Prayer Before a Journey
Older Catholic missals and travelers' prayer books include this blessing, rooted in the biblical image of God leading Abraham safely out of his own country. It has long been said before setting out on a long trip, whether by foot, horse, or, in later editions, by car or plane.
O God, who broughtest Abraham out of the land of Ur of the Chaldees, preserving him unhurt amid all the wanderings of his pilgrimage, deign, we beseech thee, to keep us, thy servants, safe. Be to us, O Lord, a support when setting out, companionship on the way, shade in the heat, shelter in the rain and cold, a chariot in weariness, protection in adversity, a staff in slippery places, and a haven amid shipwreck, that under thy guidance we may reach happily the end of our journey. Amen.
