Litany of Humility
WHY PRAY
WHY PRAY THE LITANY OF HUMILITY
Humility a Christian virtue recognizing our dependence on God, valuing others above ourselves, and adopting a modest, selfless attitude.
Humility is more than modesty or lack of arrogance; it is a heart attitude that acknowledges our fallen nature and complete dependence on God. True humility involves seeing ourselves realistically, recognizing our sinfulness, and trusting in God’s wisdom and salvation (Psalm 25:9)
It is closely linked with meekness and lowliness of mind, emphasizing a willingness to submit to God’s will and serve others selflessly (Colossians 3:12).
Jesus Christ is the ultimate model of humility. Though divine, He “emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant” and became obedient to death on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8).
James 4:10 instructs believers to “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you,” highlighting that humility precedes God’s blessing.
Matthew 5:3 teaches that the “poor in spirit” are blessed, showing that acknowledging spiritual need is central to humility.
Proverbs 22:4 and other passages link humility with wisdom, honor, and life, contrasting it with pride, which leads to disgrace.
Serving others and valuing their needs above our own (Philippians 2:3).
Submitting to God and His authority, trusting His guidance in all matters.
Rejecting pride and self-exaltation, which separate us from God and hinder spiritual growth.
Living in gratitude, recognizing that all blessings and salvation come from God, not by our personal merit.
Humility is essential for entering and thriving in God’s kingdom. It is not self-deprecation but a realistic assessment of oneself in light of God’s greatness, requiring courage to submit to God and serve others.
By following Christ’s example, we cultivate humility as a reflection of devotion to God and love for others, receiving grace and honor in return (1 Peter 5:5; Matthew 18:4)
The Litany of Humility is not officially authorized by the Catholic Church. Only six litanies officially approved for public worship
However, in practice you can pray it privately or in informal group settings, such as during personal or family reflection.
SYMBOLS
[℣] Leader [℟] Response [Ⱥ] All together
SIGN OF THE CROSS
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
- Lord Jesus. Meek and humble of heart, [℟] hear me.
● ● ●
[℟] = deliver me, Jesus.
- From the desire of being esteemed, [℟]
- From the desire of being loved, [℟]
- From the desire of being extolled, [℟]
- From the desire of being honored, [℟]
- From the desire of being praised, [℟]
- From the desire of being preferred to others, [℟]
- From the desire of being consulted, [℟]
- From the desire of being approved, [℟]
- From the fear of being humiliated, [℟]
- From the fear of being despised, [℟]
- From the fear of suffering rebukes, [℟]
- From the fear of being calumniated, [℟]
- From the fear of being forgotten, [℟]
- From the fear of being ridiculed, [℟]
- From the fear of being wronged, [℟]
- From the fear of being suspected, [℟]
● ● ●
[℟] = Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.
- That others may be loved more than I, [℟]
- That others may be esteemed more than I, [℟]
- That, in the opinion of the world, others may increase, and I may decrease, [℟]
- That others may be chosen, and I set aside, [℟]
- That others may be praised and I unnoticed, [℟]
- That others may be preferred to me in everything, [℟]
- That others may become holier than I, provided that I may become as holy as I should, [℟]
[℣] Let us pray.
[Ⱥ] God, I am far too often influenced by what others think of me. I am always pretending to be either richer, smarter, or nicer than I really am. Please prevent me from trying to attract attention. Don’t let me gloat over praise on one hand or be discouraged by criticism on the other. Nor let me waste time weaving imaginary situations in which the most heroic, charming, witty person present is myself. Show me how to be humble of heart, like you. Amen.
[℣] May the divine assistance remain always with us, [℟] and may the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
SIGN OF THE CROSS
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.