Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life
The Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life is a prayer that helps us remember who Jesus is. In the Gospel of John, Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” These words tell us that He is the path to follow, the truth to believe, and the life that gives us hope. This prayer takes those words and helps us think about what they mean for our lives.
When we pray this litany, we reflect on how Jesus guides us. He shows us the way to the Father. He teaches us what is true. He gives us life that never ends. The repeated phrases in the prayer remind us to keep our eyes on Him in every part of our journey.
A litany is a simple form of prayer where a leader says a line, and the people respond with the same short phrase each time. This rhythm makes it easy to join in and remember the words. It also brings people together in prayer, whether in church or at home.
Praying the Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life can be a time of trust and peace. It gives us a chance to slow down and think about how Jesus is present in our daily lives. By repeating the words, we place ourselves in His care and ask Him to guide us always.
Walking in an Ancient Pattern
Walking in an Ancient Pattern
The Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life follows a pattern that has been used in Christian prayer for many centuries. Litanies have been part of the Church’s prayer life since the early days. They were often used during processions, times of need, or special feast days. The style is simple. A leader prays a short statement or petition, and the people respond with the same phrase each time.
This litany takes its inspiration from the words of Jesus in John 14:6. Christians through the years have reflected on these words, seeing in them a guide for faith and daily living. By shaping these ideas into a litany, the prayer becomes something that is easy to remember and join in, whether alone or with others.
The format is straightforward. It begins with a short opening prayer, then moves into three sections. Each section focuses on one part of Jesus’ title: the Way, the Truth, and the Life. In each section, the leader names an image or role of Jesus, and the people answer with the matching phrase.
This repeated pattern helps the prayer sink into our minds and hearts. It keeps the focus on Jesus while allowing the whole group to take part. Over time, these words can become a steady reminder of who He is and how He leads us.
Following Jesus in Faith and Life
The Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life is rooted in Scripture. It comes from Jesus’ own words in John 14:6. Each part of the prayer connects to important themes in the Bible. Calling Jesus “the Way” reminds us of the path of discipleship. Naming Him “the Truth” points to His teachings and the Gospel message. Saying He is “the Life” reminds us that He gives us eternal life through His death and resurrection.
This litany also connects to Catholic catechesis. It helps teach that faith is not only about knowing truths, but also about following a person—Jesus Christ. The Catechism says, “The way of Christ leads to life; a contrary way leads to destruction” (CCC 1696). This prayer brings that teaching to life in a simple, repeated pattern.
In youth ministry, the litany can help young people connect Scripture to their own lives. It is easy to learn and can be used in small groups, retreats, or before service projects. The images and titles of Jesus can open conversations about His role as guide, teacher, and Savior.
By praying together, youth can see that following Jesus is a daily choice. They can remember that He walks with them in their studies, friendships, and challenges. The litany gives them words to call on Him in both joy and difficulty.
Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life
Lord Jesus, you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Hear our prayers as we lift our hearts to you. …. Hear our prayers.
You are the light that guides us through the darkness … Jesus, you are the way.
You are the shepherd who leads us to green pastures … Jesus, you are the way.
You are the one who leads us to the Father … Jesus, you are the way.
You are the narrow gate … Jesus, you are the way.
You show us the way of humility … Jesus, you are the way.
You guide us with your gentle hand … Jesus, you are the way.
You show us the way to eternal life … Jesus, you are the way.
You are the Word made flesh … Jesus, you are the truth.
You are the true vine … Jesus, you are the truth.
You are the Good News … Jesus, you are the truth.
You came to bear witness to the truth … Jesus, you are the truth.
You are the way of reconciliation and forgiveness … Jesus, you are the truth.
You are the source of wisdom and knowledge … Jesus, you are the truth.
You are justice and mercy … Jesus, you are the truth.
You are the giver of every good gift … Jesus, you are the life.
You are the bread of life that satisfies our hunger … Jesus, you are the life.
You are the living water that quenches our thirst … Jesus, you are the life.
You are the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world … Jesus, you are the life.
You are the light of the world … Jesus, you are the life.
You are the alpha and omega … Jesus, you are the life.
You are the resurrection and the life … Jesus, you are the life.
Lord Jesus, you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Help us to follow you faithfully … Amen.
More Resources
More Catholic Prayers
If you enjoyed the Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life, you can explore many more prayers on our Catholic Prayers page. There you will find litanies, traditional prayers, and simple prayers for daily life. These can be used at home, in small groups, or in parish settings.
Our Catholic Prayers page is a helpful place to find words that draw you closer to Jesus. Whether you want a short prayer for a busy day or a longer devotion for quiet time, you will find many options. Visit and discover new prayers to guide your faith journey.
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Light for the Journey
This lighthouse image is a beautiful reminder that Christ is our guiding light, leading us safely through life’s waters. It pairs perfectly with the Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life or any reflection on Jesus as our guide.
Download it for use in your parish bulletin, newsletter, or other ministry materials. Share this image to inspire others to follow the light of Christ in every season of life.
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Questions and Answers about the Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life
What is the Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life?
The Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life is a prayer that repeats the words of Jesus from John 14:6. It is made up of short lines said by a leader, with the same response said by the group. It helps us remember that Jesus is our guide, our teacher, and the source of our life.
Where did the idea for this litany come from?
It comes from the Bible, where Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Christians have prayed in litany form for many centuries. This version uses different names and images for Jesus to help us think about His role in our lives.
How do you pray the Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life?
One person reads each line, and everyone answers with the same short phrase. The prayer is divided into three parts. Each part focuses on one of the titles—Way, Truth, or Life. It can be prayed alone or with others.
Can this litany be used in youth ministry?
Yes. The Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life works well in youth groups, retreats, and classrooms. It is simple to follow and easy to learn. The short, repeated responses help everyone take part, even if they are new to the prayer.
Why is this litany helpful for faith growth?
It keeps our focus on Jesus and His words. The repeated lines help us remember that He leads us, teaches us, and gives us life. Over time, these words can become part of our daily prayer.
Walking with Jesus Every Day
The Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life is a prayer based on Jesus’ words in John 14:6. It reminds us that He is our guide, our teacher, and the one who gives us life. The prayer uses short statements and simple responses, making it easy to pray alone or with others.
This litany is arranged in three parts. Each part focuses on one of Jesus’ titles. The first section reminds us that He is the Way, leading us to the Father. The second points to Jesus as the Truth, who teaches and guides us. The third calls Him the Life, who gives us eternal hope.
The format is call-and-response. A leader reads each line, and the group answers with the same phrase. This pattern helps the prayer stay in our minds and hearts.
It is a simple yet meaningful way to remember who Jesus is. It can be used in youth ministry, retreats, classrooms, or personal prayer.
Your Turn
Have you prayed the Litany of the Way, the Truth, and the Life? We would love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts in the comment section below. Your reflections can inspire others to try this prayer for themselves.
Tell us when and how you prayed it. Did you use it with a group, in your family, or by yourself? Your stories can help others see how this prayer might fit into their own faith journey.
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