The surprising truth about staying awake to pray...

What Are Night Vigils?

In the early church, believers often gathered at night to pray, sing psalms, and wait on God. These vigils were not about losing sleep for the sake of hardship, but about watching with Christ, as He told His disciples in Gethsemane: “Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation” (Matthew 26:41).

What Science Tells Us

At first, staying up to pray might sound unhealthy. But studies show that occasional disruption of routine sleep for meaningful purposes can actually reset circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality afterward. Neuroscience also notes that communal night practices — like prayer or singing — trigger oxytocin release, deepening bonds and reducing feelings of isolation.

For many, night vigils bring a balance of reflection and renewal: the quiet hours help calm the nervous system, while the focused prayer sharpens mental clarity.

How to Try It

• Choose one evening a month to set aside for extended prayer.

• Turn off distractions. Light a candle, read psalms, and pray slowly.

• End with thanksgiving, then rest, trusting God to restore your body and mind.

Why It Matters

Night vigils teach us that rest is more than sleep. True rest is found in God’s presence. Ancient Christians discovered that even in the darkest hours, prayer can renew the soul — and today’s science affirms that such practices help restore both body and spirit.