The Lord's Prayer: A Beginner's Guide (Young Explorers)
Young Explorers S. Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Written by Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell, this picture-book guide unpacks the Lord’s Prayer line by line for young readers. Using warm illustrations and short, child-friendly explanations, Cottrell shows how Jesus’ most famous prayer can be said anywhere—from a playground to a bedside—and how each phrase teaches trust, gratitude, and care for others. Everyday examples help children relate lofty ideas such as forgiveness or daily bread to their own families, friendships, and hopes for the world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-11
Length
64 pages
Discussion points
Which line of the prayer feels most important to you and why?
When have you had to forgive someone this week?
What might ‘daily bread’ look like for people in other countries?
How can we help God’s kingdom come at school?
Tip: Role play these questions
Keep a family gratitude journal inspired by ‘daily bread’.
Role-play saying sorry and forgiving using toy scenarios.
Create art showing what God’s kingdom might look like.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Belonging
Explanation: ‘Our Father’ stresses we are part of one family.
Real-World Application: Children learn they’re never alone and can include others.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: ‘Daily bread’ encourages thankfulness for everyday gifts.
Real-World Application: Kids pause before meals to name one thing they’re thankful for.
Example Lesson: Forgiveness
Explanation: Shows both giving and receiving apologies.
Real-World Application: Students practise saying sorry after playground conflicts.
Example Lesson: Hope and Justice
Explanation: ‘Your kingdom come’ imagines a fairer world.
Real-World Application: Children brainstorm small acts of kindness for classmates.