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Japanese A closing prayer for a meeting can be three sentences long: “Lord, thank you for our time together and for what we decided today. Go with us as we carry it out, and keep us safe until we meet again. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” The Grace from 2 Corinthians 13:14, said together, is a traditional ending.
Short closing prayers to read aloud
Each prayer takes under a minute. Choose the one that fits what the meeting was about, or join two.
A prayer of thanks for our time together
Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing us together today, for every idea that was shared and for the patience we showed each other. Thank you for being with us, as you promised, where two or three are gathered in your name. Send us home grateful. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
For guidance in what comes next
Lord God, we have talked and planned, and now we need your direction. Show each of us the next step, and give us the courage to take it. “Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established” (Proverbs 16:3). We commit this work to you. Amen.
To carry out what was decided
Lord, help us remember what we agreed and do it. Give each person the time, energy and diligence for the tasks they have taken on, and let nothing we discussed today be wasted. Amen.
For unity after a hard discussion
God of peace, some things said today were hard to hear, and not everyone got their way. Keep us united anyway, “endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). Guard us from gossip in the parking lot and bitterness at home. Amen.
For wisdom in future decisions
Father, more decisions are waiting for us. Give us clear minds to weigh them, honesty with one another, and the humility to change course when we are wrong. Keep us from choosing out of fear or pride. Amen.
For blessing on the work
Almighty God, bless the work that will come out of this meeting. “Establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it” (Psalm 90:17). Let what we do help the people it is meant for and bring honor to your name. Amen.
For strength to keep going
Lord, the work ahead is long, and some of us are already tired. Renew our strength, and do not let us give up halfway. Your word says, “let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9). Amen.
For a spirit of service
Lord Jesus, you came “not to be ministered unto, but to minister” (Mark 10:45). Make us servants in this work, quick to help, slow to claim credit, and mindful of the people we serve. Amen.
For peace and encouragement
Prince of Peace, some of us leave this meeting worried about what lies ahead. Quiet those worries, lift our spirits, and remind us that we do not carry this work alone. Let your peace go with each of us. Amen.
For safe travel home
Protector God, watch over each person as they leave, on the road, on the train or as they log off and return to the rest of their day. “The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore” (Psalm 121:8). Bring us safely home. Amen.
For an online meeting
Lord, we have met from many homes and offices, and now we go back to them. Thank you for the means to meet at a distance. Bless each household we have seen on screen today, and keep us close in purpose until we meet again. Amen.
Blessings from Scripture and the prayer book
Churches have ended their services with short prayers and blessings for centuries, and any of these can close a meeting. Several are addressed to the whole group, so they suit a leader speaking over the people.
The Grace
Paul’s last words to the church at Corinth have closed Christian gatherings for centuries. The Book of Common Prayer ends Morning and Evening Prayer with them, turned into a prayer for “us”:
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Ghost, be with us all evermore. Amen.
The Book of Common Prayer (1928), Evening Prayer, 2 Cor. xiii. 14, p. 34
The Prayer of Saint Chrysostom
This prayer suits the end of a prayer meeting, because it asks God to answer the prayers the group has just made together.
Almighty God, who hast given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplications unto thee; and dost promise that when two or three are gathered together in thy Name thou wilt grant their requests; Fulfil now, O Lord, the desires and petitions of thy servants, as may be most expedient for them; granting us in this world knowledge of thy truth, and in the world to come life everlasting. Amen.
The Book of Common Prayer (1928), Morning Prayer, A Prayer of St. Chrysostom, p. 20
“Direct us, O Lord”
For a business meeting, a church council or a planning session, this collect asks God to guide work that is “begun, continued, and ended” in him.
Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings, with thy most gracious favour, and further us with thy continual help; that in all our works begun, continued, and ended in thee, we may glorify thy holy Name, and finally, by thy mercy, obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Book of Common Prayer (1928), Prayers, Collects, p. 49
The blessing of Aaron
God gave this blessing to Aaron and his sons to speak over Israel.
The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Numbers 6:24–26
The blessing from Hebrews
This blessing asks God to equip the group “in every good work,” which suits a meeting that has handed out tasks.
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Hebrews 13:20–21
A doxology
The shortest close of all is the Gloria Patri, which a group can say together after any prayer.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
The Book of Common Prayer (1928), Morning Prayer, p. 8
Jude’s letter ends with another doxology that works as a closing: “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen” (Jude 24–25).
Closing prayers for different kinds of meetings
Church meeting or council. A council that has voted on money, staff or buildings can close with “Direct us, O Lord” or with the prayer for unity above, especially if the vote was divided.
Prayer meeting. The Prayer of Saint Chrysostom fits this moment: the group has made its requests, and the prayer hands them back to God.
Bible study. A short prayer that the group will live by what it has read fits well: “Lord, thank you for your word tonight. Help us do what we have heard, not only remember it. Amen.” Other ideas are in these closing prayers for Bible study.
Business meeting at work. In a workplace where not everyone shares the faith, a leader can invite those who wish to pray to stay a minute after the meeting, rather than making prayer part of the agenda. A short prayer of thanks and blessing on the work fits better there than a long one.
Seminar, conference or training day. After a long day, people want to leave. A prayer of thanks for the speakers and the organizers, followed by the Grace, closes it without keeping anyone.
How to lead a closing prayer
The person chairing the meeting can pray, or can ask someone beforehand so that no one is put on the spot. Tell the group what is coming (“Let’s close in prayer”), keep the prayer to a minute or two, and name the real business of the meeting rather than praying in general terms. If people shared personal needs during the meeting, pray for them by name only if they are comfortable with it. A spoken “Amen” from everyone, or the Grace said together, marks the end.
Prayer for Thankfulness
This prayer is about expressing gratitude to God for the time spent together in the meeting, for any insights gained, and for His presence. It’s a way to acknowledge His goodness before everyone departs.
Heavenly Father,
We come before You at the close of this meeting with hearts full of thankfulness. Thank You for bringing us together today, for the opportunity to discuss and share. We are grateful for the ideas that were exchanged and for the fellowship we experienced.
Thank You for Your guidance during our discussions and for any clarity that was achieved. We appreciate every contribution made and the willingness of each person to participate. We thank You for the technology that allowed us to connect and for the safety You provided for us during this time.
Lord, we are truly grateful for Your many blessings, seen and unseen. May we leave this meeting with a renewed sense of appreciation for Your work in our lives and in our endeavors.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Ending a meeting with a prayer of thankfulness helps to solidify a sense of accomplishment and divine blessing on the time spent. It reminds everyone of God’s provision. As Colossians 3:17 says, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Prayer for Guidance Moving Forward
This prayer is focused on asking God to lead and direct everyone as they leave the meeting and begin to act on what was discussed. It’s a request for His wisdom to guide future steps and decisions.
Lord God,
As we conclude this meeting, we ask for Your divine guidance in the days and weeks ahead. We have discussed many things, and now we seek Your wisdom to move forward in a way that honors You. Show us the next steps to take, both individually and as a group.
Illuminate our paths and make Your will clear to us. Help us to discern Your direction and give us the courage to follow where You lead, even if it requires stepping out in faith. May we not rely on our own understanding, but trust in Your unfailing guidance.
Give us clarity as we seek to apply what we have learned and decided here. May Your Spirit continue to work in us and through us, leading us in the way of productivity and purpose.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Seeking God’s guidance after a meeting is crucial for ensuring that plans and discussions translate into purposeful action aligned with His will. Proverbs 3:5-6 is a powerful reminder: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Prayer for Unity and Continued Fellowship
This prayer asks God to strengthen the unity among those present and to foster continued positive relationships beyond the meeting. It’s a desire for the fellowship experienced to continue and grow.
Gracious Father,
As this meeting draws to a close, we pray for a continued spirit of unity and fellowship among us. Thank You for the opportunity to connect and collaborate. We ask that You would bind us together in love and mutual respect.
Help us to support and encourage one another in the tasks ahead. May the sense of teamwork and shared purpose we felt today continue to strengthen our relationships. Guard us from any division or misunderstanding, and help us to always seek harmony.
May we leave here not just as colleagues or group members, but as brothers and sisters in purpose, committed to lifting each other up. Let Your love be the foundation of all our interactions.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Praying for unity and continued fellowship is vital for the health and effectiveness of any group. It emphasizes the importance of relationships in achieving common goals. As Philippians 2:2 says, “then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.”
Prayer for Application of What Was Discussed
This prayer focuses on asking God to help everyone take what was discussed in the meeting and apply it effectively in their work and responsibilities. It’s a prayer for fruitful outcomes from the meeting’s deliberations.
Lord, our Helper,
We thank You for the discussions we have had in this meeting. Now, as we prepare to leave, we ask for Your help in applying what has been shared and decided. Grant us the wisdom and diligence to put these plans and ideas into action.
Help us to remember the key insights and to integrate them into our work. Give us the strength and perseverance to follow through on our commitments. May the time spent here not be in vain, but lead to tangible, positive results.
Remove any obstacles that would prevent us from implementing these things effectively. May our efforts be blessed by You and contribute to our shared goals and Your greater purpose.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
A prayer for application helps bridge the gap between discussion and tangible results, asking for God’s enabling power to make the meeting fruitful. James 1:22 reminds us, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
Prayer for Safe Travels
This prayer is specifically for God’s protection and care as attendees travel from the meeting place to their next destinations, whether that’s home, work, or elsewhere.
Protector God,
As we depart from this place (or conclude this online gathering), we ask for Your hand of protection upon each person. Grant safe travels to everyone as they journey to their next destination.
Watch over them on the roads, in the air, or by whatever means they are traveling. Keep them alert and free from any harm or accident. May Your angels guard them and bring them safely to their homes and loved ones.
For those who will continue their work from different locations, we pray for Your continued presence and safety with them there. Thank You for Your constant watchfulness over us.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Praying for safe travels is a caring way to conclude a meeting, showing concern for the practical well-being of each participant. Psalm 121:8 offers comfort: “The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”
Prayer for Blessing on Our Efforts
This prayer asks for God’s blessing on the work and efforts that will follow the meeting, trusting that His favor will lead to success and positive impact.
Almighty God,
We have met, discussed, and planned. Now, as we go forth, we humbly ask for Your blessing upon our efforts. May Your favor rest upon the work of our hands and the intentions of our hearts that are aligned with Your will.
Prosper the tasks we undertake as a result of this meeting. Give us creativity, skill, and perseverance. May our endeavors be fruitful and bring about good outcomes that honor You and benefit others.
Help us to work diligently and with integrity, always seeking to do our best. We commit our plans and our actions into Your hands, trusting that You will guide them and bring them to a successful conclusion according to Your good purpose.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Asking for God’s blessing on efforts is an act of humility and dependence, recognizing that true success comes from Him. Psalm 90:17 is a fitting verse: “May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.”
Prayer for Wisdom in Future Decisions
This prayer seeks God’s wisdom for everyone as they face future decisions related to the matters discussed or other responsibilities they hold. It’s about asking for ongoing clarity and sound judgment.
God of all Wisdom,
As we conclude our time together, we recognize that many more decisions lie ahead. We pray that You would grant each of us Your divine wisdom as we navigate future choices and challenges.
Fill us with understanding and discernment. Help us to see situations clearly, to weigh options carefully, and to make decisions that are just, fair, and in accordance with Your will. Protect us from making choices based on fear or selfishness.
May Your Spirit guide our thoughts and give us insight beyond our own abilities. We desire to walk wisely in all our ways, so that our actions may bring You honor and lead to positive outcomes.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
A prayer for wisdom in future decisions acknowledges our human limitations and our need for God’s guidance in all that we do. James 1:5 encourages this: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Prayer for Peace and Encouragement
This prayer asks for God to fill everyone with His peace and to encourage their hearts as they leave the meeting, especially if the topics were challenging or the tasks ahead are daunting.
Prince of Peace, Comforter,
As we bring this meeting to an end, we ask You to fill each heart here with Your profound peace. Quiet any anxieties or concerns that may linger. Replace any feelings of stress or being overwhelmed with Your calm assurance.
We also pray for Your encouragement to settle upon us. Lift our spirits and renew our hope. Remind us that we are not alone in our endeavors, but that You are with us, strengthening and upholding us.
May we leave this meeting feeling refreshed in spirit, encouraged for the path ahead, and peaceful in the knowledge of Your loving care. Let Your peace guard our hearts and minds.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Concluding with a prayer for peace and encouragement can be very uplifting, helping people to leave with a lighter heart and a renewed spirit. John 14:27 offers Jesus’ words: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Prayer for God’s Continued Presence
This prayer is a request for the conscious awareness of God’s presence to remain with each person as they depart and go about their various ways.
Immanuel, God with us,
We thank You for Your presence with us during this meeting. As we now prepare to go our separate ways, we pray that we would continue to be aware of Your nearness. Go with us, Lord, into every task and every conversation.
Help us to walk in the light of Your presence throughout the rest of this day and in the days to come. Remind us that You are always with us, guiding, protecting, and sustaining us. May this knowledge give us confidence and joy.
Let us not feel that we are leaving Your presence behind as we leave this meeting, but rather that we carry Your Spirit with us into the world, to be Your hands and feet.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Praying for an awareness of God’s continued presence is a comforting reminder that we are never alone in our endeavors. Hebrews 13:5b assures us, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
Prayer for Strength to Act
This prayer asks God to give everyone the necessary strength—physical, mental, and spiritual—to carry out the actions and responsibilities discussed or assigned during the meeting.
Lord, our Strength,
We have discussed plans and made commitments during this meeting. Now, we ask You to grant us the strength to act upon them. We know that on our own, our energy can fail, and our resolve can weaken.
Please empower us with Your might. Give us physical stamina for the work, mental clarity for the challenges, and spiritual fortitude to persevere when things get difficult. Renew our strength when we feel weary.
Help us to be strong and courageous, not relying on our own abilities but trusting in Your power working through us. May we accomplish what You have set before us with the strength that You provide.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
A prayer for strength to act is an admission of our need for God’s enabling power to fulfill our responsibilities effectively. Philippians 4:13 is a powerful declaration: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Prayer for Impact and Fruitfulness
This prayer is about asking God that the efforts and decisions stemming from the meeting will have a meaningful, positive impact and bear good fruit for His glory and the benefit of others.
God of the Harvest,
As we conclude this time together, we look ahead and pray for the impact and fruitfulness of our work. May the discussions held and the decisions made here lead to tangible, positive outcomes that make a real difference.
Bless our endeavors, Lord, so that they may bear much fruit for Your Kingdom. Help us to sow seeds of kindness, wisdom, and progress. May our collective efforts contribute to growth, healing, or whatever good purpose You intend.
Let us not grow weary in doing good, but trust that in due season we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. May all that we do ultimately bring glory to Your name and extend Your love in the world.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Praying for impact and fruitfulness directs the group’s focus towards the ultimate purpose of their work, asking God to multiply their efforts. John 15:5 says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
Prayer for a Spirit of Service
This prayer asks God to cultivate a spirit of service in the hearts of all attendees, so that the work they do is motivated by a desire to help and uplift others.
Servant King,
As we close this meeting, we pray that You would instill in each of us a deeper spirit of service. Help us to look beyond our own interests and to consider how our work and actions can benefit others and contribute to the common good.
Remind us of Your example, Lord Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve. May we approach our tasks with humility, seeking to support, encourage, and uplift those around us and those we are called to serve through our work.
Help us to use our gifts and talents not for self-promotion, but for the building up of Your kingdom and the betterment of the world. May a servant’s heart guide all that we do after we leave this place.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
A prayer for a spirit of service sets a humble and outward-looking tone as a meeting concludes, encouraging participants to approach their tasks with a Christ-like attitude. Mark 10:45 states, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Your turn to pray
Asked to pray out loud? Choose the occasion and how much time you have, then read one of these three.
Prefer to use your own words? Lesson 1 of Praying Out Loud shows how, free.
Father, we have talked, voted and made plans tonight. Where we decided well, give us the energy to carry it through. Where we decided badly, show us before it does harm. Help each person remember the task they took on, and let everything we do “be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Lord Jesus, we did not all agree tonight, and some of us are leaving frustrated. Keep us from carrying this into the parking lot and the phone calls afterward. Where one of us spoke sharply, soften it; where someone felt unheard, let us listen better next time. Make us “likeminded one toward another,” so that “with one mind and one mouth” we may glorify God (Romans 15:5–6). Amen.
Lord, you have given us the care of this church and its people. Thank you for trusting us with it. Show us who is sick, who is struggling and who has drifted away, and send us to them this week. Keep us honest in the church’s money, humble in our authority and faithful in prayer for one another. Amen.
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Prefer to use your own words? Lesson 1 of Praying Out Loud shows how, free.
Keep this for next time. Your turn to pray has a page of its own, with our prayers for each occasion.
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