Asked to Pray Grace this Thanksgiving? Five Prayers to Consider

(Photo: Lightstock)

It's that time of year again, and you might be prepared to be put on the spot another year in a row.

"You're Catholic, right? Why don't you pray before dinner?"

"You go to Mass all the time, right? You pray!"

But what do we even begin to say??

Do we do the simple "Bless us, O Lord..." and head to the culinary races?

Or do we seize the opportunity of spiritual openness and give a little more?

No matter where your family is spiritually, those moments before the first cut of turkey, the first clatter of dinner plates and the first slice of pie might produce some nervousness in those of us asked to lead grace.

Here are five short, simple prayers to consider as you prepare to pray this Thanksgiving. Feel free to adapt them to your own words, or pray them as they are!

1. A Simple Family Blessing

Perfect for families with children

Loving Father, we thank you for this day of gratitude and joy. Bless the food before us, the hands that prepared it and the family and friends who share it. May our hearts be filled with thanksgiving for your endless goodness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

2. Prayer of Gratitude from the Psalms

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his mercy endures forever.” (Psalm 118:1) Lord, you are the giver of every good gift. As we share this meal, fill our hearts with joy for the blessings you have given us: family, faith and the beauty of creation. May this food strengthen us to serve you and one another with love. Amen.

3. Blessing from the Book of Blessings

(Adapted from the Catholic Church’s official prayer)

Lord God, on this day, we remember that all we have comes from You. Bless this food and those who prepared it; May those who eat it be nourished in body and spirit. Grant that we who gather at this table may always be mindful of the poor and hungry. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

4. A Prayer for Gratitude and Generosity

Creator of all, you fill the earth with abundance and our hearts with thanksgiving. As we enjoy this meal, help us to recognize your presence in every blessing and every person around this table. May our gratitude overflow into acts of love for those in need. We ask this through Christ, the Bread of Life. Amen.

5. A Thanksgiving Grace Connected to the Eucharist

Heavenly Father, you have given us your Son, the true Bread from Heaven. As we share this earthly meal, we give you thanks for the gift of the Eucharist, the great act of thanksgiving that nourishes our souls. Bless this food and those who share it, and make our hearts ever grateful. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.