The Small Catechism
by Dr. Martin Luther
As the head of the family should teach them in a simple way to his household.
Prayers for Daily Use
A Morning Prayer
In the morning, when you rise you shall make the sign of the holy cross, and you shall say:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Then, kneeling or standing, you shall say the Apostles’ Creed and the Lord’s Prayer. Then you may say this prayer:
I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray You to protect me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the wicked foe may have no power over me. Amen.
And then you should go with joy to your work, singing a hymn, or the Ten Commandments or whatever your devotion may suggest.
An Evening Prayer
In the evening, when you go to bed, you shall make the sign of the holy cross, and you shall say:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Then, kneeling or standing, you shall say the Apostles’ Creed and the Lord’s Prayer. Then you may say this prayer:
I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have graciously kept me this day; and I pray You to forgive me all my sins where I have done wrong, and graciously keep me this night. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the wicked foe may have no power over me. Amen.
And then lie down in peace, and sleep.
Prayer Before Eating
The eyes of all wait upon You, O Lord, and You give them their food in due season; You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing. Lord God, heavenly Father, bless us and these Your gifts which we receive from Your bountiful goodness, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Prayer After Eating
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His mercy endures forever. We thank You, Lord God, heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, for all Your benefits, You who live and reign forever and ever. Amen.
