Evening Prayer is part of the daily prayer of the Church, offering reflection, gratitude, and trust in God as the day draws to a close.
Suggested Time
Before bed or after dinner
Evening Examination of Conscience
From the Ignatian tradition (St Ignatius of Loyola), widely used in Irish Catholic prayer and retreats.
Take a few moments to reflect on your day:
- For what moment today am I most grateful?
- For what moment today am I least grateful?
- When did I feel most alive today?
- When did I feel drained or discouraged?
- When did I give and receive the most love today?
Act of Contrition
O my God,
I am sorry for my sins with all my heart.
In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good,
I have sinned against You, whom I should love above all things.
I firmly intend, with Your help,
to do penance, to sin no more,
and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.
Our Saviour Jesus Christ suffered and died for us.
In His name, my God, have mercy.
Amen.
Prayer Before Sleep
From Night Prayer (Compline), Liturgy of the Hours; traditionally attributed to St John Chrysostom.
Visit, we pray, O Lord, this home,
and drive far from it all the snares of the enemy.
Let Your holy angels dwell here to keep us in peace,
and may Your blessing remain upon us always.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Prayer for God’s Protection
From Night Prayer (Compline), Liturgy of the Hours.
Watch, O Lord, with those who wake or watch or weep this night,
and give Your angels charge over those who sleep.
Care for the sick, O Lord Christ.
Give rest to the weary.
Bless the dying.
Soothe those who suffer.
Have compassion on the afflicted.
Protect those who rejoice.
And do this for all Your love’s sake.
Amen.
Pray Today’s Rosary
End your evening prayer with an Our Father, three Hail Marys, and a Glory Be. Ask your Guardian Angel to watch over you through the night.