Litany
It is too easy to say that a litany is a series of petitions punctuated by a repetitive response. That is certainly what it looks and sounds like. Yet with a prayer as transformative as Litany, we have to delve a little deeper to do it justice.
It is a meditation, a plea, a cry for help or mercy, an adoration, a devotion. You can participate in a litany as a community or use it privately. This form of prayer can be challenging, but can also be deeply rewarding. The only way to really understand litany is by experiencing it for yourself.
Please click on the links below to be taken to a small number of guides to popular litanies that have been approved by the Church. A link to printable PDFs of all of these litanies can be found at the bottom of the page.
Litany of Humility
This is a terrific prayer for this modern world of selfies and competitive posting on social media. With the help of the Franciscan Friars of Renewal who collaborate with Ascension Press, click on the heading to be guided through this powerful prayer. You may find it confronting, but it will do you the world of good.
Litany of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
This is a special Catholic prayer about the love and protection offered to us by The Sacred Heart of Jesus. Please click on the heading to be guided by the Franciscan Friars and Ascension Press for guidance through the prayer.
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
This is a litany all about our Mother Mary. It takes us through her many titles, and her multifaceted role in our lives and in the Church. Throughout this litany, we ask Mary to pray for us.
Litany of Saint Joseph
Saint Joseph, an important member of the Holy family, is also a very special figure in the Church. He is a protector and we think of him as kind and patient to anyone who needs his strength. He took on a heavy responsibility and we are very grateful to him. Again, click on the Heading for a guide to the litany.
Litany of Trust
The final litany we have included is a very special prayer that was written by the Sisters of Life and features on the Ascension Press Youtube channel. It is lovely. As His children, we can trust that Jesus is caring for us, even when that isn't apparent to us. Please click on the heading to be guided through the prayer by the Sisters of Life.
For printable PDFs of all of these litanies, please click here.
Source: More about Prayer
More about Prayer