Prayer for the Dying
For those in their final hours — commending a departing soul into the hands of God.
The Prayer for the Dying commends a departing soul into God's hands in the final hours. It uses the Church's traditional words of farewell, such as Go forth, Christian soul, and asks for angels to receive the soul. It can be said by family at the bedside or by a priest. It gives words to a moment when words are hard to find. Even if the person cannot respond, they may still hear, so speak words of love and gratitude. Call a priest as early as possible for the sacraments, and stay near. Afterward, pray for the deceased and for the family, and arrange a Mass.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayPrayer for the Dying
Go forth, Christian soul, from this world,
in the name of God the almighty Father, who created you;
in the name of Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, who suffered for you;
in the name of the Holy Spirit, who was poured out upon you.
Go forth, faithful Christian!
May you live in peace this day, may your home be with God in Zion,
with Mary, the virgin Mother of God,
with Joseph, and all the angels and saints.
Lord Jesus, receive this soul who has been signed with Your cross and sealed with Your Spirit. Receive them as You received the good thief — today, in paradise.
For those who are afraid: let Your perfect love cast out fear. Remind them of every sin confessed, every absolution spoken, every Eucharist received. The cross has already done its work.
For those who are in pain: be near. Let the final passage through pain be the last participation in Your suffering before the resurrection.
For the family and friends keeping vigil: sustain them. Give them the grace to say: "Goodbye for now." Give them faith that this is not the end.
Mary, be present at this deathbed as you stood at the foot of the cross. Mother of the dying, pray for us at the hour of our death.
Amen.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Prayer for the Dying?
Pray it at the bedside when death is near, and again after the death.
How do I pray the Prayer for the Dying?
Speak quietly, hold their hand and repeat the name of Jesus.
Who is the Prayer for the Dying for?
Families, caregivers, nurses and chaplains.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play