A Before-Bed Rosary Inspired by Episcopal Compline
I love Episcopal compline. I find it incredibly meaningful to pray before bed, especially in a group, and it brings me such comfort and joy. Recently, I found a version that is used on Episcopal prayer beads, and decided I wanted to alter it to fit the rosary. I've been trying to pray it nightly for Lent, and I swear I can feel God tuck me in when I do!
The Crucifix:
Make the sign of the cross and pray a "Glory Be", followed by this introductory prayer: Guide us in waking, O Lord, and guard us while sleeping. The Lord almighty grant us a quiet and perfect end.
The Beads Leading to the Medal:
On the next bead, pray the 'Our Father', followed by this prayer, once on each of the 'Hail Mary' Beads: "May God’s love surround us as we sleep and dream." After that, on the 'Glory Be' bead, finish with: "O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us."
The Decades:
Each decade goes as follows: The 'Our Father' is replaced with: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Loving God, I remember a time today when I could not seem to find you. Loving God, I remember a time today where you were very findable." and then finishes with an: "Our Father..." The 10 small 'Hail Mary' beads are replaced with: "Keep me as the apple of your eye,; hide me under the shadow of your wings." And finish on the 'Glory Be' bead with: "O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us."
The Closing:
On the final closing medal, we pray: "Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love's sake. Lord, you now have set your servant free to go in peace as you have promised. For these eyes of mine have seen the Savior, whom you have prepared for all the world to see: A Light to enlighten the nations, and the glory of your people Israel. Guide us waking, O Lord, and guard us sleeping; that awake we may watch with Christ, and asleep we may rest in peace"
Amen!
















