Week 17 of Ordinary Time

First Light

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Opening

O Lord, open my lips. And my mouth will announce your praise. — From Psalm 51

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

Holy Wisdom, teach me the fear of the Lord that is joy.

Psalm

I will extol you, Lord, for you have sustained me, and you have not allowed my enemies to delight over me. O Lord my God, I have cried out to you, and you have healed me. Lord, you led my soul away from Hell. You have saved me from those who descend into the pit. Sing a psalm to the Lord, you his saints, and confess with remembrance of his holiness.

Psalm 29:2–5 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

Antiphon

I wait for your voice more than watchmen for the dawn.

Reading

Be nothing solicitous; but in every thing, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasseth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:6–7 (Douay-Rheims, public domain)

Reflection

Stay with the Word a little longer than feels comfortable. Notice one phrase that steadies you. Carry it into the next conversation you have.

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

Holy Spirit, seal what you have begun in me. Stay with me in work and rest, in joy and trial. Amen.

Silence

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

Scripture: Psalm 29:2–5 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain); Philippians 4:6–7 (Douay-Rheims, public domain)

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