Act of Love
The Act of Love prayer is a short and beautiful way to turn our hearts toward God. It is sometimes called the Act of Charity. It reminds us of what love truly means in our faith. When we pray these words, we are saying that we love God first, more than anything else. We are also saying that we love the people around us, even when it’s hard.
This prayer is based on the two greatest commandments Jesus gave us: love God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself. These are not just rules. They are a way of life. The Act of Love helps us to remember these commands and live them each day.
The words of this prayer also call us to forgive. Forgiveness is not always easy. But it is part of love. Jesus forgave those who hurt Him. When we forgive others, we follow His example. And when we ask for forgiveness, we show that we want to make things right.
Many people pray this in the morning or before bed. It’s simple, but full of meaning. It helps us stay close to God. It also reminds us to treat others with kindness and mercy. The Act of Love is a good prayer for children, teens, and adults alike. Anyone can pray it. Everyone can grow from it.
A Simple Prayer with a Long History
The Act of Love prayer has been used by Catholics for many generations. It is part of a group of prayers called Acts. These include the Act of Faith, Act of Hope, and Act of Contrition. Each one focuses on a different part of our relationship with God. The Act of Love is about choosing to love God and others every day.
This prayer is not found in the Bible word for word. But its message comes from the teachings of Jesus. When someone asked Jesus which commandment was the greatest, He said to love God and to love your neighbor. The Church has used this teaching as the base for this prayer.
The format of the prayer is very simple. It begins with a statement of love for God. Then it includes love for our neighbor. It ends with a call to forgive and be forgiven. These three parts help us grow in love each time we pray it.
You can find this prayer in many Catholic prayer books and catechisms. It is often taught to children preparing for First Communion. But adults use it too. It is a helpful way to reflect on how we live out our faith.
Love Like Jesus Taught
The Act of Love prayer fits well with many Bible themes. It reflects what Jesus said in Matthew 22:37–39. He told us to love God with all our heart and to love our neighbor as ourselves. These are the two greatest commandments. The prayer helps us live these words, not just read them.
This prayer also ties into Catholic teaching. The Catechism says, “Charity is the theological virtue by which we love God above all things for his own sake, and our neighbor as ourselves for the love of God.” (CCC 1822). Charity means love. It is the kind of love that puts others first and seeks the good of all. When we pray the Act of Love, we are asking God to help us grow in this kind of love.
In youth ministry, this prayer is helpful because it speaks to what young people are learning. It connects faith with real-life actions. It shows that love is not just a feeling. It is a choice. It means forgiving others, being kind, and turning to God each day.
Leaders can use this prayer during lessons about the commandments, forgiveness, or prayer. It is easy to memorize. Teens and children can use it in small groups or on retreats. It encourages them to reflect on their own lives and how they love God and others.
Act of Love Prayer
O my God, I love you above all things,
with my whole heart and soul,
because you are all good and worthy of all my love.
I love my neighbor as myself for the love of you.
I forgive all who have injured me
and I ask pardon of all whom I have injured.
Amen.
More Resources
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More Catholic Prayers
The Act of Love prayer is just one of many beautiful prayers you can use to grow closer to God. If you are looking for more prayers for different times and needs, we invite you to visit our Catholic Prayers page.
There you will find traditional prayers, short daily prayers, and prayers for special moments. Whether you are praying alone or with others, you can find something that fits your needs. Take a look and find a prayer that speaks to you today.
Questions and Answers about the Act of Love Prayer
What is the Act of Love prayer?
The Act of Love prayer is a short Catholic prayer. It helps us tell God that we love Him. It also reminds us to love others and to forgive. It is often used in daily prayer.
Who should pray the Act of Love prayer?
Anyone can pray the Act of Love prayer. It is good for children, teens, and adults. It is easy to learn and can be said anytime.
When should I say the Act of Love prayer?
You can pray it in the morning, before bed, or any time during the day. Many people say it during personal prayer time. It is also good before receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Why is the Act of Love prayer important?
The Act of Love prayer reminds us of the two greatest commandments—love of God and love of neighbor. It helps us stay focused on what matters most in our faith.
Is the Act of Love prayer in the Bible?
No, the Act of Love prayer is not a Bible verse. But it is based on Bible teachings, especially from the Gospels. It reflects what Jesus said about love.
Can I teach the Act of Love prayer to children?
Yes. The Act of Love prayer is very good for children. It is simple and easy to remember. It also helps children learn about loving God and others.
Is the Act of Love prayer used during Mass?
The Act of Love prayer is not usually said during Mass. But it can be part of personal prayer or a group prayer service.
What does the Act of Love prayer teach me about forgiveness?
The Act of Love prayer teaches that love includes forgiveness. It helps us forgive others and ask for forgiveness when we hurt someone. It follows Jesus’ example.
Loving God and Neighbor
The Act of Love prayer is a short and meaningful way to express love for God and others. It reminds us that loving God is more important than anything else. The prayer also calls us to love the people around us and to forgive. It is simple but powerful in shaping how we live our faith.
This prayer comes from Jesus’ own words in the Gospels. He told us to love God with all our heart and to love our neighbor as ourselves. The Act of Love prayer puts that teaching into words we can say every day. It helps us turn love into action.
The prayer also includes a part about forgiveness. It reminds us to forgive those who have hurt us and to ask forgiveness from those we have hurt. This helps us grow in peace and kindness. It teaches us to let go of anger and to seek healing.
In youth ministry, the Act of Love prayer fits well with themes like mercy, forgiveness, and Christian service. It helps young people think about how they treat others. It also encourages them to be honest with themselves and with God. This prayer is a helpful tool for building a life rooted in love.
Your Turn
Have you prayed the Act of Love prayer before? How has it helped you love God and others more deeply? Has it reminded you to forgive someone or to ask for forgiveness?
We would love to hear your experience. Share your thoughts in the comment section below. Your story might help someone else grow in love and faith too.
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