Facing surgery—whether minor or major—can be a daunting experience filled with anxiety, uncertainty, and physical vulnerability. For Catholics, prayer becomes a sacred anchor of strength during such moments. Turning to God in prayer before surgery not only calms the heart but also invites divine healing, grace, and peace into the process. It becomes a way of surrendering our human fears into the hands of the Great Physician.
25 Powerful Catholic Prayers Before Surgery offers you a collection of heartfelt, Scripture-based prayers that can be spoken privately, with loved ones, or even with your priest. These prayers serve different emotional and spiritual needs—whether you’re praying for courage, for a successful operation, for the doctors and nurses, or for your family members. They cover the entire experience of surgery, from the anxious moments before entering the operating room to the recovery process afterward.
Each prayer in this collection is paired with a carefully selected Bible verse to provide spiritual grounding and comfort. Catholic tradition teaches us the value of uniting our suffering with Christ and trusting in God’s will. These prayers will guide you to do just that, even as you place your physical health into the care of medical professionals.
As you or your loved one prepare for surgery, may these prayers serve as a reminder that you are not alone—God walks with you, His angels surround you, and the Church intercedes for you. Take comfort in these words and let them be your shield, your strength, and your peace.
25 Powerful Catholic Prayers Before Surgery in 2025
1. A Prayer for Courage Before Surgery
Dear Lord, I come to You with a heart full of anxiety. I am about to undergo surgery, and I need Your courage to face this procedure. Calm my fears, O Lord, and fill me with peace that surpasses all understanding. Help me trust that You are with me, guiding the hands of the surgeons and medical staff. Let Your grace uphold me and strengthen my body for a successful operation. I surrender all to You, knowing that You are my Healer and Sustainer.
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Father, I trust that You are with me as I walk through this challenge. Let courage rise in me and fear be cast away. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, grant me divine courage and peace in the face of this surgery. May Your presence be my strength.
2. A Prayer for a Successful Surgery
Heavenly Father, as I prepare for surgery, I ask for Your hand to guide every moment. May the procedure go smoothly without complications. Bless the surgeons with wisdom and skill. Let everything that is done bring about healing and wholeness. I put my complete trust in Your divine will and providence. Thank You for being with me and surrounding me with Your love.
Jeremiah 30:17
“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord.” Lord, I believe in Your power to heal and restore. May this surgery be a step toward the full health You have promised. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, bless the surgery with success and let it bring the healing I need. Guide every hand involved.
3. A Prayer for Peace of Mind
Gracious Lord, as I prepare for surgery, my heart is restless. Fill me with Your peace, calm my racing thoughts, and let me rest in Your presence. Remind me that You are in control and I am safe in Your care. May Your peace guard my heart and mind throughout this entire experience.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” God of peace, I surrender my fears to You. Replace my anxiety with divine tranquility. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, fill me with calmness and serenity. Let Your peace reign in my mind and soul before surgery.
4. A Prayer for the Surgeons and Medical Team
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Father, pour out wisdom upon the medical team. Let their work reflect Your grace and skill. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, anoint every medical professional with wisdom and precision. Let Your Spirit guide their hands and hearts.
5. A Prayer for Family Strength During Surgery
Lord Jesus, I ask You to strengthen and comfort my family while I am in surgery. Give them peace and assurance that You are with me. Help them to trust in Your timing and will. Keep them from fear, and surround them with support and love.
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” Father, strengthen my loved ones with the same peace and courage You give me. Let them be comforted. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, give my family strength, comfort, and faith as they await the results of my surgery.
6. A Prayer for Trust in God’s Plan
Dear God, I don’t fully understand why this surgery is needed, but I trust in Your divine plan. You work all things for good. I surrender my worries and outcomes into Your capable hands. Let this be part of Your purpose for my healing.
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Father, I trust that even this moment is part of Your loving plan for me. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, help me trust that You are working through this surgery for my ultimate good and healing.
7. A Prayer Before Being Wheeled Into Surgery
Lord, the time has come. As I’m wheeled into the operating room, calm my heart. Hold my hand, Lord Jesus, and stay with me. I am Yours, and I know You are near. Fill the room with Your presence and peace.
Psalm 23:4
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” God, walk with me into that room. I will fear no evil because You are by my side. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, be physically close to me as I go into surgery. Surround me with Your comforting presence.
8. A Prayer for Guardian Angels to Watch Over Me
Heavenly Father, I ask You to send Your holy angels to watch over me during this surgery. Let them surround the room, protect my spirit, and guide the hands of all who attend to me. Let no harm come to me.
Psalm 91:11
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” God, I trust that Your angels are assigned to protect me. Let them keep me safe and bring peace. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, dispatch Your holy angels to protect and comfort me as I undergo surgery.
9. A Prayer of Thanksgiving Before Surgery
Lord, before I even go into surgery, I thank You for the gift of life, medical care, and the people who love me. I am grateful for Your provision and mercy. Thank You for this opportunity for healing.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Father, I thank You in advance for the healing You are bringing. Let gratitude fill my heart. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, I offer You praise and thanks even in uncertainty. I trust You and thank You for all You’re doing.
10. A Prayer for Physical Healing Through Surgery
Lord Jesus, You are the Divine Physician. Use this surgery as an instrument for my healing. Renew my body, correct what is wrong, and restore me to good health. May this procedure bring about full recovery.
Exodus 15:26
“For I am the Lord who heals you.” Father, I place my body in Your healing hands. Bring wellness through this surgery. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, heal me completely through this surgery. Let Your divine touch mend every part of my body.
11. A Prayer for Surrender to God’s Will
Dear Lord, as I face this surgery, I lay down my fears, desires, and expectations at Your feet. Let Your will be done in my life. You know what is best for me, far beyond what I can understand. Grant me the grace to surrender completely, trusting that You are working for my good and Your glory.
Luke 22:42
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” Jesus, give me the strength to surrender as You did. May Your perfect will be fulfilled. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, I surrender my surgery, healing, and future into Your divine hands. Let Your will be done in me.
12. A Prayer for Divine Presence in the Operating Room
Lord God, I ask that Your holy presence fill the operating room. Let it be a sanctuary of healing and peace. Touch every instrument, every doctor and nurse, and let Your Spirit reign over the space. May all be done under Your divine supervision and grace.
Psalm 139:7
“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” Father, I trust that You are already there before me. Be present and take control. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, fill the operating room with Your Spirit and cover every moment with Your healing presence.
13. A Prayer for Calm Before Anesthesia
Dear God, as I prepare to be put under anesthesia, calm my nerves and silence every fear. Let me fall asleep with trust in You and awaken to the hope of healing. Watch over me in unconsciousness and surround me with Your divine peace.
Proverbs 3:24
“When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.” Lord, may I rest in peace under anesthesia, with full trust in Your care. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, grant me peaceful rest during anesthesia. Let me awaken safely in Your perfect time.
14. A Prayer for Protection from Complications
Heavenly Father, I ask that You protect me from any complications or unexpected issues during surgery. Let everything go smoothly, with no errors or delays. Shield me from infection, excessive bleeding, or harm. May Your divine protection surround me like a wall of fire.
Isaiah 54:17
“No weapon formed against you shall prosper…” Lord, may no complication or danger succeed. Cover me in Your armor of divine protection. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, shield me from every complication and let this surgery bring healing without harm.
15. A Prayer for Spiritual Strength
Dear Jesus, my spirit feels weak. Strengthen me spiritually as I go through this medical journey. Help me to rely not on my own strength, but on Your Spirit. When I feel afraid or weary, remind me that You are my stronghold.
Isaiah 40:29
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Lord, renew my spirit and uphold me with Your strength during this time. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, strengthen my faith and spirit. Let me find peace and courage in Your word and promises.
16. A Prayer of Hope for Recovery
Gracious Father, I hold on to the hope that You are with me now and in the recovery ahead. May this surgery be the beginning of renewed strength and restored health. Fill my heart with the hope that healing is possible and already unfolding.
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him…” Lord, fill me with hope and joy as I look toward a full recovery through You. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, plant deep hope in my heart for healing and strength during recovery.
17. A Prayer to Unite My Suffering With Christ
Lord Jesus, as I face the pain and weakness of this surgery, I unite my suffering with Yours on the Cross. Let my trials be offered in love for the redemption of the world and for the intentions You know I carry in my heart.
Colossians 1:24
“Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake…” Lord, I offer my suffering in union with Yours. May it be redemptive and bring blessings. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, let my suffering be united with Yours and used for Your glory and the good of others.
18. A Prayer for Comfort in Waiting
Dear God, as I wait for the moment of surgery, let Your comfort surround me like a warm embrace. Ease the restlessness of waiting, and fill my heart with trust. Let my waiting be worship, and my stillness be filled with peace.
Lamentations 3:25
“The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him.” Father, I will wait on You. Let Your presence be enough for me in this moment. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, comfort me in the waiting. May this stillness be filled with Your grace and nearness.
19. A Prayer for Grace to Endure Pain
Jesus, I know there may be pain after this surgery. Give me grace to endure it with patience and faith. Strengthen my body to handle recovery, and my heart to keep praising You even in discomfort. Let each ache draw me closer to You.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Lord, be my strength in pain. Let Your grace sustain me and renew me. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, give me grace to endure pain patiently and turn every moment into praise.
20. A Prayer for Healing According to God’s Timing
Dear Lord, I know healing may not be instant, but I trust in Your timing. Help me be patient as I recover. Teach me to rely on You every step of the way. Let my healing be full, lasting, and complete in Your perfect time.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Lord, I trust in Your timing. Heal me in the way and moment that brings You glory. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, teach me patience during recovery. May Your timing bring complete and lasting healing.
21. A Prayer of Gratitude After a Successful Surgery
Lord, thank You for bringing me through surgery. Thank You for guiding the doctors and sustaining me. I give You all glory for this victory. May my healing be a testimony of Your mercy and power. Continue to strengthen and restore me fully.
Psalm 107:20-21
“He sent out his word and healed them… Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love.” God, I praise You for this healing. May my life reflect Your love and faithfulness. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, I thank You for a successful surgery. Continue to restore my health and be glorified through it.
22. A Prayer for Ongoing Recovery
Dear God, the surgery is over, but recovery still lies ahead. Please be with me in every moment. Help my body heal well and my strength return day by day. Remove all fear and replace it with trust and peace.
Psalm 30:2
“Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.” Lord, I trust You to complete the healing You’ve started. Walk with me through recovery. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, walk with me every step of this recovery. Strengthen me daily and complete the healing You’ve begun.
23. A Prayer for Trusting God’s Healing Power
Lord, sometimes I wonder if healing will come, but I choose to believe in Your power. Nothing is impossible for You. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your divine ability to heal me, whether through surgery or miracle.
Matthew 19:26
“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Lord, I believe You are able. Let Your healing power be made known in my life. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, I trust in Your healing power. Let nothing hinder the miracle You intend for me.
24. A Prayer for Inner Healing Alongside Physical Healing
Father, while I seek physical healing, I also ask for healing of my heart and soul. Heal every emotional wound, every scar from the past. Use this time to make me whole inside and out.
Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” God, make me whole in body and spirit. Heal me from the inside out. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, heal me completely — body, mind, and soul. Let me rise from this surgery whole and renewed.
25. A Prayer of Total Surrender and Faith
Lord, I place everything in Your hands—my body, my future, my fears, and my life. I surrender all. Increase my faith to believe that no matter what happens, You are good and You are with me. I trust You completely.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and he will make your paths straight.” Lord, I trust You with every part of this journey. Be my strength and guide. Amen.
Prayers
Lord, I surrender all to You. Strengthen my faith and guide me on the path to full restoration.
Conclusion
Undergoing surgery can test not only the body but also the soul. It is a moment where faith meets fragility, and trust in God becomes more important than ever. In such times, prayer allows us to step away from fear and step into God’s perfect peace.
The 25 Powerful Catholic Prayers Before Surgery are more than just words—they are a spiritual toolkit for navigating a challenging season with divine help. Whether you are facing surgery yourself or praying on behalf of someone you love, these prayers help align your heart with God’s will and fill you with the hope of healing.
From asking God to guide the hands of surgeons to seeking peace during anesthesia, these prayers offer a holistic and faith-filled approach to the surgical journey. Each Bible verse was chosen to reinforce the truth that God is ever-present, always healing, and forever merciful.
Remember, healing comes in many forms—physical restoration, emotional peace, and spiritual renewal. These prayers invite you to open yourself to every kind of healing God desires to give. And no matter the outcome of surgery, you can rest in the confidence that God’s plan is always for your good.
As you continue to trust God in the days ahead, keep returning to these prayers. They are a lifeline of grace and a reminder that the Lord who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it. May your heart be calm, your faith strong, and your recovery full. Amen.
