Watch, dear Lord
Lord, stay awake tonight with all who are awake:
those who work, those who keep watch, those who weep.
Send your angels to guard all who sleep.
Lord Christ, care for the sick and give rest to the tired.
Bless the dying, comfort those in pain,
have pity on all who suffer,
and protect those who are glad.
We ask it all for the sake of your love. Amen.
Text: our own text or translation, written for Verso.
About this prayer
Often attributed to St Augustine of Hippo, though it has not been found in his writings and its origin is uncertain. It became widely known in English through the Anglican service of Compline. It is prayed at night, holding before God everyone who is awake, working, suffering or asleep. Our English and Spanish are our own wording.