Introduction to Litanies
Discover the ancient tradition of litany prayer. Learn what litanies are, their history in the Church, and how to pray them as part of your devotional life.
Introduction
UnderstandingLitanies
The litany is one of the oldest forms of Christian prayer, dating back to the earliest centuries of the Church. In this responsive prayer form, a leader offers a series of invocations or petitions, and the congregation responds with a fixed phrase such as "pray for us" or "have mercy on us".
This section provides an introduction to litany prayer - its origins, its place in Catholic tradition, and practical guidance on how to incorporate litanies into your personal and communal prayer life.
Whether you are new to litanies or seeking to deepen your understanding of this beautiful prayer form, we invite you to explore the riches of this ancient tradition.
At a Glance
History and Origins
Learn about the development of litanies from the early Church to the present day.
How to Pray
Practical guidance on praying litanies alone or in community.
Approved Litanies
Discover the litanies approved by the Church for public and private devotion.
“Lord, teach us to pray.”
L1
Luke 11:1
Sacred Scripture
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