A blessing baby shower can be a great activity to host for a mother expecting subsequent children and offer her support. When a family no longer needs car seats, cribs, strollers, etc. the best way to support them is through prayer. A “blessing shower” involves centering the baby party around praying for the expecting mother and little soul she carries within her.
A Blessing Shower generally has Three Key Ingredients: Prayer Cards, Candles, and a Sacramental for the Mother.
Words of prayer can be so useful when we can’t think of prayer ourselves. Recited prayer is very encouraged, such as Hail Mary’s. When a mother is in labor, coming up with words is nearly impossible. Having prayers from her friends to read, or have read to her, can be comforting and beautiful during that time. If you write a prayer card for a friend, try writing it from her perspective. Write words she can say for herself in labor.
Candles have been used to keep prayerful ritual for centuries. Many women enjoy scented candles during labor. Attaching an image of the Blessed Mother or the words of a prayer to a candle can be a wonderful gift. A calming scent and image can help a mother relax during labor. Some friends like to use their own prayer candles to light when mother is in labor. But only if she decides to inform them she’s giving birth.
Catholics understand the beautiful use of sacramentals: blessed objects that lift our minds and hearts to prayer. Many individuals draw comfort from wearing Miraculous Medals or the images of saints when they go through adversity. My sister wore a ribbon around her wrist with the medal of St. Gerard when she was in the hospital prior to delivering her twins. The nurses could see how calming the effect of prayer was on her. They allowed her to wear the medal during her emergency C-section. Giving an expecting mother a sacramental to wear during labor could make untold difference in her delivery.
Patron Saints of Pregnancy:
There are too many wonderful saints to pray to during pregnancy, but here are a few suggestions. St. Ann was the mother of Mary. St. Nicholas is the patron of children. St. Gianna was a midwife. St. Gerard was known for praying over troubled mothers who managed to unexpectedly deliver healthy babies.
Of course, our Blessed Mother is always there for us. Mary accepted pregnancy at fifteen, unmarried and unprepared. Her heart is with mothers, and she will always intercede for us.
