The Where of Prayer: In the Bedroom

As mentioned last week, one of the first places we learn to pray is beside, or in, our beds just before we fall asleep. We start praying at bedtime when we are children. Over the years, we probably do not pray as often before going to sleep, but sometimes we do.

The form of prayer just before bedtime in the Liturgy of the Hours, the Daily Office, is called Compline. It is a short series of prayers, usually prayed from memory, incorporating a confession, a psalm (from four options), the Lord's Prayer, and a short concluding prayer.

Today's Prayer Prompt: Try a Compline prayer tonight before bed.

• "The Lord Almighty grant us a peaceful night and a perfect end. Amen."
• Prayer of Confession
• Read Psalm 91 aloud
• The Lord's Prayer
• Prayer for God's protection through the night