Week 21 of Ordinary Time

Last Light

Tuesday, August 25, 2026

Opening

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Here I am, Lord — help me to listen.

Hymn

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee; Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessed Trinity! Holy, holy, holy! though the darkness hide Thee, Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see, Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee Perfect in power, in love, and purity. — Reginald Heber (public domain)

Psalmody

Antiphon

Quiet my soul; keep watch when I cannot.

Psalm

Lift up your gates, you princes, and be lifted up, eternal gates. And the King of Glory shall enter. Who is this King of Glory? The Lord who is strong and powerful; the Lord powerful in battle. Lift up your gates, you princes, and be lifted up, eternal gates. And the King of Glory shall enter. Who is this King of Glory? The Lord of virtue. He himself is the King of Glory.

Psalm 23:7–10 · 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

Quiet my soul; keep watch when I cannot.

Reading

1 Peter 5:8–9a Be sober and vigilant. For your adversary, the devil, is like a roaring lion, traveling around and seeking those whom he might devour. Resist him by being strong in faith, being aware that the same passions afflict those who are your brothers in the world. — 1 Peter 5:8–9a · 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

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 23:7–10 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain); 1 Peter 5:8–9a · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

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