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Embracing the Spiritual Journey of Motherhood
Motherhood is a profound physical, emotional, and spiritual journey, brimming with opportunities for inner growth. Our purpose becomes clearer. Our capacity for love expands. Our ability to handle difficulties deepens. Each joy and challenge that motherhood brings can lead us to a more profound understanding of ourselves and the world. The day-to-day realities of being a mother, however, can seem less like a self-actualizing journey and more like a stressful slog, especially when we’re depleted and isolated. But I’m here to say that you can do more than survive motherhood—you can thrive in every single stage of it. The key is learning to embrace practices that foster health and vitality, especially a practice called self-compassion. Let me share my story with you, and you’ll see what I mean.
My initiation into motherhood began unexpectedly when my son arrived prematurely at 32 weeks. That night, the streets of Minneapolis flooded as thunderstorms raged, bringing down trees and causing widespread power outages. The setting was far removed from the serene birth I had imagined.
Yet amid the chaos, I found solace in the techniques I had learned. Tuning into my breath, I rode the waves of labor, anchored by the support of my doula. My beautiful son made his entrance into the world on the summer solstice, illuminating our lives like the brightest ray of sunshine.
Hours later in the NICU, our fingertips brushed against his tiny hands through the confines of an incubator. Tears blurred our vision as we struggled with the reality that our baby, who needed the shelter of my womb a little longer, was going to spend his first weeks in a hospital.
The early postpartum phase challenged me. Anxiety and self-doubt clouded my days, as I questioned past decisions and worried about the future . I tried to control everything for his safety, and it led to living in an overwhelmed place. But it was this adversity that prompted me to seek support and helped me grow in many areas of my life.
Self-compassion is comprised of three pillars: mindfulness, self-kindness, and acknowledgment of shared humanity.
This motherhood journey, unique in its course but shared in essence by mothers everywhere, brings us to the concept of Matrescence. Introduced by Dana Raphael, this term encompasses the journey of becoming a mother. It is more than just a physical transition—it spans the emotional, spiritual, and social dimensions of our lives. Matrescence is full of joy and promise; it can also be overwhelming. But thanks to self-compassion, we can better navigate the transition to all the stages of motherhood. According to Dr. Kristin Neff, Ph.D., self-compassion is comprised of three pillars: mindfulness, self-kindness, and acknowledgment of shared humanity.
Mindfulness
When we are mindful, we are present and attuned to our internal state and surroundings. We moms can step into the present moment by practicing mindful breathing or simple body awareness—or, if time allows, by doing yoga or spending time in nature. Even daily tasks, such as doing laundry or making meals, can become mindful moments when we fully engage our senses.
By linking mindfulness with our daily rhythms, we can re-center ourselves. And when we choose to practice it consistently, mindfulness can reveal the underlying beauty in adversity.
Our nervous system plays a pivotal role in mindfulness, too. For us moms who find it difficult to be present, chiropractic care can be most beneficial. It can help the nervous system become more adaptable and foster an environment where presence is more naturally achieved.
Self-Kindness
We will inevitably encounter challenges along the motherhood way. In these moments, it helps to be gentle, treating ourselves with the warmth and kindness we would extend to a dear friend.
Acknowledgment of Shared Humanity
It’s helpful to realize that struggles and hardships are universal, and that at our core, we all share a basic goodness. Regularly connecting with other moms and undertaking practices like the Loving Kindness Meditation, which I’ll introduce you to later in this article, help deepen this sense of shared experience. We are not alone.
As I prepared for my next pregnancy, I decided to invite more self-compassion into my life. Drawing inspiration from Ina May Gaskin’s books, I envisioned a beautiful birth. I made a conscious effort to slow down, nurture myself, and bask in the present moment during my pregnancy. When the time came to give birth, I trusted and allowed my body’s wisdom to take over. My labor was a profound experience that spanned a day and a half, but it was also void of discomfort, and only brief pressure as I went through transition. In a moment that can only be described as healing, blissful, and powerful, I brought my daughter into the world.
Years later, another chapter of motherhood pushed my resilience to its limits, as one of my children underwent—and is still undergoing—a lengthy and challenging healing process. It required me to lean even more into my self-care and my community. In short, practicing self-compassion became not just useful, but also essential.
When we embrace self-compassion in challenging moments, we stimulate the release of oxytocin. This “love hormone” enhances bonding and equips us with greater resilience against stress. Tara Brach, Ph.D., utilizes an approach called RAIN to help us find the way to self-compassion.
We need to:
- Recognize our emotions and bodily sensations.
- Allow them to be, without judgment.
- Investigate their nature.
- Nurture ourselves with kindness and understanding.
The RAIN approach helps us foster inner harmony. Within this sanctuary of self-acceptance, we discover fertile ground for personal growth. RAIN reconnects us with the present moment, where we can hear our inner wisdom. It empowers us to discern our needs and take proactive steps toward fulfilling them.
RAIN also bestows another blessing on us. When we nurture our own well-being, our compassion naturally extends to our family, our friends, and our community, too.
Each addition to the family opens a new chapter in the journey of Matrescence. As families grow, we mothers navigate joys and challenges that are both familiar and novel. And given the complexity of parenthood at times, moments of self-doubt, frustration, and criticism can overshadow our loving intentions.
We might also find ourselves resisting our current realities, yearning for an imagined future where things are easier or more manageable.
In these moments, we might lose our cool, or seek solace and escape from our digital devices. We might also find ourselves resisting our current realities, yearning for an imagined future where things are easier or more manageable.
Yet, deep within, many of us hold a profound aspiration: to grow, to remain present and regulated, and to hold plenty of compassionate space. We aim not to just cope, but to thrive, grounding ourselves in a state of coherence and wholeness.
Which brings us to another practice that cultivates self-compassion: the Loving Kindness Meditation. It encapsulates the essence of mindfulness, self-kindness, and shared humanity, and it asks us to extend good wishes and grace:
Loving Kindness Meditation
For Yourself: “May I be safe, healthy, happy, and live with ease.”
For a Loved One: “May you be safe, healthy, happy, and live with ease.”
For Someone Neutral: Extend the same wishes.
For a Challenging Person: Extend the same wishes, which are a testament to our shared journey and humanity.
For All Beings: “May all beings be safe, healthy, happy, and live with ease.”
It takes only a few minutes to complete this exercise, in a quiet, comfortable place. Just relax, close your eyes, and recite the meditation. You will feel your heart open, your mind calmed, and your inner spirit warmed by love and kindness.
In my decade as a mother, self-compassion has nudged me toward prioritizing my well-being and has inspired choices that promote holistic health. I choose to eat nourishing meals, get ample rest and exercise, practice meditation, seek the support of my communities, and embrace chiropractic care . My goal isn’t to be a self-compassion perfectionist, but to be ever more aware of my well-being and to use my nurturing practices as consistently as I can.
Self-compassion has made the difference in my journey as a mother, and I know it can do the same for mothers everywhere. It is a powerful tool to help us moms recognize our needs and seek essential support for our well-being.
When we choose to lean into wellness and nourish ourselves, the motherhood journey becomes less about surviving and more about thriving. It’s in this nourished state that we truly experience the magic and wonder of motherhood.
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A Journey of Healing and Growth
Sacred Mothering: how to be a soulful mother on a spiritual path
For a long time I’ve lived two separate lives – a life of an unfolding spiritual journey and purpose and a life as an everyday mother, partner and housewife. The first one happens mostly within me and I get to share it here with you, my readers and online friends, but I don’t express much outwardly in my day-to-day doings. The second life happens in the hours when I’m not working on myself or writing down my discoveries and realisations – it happens when I pick up my son from kindergarten and we spend the afternoons together outside or at home.
Those two lives sometimes clash with each other and cause a deep sense of conflict within me. It is not that I am a different person, it is more that I find it really hard to implement what I’ve learned along my journey within my role as a mother .
My son continuously stands as a mirror and a teacher for me although sometimes I feel like a terrible student. I have recognised our relationship as a karmic one and we both have a lot to learn from each other and from being in such a close-tight relationship with each other. Mothering him is one of the greatest challenges in my life and certainly propels me to learn, grow and evolve although I often feel caught off-guard.
I’ve asked myself a hundreds of times, how could I improve our relationship and perhaps enjoy it more? How could I be more open, receptive and available for him? How can I continue on my spiritual path as an awakening feminine leader and at the same time tend to my son’s needs in a way that he’s content and happy with his life?
These are no easy questions and more likely than not it will take most of my lifetime to work out the answers. But that is OK because this is part of my spiritual journey. Hence I came up with the concept of Spiritual Mothering and Sacred Motherhood .
I would like to unify those two lives into one whole one. I’d like to continue on my journey but rather than learning from others mainly through inner reflection, I’d like to learn from my everyday life as a mother , partner and a person of this world. I’ve had to walk the inner path and it has brought me many revelations without which I wouldn’t go far now. But I’m noticing the need to shift from spending time in quiet self-observation to coming out of my shell and bringing out and embodying what I’ve learned in a more present way.
Being a mother is a big part of my life and so is my spiritual development. I cannot separate the two any longer, the pressure and conflict is too burdensome. Hence you will read more about my observations on being a mother on a spiritual path – a woman who tends to her spiritual practices as well as to her child’s and family’s needs without compromising her relationship with herself too.
Sounds like a lot, ha? My comfort comes from the knowing that our ancient mothers have done this before me. I trust that this is our innate nature. By coming back to our roots and accessing the inner knowledge that we all have, we will remember how to be soulful mothers .
I believe that as modern women we desperately need this knowledge and the memories of our ancient mothers so that we could raise our children mindfully with love and respect without disconnecting from our true selves , femininity and spirituality.
And we very well may change our world and the lives of our children for the better.
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Vilina Christoph
Vilina Christoph is a spiritual writer and uses the power of words to help others on their journey of healing and recovery. She distills challenging life experiences into meaningful lessons and practical wisdom. She believes that finding our voices and speaking our truth empowers us to transform our lives and reach long-lasting fulfillment.
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How to be a “spiritual mother” whether you have kids or not
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The world needs women in this role just as much as it needs biological mothers.
When I think of mothers, many women come to mind. I first think of my mom, who fostered a love of reading and writing in my life. My grandma taught me to play piano and sew a dress. The women at the church I grew up in always make sure to say hello when I’m back home for the holidays and my friend’s mom had the cool snacks and sometimes let us stay up past our bedtime during sleepovers. In my life today, religious sisters are showing me what it means to love Jesus with my whole heart.
While some of these women are called moms by children they gave birth to or raised, others who have profoundly taught me the depth and beauty of motherhood never raised any children of their own. And some did raise their own kids, but their motherhood went beyond their own home. They are all spiritual mothers in my life — women who have loved me and invested in my story, nurturing my heart and soul.
When it comes to my own story, spiritual motherhood can feel like a consolation prize. Although I’m biologically a mother to Marion, our son, I don’t hold him in my arms. Instead, he’s in Heaven, interceding for me and his father (and giving us some incredible incentive on our journey to our heavenly home). Being a mom to a little saint wasn’t something I expected in my story. And secondary infertility wasn’t something I had planned for, either.
Motherhood doesn’t always look like what you thought it would.
Do you believe God has called you to marriage, but you haven’t found the right person to marry yet? Do you have a little saint in heaven, too? Does the experience of infertility weigh heavy on your heart? Does being a mom to little ones not quite look like what you had dreamed of? Is Christ calling you to be His bride alone, asking you to sacrifice children for a vocation to a religious or consecrated life?
If any of these situations resonate, it may feel like the call to spiritual motherhood is a second-rate motherhood. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Archbishop Fulton Sheen once wrote that “Every woman in the world was made to be a mother either physically or spiritually.”
In one of my favorite pieces of writing from St. John Paul II’s papacy, Letter to Women , he writes that spiritual motherhood has “inestimable value for the development of individuals and the future of society.” He also thanks women for their generosity, a willingness to give themselves to others — especially the most weak and defenseless.
Here are six concrete things you can do to explore the call to spiritual maternity and realize that it isn’t a consolation prize — it’s a incredible calling from the Father. The world needs it!
1. Don’t wait for little ones to start using your maternal gifts
“If motherhood was more about what’s in your heart than what’s in your womb, I needed to stop waiting for a baby to use my maternal gifts,” writes Colleen Carroll Campbell, author of My Sisters the Saints . “I needed to start recognizing the opportunities I already had to nurture growth in others, defend the vulnerable, and make the world a more loving, humane place.”
If we’re called to mirror Christ’s love to the weak and defenseless in our lives, this isn’t confined to physical motherhood. In her book, Campbell writes about how her experience caring for her father during his struggle with Alzheimer’s gave her an opportunity to live out her spiritual maternity.
What areas of your life are an invitation for you to dive deeper into spiritual maternity? This may come in the form of praying for others, cherishing them like daughters and sons. Maybe Christ is calling you to come alongside someone in your life and walk the journey to heaven with them. Perhaps the Lord wants to transform the cross you’re carrying into a bridge to His heart for others in your life.
Similar to the uniqueness of living out the feminine genius, spiritual motherhood looks different in the life of every woman. “In the life of consecrated women, for example, who live according to the charism and the rules of the various apostolic Institutes, it can express itself as concern for people, especially the most needy: the sick, the handicapped, the abandoned, orphans, the elderly, children, young people, the imprisoned and, in general, people on the edges of society,” John Paul II writes in his apostolic letter Mulieris Dignitatem .
2. Mentor young people in your life
Spiritual motherhood isn’t the same as biological motherhood, and it’s not meant to take over the role of biological mothers. Instead, it’s an opportunity to invest in the lives of those around you, especially young people in your life. You can be a source of encouragement, education, and wisdom. Your presence in the lives of kids and young adults in your life can help them realize their worth and dignity as children of God.
“I am called to love the young teen at a conference who tells me he is entering the seminary or some ‘kids’ the Lord sends me for just a moment,” reflects Sister M. Consolata, FSGM . “Whether it’s a classroom full of fifth graders I speak to for half an hour or the young woman discerning a vocation to religious life who I’m sent to accompany on a journey for several years. In all of the people Jesus sends me I encounter a piece of His Heart. This is the gift of spiritual motherhood.”
3. Tap into the power of intercessory prayer
Just as physical motherhood offers opportunities to nourish the bodies and minds of children, spiritual motherhood offers a chance to nourish the souls of others. Your spiritual maternity allows you to be sensitive to the spiritual needs of those you encounter. As a spiritual mother, you can offer their needs and prayer requests to the Lord.
One particular way of living out your spiritual motherhood is interceding for the souls of priests and the Church. “The vocation to be a spiritual mother for priests is largely unknown, scarcely understood and consequently, rarely lived, notwithstanding its fundamental importance. It is a vocation that is frequently hidden, invisible to the naked eye, but meant to transmit spiritual life,” reads a 2007 document from the Vatican’s Congregation for the Clergy.
4. Develop a relationship with your godchildren
If you’re a godmother to children in your life, this relationship offers a unique opportunity for spiritual motherhood. Your role in their life as their godmother is to pass on the Catholic faith to them, and assist their parents with this important, beautiful task. Spend time with your godchildren (even if it’s on a phone or video call!) regularly. Send them a card on the anniversary of their baptism, or on the feast of their patron saint. But most importantly, pray for your godchildren. You can even offer an adoration hour up for their intentions.
“I have hundreds of children. A few godchildren, but mostly spiritual children, students I’ve taught and teens I’ve spoken with at retreats or camps or talks,” writes Meg Hunter-Kilmer . “The relationship I have with these kids of mine is sometimes just a few hours long and sometimes lasts for years and changes us both. I call them my kids because I am their mother – one of many mothers they have, God willing. I call them my kids even when they’re 25, because when I say that I don’t mean that they’re children. I mean that they’re mine.”
5. Be an engaged and involved aunt
Growing up, I loved spending time at my grandparents because it meant I was able to see my aunts. Do your siblings have little kids running around calling you “aunt”? Take time to be an engaged and involved aunt to your nieces and nephews. Swing by the house for dinners, celebrate birthdays, and keep up to date on the activities the kids are enjoying.
No nieces or nephews yet? “Aunts and uncles don’t necessarily have to be related to be influential,” writes Monica Leftwich . “Over many years, I’ve taken on the role of ‘aunt’ to several children I’m not related to. When I do chat with them, these beautiful little girls recall the fun times they had with ‘Miss Monica.'” Maybe there’s a family who goes to your parish who would love to have your help with their little ones at Mass. Don’t be afraid to get to know families with kids and offer your help — it can be a huge blessing to not feel alone as a parent raising little souls!
6. Entrust your spiritual maternity to Mary
“Everywhere the need exists for maternal sympathy and help, and thus we are able to recapitulate in the one word motherliness that which we have developed as the characteristic value of woman,” writes St. Edith Stein. But the maternity Edith wrote about isn’t just found in physical motherhood. “The motherliness must be that which does not remain within the narrow circle of blood relations or of personal friends; but in accordance with the model of the Mother of Mercy,” she continues. “It must have its root in universal divine love for all who are there, belabored and burdened.”
It is the Blessed Mother who gives us an example of what spiritual maternity looks like in ordinary, daily life. At the foot of the cross, Mary accepts the mission to be the spiritual mother to us all. It is for this reason that St. Pope John Paul II encourages us to trust Mary along our journey to her son. “Entrustment is the only response adequate to the love of a person, in particular to the love of a mother.”
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The Profound Influence of Spiritual Mothers and Fathers
These mentors and role models influence faith now and for generations to come..
June 13, 2022
Did you remember to make much of Mother’s Day during the month of May? Moms and grandmas warrant significant attention all year long but particularly on the day set aside each year to honor them. This is in no way meant to disparage mothers or Mother’s Day in any way, but it does seem anecdotally to get a little more gravitas than Father’s Day. Perhaps it’s because kids are still in school during May and teachers go out of their way to equip young children with all the hand-made handprint crafts to take home and share.
In terms of annual emphasis, spending on Mother’s Day trends towards $25 billion as opposed to $16 billion on Father’s Day. All comparisons aside, have you ever considered that it’s not just moms and dads who are being celebrated on their respective days? Rather than move completely past moms to shift our focus entirely to dads, what if we considered spiritual parents rather than biological mothers and fathers for a moment? There is an easy opportunity afforded to us in Acts 12.
Setting the stage, this interaction happens after the Apostle Peter’s miraculous escape from prison. Herod has arrested several leaders in the church, followers of the Way. James, John’s brother was put to death. Because the Jewish rabble found this favorable, Herod imprisoned Peter as well. As the church huddled up in homes and prayed for Peter, an angel of the Lord visited him, removed his chains, and led him out. Now free, he goes to the family home of his companion Mark. Here’s what happened:
When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer the door. When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!” Acts 12:12-14
Mark, recognized as Peter’s companion, is unquestionably named by the early 1st and 2nd century church fathers to be the gospel writer.
Bishop Papias of Hierapolis claimed that Mark wrote his Gospel in Rome, ascribing the preaching of Peter.
Justin Martyr, writing in 150 AD, referred to the gospel of Mark as the memoirs of Peter.
Ireneus, writing in 185 AD, referred to Mark as the disciple and interpreter of Peter.
Peter, himself, accounted for the mentorship in his own epistle, referring to Mark as his own son.
She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark. 1 Peter 5:13
Sidenote: Don’t get bogged down by any confusion regarding “she who is in Babylon.” Think of “she” as the church of faithful believers and “Babylon” as a codename for Rome. Both were really rough and wicked empires, so the correlation stands.
Did you read 1 Peter 5:13 and see the “son” part? There it is, a possibly ill-timed, indication of why this article features the idea of fatherhood. Was Peter offering up a twisty soap-opera surprise or Star Wars sized reveal? Was he “really” John Mark’s dad? Certainly not. The Greek word Peter used is definitely that of biological sonship but was also widely used to refer to anyone who depended on another or lived as their pupil or follower. As a spiritual son, Mark was a coheir in Christ. As the author of Peter’s gospel, Mark passed on to us the legacy entrusted to him.
That’s the remarkable thing about sonship, whether it be biological or simply relational. Sons receive. Sons pass. As parents, our biological kids are certainly on the receiving end of the equation. They gain our character traits, attributes, ideals, and eventually our inheritances. They also take on our sinful patterns and systemic problems, too. Mentorship and those who learn from us isn’t much different. Our spiritual sons and daughters are always gleaning and receiving and ultimately one day transmitting whatever it is they take from us.
Paul wrote so clearly, “ Follow me as I follow Christ ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). The implication is that, as Paul sought hard to know and follow Jesus, anyone in his footsteps would both intentionally and inadvertently be moving closer to Christ.
Don’t consider only adoptive or biological children you may have or desire. Who are your spiritual children and are they moving closer to Jesus simply because of their proximity to you?
"Our spiritual sons and daughters are always gleaning and receiving and ultimately one day transmitting whatever it is they take from us. … Who are your spiritual children and are they moving closer to Jesus simply because of their proximity to you?" Nic Allen
Go back to Acts. Although this is likely her only mention in Scripture (Mary seems to have been a pretty popular name according to the biblical record, though — lots of Mary’s to keep straight), a lot can be gleaned from this simple passage. Plus, it is May after all. And she’s listed as a mother.
Being the mother of John Mark, she was likely the sister or aunt of Barnabas who was declared to be Mark’s cousin [sometimes interchangeably in antiquity his uncle] as referenced by Colossians 4:10. Barnabas was known as the “son of encouragement.” Fun fact about him: He donated the proceeds from a field he sold in Acts 4. He was a landowner, indicating wealth. According to this passage, Mary was a homeowner and had a servant girl, also indicating prosperity. The fact that Peter thought to go to her home, immediately after his miraculous release, meant that she was also known for hospitality and generosity.
The fact that Christian leaders were gathered in her home praying indicated her own faith as well. This faith would have been passed on to and entrusted into her son John Mark, who now followed along with and studied under Peter. Oh, the honor to have been the mom of a young man so closely connected to the core of apostles and founders of their faith-filled church.
There is certainly more happening in the life of young Mark than we realize. Consider his mom. Consider his cousin. Consider his mentor. Consider even who his other friends and associates were, being mentioned as a traveling partner of Paul as well. So far, we’re up a minimum of four. Add Silas and possibly Timothy. Now we have six. Line up the names in the remainder of Acts and even Romans 16. There really is no counting the number of people investing in Mark’s life as a believer.
Are you a mom or dad of kids living at home? Your kids need you, but they need more than you. Who is your son’s Peter? Who is his Barnabas? Who is his Paul? Who is your daughter’s Mary or Phoebe or Lydia?
Are you a faithful believer seeking to follow Jesus? Who are your spiritual sons and daughters? Who is your Mark or your Timothy? Who is your Rhoda?
Whether you are a parent or not, you are making an investment and leaving a legacy. Your memoir is the person you mentor, whether they write anything down or not. Who is your son in the faith? Who is your daughter in Christlikeness? What are you leaving them that will impact others in an equal or, better yet, greater measure of faith for generations to come?
Nic Allen resides in Nashville, Tenn., and pastors the Nashville Campus of Rolling Hills Community Church. He and his wife Susan have been married for 21 years and have three children, ages 9, 14, and 15.
Kingdom Men Rising speaks truth into a poorly defined and disoriented culture about the purpose and future of masculinity from a biblical perspective. In this Bible study, you will wrestle honestly with the unique questions and circumstances you face today and explore your own stories to reveal the true expression of masculinity — God’s intent.
Read a free sample .
Discover how the Holy Spirit’s presence and power transform how you lead and love your kids. You’ll be invited to wrestle through the question, Do I really know how to parent in the power of the Holy Spirit, or have I settled for parenting in my own power?
- Aug 9, 2023
Embracing the Spiritual Motherhood: A Journey of Prayer and Love
Updated: Sep 6, 2023
In the quiet corners of the Catholic community, a profound and often hidden bond is formed between lay women and the religious they spiritually adopt. This unique connection, known as the Spiritual Motherhood of Priests within the Regnum Christi and Consecrated Women of Regnum Christi, transcends the boundaries of time and distance to nurture the spiritual growth of religious and strengthen the fabric of the Church. In this article, we explore the essence of this sacred calling and hear from those who have embarked on this heartfelt journey.
Understanding Spiritual Motherhood
Spiritual Motherhood is a beautiful expression of love and devotion that finds its roots in the essence of motherhood itself. Lay women, called spiritual mothers, take on the role of nurturing and supporting priests & religious through their prayers, sacrifices, and companionship. Just as a biological mother cares for her children, spiritual mothers offer their spiritual children – priests and consecrated women – the sustenance they need to navigate the challenges of their vocation and ministry.
Spiritual Adoption: A Profound Connection
Central to the concept of Spiritual Motherhood of Priests is the idea of spiritual adoption. This practice involves lay women committing to adopt a priest, offering their daily prayers, sacrifices, and intentions for his spiritual well-being, growth, and ministry. This bond goes beyond the physical realm, connecting souls through a shared commitment to holiness and the betterment of the Church.
The Essence of a Spiritual Mother in the Church
The concept of a spiritual mother in the Church extends beyond just the Spiritual Motherhood of Priests and Religious. A spiritual mother embodies the qualities of love, guidance, and care that we associate with motherhood. Whether it's biological mothers nurturing their children, consecrated religious women leading their communities, or laywomen embracing priests as spiritual sons, the role of a spiritual mother is a testament to the universal call of love and support within the Body of Christ.
Nadia's Testimony: A Heartfelt Connection
"It's funny; I've been praying for priests and religious since 1983. So when the Lord placed this call on my heart, I thought, 'Well, Lord, I do pray for them.' I didn't quite get it at first. I mean, they're all important. But it's different because they become like one of my own children. It's like God engraves their names into my heart, and they become a part of my spiritual life; they occupy a special place. I feel so privileged, thankful, and grateful to God for placing this call on my heart to be a Spiritual Mother for both my priest son and daughter." said Nadia, "Privileged because God gave me the opportunity to adopt one of His priests. Without them, we have no Sacraments. They really need our prayers and sacrifices. Our Heavenly Mother holds them very close to her heart. Grateful because of the great mission God has called me to, and thankful because I feel I receive so much more than anything I am giving them."
Johanne's Testimony: A Profound Connection to the Sacramental Order of Priesthood
"I am still flying high. First the mass, then the ceremony, the music, the inspiring words of Fr. Pierre, it was a holy morning. To me to live my life as a spiritual mother is a vocation, praying for my priest-son, for my consecrated daughter makes me a participant in the sacramental order of Priesthood of the Church. It activates the Kingdom priesthood that was given to me as a gift at Baptism and every day I live this gift in a concrete way." Johanne said, "There is another aspect of being a spiritual mother that is hard to put in words, it gives motherhood a whole new dimension, not just physical and emotional but spiritual, and just like physical mothers can relate to one another, spiritual mothers support one another, are linked to one another by the Holy Spirit and are guided by our own Spiritual Mother Mama Mary. We may not know personally all spiritual mothers everywhere but we know their hearts, and they know my heart. When we pray and sacrifice for our priest-son and our consecrated daughter we are never alone. May the Lord bless you and keep you always."
Virtual Witness: Cherishing the Beauty of the Morning Ceremony by Winnie Barnwell
"This morning ceremony was truly a beautiful one and in spite of the weather you had a great turnout. Father's talk captured the spirit of the occasion very well and I thought it was very nice that the Spiritual Fathers were invited to join in the picture."
The Spiritual Motherhood of Consecrated Daughters
New to our locality, the adoption of the Consecrated Women of Regnum Christi is an inspiration that emerged from an encounter with a loving Consecrated Woman of Regnum Christi. Her love for Christ and her openness and willingness to share this interior freedom with her fellow sisters in Christ during a retreat inspired the heart of one of the retreatants to pray for Consecrated women and all they do to build the kingdom of God. This seed of inspiration was shared with other women who yearned to pray for women who dedicate their lives to the Lord in building His kingdom. The Spiritual Motherhood for Consecrated Daughter was born from the hearts of these women.
The Consecrated Women of Regnum Christi is an international society of pontifical
right that has been approved by the Holy See. They compose an arm of the Regnum Christi
Federation. Their mission is to cultivate a dedicated life of deep intimacy with Jesus Christ
through the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience lived in diverse cultural communities
(home - Consecrated Women of Regnum Christi ).
Who is called to this spiritual motherhood?
The Spiritual Mothers of Consecrated Daughters , inspired by the sacred heart of Jesus
and the love for the dignity and femininity of womanhood welcomes lay adult women who
would like to spiritually adopt a consecrated daughter.
What does it mean to be a spiritual mother?
A spiritual mother is a woman who will pray for her consecrated daughter daily and will
keep this relationship within her heart for her to only know. The relationship to your consecrated daughter is spiritual in nature meaning that it is not based on human connection. If others know the identity of your daughter or if your spiritual daughter learn of you then the relationship enters the human experience of relationships. To keep this relationship at a spiritual level then anonymity and secrecy is necessary (SMOP).
You will know your daughter by name, but you will never be introduced personally. You will
build your relationship with your spiritual daughter through prayer, specifically praying for her protection and for her fruitfulness.
Nurturing Souls: Strengthening Bonds Through Spiritual Motherhood in Regnum Christi
The Spiritual Motherhood of Priests and Consecrated Women of Regnum Christi is a profound calling that bridges the spiritual and earthly realms. Through spiritual adoption, laywomen offer their prayers and sacrifices to support and nurture priests and consecrated women on their spiritual journey. This act of love and devotion not only enriches the lives of these religious but also strengthens the bond of the Church as a whole. As we heed the call to become spiritual mothers, we participate in a sacred dance of prayer and love that resonates within the heart of the Church.
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What does it mean to be a Spiritual Mother?
Being a Spiritual Mother is a supernatural way to care for souls, especially priests. It is a type of maternity that nurtures divine life in others by doing God’s will. Spiritual Motherhood is open to all Catholic women regardless of age, state of life, or vocation. “This type of motherhood is not only for mothers of families, but is just as possible for an unmarried girl, a widow, or for someone who is ill.” ( Eucharistic Adoration for the Sanctification of Priests and Spiritual Maternity, First Edition, Page 11 )
Theologically speaking, what is “Spiritual Motherhood”?
Spiritual Motherhood is a type of maternity women experience by grace, within their call to holiness, in imitation of Mary, Mother of Priests. This type of motherhood “according to the Spirit” is made possible by participating in Mary’s universal Spiritual Motherhood.
What do Spiritual Mothers ‘do’?
The practice of Spiritual Maternity is lived out in many different ways. Numerous women, both married and unmarried alike, have spent much time caring for children and people in general, whether related to them or not. Some examples of acts of spiritual motherhood can include a woman or a consecrated sister: teaching students in a classroom, walking children to the bus, cooking a meal for a priest, washing the sacred linens for Mass, cleaning the Church, etc. And although the good works of Spiritual Mothers can be expressed in many different ministries, prayer, especially within the celebration of the Eucharist, is one of the greatest ways Spiritual Maternity can bear fruit and be effective. Some prayerful recommendations for Spiritual Mothers are:
- Full and Active Participation at Mass and the offering up of Holy Communion
- Eucharistic Adoration before the Most Blessed Sacrament
- Praying the Liturgy of the Hours, especially Morning Prayer (Lauds) and Evening Prayer (Vespers)
- Praying the Holy Rosary
- Making Spiritual Communions (throughout the day)
- Offering up work and sacrifices
- Doing penance and making reparation for people’s sins
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Motherhood is a journey filled with perseverance, personal development, and unwavering love. Learn how Elizabeth, founder of StereoType Kids, has discovered the significance of letting go and the profound reservoir of fortitude within herself to get through difficult challenges. From the awe-inspiring moment of realization to confronting unforeseen hurdles with courage and bravery. Join Elizabeth as she recounts her incredible journey of her pregnancy with twins.
When Motherhood called me, it was the first step in initiating me into a constant state of growth and transformation that I can only describe as a spiritual journey. I had to face a lot of change within my body just as much as outside my body. Since I was considered a high-risk pregnancy because I was carrying twins, putting my needs first was not only essential but also required. It was the first time I was prescribed total self-care. What was this? It was so foreign that I didn’t even understand what “self-care” really meant. All I knew was my goal was to deliver healthy babies full-term, and I was determined to see that vision through. However, life had other plans, and like a rushing river, I had no choice but to bend to every twist and turn. With twins, you’re at the doctor's office twice as much, checking on progress and watching for any red flags. I was grateful for the care, but worry flooded me every time I sat in the waiting room. In many ways, I learned how to cope with my un-ease by reminding myself I had no control, and while that felt unsettling to me at times I learned to find comfort by surrendering and trusting the process. That was truly the only way through.
In those early pregnancy days, I remember panic mixed with excitement; since I had not planned on having twins, my outlook on pending motherhood completely changed. I needed to think about everything twice as much now, extending my already overwhelming need to control what I essentially had no control over. I had to wrestle my mind away from the hamster wheel of thoughts on how I could possibly prepare for motherhood. Sure, I could register for all the things, read all the books, talk to all the friends, and make plans that might work out, but again and again, I was reminded, that control was out of my hands, and it was all a practice of surrender. When I found myself spinning (which was often), I almost had to laugh at myself for trying to have it all planned out. There’s no plan, only what is.
When a routine check-up turned into an emergency c-section, my soft laid plan of surrender turned into full-fledged fear. Things were coming along so nicely; how did my plan go so arwy? As I think back now, I still feel the heaviness in my heart of all that ensued as I was rushed to a hospital bed within the blink of an eye. Within minutes, I was hooked up to so many monitors I felt like I couldn’t move for worry of anything being pulled out of place. My heart raced as I tried to focus on the positive as much as possible - “I’m going to meet my babies soon,” I said to myself. It’s interesting what the mind blocks out when deep distress sets in; I somehow managed to talk myself through one of the scariest days of my life by focusing on surrendering control. Reminding myself that I was in the best possible care and that the doctors and nurses knew exactly what to do. One of the nurses was so kind to me as I was being prepped for the cesarean. She knew I was terrified, and she looked into my teary eyes, hugged me, and said, “It’s all going to be okay.” Her words were like a soothing balm on an open sore that was pulsating and raw. I focused on her words as she gently rubbed my arm while they began the process of numbing me and covering up my abdomen with a sheet to hide the prepared on the other side. I have never felt so vulnerable in my life as I lay there on the operating table with my husband holding my hand, his eyes filling with tears, trying to hold positivity while being terrified himself. In that moment of shared vulnerability, we clung to each other's presence for comfort, as the atmosphere in the room shifted dramatically. My fears became glee when I heard my daughter Chloe’s first cry. My husband choked back tears to say, “We have a beautiful baby girl’! A small smile crossed my face as I focused on her cry while waiting for another. A little less than three minutes later, my son Jacob entered the world, and suddenly, my focus shifted from what was happening in my body to what was happening outside of my body. The delivery felt like a victory, but the marathon was really just beginning.
Although my twins were preemies, they luckily were healthy and just needed to grow more before we could bring them home. I never thought I would leave the hospital without my babies, but I found myself having to face this fact when they needed to stay in the NICU for six weeks. After being discharged and sent home, I felt lost, my arms aching to hold my newborns. I was so exhausted and depleted that going home without them, while heartbreaking, gave me a chance to grasp my new reality. I remember that first night back home, sleeping deeply and waking up the next morning unsure of what happened. Everything felt so strange, and I was sliding down a slippery slope of despair. That first morning home, I stood over my bed and decided to focus on things I could control instead of the mountain that was out of my control, so I made my bed, which felt like sweet relief. What else can I control? I took a shower, and then I fed myself a meal. Little by little I found my center again, even if it was fleeting. Again, I was continually brought back to a place of surrender and trust, and damn, was it uncomfortable.
Since embarking on the journey of motherhood, I have experienced many sleepless nights, changed miles of diapers, weathered toddler tantrums, and been inundated with countless questions. What I realized is that I have grown hand in hand with my twins, conquering one hurdle after another and uncovering the courage that resides within me. I am immensely grateful to see my children blossoming into healthy, compassionate eleven-year-olds with vibrant hearts, healthy bodies, and flourishing intellects. Motherhood has illuminated the depths of my being and allowed me to tap into a wellspring of strength that has always been there waiting to be discovered and that knowledge continues to guide me through the spiritual journey that is Motherhood.
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A Spiritual & Conscious Perspective On Pregnancy & Motherhood
“ According to ancient teachings, souls don’t just randomly reincarnate. There is a specific, divine plan. You, as parents, are a big part of the plan.” – Gurmukh, Kundalini Yoga Teacher
Congratulations mama.
If you’re reading this, you’re likely pregnant or intending to become pregnant, and that means you’re embarking on a sacred and blessed journey beyond anything you’ve experienced before.
Pregnancy is a time of many changes; it’s a time of transformation.
There are a lot of physical, mental, and emotional shifts happening even before conception.
You’ll no doubt be focused on the physical experience of what it takes to create and carry your baby inside you for the next many months.
And there’s also a lot happening in the unseen spiritual realm.
Taking on a spiritual and conscious perspective on pregnancy and motherhood can enrich your experience and bring deeper meaning to your journey.
What is spirituality?
“Spirituality is recognizing and celebrating that we are all inextricably connected to each other by a power greater than all of us, and that our connection to that power and to one another is grounded in love and compassion. Practicing spirituality brings a sense of perspective, meaning, and purpose to our lives.” – Brene Brown, researcher & author
Spirituality is independent of the religion, creed, or denomination you resonate with.
It’s beyond dogma and doctrine.
Spirituality is about your relationship with your own life force and recognizing that the vital energy giving you life also connects you to a higher power or force.
A spiritual perspective on your pregnancy is about acknowledging the bigger picture beyond the physical story of a fertilized egg multiplying cells inside you to create a human body.
It’s about being aware that along with this human body you’re creating also comes a spirit that is connected to your own spirit.
Gestation isn’t just about your baby
We call gestation the time of development from conception to birth.
During this time, your baby is evolving and growing inside you.
And there’s another invisible gestation taking place – the development of you as Mother, as Creator, and as Nurturer.
Pregnancy is the process by which “I” turns into “we.”
It’s your right of passage into motherhood.
Pregnancy as a living offering
What if there’s a bigger game at play here, and on a soul or spiritual level, your baby chose you, and you chose them?
That would also mean that your soul chose your parents, too.
What if souls make agreements and enter into “contracts” with one another to help each other on this human plane?
To learn lessons that can expand our human existence into higher spheres of awareness and consciousness?
“The womb is where another human being, through her compassion and knowingness, can help change the destiny or facilitate or uplift the destiny, of that soul inside her. This is our gift on the planet as women. This is the way we can change the world and bring more peace to this planet.” – Gurmukh
How we choose to live during these months of gestation can be an offering to elevate the soul coming through us.
Gurmukh, renowned Kundalini yoga teacher and author of “ Bountiful, Beautiful, Blissful, ” teaches that we as mothers can enhance our child’s earthly experience by the choices we make during their time in our womb.
This is the privilege of motherhood.
Pregnancy as an invitation to heal the mother wound
Many of us have didn’t have this experience as we ourselves gestated inside our mothers.
If you’re one of the many souls that have felt disconnected, neglected, or wounded by your mother, then this privilege is an even bigger invitation to break the chains of trauma, pain, and suffering that you’ve had to go through.
This is your chance to balance out the karmic cycle in your own lineage.
What will you do with this sacred time you’re being blessed with?
Will you opt for the highest, most elevated choices?
Will you seek higher states of being and feeling?
Will you choose to do the crucial inner work?
Know that invisible forces of love support you.
There’s a warrior inside you that can carry you through.
There’s a wisdom within you to guide you home.
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7 Characteristics of a Godly Mother | The Journey of Motherhood
Nothing shapes a woman’s character like the journey of motherhood. A godly mother is a woman who allows God to sanctify, purify, love, redeem, and shape her in life’s circumstances.
- The journey of motherhood—becoming a godly mother—doesn’t start when you give birth or adopt a child. It begins with knowing your identity in Jesus.
The enemy has uniquely designed arrows for mothers. They are darts of comparison, worry, criticism, weariness.
Resting in your identity in Christ gives you strength and perspective to step into your role as a godly mother. It equips you to plant seeds of faith in your children so they will come to know Jesus .
7 Characteristics of a Godly Mother
1. a godly mother seeks to stay grounded in her identity.
You’ve been through many life-changing treks: a journey of faith, growing from a girl to a woman, and the adventure of becoming a mother. You have received many messages about who you are in your lifetime. But no banner placed over your head speaks truth like the banner of the Lord.
When the world says you are only a mom, wife, daughter, sister, or gives you a certain job title, it is your opportunity to step into who God says you are.
- Psalm 60:4-5 says, “You have given a banner to those who fear You, that it may be displayed because of the truth. That Your beloved may be delivered, save with Your right hand, and hear me.”
- James 2:23 says, “And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.’ And he was called the friend of God.”
- John 14:17-18 says , “… the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.”
Pause for a moment and reflect on who God says you are. You are strong, beloved, delivered, counted as righteous, and not alone on this journey of motherhood.
2. A Godly Mother Leans on God’s Word
As a godly mother, you are steadfast in your faith and lean on God’s word. This equips you to direct your children to Jesus and the Word rather than taking the bait from the enemy who says you should have all the answers. This characteristic also helps you prepare your feet with peace and lead by example when your children are anything but peaceful.
- Psalm 26:12 says , “My foot stands in an even place; in the congregations I will bless the Lord.”
- Ephesians 6:14-15 says , “Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace…”
- Isaiah 26:3 says, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.”
As a mom, you know every day is filled with new challenges and new mercies. The enemy wants to keep you from leaning on God’s Word during the challenges.
Know where your help comes from (Psalm 121:2-4) and give thanks.
3. A Godly Mother Let’s Go of Perfection and Leans on Jesus’ Perfect Work
As a mom, you experience frustrations and disappointments. You make mistakes. But rather than allowing those moments to define you or push you towards insecurity and comparisons, you humbly come before God and ask Him for His strength.
- Philippians 4:13 says , “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
- Second Corinthians 19:9 says , “And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
- Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
As a godly mother, you trust that God won’t waste a moment. You trust in His redeeming love rather than your efforts of perfection. When you make a mistake, you don’t let perfectionism rob you of your joy or distract you from what you are called to do.
Lean on Jesus’ saving grace today.
4. A Godly Mother Knows She Needs Community
You’ve heard it said, “It takes a village to raise a child.” There is truth in this statement. Moms need community. And as a godly mother, you know the importance of doing life with others . It is in community you find encouragement, prayer, and people who will speak truth to you during the journey of motherhood.
- Proverbs 28:13 says , “He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
- Proverbs 27:17 says , “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.”
- First John 1:7 says , “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.”
As a mom, you need authentic connections where you can confess your struggles and be held accountable.
Welcome truth because those doing life with you have a heart for you and your family.
5. A Godly Mother Speaks Truth
As a godly mother, you know your words have power. They have the power to build up or tear down. As a godly mother, you choose your words wisely and use them to build others up, especially your friends and family.
- Proverbs 31:26 says , “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.”
- Colossians 3:16-17 says , “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
- Ephesians 4:29 says, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.”
The enemy wants to twist moms' words and turn them into complaining, gossip, or criticism. Godly mothers know to be aware of this.
Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the words to speak to others.
6. A Godly Mother Encourages Children to Seek Jesus
The older your children get, the more you run them to and from soccer practice, guitar lessons, and after-school clubs. As a godly mother, you can see how these activities fill their days and minds. Yet, you direct their attention to Jesus through it all. You show them their identities aren’t in what they do but who they are in Christ.
- Psalm 127:3-4 says , “ Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrow in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth.”
- Proverbs 22:6 says , “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
- Proverbs 29:17 says , “Correct your son, and he will give you rest; yes, he will give delight to your soul.”
Godly mothers seize moments in the car to talk about where Jesus shows up in your child’s busy day. You use life as an object lesson to point your kids to Jesus.
7. A Godly Mother Loves the Lord Above All Else
This seems obvious, but what does this look like practically? As a godly mother, you will be asked to do many things and serve in many ways. While service is critical to your spiritual growth, you must always seek the Lord first. Every time you say “yes” to one thing, you say “no” to something else. As a godly mother, there will be times you have to say “no” to one thing so you can say “yes” to God.
- Matthew 6:33 says, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
- Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
- Psalm 27:11 says , “Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies.”
Remember, Jesus said that the greatest commandment is “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37). Allow Him to rule in your heart. He will bring peace about the “yeses” you give (Colossians 3:15) .
How the Enemy Attacks Godly Mothers
Be Critical
The enemy thrives on hooking you into the lie that criticism will grow your children. Criticism is a product of fear, but God didn’t give you a spirit of fear. He actually gives you the power to break it off. The enemy doesn’t want you to know you have authority in Christ to surrender and resist the lie. This causes Satan to flee.
A major move of the enemy is to overextend you. If Satan can get you feeling like you need to do more, he’s got you held down by a full schedule. Moving through the journey of motherhood is similar to how you start. You rest in your identity in Christ, not in what you do. He will direct your path. Remember, His burden is light.
Satan lies and tells you how parenting, operating in your call, and serving should look. He fails to mention that God has made you for a unique purpose. You are part of the Body of Christ, and your gifting and service won’t look the same as someone else’s. There is freedom in who God has called you to be.
In Summary
Standing in your identity in Christ is essential in your motherhood journey. When you know who you belong to, you will…
- Be able to identify lies from the enemy
- Be wise and speak truth
- Set the Lord to rule in your heart
Characteristics of a godly mother are shaped through experiences and over time. God doesn’t expect perfection. He invites you to join Him on the journey. And as a result, He will bring about who you were meant to be through the process of sanctification. He will help you to raise up the next generation of Christ-followers.
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“How is Your Soul?” A Reflection on Spiritual Motherhood
“Spiritual motherhood, what in the world is that?”
Spiritual motherhood is a topic that more people are becoming aware of within the Catholic Church. Around the United States, retreats and conferences include this subject and new groups are forming to implement its practices. Spiritual motherhood is about caring and self-giving. It is other-focused. Recessed in the nooks and crannies of our daily lives, if we open our eyes, we discover people who need spiritual nurturing, affirmation, and guidance, and don’t receive it. This is spiritual motherhood, and it isn’t only for a biological mothers.
We meet people every day. At the store. At work. At the doctor’s office. With our own families. Sad to say, we often barely skim the surface in these relationships. We are either too tired, or too busy, or too indifferent. Consequently, there are so many things we might not notice about others. And that’s a shame because from time to time all of us need other people’s advice, assistance, and encouragement. Many keep their confusion and indecision or lack of knowledge of God and the things of God hidden.
“How is your soul? Is it taking little steps toward heaven or is it flying there?”
These are the words of Mother Luisita, foundress of the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles – a woman who knew well and lived the meaning of the words, “spiritual motherhood.” This is a quote of a spiritual mother. It asks about higher things. It says, “Remember, for greater things you were born.” It opens the avenue for spiritual conversations which lead to spiritual growth.
Spiritual motherhood is about nurturing life. It is about helping another grow and develop into the person that God desires them to become. During the sacrament of Baptism, the godmother promises just that. She promises to nurture her godchild and companion him or her along life’s journey, with love, understanding and spiritual guidance.
Part of what is known as the “feminine genius” is a certain empathy and inherent compassion. Women can see the deeper issues even when the exterior façade reveals okay-ness. We can, as appropriate, bring peace and discernment to others and confidence as well. These natural gifts can be fueled by supernatural grace to bring about peace and joy to countless souls.
One of the ways women religious live their consecrated life to the fullest is through spiritual motherhood. When you ask sisters and nuns what drew them to the convent, to the cloister, many will respond with some variation of the the idea that they recognized that God had created their heart for MORE. The world sees what the religious woman gives up…marriage to one man, a family of her own children. The religious woman sees what she receives, Christ as her spouse, and all the peoples of the world as her children. Marriage to Christ did not free her from a family but for His family.
Sisters throughout history have mothered countless souls in classrooms, in shelters and orphanages, at sickbeds, in the simple events of daily living, and in the profoundest moments of human existence including the moment of death. Religious women do this through their presence and most importantly through their life of prayer and sacrifice. A cloistered nun mothers souls just as surely as her active counterpart in the classroom or hospital.
There is a movement today which is asking all women, whether single, married, or in the consecrated life, to consider themselves as spiritual mothers, especially for priests. You can learn more about spiritual maternity by clicking here. This beautiful movement is growing rapidly. It is greatly needed in today’s world.
In 2007, Vatican’s Congregation for the Clergy issued the document, “Eucharistic Adoration for the Sanctification of Priests and Spiritual Motherhood.” A quote from it reads, “The vocation to be a spiritual mother for priests is largely unknown scarcely understood and, consequently, rarely lived, notwithstanding its fundamental importance. It is a vocation that is frequently hidden, invisible to the naked eye, but meant to transmit spiritual life. You can read more of the Church’s thoughts on spiritual motherhood in that document by clicking here.
During this month of Our Lady, let us remember our spiritual motherhood. The souls of many people need much nurturing. By participating in Mary’s spiritual motherhood, we can help souls live the “abundant life” that Christ is inviting them to.
May 12, 2014 | Religious Life
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Family Response to Vocations | Sr. Gloria Therese
My parents come from different faith backgrounds, but they both had the same joyful openness to my vocation, they understood that my heart was with the California Carmelites! My Catholic father’s mother always wanted a religious in the family, so Dad in his own quiet way was pretty proud to see that his daughter had a vocation to religious life.
Authenticity – Embracing who we are, exactly how God made us
Authenticity. First of all, what is it? The following words or phrases are often synonymously used with authenticity: genuineness, trustworthy, true, real, honesty…
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50 Reflective Journal Prompts to Embrace Motherhood
Motherhood is a journey filled with moments of joy, challenges, laughter, and learning. Each day brings new experiences that shape you as a mother and an individual. Keeping a journal during this time can be a profoundly enriching practice, allowing you to capture memories, reflect on your parenting experiences, and express your thoughts and emotions. Whether you’re a new mom or have been on this path for years, journaling offers a unique opportunity to pause and reflect on your role as a mother.
Journal writing not only preserves precious moments that you’ll cherish forever, but it also helps you navigate the complex feelings that come with motherhood. It can be a therapeutic tool, helping you to manage stress and find clarity in the hectic world of parenting. Additionally, your journal can become a valuable legacy—a collection of stories and wisdom to pass down to your children and future generations.
This collection of 50 journal prompts is designed to guide you through writing about your life as a mother. These prompts are intended to inspire reflection on both the big and small moments, the challenges and triumphs, and everything in between. They cater to a wide range of experiences and emotions, making it easy for you to start writing, regardless of your mood or the time you have available.
Understanding Motherhood
Motherhood is one of the most profound and transformative experiences in a woman’s life. It encompasses the joys, challenges, responsibilities, and emotional rollercoaster that come with raising a child. This journey is unique to each mother, shaped by personal experiences, cultural expectations, and individual dreams. In this exploration of motherhood, we’ll delve into what it means to be a mother, the different stages of motherhood, and how it affects a woman’s identity.
What is Motherhood?
Motherhood refers to the state or experience of having and raising a child. This role involves more than just biological reproduction; it encompasses the nurturing, educating, and emotional bonding that are vital to the development of a child. Motherhood is often described as a lifelong commitment that influences virtually every aspect of a woman’s life.
Key Responsibilities
- Nurturing: Providing emotional and physical support for the child, from infancy through adulthood.
- Educating: Teaching life skills, values, and morals.
- Protecting: Ensuring the child’s safety and advocating for their well-being.
Stages of Motherhood
Pregnancy and Anticipation The journey begins with pregnancy, a time of preparation and anticipation as a woman gets ready to welcome a new life. This stage includes physical and emotional changes that prepare her for childbirth and parenting.
Infancy and Early Years The early years of a child’s life are crucial. Mothers often focus on providing love and basic needs like feeding and sleeping. This period is intense, with significant attention devoted to the child’s safety and developmental milestones such as walking and talking.
School Years As children grow and start school, mothers play a key role in their educational journey and social development. This stage may involve helping with homework, engaging in school activities, and guiding children through social challenges.
Adolescence Teenage years can be challenging for both mother and child. Mothers must balance providing guidance and allowing independence, helping their children navigate emotional, physical, and social changes.
Adulthood Even as children reach adulthood, the role of a mother evolves but does not end. It often shifts towards an advisory role, offering support and wisdom as adult children face their own life challenges.
Motherhood and Identity
Personal Growth Motherhood can significantly influence a woman’s identity, reshaping her priorities, perspectives, and sense of self. Many mothers find new strengths and passions through their parenting experiences, which may also lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of themselves.
Challenges While fulfilling, motherhood is not without its challenges. These can range from physical exhaustion and emotional stress to balancing work and family life. Each mother’s experience is different, and the challenges faced can vary widely depending on individual circumstances.
Support Systems Having a strong support system is crucial. This can include partners, family, friends, and community resources. Support can alleviate some of the burdens and provide a network of advice and empathy.
Motherhood in Action: Real-Life Examples Consider a mother teaching her child to ride a bike. The process involves patience (guiding the child through their fear), support (running alongside the bike), and celebration (sharing the joy of the child’s first solo ride). Another example is a mother attending parent-teacher conferences, showcasing her role in her child’s education and social environment.
Motherhood is a complex, rewarding journey that impacts every facet of a woman’s life. It requires a blend of love, patience, strength, and wisdom. Each stage of motherhood comes with its own set of joys and challenges, shaping the life of the mother and child alike. By understanding the nuances of motherhood, one can appreciate the depth of this vital role and the profound influence it has on society. Whether you are a mother, know a mother, or have a mother, the journey of motherhood touches everyone in some way.
The Power of Journaling in Motherhood
Journaling is a personal and introspective activity that involves writing down your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and reflections. For mothers, journaling can serve as a powerful tool to navigate the complexities of parenthood, capturing the fleeting moments of joy and challenge alike. Let’s explore how keeping a journal can transform your experience of motherhood, helping you cherish each moment and grow along with your child.
What is Journaling?
Journaling involves the regular practice of writing down your thoughts and experiences. It provides a private space where you can express emotions, ponder decisions, and celebrate milestones. Unlike other forms of writing, journaling is personal and unstructured, allowing you the freedom to explore your thoughts without judgment or restriction.
The Benefits of Journaling for Mothers
Emotional Release and Stress Reduction Motherhood comes with its highs and lows. Journaling acts as an emotional outlet, allowing you to process complex feelings about parenting. Writing about your struggles can help reduce stress and manage anxiety, making you feel lighter and more in control.
Memory Preservation As a mother, you witness countless precious moments that you’ll want to remember for years to come. Journaling helps you capture these memories in vivid detail, from your child’s first words to their graduation day. These entries can become cherished keepsakes that you and your child can look back on.
Enhancing Self-awareness and Personal Growth Regular journaling encourages you to reflect deeply on your role as a mother and an individual. This self-reflection can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth. You might discover new insights about your parenting style, identify areas for improvement, or reaffirm your strengths and values.
Problem Solving and Decision Making Motherhood often requires quick thinking and problem-solving. Journaling about the challenges you face can help clarify your thoughts and lead to solutions. Writing down a problem and exploring potential strategies can make the path forward clearer and more manageable.
Strengthening the Bond with Your Child Journaling about your daily interactions with your child can help you understand and connect with them on a deeper level. Reflecting on your child’s behaviors and your reactions can improve your parenting techniques and empathy, strengthening the emotional bond between you.
How to Get Started with Journaling in Motherhood
Choosing Your Medium Select a journal that resonates with you. It could be a beautifully bound book that inspires you to write, or a simple digital document that’s always accessible. The key is consistency, so choose a medium that fits easily into your daily routine.
Setting Aside Time Finding time to journal can be challenging as a busy mother. It doesn’t have to be lengthy; even a few minutes a day can be beneficial. Some mothers find that writing in the morning helps set the tone for the day, while others prefer to reflect in the evening as a way to unwind.
What to Write About Start with what feels natural. You might write about the day’s events, how you felt, what you and your child did, or significant milestones. There are no rules—what matters most is that the practice serves you and your needs.
Make It a Habit Consistency is key in journaling. Try to make it a regular part of your routine, even if you’re only writing a few lines each day. Over time, you’ll find that it becomes a natural and essential part of your day.
Embracing journaling as part of your motherhood journey offers numerous benefits. It provides a unique space to express yourself, preserve memories, solve problems, and connect deeply with your child. Whether you’re jotting down a quick note about a funny moment or delving into a lengthy reflection on your parenting challenges, each entry helps you navigate and celebrate the complex journey of motherhood. Start your journal today, and discover how this simple practice can enrich your life and your relationship with your child.
Journal Writing Prompts for Motherhood
- What small moment today reminded you of the joy of motherhood?
- List three things your child did this week that made you proud.
- Describe a recent parenting challenge and how you addressed it.
- Reflect on how your identity has evolved since becoming a mother.
- What are your hopes for your child’s future?
- Record a cherished memory with your child from this month.
- How have you balanced personal interests with motherhood lately?
- Write about a tradition you’re excited to share or start with your child.
- What advice would you give your pre-motherhood self?
- What aspects of motherhood were you unprepared for?
- How does your child inspire you daily?
- Describe a moment when you felt a strong connection with your child.
- What self-care practices have become important to you as a mother?
- Write a letter to your child about your dreams for them.
- What has been your biggest sacrifice as a mother, and how do you feel about it?
- How do you and your child like to unwind together?
- What was the funniest thing your child said or did this week?
- Reflect on a moment when you had to be strong for your family.
- What qualities do you admire in other mothers?
- How do you handle disagreements or discipline with your child?
- What is something new you’ve learned about yourself this year through parenting?
- Describe a perfect day with your family.
- How do you manage stress on particularly tough days?
- What goals do you have for your family life?
- How has your relationship with your partner changed since having children?
- What was the last book or story you read to your child, and why did you choose it?
- How do you hope your child remembers their childhood?
- Write about a fear you’ve overcome since becoming a mother.
- What are some ways you’ve grown as a person since your child was born?
- How do you find time for yourself, and what do you do during that time?
- What tradition from your own childhood do you want to pass on?
- How has your daily routine evolved with your child’s growth?
- What was a particularly rewarding moment recently in your parenting journey?
- Write a letter of forgiveness to yourself for any parenting mistakes.
- What is your favorite quality in your child, and why?
- How do you foster creativity in your child?
- What is a lesson you’ve learned from your child?
- Describe how you felt the first time you held your child.
- What are your aspirations for your child’s education?
- How do you balance discipline with love and understanding?
- What is the most surprising thing you’ve found about parenting?
- How do you maintain your individuality while being a devoted mother?
- What support do you wish you had as a mother?
- Write about a recent act of kindness that touched your heart.
- How do you navigate the challenges of work and motherhood?
- What does a relaxed weekend look like for your family?
- What has been your favorite age of your child so far, and why?
- Reflect on how you communicate with your child as they grow.
- How has becoming a mother changed your perspective on life?
- What are you most grateful for about your family?
Download Printable Journal Prompts (PDF) >>
Guided Journal for Motherhood
50 Writing Prompts to Explore Your Feelings, Celebrate Your Child’s Milestones, and Reflect on Your Evolving Role as a Mother
Introduction to Your Journey in Journaling Motherhood is a mosaic of moments—some joyful, some challenging, but all meaningful. “The Guided Journal for Motherhood” is designed to help you capture these fleeting times, reflect on your personal growth, and preserve memories that you and your child will treasure for years to come. This guided journal offers 50 thoughtfully crafted prompts that delve into the heart of motherhood, encouraging you to explore your feelings, celebrate your child’s milestones, and reflect on your evolving role as a mother.
Why Choose ‘The Guided Journal for Motherhood’? This journal isn’t just a collection of blank pages; it’s a structured path to deeper self-understanding and connection with your child. Each prompt is tailored to different aspects of the parenting experience, from the daily routines to the profound emotional shifts that accompany motherhood. Whether you’re a new mom or have been on this path for years, this journal meets you where you are in your journey.
Key Features and Benefits
Thought-Provoking Prompts From capturing a tiny moment of joy to confronting the challenges you face, each of the 50 prompts encourages you to pause and ponder. You’ll find questions like:
- “What small moment today reminded you of the joy of motherhood?”
- “Describe a recent parenting challenge and how you addressed it.”
- “What are your hopes for your child’s future?”
These prompts are designed not only to document experiences but also to inspire a deeper exploration of what it means to be a mother.
A Tool for Emotional Wellness Journaling is a proven method for stress relief and mental clarity. “Moments of Motherhood” offers a private, peaceful space to express your thoughts and emotions, helping you manage the complexities of parenthood with grace and resilience.
Memory Keeper As days turn into years, memories can blur. This journal acts as a time capsule, preserving not just what happened, but how you felt about it—your child’s first steps, their first words, and the lessons you’ve learned along the way.
Personal Growth Through Reflection Reflect on how motherhood has reshaped your identity, acknowledge your growth, and recognize the strengths you’ve developed. Writing about your experiences can reveal insights about your values, hopes, and dreams.
Bonding Through Words Writing a letter to your child about your dreams for them or documenting the advice you would give to your pre-motherhood self are powerful ways to connect with your child and your past self. These entries may one day serve as cherished gifts to those you love.
Getting Started
“The Guided Journal for Motherhood ” is easy to incorporate into your daily routine. The flexible format allows you to write as much or as little as you like, whenever you find the time. The journal is beautifully designed to inspire your writing journey, with each page offering ample space to express yourself.
This guided journal is more than just a book—it’s a companion through the twists and turns of motherhood. With each entry, you build a legacy of words that captures the essence of your experiences, emotions, and lessons learned. “The Guided Journal for Motherhood” is an invaluable keepsake that celebrates the journey of motherhood, serving as a reminder of the incredible role you play in your child’s life. Start your journaling journey today, and see how the simple act of writing can enrich your experience as a mother.
As you fill the pages of your journal with responses to these prompts, you’ll create a personal keepsake that captures the essence of your motherhood journey. This practice will not only aid in your personal growth but also strengthen the bond between you and your child as you document your shared experiences. Moreover, journaling is a flexible activity—you can write daily, weekly, or whenever you feel inspired. There’s no right or wrong way to journal; the most important thing is that it feels meaningful and helpful to you.
Remember, each entry you write is a snapshot of your life, a piece of your legacy that you may one day share with your child. Through your words, you can show them how they were loved, celebrated, and cherished, every step of the way. Whether you look back on your entries in the years to come for reflection or share them with your children, your journal will stand as a testament to your journey through motherhood—a journey uniquely yours. Embrace this opportunity to reflect, celebrate, and grow through your writing. Happy journaling!
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Trish Blackwell
Coaching your confidence and courage to that you finish what you start and contribute to the world in a way that matters.
30+ Journal Prompts and Affirmations for Motherhood
By TrishBlackwell on May 12, 2023 in Blog
Motherhood is a sacred and transformative journey, full of both joy and challenge. As mothers, we are called to nurture and shape the lives of our children, while also pursuing our own goals and dreams. This Mother’s Day, it’s important to take the time to reflect on the many ways in which motherhood has shaped us and to honor the role of the mother in our lives. In this blog post, we’ll explore a range of tools to help you deepen your relationship with your children, including journal prompts to reflect on your own experiences as a mother, inspiring Bible verses to guide your spiritual journey, and affirmations to help you cultivate a positive and confident mindset. Whether you’re a new mom or a seasoned parent, these tools can help you navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood with grace and intention, and deepen your connection with your children in profound and meaningful ways.
When I was a new mom, my early days of motherhood were filled with chaos, clutter, and constant demands on my time and energy. Diapers, bottles, and baby clothes seemed to be everywhere, and I felt like I was always needed for something. There was no quiet time to be myself, no time to simply relax and recharge. On top of it all, I was building my business and trying to work around nap times and toddler activities and playdates. The emotional exhaustion and sleep deprivation were overwhelming, and I often felt like I was barely holding it all together. Despite the challenges, however, I knew that being a mom was the most important and rewarding job in the world, and I was determined to make it work. Through sheer determination, perseverance, and the help of a supportive community, I found my way through those early days of motherhood and emerged stronger and more resilient than ever before.
As mothers, we are constantly juggling the demands of parenthood alongside our personal goals and desires. It can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day busyness of motherhood and lose sight of the bigger picture – who we want to be as mothers and the kind of relationship we want to have with our children.
Taking time to reflect on our values and goals as mothers is an important step in developing a positive and fulfilling relationship with our children. The following journal prompts are designed to help you explore who and how you want to be as a mother, and to deepen your understanding of your role in shaping the lives of your children. Through thoughtful reflection and introspection, you can strengthen your connection with your children and cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment in your role as a mother.
Journal Prompts for Intentional Motherhood:
- What values and principles do I want to instill in my children as a mother?
- In what ways can I be more present and attentive as a mother?
- What kind of role model do I want to be for my children?
- How can I balance being nurturing and supportive with setting appropriate boundaries and expectations for my children?
- What kind of memories do I want to create with my children and how can I make those happen?
- How do I want my children to perceive me and remember me as a mother?
- What have been some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a mother and how have I grown and learned from those experiences?
- How can I continue to prioritize my own well-being and personal growth while also being a dedicated mother?
- What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of motherhood for me and how can I continue to appreciate and cherish those moments?
- What kind of legacy do I want to leave behind as a mother and how can I work towards achieving that vision?
- What do I want my children to know about themselves that I can commit to speaking over them with intention and consistency?
- What type of mindset so I want to exemplify for my children as they watch me navigate and grow in my own life?
Journal Prompts for Deepening Your Relationship with Your Mother:
- What is one lesson your mother taught you that you still carry with you today?
- What are some of your earliest memories of your mother? What stands out to you about those memories?
- What are some of the sacrifices your mother made for you and your family throughout your life?
- In what ways has your mother supported and encouraged you throughout your life?
- How has your relationship with your mother evolved over the years? What has contributed to these changes?
- What are some qualities about your mother that you admire and appreciate?
- What are some challenges your mother faced while raising you that you may not have fully appreciated at the time?
- What is one thing your mother does that always brings a smile to your face or makes you feel loved?
- How has your mother influenced the person you are today?
- What are some ways you can show appreciation and gratitude for your mother?
Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate and honor the incredible women who have given us life, nurtured us, and raised us to become the individuals we are today. As we take a moment to appreciate the loving presence of mothers in our lives, it’s important to remember that the role of a mother is one of the most revered and cherished in all of human history. The Bible is full of verses that celebrate the power and beauty of motherhood, and offer words of comfort and guidance to mothers everywhere.
Proverbs 31:25-28 – “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
Isaiah 49:15 – “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!”
Psalm 139:13-14 – “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Proverbs 6:20-22 – “My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you.”
Exodus 20:12 – “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 – “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”
Proverbs 23:22-25 – “Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Buy the truth and do not sell it— wisdom, instruction and insight as well. The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him. May your father and mother rejoice; may she who gave you birth be joyful!”
As mothers, we often find ourselves caught up in the chaos of daily life, trying to balance multiple roles and responsibilities. It can be all too easy to focus on our shortcomings and feel like we’re not doing enough for our children. However, it’s important to take a step back and reflect on the bigger picture.
In the midst of the chaos, we are doing better than we think we are, and our children are lucky and blessed to have us as their mothers. After all, of all the mothers in the world, God specifically chose us to be the mothers of our children. We are uniquely equipped to nurture and guide them, and our love and devotion make all the difference in their lives. So, take heart in this truth and let it fuel your confidence and strength as a mother. You are doing a great job, and your children are lucky to have you!
To remind yourself, you can speak truth over yourself. Here are some affirmations you can use to feel like a good mom and to remind yourself that you are in fact doing a great job.
Confidence Affirmations for Moms:
- I am doing my best as a mom, and that is enough.
- My love for my children is unwavering and unbreakable.
- I trust myself to make the right decisions for my children.
- I am a patient, kind, and nurturing mother.
- I am proud of the mother I have become and the example I am setting for my children.
- My children feel safe, loved, and cared for because of my actions as a mom.
- I am learning and growing alongside my children, and that is a beautiful journey.
- I am grateful for the opportunity to be a mother and to share in the joys and challenges of raising children.
- I embrace my imperfections as a mother, knowing that they make me human and relatable to my children.
- My children are a reflection of the love and care I pour into them, and I am proud of who they are becoming under my guidance.
- God selected me to be a mother to this child, and that makes me the perfect mother for them. I trust God’s plan.
- I love how I am growing as a mother and I am confident that God will continue to mold me, mature me and make me more and more into the mother that my children most need.
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, or any other day of the year in which you want to give thanks for your mother or for the role of being a mother yourself, let us remember to cherish and appreciate the incredible journey of motherhood. No matter how chaotic, tiring, or overwhelming it can be at times, it is a privilege and a blessing to be a mother. Let us also take a moment to reflect on the mother who raised us and the generations of mothers before us, who have passed down their love, wisdom, and strength. By recognizing the value of our own mothers, we can feel more connected to the line of mothers that has nurtured and matured us into the people we are today. May we give thanks for the role that motherhood has played in shaping our lives, and may we continue to honor and cherish it in all its beauty and complexity.
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Spiritual motherhood is the high calling God puts on every woman's life (Matthew 28:18-20), because God's way has always been to pass truth from life to life (2 Timothy 2:1-2) and generation to generation (Psalm 145:4). Ideally, in almost any season of life the same woman may be both an older and younger woman — teaching those younger ...
This motherhood journey, unique in its course but shared in essence by mothers everywhere, brings us to the concept of Matrescence. Introduced by Dana Raphael, this term encompasses the journey of becoming a mother. It is more than just a physical transition—it spans the emotional, spiritual, and social dimensions of our lives.
The spiritual journey of motherhood is in the power of creation. First of all, when you become a mom, you create life, and this act of creation brings you closer to the power of Source, which is where everything in the Universe comes from.
For a long time I've lived two separate lives - a life of an unfolding spiritual journey and purpose and a life as an everyday mother, partner and housewife. The first one happens mostly within me and I get to share it here with you, my readers and online friends, but I don't express much outwardly in my day-to-day doings. The second life happens in the hours when I'm not working on ...
Here are six concrete things you can do to explore the call to spiritual maternity and realize that it isn't a consolation prize -- it's a incredible calling from the Father. The world needs your ...
Far from mundane or mindless, motherhood can provide fertile soil for thinking, problem-solving, expanding interests, growing in competencies, and learning our Father's world. "When a mother's mind is fixed on the Spirit, it becomes a wellspring of blessing to those around her." The life of a mother's mind is sacred.
Spiritual motherhood is more important than biological motherhood. There are plenty of women who are biological mothers and yet are not mothers at all. Some consider their child to be a nuisance and an accident, saying "I didn't want it.". Take for instance women who have an abortion for convenience's sake. God offers them a tremendous ...
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Spiritual Motherhood is a beautiful expression of love and devotion that finds its roots in the essence of motherhood itself. Lay women, called spiritual mothers, take on the role of nurturing and supporting priests & religious through their prayers, sacrifices, and companionship. Just as a biological mother cares for her children, spiritual mothers offer their spiritual children - priests ...
Being a Spiritual Mother is a supernatural way to care for souls, especially priests. It is a type of maternity that nurtures divine life in others by doing God's will. Spiritual Motherhood is open to all Catholic women regardless of age, state of life, or vocation.
Motherhood is a Spiritual Journey: What I Learned + How I Changed as a Twin Mom Motherhood is a journey filled with perseverance, personal development, and unwavering love. Learn how Elizabeth, founder of StereoType Kids, has discovered the significance of letting go and the profound reservoir of fortitude within herself to get through difficult challenges. From the awe-inspiring moment of ...
But while biological motherhood is a unique role, today we'll be talking about motherhood from a different perspective: spiritual motherhood. Whether you're looking for a spiritual mother or aspire to be one, here's what being a spiritual mother really means. What is a Spiritual Mother?
Motherhood is about reverencing, protecting, and nurturing life…. So, what exactly is spiritual motherhood? Glad you asked! Let's look first at some key attributes of natural motherhood. Moms are the first conduits of life; with God working in and through them new life comes to be. This awesome intimacy with the Creator should inspire a ...
Taking on a spiritual perspective on pregnancy and motherhood can enrich your experience and bring deeper meaning to your journey.
A godly mother is a woman who allows God to sanctify, purify, love, redeem, and shape her in life's circumstances. The journey of motherhood—becoming a godly mother—doesn't start when you give birth or adopt a child. It begins with knowing your identity in Jesus. The enemy has uniquely designed arrows for mothers.
This is a quote from a spiritual mother. It asks about higher things. It says, "Remember, for greater things you were born.". It opens the avenue for spiritual conversations which lead to spiritual growth. Spiritual motherhood is about nurturing life. It is about helping another grow and develop into the person that God desires them to become.
Motherhood is the life-on-life transmission of a God-centered, Christ-treasuring worldview.
The mother's spiritual journey creates the fertile ground for a happy pregnancy and motherhood journey. Pregnancy is the perfect time to break generational patterns and learn to tap into your feminine power and intuition, so you become the confident and powerful Empress Mama you're meant to be and create new legacies.
Briefing Motherhood and spirituality' faith reflections from the inside close to women's hearts, and motherhood becomes a lens through which we see and experience life, and this includes spirituality There is no such thing as a 'general' spirituality. All spirituality is grounded in one or other tradition and life experience.
Spiritual motherhood is a topic that more people are becoming aware of within the Catholic Church. Around the United States, retreats and conferences include this subject and new groups are forming to implement its practices.
Motherhood is a journey filled with moments of joy, challenges, laughter, and learning. Each day brings new experiences that shape you as a mother and an individual. Keeping a journal during this time can be a profoundly enriching practice, allowing you to capture memories, reflect on your parenting experiences, and express your thoughts and emotions. Whether you're a new mom or have been on ...
Motherhood is a sacred and transformative journey, full of both joy and challenge. As mothers, we are called to nurture and shape the lives of our children, while also pursuing our own goals and dreams.