The Our Father (The Lord's Prayer): The Perfect Prayer Given by Jesus

 

Jesus teaches His disciples the perfect prayer: the Our Father.

The Our Father (The Lord's Prayer)

The Our Father, also known as The Lord's Prayer, is the most important prayer in Christianity. It is the only prayer that Jesus Himself taught His disciples, making it the perfect model for all Christian prayer.

Whenever Catholics pray the Rosary, attend Holy Mass, or begin personal prayer, the Our Father reminds us that God is our loving Father and invites us to trust Him completely.

This beautiful prayer is found in Matthew 6:9–13 and Luke 11:2–4, where Jesus teaches His followers how to pray.

"This, then, is how you should pray..."
— Matthew 6:9

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The Complete Catholic Our Father 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.

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Why Did Jesus Teach This Prayer?

When the disciples asked Jesus,

"Lord, teach us to pray..."

He responded by giving them the Our Father.

Unlike long or complicated prayers, Jesus showed that true prayer comes from a sincere heart filled with trust in God. The Our Father teaches us everything necessary for a holy Christian life:

• Worship God.
• Seek His will.
• Trust Him for our daily needs.
• Ask forgiveness.
• Forgive others.
• Resist temptation.
• Seek God's protection from evil.

Every line contains profound spiritual wisdom.

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Meaning of Each Line of the Our Father

Our Father, Who art in heaven

God is not a distant ruler but our loving Father. Through Jesus Christ, we become His adopted children and may confidently approach Him in prayer.

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Hallowed be Thy name

We ask that God's holy name be honored, praised, and glorified by everyone, beginning with our own lives.

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Thy kingdom come

We pray for God's reign of love, justice, peace, and salvation to spread throughout the world and in our own hearts.

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Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven

This teaches us to surrender our own desires and trust God's perfect plan, even when life is difficult.

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Give us this day our daily bread

We ask God to provide everything we need—food, shelter, health, work, strength, and especially the Bread of Life, Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

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Forgive us our trespasses

We acknowledge our sins and ask for God's mercy, remembering that His forgiveness is always available through sincere repentance.

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As we forgive those who trespass against us

Jesus reminds us that receiving mercy also means extending mercy. Forgiveness frees our hearts and allows God's grace to work within us.

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Lead us not into temptation

We pray for God's guidance so that we remain faithful and avoid situations that may lead us away from Him.

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But deliver us from evil

We ask God to protect us from Satan, sin, spiritual dangers, and every form of evil that threatens our souls.

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The Our Father in the Holy Mass

Catholics pray the Our Father during every celebration of the Holy Mass just before receiving Holy Communion.

This reminds us that we are one family in Christ and prepares our hearts to receive Jesus with humility and forgiveness.

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When Should Catholics Pray the Our Father?

The Our Father may be prayed at any time, especially:

• Every morning upon waking
• Before meals
• During the Holy Rosary
• At Holy Mass
• Before sleeping
• During times of anxiety or suffering
• Before making important decisions
• While praying with family

No matter where we are, this prayer brings us closer to God.

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Lessons We Learn from the Our Father

The Lord's Prayer teaches us to:

• Love God above all things.
• Trust Him every day.
• Depend on Him rather than ourselves.
• Forgive others generously.
• Seek holiness.
• Resist temptation.
• Hope in God's protection.
• Live as faithful children of our Heavenly Father.

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A Reflection on the Lord's Prayer

Every time we pray the Our Father, we are speaking the very words that Jesus gave to His disciples. It is more than a familiar prayer—it is a guide for Christian living.

When we pray slowly and thoughtfully, each line reminds us to trust God, seek His will, forgive freely, and rely on His grace. Whether in moments of joy or sorrow, the Our Father unites us with Christians around the world and draws us into a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father.

May this prayer shape not only our words but also the way we live each day.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is the Our Father called the Lord's Prayer?

It is called the Lord's Prayer because it was taught directly by Jesus Christ (the Lord) to His disciples.

Where is the Our Father found in the Bible?

The prayer appears in Matthew 6:9–13 and Luke 11:2–4.

Why do Catholics pray the Our Father so often?

Because Jesus Himself taught it, the Church considers it the perfect prayer and includes it in the Holy Mass, the Rosary, and many other devotions.

What is the main message of the Our Father?

The prayer teaches us to worship God, trust Him, seek His will, ask for forgiveness, forgive others, and rely on His protection.

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Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for giving us the perfect prayer through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to honor Your holy name, seek Your kingdom, trust in Your providence, and faithfully do Your will each day.

Grant us the grace to forgive others as You forgive us. Protect us from temptation, strengthen us against evil, and keep us close to You always.

May the words of the Our Father become the pattern of our lives, leading us ever closer to Your love and eternal kingdom.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

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Bible References

• Gospel of Matthew 6:9–13
• Gospel of Luke 11:2–4

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Catechism References

For a deeper understanding of the Lord's Prayer, see the Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraphs 2759–2865, which provide a rich explanation of each petition and its significance in Christian life.

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External Resources Authority Links

• Vatican – The Lord's Prayer: https://www.vatican.va/
• United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB): https://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions

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Internal Linking Suggestions

Link of this article to other related posts:

• The Sign of the Cross
• The Apostles' Creed
• The Nicene Creed
• The Holy Rosary
• Glory Be Prayer
• Hail Mary Prayer
• Morning Offering Prayer

The Lord's Prayer (Our Father): The Perfect Prayer Taught by Jesus

The Lord's Prayer (Our Father): Meaning, Bible Verse, and Catholic Explanation

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The Lord's Prayer (Our Father)

The Lord's Prayer, also known as the Our Father, is the most important prayer in Christianity. It was taught by Jesus Christ Himself when His disciples asked Him how they should pray. Every word carries profound meaning and reminds us how to live as faithful children of God.

Catholics pray the Our Father during the Holy Mass, the Rosary, the Liturgy of the Hours, and in personal prayer. It is a daily reminder that God is our loving Father who provides for our needs, forgives our sins, and guides us away from evil.

"Lord, teach us to pray..." (Luke 11:1)

Jesus answered by giving this beautiful prayer.

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The Lord's Prayer (Our Father)

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.

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The Biblical Origin of the Our Father

Jesus taught this prayer in two places in the New Testament:

• Matthew 6:9–13 during the Sermon on the Mount
• Luke 11:2–4 after His disciples asked Him to teach them to pray

The version Catholics commonly pray comes primarily from Matthew's Gospel.

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Meaning of the Lord's Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven

Jesus teaches us that God is not distant but our loving Father. We belong to one family, making all believers brothers and sisters in Christ.

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Hallowed be Thy Name

We ask that God's holy name be honored, loved, and glorified throughout the world.

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Thy Kingdom Come

We pray for God's reign of peace, justice, and love to spread throughout the earth and for Christ's final coming.

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Thy Will Be Done

Rather than insisting on our own plans, we surrender ourselves to God's perfect will, trusting that His wisdom is greater than ours.

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Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread

We ask God to provide everything we need today:

• Food
• Shelter
• Health
• Strength
• Employment
• Peace

Catholics also understand "daily bread" as referring to the Holy Eucharist, the Bread of Life.

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Forgive Us Our Trespasses

We humbly ask forgiveness for our sins.

But Jesus also reminds us that receiving God's mercy requires a forgiving heart toward others.

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As We Forgive Those Who Trespass Against Us

Forgiveness is central to Christian life.

When we forgive others, we imitate the mercy God continually shows us.

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Lead Us Not into Temptation

God never tempts anyone to sin.

Instead, we ask Him to strengthen us against temptation and help us remain faithful when trials come.

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Deliver Us from Evil

We ask God to protect us from:

• Sin
• Satan
• Spiritual dangers
• Evil influences
• Eternal separation from Him

This final petition expresses complete trust in God's saving power.

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Why Catholics Pray the Our Father Every Day

The Lord's Prayer teaches us to:

• Put God first
• Trust Him completely
• Ask for daily needs
• Seek forgiveness
• Forgive others
• Resist temptation
• Hope for eternal life

It contains everything we truly need to ask God.

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What the Catechism Says

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2759–2865) calls the Lord's Prayer:

"The summary of the whole Gospel."

Saint Augustine likewise described it as containing everything we should rightly ask of God.

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Tips for Praying the Our Father More Meaningfully

Instead of rushing through the prayer, pause briefly after each petition.

Reflect on questions such as:

• Am I honoring God's name today?
• Am I seeking God's will over my own?
• Have I forgiven those who hurt me?
• Do I trust God with today's needs?

Praying slowly allows the words of Jesus to shape our hearts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called the Lord's Prayer?

Because Jesus Himself taught it to His disciples.

Is the Our Father found in the Bible?

Yes. It appears in Matthew 6:9–13 and Luke 11:2–4.

Why do Catholics pray it during Mass?

The Our Father prepares the faithful to receive Holy Communion by expressing trust, forgiveness, and unity as God's family.

Can I pray the Our Father every day?

Absolutely. Many Catholics pray it several times daily, especially during morning prayer, the Rosary, before meals, and at bedtime.

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Final Reflection

The Lord's Prayer is more than words to memorize—it is a guide for Christian living. Every petition invites us into a deeper relationship with God and teaches us to trust Him in every circumstance.

Whenever you pray the Our Father, remember that these are the very words Jesus gave us. By praying them with faith and sincerity, we draw closer to our Heavenly Father and grow in holiness each day.

"For your Father knows what you need before you ask Him." — Matthew 6:8

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Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the perfect prayer through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to honor Your holy name, seek Your will above our own, trust You for our daily needs, forgive others as You forgive us, and remain faithful in every trial. Deliver us from evil and lead us always on the path that brings us closer to You. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Suggested Internal Links

Link to your related blog posts:

• The Sign of the Cross
• The Apostles' Creed
• The Nicene Creed
• Hail Mary Prayer
• Holy Rosary: Complete Guide
• Chaplet of St. Gertrude
• Prayer to Saint Michael
• Catholic Spiritual Survival Guide

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Recommended External Authority References

• United States Conference of Catholic Bishops – The Lord's Prayer: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/matthew/6
• Vatican – Catechism of the Catholic Church (The Lord's Prayer): https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_INDEX.HTM
• Vatican – Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 6: https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0839/__PVM.HTM

Glory Be Prayer (Doxology): Meaning, History, and How Catholics Pray It

 

Glory Be Prayer (Doxology): Meaning, History, and Catholic Tradition

Glory Be Prayer (Doxology)

The Glory Be, also known as the Gloria Patri (Latin for "Glory to the Father"), is one of the shortest yet most profound prayers in the Catholic Church. It is a prayer of praise offered directly to the Holy Trinity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Catholics pray the Glory Be during the Holy Rosary, the Liturgy of the Hours, Eucharistic Adoration, novenas, chaplets, and personal prayer. Although brief, it reminds us that our lives should always end in giving glory to God.

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The Glory Be Prayer

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.

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The Glory Be in Latin (Gloria Patri)

Gloria Patri, et Filio,
et Spiritui Sancto.
Sicut erat in principio,
et nunc, et semper,
et in saecula saeculorum.
Amen.

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What Does the Glory Be Mean?

Every line of the prayer proclaims an important truth of our Catholic faith.

"Glory be to the Father"

We praise God the Father, the Creator of heaven and earth, who lovingly created us and continually cares for His children.

"And to the Son"

We honor Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who redeemed us through His Passion, Death, and Resurrection.

"And to the Holy Spirit"

We glorify the Holy Spirit, who sanctifies the Church, strengthens believers, and guides us toward holiness.

"As it was in the beginning"

God's glory has existed from all eternity. Before creation itself, the Holy Trinity already existed in perfect unity.

"Is now"

God deserves our praise today, in every circumstance—whether in joy, suffering, gratitude, or trial.

"And ever shall be"

God's glory never ends. He remains faithful forever.

"World without end"

This ancient expression means eternity. God's kingdom and His glory will never pass away.

"Amen"

We conclude by affirming, "So be it," expressing our wholehearted belief and trust.

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Why Catholics Pray the Glory Be

The Glory Be reminds us that prayer is not only about asking God for blessings—it is also about worship, thanksgiving, and giving Him the honor He deserves.

Catholics often pray the Glory Be:

• After each decade of the Holy Rosary
• During Divine Mercy Chaplet prayers
• During the Liturgy of the Hours
• At the end of many psalms
• After personal prayers
• During Eucharistic Adoration
• Before and after Scripture reading

Its simplicity makes it easy to memorize, while its meaning leads us into deep contemplation of the mystery of the Holy Trinity.

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Biblical Foundation of the Glory Be

Although the exact wording does not appear as one verse in Scripture, its message is deeply biblical.

Praise belongs to God forever

"To Him be glory forever. Amen."
— Romans 11:36

Glory to the Father and the Son

Jesus continually glorified the Father and taught His disciples to do the same.

"Father, glorify your name."
— John 12:28

The Holy Trinity

Jesus commanded His disciples:

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

— Matthew 28:19

These passages reflect the Trinitarian faith expressed in the Glory Be.

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History of the Glory Be

The Glory Be dates back to the earliest centuries of Christianity.

Early Christians frequently ended the Psalms by giving praise to the Holy Trinity. During the fourth century, as the Church defended the divinity of Christ and the Holy Spirit against heresies such as Arianism, the Gloria Patri became a clear profession of orthodox Christian belief.

Over the centuries, it became part of the Church's official liturgy and remains one of the most frequently prayed prayers throughout the world.

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The Glory Be in the Holy Rosary

After each mystery of the Rosary, Catholics pray:

• The Our Father
• Ten Hail Marys
• The Glory Be
• (Usually followed by the Fatima Prayer)

This reminds us that every meditation on the life of Christ ultimately leads us to glorify the Holy Trinity.

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Spiritual Benefits of Praying the Glory Be

Praying the Glory Be regularly helps us:

• Grow in love for the Holy Trinity
• Develop a spirit of praise and gratitude
• Keep God at the center of daily life
• Strengthen our faith in the eternal nature of God
• End every prayer by giving glory to God rather than focusing only on our needs

Even when we have no words of our own, the Glory Be offers a perfect prayer of worship.

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Reflection

The Glory Be teaches us that the purpose of our lives is to glorify God.

Whether we are celebrating life's blessings or carrying heavy burdens, we can always proclaim:

"Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit."

In just a few lines, this ancient prayer summarizes the heart of Christian worship: all glory belongs to God—yesterday, today, and forever.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is it called the Glory Be?

It is commonly called the "Glory Be" because of its opening words in English. Its traditional Latin name is Gloria Patri, meaning "Glory to the Father."

Is the Glory Be a Bible prayer?

The exact wording is not found in one verse, but it is based on biblical themes of praising God and confessing faith in the Holy Trinity.

When should Catholics pray the Glory Be?

Anytime. It is commonly prayed during the Rosary, after psalms, during personal prayer, and whenever we wish to give praise to God.

Is the Glory Be required during the Rosary?

Yes. In the traditional Rosary, the Glory Be is prayed after every decade.

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Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, may every word, action, and thought of our lives bring glory to You. Help us to honor the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit with faithful hearts, joyful praise, and holy living. May we never cease to proclaim Your goodness now and forever. Amen.

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Related Prayers

You may also like:

• The Sign of the Cross
• The Apostles' Creed
• The Nicene Creed
• The Our Father (Lord's Prayer)
• The Hail Mary
• The Holy Rosary
• Fatima Prayer
• Divine Mercy Chaplet

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Suggested External References

• United States Conference of Catholic Bishops – Basic Prayers
• The Vatican – Catechism of the Catholic Church
• Catholic Answers – The Holy Trinity

Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel: Full Prayer, Meaning, History & Catholic Guide

 

Saint Michael the Archangel, Prince of the Heavenly Hosts, defend us in battle and protect us from the powers of evil.

A reverent Catholic illustration of Saint Michael the Archangel defeating Satan, representing spiritual warfare, divine protection, and the powerful prayer for God's defense against evil. This image accompanies the Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel and reflects the Catholic belief in angelic intercession under God's authority.

Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel: Full Prayer, Meaning, History, and When Catholics Pray It

Discover the Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel, its history, meaning, and how Catholics pray for protection against Satan and evil.

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Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel

The Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel is one of the most beloved prayers in the Catholic Church. It is a powerful prayer asking God's mighty archangel to defend us against the attacks of Satan and all evil spirits. Catholics around the world pray this prayer daily for spiritual protection, courage, and strength in times of temptation and spiritual warfare.

Saint Michael is known as the leader of God's heavenly army and the defender of God's people. Whenever we feel afraid, tempted, or in need of God's protection, we can confidently ask for his powerful intercession.

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The Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel

St. Michael the Archangel,

defend us in battle.

Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.

May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,

and do thou,

O Prince of the heavenly hosts,

by the power of God,

thrust into hell Satan,

and all the evil spirits,

who prowl about the world

seeking the ruin of souls.

Amen.

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Additional Prayer to Saint Michael

O glorious Prince, St. Michael,

chief and commander of the heavenly hosts,

guardian of souls,

vanquisher of rebel spirits,

servant in the house of the Divine King

and our admirable conductor,

you who shine with excellence

and superhuman virtue,

deliver us from all evil,

who turn to you with confidence,

and enable us by your gracious protection

to serve God more and more faithfully every day.

Amen.

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Who Is Saint Michael the Archangel?

Saint Michael is one of the three archangels named in Sacred Scripture, together with Gabriel and Raphael.

The name Michael means "Who is like God?"—a battle cry proclaiming that no one can equal the majesty and power of God.

Throughout the Bible, Saint Michael appears as:

• Defender of God's people
• Leader of the heavenly armies
• Warrior against Satan
• Protector of the faithful
• Champion of truth and justice

In the Book of Revelation, Saint Michael leads the heavenly angels in defeating Satan and casting him from heaven.

"Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon."
(Revelation 12:7)

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History of the Saint Michael Prayer

The shorter Prayer to Saint Michael was composed by Pope Leo XIII in 1886 after he reportedly experienced a frightening vision concerning attacks against the Church.

He directed that the prayer be recited after Low Mass throughout the Catholic world. Although this practice later became optional after the Second Vatican Council, many parishes and faithful Catholics continue to pray it, recognizing its importance in spiritual warfare.

In recent decades, several popes—including Saint John Paul II—have encouraged Catholics not to forget this powerful prayer.

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Why Do Catholics Pray to Saint Michael?

Catholics do not worship Saint Michael.

Instead, they ask for his intercession, just as Christians ask one another to pray for them.

Through God's power, Saint Michael helps protect us against:

• Spiritual temptation
• Attacks of the devil
• Fear and anxiety
• Evil influences
• Occasions of sin
• Spiritual discouragement

All protection ultimately comes from God, and Saint Michael serves as one of God's faithful heavenly protectors.

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When Should You Pray the Saint Michael Prayer?

Many Catholics pray this prayer:

• Every morning
• Before going to sleep
• After Holy Mass
• Before traveling
• During times of temptation
• Before making important decisions
• During spiritual struggles
• While praying the Rosary
• For protection of family members
• During times of fear or uncertainty

It is also commonly prayed during Eucharistic Adoration and other devotions.

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Lessons We Learn from Saint Michael

Saint Michael teaches us important spiritual virtues.

1. Be Faithful to God

Saint Michael remained loyal when Satan rebelled.

He reminds us to choose God every day.

2. Trust God's Power

Victory over evil belongs to God.

We should never rely only on ourselves but always seek God's grace.

3. Fight Spiritual Battles with Prayer

Our greatest weapon is not fear but prayer, faith, the sacraments, and obedience to God.

4. Remain Courageous

Saint Michael encourages us to remain steadfast, even when facing difficulties or temptations.

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Bible Verses About Saint Michael

Revelation 12:7–9

Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon was defeated and cast down.

Daniel 12:1

Michael is described as the great prince who protects God's people.

Jude 1:9

Saint Michael, in humility, calls upon the Lord's authority when confronting the devil.

These passages remind us that spiritual battles are real, but God is victorious.

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How to Live Under Saint Michael's Protection

Praying to Saint Michael should be accompanied by a faithful Christian life.

Seek God's protection by:

• Attending Holy Mass faithfully
• Receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation regularly
• Praying the Holy Rosary
• Reading Sacred Scripture
• Wearing blessed sacramentals, such as the Brown Scapular or Miraculous Medal, with faith and devotion
• Avoiding occasions of sin
• Practicing charity and forgiveness
• Trusting in God's mercy every day

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Final Reflection

The Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel reminds us that we are never alone in our spiritual journey. God lovingly provides His angels to watch over and protect His people.

Whenever temptation, fear, or spiritual trials arise, we can confidently ask Saint Michael to intercede for us, trusting that Christ has already won the ultimate victory over sin and death.

May Saint Michael inspire us to remain faithful, courageous, and steadfast in our love for God.

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Pray for us and protect us always. Amen.

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Related Catholic Prayers

You can also read:

• The Sign of the Cross
• The Apostles' Creed
• The Nicene Creed
• Prayer Against Evil Spirits
• Prayer for Protection Through the Precious Blood of Jesus
• Chaplet of Saint Gertrude
• Adoration Prayer
• Prayer for Peace of Mind

 If this article helped you grow in your faith, please share it with your family and friends. Explore more Catholic prayers and teachings here on Catholic Prayers & Inspirations.

References

For further reading and official Catholic teaching:

• Vatican – Catechism of the Catholic Church (Angels)
• USCCB Bible – Revelation 12
• USCCB Bible – Daniel 12
• USCCB Bible – Jude 1

• Catechism of the Catholic Church – Angels

  
  

MOST POWERFUL PRAYERS

Catholics 15 Most Powerful Prayers

Prayer may be the most powerful

force that we possess. Clement of

Alexandria said, "Prayer is keeping

company with God." By making

prayer a part of your daily life,

you will feel the divine presence

that holds the key to peace and love.

-

"And Satan trembles, when he sees

The weakest saint upon his knees."

~William Cowper

-

THE 15 MOST POWERFUL PRAYERS

-

(I)

The Lord's Prayer

Our Father who art in heaven,

Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done in earth,

as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom,

and the power, and the glory, for ever.

Amen.

Matthew 6:9-13

-

(II)

Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit,

that my thoughts may all be holy.

Act in me, O Holy Spirit,

that my work too may be holy

Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit,

that I love but what is holy

Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit,

to defend all that is holy

Guide me then, O Holy Spirit,

that I always may be holy.

Amen

Mother Teresa

-

(III)

The Psalm of David

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:

he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the

paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of

the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for

thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they

comfort me. Thou preparest a table before

me in the presence of mine enemies: thou

anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth

over. Surely goodness and mercy shall

follow me all the days of my life: and I

will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Psalm 23

-

(IV)

Prayer of Saint Benedict

O gracious and holy Father,

Give us wisdom to perceive you,

intelligence to understand you,

diligence to seek you,

patience to wait for you,

eyes to see you,

a heart to meditate on you,

and a life to proclaim you,

through the power of the spirit

of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Saint Benedict

-

(V)

Morning Prayer

Thank you for keeping me safe through

the night, please watch over me during

the day, and keep me safe from harm.

Give me strength, O Lord,

so that I may make the right choices,

be kind and good to others.

Please keep my family and friends safe,

throughout the day and into the night,

and please let me always know you are

always with me,

guiding me and loving me.

In Jesus Christ's name, I pray

Amen.

-

(VI)

Prayer of Saint Patrick

Christ with me, Christ before me,

Christ behind me, Christ in me,

Christ beneath me, Christ above me,

Christ on my right, Christ on my left,

Christ where I lie, Christ where I sit,

Christ where I arise,

Christ in the heart of everyone who

thinks of me, Christ in the mouth

of everyone who speaks of me,

Christ in every eye that sees me,

Christ in every ear that hears me.

Saint Patrick

-

(VII)

The Serenity Prayer

God grant me the serenity

To accept the things I cannot change;

Courage to change the things I can;

And wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time;

Enjoying one moment at a time;

Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;

Taking, as He did, this sinful world

As it is, not as I would have it;

Trusting that He will make all things right

If I surrender to His Will;

So that I may be reasonably happy in this life,

And supremely happy with Him

Forever and ever in the next.

Reinhold Niebuhr

-

(VIII)

Prayers of The Early Church

Bless all who worship thee,

from the rising of the sun,

unto the going down of the same.

Of thy goodness, give us;

with thy love, inspire us;

by thy spirit, guide us;

by thy power, protect us;

in thy mercy, receive us,

now and always.

5th-century prayer

-

(IX)

Saint francis' Prayer

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love,

Where there is injury, pardon,

Where there is doubt, faith,

Where there is despair, hope,

Where there is darkness, light,

Where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so

much seek to be consoled, as to console,

not so much to be understood, as to

understand, not so much to be loved, as

to love; for it is in giving that we receive,

it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

St. Francis of Assisi

-

(X)

Prayer of Trust

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills.

From whence cometh my help?

My help cometh from the Lord,

who made heaven and earth.

He will not suffer thy foot to be moved:

he that keepeth thee will not slumber.

Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall

neither slumber nor sleep.

The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy

shade upon thy right hand.

The sun shall not smite thee by day,

nor the moon by night.

The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil:

he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall

preserve thy going out and thy coming in

from this time forth, and even for evermore.

Psalm 121:1-8

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11)

Soul of Christ, sanctify me.

Body of Christ, heal me.

Blood of Christ, drench me.

Water from the side of Christ, wash me.

Passion of Christ, strengthen me.

Good Jesus, hear me.

In your wounds shelter me.

From turning away keep me.

From the evil one protect me.

At the hour of my death call me.

Into your presence lead me,

to praise you with all your saints

forever and ever. Amen.

Saint Ignatius of Loyola

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(XII)

Traditional Irish Blessing

May there always be work

for your hands to do.

May your purse always hold

a coin or two.

May the sun always shine

upon your windowpane.

May a rainbow be certain

to follow each rain.

May the hand of a friend

always be near to you, and

may God fill your heart

with gladness to cheer you.

Irish Prayer

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(XII)

Prayer of Blessing 

May the strength of God pilot me,

the power of God preserve me today.

May the wisdom of God instruct me,

the eye of God watch over me,

the ear of God hear me,

the word of God give me sweet talk,

the hand of God defend me,

and the way of God guide me.

Saint Patrick

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(XIV)

Prayer for All Times

I do not ask to walk smooth paths

Nor bear an easy load.

I pray for strength and fortitude

To climb the rock-strewn road.

Give me such courage I can scale

The hardest peaks alone,

And transform every stumbling block

Into a steppingstone.

Gail Brook Burkett

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(XV)

Prayer To The Holy Spirit

O Holy Spirit,

descend plentifully

into my heart.

Enlighten the dark

corners of this

neglected dwelling

and scatter your

cheerful beams.

St. Augustine of Hippo

THE OUR FATHER PRAYER

THE LORD'S PRAYER
(THE OUR FATHER)

The Lord's Prayer, also known as the Our Father, was composed by our Lord Jesus Christ Himself. This magnificent prayer beautifully reflects the wishes of its Divine Author. Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount (pictured above) where it first appears in the Gospels (Matt 6:9-13): “When praying do not choose many words” (Matthew 6:7).

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.

In the final line Jesus echoes His own petition to His Heavenly Father in John’s Gospel: “I am not praying that you would take them out of the world, but that you would preserve them from evil.” (John 17:15). Evil in the case refers both to the Evil One, Satan, and to the evils he brings about in this world. With the help of the Lord's Prayer we can better resist evil and prepare for Eternal Life with God in the world to come, in Heaven.