---
title: "St Francis Prayer: Meaning, History, and a Daily Practice"
description: "Explore the prayer linked to St Francis, its call to become an instrument of peace, and a practical way to live one line today."
canonical: "https://prayerguide.co.uk/guides/st-francis-prayer"
language: "en"
---

# 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.

Begin here

Choose one contrast from the prayer, such as injury and pardon. Name a real relationship, ask for help, and take one peaceful action.

[Use the short practice ↓](#practice)

## Live one line of the prayer

1.  Choose one relationship where peace is needed.
2.  Ask what listening, apology, truth, or restraint requires.
3.  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

[**Matthew 5:9**Jesus calls peacemakers blessed.](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205%3A9&version=NRSVUE)[**Romans 12:9-21**Paul gives practical instructions for sincere love and peace.](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2012%3A9-21&version=NRSVUE)

## Sources for this guide

[Franciscan Media: Origin of Saint Francis' Peace Prayer ↗](https://www.franciscanmedia.org/ask-a-franciscan/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.

On this page[Live one line of the prayer](#practice)The prayer appeared long after Francis livedPeace includes truth and justiceA prayer you can useBible passages

Next

## Keep going with prayers to use

[**Pray through the Lord's Prayer slowly**Understand the Lord's Prayer one line at a time, compare common wording, and use its structure for your own prayer today.](https://prayerguide.co.uk/guides/lords-prayer)

[**Simple prayers before a meal**Choose a short mealtime prayer for everyday food, children, guests, celebrations, and times when the table feels strained.](https://prayerguide.co.uk/guides/mealtime-prayers)

[**Use the Serenity Prayer in a difficult situation**Understand the Serenity Prayer and use its three movements to sort what you must accept, change, or discuss with someone wise.](https://prayerguide.co.uk/guides/serenity-prayer)