A child’s prayer to his Guardian Angel

Our Lord Jesus Christ said with solemnity: «See that you despise not one of these little ones: for I say to you, that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father who is in heaven» (Mt 18:10). Through this word of the Gospel, the Tradition of the Church has always cultivated a special tenderness for the children’s devotion to the Guardian Angel. It is a Catholic custom for centuries that parents teach their little children the first prayer of the day (on awakening) and the last (before sleeping) to their own Guardian Angel, with simple words — easy for the memory of the child and open to the later growth of faith. This prayer is especially commended for parents to teach to children aged 3 to 10, or to accompany children of this age in their personal prayer.

(The child, with hands joined:)

Angel of God, my guardian dear,
to whom God’s love commits me here:
ever this day be at my side,
to light and guard, to rule and guide.
Amen.

(Or — even simpler version for very young children:)

Guardian Angel, my sweet love,
watch over me by night and day,
in the morning when I wake
and at night when I sleep.
Amen.

(Parents may add:)

Lord Jesus, look upon your little child (N.), who learns to speak with you through the hands of the little Angel you have given him/her. Grant this child the innocence that lasts until youth, the obedience that makes the home joyful, the health of body and soul, and fidelity to the Baptism received until eternal life.

Mary, Mother of Jesus and our Mother, bless this child as you blessed the Child Jesus in Nazareth.

Amen.