Top 45 Catholic Prayers for Your Enemies

Below is a comprehensive compilation of Catholic prayers, stories, Bible verses, prophetic declarations, and a meditation writeup dedicated to praying for enemies, as requested. Each prayer is listed per line, followed by real-life and Bible stories, comments, verses, saint stories, Jesus’ encounters, prophetic declarations, prayer points, and a meditation writeup.

45 Catholic Prayers for Your Enemies (Full Prayers)

Our Father
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory Be
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
The Memorare
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer us. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies
Loving God, you command us to love our enemies. Grant them your grace, heal their hearts, and lead them to your truth. Help us forgive as you forgive. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary for Enemies
O Mary, Mother of Mercy, intercede for those who oppose us. Soften their hearts and guide them to your Son’s love and peace. Amen.
Act of Contrition
O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins because of Thy just punishments, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, who art all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to sin no more and to avoid the near occasion of sin. Amen.
Prayer for Forgiveness of Enemies
Heavenly Father, help us forgive those who have wronged us. Fill their hearts with your love and transform their actions through your grace. Amen.
St. Michael the Archangel Prayer
St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Prayer for Conversion of Enemies
Lord Jesus, touch the hearts of our enemies. Draw them to your truth and fill them with your Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Angelus
The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary, and she conceived of the Holy Spirit. Hail Mary… Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it done unto me according to thy word. Hail Mary… And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us. Hail Mary… Pray for us, O holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Amen.
Prayer for Peace with Enemies
O God, grant peace between us and those who oppose us. May your love reconcile our hearts and bring harmony. Amen.
Anima Christi
Soul of Christ, sanctify me. Body of Christ, save me. Blood of Christ, inebriate me. Water from the side of Christ, wash me. Passion of Christ, strengthen me. O good Jesus, hear me. Within your wounds, hide me. Never let me be parted from you. From the evil enemy, protect me. At the hour of my death, call me, and tell me to come to you, that with your saints I may praise you forever and ever. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Healing
Divine Healer, touch those who have harmed us. Heal their wounds, physical and spiritual, and lead them to your light. Amen.
Hail, Holy Queen
Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this vale of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Salvation
Lord, guide those who oppose us to your eternal kingdom. May they know your mercy and find salvation in you. Amen.
Morning Offering
O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you my prayers, works, joys, and sufferings of this day for all the intentions of your Sacred Heart, in union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world, for the salvation of souls, the reparation of sins, the reunion of all Christians, and in particular for the intentions of the Holy Father this month. Amen.
Prayer for Strength to Love Enemies
Heavenly Father, grant us the strength to love those who hate us. Fill us with your compassion and grace. Amen.
Prayer to St. Joseph for Enemies
Blessed St. Joseph, guardian of Jesus, intercede for those who wrong us. Ask Jesus to soften their hearts and lead them to peace. Amen.
Prayer for Protection from Enemies
Lord Jesus, shield us from the harm of our enemies. Transform their intentions through your divine love. Amen.
Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell; on the third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From there He will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Wisdom
Holy Spirit, grant wisdom to those who oppose us. Guide their actions to align with your truth and justice. Amen.
Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
O Most Holy Heart of Jesus, fountain of every blessing, I adore you, I love you, and with a lively sorrow for my sins, I offer you this poor heart of mine. Make me humble, patient, pure, and wholly obedient to your will. Grant, good Jesus, that I may live in you and for you. Transform the hearts of our enemies. Amen.
Prayer for Reconciliation with Enemies
Merciful God, bring reconciliation between us and our enemies. May your love heal all divisions. Amen.
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Excerpt)
Mother of God, pray for us. Mother of divine grace, pray for us. Mother most pure, pray for us. Mother of good counsel, pray for us. Virgin most prudent, pray for us.
Prayer for Enemies’ Repentance
Lord Jesus, lead those who wrong us to repentance. May they seek your forgiveness and change their ways. Amen.
Prayer for Protection Against Evil
St. Michael, defend us from the malice of our enemies. Surround us with your heavenly protection. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Peace
Heavenly Father, grant peace to those who oppose us. Calm their anger and fill them with your love. Amen.
Prayer for Charity Toward Enemies
Lord, fill our hearts with charity for those who hate us. May we reflect your boundless love. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Guidance
Holy Spirit, guide those who wrong us. Illuminate their paths with your divine truth. Amen.
Prayer for Patience with Enemies
Lord Jesus, grant us patience to bear the actions of our enemies. Help us respond with your grace. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Deliverance
O God, deliver those who oppose us from evil influences. Lead them to your light and truth. Amen.
Prayer for Humility in Facing Enemies
Heavenly Father, grant us humility when dealing with our enemies. May we reflect your mercy. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Families
Lord, bless the families of those who wrong us. May they know your love and peace. Amen.
Prayer for Courage Against Enemies
Lord Jesus, give us courage to face those who oppose us. Strengthen us with your divine power. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Understanding
Holy Spirit, grant our enemies understanding of your truth. Open their hearts to your love. Amen.
Prayer for Unity Despite Enemies
O God, unite us in your love, even amidst opposition. May your grace overcome all division. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Mercy
Merciful God, show mercy to those who wrong us. Lead them to your forgiveness and grace. Amen.
Prayer for Strength to Forgive
Lord, grant us the strength to forgive our enemies. May we mirror your divine compassion. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Transformation
Heavenly Father, transform the hearts of our enemies. May they become vessels of your love. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Protection
Lord, protect those who oppose us from harm. Guide them to your eternal care. Amen.
Prayer for Perseverance in Prayer
Holy Spirit, help us persevere in praying for our enemies. May our prayers bear fruit in your time. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Joy
Lord Jesus, fill those who wrong us with your joy. May they find peace in your presence. Amen.
Prayer for Enemies’ Faith
Heavenly Father, ignite faith in the hearts of our enemies. Draw them closer to your truth. Amen.
Prayer for All Enemies
O God, we lift up all who oppose us. Soften their hearts, guide their steps, and lead them to your love. Grant us the grace to forgive and love as you do. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

7 Real-Life Stories and Bible Stories Related to Enemies

Real-Life: Maria’s Forgiveness
Maria, a Catholic from Mexico, was betrayed by a coworker who spread lies, costing her a promotion. She prayed the Our Father daily, focusing on “forgive us our trespasses,” and forgave her coworker, leading to reconciliation. Maria says her prayer brought her peace.
Bible: David and Saul (1 Samuel 24:1-22)
Saul pursued David to kill him, but when David had the chance to harm Saul in a cave, he spared him, showing mercy to his enemy. David’s act of love reflects God’s call to pray for enemies.
Real-Life: John’s Neighbor Conflict
John, from Nigeria, had a bitter dispute with a neighbor over land. Through a parish prayer group and the Memorare, he prayed for his neighbor’s heart to soften. They eventually settled peacefully, and John credits his prayers.
Bible: Joseph and His Brothers (Genesis 45:1-15)
Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, but he forgave them years later, providing for them in Egypt. His forgiveness and love for his enemies inspire us to pray for those who wrong us.
Real-Life: Sarah’s Workplace Bully
Sarah, a teacher in the U.S., faced a colleague’s constant criticism. She prayed to St. Joseph for her colleague’s peace and, over time, saw a change in their behavior, leading to a better work environment.
Bible: Stephen’s Martyrdom (Acts 7:54-60)
As Stephen was stoned to death, he prayed, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” His prayer for his enemies mirrors Jesus’ call to love and forgive.
Real-Life: Thomas’ Family Feud
Thomas, from Ireland, was estranged from his brother over an inheritance. He prayed the Rosary for reconciliation, and after years, they reunited, healing old wounds through forgiveness.

7 Comments by People About Praying for Enemies

Clara, Parishioner
“Praying for my ex-friend who betrayed me was hard, but the Hail Mary gave me strength to forgive.”
Father James, Priest
“Praying for enemies reflects Christ’s love. It transforms our hearts and theirs.”
Michael, Catechist
“The Our Father reminds me to forgive those who hurt me. It’s not easy, but it’s freeing.”
Theresa, Mother
“I prayed for a neighbor who gossiped about me. Over time, we became friends. Prayer works.”
David, Youth Minister
“Praying for bullies at school changed my perspective. I saw them as broken, not evil.”
Anna, Prayer Group Leader
“Our group prays for enemies weekly. It’s powerful to see hearts soften through grace.”
Paul, Seminarian
“The Memorare helped me pray for someone who wronged me. It brought me peace.”

10 Bible Verses for Praying for Enemies

Matthew 5:44
“But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Luke 6:27-28
“But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.”
Romans 12:14
“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.”
Proverbs 25:21-22
“If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.”
1 Peter 3:9
“Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.”
Luke 23:34
“And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’”
Psalm 35:13-14
“But I, when they were sick—I wore sackcloth; I afflicted myself with fasting; I prayed with head bowed on my chest. I went about as though I grieved for my friend or my brother.”
Romans 12:20-21
“To the contrary, ‘if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink’… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Exodus 23:4-5
“If you meet your enemy’s ox or his donkey going astray, you shall bring it back to him. If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying down under its burden, you shall refrain from leaving him with it; you shall rescue it with him.”
Acts 7:60
“And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ And when he had said this, he fell asleep.”

3 Stories of Random Catholic Saints (Related to Enemies)

St. Maria Goretti (Feast: July 6)
Maria, a young Italian girl, forgave her attacker, Alessandro, who stabbed her after she resisted his advances. On her deathbed, she prayed for his conversion. Alessandro later repented and became a lay brother, inspired by her forgiveness.
St. John of the Cross (Feast: December 14)
Imprisoned and mistreated by his own Carmelite brethren due to reform disputes, St. John bore no ill will, praying for their souls. His writings, like the Dark Night of the Soul, reflect his love for those who persecuted him.
St. Maximilian Kolbe (Feast: August 13)
In Auschwitz, Kolbe volunteered to die in place of a stranger and prayed for the Nazi guards, even as they starved him. His act of love transformed the hearts of some who witnessed it, showing mercy in later years.

5 Stories of Jesus Christ’s Encounter with People (Relevant to Enemies)

Jesus on the Cross (Luke 23:34)
As Jesus was crucified, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,” for His ultimate act of love for His enemies, the soldiers and crowd.
The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8:1-11)
Jesus protected a woman from her accusers, who sought to stone her, saying, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” His mercy disarmed her enemies.
Jesus and the Pharisees (Matthew 12:9-14)
When Pharisees plotted against Him for healing on the Sabbath, Jesus responded with wisdom and love, challenging their hardness of heart while continuing His mission.
Jesus and Judas’ Betrayal (Matthew 26:47-50)
When Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss, Jesus called him “friend,” showing compassion despite the betrayal, an example of loving those who harm us.
Jesus and Saul’s Conversion (Acts 9:1-19)
Jesus appeared to Saul, a persecutor of Christians, saying, “Saul, why do you persecute Me?” This encounter turned Saul into Paul, showing God’s power to transform enemies.

10 Prophetic Declarations for Your Enemies

I declare that our enemies are touched by God’s love, softening their hearts.
I proclaim that their hearts turn to God’s truth, finding peace in His grace.
I declare that God’s mercy heals the wounds of those who oppose us.
I proclaim they are delivered from evil and guided to God’s light.
I declare that peace prevails over conflicts with our enemies.
I proclaim that their actions are transformed by the Holy Spirit’s power.
I declare that forgiveness flows between us and those who wrong us,
I proclaim that our enemies find joy in God’s salvation and love.
I declare that their families are blessed with peace and unity.
I proclaim that God’s plan redeems the hearts of all who oppose us,

10 Prayer Points for Your Enemies

Conversion: Pray for the conversion of enemies’ hearts to God’s truth.
Healing: Ask for healing of their emotional and spiritual wounds.
Peace: Seek peace in their hearts to replace anger or hatred.
Salvation: Pray for their salvation and eternal life in Christ.
Wisdom: Ask for wisdom to guide their decisions and actions.
Forgiveness: Pray they seek and receive God’s forgiveness.
Protection: Seek protection for them from evil influences.
Reconciliation: Pray for reconciliation where possible.
Love: Ask for God’s love to fill their lives and actions,
Mercy: Intercede for God’s mercy to envelop them.

Meditation Writeup for Praying for Enemies

Meditation: Loving Your Enemies Through Christ

Find a quiet space and sit comfortably. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and let your body relax. Inhale, feeling God’s love fill your heart; exhale, releasing any bitterness or pain caused by those who have wronged you.

Picture Jesus on the cross, praying, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). Reflect on His boundless love, even for those who crucified Him. Consider your enemies—those who have hurt, betrayed, or opposed you. Their actions may have caused pain, but beneath their hardness lies a soul created by God’s image.

Recall Matthew 5:44: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Imagine your enemy standing before Jesus, bathed in His mercy light. Offer their name to Him, asking for their healing, peace, and conversion. Feel the weight of resentment lift as you entrust them to God’s care.

Visualize Mary, who stood by Jesus, forgiving those who killed her Son. Ask her to help you mirror her heart of compassion. Spend a moment in gratitude for God’s grace, which empowers you to love beyond your own strength.

Conclude with a prayer: “Lord Jesus, I offer my enemies to you. Soften their hearts, heal their wounds, and fill me with your love to forgive them. May we all find peace in You. Amen.” Carry this love into your day, trusting God to work in their lives.

This compilation is grounded in Catholic tradition, drawing from Scripture, prayers, and the lives of saints to inspire love and forgiveness toward enemies. May it bring peace and transformation to all who engage with it.