The original version appeared on the first membership card (see Appendix 1, pp. 253–54)

Alternative prayer, 1948

O God, our Father, bless, we pray thee, all the members of the Mothers’ Union, and give us the power of thy Holy Spirit, that by our example and witness, we may uphold the sanctity of marriage, and teach our children to be faithful members of thy Holy Church: Grant that, by prayer and worship, we may lead our families in holiness and purity of life, and help others to do the same; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Revised version, 1968

O God our Father

fill us with Thy Holy Spirit,

that we may firmly believe in Jesus Christ

and love Him with all our hearts.

Help us to grow in holiness

and to be faithful and loving wives and mothers.

Bless our husbands and families,

Teach us to train our children in Thy truth and love,

and fill our homes with Thy peace and joy.

Bless the members of the Mothers’ Union throughout the world.

Unite us in love and prayer, that

strengthened by Thy grace,

we may seek to do Thy will

for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Revised version, 1974

Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who gave marriage to be a source of blessing to mankind, we thank you for the joys of family life.

Pour out upon us your Holy Spirit, that we may truly love and serve you.

Bless all who are married and every parent and child. May we know your presence and peace in our homes; fill them with your love and use them for your glory. Bless the members of the Mothers’ Union throughout the world; unite us in prayer and worship, in love and service that, strengthened by your grace, we may seek to do your will; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Revised version, 1993

Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who gave marriage to be a source of blessing to mankind, we thank you for family life, with all its joys and sorrows. May we know your presence and peace in our homes, fill them with your love and use them to your glory.

Bless all who are married and every parent and child.

Pour out upon us your Holy Spirit, that we may truly love and serve you.