The fireflies start coming out around seven o’clock, and the sun sets noticeably earlier than it did in June. In my back yard, I can hear bats and owls, foxes, and an occasional coyote. Every so often, a Fisher Cat’s cry pierces the night, eerie in its humanity. Stars shine, the moon glows, and the world lives in shadow. It’s time to release the day, giving all that was back to God as I prepare to close my eyes….
A Prayer for Children
Lord Jesus Christ, you received the children who came to you, receive also from the lips of your child this evening prayer. Shelter me under the protection of your wings that I may lie down in peace and sleep. Awaken me in due time that I may glorify you, for you alone are good and love all people.
A Prayer for Adults
Lord our God, whatever sins I have committed this day, in word, deed or thought, forgive me, for you are good and love all people. Grant me a peaceful and undisturbed sleep. Protect me from every abuse and plot of the evil one. Raise me up in due time that I may glorify you, for you are blessed, together with your only begotten Son, and your all holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.
when ready for sleep, say:
Under the protection of your wings I shall be covered and fall asleep, for in you only, Lord, does my hope lie.
All Prayers are from Daily Prayers for Orthodox Christians (N. Michael Vaporis, ed.; Hellenic College/Holy Cross Greek School of Theology, trans; Brookline, Massachusetts: Holy Cross Orthodox Press, 1986, 2010 reprint), pp. 19, 23