Prayers After the Birth of a Child

On the Day of Birth

When you begin calling all your family and friends to announce the entry of a new soul into this life, make sure to call the Church office or the priest(s) as well! From the moment we enter this world, the Church is there for us. The prayers on the day of birth are for the healing of the mother, the protection of the mother and child, and thanksgiving to God.

On the Eighth Day After Birth

On the eighth day after a child is born, the priest may be invited to the home to say the prayers for the eighth day after birth. On this day, the child receives his or her name, just as Jesus was named by his mother and adoptive father on the eighth day after his birth. 

On the Eighth Day After Birth (The "Churching")

On the first Sunday after the fortieth day of birth, the mother and father bring the child to the narthex of the Church. This usually takes place at the end of the Divine Liturgy, but can also be arranged prior to Holy Communion if the mother so desires. Prayers are said for the mother and the child, after which the child is presented in the Church. This service recalls the presentation of Christ in the temple on the fortieth day. To make arrangements for the churching service, please contact the Cathedral Office.