Prayer for Parents of Teenagers
A prayer for parents navigating the difficult, beautiful, exhausting years of raising teenagers
The Prayer for Parents of Teenagers is for the long, beautiful and exhausting years when you must let go and hold on at the same time. It asks God for patience with slammed doors, wisdom about rules, and trust that your child is his before yours. It acknowledges that your teenager's choices are not entirely under your control, which is both frightening and freeing. Pray it in the car, or at the sink, whenever a worry about your teen presses on you.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayPrayer for Parents of Teenagers
Lord, I love my child — and right now that love is being tested in ways I did not expect.
They are changing. The child I knew is somewhere inside this new person, but I cannot always reach them. We argue. They pull away. I say the wrong thing, or the right thing at the wrong time, or nothing when I should have spoken. And I go to bed at night wondering if I am getting any of this right.
(Pause here to bring your specific child and situation to God)
Give me wisdom beyond my own. Help me to see my teenager as You see them — beloved, full of potential, navigating a world that is harder and more confusing than the one I grew up in. Help me to listen more than I lecture. To stay present even when they push me away. To hold boundaries with love, not fear.
And Lord, protect my child. From the dangers they see and the ones they don't. From their own worst impulses. From the voices online and in their circle that lead them away from what is good. Surround them with people who will influence them toward You.
Do not let go of my child, Lord. And do not let me stop praying for them, even when it seems like nothing is changing. I trust that You love them even more than I do.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Prayer for Parents of Teenagers?
Pray it daily, and especially after an argument or a late night waiting up.
How do I pray the Prayer for Parents of Teenagers?
Say it quietly, name each teenager, and end with a Hail Mary for their protection.
Who is the Prayer for Parents of Teenagers for?
Parents, guardians, grandparents and godparents of teenagers.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play