Looking for family prayer points for fasting seasons? You’re not alone. We started focusing on family prayer when we realized our kids were learning how to act in church but hadn’t yet developed their own connection with the Lord Jesus. We wanted more than just habits—we wanted them to experience prayer as a way of talking to God.
It wasn’t easy at first. Life is busy, and getting everyone to pause and pray felt like one more thing on the list. But during a fasting season, we decided to start small. We set up a simple prayer corner, introduced short prayers they could understand, and began making family prayer a part of our day. It’s still a work in progress, but those first steps gave us a place to begin.
🙏 Why Family Prayer is Essential
Fasting, for us as adults, is a time to step back from the noise of daily life and intentionally reconnect with God. It’s a season to reflect, to pray, and to realign our hearts with His will. But fasting isn’t just about our own spiritual journey—it’s also a precious opportunity to share our faith with our kids and teach them what it means to have a relationship with the Lord Jesus.
During fasting seasons, we can help our children begin to understand the beauty of prayer and the warmth of God’s presence. These moments provide so many learning opportunities—praying together at the prayer corner, saying grace at the table, or having bedtime conversations about God and His love. It’s about making room for small, meaningful practices that help kids see prayer not as a task but as a way of connecting with someone who cares deeply for them.
I remember the first time I truly felt that connection. As a child, I was terrified one night after seeing something scary. I couldn’t sleep, and my fear felt overwhelming. My mother-in-law sat beside me and told me about Jesus, the Son of God. She gave me a crucifix to wear and reassured me that He would protect me. That night, I prayed for the first time, imagining a golden halo of light surrounding me, and for the first time, I felt safe.
Fasting seasons give us these same opportunities to guide our children toward God. They’re a chance to create moments where they can begin to see His love and protection for themselves, building a foundation of faith that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.
🕊️ Benefits of Family Prayer
1. Strengthens Family Relationships
Praying together as a family creates moments of connection that go beyond the here and now. It’s not always easy to get everyone to pause and pray—kids may not always be excited about the prospect of talking to God, and there will be times when it feels more like a task than a joy. But these everyday practices plant seeds that will bear fruit in the long run. When we gather for prayer, even if it’s a short moment at the dinner table or a bedtime blessing, we’re teaching our children that God’s presence is a constant in their lives—a foundation they can rely on no matter what.
2. Encourages Spiritual Growth
Incorporating family prayer into daily life is more about the journey than immediate results. It’s true that kids may not fully grasp the importance of prayer now, but over time, those small, repeated moments make an impact. As they grow, children will face challenges—friendships, school, decisions, and moments of uncertainty. It’s during these times, often without you even realizing, that they’ll turn to God for guidance and comfort because prayer has become a natural part of their lives. By making prayer a regular part of their routine, we’re giving them a tool they’ll carry into adulthood—a connection to Almighty God that will sustain them through life’s ups and downs.
3. Protects Against Negative Influences
Family prayer is more than just protection from immediate dangers; it builds a long-term spiritual resilience. By pairing prayer with good moments—giving thanks for a delicious meal, a happy day, or a comforting bedtime routine—kids begin to associate prayer with positive feelings. This association can make a significant difference in how they see God’s presence in their lives. Rather than viewing prayer as something they turn to only in times of fear or trouble, they’ll see it as a source of peace, joy, and connection.
Incorporating prayer into your everyday life won’t always feel monumental, but it’s that steady, everyday practice that makes the difference. Whether it’s a simple “Dear Lord, thank You for this day” or a quiet moment at the prayer corner, these habits shape how our children understand and relate to God. Fasting seasons are the perfect time to start this journey, planting seeds of faith that will grow with them for the rest of their lives.
🕯️ How to Develop a Family Prayer Routine
Developing a family prayer routine during fasting seasons doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It’s about finding natural opportunities in your day-to-day life to come together as a family and talk to Christ Jesus. Focus on creating moments that work for your unique family rhythm—small, intentional steps make all the difference.
1. Find a Time That Works for Your Family
Choose a time when your family is naturally together. If dinner is the only time everyone is sitting down, that’s a great opportunity for a short prayer before or after the meal. If you have young children, bedtime can be a special time for a quick prayer after reading a story. It doesn’t have to be long or elaborate—just a moment to reflect and talk to God together.
2. Involve the Whole Family
Make prayer a shared experience. Encourage each family member to take part by leading a prayer or mentioning something they’re thankful for or want to pray about. For younger kids, this could be as simple as “Thank You, dear Lord, for today.” For older kids or teens, it could involve sharing a more personal intention or asking for guidance in their daily lives.
3. Adapt to Your Children’s Ages
Tailor prayers to fit the needs of your kids. For toddlers and younger children, keep prayers short and simple, like “Dear God, thank You for our family.” As your children grow, introduce more structured prayers or allow them to lead when they feel ready. The key is to make it accessible and age-appropriate.
A Few Practical Family Prayer Points Tips to Keep It Real
- Keep It Manageable: Start small, even just a couple of minutes, and let the routine grow naturally over time.
- Tie It to Existing Routines: Pair prayer with moments that already happen, like mealtime, bedtime, or even during a car ride.
- Be Flexible: Don’t stress about perfection. Some days will go smoothly; other days might feel chaotic. The important thing is to keep showing up.
By finding moments that work for your family’s routine, you’re making prayer a natural and meaningful part of everyday life. These simple, consistent practices during fasting seasons can plant seeds of faith that will continue to grow in your children for years to come.
✝️ Prayers for Fasting Seasons
Here is a collection of more than 40 prayer points for family, adapted from the writings of Orthodox saints. These prayers are simple, short, and deeply meaningful—perfect for families with young children or older kids just beginning to explore their faith.
We drafted these prayers for their accessibility and practicality. Long, complex prayers can feel overwhelming, especially for younger family members, but short prayers make it easier to stay focused and engaged. These are prayers you can easily incorporate to your prayer routine and use in everyday moments: before meals, at bedtime, or during a quiet family prayer time. They help create a natural rhythm of prayer that blends into your daily life while teaching children the importance of turning to God.
Each section focuses on a unique aspect of family life, from praying as a family unit to addressing the needs of individual family members. Below, you’ll find specific suggestions for how and when to use these prayers, along with their intended focus and best use.
1. Prayers for the Whole Family
1. Prayers for the Whole Family
Focus: Fostering unity, peace, and shared faith among all family members.
These prayers are suitable for group recitation during family gatherings, meals, or evening prayer time.
Prayer for Protection
“O Lord, keep our family safe under Your care and guard us from harm.”
Prayer for Peace in the Family
“O Lord, grant that we may live together in concord and in peace, that we may be united in love, and that we may glorify Thy holy name.”
Prayer for Family Unity
“O God, our heavenly Father, who loves mankind and art most merciful and compassionate, have mercy upon Thy servants [names], for whom I humbly pray Thee and commend to Thy gracious care and protection.”
Prayer for God’s Guidance
“Lord, guide our family in all we do and help us walk in Your truth.”
Prayer of Thanksgiving for the Family
“Dear God, thank You for the blessings of family. May we honor You in all we do.”
2. Parents’ Prayers for Their Children
2. Parents’ Prayers for Their Children
Focus: Seeking divine guidance, protection, and blessings for children.
Parents can use these prayers during personal devotion or bedtime routines.
Prayer for Faith
“Lord, help my children to grow in love and faith toward You.”
Prayer for Children’s Protection
“O Lord, guard my children and protect them from all harm.”
Prayer for Wisdom
“Lord, grant my children wisdom and understanding to follow Your will.”
Prayer for Guidance
“Heavenly Father, lead my children in paths of righteousness.”
Prayer for Health
“O Lord, bless my children with good health and strengthen their bodies and minds.”
3. Children’s Prayers
3. Children’s Prayers
Focus: Introducing young children to prayer, fostering gratitude and trust in God.
Short, easy-to-memorize prayers for morning, evening, or mealtime routines.
Prayer Before Meals
“Thank You, Lord, for the food we eat. Bless it to nourish our bodies.”
Morning Prayer
“Lord, thank You for this new day. Help me to do what is right and pleasing to You.”
Evening Prayer
“Lord Jesus, thank You for today. Forgive me and bless my family tonight.”
Prayer for Parents
“Lord, bless my parents and help me to honor and obey them.”
Prayer for Help
“Jesus, help me to do my best today and trust in Your guidance.”
4. Prayers for Teens and Young Adults
4. Prayers for Teens and Young Adults
Focus: Providing spiritual support during the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood.
Encourage teens to use these prayers during personal reflection or family prayer time.
Prayer for Patience
“O Lord, teach me patience and humility in all things.”
Prayer for Guidance
“O Lord, lead me on the right path and help me to trust in Your plans.”
Prayer for Strength
“Lord, give me strength to overcome challenges and to stand firm in faith.”
Prayer for Wisdom
“Heavenly Father, grant me wisdom to make good choices in my life.”
Prayer for Purity
“Lord Jesus, help me to keep my heart and mind pure before You.”
5. Prayers for Married Couples
5. Prayers for Married Couples
Focus: Enhancing love, understanding, and spiritual connection between spouses.
These prayers help couples deepen their relationship and keep Christ at the center of their marriage.
Prayer for Marital Peace
“Lord, fill our home with Your peace and joy, and let Your love reign in our hearts.”
Prayer for Marital Unity
“Lord, unite us in love and strengthen our bond through Your grace.”
Prayer for Forgiveness
“Lord, help us to forgive one another as You have forgiven us.”
Prayer for Strength in Marriage
“O God, strengthen our love and help us to face life’s challenges together.”
Prayer for Parenting Together
“Lord Jesus, guide us as parents and help us to raise our children in faith and love.”
6. Prayers for Single Parents
6. Prayers for Single Parents
Focus: Offering strength, encouragement, and wisdom to single parents.
These prayers help single parents find comfort and guidance in their unique challenges.
Prayer for Protection
“Lord, guard my family and protect us from all harm and evil.”
Prayer for Strength
“Lord, grant me strength and patience to guide my family through Your wisdom.”
Prayer for Guidance
“Lord, lead me in the right path as I care for my children.”
Prayer for Joy in Parenting
“O Lord, fill my heart with joy and remind me of the blessings You have given me.”
Prayer for Provision
“Lord Jesus, provide for my family’s needs and help us to trust in Your care.”
7. Prayers for Extended Family
7. Prayers for Extended Family
Focus: Strengthening bonds and praying for the well-being of relatives.
These prayers are ideal for moments of reflection about loved ones or family gatherings.
Prayer for God’s Guidance
“Lord, guide my family members in Your truth and help us to follow Your ways.”
Prayer for Family Unity
“Lord, bless my extended family and keep us united in love and faith.”
Prayer for Relatives in Need
“O Lord, comfort my relatives who are in need and guide them with Your grace.”
Prayer for Family Healing
“O God, heal any divisions in my extended family and restore peace among us.”
Prayer of Thanksgiving for Family
“Heavenly Father, I thank You for the gift of my family and the love we share.”
8. Prayers for Health and Healing
8. Prayers for Health and Healing
Focus: Praying for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
These prayers are helpful during times of illness or emotional struggle within the family.
Prayer for Patience in Suffering
“Lord, teach us patience as we await Your healing touch.”
Prayer for Physical Healing
“Lord, grant healing to those in my family who are sick and restore their health.”
Prayer for Strength During Illness
“Lord Jesus, give us strength to endure suffering and to trust in Your mercy.”
Prayer for Mental Health
“O Lord, grant clarity and peace of mind to those who are troubled.”
Prayer for Emotional Peace
“Lord, bring peace to my heart and calm my worries.”
9. Prayers for Protection
9. Prayers for Protection
Focus: Shielding the family from harm, challenges, and spiritual distractions.
These prayers seek God’s protection in all aspects of life.
Prayer for Peace in the Home
“Lord, let Your peace dwell in our home and protect us from discord.”
Prayer for Safety
“Lord, surround us with Your protection and guard our home from harm.”
Prayer for Spiritual Protection
“Lord, guard our hearts and minds from evil and temptation.”
Prayer for Children’s Safety
“Heavenly Father, protect my children from all harm and keep them safe in Your care.”
Prayer for Strength in Trials
“Lord, give us strength to overcome life’s challenges and trust in You.”
10. Prayers for Gratitude
10. Prayers for Gratitude
Focus: Teaching children and adults to thank God for His blessings.
These prayers are perfect for mealtimes or family discussions about blessings.
Prayer for a Thankful Heart
“Lord, teach us to be grateful and to give thanks in all circumstances.”
Prayer of Thanksgiving
“Lord, we thank You for all the blessings You have given us.”
Prayer for Family Blessings
“Dear God, thank You for the gift of family and the love we share.”
Prayer for God’s Provisions
“Lord, thank You for providing for all our needs.”
Prayer of Praise
“O Lord, we glorify Your name for Your mercy and grace.”
Looking For Longer Prayer For The Family?
We Recommend This Prayer Book:
Book: Orthodox Christian Prayers [Prayer Book]
Buy Now →Looking for more prayer points for family to enhance your prayer routine? Check out The Synekdemos: Daily Prayers for Orthodox Christians. This post will help you better grasp the power of prayer, will teach you how to seek divine protection, and will show you how to embrace prayers that bring healing, starting with the most simple prayer: “Lord, please guide and protect my family.”
🎈 Prayer Activities for Families
Prayer Activities for Young Kids
These fun and simple activities are designed to engage young children in prayer. They are interactive, easy to set up, and help introduce the concept of talking to God in a way that’s accessible and exciting for little ones.
1. Prayer Balloon Messages
1. Prayer Balloon Messages
Write short prayers or thank-you messages on small slips of paper, insert them into balloons, and blow them up. Pop a balloon daily to reveal a prayer.
Pros:
- Adds excitement to prayer time.
- Encourages creativity and anticipation.
Cons:
- Popping balloons can be loud.
How to Use: Focus on prayers for blessings, gratitude, or protection. For example, thank Jesus Christ for keeping a member of your family safe or ask for His guidance.
2. Prayer Stones
2. Prayer Stones
Collect smooth stones, paint them with prayer themes (e.g., “love,” “family,” “health”), and use them as prompts for prayer.
Pros:
- Encourages hands-on interaction.
- A lasting tool for repeated use.
Cons:
- Painting requires adult supervision.
How to Use: Let kids pick a stone and use it to inspire prayers for peace in the family, gratitude for good things, or requests for healing.
3. Prayer Chain Links
3. Prayer Chain Links
Create a paper chain, adding one link daily with a prayer or praise.
Pros:
- A visual representation of growing prayers.
- Easy craft for kids.
Cons:
- Younger children may need help writing.
How to Use: Each link can focus on something simple, such as asking for God’s protection or giving thanks for answered prayers.
4. Prayer Treasure Hunt
4. Prayer Treasure Hunt
Hide objects or pictures representing prayer topics (e.g., a heart for love, a band-aid for healing).
Pros:
- Combines physical activity with spiritual focus.
- Engages children in a fun way.
Cons:
- Requires setup time.
How to Use: After finding the objects, gather to pray based on their meanings. For example, pray for love in your family or health for someone in need.
5. Gratitude Jar
5. Gratitude Jar
Use a jar to collect thank-you notes or drawings from the kids about things they are grateful for.
Pros:
- Teaches gratitude and reinforces blessings.
- Simple materials needed.
Cons:
- Requires consistent participation.
How to Use: During family prayer, read the notes together and thank Jesus Christ for His blessings.
Prayer Activities for Older Kids (Teenagers)
Engaging teenagers in family prayers can be challenging, but with a mix of creativity, technology, and Orthodox traditions, it’s possible to make the experience meaningful and enjoyable. These activities are designed to help teens connect with their family and faith while contributing to a shared spiritual journey.
1. Digital Family Prayer Journal
1. Digital Family Prayer Journal
Create a shared digital journal (e.g., using Google Docs or a dedicated app) where family members can add prayer requests, answered prayers, and reflections.
Pros:
- Encourages family collaboration in prayer.
- Allows teens to contribute in a way that feels relevant to their tech-savvy lives.
Cons:
- Requires internet access and consistency to maintain.
How to Use: Teens can take turns updating the journal with prayer points like family protection, gratitude for blessings, or requests for God’s wisdom during difficult times. Reflect on the journal entries during weekly family prayer time.
2. Family Prayer Challenge with Themes
2. Family Prayer Challenge with Themes
Set a weekly family prayer theme (e.g., gratitude, guidance, protection) and challenge everyone to contribute their thoughts and prayers.
Pros:
- Promotes teamwork and shared focus during prayer time.
- Gives teens an active role in choosing prayer themes.
Cons:
- Requires planning to keep the themes engaging.
How to Use: Let teens choose a theme like "peace reign in our home" or "God’s divine intervention in our decisions." During family evening prayer, discuss how each member relates to the theme and offer prayers accordingly.
3. Prayer Mapping
3. Prayer Mapping
Create a visual map of your family’s prayer focus, using a poster or digital tool to track prayer requests and answered prayers for different family members and situations.
Pros:
- Makes prayer goals tangible and visually engaging.
- Helps teens see the impact of intercessory prayers over time.
Cons:
- Requires setup and regular updates.
How to Use: Assign teens to map out prayer points for extended family, family problems, and spiritual growth. For example, include areas like breaking generational curses, asking for good health, and praying for peace among relatives. Review the map together during family morning prayer or weekly reflections.
4. Interactive Family Prayer Playlist
4. Interactive Family Prayer Playlist
Work together to create a playlist of Orthodox hymns, chants, or calming music that the family can use during prayer time.
Pros:
- Engages teens by involving them in curating music they connect with.
- Enhances the atmosphere of family prayer time.
Cons:
- Requires access to music platforms and Orthodox hymn collections.
Play the playlist during family prayer sessions, such as before bedtime. Teens can help select hymns that inspire prayers for blessings, unity, and guidance.
5. Family Prayer Photo Wall
5. Family Prayer Photo Wall
Create a photo wall featuring family members and situations you’re praying for, such as grandparents, cousins, or specific family challenges.
Pros:
- Visual and personal, helping teens connect their prayers to real people and needs.
- Encourages a spirit of care and intercession.
Cons:
- Requires space and printed photos or digital alternatives.
How to Use: Teens can help update the wall with photos or notes, like “Pray for Uncle John’s health” or “Thank God for our family vacation.” Use the wall as a focal point during family evening prayers to keep everyone engaged and involved.
Disclaimer: These family prayer points suggestions are inspired by various resources we’ve come across online, and we’ve found them to be fun and engaging activities for these age groups. They aren’t essential to building a prayer routine, but they offer creative and kid-friendly ways to make family prayer more meaningful and enjoyable. Feel free to adapt them to fit your family’s unique needs and traditions.
❤️ Final Take Away
Family prayer during fasting seasons is more than just a routine. It’s a powerful gift that builds a legacy of faith, strengthens bonds, and invites the presence of the Lord Jesus into your home. These moments of connection, whether shared around a prayer corner, during bedtime, or through creative activities, are opportunities to align your family with the will of God. They create a supportive environment where peace can reign and where the name of Jesus becomes a foundation for future generations.
While immediate results may not always be visible, the seeds planted through consistent prayer will bear fruit in your children’s lives. As they face life’s toughest battles, navigate challenges, or even experience joy, they’ll turn to the knowledge of God instilled in them through family prayer. By focusing on practical, engaging activities and short, heartfelt prayers, you are teaching your children to trust in the power of God, the blood of Jesus, and the guidance of our dear Heavenly Father.
Incorporating prayer into your family’s everyday life is not about perfection but about intention. It’s about teaching your children to seek God’s direction, break free from any generational curse or evil foundation, and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome difficulties and find joy. Whether through creative projects like prayer chains or meaningful traditions like scripture reflections, these practices open doors of opportunity for your family to experience the grace of our faithful Father and the positive impact of walking with Him.
Remember, the journey of prayer is ongoing, and every step taken together as a family—no matter how small—brings you closer to the gracious God who loves and cares for every member of your family. Let the name of Jesus be the guiding light in your lives, and may your family grow in faith, love, and the joy of the Lord through each prayer you share.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a list of questions people have been asking about family prayer points to help make family prayer more meaningful and impactful.
Thanksgiving Prayer Points:
Thank Father God for family, good relationships, and protection.
Acknowledge His blessings and great works in your lives.
Scripture:“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
Prayer: “Father Lord, thank You for Your blessings and for guiding every member of my family. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
Deliverance Prayer Points:
Pray for freedom from generational curses, evil spirits, and family bondage.
Scripture:“No weapon forged against you will prevail” (Isaiah 54:17).
Prayer: “Dear Heavenly Father, deliver us from all evil plantations and arrows of family idols. Protect us with the blood of Jesus. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
New Year Prayer Points:
Ask for God’s direction, blessings, and provision.
Scripture:“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3).
Prayer: “Lord God, guide our family in this new year. Bless us with good health and unity. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
Warfare Prayer Points:
Pray against spiritual attacks and ancestral powers.
Scripture:“The weapons we fight with have divine power to demolish strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:4).
Prayer: “Lord, scatter every evil spirit disrupting our family. Protect us with Your power and the Holy Ghost fire. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
We hope these answers inspire you to use family prayer points to strengthen your family’s faith and connection with God.
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