Death is a universal reality, often challenging to accept. As loved ones approach this transition, we turn to prayer, seeking solace and entrusting their souls to God, the source of all life. Below is a collection of heartfelt prayers to guide and comfort during this sacred time.
Prayer of Commendation
Depart, O Christian soul, from this world in the name of God the Father, who created you;
in the name of Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, who suffered for you;
in the name of the Holy Spirit, who was poured into you.
May you find peace today and dwell with God in His holy presence,
alongside Mary, the Virgin Mother, Joseph, and all the angels and saints.
Prayer for Salvation before Passing
Lord Jesus, enter my heart. I believe in your death and resurrection, and Your eternal life in heaven.
Cleanse me of all sin, forgive my wrongs, and make my heart your home.
I accept you as my Lord and Savior, grateful for Your sacrifice and the gift of eternal life. Amen.
(Adapted from PrayWithMe.com)
Prayer for Someone Approaching Death
Heavenly Father, show mercy to your children weakened by illness and nearing death’s door.
Send Your Son to walk with them, comfort them with Your Word, and nourish them with eternal life.
Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Catholic Prayer for the Dying
I entrust you, dear brother/sister, to Almighty God, your Creator.
May you return to Him who shaped you from the earth?
May Mary, the angels, and all the saints greet you as you leave this life.
May Christ, crucified for you, grant you freedom and peace?
May He, the true Shepherd, welcome you into His paradise, forgive your sins,
and place you among His chosen ones to behold His face forever. Amen.
(Adapted from A Book of Collects in Two Parts, 1919)
Prayer for a Dying Loved One
Gracious Father, Your Word assures us that our days are in your hands.
We pray for [Name] and their family as they face the end of earthly life.
Comfort them with your promises of forgiveness, resurrection, and eternal life
through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
(Paul C. Stratman, 2018)
Comforting Prayer for the Dying
God, grant [Name] Your peace and comfort.
Let them rest in the assurance of your love and care.
Soothe their soul as they transition to eternity.
May they dwell with you forever in your presence? Amen.
Two Prayers for Those Nearing Death
- Eternal God, comfort and strengthen your servant.
Save them through Your mercy, free them from pain and distress,
and welcome them into Your kingdom through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen. - Compassionate God; hear the cries of this dying soul.
Receive them into the kingdom prepared for all believers.
Release them with grace and grant them eternal comfort
with your chosen ones through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
(Adapted from Abridged Treasury of Prayers, 1906)
Prayer for the Dying
God, we thank you for your presence. We don’t understand why illness strikes,
but we trust you walk with us. Remind [Name] of your constant love and presence.
Strengthen their family as they care for them.
We trust in your unfailing love and pray in your name. Amen.
Another Comforting Prayer for the Dying
God, fill [Name] with your peace and comfort.
Let them rest knowing you love and care for them.
Calm their spirit as they enter eternity.
May they live forever in your presence? Amen.
Prayer for the Family of the Dying
Lord, grant this family peace and comfort.
Show them your tender care and guide them through their grief.
May they find rest in your presence and hope for reunion with their loved one.
We thank you for [Name]’s life and pray they rest eternally with You. Amen.
A Prayer for the Dying
Heavenly Father, Creator of all, we come with heavy hearts as death draws near.
You know our pain through Jesus, who faced death for us.
Guide our loved one through this shadow, holding their hand.
Guard our hearts in Christ Jesus, and take what is Yours into eternity.
In Jesus, death is but a shadow, overcome by His resurrection.
We confess you as Lord, the keeper of eternal life.
As Psalm 23:4 says, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” (ESV).
Grant us your peace that surpasses understanding.
Strengthen our faith and remove our fear.
Comfort our loved one, letting them find peace in your grace and power over death.
Ease our grief with the joy of your eternal promise.
Jesus, you wept at death, and so do we, but we hold to the hope of joy beyond.
You are sovereign, and we trust your will.
Keep us aware of your guiding hand. In Jesus’ name, Amen.