Intercession
May every expectant mother receive compassionate care and support as she nurtures the life in her womb.
Prayers
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, she opened her heart to receive his message that she would conceive the Son of God in her womb. As a young bride who had not yet lived with her husband, Mary knew that her pregnancy presented many challenges. Despite this knowledge, she faithfully responded, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
Like the Blessed Mother and like her cousin Elizabeth, women who unexpectedly become pregnant often face significant challenges. They, too, are called to place their trust in God and faithfully respond to His gift of new life. And we are called to walk with them in their time of need. As Jesus taught us, when we love and serve others, we are loving and serving Him.
May all expectant mothers be encouraged by the example of Mary and Elizabeth and receive support and grace in lovingly welcoming their children into the world.
One Step Further
When a woman is facing an unexpected pregnancy, the reaction of the first person she tells tends to set the tone for her decision-making. Pregnancy can be challenging, but no matter the circumstances, it’s important for an expectant mother to feel supported and loved. Read 10 Ways to Support Her When She’s Unexpectedly Expecting for simple tips on how to provide loving, life-affirming support for a friend who is unexpectedly pregnant. Your support may be the only support she receives.
Take Action:
Consider giving some time to one of the organisations who support expectant mothers in need in your community.
Share Gianna Care‘s website on social media or email to a friend
- Open your browser and go to https://giannacare.ie/
- Copy the URL (website address at top or bottom of page)
- Paste it into a post on your favourite social media platform, or into an email to a friend who may be interested
- Add a simple note such as “Gianna Care offers care and crisis pregnancy support to every woman experiencing an unexpected pregnancy in Ireland: please share to spread the word”.
- Hit ‘Send’ or ‘Post’ and you’re done. This small step could reach someone who needs hope and support today.
More involved:
Email Gianna Care at info@giannacare.ie and ask how you can support their vital work – you could offer a financial donation, volunteer some hours of your time, or gather supplies needed by expectant mothers and their families.
Note: Gianna Care is a non-profit organisation providing compassion, accurate information and support to hundreds of women every year facing an unplanned pregnancy or in need after an abortion.
