Begin with the prayer
The Our Father is the prayer Jesus himself gave his disciples. It teaches us what to ask for, what to desire, and how to stand before God as children.
If you only know one Christian prayer, this is the one to learn slowly.
Prayer text
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.
How to pray with this guide
- What does this prayer teach? The Our Father teaches desire: God’s name, kingdom, will, daily bread, forgiveness, mercy, and deliverance.
- How can I pray it? Pray one petition each day instead of rushing through the whole prayer.
- What can I try this week? Choose the hardest petition for you and write why it is hard.
Why Catholics pray Our Father
Jesus himself teaches it as the pattern of Christian prayer. It trains desire: God’s name, kingdom, will, daily bread, forgiveness, mercy, and deliverance.
The prayer in plain language
We begin with God as Father, not a distant force. We ask that his name be honoured, his kingdom come, and his will be done. Then we ask for daily bread, forgiveness, mercy toward others, protection from temptation, and deliverance from evil.
How Catholics use it
The Our Father is prayed at Mass, in the Rosary, in the Liturgy of the Hours, before sleep, with families, and in private prayer. It belongs everywhere because it came from Jesus.
One line at a time
If the whole prayer feels too familiar, choose one line. ‘Thy will be done’ can become surrender. ‘Give us this day’ can become trust. ‘Forgive us’ can become mercy received and mercy given.
Open the Scripture
Let the Scripture reference tune the prayer. Notice one word or scene that changes how you speak to God.
Catechism to consult
The Catechism reference helps show where this prayer sits inside Catholic life, worship, doctrine, and spiritual formation.
Try it this week
Choose one petition today. Write what it asks of God and what it asks of you.
Deeper resources and next steps
- Read Matthew 6:5-13 and notice how Jesus teaches prayer without show.
- Read How To Begin Prayer if you are building a daily habit.
- Use the Our Father at the end of family prayer or before a difficult conversation.
For families, children, and conversation
Teach one line at a time. At a meal, begin with ‘Give us this day our daily bread’ and thank God for ordinary provision.
A short prayer
Father, teach me to pray as Jesus teaches. Let your name, kingdom, will, mercy, and protection shape my heart. Amen.
#jesus #daily-prayer