An Evening Visit

Be present with us, Lord, this evening. Remain here to worship and praise, to offer thanks for us whilst we rest; to bestow mercy and grace upon the earth; to strengthen the anguished souls in purgatory during their prolonged wait. Stay with us, to shield our cities filled with vice from Your displeasure, and to halt the injustices that cry out for retribution from Heaven. Remain with us, to protect the innocent, to support those who are tempted, to lift up those who have fallen, to restrain the influence of the evil one, and to avert sin. Stay with us, to console the grieving, to bless those on their deathbeds, to instill remorse in the dying, and to embrace in Your mercy the many who must stand before You for judgment this night. O Good Shepherd, remain with Your flock, safeguarding them from the dangers that threaten. Be especially near to those who suffer and are near death. Grant us a peaceful night and a suitable conclusion. Be our compassionate Shepherd until the end, that we may approach You without fear as our Judge.