Prayer Before Work
A prayer to begin the workday with purpose, dedicating all efforts to God's glory
The Prayer Before Work offers the day's tasks to God, asking that your effort glorify him and serve others. It reflects the Catholic belief that ordinary work can be holy, as shown by Joseph the carpenter. A few seconds of prayer at the start turns a desk, a classroom or a kitchen into a place of service. It is also a way to ask for patience with colleagues. It can be said aloud or silently, in a minute, and repeated whenever a task becomes stressful. The idea is simple: Lord, this is for you. It softens the work and lifts it above mere survival.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayPrayer Before Work
Lord God, as I begin my work today, I offer it all to You. Every task, every conversation, every challenge — let it all be done for Your glory.
Grant me focus and energy for the work ahead. Give me patience with difficult tasks and difficult people. Help me to work with integrity, honesty, and excellence, not to impress others but because You see all things and deserve my best.
Bless my colleagues and those I serve through my work. Help me to be a light in my workplace — kind, reliable, and generous. If conflicts arise, give me wisdom. If I am overwhelmed, give me strength. If I am tempted to cut corners or compromise my values, give me courage to do what is right.
St. Joseph, patron of workers, you labored faithfully to provide for the Holy Family. Teach me to find dignity and holiness in my daily work, however humble it may seem.
Lord, at the end of this day, may I look back knowing I gave my best and loved well.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
ABOUT THIS PRAYER:
The Church teaches that all honest work has dignity and can be offered to God as a form of prayer (Laborem Exercens, St. John Paul II, 1981). St. Joseph the Worker is celebrated on May 1st and is the patron of all who labor.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Prayer Before Work?
Pray it as you start work, perhaps in the car or at your desk.
How do I pray the Prayer Before Work?
Read it quietly, then name one task you want to do well for God.
Who is the Prayer Before Work for?
Workers of every kind, students and stay-at-home parents.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play