ___Y ___N

2. Do you believe the candidate to be of good moral character? ___Y ___N

3. Is the candidate acceptable as a representative of your faith group? ___Y ___N

4. Do you authorize this candidate to lead a shipboard/field devotional service 

or prayer with persons of similar faith backgrounds? ___Y ___N

5. Are there any prohibitions? (If yes, please explain.) ___Y ___N

6. What specific sacraments, ordinances, rites, or rituals are members of your faith group 

required to receive regularly until a member of your clergy is available/accessible?

7. Do you authorize this candidate to provide/administer the sacraments, ordinances, 

rites, or rituals requirements in the absence of your clergy? ___Y ___N

8. What are the requirements of their administration?

Please attach a letter of recommendation on your religious organization’s letterhead.
D-1

APPENDIX D: DIVISION OFFICER MEMO EXAMPLE

(Unit Letterhead)

1730

Date

MEMORANDUM

From: Division Officer 

To: Commanding Officer

Subj: RELIGIOUS LAY LEADER RECOMMENDATION ICO FULL NAME, RANK, AND 

LAST 4

1. I recommend candidate’s full name, rank, Last 4, for the position of religious lay leader.

2. Candidate’s full name has been a member of my department since __________. I believe this 

candidate demonstrates the required leadership character for the position. He/she has no 

history of misconduct or marginal performance.

3. I have counseled the candidate and he/she understands that his/her collateral duties as a lay 

leader will not interfere with his/her primary command responsibilities.

I further understand that command support is required for the candidate to carry out the 

responsibility of a lay leader if appointed.
E-1

APPENDIX E: CHAPLAIN MEMO EXAMPLE

(Unit Letterhead)

1730

Date

MEMORANDUM

From: Command Chaplain

To: Commanding Officer

Subj: RELIGIOUS LAY LEADER RECOMMENDATION ICO FULL NAME, RANK, AND 

LAST 4

Ref: (a) COMDTINST 1730.4C Religious Ministries within the Coast Guard

(b) MILPERSMAN 1730-010

Encl: (1) Lay Leader Information and Interview Form

(2) Religious Organization Interview Form and Letter of Recommendation

(3) Division Officer Recommendation Memorandum

(4) Chaplain Recommendation Memorandum

(5) Copy of Completed Lay Leader Personnel Qualification Standards

(6) Lay Leader Appointment Letter

1. I submit the name of candidate’s full name, rank, Last 4, for a 12-month appointment to the 

position of command religious lay leader.

2. Candidate’s full name has completed the command’s requirement for appointment as 

documented by enclosures (1) through (5). 

3. This appointment is in accordance with references (a) and (b). The appointment responds to 

an identified religious ministry support requirement and conveys no ecclesiastical/religious 

organization status to the service member appointed.

#
F-1

APPENDIX F: COMMANDING OFFICER APPOINTMENT MEMO EXAMPLE

(Unit Letterhead)

1730

Date

MEMORANDUM

From: Commanding Officer

To: Candidate’s full name, rank, last 4

Subj: RELIGIOUS LAY LEADER APPOINTMENT

Ref: (a) Religious Ministries within the Coast Guard, COMDTINST 1730.4 (series)

(b) MILPERSMAN 1730-010

(c) U.S. Coast Guard Lay Leader Handbook

1. You are hereby appointed to serve as a command religious lay leader.

2. This appointment is in accordance with references (a) and (b) and responds to an identified 

religious ministry support requirement and conveys no ecclesiastical/religious organization

status. This appointment is for a period of 12 months or when the need no longer exists, 

whichever comes first.

3. This appointment implies the authority to terminate such appointment and remove you from 

participation in the command religious program. This appointment will be terminated if/when 

your conduct hinders accomplishment of the command religious program or reflects 

adversely upon this command.

4. The command chaplain will provide the direct supervision of your lay-leader duties and 

responsibilities.

5. You are responsible to maintain your relationship with your faith group. You are required to 

report any changes in your faith-group status to this command immediately.

6. Thank you for your willingness to serve your fellow shipmates in this important role.

#

Copy: Command Chaplain (office symbol)

Service member’s service record
G-1

APPENDIX G: LAY LEADER RELIGIOUS MINISTRY REPORT FORMAT

Lay Leader: ___________________________________________________________________

Faith Group: ___________________________________________________________________

Phone: _______________________________________________________________________

Email: ________________________________________________________________________

Report for the Month of: _________________________________________________________

Command: ____________________________________________________________________

Please mark any events that were made available for your faith group

Week # Worship

Services

Bible

Studies

Other

Studies

Special

Events

Attendance

1

2

3

4

5

Do you have all the materials needed perform your lay-leader duties? Yes / No

If no, what supplies do you need?

Are there adequate worship supplies on board for your crewmembers? Yes / No

If no, what supplies do you need?

Notes: