Grace before meals
Grace before meals ("Benedic, Domine") is one of the oldest prayers of Christian home life.
Also known as: Mealtime prayer · Blessing of the table · Bless us, O Lord
which we are about to receive from thy bounty,
through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Give bread, Lord, to those who hunger,
and hunger for you to those who have bread.
When to pray
Before each meal, as a family.
Origin
The practice of praying before meals is an ancient Christian tradition, rooted in Jewish custom. The common English form, "Bless us, O Lord, and these thy gifts...", is a traditional adaptation of a meal blessing. This prayer is a popular devotion in Catholic homes, fostering gratitude for sustenance and an awareness of divine providence. It is not part of the official liturgy but a cherished family custom.
In other languages
Oração antes das refeições (Português) · Bendición de la mesa (Español) · Preghiera prima dei pasti (Italiano) · Modlitwa przed posiłkiem (Polski) · Pagbasbas Bago Kumain (Tagalog)