Family prayer begins at the table

The family table can be the first altar of the home. One minute of prayer before meals changes the atmosphere of the house.

The Church calls the family the domestic church: it is at home that we learn to pray, to forgive and to share. And few places bring the family together like the table.

The disciples of Emmaus recognized Jesus in the breaking of the bread (Lk 24:30-31). The first Christians broke bread in their homes and ate their meals with gladness and simplicity of heart (Acts 2:46). Their faith did not stay in the temple: it came into the kitchen, into the conversation, onto the plate being served.

To pray before eating is to remember, every day, that our bread comes from the hands of God and from the work of someone we love. It is also the moment to place before the Lord those who are sick, those who are far away and those who are going through hard times.

Start simply: a short prayer, always the same, prayed by everyone. Then each person says an intention. Children learn by praying together, not by listening to sermons. When someone is missing, pray for them at the table. Jesus promised that where two or three are gathered in his name, he is there among them (Mt 18:20).

To pray as a family

Bless, O Lord, this table, those who prepared this food and all who are here. Give bread to those who are hungry, and hunger for You to those who have bread. Holy Face of Jesus, watch over this family. Amen.