Since the beginning of the Church, priests have dedicated their lives to serving others, even putting themselves in harm’s way to bring comfort, guidance, and faith to those who need it most.
You'll no doubt remember the brutal murder in 2016 of Fr. Jacques Hamel, an 85-year-old priest in France, who was slain as he celebrated Mass in his parish. His shocking death was a painful reminder that those who devote their lives to God put themselves in a vulnerable position.
And sadly, in recent years, there seems to have been a troubling rise in attacks on priests, both in their parishes and on missions abroad.
However, despite these risks, priests continue their work with courage, bringing hope and healing where it is needed most.
As a person of faith, you may not always be able to shield the clergy from harm, but you can offer them the most powerful gift: your prayers.
Therefore take a look at the biblical prayers below to uplift and protect priests in their mission:
1 A Prayer for Strength and Protection
"The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack. In green pastures he makes me lie down; to still waters he leads me; he restores my soul. He guides me along right paths for the sake of his name." — Psalm 23:1-3
Heavenly Father, We entrust our priests to Your care. Strengthen them in their mission, restore them when they grow weary, and protect them from all harm. May they walk in Your peace and be a light to those they serve. Amen.
2A Prayer for Courage in the Face of Danger
"Be strong and steadfast; have no fear or dread of them, for it is the Lord, your God, who marches with you; he will never fail you or forsake you." — Deuteronomy 31:6
Lord, Give our priests courage when they face uncertainty. Be their shield in moments of danger and their strength in moments of fear. May they always know that You walk beside them. Amen.
3A Prayer for Protection from Evil
"But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one." — 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Almighty God, We ask You to place a hedge of protection around our priests. Guard their minds, hearts, souls, and bodies from all harm. Deliver them from danger, and grant them the wisdom to lead with love and faith. Amen.
4A Prayer for Peace in Their Hearts
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid." — John 14:27
Lord Jesus, Fill the hearts of our priests with Your peace. When the world around them is troubled, may they find strength in You. Calm their worries, renew their spirits, and let them always rest in Your love. Amen.
5A Prayer for Protection on Their Journeys
"The Lord will guard your coming and going both now and forever." — Psalm 121:8
Father, Watch over the priests who travel to spread Your Word, especially those in dangerous places. Keep them safe on their journeys and bring them home to us unharmed. May they always feel Your presence guiding them. Amen.
