PRAYER FOR EXPECTANT MOTHERS

Almighty and everlasting God, through the operation of the Holy Ghost, you prepared the body and soul of the glorous Virgin Mary, Mother of God, to be a worthy dwelling for your Son:  through the same Holy Spirit you sanctified St John the Baptist before his birth.  Deign to hear the prayer of your humble servant.  Through the intercessions of St Gerard, I implore you to protect me (her) in motherhood and guard from the evil spirit the child You have given me (her), that by your saving hand it may receive holy Baptism.  Grant also that, having lived as good Christians on earth, both mother and child may be united in the everlasing happiness of heaven.

Amen.

PRAYER FOR MOTHERHOOD

O good St Gerard, powerful intercessor before God and wonder worker of our day, confidently I call upon you and seek your aid.  On earth you always fulfilled God's designs:  help me now to do the holy will of God.  Implore the Master of life, from whom all paternity proceeds, to render me fruitful in offspring, that I may raise my children to God in his life and in the world to come heirs to the kingdom of His glory.

Amen.

PRAYER FOR PARENTHOOD

God, our Father we know your great love for us and for all your children.  It was out of love that you created all things.  Your love fills us with new life.  Make our love fruitful.  With the prayers of St Gerard to assist us we come before you in trust and confidence.  We make our prayer through your Son, Jesus Christ.

Amen.