A Prayer for Parents

“God our Creator
As Mary nurtured her son Jesus
at each new stage of life
with wisdom and respect,
may we too meet each new challenge of parenting
with full humanity
and respond with kindness and understanding.

Help us to promote the true meaning of discipline
as discipleship, teaching and guidance;
not smacking, punishment and humiliation.

Help us to speak out boldly and challenge those
who use religion to justify the painful punishment of children.

Create in us a sense of universal responsibility towards all children
so that in our work and daily life
we may follow the example of Jesus
who listened to children and gave them status and respect.
And may we see your likeness in every child. Amen.”

– Churches for Non-Violence