seasons of motherhood | pray the rosary | Behold Your Mother
Today we will pray the Introductory Prayers.
The “feminine genius,” a term popularized by St. John Paul II, is perhaps best expressed in the receptivity represented by pregnancy. A woman opens herself up to the physical presence of another person—tiny and fragile though he may be. She conscientiously focuses on providing the best nutrition for her growing baby. She may even play music to soothe and console the life within her. She gives of herself so that her child may flourish.
Motherhood is the ultimate creative act. Women cooperate with the Almighty Father to carry and to give birth to a precious, irreplaceable human being. Like Mary, the mother of Jesus, women give their fiat—Thy Will be done—during each phase of pregnancy.
As we ponder the mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary, we draw closer to Mary and, in turn, to her beloved son, Jesus. In Mary, we find a model of virtue—of patience, resilience, and hope.
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Challenges will inevitably arise during pregnancy. It is a journey that can be marked by both tremendous highs and devastating lows. Yet, if we place our trust in Jesus and Mary, we can achieve a peace of heart and soul which enables us to weather the pop-up storms that enter our lives.
With each bead of this Rosary that we pray, may we be touched by the healing and sustaining power of God—a power that can pull us through every challenge along the way. May we be filled with a feminine genius that enables us to be the best mothers we can be. May we draw courage from the example of the Blessed Mother, who loves us with an awe-inspiring devotion. May we face difficulties with renewed strength and find joy even in the midst of the trials and tribulations which cross our paths.
The writers of Catholic Mom enthusiastically gathered to share meditations on each Mystery of the Rosary in a special way for pregnant mothers. We invite you to join us throughout the month of May as we pray together each day, and to share these reflections with other moms who will enjoy them.
Copyright 2023 Maria V. Gallagher
Images: created by Ted Schluenderfritz for Holy Cross Family Ministries