Here and Now with Mary

Children do not have to feel calm, happy, or certain before they can pray. They can begin right where they are.

Here and Now with Mary: Praying with Mary Through Every Feeling is an illustrated Catholic prayer book that helps children bring their everyday emotions to Jesus with Mary's loving guidance. From feeling scared, worried, or angry to feeling happy, hopeful, or grateful, each spread offers a simple place to begin.

Twenty-four emotion-based spreads follow a reassuring pattern: Tell Mary, Pray, Remember, and Stay Here. Children are invited to name what they are experiencing, ask Mary to help them turn toward Jesus, pray a short prayer, and take one small, thoughtful step. An additional opening spread welcomes moments when they are not sure what they feel.

Colorful illustrations and clear, compassionate language make the book approachable for elementary-age readers, while younger children can explore it with a parent or caregiver. There is no need to read in order or finish every page. Children can turn to the feeling that fits their moment and spend a little time with God.

Written for independent prayer or shared family reading, Here and Now with Mary offers parents, grandparents, teachers, and catechists a gentle way to connect everyday feelings with Catholic faith. It encourages children to grow in trust, gratitude, and a personal relationship with Jesus through Mary.

A prayer companion for ordinary days, difficult moments, and joyful ones-with the reminder that every feeling can become a place to begin praying.