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Prayers for Meals

Benedictio Mensæ

(Before Eating)


Bless us, O Lord, and these Thy gifts which we are about to receive from Thy bounty, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Benedic, Domine, nos et hæc tua dona quæ de tua largitate sumus sumpturi per Christum Dominum Nostrum. Amen.

(After Eating)


We give Thee thanks, almighty God, for all Thy benefits,  who liveth and reigneth world without end. Amen. And may the souls of the faithfull departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Agimus tibi gratias, omnipotens Deus, pro universis beneficiis tuis, qui vivis et regnas in sæcula sæculorum. Amen. Fidelium animæ per misericordiam Dei requiescant in pace. Amen.

May. 15, 2015

e.d.m. 16.05.2016 16:51

I am obliged to eat with persons who do not pray. When at a table that does not pray, is it sin if I do not pray? I try to pray surreptitiously. Thank you. edm.

Editor of TCW 16.05.2016 17:42

I am of the understanding we should always pray before & after meals. And would suggest in your situation, if necessary, to make a sign of the cross (by yourself) a few minutes before you eat, and then mentally (silently) say grace right before you eat.