Three Evening Prayers for Children
By Esaias Heidenreich
Evening Prayers for Children
The First Prayer
Almighty, eternal God, we poor children praise You, O true and glorious Light, who has given us to complete this day. By Your grace, forgive us our sins, whereby we have ever provoked You to anger. Watch over our body, soul, parents, and the whole nation this night; bless us with Your grace, and grant us, on the last day, a joyful resurrection with all Your saints, in Jesus Christ, Your Son. Amen.
The Second Prayer
O Jesus Christ, Lamb of God, who bears the sin of the whole world, protect us this night from all harm to the body and soul; comfort our dear father and mother, and preserve them in Your grace, that in the midst of all the cares, suffering, and grief which they bear, they may always perceive Your help and support, through the power of Your bitter suffering and shedding of blood. Amen.
The Third Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, even we little children feel the burdensome and tumultuous time in which we, together with our parents and all of Christendom, set our refuge and salvation upon You alone. Be gracious to us, and do not give us over to the wicked will of the Turk and other enemies of Your name. Grant us henceforth to await Your blessed return; let our souls, which You have redeemed, be commended to Your grievous wounds, and help us, with all believers, to possess Your eternal life with joy. Amen.
Esaias Heidenreich, Kirchen und Hausgebetlein (1582)
Unknown, Family in Evening Prayer (19th century)