Catholic Devotions

Litanies

Litanies are ancient prayers consisting of a series of invocations followed by a response. These beautiful repetitive prayers help us meditate on the attributes of God, Mary, or the saints.

Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Litany of Loreto

The most popular Marian litany, approved by Pope Sixtus V in 1587

May, October, Marian feastsPray this litany

Litany of the Sacred Heart

Approved by Pope Leo XIII

Honoring the love of Christ symbolized by His Sacred Heart

First Fridays, June (Month of Sacred Heart)Pray this litany

Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus

Approved by Pope Leo XIII

Invoking the powerful name of Our Lord

January, any time of needPray this litany

Litany of the Saints

Ancient prayer of the Church

Calling upon the intercession of the saints in heaven

Easter Vigil, Ordinations, Rogation DaysPray this litany

Litany of St. Joseph

Approved by Pope St. Pius X

Honoring the foster father of Jesus and spouse of Mary

March, Wednesdays, for workers and familiesPray this litany

What Are Litanies?

The word "litany" comes from the Greek word meaning "prayer" or "supplication." Litanies are among the oldest forms of Christian prayer, dating back to the earliest centuries of the Church.

Each litany consists of a series of invocations or petitions, each followed by a response such as "Pray for us" or "Have mercy on us." This call-and-response format makes litanies ideal for communal prayer, though they can also be prayed alone.

The Church has approved several litanies for public use, and they are often prayed during Benediction, processions, and other liturgical celebrations. The repetitive nature of litanies helps focus the mind and heart on the attributes being invoked.