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Guardian Angel Prayer: Angel of God, My Guardian Dear
Pray the traditional Catholic Guardian Angel prayer in English and Latin. Learn when to pray it, what Catholic teaching says about guardian angels, and how to share it with children.
Part of the Daily prayers prayer collection.
In brief
The traditional Catholic Guardian Angel prayer is commonly known as "Angel of God." It asks the guardian angel to remain close, guide the person, and help them choose what is good. Pray it in the morning, before sleep, while travelling, or whenever you need to pause and ask for guidance.
Angel of God: Guardian Angel Prayer
Angel of God, my guardian dear,
to whom God's love commits me here,
ever this day be at my side,
to light and guard, to rule and guide.
Amen.
Source and tradition: traditional Catholic devotional prayer. English wording may vary slightly between prayer books, especially in the line about God's love committing a person to the angel's care.
When to pray this prayer
- In the morning: begin the day by asking for light and wise direction.
- At night: include it in Bedtime Prayers as an act of trust.
- Before travel: pray for prudence, patience, and care for everyone on the journey.
- During fear or uncertainty: slow down, pray, and then take the responsible next step.
- With children: teach the words gradually and explain that the prayer points to God's love and care.
Latin: Angele Dei
Angele Dei, qui custos es mei,
me, tibi commissum pietate superna,
illumina, custodi, rege et guberna.
Amen.
The Latin form is often called Angele Dei. Pray it in Latin if that is meaningful to you, or use English so the prayer remains understood and attentive.
What does the Catholic Church teach?
The Catechism teaches that human life is surrounded by the watchful care and intercession of angels. Catholic devotion to a guardian angel is therefore a way of recognizing God's providence, not a belief that an angel replaces God or grants wishes independently.
The prayer asks for light, guidance, and care. It should be prayed alongside ordinary responsibility: look both ways before crossing, seek qualified help for serious problems, and make prudent decisions. Prayer is not a magical technique and does not guarantee that no accident, illness, or hardship will occur.
A short version for children
Dear guardian angel, thank you for God's care. Stay near me, help me choose what is good, and guide me today. Amen.
This is an original child-friendly adaptation, not the traditional text. A parent can invite a child to add the names of people who need help or to say one responsible action they will take that day.
Sources & Tradition
Frequently asked questions
Does every Catholic have a guardian angel?
Catholic teaching speaks of angelic care for human life, not only for children. The Catechism's language supports devotion to a guardian angel while leaving the details of each person's spiritual life in God's providence.
Is the Guardian Angel prayer only for children?
No. Children often learn it early, but adults may pray it at any stage of life, including in the morning, at night, before travel, or during a difficult decision.
Does a guardian angel replace God?
No. Catholic prayer to a guardian angel is directed within faith in God. The angel is a created servant of God's care, not a divine power or an alternative to God.
Does this prayer guarantee protection?
No. It is a traditional prayer of trust and a request for guidance. It does not promise freedom from accidents, illness, temptation, or suffering. Continue to use prudence and seek appropriate help.
Can I pray this prayer for my child?
Yes. You can pray the traditional text for a child, teach the child to pray it, or use the short adaptation above. Keep the language reassuring and avoid frightening a child with claims that an angel is watching to punish them.