The act of calling on a deity, saint etc. for help. In theosophical usage what is called an invocation may be closer to an affirmation.

Probably the most widely used invocation in theosophical lodges or branches is the one used by Annie BESANT:

O hidden life vibrant in every atom,

O hidden light, shining in every creature,

O hidden love, embracing all in oneness,

May each who feels himself as one with thee,

Know he is therefore one with every other.

Some users have made a minor alteration to the fourth and fifth lines to make it gender-neutral:

May all who feel themselves as one with thee

Know they are therefore one with every other.

Alice BAILEY published an invocation which has had widespread use:

From the point of Light within the Mind of God

Let light stream forth into the minds of men.

Let Light descend on Earth.

From the point of Love within the Heart of God

Let love stream forth into the hearts of men.

May Christ return to Earth.

From the centre where the Will of God is known

Let purpose guide the little wills of men —

The purpose which the Masters know and serve.

From the center which we call the race of men

Let the Plan of Love and light work out.

And may it seal the door where evil dwells.

Let Light and Love and Power restore the Plan on Earth.

The distinction between an invocation and prayer is not always clear. It probably depends on the intent of the invoker. In Christian Churches the Lord’s Prayer is used as a prayer since it is a series of requests, but the 23rd Psalm might be used as an invocation, since it is in the nature of an affirmation.

P.S.H.

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