Paidir na Tráthnóna ~ An Evening Prayer

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Narration: Michael McGowan, Violin: Kristin McGowan

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We give thanks to You,
O Lord,
for the blessings of this day.

Forgive whatever has been done amiss.

Preserve us through the coming night.

Send Your holy angels to guard us.

Let our sleep be peaceful,
our hearts remain fixed upon You,
and our waking be to praise Your holy name.

Through Jesus Christ,
our eternal Light.

Amen ~ Áiméan

May the peace of God be with you ~ Go raibh síocháin Dé leat

 

About this Prayer

Paidir na Tráthnóna ("An Evening Prayer") comes from the Bangor Antiphonary, one of the oldest surviving books of Irish Christian worship. Compiled at Bangor Abbey in County Down during the seventh century, it preserves the prayers, hymns, and liturgy of a vibrant monastic community whose influence spread far beyond the shores of Ireland.

As daylight fades, this prayer invites us to end the day in God's presence—with gratitude for His blessings, trust in His protection through the night, and hope in His unfailing mercy. Like the monks who first prayed these words more than thirteen centuries ago, we are reminded that every day begins and ends in the light of Christ.

Whether prayed alone or with family, Paidir na Tráthnóna offers a peaceful way to entrust the cares of the day to God and to rest in His loving care.

Read more: Discover the remarkable story of the Bangor Antiphonary and the community of Bangor Abbey that preserved this beautiful tradition of prayer: Read the full article.