His Holiness addresses the topic of memorization as a spiritual and service training, stressing its importance for both servants and those served, and outlining the benefits of memorization for prayer, meditation, and learners of various ages.

Benefits of memorization in service

He explains that memorizing prayers, psalms, and verses enables a person to pray without a book and in any circumstance (in darkness, on the road, among people), and it gives an opportunity for meditation and understanding through repetition.

Types of material to memorize and how to apply it

He notes that what is memorized includes verses, psalms, parts of the litanies, melodies and words, and portions of the Holy Scripture (such as the Sermon on the Mount, Romans 12, Corinthians 13), and he suggests memorization programs for children particularly during summer holidays to exploit their high capacity for memorization.

Criteria for memorization and gradualness

He emphasizes that memorization must suit the age and level of each person (simple verses for small children, longer ones for adults), and that it should be done progressively with practical notes such as memorizing verses about doctrine, virtues, and spiritual warfare appropriate to each stage.

Methods to encourage memorization

He advises holding competitions and prizes for memorization, assigning small weekly portions of psalms and litanies, and having the teacher or priest follow up with the student or the served person when memorizing so that he becomes a reference and reliable source.

Memorization and contemporary life

He warns against excessive reliance on modern means (books, computers, calculators) which may weaken memory, and urges developing memory for quick responses, better understanding, and protecting the mind from being occupied by the devil.

Spiritual and educational outcomes of memorization

He explains that memorization benefits the spiritual side (prayer and meditation), education and upbringing, and responding to doctrinal opponents, and that investing childhood in memorization is a valuable asset that should not be missed.

For better translation support, please contact the center.