Prayer of St. Francis (Peace Prayer)
The Prayer of St. Francis, also known as the Peace Prayer, is a beloved prayer asking God to make us instruments of His peace. Though not actually written by St. Francis of Assisi, it beautifully captures his spirit of humility, service, and selfless love that has inspired millions worldwide.
✝Prayer Text
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.
⏰When to Pray
Pray this prayer when seeking to live out the Gospel in daily life, during times of conflict, when called to forgive, or when you need to refocus on serving others. It is popular at weddings, funerals, and peace gatherings.
📖How to Pray
Pray this prayer slowly, letting each petition challenge you personally. Where in your life is there hatred, injury, or doubt? Ask God specifically to transform those situations through you. This is a prayer of commitment—be ready to be the answer to your own prayer.
📜Related Scripture
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Galatians 5:22-23
“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.”
Romans 12:21
“Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good.”
📚History & Background
Despite its name, this prayer was not written by St. Francis of Assisi. It first appeared anonymously in a French spiritual magazine in 1912. It was printed on the back of a holy card with an image of St. Francis, which led to the attribution. It became world-famous when adopted by peace movements.
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