Most heavenly Father of the human race,
behold me, unworthy though I am;
see that I am about to have a baby.
I pray that you assist me
to bear the pain of childbirth courageously,
and give me physical and moral strength.
Avert from me any unseen or unnatural circumstances
and grant me the privilege of bearing a normal, healthy baby.
Hear my humble prayer, dear Lord, offered to you
with confidence and love in this hour of my expectation.
Help me to be a good mother in word and example.
Grant that after my delivery my little baby
may learn at an early age of your greatness.
May the joy and peace of a safe delivery fill my heart,
and may your blessed name be praised now and evermore.
Sister E Gbonda, Sierra Leone
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And in due time Hannah conceived and bore a son,
and she called his name Samuel, for she said,
“I have asked for him from the Lord.”
Credits: Pierre Holtz for UNICEF
prayer & verse 