A '''paraklesis''' is a service of supplication specifically for the living (as opposed to a [[Memorial Services|Memorial Service]], which is a supplication for the departed). This service is most often addressed to the [[Theotokos]], but may be used to seek the intercessions of any [[saint]]. The distinguishing feature of a paraklesis is the inclusion of a supplicatory [[canon]] to the saint whose intercessions are being sought. A paraklesis can be served as a stand-alone service or, in a slightly abbreviated form, in conjunction with [[Vespers]]. It is appropriate to be served at any time of need.

* [http://www.orthodoxengland.btinternet.coorg.uk/cansted.htm oe4/the-small-supplicatory-canon-to-the-holy-martyr-edmund-king-of-east-anglia/ Small Supplicatory Canon to the Holy Martyr Edmund, King of East Anglia], website of St. Felix and St. Edmund Orthodox Church* [http://www.brightagesinitiatives.netcom/~palamasdcs/CyberPsaltiripublic/Horologiondcs/AugustIntroducitonbooksindex.htm html Great and Small Supplicatory Canons to the Theotokos], CyberpsaltiriDigital Chant Stand, a website with texts translated by Fr. Seraphim Dedes ''et al.'' of [[Sthttp://www.agesinitiatives. Gregory Palamas Monastery org AGES Initiatives (HayesvilleCharlotte, OhioNC)]]* [http://www.goarch.org/en/chapel/learntochant-/learn-to-chant-paraklesis.asp Learn to Chant - Paraklesis], Text with Audio Recording chanted by [[Eikona]]