How to Say a Nondenominational Grace

To say grace you don't need to mention religion or get into individual beliefs. Here are some pointers.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Poetry Books

1. Figure out how you want to say grace. Do you want to sit individually and bow your head, stand up behind your chairs and hold hands, or stay seated and hold hands? Consider that saying grace, even a nondenominational one, may make some people uncomfortable.

2. Decide who will lead the family and any guests in saying grace. Traditionally the head of the family takes the lead, but it is often a nice touch to have a child say grace.

3. Consider how lengthy the grace should be. Are there a lot of children present? They may fidget during a very long grace.

4. Think about the ideas and events you want to address in your grace. Have family members traveled a long way to be at the meal? Have obstacles been overcome in the past year? Have joyous occasions marked the year?

5. Consider quoting a favorite author or poet.

6. Once you've thought about what you want to say, practice making it polished and succinct. For example, if you want to acknowledge the bountiful feast and the presence of loved ones that have gathered for the meal, you might say: "We are gathered here to celebrate this lovely meal and take great joy in the fact that we can share it with our friends and family."

Tips & Warnings

• Short and simple is always best. Though people are thankful, they are no doubt hungry as well.