Opening
Spirit of truth, set a guard on my thoughts and a flame in my love.
Hymn
Abide with me; fast falls the eventide; The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide. When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me. I need Thy presence every passing hour. What but Thy grace can foil the tempter's power? Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me. — Henry Francis Lyte (public domain)
Psalmody
Antiphon
Give rest to the weary and hope to those who cannot sleep.
Psalm
Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has performed wonders. His right hand and his holy arm have accomplished salvation. The Lord has made known his salvation. He has revealed his justice in the sight of the nations. He has remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Psalm 97:1–3 · 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
Give rest to the weary and hope to those who cannot sleep.
Reading
1 Thessalonians 5:9–10 For God has not appointed us for wrath, but for the acquisition of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that, whether we watch, or whether we sleep, we may live in union with him. — 1 Thessalonians 5:9–10 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)
Reflection
Lay down what you cannot solve tonight. Entrust those you love to God's care. Sleep as one who is held.
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
Father, I place this hour in your hands. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Silence
If you can, rest in quiet for half a minute before you rise.