Police have a traditional patron in St Michael the Archangel, the leader of heaven’s armies against evil. Many officers carry his medal. Every May, during National Police Week, officers and families gather in Washington and in towns across the country to remember those who died in the line of duty.
Historical Context
A Police Officer’s Prayer
Lord, as I put on this uniform, I ask for your protection.
Keep me alert and keep me safe.
Give me courage when there’s danger,
calm when there’s chaos,
and wisdom to know when to act and when to wait.
Help me treat every person with fairness and dignity,
including the ones who make it hard.
Bring me home to my family tonight.
St Michael, defend me.
Amen.
A Prayer for Wisdom and Justice
Father, the power I carry is serious.
Let me never abuse it.
Keep my judgment clear, my temper controlled and my heart just.
Amen.
For Officers’ Families
Lord, bless the spouses and children who wait at home,
who hear sirens and wonder.
Give them peace, and bring their officer home.
Amen.
For Fallen Officers
Lord, receive the officers who gave their lives protecting others.
Give them eternal rest, and comfort the families and departments who mourn them.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- At roll call or before a shift.
- During National Police Week in May.
- On 29 September, the feast of St Michael.
- At a police academy graduation.
Scripture Connection
“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” — Matthew 5:9
Officers are called to keep the peace, and at their best, to make it. Jesus calls that work holy.
Related prayers
For other first responders, see the Fire Force Prayer, Paramedics Prayer, Dispatcher Prayer and Correctional Officer Prayer.