Week 20 of Ordinary Time

Morning Prayer

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Opening

O God, reach out to help me. O Lord, hasten to assist me. — From Psalm 70

Hymn

Quiet flame within the morning, Kindle what is cold in me. Teach my hurried heart to listen, Teach my eyes Your light to see. In the work that waits before me, Be my patience, be my peace. Holy Spirit, keep me present Till the day finds its release. — Original, Prayer on Fire

Psalmody

Antiphon

At daybreak, kindle hope where I am weary.

Psalm

Create a clean heart in me, O God. And renew an upright spirit within my inmost being. Do not cast me away from your face; and do not take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and confirm me with an unsurpassed spirit.

Psalm 50:12–14 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

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

At daybreak, kindle hope where I am weary.

Reading

Romans 8:18–21 For I consider that the sufferings of this time are not worthy to be compared with that future glory which shall be revealed in us. For the anticipation of the creature anticipates the revelation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to emptiness, not willingly, but for the sake of the One who made it subject, unto hope. For the creature itself shall also be delivered from the servitude of corruption, into the liberty of the glory of the sons of God. — Romans 8:18–21 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

Reflection

Before the noise multiplies, name one intention for this day. Offer your work, your waiting, and your relationships to God with a simple yes.

Intercession

For hearts that are tired, bring rest. For hearts that are restless, bring purpose. For hearts that are hard, bring compassion. For the world you love, kindle justice and peace. Lord, hear our prayer.

Closing prayer

Lord Jesus, keep this prayer alive in me through the day. Guard my steps, purify my desires, and teach me to love as you love. Amen.

Silence

If you can, rest in quiet for half a minute before you rise.

Scripture: Psalm 50:12–14 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain); Romans 8:18–21 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

An original Prayer on Fire offering for the hours of the day