Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night,
and give your angels charge over those who sleep.
Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary,
bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted,
shield the joyous; and all for your love’s sake. Amen.

May we be aware of all who journey through these nights working, watching and weeping. For the caregivers, the doctors, the nurses and the chaplains who stand by the bed of those who are struggling to live – breath by breath. For the loved ones, the parents, the children, the neighbors and the prayerful who must stand outside the doorway – concerned and scared.

May we offer our strength and hope to these people who rise to their sentinel call as the sun sets. From the top of a lighthouse to the rail of a bridge, these are the people who focus in the dark to comfort and protect those suffering and weary.

May we pray for the arrival of relief. Relief in the form of healing, in the joy of reunions and in the return of peace and comfort around home’s hearth.  

Prayer found in Episcopal Book of Common Prayer
Photo: Wendy Claire Barrie