Global Day of Prayer for Childbirth
May 5, 2009
A Call to Prayer for Safe Motherhood
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Pregnancy and childbirth are one of the most universal of all human experiences. We are all born, and at some point we will welcome an infant into this world as a parent, extended family or other loved one. Why then do we as Christians ignore childbirth except when giving birth to our own child?
As a new soul enters our world, the people around are forever changed. For many parents it is the first time they really consider who they are, what they believe and what legacy they want to pass on. Pregnancy and childbirth are a blessing and a miracle that naturally draw those around to a time of self-reflection which can either strengthen a relationship with God or strengthen an enmity with God. A woman's experiences through pregnancy and birth continue to affect her long after her baby is born through the way she mothers, her relationship to her husband and the health of her whole family. The time of pregnancy and giving birth is one of the most spiritually significant times in a woman's life, and it is under attack all over the world.
Pregnancy and childbirth are affected by the social, economic, political, health and environmental circumstances that surround her. Because of this, specific situations from different parts of the world may seem polar opposites and still negatively affect childbirth. While the particulars may change, the basic problem of bad pregnancy and birth experiences hindering relationships with God remains the same.
Christians in the childbirth professions are rightfully focused on serving the families in their areas. We make a difference one family at a time. While this is important, two truths should never be forgotten. The first is that it is our efforts in coordination with God's that effect change. The second is that despite all our efforts, some battles are too big for human hands and are won by God alone.
Please join with Christians around the globe on May 5, 2009 who will be praying for God to make changes in all areas that affect families as they bring their children into this world. Why May 5? It is recognized as the International Day of the Midwife.
Comments from Christian Birth Leaders
Giving birth is one of the most profound experiences of a woman's life; it affects her understanding of her personhood and of God's goodness and love for the rest of her life. What could merit prayer more?! I look forward to joining with many others in beseeching God to bring a revolution to birthing practices in the United States and beyond.
Kathy Nesper, CCE
President
Apple Tree Family Ministries
www.appletreefamily.org
The Global Day of Prayer for Childbirth is exciting and important event. It will be a day "where two or more are gathered" to lift up Jesus Christ our Savior, to thank Him for his wondrous design of the pregnancy and birth process. It will also be a time to pray that mothers, families, midwives, childbirth educators, doulas and physicians will turn to the Lord and help make our Heavenly Father the focus of pregnancy, labor birth and parenting. God can do amazing and wonderful things!
Brandi Wood
Christian Midwives International
www.ChristianMidwives.org
I am so excited about The Global Day of Prayer for Childbirth! It is an essential component for creating better birth outcomes in this country and beyond. Coming together in unity for a scheduled prayer is one way, one small way we can walk in unity; uplifting and inspiring women in pregnancy and childbirth while giving God the glory due His name. Let our voices entreat our LORD for health, for safety, for reformation - it all starts with us, and we can make a difference together!
Doran Richards
Founder, Blessing God's Way
www.blessingGodsway.com
God has raised up many workers in the field of the Christian childbirth ministry over the last seven years. In this special year, we have the privilege of witnessing those ministers coming together to form a more unified body of Christ. It is now, therefore, more important than ever to pray for these ministers, and also for those being ministered to. Each of us can take a moment to pause and give thanks to the Lord for what He has done, and also to petition Him for what has yet to be. Godspeed to all of us.
Kelly Townsend
Cascade Christian Childbirth Association
www.christianchildirth.org
Related Topics:The Coach's Notebook explores more ways to prepare for childbirth with comfort measures and techniques you can use. Prepare your physical body for childbirth with exercise and nutrition. The Christian Childbirth Resource Directory lists websites, books and organizations all created to help you honor God through childbirth. Birthing Naturally Books publishes books to help you grow closer to God during this special time of life. Find childbirth professionals near you in the Natural Childbirth Directory. |
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