Embracing Saint Francis of Assisi's Peace Prayer
Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi
"Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy."
"O divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love."
"For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life."
Amen.
““When I first heard this prayer I was moved to tears, I was struggling in my relationship and my therapist offered this tool in session we read it together out loud. with every pause I felt my emotions lifting from me. it resonated with an inner knowing filled with peace and forgiveness.””
The History Behind Saint Francis of Assisi's Peace Prayer
The Peace Prayer of Assisi, attributed to the 12th-century Italian friar Saint Francis of Assisi, is a timeless expression of peace, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment. Though its origins remain shrouded in mystery, the prayer gained widespread attention in the early 20th century after being published in a French magazine. Its universal appeal has transcended religious boundaries, resonating with people of all faiths worldwide. Addressing fundamental human desires for love, peace, and understanding, the Peace Prayer continues to inspire and guide individuals and communities towards a more compassionate and harmonious existence.
How to Apply the Prayer
Meditate on the prayer: Do this by repeating the prayer and asking yourself what it feels like to say these words, take note of your body sensations. Do you feel at peace reciting the prayer? Is there resistance to the prayer? as you repeat this to yourself remember to breathe and allow the emotions to come to the surface and try to observe them. What are they trying to tell you?
Saint Francis of Assisi's Prayer serves as a guiding light, leading us toward a life of peace, compassion, and spiritual awakening. If you seek support in integrating these principles into your life, consider booking a session at Peace Empowered.