Have you ever needed to talk to God but been caught at a loss for words? Have you ever needed Him the most, but you don’t know how to call out to Him?

When grieving, you are faced with a series of emotions, and the silence can feel deafening. So, whether you are grieving a loss or facing a challenging time and prayer feels out of reach, you are not alone. This blog offers a handful of prayers you can lean on when you need the hand of God, and you don’t know how to reach out for His guidance.

Healing

If you have had a recent loss in your life, it takes time to heal and grieve. This prayer offers you a way to sit with God and ask for help to carry you forward.

God, do not let my feelings overwhelm me. During moments of anguish, touch my heart with courage, my soul with your compassion and with your love to comfort me. Despite my pain, let me know healing is occurring. Let me hear often that you are always with me.  God, today is different; I am faced with my many challenges. Help me know I am not powerless and that I am surviving. Give me hope for tomorrow. Let me believe in myself and allow others to comfort me. Amen

Strength

A common feeling experienced while grieving is a sense of being lost. When you don’t know how to get through this tough time, turn to God for strength.

O Lord, we call upon You in our time of sorrow, that You give us the strength and will to bear our heavy burdens, until we can again feel the warmth and love of Your divine compassion. Be mindful of us and have mercy on us while we struggle to comprehend life’s hardships.

Keep us ever in Your watch, till we can walk again with light hearts and renewed spirits. Amen.

Comfort

Grief can often bring feelings of uncertainty, but prayer can offer reassurance. This prayer can provide comfort by reminding you that God, in His mercy, is lovingly caring for the one you’ve lost.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Remembrance

Holding on to memories of loved ones is a great way to keep them close to our hearts. Prayers of remembrance can help us honor lost loved ones while entrusting them with God’s care.

Heavenly Father, we remember those who have gone before us, marked with the sign of faith. May they find light, happiness, and peace in Your presence. May we who remain be comforted by Your promise of eternal life and strengthened by our faith until we are united again. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hope

All hope can feel lost when grieving, but this prayer can help to remind you that there is hope in the midst of a storm.

God, even though I don’t understand everything happening in my life, the one thing I know confidently is Your love for me. Look upon me, Your humble servant, in my moment of need. Help me feel the peace that only You provide. Help me remember that there is light at the end of the tunnel–Your warm light that will brighten even my darkest day. Amen

Prayer is a powerful tool in times of sorrow, and no matter the situation, God is always there to help us every step of the way.

Written By: Jennifer Kapcio | Marketing Intern | Catholic Cemeteries Association