What to Do When the House Is Stirring: Reflections on Catholic Motherhood

Emily Jaminet reflects on learning to find grace, faith, and joy amid the daily challenges in her 25 years of Catholic motherhood.

Cherishing the moments

When I look back on my 25 years of Catholic motherhood, I think about the daily joys, works, and sorrows that have shaped me over the years. I fondly recall the birth of each child, the joy of leisurely walks at the park or zoo with a gaggle of little ones, and the warmth of snuggling on the couch, surrounded by piles of library books to read. Those memories of tiny arms wrapped around my neck, begging for just one more hug after a day of adventures, are treasures I carry in my heart. As much as I would love to capture those moments in a time capsule, life doesn’t work that way. 

Now, as a soon-to-be grandmother, I find myself marveling at how quickly time has passed. It’s true what they say: the days can be slow, but the years are swift. 

Faith as the foundation of motherhood 

Being a Catholic mother has been one of the greatest joys and challenges of my life. It’s not just about raising children; it’s about teaching them the faith and instilling values that will guide them for a lifetime. Catholic motherhood is a profound way to connect with Christ through our Christian vocation: our path to Heaven. 

I thank God for blessing my husband and me with children, even though we sometimes felt overwhelmed or unqualified for the task. Prayer became our anchor. On the difficult days, when attending Mass meant taming a pew full of restless little ones, I would find myself repeating, “Jesus, I trust in You.” The Blessed Mother became my constant companion, interceding for me and granting me grace when motherhood felt most challenging. 

Catholic motherhood requires a long-term perspective. It’s not a sprint but a marathon, requiring trust in the Lord and an unwavering focus on the ultimate goal: heaven for ourselves and our families. The key to being a good Catholic mother lies in the heart — embracing God’s plan and relying on His grace. 

Finding grace in the everyday 

The cold winter months can be particularly challenging for moms. It’s easy to feel discouraged or overwhelmed, but take heart as spring is coming, and with it, the promise of Lent and the joy of Easter. Never give up hope or walk away from the priceless gift of your Catholic faith.

As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us: “Train the young in the way they should go; even when old, they will not swerve from it.” When we teach our children to know, love and serve the Lord, we equip them with a faith that will sustain them through life’s highs and lows. 

Living in the present moment 

Stay rooted in the present moment. Seek out new graces to strengthen your faith and family. Pray together — especially the Rosary, attend Mass as a family, and share meals around the table and learn to say “I am sorry” with sincerity and a contrite heart. These simple acts create not only faith-filled moments but also cherished memories that last a lifetime. 

Catholic motherhood is a journey of love, sacrifice, and joy. Embrace each moment, trusting that God’s grace will carry you and your family forward toward heaven. 

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Copyright 2025 Emily Jaminet
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