Catholic Prayer for Night

“Acquire the habit of speaking to God as if you were alone with Him, familiarly and with confidence and love, as to the dearest friend you have.” — St. Alphonsus Maria de Liguori

Public Domain: Lot and two angels via Webumenia.

The Prayer

Jesus Christ, my God, I adore You and thank You for all the graces You have given me this day. I offer You my sleep and all the moments of this night, and I ask you to keep me from sin. I put myself within Your sacred side and under the mantle of Our Lady. Let Your holy angels stand about me and keep me in peace. And let your blessings be upon me. Amen.

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About This Prayer

This Prayer Before Sleep was composed by Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori (1696–1787), a Doctor of the Church and founder of the Redemptorists. Known for his deep devotion to Christ and Mary, St. Alphonsus left the Church many prayers to guide souls in daily holiness. This prayer reflects his spirituality of gratitude, trust, and reliance on God’s mercy at the close of day. It acknowledges Christ’s protection, entrusts the night to Him, and invokes Mary and the angels for guidance and peace. For Catholics, praying before sleep is a way to remain united to God even in rest.

When To Pray

This Catholic prayer for night is traditionally prayed before going to sleep. It is especially fitting after a day of work or study, as a way to entrust oneself to God’s mercy and protection. Catholics may use it as part of their nightly routine, together with an examination of conscience, night prayers from the Liturgy of the Hours, or family prayer. It is also suitable for seasons of spiritual renewal, such as Lent and Advent, when a focus on daily holiness is emphasized.