Essential Catholic Prayers
These fundamental prayers form the foundation of Catholic prayer life. Perfect for children learning their first prayers.
Our Father
The Lord's Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
Amen.
Teaching Point:
Jesus taught us this prayer. It includes everything we need: praise, trust, asking for help, and forgiveness.
Hail Mary
Prayer to Our Lady
Hail Mary, full of grace,
the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women,
and blessed is the fruit
of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.
Teaching Point:
This prayer comes from the Angel Gabriel's greeting to Mary and Elizabeth's blessing. We ask Mary to pray for us.
Glory Be
Prayer to the Trinity
Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son,
and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end.
Amen.
Teaching Point:
This prayer praises God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - the three persons of the Trinity.
Daily Prayer Practices
Start and end each day with prayer. These prayers help families create sacred moments throughout the day.
Morning Prayers
Start your day with God
Morning Offering
O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you my prayers, works, joys, and sufferings of this day for all the intentions of your Sacred Heart. Amen.
Simple Morning Prayer
Good morning, God! Thank you for this new day. Please help me to be kind, loving, and good today. Help me to remember you in all I do. Amen.
Evening Prayers
End your day in gratitude
Evening Examination
Dear God, thank you for this day. Help me think about the good things I did and the ways I can do better tomorrow. Forgive me for my mistakes. Keep me safe tonight. Amen.
Guardian Angel Prayer
Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love commits me here, ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.
Meal Blessings
Prayers before and after meals
Before Meals
Bless us, O Lord, and these thy gifts, which we are about to receive from thy bounty, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
After Meals
We give thee thanks, Almighty God, for all thy benefits, who lives and reigns world without end. Amen.
Seasonal & Special Prayers
Prayers for special times of the year and important moments in Catholic life.
Advent
"Come, Lord Jesus! Help us prepare our hearts for your coming at Christmas."
Christmas
"Thank you, God, for sending Jesus to be our Savior. Help us share your love with everyone."
Lent
"Jesus, help me grow closer to you through prayer, fasting, and helping others."
Easter
"Alleluia! Jesus is risen! Thank you for conquering death and giving us eternal life."