Daily

Be at Peace (St. Francis de Sales)

This familiar prayer is commonly attributed to St. Francis de Sales, the Bishop of Geneva and Doctor of the Church known for teaching confidence in God’s loving providence. Its gentle counsel reflects his pastoral writings on peace of soul, patience, and trust amid uncertainty. Catholics pray it when facing changes, illness, difficult decisions, or anxiety about the future. The prayer recalls Christ’s teaching not to be anxious about tomorrow in Matthew 6:34. It also expresses the childlike abandonment to divine providence described in CCC 322. Its final petition helps the heart surrender fearful thoughts and rest quietly in the Father’s care.

Do not look forward in fear to the changes in life; rather, look to them with full hope that as they arise, God, whose very own you are, will lead you safely through all things; and when you cannot stand it, God will carry you in His arms. Do not fear what may happen tomorrow; the same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you then and every day. He will either shield you from suffering or will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imagination.

When to pray it: Pray this when facing uncertainty, major changes, suffering, or anxiety about the future.

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