Opening
God, come to my assistance. Lord, make haste to help me.
Hymn
Over this household, spread your wings. Over the ones I love, and those I fail. Lord of the night watches, be our light Until the morning veil. Give rest to the weary. Give hope to those who cannot sleep. And if I wake, let me find you first — Quiet, near, and deep.
Original – Prayer on Fire
Psalmody
Antiphon
Protect us from the terrors of the night and the wounds of the day.
Psalm 91 (90):1–2, 5–6
Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)
Psalm
He who dwells in the assistance of the Most High will abide in the protection of the God of heaven. He will say to the Lord, “You are my supporter and my refuge.” My God, I will hope in him. His truth will surround you with a shield. You will not be afraid: before the terror of the night, before the arrow flying in the day, before the business walking in darkness, nor of the invasion and the midday demon.
Glory Be
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Antiphon
Protect us from the terrors of the night and the wounds of the day.
Silence
A moment of silence
Reading
Jeremiah 14:9b
Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)
Why would you be like a wandering man, like a strong man who is unable to save? But you, O Lord, are with us, and your name is invoked over us, so do not abandon us!”
Responsory
You are my shelter and my shield. I hope in your word. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Nunc Dimittis
Antiphon
Salvation prepared for all peoples — hide us in it overnight.
Luke 2:29–32
Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)
Canticle
“Now you may dismiss your servant in peace, O Lord, according to your word. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared before the face of all peoples: the light of revelation to the nations and the glory of your people Israel.”
Glory Be
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Antiphon
Salvation prepared for all peoples — hide us in it overnight.
Intercessions
Grant us rest that heals the spirit, and a heart free of bitterness as we lie down.
R. Speak, Lord, we are listening.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Closing prayer
Wash the day from our hearts. Do not let bitterness keep the last watch. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.