Glory Be to the Father (1)
Glory be to 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.
Our Father (2)
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.
Hail Mary (3)
Hail Mary, full of grace! the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among 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.
The Apostle’s Creed (4)
I believe in God, the Father of the Almighty, Creator of heaven and
earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only son, our Lord who was conceived
by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary suffered under Pontius
Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell; on
the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven and is seated at
the right hand of the Father; from thence 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 Contrition (5)
O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of Heaven, and the pains of Hell; but most of all because I love Thee, my God, Who art all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen.
Act of Faith (6)
O my God, I firmly believe that Thou art one God in three Divine Person, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; I believe that Thy 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 Thou hast revealed them, who canst neither deceive nor be deceived. Amen.
Act of Hope (7)
O my God, relying on Thy almighty power and infinite mercy and promises, I hope to obtain pardon of my sins, the help of Thy grace, and life everlasting, through the merits of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Redeemer. Amen.
Act of Charity (8)
O my God, I love Thee above all things, with my whole heart and soul, because Thou art all good and worthy of all love. I love my neighbor as myself for the love of Thee. I forgive all who have injured me, and ask pardon of all whom I have injured. Amen.
PRAYERS TO THE TRINITY
2014 Lima Life Teen Prayer (9)
I pray to you, God the Holy Spirit, and I give all of myself to you. I worship you for you are pure, just and powerful as love. You are my strength. You are my guide. I ask for you to surround me and change me. Change my mind to think like Jesus. Change my body to act like Jesus. Change my heart to love like Jesus. Give me the ears to hear your voice guiding me, and when I hear your voice, may I obey. Make me holy and joyful. Give me the courage I need to live as a missionary. May people come to know Jesus because I am in their lives. Amen
Prayer To Start the Day (10)
Lord, may this day be Yours.
May my actions glorify You.
May my words flow from You.
May my spirit find rest within You.
In Christ’s Name, Amen.
A Night Prayer (11)
Eternal Father,
I desire to rest in Thy Heart this night.
I make the intention of offering to Thee
every beat of my heart,
joining to them as many acts of love and desire.
I pray that even while I am asleep,
I will bring back to Thee souls that offend Thee.
I ask forgiveness for the whole world,
especially for those who know Thee and yet sin.
I offer to Thee my every breath and heartbeat
as a prayer of reparation. Amen.
The Serenity Prayer (12)
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.
Suscipe (13)
Take, O Lord, and receive my entire liberty, my memory, my understanding and my whole will. All that I am and all that I possess, Thou hast given me: I surrender it all to Thee to be disposed of according to Thy will. Give me only Thy love and Thy grace; with these I will be rich enough and will desire nothing more. Amen.
The Prayer "Thank You God" (14)
For all You have given, Thank You God.
For all You have withheld, Thank You God.
For all You have withdrawn, Thank You God.
For all You have permitted, Thank You God.
For all You have prevented, Thank You God.
For all You have forgiven me, Thank You God.
For all You have prepared for me, Thank You God.
For the death You have chosen for me, Thank you God.
For the place you are keeping for me in heaven, Thank You God.
For having created me to love You for eternity,Thank You God.
Anima Christi (15)
Soul of Christ, sanctify me;
Body of Christ, save me;
Blood of Christ, inebriate me;
Water from the side of Christ, wash me;
Passion of Christ, strengthen me;
O good Jesus, hear me;
Within Your wounds, hide me;
Separated from You, let me never be;
From the evil one, protect me;
At the hour of my death, call me;
And close to You, bid me;
That with Your saints, I may be, praising You forever and ever. Amen
Generous God (16)
Generous God,
We give thanks to You for the gifts You have given us:
life, family, friends,
time, talents, and material possessions.
All that we have comes from You.
Help us to remember this
and rejoice in Your goodness.
Walk with us, Lord.
Help us on our spiritual journey,
so that we may constantly renew our relationship with You
and all the good people in our families,
our parish, our community, our country and our world.
Renew in us your Spirit.
Give us the strength and courage
to become better followers of Jesus;
to become His disciples.
Help us hear the call to "Come, Follow Me."
Amen
An Act of Spiritual Communion (17)
My Jesus,
I believe that You
are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things,
and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.
A Prayer of Gratitude (18)
Thank you, Lord, for the blessings you have bestowed on my life. You have provided me with more than I could ever have imagined. You have surrounded me with people who always look out for me. You have given me family and friends who bless me every day with kind words and actions. They lift me up in ways that keep my eyes focused on you and make my spirit soar.
Also, thank you, Lord, for keeping me safe. You protect me from those things that seem to haunt others. You help me make better choices, and you have provided me with advisors that help me with the difficult decisions. You speak to me in so many ways so that I always know you are here.
And Lord, I am so grateful for keeping those around me safe and loved. I hope that you provide me with the ability and sense to show them every day how much they matter. I hope that you give me the ability to give to them the same kindness they have provided to me. I am just so grateful for all of your blessings in my life, Lord. I pray that you remind me of just how lucky I am, and that you never allow me to forget to show my gratitude in prayer and returned kind acts. Thank you, Lord. In your name, Amen.
A Prayer for Healing (19)
Lord, You invite all who are burdened to come to you. Allow Your healing Hand to heal me. Touch my soul with Your compassion for others; touch my heart with Your courage and infinite Love for all; touch my mind with Your Wisdom, and may my mouth always proclaim Your praise. Teach me to reach out to You in all my needs, and help me to lead others to You by my example.
Most loving Heart of Jesus, bring me health in body and spirit that I may serve You with all my strength. Touch gently this life which you have created, now and forever. Amen.
Prayer of Abandonment (20)
Father,
I abandon myself into your hands;
do with me what you will.
Whatever you may do, I thank you:
I am ready for all, I accept all.
Let only your will be done in me,
and in all your creatures -
I wish no more than this, O Lord.
Into your hands I commend my soul:
I offer it to you with all the love of my heart,
for I love you, Lord, and so need to give myself,
to surrender myself into your hands without reserve,
and with boundless confidence,
for you are my Father.
A Universal Prayer For All Things Necessary To Salvation (21)
My God, I believe in You; strengthen my faith. All my hopes are in You; secure them. I love You; teach me to love you daily more and more. I am sorry that I have offended You; increase my sorrow.
I adore you as the Author of my first beginning. I aspire after you as my last end. I give you thanks as my constant Benefactor, I call upon you as my sovereign Protector.
My God, be pleased to conduct me by your wisdom; to restrain me by the thought of Your justice; to comfort me by Your mercy; to defend me by Your power.
To You I desire to consecrate all my thoughts, words, deeds, and suffering, that henceforth I may think of you, speak of you, refer all my actions to You greater glory, and suffer willingly whatever You shall appoint.
Lord, I desire that in all things Your Will be done, because it is Your Will, and I desire that all things be done in the manner that You will them.
Grant that I may always esteem whatsoever is pleasing to You, despise what You abhor, avoid what You forbid, and do what you command.
I beg You to enlighten my understanding, to inflame my will, to purify my body, and to sanctify my soul.
My God, give me strength to atone for my sins, to overcome my temptations, to subdue my passions, and to acquire the virtues proper to my state of life.
Fill my heart with tender affection for Your goodness, hatred of my faults, love of my neighbor, and contempt of the world. May Your grace help me to be obedient to my superiors, kind and courteous to my inferiors, faithful to my friends, and charitable to my enemies.
Assist me to overcome sensuality by self-sacrifice, avarice by almsdeeds, anger by meekness, and carelessness by devotion. My God, make me prudent in my undertakings, courageous in danger, patient in trials, and humble in success.
Grant that I may be ever attentive at my prayers, temperate at my meals, diligent in my work, and faithful in my good resolutions.
Let my conscience be ever upright and pure, my behavior modest, my conversation kind, and my actions edifying.
Assist me that I may continually strive to overcome the evil inclinations of my nature, to cooperate with Your grace, to keep Your commandments, and to work out my salvation.
My God, make me realize the nothingness of this world, the greatness of heaven, the shortness of time, and the length of eternity.
Grant that I may prepare for death; that I may fear Your judgment; that I may escape hell and in the end obtain heaven. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer for the Sick (22)
Father of goodness and love, hear our prayers for the sick members of our community and for all who are in need. Amid mental and physical suffering may they find consolation in your healing presence. Show your mercy as you close wounds, cure illness, make broken bodies whole and free downcast spirits. May these special people find lasting health and deliverance, and so join us in thanking you for all your gifts. We ask this through the Lord Jesus who healed those who believed. Amen.
Prayer of Praise and Thanks (23)
Blessed are you, Lord God:
Blessed are you for ever.
Holy is your name:
Blessed are you for ever.
Great is your mercy for your people:
Blessed are you for ever.
Amen!
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
We praise you and give you glory:
We bless you for calling us to be your holy people.
Remain in our hearts,
And guide us in our love and service.
Help us to let our light shine before others
And lead them to the way of faith.
Holy Trinity of love,
We praise you now and for ever.
Amen!
We praise you, Father of all;
We thank you for calling us to be your people,
And for choosing us to give you glory.
In a special way we thank you for...
(State your intention here.)
Cleanse our hearts and our lives
With your holy word
And make our prayer pleasing to you.
Guide us by your Spirit
As we follow in the paths of Jesus our brother.
All glory and praise are yours, Father,
For ever and ever.
Amen!
Let us give glory to the Father
Through the Son
In the Holy Spirit,
For God has made us his people, his Church,
And calls us to sing his praises.
All honor and glory and thanks are his,
And praise and worship belong to him.
To God be glory in his Church
For ever and ever!
Amen!
Thanks for a beautiful day: On a beautiful day,
we may thank God and praise him for his many gifts.
Father of Jesus,
We praise you and give you glory
For the wonderful things you do for us;
For life and health,
for friends and family,
for this splendid day.
For these reasons, we pray as Jesus taught us:
Our Father... (Recite the 'Our Father' here.)
Come, Holy Spirit (24)
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Thy faithful and enkindle in them the fire of Thy love.
V. Send forth Thy Spirit and they shall be created.
R. And Thou shalt renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray. O God, Who didst instruct the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise, and ever to rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer For The Seven Gifts Of The Holy Spirit (25)
Christ Jesus,
before ascending into heaven,
You promised to send the Holy Spirit
to Your apostles and disciples.
Grant that the same Spirit
may perfect in our lives the work
of Your grace and love.
Grant us the Spirit of Fear Of The Lord that
we may be filled with a loving reverence toward You.
The Spirit of Piety
that we may find peace and fulfillment
in the service of God while serving others;
The Spirit of Fortitude
that we may bear our cross with You
and, with courage, overcome the obstacles
that interfere with our salvation;
The Spirit of Knowledge
that we may know You and know ourselves
and grow in holiness;
The Spirit of Understanding
to enlighten our minds
with the light of Your truth;
The Spirit of Counsel
that we may choose the surest way of doing Your will,
seeking first the Kingdom;
Grant us the Spirit of Wisdom
that we may aspire
to the things that last forever;
Teach us to be Your faithful disciples
and animate us in every way with Your Spirit. Amen.
PRAYERS TO MARY
Memorare (26)
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help or sought thy intercession, was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O virgin of virgins, My Mother. To thee I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate! Despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy, hear and answer me. Amen
Magnificat (27)
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior;
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is His Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm;
He has cast down the might from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel,
for He has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise He made to our father,
to Abraham and his children forever. Amen.
Hail, Holy Queen (28)
Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail, 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 vale of tears. Turn then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus, O merciful, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary! Amen.
PRAYERS FOR OTHERS
For Helping a Friend (29)
Lord, grant me the strength, the courage, the patience, and the humility I need to help my friend. Let me love selflessly by Your supreme example. Holy Spirit, fill me with Your grace so that my words become Yours. Thank You for being my support and comfort so that I may support and comfort my friend. Amen
A Prayer for God's Grace for Someone Else (30)
Lord, thank you for all you do in my life. I know, Lord, that we are imperfect people living in imperfect times, but Lord, some of us need your grace in a mighty way. Lord, please protect this person against the things that pull them away from you. Let that person live in you as you desire. Give them the strength during this rough patch in their life. Let your desires be their desires. Lord, please provid your grace through protection from the harm that seems to come to them physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Please give htem strength to get through each day, because you are there to provide it for them. Lord, I ask that you cover them in grace for healing and for direction. Please, Lord, give me the strength to be honest with them so that I can be an instrument of grace. Let me be more like you by providing them unconditional love - something they so need in their lives. Give them a path and let them see clearly what needs to be done. I ask you Lord to provide as you always do - to move the mountains of doubt and pain that fill their lives. In your holy name, Amen.
Strength for a Friend (31)
Lord, I come before you today knowing that all power is in Your hand. I know that you are the Lord and that you care for your people. Right now, my friend is struggling with a difficult trial. I can see her/his strength is faltering, Lord, and know that you have all of the strength that she/he needs.
I pray that you will reach down and touch her/him right now wherever she/he is at this moment. Let your presence fill the room where she/he is and let her/him feel an extra portion of your strength that can help her/him to get through this day.
She/he needs you now, Lord, and I thank you in advance for meeting her/him where she/he is and shoring up her/his strength during this difficult time. In Jesus name. Amen.
Praying for Your Troops (32)
Lord, there is so much going on in our world, from wars to poverty. Please help our troops to do the right thing for those in need around the world. Give them the strength and courage to protect and serve our country and bring light to those living in darkness. Help them to build homes and schools, protect mothers and children, and encourage those to see that there is hope in the world. Also, help them to keep us safe in our homes. Let them know that they are appreciated for all that they do for us, Lord, and let us be respectful to those that return home from service to their country. Protect and guide them through their missions, and go before them to shield them, Lord. Let your hand be upon them as they carry on in our nation's name. Thank you for all that you do, Lord. Amen.
Prayer for Your Country (33)
Lord, thank you for allowing me to live in this country. Lord, I live up my country to you for blessings today. I thank you for allowing me to live in a place that lets me pray to you every day, that lets me speak out my beliefs. Thank you for the blessing that this country is to me and my family.
Lord, I ask that you continue to have your hand on this nation, and that you provide the leaders with the wisdom to guide us in the right direction. Even if they are not believers, Lord, I ask that you speak to them in different ways so that they make decisions that honor you and make our lives better. Lord, I pray that they continue to do what is best for all the people in the country, that they continue to provide for the poor and downtrodden, and that they have the patience and discernment to do what is right.
I also pray, Lord for our country's safety. I ask that you bless the soldiers that guard our borders. I ask that you keep those that live her safe from others who would do us harm for being free, for worshiping you, and for allowing people to speak freely. I pray, Lord, that we one day see an end to the fighting and that our soldiers come safely home in a world that is both grateful and no longer needs them to fight.
Lord, I continue to pray for this country's prosperity. Even in hard times, I ask for your hand in programs that help those who have problems helping themselves. I thank you for your hand in already helping those who do not have homes, jobs, and more. I pray, Lord, that our people continue to find ways to bless those that feel alone or helpless. Again, Lord, I pray from a place of thankfulness that I have been given a gift like living in this country. Thank you for all of our blessings, thank you for your provisions and protections. In Your Name, Amen."
A Prayer for Our Teachers (34)
Lord, thank you so much for all the blessings you have provided in my life. I ask you to extend those same blessings to the people I see every day in school- my teachers. Lord, let them teach me well, and let them never lose their heart for their students.
Lord, I ask that you make yourself a part of their lives whether they believer or not. Let them be examples of your light to others. Also, if they have hardships in their own lives, I ask that you provide for them and their families.
Thank you, Lord, for allowing me to learn from so many different people. Thank you for allowing my teachers in my life to reach out to me and help me grow in so many ways. I thank you for the freedom to learn and for giving my teachers the desire to be those that educate me. I ask your continued blessings. In your holy name, Amen.
The Daily Prayer For Priests (35)
O Jesus, I pray for your faithful and fervent priests;
for your unfaithful and tepid priests;
for your priests laboring at home or abroad in distant mission fields.
for your tempted priests;
for your lonely and desolate priest
for your young priests;
for your dying priests;
for the souls of your priests in Purgatory.
But above all, I recommend to you the priests dearest to me:
the priest who baptized me;
the priests who absolved me from my sins;
the priests at whose Masses I assisted and who gave me Your Body and Blood in Holy Communion;
the priests who taught and instructed me;
all the priests to whom I am indebted in any other way (especially …).
O Jesus, keep them all close to your heart,
and bless them abundantly in time and in eternity. Amen.
Prayer for Your Youth Leaders (36)
Thank you, Lord, for putting my youth leaders into my life. They provide me with so much love and support, and I know that they make many sacrifices in order to be there for me. I ask you, Lord, to provide for them emotionally and physically so that they can continue to do your will in my life and the lives of the other students in the church. I ask you, Lord, to continue to put a burden on their heart for those that need them most and to direct their path so that your will is done. Let them know that they are loved and blessed. In Your Name, Amen.
Prayer for the UnderprivILeged and Poor (37)
Lord, I know that you have given me so much. You provide a roof over my head. You provide me with an abundance of food on my table. I have friends and the opportunity to get an education. I have conveniences like computers, iPods, and iPads. You have blessed me in my life with so many things that I don't even know. How you keep me safe, how you protect those I love, how you give me an opportunity every single day to love you. I cannot express enough how grateful I am for these things. I do not know if I could handle any less, but I do know that you would be there beside me to give me strength just as you do now.
But Lord, there are so many other people who have so much less than I do. There are those that have no idea what life is like outside of depravity. There are those living every night on the streets, faced with dangers beyond my imagination. There are scary threats that face them every day, and every day is a struggle for them to live. There are those with health and psychological issues that cannot live normally that just need your protection. There are people that cannot seem to find their way through life that may not know how to hear you, but you can be there with them anyhow.
And Lord, I know there are people around the world starving. There isn't enough food to always go around. Water is contaminated and a commodity that some areas on the earth do not have. There are children dying every day from starvation. And there are those facing daily abuse from those they love or look up to. There are damages done to people every day psychologically, emotionally, and physically. There are girls oppressed in countries where they cannot study to grow out of their oppression. There are places where an education is such a privilege a majority of people never have the opportunity to learn. There are so many underprivileged people in the world, and I lift them all up to you.
I ask you, Lord, to intervene in these cases. I know that you have a plan, and I don't know what that plan is or why these bad things happen, but you say that the poor in spirit will inherit the kingdom of heaven. I pray that you will find a place for those that live thier lives underprivileged and suffering. I also pray, Lord, that you always give me a heart for those who have less, so that I always feel a need to do your work here. I pray that I can life those up and touch lives that need me. In Your name, Amen.
Prayer for the Unborn Child (38)
Almighty God, our Father,
you who have given us life
and intended us to have it forever,
grant us your blessings.
Enlighten our minds to an awareness
and to a renewed conviction
that all human life is sacred
because it is created
in your image and likeness.
Help us to teach by word
and the example of our lives
that life occupies the first place,
that human life is precious
because it is the gift of God
whose love is infinite.
Give us the strength to defend human life
against every influence
or action that threatens or weakens it,
as well as the strength
to make every life more human
in all its aspects.
Give us the grace...
When the sacredness of life
before birth is attacked,
to stand up and proclaim
that no one ever has the authority
to destroy unborn life.
When a child is described as a burden
or is looked upon only as a means
to satisfy an emotional need,
to stand up
and insist that every child is a unique
and unrepeatable gift of God,
a gift of God
with a right to a loving
and united family.
When the institution of marriage
is abandoned to human selfishness
or reduced to a temporary conditional arrangement
that can easily be terminated,
to stand up and affirm
the indissolubility of the marriage bond.
When the value of the family is threatened
because of social and economic pressure,
to stand up and reaffirm
that the family is necessary
not only for the private good of every person,
but also for the common good of every society,
nation and state.
When freedom is used to dominate the weak,
to squander natural resources and energy,
to deny basic necessities to people,
to stand up and affirm
the demands of justice and social love.
Almighty Father,
give us courage to proclaim the supreme dignity
of all human life and to demand
that society itself give its protection.
We ask this in your name,
through the redemptive act
of your Son and in the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Prayer When A Friend is Depressed (39)
Lord, I come before You with a heavy heart for my friend. He/She is struggling so much right now with the things happening in his/her life. I know You can be his/her greatest comfort. I know You can step in and make a difference. Show me how I can best help him/her. Give me the words and actions that will keep him/her see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Lord, let Your presence be felt in his/her life and let your comfort be what he/she needs. Amen.
PRAYERS FOR OURSELVES
Prayer for Choosing a State of Life (40)
From all eternity, O Lord, you planned my very existence and my destiny. You wrapped me in your love in baptism and gave me the faith to lead me to an eternal life of happiness with you. You have showered me with your graces and you have been always ready with your mercy and forgiveness when I have fallen. Now I beg you for the light I so earnestly need that I may find the way of life in which lies the best fulfillment of your will. Whatever state this may be, give me the grace necessary to embrace it with love of your holy will, as devotedly as your Mother did your will. I offer myself to you now, trusting in your wisdom and love to direct me in working out my salvation and in helping others to know and come close to you, so that I may find my reward in union with you for ever and ever. Amen.
Prayer for Stressful Times (41)
Lord, I'm just having some trouble managing this stressful time in my life. The stress is just getting to be too much for me, and I need your strength to get me through. I know you are a pillar for me to lean on in tough times, and I pray that you will continue to provide me with ways to make my life a little less burdensome.
Lord, I pray that you provide me your hand and walk me through the dark times. I ask that you reduce the burdens in my life or show me the path to get things done or rid myself of the things weighing me down. Thank you, Lord, for all you do in my life and how you will provide for me, even in these stressful times.
A Prayer When Facing Temptation (42)
Lord, thank you for all the wonderful things you have put in my life. Family, friends, a roof over my head, and food on my table. Thank you for the blessings you bestow on me every day. I am so grateful for all that you provide.
I try hard, Lord, not to stumble in my walk with you. Yet I find myself facing temptation is ways that lead me away from you. The temptation is strong. The desire is strong. Lord, please help me know the right way to turn. I know your Word on these things. I know that it would be so easy for me to give in and stumble yet again. But today I ask for your strength. Your guidance.
I cannot make my walk alone, Lord, and I know you are there to take my hand when I need you most. I know you are there to carry me when I cannot go on alone. I ask for that strength now, Lord. I ask for your will and your way. I ask for the strength you had in facing the Enemy in the desert.
Thank you, Lord, for being here for me when in my hour of need. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.
A Prayer for God's Grace for You (43)
Lord, I know you are merciful. I've been taught that you provide grace and mercy in spite of my behavior and in spite of my sins. You are a good God that comes to those that need You, no matter what. And Lord, I need you now in my life more than ever. I know that I'm not perfect. I know that my sins are not hidden from you. I know that, at times, I sin knowing it's a sin. I'm human, Lord, and while that's no excuse, I know you love me despite my human nature. Lord, I need you today to provide for me. I need your grace in my life to provide strength, because I am weak. I face temptations every day, and I wish I could say that I always walk away. I cannot do it alone any more. I just can't. I need you to give me the strength and provide me with the guidance to overcome these desires to sin. I need you to give me direction in darker times when I wonder if I can even face the next day. You can move the mountains that block my way in life. You can give to me what I need in my life. Please, Lord, I ask of you to come into my life and offer your grace. I am open to it and ready to accept it. Allow my heart to always be focused on You and make my desire to live for You. Lord, I know from the scripture that your grace is bestowed no matter what, so I just ask for it today. I may not always be perfect, but I strive to be better. Lord, help me be better. Help me see the clear, narrow path in front of me so I can walk in your ways and in your glory. In your name, Amen.
A Prayer for When You Need God's Forgiveness (44)
Lord, please forgive me for what I have done to you. I offer up this forgiveness prayer in hopes that you will look at my mistakes and know that I did not mean to hurt you. I know you know I'm not perfect. I know that what I did went against you, but I hope that you will forgive me, just as you forgive others like me. I will try, Lord, to change. I will make every attempt to not give into temptation again. I know that you are the most important thing in my life, Lord, and I know that what I did was disappointing. I ask, God, that you provide me with guidance in the future. I ask for the discerning ear and open heart to hear and feel what you are telling me to do. I pray that I will have the understanding to remember this time and that you give me the strength to go in a different direction. Lord, thank you for all you do for me. I pray that you pour your grace upon me. In your name, Amen.
A Prayer for Healing (45)
Lord, You invite all who are burdened to come to you. Allow Your healing Hand to heal me. Touch my soul with Your compassion for others; touch my heart with Your courage and infinite Love for all; touch my mind with Your Wisdom, and may my mouth always proclaim Your praise. Teach me to reach out to You in all my needs, and help me to lead others to You by my example.
Most loving Heart of Jesus, bring me health in body and spirit that I may serve You with all my strength. Touch gently this life which you have created, now and forever. Amen.
Prayer Before an Important Decision (46)
Lord, Almighty God,
source of light, truth, and eternal goodness,
transform this present moment into an hour of vision and inspiration.
Help me to find wisdom;
shed light on my thoughts.
May my aspirations come true through righteous and good deeds.
Give me the strength to concentrate,
to think objectively,
and to see clearly.
Shed your light on me so that I may see which decision to make.
Help me, O my Eternal God,
to avoid vanity and pride,
and thus be able to make worthy decisions as a true child of yours.
Amen.
For a Good Day at School or Work (47)
Lord, my God,
Thank You for this beautiful day.
Help my work today to be fruitful.
Help me to walk by Your side each moment
so I may be able to do Your will.
Bless all those I encounter today,
That they may receive You into their hearts.
Thank You for allowing me to know You
and to reflect Your love in my life.
Bless this day, Lord. Amen
Prayers Before Studying (48)
Holy Spirit, Giver of all good gifts, enter into my mind and heart. Give me the gift of knowledge and the grace to use it wisely. Help me in all my endeavors. Give me perseverance and fortitude. Help my memory, that I may remember what I learn and recall it when necessary. Guide me in the classroom. You who are the Way, the Truth, and the Life, let me not be deceived by false teaching. Our Lady of Good Studies, pray for me. Amen.
Prayer Before a Test (49)
Lord, today I am just really stressed. You know, Lord, that I am having some trouble with the test I am about to take. I know it's probably not the biggest world problem, with people starving, people turning away from you, people in wars, and more. But, Lord, it's what I'm facing right now, and I need you in this time. I know that no problem is too big or too small for you to handle, and I need to turn this stress over to you to help me with.
Lord, I just need to be able to focus. I need your help to look at this information so I can remember and apply it well on my exam. I need you to help me feel more confident going into the test and relax a bit so I can concentrate. Lord, please help the people around me to understand that I need to focus and study.
Also, Lord, help me when I walk into the exam. Give me the peace, when it is all said and done, to know that I walked in and did my best. I pray, Lord, for your guiding hand as I take the exam, and I ask for your welcome calm when I walk out of the classroom after.
Lord, thank you for all the blessings you have placed in my life. Thank you for being here in this time when I feel a bit overwhelmed. Thank you for always being there and allowing me to rely on you. Praise your name. Amen.
Prayer Before a Competition or Performance (50)
Lord, Please clear my head of all distractions
And my heart of burdens I may bear,
So I may perform my very best
Knowing you will always be there.
With great courage I will meet this challenge
As you would have me to,
But keep me humble and remind me
That my strength comes from You and only You.
Then when all eyes are upon me,
At the end of this (game or performance),
I will turn their eyes to You oh Lord,
And to the Glory of Your Name...
In Jesus Christ's name I pray, Amen!
Special Prayer in Time of Tribulation (51)
O Lord, hear my cry pouring out from a troubled heart. The sorrow which clutches at my soul has driven me to You my protector, my True Friend in time of need. You know, my God, all my failings, my faults and my sins as well as the torment gripping my soul. My greatest sorrow should be for my disregard of Your holy commandments in the past, and I sincerely hope that you will grant me the grace of true contrition. O my Savior, hide not Your Face from me in this tribulation, let the light of Your Countenance shine upon me that I may be illuminated by Its love. If it be Your will, lighten this burden from me, yet should it be a means of my salvation, help me, help me O Lord, to carry this cross, for alone I can do nothing. Radiate Your love upon Your prodigal child O Lord, this beggar who knocks at Your door seeking shelter in Your Sacred Heart; this once proud earthen vessel made of clay seeks You, O Christ, and in a newly found faith, firmly believes that you will receive him in Your limitless Love and Mercy. Amen
Prayer When Lonely (52)
My Heavenly Father!
You know how lonely I am! I come to You as a broken vessel longing for some love, care or attention. Master! You know what loneliness is, because You were despised and rejected by men when You were in this chaotic world. You were deserted by Your own people who did not even acknowledge You as Lord.
O Lord! I come to You in such a state that I have no one to turn to but You! I know that You went through the agonizing path of loneliness so that I need not be lonely. I plead for Your comforting presence to fill this void in me! Stretch out Your loving hands and lift me out of the pit of loneliness. You have assured that You will neither leave nor forsake me. So I cling to You Lord - let me derive strength, comfort and consolation from Your presence. Grant me Your abundant grace that I may rejoice with joy unspeakable.
I thank You for filling me with Your presence and removing this pain within me. You are always with me and I thank You for that. Continue to uphold me with Your righteous right hand.
In Jesus' Name - I Pray. Amen.
Prayer For Courage (53)
Dear God, give me courage,
for perhaps I lack it more than anything else.
I need courage before men against their threats
and against their seductions.
I need courage to bear unkindness,
mockery, contradiction.
I need courage to fight against the devil,
against terrors and troubles, temptations,
attractions, darkness and false lights,
against tears, depression, and above all fear.
I need Your help, dear God.
Strengthen me with Your love and Your grace.
Console me with Your blessed Presence
and grant me the courage to persevere
until I am with You forever in heaven.
Prayer When You are Depressed (54)
Lord, I come before You with a heavy heart. I feel so much and yet sometimes I feel nothing at all. I don't know where to turn, who to talk to, or how to deal with the things going on in my life. You see everything, Lord. You know everything, Lord. Yet when I seek you it is so hard to feel You here with me. Lord, help me through this. I don't see any other way to get out of this. There is no light at the end of my tunnel, yet everyone says You can show it to me. Lord, help me find that light. Let it be Your light. Give me someone to help. Let me feel You with me. Let me feel Your blessings and comfort. Amen.
PRAYERS OF THE SAINTS
St. Augustine's Prayer to the Holy Spirit (55)
Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy. Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy. Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, that I love but what is holy. Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy. Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy. Amen.
Prayer To St. Jude (56)
Most holy apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron Saint of lost cases, of things almost despaired of. Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone.
Make use I implore you, of that particular privilege given you, to bring
visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my
assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help and sufferings, particularly (make request known) and I may praise God with you and all the elect forever.
I promise, O blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor, to always honor you as my special powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. AMEN
St. Ignatius of Loyola's Prayer Against Depression (57)
O Christ Jesus
When all is darkness
And we feel our weakness and helplessness,
Give us the sense of Your Presence,
Your Love and Your Strength.
Help us to have perfect trust
In Your protecting love
And strengthening power,
So that nothing may frighten or worry us,
For, living close to You,
We shall see Your Hand,
Your Purpose, Your Will through all things.
St. Patrick’s Breastplate - Christ Be With Me (58)
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ where I lie, Christ where I sit, Christ where I arise,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of every one who speaks to me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
Salvation is of the Lord.
Salvation is of the Christ.
May your salvation, Lord, be ever with us.
St. Pio Prayer of Trust & Confidence (59)
O Lord, we ask for a boundless confidence and trust in Your divine mercy, and the courage to accept the crosses and sufferings which bring immense goodness to our souls and that of Your Church.
Help us to love You with a pure and contrite heart, and to humble ourselves beneath Your cross, as we climb the mountain of holiness, carrying our cross that leads to heavenly glory.
May we receive You with great faith and love in Holy Communion, and allow You to act in us, as You desire, for Your greater glory.
O Jesus, most adorable heart and eternal fountain of Divine Love, may our prayer find favor before the Divine Majesty of Your Heavenly Father. Amen.
Prayer of St. Francis (60)
Lord make me an instrument of your peace
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light
and where there is sadness, Joy.
O Divine Master grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned. And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony (61)
Holy Saint Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and Charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the saint of Miracles. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms; and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. AMEN
Thomas Merton’s Prayer of Abandonment (62)
My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following Your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please You does in fact please You. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that if I do this, You will lead me by the right road though I may know nothing about it. Therefore will I trust You always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for You are ever with me, and You will never leave me to face my perils alone. Amen.
Glory be to 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.
Our Father (2)
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.
Hail Mary (3)
Hail Mary, full of grace! the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among 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.
The Apostle’s Creed (4)
I believe in God, the Father of the Almighty, Creator of heaven and
earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only son, our Lord who was conceived
by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary suffered under Pontius
Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell; on
the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven and is seated at
the right hand of the Father; from thence 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 Contrition (5)
O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of Heaven, and the pains of Hell; but most of all because I love Thee, my God, Who art all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen.
Act of Faith (6)
O my God, I firmly believe that Thou art one God in three Divine Person, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; I believe that Thy 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 Thou hast revealed them, who canst neither deceive nor be deceived. Amen.
Act of Hope (7)
O my God, relying on Thy almighty power and infinite mercy and promises, I hope to obtain pardon of my sins, the help of Thy grace, and life everlasting, through the merits of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Redeemer. Amen.
Act of Charity (8)
O my God, I love Thee above all things, with my whole heart and soul, because Thou art all good and worthy of all love. I love my neighbor as myself for the love of Thee. I forgive all who have injured me, and ask pardon of all whom I have injured. Amen.
PRAYERS TO THE TRINITY
2014 Lima Life Teen Prayer (9)
I pray to you, God the Holy Spirit, and I give all of myself to you. I worship you for you are pure, just and powerful as love. You are my strength. You are my guide. I ask for you to surround me and change me. Change my mind to think like Jesus. Change my body to act like Jesus. Change my heart to love like Jesus. Give me the ears to hear your voice guiding me, and when I hear your voice, may I obey. Make me holy and joyful. Give me the courage I need to live as a missionary. May people come to know Jesus because I am in their lives. Amen
Prayer To Start the Day (10)
Lord, may this day be Yours.
May my actions glorify You.
May my words flow from You.
May my spirit find rest within You.
In Christ’s Name, Amen.
A Night Prayer (11)
Eternal Father,
I desire to rest in Thy Heart this night.
I make the intention of offering to Thee
every beat of my heart,
joining to them as many acts of love and desire.
I pray that even while I am asleep,
I will bring back to Thee souls that offend Thee.
I ask forgiveness for the whole world,
especially for those who know Thee and yet sin.
I offer to Thee my every breath and heartbeat
as a prayer of reparation. Amen.
The Serenity Prayer (12)
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.
Suscipe (13)
Take, O Lord, and receive my entire liberty, my memory, my understanding and my whole will. All that I am and all that I possess, Thou hast given me: I surrender it all to Thee to be disposed of according to Thy will. Give me only Thy love and Thy grace; with these I will be rich enough and will desire nothing more. Amen.
The Prayer "Thank You God" (14)
For all You have given, Thank You God.
For all You have withheld, Thank You God.
For all You have withdrawn, Thank You God.
For all You have permitted, Thank You God.
For all You have prevented, Thank You God.
For all You have forgiven me, Thank You God.
For all You have prepared for me, Thank You God.
For the death You have chosen for me, Thank you God.
For the place you are keeping for me in heaven, Thank You God.
For having created me to love You for eternity,Thank You God.
Anima Christi (15)
Soul of Christ, sanctify me;
Body of Christ, save me;
Blood of Christ, inebriate me;
Water from the side of Christ, wash me;
Passion of Christ, strengthen me;
O good Jesus, hear me;
Within Your wounds, hide me;
Separated from You, let me never be;
From the evil one, protect me;
At the hour of my death, call me;
And close to You, bid me;
That with Your saints, I may be, praising You forever and ever. Amen
Generous God (16)
Generous God,
We give thanks to You for the gifts You have given us:
life, family, friends,
time, talents, and material possessions.
All that we have comes from You.
Help us to remember this
and rejoice in Your goodness.
Walk with us, Lord.
Help us on our spiritual journey,
so that we may constantly renew our relationship with You
and all the good people in our families,
our parish, our community, our country and our world.
Renew in us your Spirit.
Give us the strength and courage
to become better followers of Jesus;
to become His disciples.
Help us hear the call to "Come, Follow Me."
Amen
An Act of Spiritual Communion (17)
My Jesus,
I believe that You
are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things,
and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.
A Prayer of Gratitude (18)
Thank you, Lord, for the blessings you have bestowed on my life. You have provided me with more than I could ever have imagined. You have surrounded me with people who always look out for me. You have given me family and friends who bless me every day with kind words and actions. They lift me up in ways that keep my eyes focused on you and make my spirit soar.
Also, thank you, Lord, for keeping me safe. You protect me from those things that seem to haunt others. You help me make better choices, and you have provided me with advisors that help me with the difficult decisions. You speak to me in so many ways so that I always know you are here.
And Lord, I am so grateful for keeping those around me safe and loved. I hope that you provide me with the ability and sense to show them every day how much they matter. I hope that you give me the ability to give to them the same kindness they have provided to me. I am just so grateful for all of your blessings in my life, Lord. I pray that you remind me of just how lucky I am, and that you never allow me to forget to show my gratitude in prayer and returned kind acts. Thank you, Lord. In your name, Amen.
A Prayer for Healing (19)
Lord, You invite all who are burdened to come to you. Allow Your healing Hand to heal me. Touch my soul with Your compassion for others; touch my heart with Your courage and infinite Love for all; touch my mind with Your Wisdom, and may my mouth always proclaim Your praise. Teach me to reach out to You in all my needs, and help me to lead others to You by my example.
Most loving Heart of Jesus, bring me health in body and spirit that I may serve You with all my strength. Touch gently this life which you have created, now and forever. Amen.
Prayer of Abandonment (20)
Father,
I abandon myself into your hands;
do with me what you will.
Whatever you may do, I thank you:
I am ready for all, I accept all.
Let only your will be done in me,
and in all your creatures -
I wish no more than this, O Lord.
Into your hands I commend my soul:
I offer it to you with all the love of my heart,
for I love you, Lord, and so need to give myself,
to surrender myself into your hands without reserve,
and with boundless confidence,
for you are my Father.
A Universal Prayer For All Things Necessary To Salvation (21)
My God, I believe in You; strengthen my faith. All my hopes are in You; secure them. I love You; teach me to love you daily more and more. I am sorry that I have offended You; increase my sorrow.
I adore you as the Author of my first beginning. I aspire after you as my last end. I give you thanks as my constant Benefactor, I call upon you as my sovereign Protector.
My God, be pleased to conduct me by your wisdom; to restrain me by the thought of Your justice; to comfort me by Your mercy; to defend me by Your power.
To You I desire to consecrate all my thoughts, words, deeds, and suffering, that henceforth I may think of you, speak of you, refer all my actions to You greater glory, and suffer willingly whatever You shall appoint.
Lord, I desire that in all things Your Will be done, because it is Your Will, and I desire that all things be done in the manner that You will them.
Grant that I may always esteem whatsoever is pleasing to You, despise what You abhor, avoid what You forbid, and do what you command.
I beg You to enlighten my understanding, to inflame my will, to purify my body, and to sanctify my soul.
My God, give me strength to atone for my sins, to overcome my temptations, to subdue my passions, and to acquire the virtues proper to my state of life.
Fill my heart with tender affection for Your goodness, hatred of my faults, love of my neighbor, and contempt of the world. May Your grace help me to be obedient to my superiors, kind and courteous to my inferiors, faithful to my friends, and charitable to my enemies.
Assist me to overcome sensuality by self-sacrifice, avarice by almsdeeds, anger by meekness, and carelessness by devotion. My God, make me prudent in my undertakings, courageous in danger, patient in trials, and humble in success.
Grant that I may be ever attentive at my prayers, temperate at my meals, diligent in my work, and faithful in my good resolutions.
Let my conscience be ever upright and pure, my behavior modest, my conversation kind, and my actions edifying.
Assist me that I may continually strive to overcome the evil inclinations of my nature, to cooperate with Your grace, to keep Your commandments, and to work out my salvation.
My God, make me realize the nothingness of this world, the greatness of heaven, the shortness of time, and the length of eternity.
Grant that I may prepare for death; that I may fear Your judgment; that I may escape hell and in the end obtain heaven. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer for the Sick (22)
Father of goodness and love, hear our prayers for the sick members of our community and for all who are in need. Amid mental and physical suffering may they find consolation in your healing presence. Show your mercy as you close wounds, cure illness, make broken bodies whole and free downcast spirits. May these special people find lasting health and deliverance, and so join us in thanking you for all your gifts. We ask this through the Lord Jesus who healed those who believed. Amen.
Prayer of Praise and Thanks (23)
Blessed are you, Lord God:
Blessed are you for ever.
Holy is your name:
Blessed are you for ever.
Great is your mercy for your people:
Blessed are you for ever.
Amen!
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
We praise you and give you glory:
We bless you for calling us to be your holy people.
Remain in our hearts,
And guide us in our love and service.
Help us to let our light shine before others
And lead them to the way of faith.
Holy Trinity of love,
We praise you now and for ever.
Amen!
We praise you, Father of all;
We thank you for calling us to be your people,
And for choosing us to give you glory.
In a special way we thank you for...
(State your intention here.)
Cleanse our hearts and our lives
With your holy word
And make our prayer pleasing to you.
Guide us by your Spirit
As we follow in the paths of Jesus our brother.
All glory and praise are yours, Father,
For ever and ever.
Amen!
Let us give glory to the Father
Through the Son
In the Holy Spirit,
For God has made us his people, his Church,
And calls us to sing his praises.
All honor and glory and thanks are his,
And praise and worship belong to him.
To God be glory in his Church
For ever and ever!
Amen!
Thanks for a beautiful day: On a beautiful day,
we may thank God and praise him for his many gifts.
Father of Jesus,
We praise you and give you glory
For the wonderful things you do for us;
For life and health,
for friends and family,
for this splendid day.
For these reasons, we pray as Jesus taught us:
Our Father... (Recite the 'Our Father' here.)
Come, Holy Spirit (24)
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Thy faithful and enkindle in them the fire of Thy love.
V. Send forth Thy Spirit and they shall be created.
R. And Thou shalt renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray. O God, Who didst instruct the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise, and ever to rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer For The Seven Gifts Of The Holy Spirit (25)
Christ Jesus,
before ascending into heaven,
You promised to send the Holy Spirit
to Your apostles and disciples.
Grant that the same Spirit
may perfect in our lives the work
of Your grace and love.
Grant us the Spirit of Fear Of The Lord that
we may be filled with a loving reverence toward You.
The Spirit of Piety
that we may find peace and fulfillment
in the service of God while serving others;
The Spirit of Fortitude
that we may bear our cross with You
and, with courage, overcome the obstacles
that interfere with our salvation;
The Spirit of Knowledge
that we may know You and know ourselves
and grow in holiness;
The Spirit of Understanding
to enlighten our minds
with the light of Your truth;
The Spirit of Counsel
that we may choose the surest way of doing Your will,
seeking first the Kingdom;
Grant us the Spirit of Wisdom
that we may aspire
to the things that last forever;
Teach us to be Your faithful disciples
and animate us in every way with Your Spirit. Amen.
PRAYERS TO MARY
Memorare (26)
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help or sought thy intercession, was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O virgin of virgins, My Mother. To thee I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate! Despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy, hear and answer me. Amen
Magnificat (27)
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior;
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is His Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm;
He has cast down the might from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel,
for He has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise He made to our father,
to Abraham and his children forever. Amen.
Hail, Holy Queen (28)
Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail, 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 vale of tears. Turn then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus, O merciful, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary! Amen.
PRAYERS FOR OTHERS
For Helping a Friend (29)
Lord, grant me the strength, the courage, the patience, and the humility I need to help my friend. Let me love selflessly by Your supreme example. Holy Spirit, fill me with Your grace so that my words become Yours. Thank You for being my support and comfort so that I may support and comfort my friend. Amen
A Prayer for God's Grace for Someone Else (30)
Lord, thank you for all you do in my life. I know, Lord, that we are imperfect people living in imperfect times, but Lord, some of us need your grace in a mighty way. Lord, please protect this person against the things that pull them away from you. Let that person live in you as you desire. Give them the strength during this rough patch in their life. Let your desires be their desires. Lord, please provid your grace through protection from the harm that seems to come to them physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Please give htem strength to get through each day, because you are there to provide it for them. Lord, I ask that you cover them in grace for healing and for direction. Please, Lord, give me the strength to be honest with them so that I can be an instrument of grace. Let me be more like you by providing them unconditional love - something they so need in their lives. Give them a path and let them see clearly what needs to be done. I ask you Lord to provide as you always do - to move the mountains of doubt and pain that fill their lives. In your holy name, Amen.
Strength for a Friend (31)
Lord, I come before you today knowing that all power is in Your hand. I know that you are the Lord and that you care for your people. Right now, my friend is struggling with a difficult trial. I can see her/his strength is faltering, Lord, and know that you have all of the strength that she/he needs.
I pray that you will reach down and touch her/him right now wherever she/he is at this moment. Let your presence fill the room where she/he is and let her/him feel an extra portion of your strength that can help her/him to get through this day.
She/he needs you now, Lord, and I thank you in advance for meeting her/him where she/he is and shoring up her/his strength during this difficult time. In Jesus name. Amen.
Praying for Your Troops (32)
Lord, there is so much going on in our world, from wars to poverty. Please help our troops to do the right thing for those in need around the world. Give them the strength and courage to protect and serve our country and bring light to those living in darkness. Help them to build homes and schools, protect mothers and children, and encourage those to see that there is hope in the world. Also, help them to keep us safe in our homes. Let them know that they are appreciated for all that they do for us, Lord, and let us be respectful to those that return home from service to their country. Protect and guide them through their missions, and go before them to shield them, Lord. Let your hand be upon them as they carry on in our nation's name. Thank you for all that you do, Lord. Amen.
Prayer for Your Country (33)
Lord, thank you for allowing me to live in this country. Lord, I live up my country to you for blessings today. I thank you for allowing me to live in a place that lets me pray to you every day, that lets me speak out my beliefs. Thank you for the blessing that this country is to me and my family.
Lord, I ask that you continue to have your hand on this nation, and that you provide the leaders with the wisdom to guide us in the right direction. Even if they are not believers, Lord, I ask that you speak to them in different ways so that they make decisions that honor you and make our lives better. Lord, I pray that they continue to do what is best for all the people in the country, that they continue to provide for the poor and downtrodden, and that they have the patience and discernment to do what is right.
I also pray, Lord for our country's safety. I ask that you bless the soldiers that guard our borders. I ask that you keep those that live her safe from others who would do us harm for being free, for worshiping you, and for allowing people to speak freely. I pray, Lord, that we one day see an end to the fighting and that our soldiers come safely home in a world that is both grateful and no longer needs them to fight.
Lord, I continue to pray for this country's prosperity. Even in hard times, I ask for your hand in programs that help those who have problems helping themselves. I thank you for your hand in already helping those who do not have homes, jobs, and more. I pray, Lord, that our people continue to find ways to bless those that feel alone or helpless. Again, Lord, I pray from a place of thankfulness that I have been given a gift like living in this country. Thank you for all of our blessings, thank you for your provisions and protections. In Your Name, Amen."
A Prayer for Our Teachers (34)
Lord, thank you so much for all the blessings you have provided in my life. I ask you to extend those same blessings to the people I see every day in school- my teachers. Lord, let them teach me well, and let them never lose their heart for their students.
Lord, I ask that you make yourself a part of their lives whether they believer or not. Let them be examples of your light to others. Also, if they have hardships in their own lives, I ask that you provide for them and their families.
Thank you, Lord, for allowing me to learn from so many different people. Thank you for allowing my teachers in my life to reach out to me and help me grow in so many ways. I thank you for the freedom to learn and for giving my teachers the desire to be those that educate me. I ask your continued blessings. In your holy name, Amen.
The Daily Prayer For Priests (35)
O Jesus, I pray for your faithful and fervent priests;
for your unfaithful and tepid priests;
for your priests laboring at home or abroad in distant mission fields.
for your tempted priests;
for your lonely and desolate priest
for your young priests;
for your dying priests;
for the souls of your priests in Purgatory.
But above all, I recommend to you the priests dearest to me:
the priest who baptized me;
the priests who absolved me from my sins;
the priests at whose Masses I assisted and who gave me Your Body and Blood in Holy Communion;
the priests who taught and instructed me;
all the priests to whom I am indebted in any other way (especially …).
O Jesus, keep them all close to your heart,
and bless them abundantly in time and in eternity. Amen.
Prayer for Your Youth Leaders (36)
Thank you, Lord, for putting my youth leaders into my life. They provide me with so much love and support, and I know that they make many sacrifices in order to be there for me. I ask you, Lord, to provide for them emotionally and physically so that they can continue to do your will in my life and the lives of the other students in the church. I ask you, Lord, to continue to put a burden on their heart for those that need them most and to direct their path so that your will is done. Let them know that they are loved and blessed. In Your Name, Amen.
Prayer for the UnderprivILeged and Poor (37)
Lord, I know that you have given me so much. You provide a roof over my head. You provide me with an abundance of food on my table. I have friends and the opportunity to get an education. I have conveniences like computers, iPods, and iPads. You have blessed me in my life with so many things that I don't even know. How you keep me safe, how you protect those I love, how you give me an opportunity every single day to love you. I cannot express enough how grateful I am for these things. I do not know if I could handle any less, but I do know that you would be there beside me to give me strength just as you do now.
But Lord, there are so many other people who have so much less than I do. There are those that have no idea what life is like outside of depravity. There are those living every night on the streets, faced with dangers beyond my imagination. There are scary threats that face them every day, and every day is a struggle for them to live. There are those with health and psychological issues that cannot live normally that just need your protection. There are people that cannot seem to find their way through life that may not know how to hear you, but you can be there with them anyhow.
And Lord, I know there are people around the world starving. There isn't enough food to always go around. Water is contaminated and a commodity that some areas on the earth do not have. There are children dying every day from starvation. And there are those facing daily abuse from those they love or look up to. There are damages done to people every day psychologically, emotionally, and physically. There are girls oppressed in countries where they cannot study to grow out of their oppression. There are places where an education is such a privilege a majority of people never have the opportunity to learn. There are so many underprivileged people in the world, and I lift them all up to you.
I ask you, Lord, to intervene in these cases. I know that you have a plan, and I don't know what that plan is or why these bad things happen, but you say that the poor in spirit will inherit the kingdom of heaven. I pray that you will find a place for those that live thier lives underprivileged and suffering. I also pray, Lord, that you always give me a heart for those who have less, so that I always feel a need to do your work here. I pray that I can life those up and touch lives that need me. In Your name, Amen.
Prayer for the Unborn Child (38)
Almighty God, our Father,
you who have given us life
and intended us to have it forever,
grant us your blessings.
Enlighten our minds to an awareness
and to a renewed conviction
that all human life is sacred
because it is created
in your image and likeness.
Help us to teach by word
and the example of our lives
that life occupies the first place,
that human life is precious
because it is the gift of God
whose love is infinite.
Give us the strength to defend human life
against every influence
or action that threatens or weakens it,
as well as the strength
to make every life more human
in all its aspects.
Give us the grace...
When the sacredness of life
before birth is attacked,
to stand up and proclaim
that no one ever has the authority
to destroy unborn life.
When a child is described as a burden
or is looked upon only as a means
to satisfy an emotional need,
to stand up
and insist that every child is a unique
and unrepeatable gift of God,
a gift of God
with a right to a loving
and united family.
When the institution of marriage
is abandoned to human selfishness
or reduced to a temporary conditional arrangement
that can easily be terminated,
to stand up and affirm
the indissolubility of the marriage bond.
When the value of the family is threatened
because of social and economic pressure,
to stand up and reaffirm
that the family is necessary
not only for the private good of every person,
but also for the common good of every society,
nation and state.
When freedom is used to dominate the weak,
to squander natural resources and energy,
to deny basic necessities to people,
to stand up and affirm
the demands of justice and social love.
Almighty Father,
give us courage to proclaim the supreme dignity
of all human life and to demand
that society itself give its protection.
We ask this in your name,
through the redemptive act
of your Son and in the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Prayer When A Friend is Depressed (39)
Lord, I come before You with a heavy heart for my friend. He/She is struggling so much right now with the things happening in his/her life. I know You can be his/her greatest comfort. I know You can step in and make a difference. Show me how I can best help him/her. Give me the words and actions that will keep him/her see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Lord, let Your presence be felt in his/her life and let your comfort be what he/she needs. Amen.
PRAYERS FOR OURSELVES
Prayer for Choosing a State of Life (40)
From all eternity, O Lord, you planned my very existence and my destiny. You wrapped me in your love in baptism and gave me the faith to lead me to an eternal life of happiness with you. You have showered me with your graces and you have been always ready with your mercy and forgiveness when I have fallen. Now I beg you for the light I so earnestly need that I may find the way of life in which lies the best fulfillment of your will. Whatever state this may be, give me the grace necessary to embrace it with love of your holy will, as devotedly as your Mother did your will. I offer myself to you now, trusting in your wisdom and love to direct me in working out my salvation and in helping others to know and come close to you, so that I may find my reward in union with you for ever and ever. Amen.
Prayer for Stressful Times (41)
Lord, I'm just having some trouble managing this stressful time in my life. The stress is just getting to be too much for me, and I need your strength to get me through. I know you are a pillar for me to lean on in tough times, and I pray that you will continue to provide me with ways to make my life a little less burdensome.
Lord, I pray that you provide me your hand and walk me through the dark times. I ask that you reduce the burdens in my life or show me the path to get things done or rid myself of the things weighing me down. Thank you, Lord, for all you do in my life and how you will provide for me, even in these stressful times.
A Prayer When Facing Temptation (42)
Lord, thank you for all the wonderful things you have put in my life. Family, friends, a roof over my head, and food on my table. Thank you for the blessings you bestow on me every day. I am so grateful for all that you provide.
I try hard, Lord, not to stumble in my walk with you. Yet I find myself facing temptation is ways that lead me away from you. The temptation is strong. The desire is strong. Lord, please help me know the right way to turn. I know your Word on these things. I know that it would be so easy for me to give in and stumble yet again. But today I ask for your strength. Your guidance.
I cannot make my walk alone, Lord, and I know you are there to take my hand when I need you most. I know you are there to carry me when I cannot go on alone. I ask for that strength now, Lord. I ask for your will and your way. I ask for the strength you had in facing the Enemy in the desert.
Thank you, Lord, for being here for me when in my hour of need. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.
A Prayer for God's Grace for You (43)
Lord, I know you are merciful. I've been taught that you provide grace and mercy in spite of my behavior and in spite of my sins. You are a good God that comes to those that need You, no matter what. And Lord, I need you now in my life more than ever. I know that I'm not perfect. I know that my sins are not hidden from you. I know that, at times, I sin knowing it's a sin. I'm human, Lord, and while that's no excuse, I know you love me despite my human nature. Lord, I need you today to provide for me. I need your grace in my life to provide strength, because I am weak. I face temptations every day, and I wish I could say that I always walk away. I cannot do it alone any more. I just can't. I need you to give me the strength and provide me with the guidance to overcome these desires to sin. I need you to give me direction in darker times when I wonder if I can even face the next day. You can move the mountains that block my way in life. You can give to me what I need in my life. Please, Lord, I ask of you to come into my life and offer your grace. I am open to it and ready to accept it. Allow my heart to always be focused on You and make my desire to live for You. Lord, I know from the scripture that your grace is bestowed no matter what, so I just ask for it today. I may not always be perfect, but I strive to be better. Lord, help me be better. Help me see the clear, narrow path in front of me so I can walk in your ways and in your glory. In your name, Amen.
A Prayer for When You Need God's Forgiveness (44)
Lord, please forgive me for what I have done to you. I offer up this forgiveness prayer in hopes that you will look at my mistakes and know that I did not mean to hurt you. I know you know I'm not perfect. I know that what I did went against you, but I hope that you will forgive me, just as you forgive others like me. I will try, Lord, to change. I will make every attempt to not give into temptation again. I know that you are the most important thing in my life, Lord, and I know that what I did was disappointing. I ask, God, that you provide me with guidance in the future. I ask for the discerning ear and open heart to hear and feel what you are telling me to do. I pray that I will have the understanding to remember this time and that you give me the strength to go in a different direction. Lord, thank you for all you do for me. I pray that you pour your grace upon me. In your name, Amen.
A Prayer for Healing (45)
Lord, You invite all who are burdened to come to you. Allow Your healing Hand to heal me. Touch my soul with Your compassion for others; touch my heart with Your courage and infinite Love for all; touch my mind with Your Wisdom, and may my mouth always proclaim Your praise. Teach me to reach out to You in all my needs, and help me to lead others to You by my example.
Most loving Heart of Jesus, bring me health in body and spirit that I may serve You with all my strength. Touch gently this life which you have created, now and forever. Amen.
Prayer Before an Important Decision (46)
Lord, Almighty God,
source of light, truth, and eternal goodness,
transform this present moment into an hour of vision and inspiration.
Help me to find wisdom;
shed light on my thoughts.
May my aspirations come true through righteous and good deeds.
Give me the strength to concentrate,
to think objectively,
and to see clearly.
Shed your light on me so that I may see which decision to make.
Help me, O my Eternal God,
to avoid vanity and pride,
and thus be able to make worthy decisions as a true child of yours.
Amen.
For a Good Day at School or Work (47)
Lord, my God,
Thank You for this beautiful day.
Help my work today to be fruitful.
Help me to walk by Your side each moment
so I may be able to do Your will.
Bless all those I encounter today,
That they may receive You into their hearts.
Thank You for allowing me to know You
and to reflect Your love in my life.
Bless this day, Lord. Amen
Prayers Before Studying (48)
Holy Spirit, Giver of all good gifts, enter into my mind and heart. Give me the gift of knowledge and the grace to use it wisely. Help me in all my endeavors. Give me perseverance and fortitude. Help my memory, that I may remember what I learn and recall it when necessary. Guide me in the classroom. You who are the Way, the Truth, and the Life, let me not be deceived by false teaching. Our Lady of Good Studies, pray for me. Amen.
Prayer Before a Test (49)
Lord, today I am just really stressed. You know, Lord, that I am having some trouble with the test I am about to take. I know it's probably not the biggest world problem, with people starving, people turning away from you, people in wars, and more. But, Lord, it's what I'm facing right now, and I need you in this time. I know that no problem is too big or too small for you to handle, and I need to turn this stress over to you to help me with.
Lord, I just need to be able to focus. I need your help to look at this information so I can remember and apply it well on my exam. I need you to help me feel more confident going into the test and relax a bit so I can concentrate. Lord, please help the people around me to understand that I need to focus and study.
Also, Lord, help me when I walk into the exam. Give me the peace, when it is all said and done, to know that I walked in and did my best. I pray, Lord, for your guiding hand as I take the exam, and I ask for your welcome calm when I walk out of the classroom after.
Lord, thank you for all the blessings you have placed in my life. Thank you for being here in this time when I feel a bit overwhelmed. Thank you for always being there and allowing me to rely on you. Praise your name. Amen.
Prayer Before a Competition or Performance (50)
Lord, Please clear my head of all distractions
And my heart of burdens I may bear,
So I may perform my very best
Knowing you will always be there.
With great courage I will meet this challenge
As you would have me to,
But keep me humble and remind me
That my strength comes from You and only You.
Then when all eyes are upon me,
At the end of this (game or performance),
I will turn their eyes to You oh Lord,
And to the Glory of Your Name...
In Jesus Christ's name I pray, Amen!
Special Prayer in Time of Tribulation (51)
O Lord, hear my cry pouring out from a troubled heart. The sorrow which clutches at my soul has driven me to You my protector, my True Friend in time of need. You know, my God, all my failings, my faults and my sins as well as the torment gripping my soul. My greatest sorrow should be for my disregard of Your holy commandments in the past, and I sincerely hope that you will grant me the grace of true contrition. O my Savior, hide not Your Face from me in this tribulation, let the light of Your Countenance shine upon me that I may be illuminated by Its love. If it be Your will, lighten this burden from me, yet should it be a means of my salvation, help me, help me O Lord, to carry this cross, for alone I can do nothing. Radiate Your love upon Your prodigal child O Lord, this beggar who knocks at Your door seeking shelter in Your Sacred Heart; this once proud earthen vessel made of clay seeks You, O Christ, and in a newly found faith, firmly believes that you will receive him in Your limitless Love and Mercy. Amen
Prayer When Lonely (52)
My Heavenly Father!
You know how lonely I am! I come to You as a broken vessel longing for some love, care or attention. Master! You know what loneliness is, because You were despised and rejected by men when You were in this chaotic world. You were deserted by Your own people who did not even acknowledge You as Lord.
O Lord! I come to You in such a state that I have no one to turn to but You! I know that You went through the agonizing path of loneliness so that I need not be lonely. I plead for Your comforting presence to fill this void in me! Stretch out Your loving hands and lift me out of the pit of loneliness. You have assured that You will neither leave nor forsake me. So I cling to You Lord - let me derive strength, comfort and consolation from Your presence. Grant me Your abundant grace that I may rejoice with joy unspeakable.
I thank You for filling me with Your presence and removing this pain within me. You are always with me and I thank You for that. Continue to uphold me with Your righteous right hand.
In Jesus' Name - I Pray. Amen.
Prayer For Courage (53)
Dear God, give me courage,
for perhaps I lack it more than anything else.
I need courage before men against their threats
and against their seductions.
I need courage to bear unkindness,
mockery, contradiction.
I need courage to fight against the devil,
against terrors and troubles, temptations,
attractions, darkness and false lights,
against tears, depression, and above all fear.
I need Your help, dear God.
Strengthen me with Your love and Your grace.
Console me with Your blessed Presence
and grant me the courage to persevere
until I am with You forever in heaven.
Prayer When You are Depressed (54)
Lord, I come before You with a heavy heart. I feel so much and yet sometimes I feel nothing at all. I don't know where to turn, who to talk to, or how to deal with the things going on in my life. You see everything, Lord. You know everything, Lord. Yet when I seek you it is so hard to feel You here with me. Lord, help me through this. I don't see any other way to get out of this. There is no light at the end of my tunnel, yet everyone says You can show it to me. Lord, help me find that light. Let it be Your light. Give me someone to help. Let me feel You with me. Let me feel Your blessings and comfort. Amen.
PRAYERS OF THE SAINTS
St. Augustine's Prayer to the Holy Spirit (55)
Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy. Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy. Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, that I love but what is holy. Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy. Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy. Amen.
Prayer To St. Jude (56)
Most holy apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron Saint of lost cases, of things almost despaired of. Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone.
Make use I implore you, of that particular privilege given you, to bring
visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my
assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help and sufferings, particularly (make request known) and I may praise God with you and all the elect forever.
I promise, O blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor, to always honor you as my special powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. AMEN
St. Ignatius of Loyola's Prayer Against Depression (57)
O Christ Jesus
When all is darkness
And we feel our weakness and helplessness,
Give us the sense of Your Presence,
Your Love and Your Strength.
Help us to have perfect trust
In Your protecting love
And strengthening power,
So that nothing may frighten or worry us,
For, living close to You,
We shall see Your Hand,
Your Purpose, Your Will through all things.
St. Patrick’s Breastplate - Christ Be With Me (58)
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ where I lie, Christ where I sit, Christ where I arise,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of every one who speaks to me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
Salvation is of the Lord.
Salvation is of the Christ.
May your salvation, Lord, be ever with us.
St. Pio Prayer of Trust & Confidence (59)
O Lord, we ask for a boundless confidence and trust in Your divine mercy, and the courage to accept the crosses and sufferings which bring immense goodness to our souls and that of Your Church.
Help us to love You with a pure and contrite heart, and to humble ourselves beneath Your cross, as we climb the mountain of holiness, carrying our cross that leads to heavenly glory.
May we receive You with great faith and love in Holy Communion, and allow You to act in us, as You desire, for Your greater glory.
O Jesus, most adorable heart and eternal fountain of Divine Love, may our prayer find favor before the Divine Majesty of Your Heavenly Father. Amen.
Prayer of St. Francis (60)
Lord make me an instrument of your peace
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light
and where there is sadness, Joy.
O Divine Master grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned. And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony (61)
Holy Saint Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and Charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the saint of Miracles. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms; and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. AMEN
Thomas Merton’s Prayer of Abandonment (62)
My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following Your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please You does in fact please You. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that if I do this, You will lead me by the right road though I may know nothing about it. Therefore will I trust You always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for You are ever with me, and You will never leave me to face my perils alone. Amen.
