Holy Labor is a much-needed positive Christian account of childbirth. Aubry Smith's appreciation that "we understand God better when we understand childbirth better" is spot on. Holy Labor is a thoughtful guide to approaching birth with wisdom, grace, and yes, even joy! A must-read for expectant and experienced mothers, as well as anyone seeking a deeper understanding for how the love of God shows up in the meaningful labor of childbirth.--Courtney B. Ellis, pastor for spiritual formation at Presbyterian Church of the Master; writer at CourtneyBEllis.comAs an experienced childbirth educator and doula, Aubry G. Smith has provided a much-needed book on the topic of childbirth from a Christian perspective. She does so in a way that is both biblically and theologically anchored while being extremely practical. Her personal vignettes lace through the book and accentuate vital spiritual practices that deepen one's faith. I cannot wait to refer this book to the expectant moms I know!--Diane J. Chandler, PhD, associate professor, Regent University School of Divinity; author, Christian Spiritual Formation: An Integrative Approach to Personal and Relational WholenessNothing has shaped me and my view of God like the experiences of pregnancy, loss, birth, and raising children. Childbirth is more than a metaphor, it's an altar. With this book, Aubry G. Smith has reclaimed childbirth as a profoundly theological and spiritual partnership with our Creator. Holy Labor will set women free, not only to experience an empowered and Christ-centred childbirth, but to encounter the living God in that experience.--Sarah Bessey, author of Jesus Feminist and Out of Sorts: Making Peace with an Evolving Faith