O God, the Father and creator of human life, help us never to become discouraged in defending the full breadth of that most precious gift, from the miracle of fertilization to the spiritual serenity of a natural death. Inspire us to remember that without you we are powerless, and that what we do for the least, especially the helpless unborn dearest to you, we are actually doing for your Son, who lives and works in and through us. Protect us against the wiles and wickedness of the devil, “a murderer and a liar from the beginning.” May the Holy Spirit enlighten us along our daily way! Amen.

–Rev. Paul B. Marx, OSB