Ineffable Creator

Prayer before study (Aquinas is said to have prayed this prayer often before he spoke, wrote, or preached.)

Ineffable Creator, Who, from the treasuries of your wisdom have appointed the three hierarchies of the angels, arranging them in wondrous order above the fiery heavens, and have established all parts of the universe so beautifully,

You, whom we call the true source of light and wisdom, the supreme origin of all, be pleased to cast into the darkened places of my mind a ray of your brightness,

remove from me the two-fold darkness of sin and ignorance into which I was born.

You, who make eloquent the tongues of infants, educate my tongue, and pour upon my lips the grace of your blessing.

Grant me keenness of understanding, capacity to remember, method and ease in learning, subtlety to interpret, and abundant grace in speaking.

Guide the beginning of my work, direct its progress, and bring it to completion.

You, Who are true God and true Man, living and reigning forever and ever. Amen.