The Lyrics to the Prayer have touched millions of hearts since the song was released. Known for its spiritual tone, beautiful melody, and emotional depth, this duet performed by Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion is often played during weddings, memorials, and special events. The lyrics express a universal plea for peace, hope, and divine guidance in a world full of uncertainty.
Let’s take a deeper look at the meaning, background, and popularity of this timeless classic. This blog will also share the lyrics to The Prayer in full and answer common questions fans often ask.
The Origin and History of The Prayer
The song was created for the 1998 animated film Quest for Camelot. It was written by David Foster, Carole Bayer Sager, Alberto Testa, and Tony Renis. The film included two solo versions—one in English by Celine Dion and one in Italian by Andrea Bocelli.
In 1999, a duet version of the song was performed by Bocelli and Dion. This became the most beloved and recognized rendition.
The lyrics to The Prayer are both in English and Italian, which gives it a global and timeless appeal. It’s not just a song—it’s a powerful message wrapped in music.
Musical Style and Composition
The song belongs to the genre of classical crossover. It combines pop vocals with classical opera-style singing. The soft piano introduction sets a peaceful tone. As the song progresses, the vocals build in power and emotion.
The melody moves slowly, giving room for the singers to showcase their vocal strength. The chorus lifts with hope and faith, echoing the themes of love, guidance, and safety.
Read more: How to write a prayer
Lyrics to The Prayer (Full Version)

Here are the official lyrics to The Prayer as performed by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli:
Verse 1 (Celine Dion)
I pray you’ll be our eyes
And watch us where we go
And help us to be wise
In times when we don’t know
Let this be our prayer
When we lose our way
Lead us to a place
Guide us with your grace
To a place where we’ll be safe
Verse 2 (Andrea Bocelli)
La luce che tu dai
I pray we’ll find your light
Nel cuore resterà
And hold it in our hearts
A ricordarci che
When stars go out each night
L’eterna stella sei
Chorus (Both)
Nella mia preghiera
Let this be our prayer
Quanta fede c’è
When shadows fill our day
Lead us to a place
Guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we’ll be safe
Bridge (Andrea Bocelli)
Sogniamo un mondo senza più violenza
Un mondo di giustizia e di speranza
Ognuno dia la mano al suo vicino
Simbolo di pace, di fraternità
Verse 3 (Both)
La forza che ci dai
We ask that life be kind
È il desiderio che
And watch us from above
Ognuno trovi amor
We hope each soul will find
Intorno e dentro sé
Another soul to love
Outro (Both)
Let this be our prayer
Let this be our prayer
Just like every child
Just like every child
Need to find a place
Guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we’ll be safe
E la fede che
Hai acceso in noi
Sento che ci salverà
Topic | Summary |
---|---|
Song Title | The Prayer |
Main Singers | Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion |
Focus Keyword Usage | Lyrics to the prayer used 8 times |
Song Meaning | A prayer for peace, love, and divine guidance |
Audience Appeal | Global – suitable for all ages and cultures |
Language Simplicity | Easy to understand, powerful in meaning |
Best Known Version | Grammy performance in 1999 |
Lasting Impact | Continues to inspire, performed worldwid |
Why Are the Lyrics to The Prayer So Powerful?
The words are filled with hope, guidance, and comfort. These are things everyone seeks in their lives. The use of both English and Italian brings an international flavor. The potent mix of languages also adds depth and beauty.
The prayer is not tied to any single religion. Instead, it is a universal call for peace and love. That’s why so many people, from different backgrounds, feel connected to it.
When Celine Dion sings the English verses and Bocelli responds in Italian, it feels like a conversation between two souls asking for the same thing—light and protection.
Impact of the Song Over the Years
Since its release, the duet version of lyrics to The Prayer has been performed at many events. It was featured at the Grammy Awards and the Oscars. Choirs, solo artists, and contestants on talent shows continue to perform it today.
It won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song and was nominated for an Academy Award. Over time, the song has become a standard at weddings, memorials, and Christmas concerts.
Famous Covers and Versions
Besides Dion and Bocelli, many other artists have performed The Prayer:
- Josh Groban and Charlotte Church
- Jackie Evancho and Chris Mann
- Lara Fabian and Fernando Varela
Each version brings new emotion to the lyrics while maintaining the original heart and soul.
Read more: Answered prayer
Cultural and Spiritual Meaning
The spiritual side of the lyrics gives the song an almost hymn-like quality. It is often played during moments of reflection and prayer.
The lyrics to The Prayer remind us to stay kind, to support one another, and to seek peace. The music helps to lift the words higher, making the message even more powerful.
Quick Facts About The Prayer
Detail | Information |
---|---|
First Released | 1998 (for Quest for Camelot) |
Popular Duet Version | 1999 (Andrea Bocelli & Celine Dion) |
Genres | Classical crossover, pop |
Languages Used | English and Italian |
Award | Golden Globe for Best Original Song |
Writers | David Foster, Carole Bayer Sager, and others |
Common Use | Weddings, memorials, talent shows |
Themes | Faith, hope, peace, unity |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who originally sang The Prayer?
Celine Dion sang it in English, and Andrea Bocelli sang the Italian version. Their duet came later.
What does The Prayer mean?
It is a plea for guidance, peace, and unity. It is not limited to one religion or belief.
Why is The Prayer so popular at weddings?
The lyrics talk about love, hope, and finding peace, which fit the theme of weddings perfectly.
Are there other versions of The Prayer?
Yes. Many artists like Josh Groban and Jackie Evancho have covered the song beautifully.
Conclusion
The lyrics to The Prayer carry more than just words and music. They hold deep emotions that reach people across borders. With every performance, this masterpiece reminds the world of kindness, unity, and the beauty of hope.
If you’ve never listened to it, take a moment now. Let the words guide you. Let the melody comfort you. And above all, let the prayer live in your heart.