At the close of the day we pause to thank God for his gifts, to ask pardon for our failings, and to place the coming night in his hands. This evening prayer gathers up the whole day in gratitude.
The Prayer
O my God, at the end of this day
I thank you most heartily
for all the graces I have received from you.
I am sorry that I have not made better use of them.
I am sorry for all the sins I have committed against you.
Forgive me, O my God,
and graciously protect me this night.
Blessed Virgin Mary, my dear heavenly Mother,
take me under your protection.
St Joseph, my dear Guardian Angel, and all you saints of God,
pray for me.
Sweet Jesus, have pity on all poor sinners,
and save them from hell.
Have mercy on the souls in purgatory. Amen.
When to Pray This Prayer
Each night before sleep, alone or with the family, to close the day in God's peace.
About This Prayer
The Church has always sanctified the evening with prayer, as at Vespers and Compline, entrusting the darkness of night to the One who is our light.
Related Prayers
New prayers every week. Subscribe to Universal Catholic Media on YouTube to pray along.
Text: traditional Catholic evening prayer.