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Family Litany of the Saints
The Litany of the Saints is one of the oldest prayers in continuous use in the Catholic Church. It is traditionally recited on All Saints’ Day, but it is an excellent prayer to say anytime. All Saints’ Day celebrates those brothers and sisters who have gone before us in death and whose lives have helped model the faith.
Create your own family litany by including names of family members and friends who lived holy, happy lives and are now at rest with Christ. At dinner this month, remember that we are all part of the Communion of Saints.
Thank you, God,
for family and friends.
We remember our loved ones
who have died and pray they
are at peace in your loving arms.
(say names), pray for us!
Amen.
Prayer Service:
A few weeks before the prayer service, ask students to bring in a picture of a family member who has died. Mark the students’ first and last name and teacher on the back so the photo can be returned after the prayer service. Appoint five readers for the prayer service and supply them with readings and prayers in advance. Begin the service with a song of your choice.
OPENING PRAYER ALL: In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
LEADER: Lord, we thank you for gathering us here today on this feast of All Souls’ Day. We ask you to be with us as we remember all of those who have died, especially those in our own families. Amen.
READING READER 1: Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. Where (I) am going you know the way.” (John 14:1) The Gospel of the Lord. ALL: Praise to You Lord Jesus Christ.
Optional: Leader may make remarks at this time.
PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL
READER 2: For all of us gathered here, that we may live our lives close to God and meet him in Heaven. For this we pray, ALL: Lord, hear our prayer.
READER 3: For the deceased, especially those members of our family and parish community, that they may enjoy paradise in Heaven with Jesus. For this we pray, ALL: Lord, hear our prayer.
READER 4: For those grieving the loss of a family member, that they may feel God’s love and comfort at this difficult time. For this we pray, ALL: Lord, hear our prayer.
READER 5: For those who care for the dying, especially nurses, doctors, family members, and hospice workers, that God may work through them to touch others. For this we pray, ALL: Lord, hear our prayer.
PROCESSION WITH PICTURES During this time, invite students to process forward quietly and place the picture of their loved one in the basket on the altar. Remind them to say a quiet prayer in their heart for the person who has died. Students should then return to their seats. After all students have processed forward, you may end with a closing song of your choice or dismiss students from here.
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