Compline offers a simple way to draw closer to God each night

This Advent, Archbishop Michael G. McGovern is encouraging Catholics in northeast Nebraska to set aside time each evening for Compline, also known as night prayer.

In a video message to Catholics in the Archdiocese of Omaha, the archbishop spoke of why it is important to join the Church before going to sleep each night – especially during Advent.

“It’s a beautiful form of prayer. I think it’s an appropriate form of prayer, especially in these Advent days, that we may truly open our hearts and prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ,” the archbishop said in his video message. “To celebrate His great love by spending time in prayer each and every evening of Advent 2025.”

Compline, or night prayer, is part of the Liturgy of the Hours, a set of daily prayers that includes Psalms, Scripture readings and hymns offered at specific times each day. The word “Compline” comes from the Latin “completorium,” meaning “to complete” or “to fill up.” It is a simple, spiritual way to close the day that allows for reflection and the opportunity to draw closer to God in the moments before sleep.

Watch Archbishop McGovern’s video message below. For a copy of the Compline Prayer Guide, visit the archdiocese website.