The service of Compline derives its name from the Latin word completorium meaning “completion.” It is a prayer of quietness and reflection, and is most effective following the completion of one’s daily work. Compline is perhaps the easiest prayer to add to your daily prayer life as it takes place right before bedtime.

As Nighttime Falls is an attempt to bring the richness of Compline Prayer to a wider audience. This collection contains one complete compline service for each day of the week. Each prayer lasts about 15–20 minutes and includes an introduction, an examination of conscience, a hymn, psalmody, a scripture reading, a responsory, the Canticle of Simeon, a concluding prayer, and a blessing. Finally, each day concludes with the beautiful antiphon to the Blessed Virgin Mary, “Salve Regina.”

As Nighttime Falls can be used to end youth retreats, Marriage Encounter weekends, parish missions, and other evening events. The companion 2-CD set contains seven complete compline services, one for each night of the week. You can pray in solitude just before going to sleep using the recording of As Nighttime Falls. It can also be used in communities when no pastoral musician is available.

The enchanting Celtic charm of the hymn selections and psalms in this collection will engage you and draw you into this rich tradition of the church. At the end of each day let As Nighttime Falls offer you a way to give gratitude for the beauty and wonder of God.