My Sacred Contract as a Student Midwife

One of my assignments is to write a sacred contract. I'm not really sure how I feel about this, but I will write it as more of a way to honor what I want to achieve over time in this work. So, here we go...

As I embark on this journey in The Matrona Holistic Midwifery Education Program, I acknowledge the weight and responsibility of this calling. I recognize that midwifery is not just a skill but a sacred role—one that requires wisdom, humility, and a steadfast commitment to both learning and serving.

I believe birth is a kairos moment—a moment where time stands still, where the veil between the earthly and the divine is thinnest, and where a woman is forever changed. Birth is not simply a physical act; it is a transformation that leaves an imprint on the body, mind, and soul. It is a threshold that, once crossed, reshapes who we are and how we walk through the world.

As Psalm 139:13 reminds me, “For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb.” I believe birth is a God-ordained process, one that should be honored, protected, and supported with reverence. I seek to be a guide, a support, and a witness to this divine work of creation.

Who I Am & What I Seek

I am a daughter of the Risen Savior, a wife, a mother, the eldest daughter, a granddaughter, and a sister. I am a friend. I am a woman committed to walking in wisdom and truth, honoring the roles and responsibilities God has given me.

I seek to share this wisdom of womanhood—not just for myself but for my children, the women in my circle, and my community. I want them to understand the intricacies of their own bodies, how to honor them, and how to care for them as temples of God. I want to equip them with knowledge so they can make informed, faith-aligned decisions about their health and well-being.

My Commitment to This Program & Myself

I commit to approaching my education with integrity, discipline, and curiosity, balancing the wisdom of traditional midwifery with sound, evidence-based practice. I recognize that knowledge is both a gift and a responsibility, and I will honor the process of learning, questioning, and refining my skills.

I will:

• Honor the sanctity of birth by upholding respect for the physiological, emotional, and spiritual needs of mothers and babies.

• Remain a student of life—committed to continuous learning, growth, and refinement of my practice.

• Maintain humility and reverence in the presence of birth, knowing that I am not the one who brings life forth but a witness and servant to the process.

• Respect the confidentiality of this work and the sacred nature of shared knowledge, using what I learn responsibly and ethically.

• Uphold biblical principles in my practice, honoring the roles within the family as God designed—supporting both mothers in their strength and fathers in their headship, fostering unity in the family.

My Strategy for Challenges

When I face moments of difficulty, frustration, or doubt, I will lean into prayer, scripture, and wise counsel. I will remind myself that He who began a good work in me will carry it to completion (Philippians 1:6). I will seek balance, allowing myself space to rest and reflect without losing sight of my commitment.

On Completion of This Program

I would like to believe I will be prepared to step into the role of an independent midwife. I hold sovereignty, autonomy, and self-sustainability in high regard. However, I recognize that my journey will unfold in its own time. First, I plan to take on the role of a monitrice, blending my skills as a guide and practitioner while continuing my midwifery education. I intend to deepen my hands-on experience and refine the practices I believe are necessary to competently serve women and families.

I’m not entirely sure what my practice will look like yet, but I’m excited to see where this journey takes me. I trust that God will guide my steps and open the doors that align with my calling.

This contract is my covenant with myself, my education, and my Creator. I enter this journey with gratitude, knowing that this moment has been divinely appointed.

Blessings & Gratitude,

Tenáj Ikner