An accident happens in a few seconds, but the fear of it can stay with us for years. A prayer for accidents can be said in two ways: beforehand, as a request for protection for yourself and your loved ones, and afterwards, when someone has been injured or when you yourself are trying to get over the shock. In this article you will find short prayers for both situations, the saints Christians traditionally pray to for protection, and a few steps that help you regain your peace.
First: safety and medical help
If an accident has just happened, call 112 (or your local emergency number) immediately and follow the instructions of the emergency crews. Prayer accompanies medical help; it does not replace it. You can say a short prayer in your mind – “Lord, help!” – while you do what needs to be done.
Prayer for protection from accidents
A prayer in your own words (suggested by us, not a liturgical text):
Lord Jesus Christ, I entrust to You my journey today and everyone I will meet. Guard me from dangers, from haste and from carelessness. Give me a clear mind, attentive eyes and patience. Protect my loved ones too, wherever they may be. Amen.
Many end this prayer with the one to the Guardian Angel or by reading Psalm 90, the psalm of protection.
Prayer for someone who has had an accident
A prayer in your own words (suggested by us, not a liturgical text):
Lord, Physician of souls and bodies, I bring before You Your servant (name), injured in an accident. Ease his pain, strengthen his body, enlighten the hands and minds of the doctors caring for him. Give him courage and peace, and to us who are waiting for news, give patience and trust. Amen.
For the days in hospital and recovery, you can also use the prayer for the sick and the guide on prayer for health.
Prayer after an accident, for peace of soul
Even when no one has been seriously injured, the shock remains: the images come back, and the fear of getting behind the wheel again or crossing the street appears.
Lord, I thank You for protecting me. Take from me the fright and the images that trouble me. Give me the confidence to go out on the road again, carefully but without fear. And if I did something wrong, teach me to put right what can be put right. Amen.
If the fear, nightmares or tension persist for weeks after the event, it is good to talk to a doctor or psychologist. The prayer for anxiety can also support you.
The saints we pray to for protection
- The Mother of God – Christians pray for her Protection in every danger;
- Saint Nicholas – traditionally honoured as the protector of travellers and of those in danger on the road or at sea (feast day on December 6);
- The Holy Unmercenary Physicians, such as Saint Panteleimon and Saints Cosmas and Damian – for the injured and the sick;
- The Guardian Angel – the companion of every Christian from the day of Baptism.
For official texts addressed to these saints, use an approved Orthodox prayer book or ask a priest for advice.
Practical steps together with prayer
- Pray before setting off, even just a single line, and make the sign of the cross.
- Rest before long journeys and do not drive tired; prayer does not replace caution.
- Give a list of names for commemoration at church for the injured and for those who drive every day.
- End the day with thanksgiving for the journeys that ended well.
If you feel that unfortunate events keep repeating in your life and you need protection and inner cleansing, the materials in the Unbindings for Cleansing & Protection collection can support you, alongside prayer.
Frequently asked questions
What prayer should I say before setting off by car?
A short prayer for protection, like the one above, followed by the prayer to the Guardian Angel. What matters is to say it attentively, not as an automatic gesture.
Which saint protects from accidents?
In the Orthodox tradition, prayers for protection on the road are offered especially to the Mother of God, Saint Nicholas and the Guardian Angel. There is no single “correct” saint – what matters is the faith with which you pray.
How do I pray for someone in serious condition after an accident?
Pray often and briefly, mentioning them by their baptismal name, and submit their name for commemoration at the Liturgy. Let the doctors do their work and ask for light and skill for them.
Why am I afraid to drive again after an accident?
It is a natural reaction after a shock. Prayer, a gradual return to driving over short distances and, if needed, the support of a specialist can help you overcome the fear.
