This short prayer, known from its Latin opening as Actiones nostras, is one of the classic collects of the Church. It asks God to inspire our actions from the start and to help them along to the finish, so that every prayer and work begins with Him and is completed through Him. It has been said for centuries at the beginning of meetings, classes, and the work of the day. Pray it as you sit down at your desk, start a shift, open your books, or begin a household task. It is a s

St. Joseph sanctified daily labor. Entrust your work to his patronage. The Prayer O glorious Saint Joseph, model of all who labor, obtain for me the grace to work conscientiously, putting devotion to duty before my own desires; to labor with thankfulness and joy, considering it an honor to use and develop by my labor the gifts I have received from God; to work with order, peace, moderation, and patience, without ever shrinking from weariness and difficulties. Amen. Traditiona

Students and workers have long asked the Holy Spirit for light before study or important labor. The Prayer Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Thy faithful and kindle in them the fire of Thy love. Send forth Thy Spirit, and they shall be created, and Thou shalt renew the face of the earth. O God, Who didst instruct the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise, and ever to rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ