Daily
Prayer for Generosity
This prayer is widely attributed to Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, although its precise authorship is uncertain. Its spirit closely reflects Ignatian generosity, disciplined service, and readiness to seek God’s will without attachment to comfort or recognition. Catholics often pray it before work, apostolic service, acts of charity, or any duty that calls for perseverance and self-gift. The prayer asks for freedom from self-interest so that service may be offered for God’s glory alone. It also echoes Christ’s call to take up the cross and follow him in faithful love.
Lord, teach me to be generous.
Teach me to serve you as you deserve;
to give and not to count the cost;
to fight and not to heed the wounds;
to toil and not to seek for rest;
to labor and not to ask for reward,
save that of knowing that I do your will.
Amen.
When to pray it: Pray this before work, service, sacrifice, or any task that requires generosity and perseverance.
Want to understand this prayer line by line, or its history? Ask AskCatholicAI