Prayer Before Sleep
A peaceful prayer to pray before bed, releasing the day and resting in God's care
The Prayer Before Sleep helps you release the day and rest in God's care. It looks back with thanks, asks forgiveness for failings and entrusts the night, your family and the people you worry about to him. Catholics have always ended the day with prayer, from the monks' Compline to children's bedtime prayers. A short version before bed can soften the mind and make sleep easier. Over time, this simple routine becomes a gift to your body and soul, ending the day with peace instead of screens. Keep it by your bed, and teach it to children as they learn to pray.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayPrayer Before Sleep
Lord, the day is done and the night has come. I place this day and all that happened in it into Your merciful hands.
Thank You for the blessings of today — for every moment of grace, every act of kindness I received, and every breath You gave me. Forgive me for the times I failed today — the unkind words, the missed opportunities to love, the moments I forgot You.
As I lay down to sleep, quiet my mind. Release me from the worries of tomorrow, for tomorrow belongs to You. Guard my rest and protect me through the night. Send Your holy angels to watch over me and my loved ones.
Into Your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit. If I should not wake, receive me into Your kingdom. If I wake to a new day, let it be lived entirely for You.
Visit, we beseech You, O Lord, this dwelling, and drive far from it all snares of the enemy. Let Your holy angels dwell within it to preserve us in peace, and let Your blessing be upon us, through Christ our Lord.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
ABOUT THIS PRAYER:
The tradition of night prayer (Compline) is one of the oldest practices in the Church. The antiphon "Visit, we beseech You, O Lord, this dwelling" comes from the traditional Compline liturgy and has been prayed by Christians for over a thousand years.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Prayer Before Sleep?
Pray it in bed or just before lights out.
How do I pray the Prayer Before Sleep?
Read it slowly, name one thing you are grateful for, and let go of one worry.
Who is the Prayer Before Sleep for?
Everyone, especially people with restless nights and parents praying with children.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play