Three short graces for the table
The oldest Christian practice at the table is a short, spoken thanks. Choose one of the three graces below. Say it aloud. Then eat. When a young member of the household is old enough, let the child pray the grace — they will remember it their whole life.
Grace 1 · The traditional
Bless us, O Lord
The oldest household grace in the Christian West, prayed at kitchen tables for a thousand years and still fitting today.
“Bless us, O Lord, and these thy gifts, which we are about to receive from thy bounty; through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
Traditional household grace
Grace 2 · Psalm-anchored
Thou openest thine hand
A grace built on the psalmist's own words — a good grace to say at the household's Sunday dinner, when the table is full.
“The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing.”
Psalm 145:15–16 · KJV“For this bread, and for every mercy, we give thee thanks, O Lord. Amen.”
Closing line
Grace 3 · Child-friendly
Thank you, God
A short grace for the household's youngest member to lead. Two lines, easy to remember, honest.
“Thank you, God, for the food we eat. Thank you, God, for everyone here. Amen.”
A child's grace
Two short KJV readings at the table
On a Sunday or a feast day, before the plates are lifted, read one of the following aloud. It sets the meal in its place: a mercy at the household's table.
Reading 1
Taste and see
“O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.”
Psalm 34:8 · KJV
Reading 2
Whether therefore ye eat
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
1 Corinthians 10:31 · KJV
When guests are with us
When guests are at the table — a neighbour, a stranger, a family member returning home — the grace is the same, but we name what the meal has become. A short line before the traditional grace does it. The household has always had room.
- Before the grace. “Lord, we thank thee for the company at our table tonight; may this meal be a blessing to all who share it.”
- Then the traditional grace. “Bless us, O Lord, and these thy gifts…” — as above.
Continue Your Journey
Where else this page opens into the household library.