This rite is rarely used nowadays, as modern medicine generally allows women to recover from childbirth in a matter of days, and the baptism of children generally takes place a number of weeks after birth, so mothers are able to participate. The ceremony is held to prepare an expectant mother for her upcoming birth journeyto shower mom-to-be with love, support and encouragement. ABOUT THE BLESSING . Fill me with your Spirit and help me endure the difficulties of childbirth with my hope set on the joy of the child you have given me. And help me to do my best to guard and protect my baby for his/her lifetime. May I be filled with joy as a new life enters the world. ORDER FOR THE BLESSING OF A MOTHER BEFORE CHILDBIRTH INTRODUCTORY RITES Lay minister says: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. V. Let us bless the Father, and the Son with the Holy Spirit. This is especially true when a child dies before birth. Please provide everything I need throughout the process of childbirth. Blessing of Parents after a Miscarriage or Stillbirth Print Download PDF In times of death and grief the Christian turns to the Lord for consolation and strength. Receive with kindness the prayer of your servant as she asks for the birth of a healthy child. 240-252, is used. I belong to you and I am safe in your hands. The term 'Blessing Way' is often used to describe these events. Help me to feel secure in the knowledge that you have good plans for me. 236 The blessing before childbirth provided here may be celebrated for an individual mother, particularly in the company of her own family. Psalm 23:1-4 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. One of the principal texts used to interpret churching was Leviticus 12:2-9, which declares that women were to be considered unclean after giving birth, and that they could not touch anything holy or be in a holy place. Please give me the endurance I need to carry on. Through Christ our Lord. 272 Or, after the invitation, "Bow your heads and pray for God's blessing," or something similar is said, he says, with hands outstretched: May God, the source of all life, protect you by his goodness. and may all the ends of the earth fear him! Jesuitresource.org is developed by The Center for Mission and Identity at Xavier University with support from the Conway Institute for Jesuit Education. Bless their health, their heart and their soul. 253 The minister says: Our help is in the name of the Lord. 217 These orders may be used by a priest or a deacon, and also by a layperson, who follows the rites and prayers designated for a lay minister, or a family member. The prayers indicate that this blessing is intended solely for the benefit of the mother, and hence it is not necessary that she should bring the child with her; nevertheless, in many places the pious and edifying custom prevails of specially dedicating the child to God. Let us pray to God, who throughout the ages Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen. May your love fill my heart with joy. A blessingway is all about nurturing and connecting heart to heart with the mother. And may almighty God bless us all, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Blessing Of A Christmas Tree # 2. Bless my child and fill them with your Holy Spirit. Brothers and sisters, listen to the words of the first book of Samuel: 1:19-20, 24-2:1 The birth of Samuel. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen. It is brought by the mother, who has already been cleansed and washed, accompanied by the intended sponsor at the Baptism. R. Her hope, O my God, is in You. therefore I will hope in him. 216 The blessing may be celebrated at any time during the pregnancy. Prayer: Dear Father in Heaven, as I focus on breathing during this phase of labor, I remember that your Almighty breath gave me life. V. Send help to her, O Lord, from Your holy place. 241 A minister who is a priest or deacon greets those present in the following or other suitable words, taken mainly from sacred Scripture. May the blessing of almighty God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Bless us richly with health, happiness and laughter. forever and ever. Labor for love of her, draw others to her by your own example. May good luck be with you wherever you go. Job 10:19. Blessing Prayer Heavenly Father, your word says that children are a gift from the Lord. Related: What Black mothers-to-be need to know before giving birth. Then he blesses all present. R. Who has made heaven and earth. in the unity of the Holy Spirit, For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb. Order for the Blessing of Parents and an Adopted Child XI. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen. all that I hope for from the LORD. May I know that peace as I give birth. 250 After the prayer of blessing, the minister invites all present to pray for the protection of the Blessed Virgin. 217 These orders may be used by a priest or a deacon, and also by a layperson, who follows the rites and prayers designated for a lay minister, or a family member. We ask that this your handmaid (insert name), may he let his face shine upon us. Listen to our prayers and help us in our needs. May my son/daughter grow up to follow You all the days of his/her life and guide me with wisdom as his/her mother from this first moment on. I come to you today to thank you for giving us this beautiful gift. Listen to the words of the Book of Lamentations: My soul is deprived of peace, R. 268 All then sing or recite the Canticle of Mary, or a hymn of thanksgiving may be sung. Compassionate God, Please restore my strength as I feel weary. Prayer for Friends and Family left at Home - O God, Protector of all people and . R. Amen. Help me to cling to You and look forward to the joy ahead when I see my little baby for the first time. He has raised up a horn for our salvation within the house of David his servant. 558 Blessing Before a Meal 558 Thanksgiving After a Meal 559 Some Aspirations. May I feel your presence today in new and excellent ways. I am in a state of grace knowing the incredible co-creative power I have with God, right here, right now. The woman existed, but the mother, never. R. Amen. Give wisdom to the doctors who will attend to me in the labor room so that everything goes perfectly in the delivery. they may praise you and glorify you Please watch over me through childbirth. Book of Blessings - Blessing of a mother before childbirth; Opportunities and Challenges These prayers include: Powerful Catholic Prayers for Protection , Powerful Catholic Prayers for Help, Most Powerful Catholic Prayer for Intentions, Most Powerful Prayer for a Miracle, The Most Powerful Prayer on Earth, Powerful Prayer in Urgent Need, Powerful Prayers That Work, Holy Spirit Miracle Prayer, Jesus Christ Miracle Prayer, Instant Miracle Prayers, Daily Catholic Prayers, Christian Prayers, Real Miracles Today. Amen. We rest in you. The blessingway is often segmented into several ceremonies that have been adapted from the traditional Navajo's sacred fertility rites. May your peace enfold me, your wisdom guide me, your hand protect me, and your love fill me. 237 But the blessing after childbirth provided here is intended only for a mother who was unable to take part in the celebration of her child's baptism; therefore it is celebrated only for an individual mother. Give me patience and wisdom to do the right things and to do things rightly. Come Holy Spirit Prayer O Jehovah, my God, look upon me with grace and mercy. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen. A Blessingway, or Mother's Blessing, is a celebration of pregnancy and becoming a mother that focuses more on the mother than the baby. It is different from a baby shower in that it focuses on the femininity and power that comes through growing a baby and giving birth. R. Our soul waits for the LORD, who is our help and our shield, For in him our hearts rejoice; in his holy name we trust. Blessed be God for ever. A. Gracious Father,your Word, spoken in love, created the human familyand, in the fullness of time,your son, conceived in love, restored it to your friendship. R. That they may guard you in all your ways. May the Holy Spirit indwell in our hearts and God reign in our lives. Father, I speak a blessing over my child and I. In some traditional homes, only the father blesses the children. R/. Bless this child. Watch over and support these parents Blessing Of A Christmas Tree # 1. Those who labor thus are the dearest of the dear to The Divine Mother." The Divine Mother, Sri Daya Mata. You are my comforter, Lord, please comfort me. #24: Congratulations on the birth of your much-anticipated baby girl. Giving Birth Prayer Merciful Father, thank you that every good and perfect gift comes from you. Priest: Blessed is our God always, both now and ever, and to the ages of ages. When only the mother is present, the Order for the Blessing of a Mother before Childbirth, nos. 267 A prayer of thanksgiving is then said. May we find rest in your secure arms, let our hearts be filled with the joy of the Lord. Bless me with the strength I need right now and ensure a safe and smooth labor process. you may enlighten their faith, 236 The blessing before childbirth provided here may be celebrated for an individual mother, particularly in the company of her own family. Blessed be God now and for ever. Congrats on having a beautiful flower. A blessingway is a woman-centered celebration of the journey into motherhood. Copyright 19XX, International Committee on English in the Liturgy. You have chosen this day as the day my baby will be born. Your Son, our Lord who lives and is King and God with You, Luke 1:41-42a When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, "Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.". The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCBs) mission is to encounter the mercy of Christ and to accompany His people with joy. JesuitResource.org is a service of Xavier University's Center for Mission and Identity, Xavier University Center for Mission and Identity 3800 Victory Parkway Cincinnati, OH 45207 513-745-3777, Multi Faith Calendar of Religious Holy Days, Foundational Documents on Jesuit Catholic Education, Xavier University's Center for Mission and Identity. New Life Prayer Lord Jesus Christ, you love children and families. Order of Blessing on the Occasion of a Birthday He then spoke a few words in preparation saying: The reason for the blessing of a mother-to-be is that she may await her hour of delivery in faith and hope, as the partner of God's own love . 3, Shop: Roman Catholic "RC" Brand Original Black Logo Collection Tote Bag. 274 It is preferable to end the celebration with a suitable song. Amen. Let us pray. I will learn as much from them as I teach them. Luke 1:68-69 Zechariah prayed: Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has visited and brought redemption to his people. May Mary be her guide and support, calming her fears and strengthening her love. May the Son nourish your faith, build up your hope, and deepen in you the gift of his love. Be with me during the highs and the lows. Pope Benedict XVI 1927-2022 tribute page and access to resources here. Already in the early Middle Ages, some commentators linked the absence of the mother from the baptism of her child and her eventual churching to Old Testament notions of impurity and uncleanliness associated with childbirth. Fill my heart with your perfect peace and protect me and my baby from harm. 276 One of those present or the minister reads a text of sacred Scripture, for example: 1 Samuel 1:27 I prayed for this child, and the LORD granted my request. Check out this Jesuit/Dominican rap battle, Portuguese bishops announce steps to end sexual abuse in the Church, Report: Wave of murders after elections in Nigeria forces Catholic diocese staff to evacuate, Aid to the Church in Need greatly concerned about Nicaraguan bishop sentenced to prison, We know that hes in heaven: Thousands gather for funeral of Bishop David OConnell in Los Angeles, Bishop Paprocki, Archbishop Naumann speak out in support of Traditional Latin Mass goers in their dioceses. 262 In the following or similar words, the minister prepares the mother and all present for the blessing. You are my deliverer, my shield and my stronghold. Blessing Of A Christmas Tree # 4. Mar 03, 2023 10:00 A.M. With tears of joy streaming down her face, a mother clutched her husband's hand tightly as they received the news they had been praying for. Shop: Roman Catholic "RC" Brand Original Black Logo Collection Embroidered Beanie - White | Multiple colors available. O God, author and sustainer of human life, from your goodness your servant N. has received the joy of becoming a mother. R. 247 As circumstances suggest, the minister may give those present a brief explanation of the biblical text, so that they may understand through faith the meaning of the celebration. Prayer for Government Leader - God of power and might, wisdom and . May I glorify you throughout this process. 42. V. Be to her, O Lord, a tower of strength. Gracious Father, your Word, spoken in love, created the human family and, in the fullness of time, your Son, conceived in love, restored it to your friendship. At the hour of your delivery may he be attentive to your prayers and strengthen you with his grace. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen. As I progress through labor and delivery, pour out your strength into my mind and body. Soothing Prayer Father of Enduring Faithfulness, fill me with hope and strength as I feel exhausted from labor. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen. After the singing, the minister says: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. All make the sign of the cross and reply: Amen. Filling her cup so it overflows with love and confidence as she awaits the impending birth of her baby. in the pain of sorrow there is consolation, You know me better than anyone else and you know my needs. The minister says: Christ the Lord, the blessed fruit of Mary's womb, by the mystery of his incarnation filled the world with his grace and goodness. A blessingway is a woman-centered celebration of the journey into motherhood. R. The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. and comfort your faithful people in their time of loss That's because the mother of three is Tara Vickers. through the same Jesus Christ, by the co-working of the Holy Spirit, 245 Or: Luke 1:26-38--You shall conceive and bear a son. I am at one with all creation; I sit in the spirit and the nearness of the God of my Being. I know you are blessed on the birth of such a handsome baby boy. Hear the prayers of N. and N., Decline in vocations to the priesthood is worse where priests serve larger flocks, report says. V. Our help is in the name of the Lord. Amen. and made them holy by the power of the Holy Spirit. 215 A husband and wife participate in God's love through the sacrament of marriage and cooperate in the gift of life through the conception of a child. Internal Strength Prayer Lord Jesus Christ, thank you you speak life into existence. The Bible says that you make all things work together for my good. May you be changed in all the ways you hope to be changed. Welcome your baby into the world with these beautiful Irish blessings. 2. When only the mother is present, the Order for the Blessing of a Mother before Childbirth, nos. Grant that this mother may live in reliance on your goodness and in thankfulness to you. May you never want for more. making our forefathers Your beloved people, May I be filled with joy as a new life enters the world. Birth Prayer Everlasting Father, thank you that you are the author of life. All make the sign of the cross and reply: Amen. May I see more of your beauty and goodness and praise you throughout this experience. 238 The present order may be used by a priest, a deacon, or a lay minister. reserved. O Lord God, 258 When a new mother has been unable to take part in the celebration of her child's baptism, it is fitting to have a special celebration in order to provide the opportunity for her to benefit from the blessing that in the rite of baptism prompts the mother and all present to thank God for the gift of the newborn child. V. Lord, hear my prayer. 215 A husband and wife participate in God's love through the sacrament of marriage and cooperate in the gift of life through the conception of a child. Assisting minister: For the new life that has begun in this family, let us thank the Lord, saying: Assisting minister: For the child that this mother has so happily received from your hands. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. Lord, God of all creation, The journey to motherhood is an exciting one, full of anticipation and hope . Amen. 37. in their profession of the true faith, Childbirth is easy, the hardest is raising a girl child in this world, fighting for her rights and giving her safety. Please let this child bring joy and pride to me and my family. Luke 1:67-79-Blessed be the Lord. We fly to you for protection, holy Mother of God. R. Amen. 246 As circumstances suggest, the following responsorial psalm may be sung or said, or some other suitable song. and bring their child into this world It is appropriate that they receive God's blessing together as they wait in faith and hope for the birth of their child. Remember us, Lord, when you come to your kingdom, and teach us how to pray: 228 A minister who is a priest or deacon says the prayer of blessing with hands outstretched over the parents; a lay minister says the prayer with hands joined. He has particular care for those born of a Christian marriage, since through the sacrament of baptism they will receive the gift of divine life itself. Bible Verses for a Healthy Pregnancy 1. May Christ, who became one of us in the womb of the Virgin Mary, be with you all. through Christ our Lord. Prayers on the Birth of a Baby Prayers Forever Young At Every Step Forever Young May God bless and keep you always May your wishes all come true May you always do for others And let others do for you May you build a ladder to the stars And climb on every rung May you stay forever young May you grow up to be righteous May you grow up to be true Keep my eyes fixed on you. Getty If you or someone you know is about to welcome a little one into a family here are some prayers and wishes. Blessing Of A Woman Before The Birth Of A Child, Blessing Of Herbs On The Feast Of The Assumption, Blessing Of A Child To Obtain For It The Mercy Of God. 273 A lay minister invokes God's blessing on the mother and all present by signing himself or herself with the sign of the cross and saying: May the tender love of the Father, the peace of his Son, Jesus Christ, the grace and strength of the Holy Spirit preserve you to live by the light of faith and to reach the promise of eternal happiness. you have allowed her to conceive. mighty and awe-inspiring, The ceremony includes thanksgiving for the woman's survival of childbirth, and is performed even when the child is stillborn, or has died unbaptized. R. Let us praise and exalt Him forever. New York: Catholic Book Publishing Co., A woman who is nourished, nurtured and given lots of . R. May your kindness, O LORD, be upon us who have put our hope in you. You never forget a promise. Surrounded by God Prayer Lord of Unfailing Love, help me when I feel afraid. Whatever happens, I know that we are all fearfully and wonderfully made. R. 225 As circumstances suggest, the minister may give those present a brief explanation of the biblical text, so that they may understand through faith the meaning of the celebration. having him leap with joy in his mothers womb. Prayer for Gods Guidance - Father in Heaven, You made me Your child and . 217 These orders may be used by a priest or a deacon, and also by a layperson, who follows the rites and prayers designated for a lay minister, or a family member. Lord, grant mercy to all the members of this family 277 A minister who is a priest or deacon says the prayer of blessing with hands outstretched; a lay minister says the prayer with hands joined. But then, a miracle happened. Thank you for bringing me to this point in time and for your perfect plan for the hours ahead. by her constancy in that same faith, Seat 6 close friends or relatives around the mother-to-be. It may also be celebrated for several mothers together, for example, in a hospital, and then the formularies are said in the plural wherever necessary. Save them, O almighty God 216 The blessing may be celebrated at any time during the pregnancy. The second is that the time for the recovery of women after childbirth was, until recent times, a couple of weeks, so mothers were not physically able to be present. And so she remained at home and nursed her son until she had weaned him. Pope Benedict XVI 1927-2022 tribute page and access to resources here. Powerful Presence Prayer God of Love, thank you for the life and grace that you alone can give. As I go through labor, your grace is enough to meet my needs. A newborn babe brings light to the house warmth to the hearth and joy to the soul for wealth is family and family is wealth. This rite, generally known as churching, was a blessing of women for the gift of new children, and marked their return to the Churchs liturgical life. R. In the face of the enemy. May my child find true freedom in you. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.". Brothers and sisters, listen to the words of the holy gospel according to Luke: 1:39-45 The baby leapt in my womb for joy. Fill my heart with the assurance that you are full of steadfast love for me. R. And let my cry reach up to You. (Let us bless the Lord:) R. Assisting minister: You took life from Mary and willed that the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you would be called blessed. Let me cling onto your promises. and the ardent desire of Your handmaid (insert name), I ask that I would know your comforting presence. You thank him today for the gift of your child: may he bring you and your child one day to a share in the unending joys of heaven. Lead me in the path of knowledge with my child. News, analysis & spirituality by email, twice-weekly from CatholicCulture.org. During a Blessingway, a group of her closest friends will come together and honor her pregnancy and journey into motherhood. Luke 2:1-14--She gave birth to her firstborn son. May this child know your love, your wisdom and your care. with the assurance of your unfailing mercy. Safely inside me asleep and so warm. May the nations be glad and exult 269 A minister who is a priest or deacon says the prayer of blessing with hands outstretched; a lay minister says the prayer with hands joined. Ecclesiastes 11:5. Draw Near Prayer Loving God, please draw near to me as I call on you. Father, turn the labor room into a favorite room. Book of Blessings: Blessing of a Mother Before and After Childbirth, Book of Blessings: Blessing of Parents After a Miscarriage, Free eBook: Essays in Apologetics, Vol. and ask for strength, for healing, and for love. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen. For all who have suffered the loss of a child, that Christ may be their support, Miss. 219 A minister who is a priest or deacon greets those present in the following or other suitable words, taken mainly from sacred Scripture. It is appropriate that they receive God's blessing together as they wait in faith and hope for the birth of their child. 235 A minister who is a priest or deacon says the prayer of blessing with hands outstretched over the parents; a lay minister says the prayer with hands joined. 235 A minister who is a priest or deacon says the prayer of blessing, with hands outstretched Calm their fears when they are anxious. May your presence be my strength when I feel pain. As circumstances suggest, a priest or deacon may use the following short blessing formulary: God has brought gladness and light to the world| through the Virgin Mary's delivery of her child. Reprinted with permission from Book of Blessings. Just as you do not know the path of the wind and how bones are formed in the womb of the pregnant woman, so you do not know the activity of God who makes all things. consolation in our grief, May we feel you so close to us as we sense your amazing creativity at work. Blessings upon you my baby unborn. God is the giver of life. R. Assisting minister: For all the favors that your fatherly love continually bestows on us. "Giving birth and being born brings us into the essence of creation, where the human spirit is courageous and bold and the body, a miracle of wisdom.". Watch over and support these parents and bring their child into this world safely and in good health, so that as members of your family they may praise you and glorify you through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, now and for ever. Brothers and sisters, listen to the words of the first book of Samuel: 1:20-28 The Lord granted my request. R/. Endnotes: 12. 244 A reader, another person present, or the minister reads a text of sacred Scripture. Fill me with the strength I need to give birth. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen. While maintaining the structure and chief elements of the rite, the minister should adapt the celebration to the circumstances of the place and the mother involved. we pray to the Lord. The leader says the prayer of blessing with hands joined. 271 A minister who is a priest or deacon concludes the rite by facing the mother and saying: Almighty God has brought you the joy of motherhood: may he now bless + you. Welcoming Wishes For Newborn Boys. R. Assisting minister: For the sacrament of baptism that has made the heart of her child the temple of your glory. R. In the face of the enemy. For all who work in maternity units and with parents, may they always recognise and cherish the gift of life. They can include blessed objects and places, such as holy water, shrines, and religious medals (for example, those of your patron saints). we pray to the Lord. After the intercessions, the leader invites all present to say the Lord's Prayer. 226 The litany is then said. N. and N., as we mourn the death of your child, Once he was weaned, she brought him up with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and presented him at the temple of the Lord in Shiloh.