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One of the most popular prayers in the English-speaking world is known as “The Kitchen Prayer.” It was composed by Klara Munkres, a retired school teacher from Savannah, Missouri, and reflects a profound understanding of the “universal call to holiness.”
This call was renewed at the Second Vatican Council and centers on the reality that we are all called to become saints in the ordinariness of our lives. It doesn’t matter if we aren’t a priest or religious, we can still become a saint and offer a beautiful sacrifice to God.
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The kitchen in particular can be a great place to offer our lives to God, giving him the service we are doing for others. Washing the dishes may not seem very glamorous, but united to God, it can pave the way to holiness.
Here is Munkres’ prayer, seen in many kitchens throughout the English-speaking world.
Lord of all pots and pans and thingsSince I’ve not time to beA saint by doing lovely things orWatching late with TheeOr dreaming in the dawn light orStorming Heaven’s gatesMake me a saint by getting meals andWashing up the plates.Although I must have Martha’s hands,I have a Mary mindAnd when I black the boots and shoes,Thy sandals Lord I find.I think of how they trod the earth,What time I scrub the floorAccept this meditation Lord,I haven’t time for more.Warm all the kitchen with Thy love,And light it with Thy peaceForgive me all my worrying and makeMy grumbling cease.Thou who didst love to give men food,In room or by the seaAccept this service that I do,I do it unto Thee.
Looking for more prayers? Check out our page of “Prayers for a Particular Need.”
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And today we celebrate...