Serenity Prayer

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God." — cf. John 14:1

Public Domain: The Annunciation of the Death of the Virgin, Samuel van Hoogstraten Dutch, ca. 1670, via The Met.

The Prayer

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference. Amen.

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About This Prayer

The Serenity Prayer is beloved across Christian traditions and widely used by Catholics as one of the classic prayers for peace of mind. It asks God for grace to accept what we cannot change, courage to act where we should, and wisdom to discern the difference—bringing calm to anxious hearts and clarity in daily decisions.

When To Pray

Pray the Serenity Prayer during moments of worry, decision-making, or whenever you feel overwhelmed by circumstances beyond your control. It’s especially helpful at the start or end of the day, before important conversations, or alongside an examination of conscience. Many also use it during recovery work or times of transition to anchor their thoughts in God’s will.