Pray with the words linked to St Francis
The prayer linked to St Francis asks God to make the speaker an instrument of peace. It turns prayer towards action in places marked by hatred, injury, doubt, and despair.
Live one line of the prayer
- Choose one relationship where peace is needed.
- Ask what listening, apology, truth, or restraint requires.
- Take one small action without demanding a response.
The prayer appeared long after Francis lived
The text was first published in France in 1912. Franciscan historians say that Francis of Assisi did not write it.
Its themes still fit the Franciscan concern for peace, humility, and service.
Peace includes truth and justice
Making peace does not mean hiding abuse or asking harmed people to stay silent. Honest peace faces what happened and protects people from further harm.
Begin with the part you can offer, then seek skilled help when the conflict is serious.
A prayer you can use
Lord, make me useful in the work of peace.
Where I have caused harm, lead me towards truth and repair.
Where conflict surrounds me, give me courage, restraint, and care for every person.
Amen.
Bible passages to sit with
Sources for this guide
Franciscan Media: Origin of Saint Francis' Peace Prayer ↗Questions people ask
Did St Francis write this prayer?
No. Its oldest known copy dates to 1912 in France, centuries after his death.
Can I use the prayer outside a Catholic setting?
Yes. Christians from many traditions use it as a prayer for peace and service.
What is the Prayer of Saint Francis?
It is the prayer that begins, 'Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.' It asks for a life that answers hatred, injury, doubt, and despair with Christian love.
Did Saint Francis write this prayer?
There is no evidence that Francis of Assisi wrote it. The prayer appeared in French in the early twentieth century and was linked to him later.
When can I use the Prayer of Saint Francis?
Use it when you face conflict, want to serve another person, or need to examine how your actions can make peace.
What does 'an instrument of peace' mean?
It means becoming a person through whom peace is made. The prayer turns that aim into actions such as forgiving, listening, comforting, and telling the truth with love.