Breathe in me, Holy Spirit
Breathe in me, Holy Spirit, that I may think what is holy.
Work in me, Holy Spirit, that I may do what is holy.
Draw my heart, Holy Spirit, that I may love what is holy.
Strengthen me, Holy Spirit, that I may defend what is holy.
Guard me, Holy Spirit, that I may always be holy. Amen.
Text: our own text or translation, written for Verso.
About this prayer
Widely attributed to St Augustine of Hippo (354–430), though it is not found in his known writings and its origin is uncertain. Its five short petitions ask the Spirit to make our thoughts, work, love and whole life holy. It is a good prayer to begin the day or to calm the mind before prayer. The wording here is ours.