Litany of the Names of Jesus

The Litany of the Names of Jesus is a prayer that helps us call on Jesus by many of His names and titles. Each name shows us something different about who He is. Some remind us of His power. Others show His love, mercy, and closeness to us. Saying His names helps us draw near to Him in prayer.

This litany is written in a pattern that makes it easy to pray alone or with others. Each line speaks a name of Jesus, followed by a simple response. The responses change depending on what we are asking for. Sometimes we ask for mercy. Sometimes we ask to be saved. Other times we ask Him to lead us. This structure helps us focus and pray with attention.

The names of Jesus in this prayer come from Scripture and from the Church’s tradition. Some titles are familiar, like “Prince of Peace” or “Bread of Life.” Others are more poetic, like “Splendor of the Father” or “Sign and Contradiction.” These names give us a fuller picture of Jesus and remind us that He is always near.

This prayer can be used in many settings. It works well at the start of a holy hour, during a prayer group, or in personal prayer time. It helps us remember who Jesus is and how much He loves us. By calling on His names, we invite Him into our daily lives and ask Him to guide us each day.

Litanies are a very old form of prayer in the Church. The word “litany” means “prayer” or “petition.” Christians have prayed litanies for many centuries. Early Christians used this style of prayer in processions and during Mass. The people would repeat short responses as the leader called out different names or requests. This helped everyone join in and stay focused.

The Church has many litanies. Some are approved for public prayer, like the Litany of the Saints. Others are written for private devotion. Most litanies follow a pattern. A title or phrase is spoken, and the people give a short reply. The replies often ask for mercy, help, or peace. This rhythm makes it easy to follow, even for young children or those new to prayer.

The Litany of the Names of Jesus uses this same pattern. Each line speaks a name or title of Jesus. The response changes depending on what we ask. In the beginning, we ask for mercy. In the middle, we ask Jesus to save us. At the end, we ask Him to lead us or take away our sins. The changes in response help us pray with care and purpose.

This litany reminds us that the name of Jesus is holy. His many names show different parts of His mission. When we say this litany, we do more than speak words. We ask Jesus to be close to us, guide us, and help us. This old style of prayer still fits our needs today.

The Litany of the Names of Jesus helps young people learn who Jesus is. Each name shows something about His life, His mission, and His love for us. Names like “Bread of Life” and “Good Shepherd” point to Bible stories and teachings. When youth pray this litany, they can connect the names to what they’ve read in Scripture or heard in catechism class.

This prayer fits well with Catholic teaching. The Catechism says, “The name ‘Jesus’ signifies that the very name of God is present in the person of his Son” (CCC 432). When we say His name, we honor Him and call on Him. Teaching youth this litany helps them respect the holy name of Jesus and understand its meaning. It also shows that prayer is not just something we say, but something we live.

In youth ministry, this litany can be used during adoration, retreats, or regular meetings. It is short, simple, and easy to follow. Teens can each read a line or join in the responses. This helps them stay engaged and feel part of the prayer. It also invites them to reflect on which name stands out to them most and why.

Using the names of Jesus in prayer gives young people language for their faith. It gives them tools to speak to Jesus and to understand Him more deeply. Over time, they come to know not just facts about Him, but to grow in trust and love for Him.

Lord have mercy, … Lord have mercy.
Christ have mercy, … Christ have mercy.
Hear our prayer, … hear our prayer.

Jesus Christ, … hear our prayer
Beloved Son of God, … hear our prayer
The Great I Am, … hear our prayer
King of Kings, … hear our prayer
Bread of Life, … hear our prayer
Splendor of the Father, … hear our prayer

Lord of All, … have mercy on us
Son of the Living God, … have mercy on us
Sign and Contradiction, … have mercy on us
Beloved Teacher, … have mercy on us

Mighty Deliverer, … save your people
Emmanuel, … save your people
Light of the World, … save your people
Prince of Peace, … save your people
Holy Redeemer, … save your people
King of Glory, … save your people

Good Shepherd, … lead us to the Father
Alpha and Omega, … lead us to the Father
The Way, the Truth, and the Life, … lead us to the Father
Word Made Flesh, … lead us to the Father
Meek and Humble of Heart, … lead us to the Father
One True Light, … lead us to the Father

Lamb of God, … take away our sins.
Lamb of God, … grant us peace.
Hear our prayer, … hear our prayer.

More Catholic Prayers

The Litany of the Names of Jesus is just one of the many prayers you can find on our Catholic Prayers page. It’s a great place to explore new ways to pray and connect with Jesus and the saints.

If you’re looking for more litanies, traditional prayers, or something simple to start your day, take a look at the Catholic Prayers page. There’s something there for everyone—teens, parents, and ministry leaders too.

What is the Litany of the Names of Jesus?

The Litany of the Names of Jesus is a simple way to pray by calling on Jesus using many of His names. Each name tells us something true about who He is. It follows a pattern where we say a name and then give a short response.

Where do the names in the Litany of the Names of Jesus come from?

The names come from the Bible and Church tradition. Some are found in Scripture, like “Emmanuel” or “Light of the World.” Others are titles the Church has used for Jesus through the years.

How is the Litany of the Names of Jesus different from other litanies?

This litany focuses only on the names and titles of Jesus. Some litanies ask for help from saints or include more general prayers. The Litany of the Names of Jesus helps us focus on Jesus alone.

Can I pray the Litany of the Names of Jesus by myself?

Yes. It can be prayed alone or with a group. It works well for personal prayer, youth ministry, or during quiet times of reflection.

Why are the responses different in the Litany of the Names of Jesus?

The responses match what we are asking. Sometimes we ask for mercy. Sometimes we ask Jesus to save us or lead us. These changes help us think more about what we’re saying as we pray.

Is the Litany of the Names of Jesus approved by the Church?

This version is a personal devotion, not an official litany of the Church. But it follows the traditional style and uses names and ideas from Scripture and Church teaching. It can be a helpful part of prayer life.

How can I use the Litany of the Names of Jesus in a class or youth group?

You can pray it out loud with students or teens. Each person can take turns reading a line. Or one person can lead while the group says the responses. You can also invite youth to pick their favorite name and share what it means to them.

The Litany of the Names of Jesus helps us focus on who Jesus is. Each name in the prayer shows us something true about Him. We see Jesus as teacher, friend, leader, and Savior. Saying His names reminds us how close He is to us.

This litany follows an easy pattern. We say a name of Jesus, then give a short response. Some responses ask for mercy. Others ask Jesus to save us or lead us. This style of prayer is simple, but meaningful.

The names used in the prayer come from Scripture and Church tradition. Praying with them can help young people grow in their faith. It also connects with themes like trust, discipleship, and who Jesus is to us today.

This prayer works well in youth groups, retreats, and personal prayer. It invites us to speak directly to Jesus. It reminds us that He knows us and calls us by name.

Have you prayed the Litany of the Names of Jesus? Take a few quiet minutes and try it. Let the names speak to your heart. You may notice one that stands out more than the others. That’s worth thinking about.

We’d love to hear your thoughts. Which name spoke to you? How did it help you in prayer? Share your experience in the comments below and encourage others to do the same.