Over 25 years ago, as I sat in a crowd of other grade school parents listening to the principal on topics of expectations, I heard this challenge clearly, “When it comes to what’s really important (referring to praying for our children), if not us, who? If not here, where? If not now, when?”
The next day, I searched the bookstore and our publishers for books on prayers for our children. Not a how to book or a book about praying to be better parents, but a book of prayers to the Saints and Angels, to Mary and Jesus, with meditations on the rosary and the stations for our children. I searched for prayers from their conception to their birth, their first day of school, for good friendships, through High School and College, while dating, finding jobs and searching for their vocation. I found nothing specific so I began writing these prayers for each of my children and as the journals filled, I thought it would be nice to share with other parents. Ave Maria Press agreed and Bless My Child was published in 2005. I am happy to say it has sold over 14,000 copies in these 21 years. That is 14,000 parents praying for our children. As we all know, “It takes a village.”
This week I have been informed that Bless My Child will go out of print after Ave has sold all their copies. It’s been an amazing run and has prompted the follow up book, (maybe you can say my next chapter) Bless My Grandchild, which seems to be still selling well. I hope and pray that many of you have gained comfort and joy from these prayers, knowing that Jesus, Mary, the Saints and Guardians watch over our precious children and grandchildren. I have been honored to join with parents all over the world praying for our children. I pray today that those 14,000 copies, wherever they are, continue to be used daily and passed on through generations. I am extremely grateful to Ave Maria Press.
My titles are available through St. Mary’s Bookstore or your favorite local bookstore. You can also purchase from Ave Maria Press and most importantly, you can leave a comment or a review. I think Ave would be thrilled to hear how these small prayer books help our children and our grandchildren and make a difference in our own prayer lives. I know I would. Thank you for all your support!