Intercession
May expectant mothers choosing adoption receive grace and support in embracing this loving option.
Prayers
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
Mothers
placing their children for adoption often face many challenges along
the way. One of the greatest obstacles can be inaccurately perceiving
adoption as abandonment. But a mother who determines that making an
adoption plan is best for her child isn’t deserting the child. Rather,
she is following the example of Christ’s sacrificial love on the Cross
in choosing a life-giving option that she has determined is ultimately
in the best interest of her child, even at great cost to herself. The
Letter to the Hebrews reminds us that, in the face of fears and trials,
we can “hold fast to the hope that lies before us. This we have as an
anchor of the soul, sure and firm” (Heb 6:18-19). We pray that each
expectant mother choosing adoption will be filled with “the peace of God
that surpasses all understanding” (Phil 4:7) as she decides which
life-giving option is best for her child. Let us all cling fast to the
anchor of hope, for we have received “a spirit of adoption, through
which we cry, ‘Abba, Father!’” (Rom 8:15).
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
- Do you have a sweet tooth? Or do you prefer salty snacks? Pick your favorite kind of treat, and give it up for the day.
- Look
up one of the Scripture passages from today’s reflection, and spend
some time with it in prayer. What is the Lord saying to you?
- Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
Accompanying Expectant Mothers Considering Adoption suggests
nine ways to offer ongoing support to a woman who is considering making
an adoption plan for her unborn child. Many of the tips given are also
helpful for supporting a friend who is experiencing a challenging or
unexpected pregnancy, even if adoption has not been brought
up. Supplemental resources regarding adoption can be found at usccb.org/adoption-resources.
NABRE
© 2010 CCD. Used with permission. Models used for illustrative purposes
only. iStock.com / AndreyPopov. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2022,
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, D.C. All
rights reserved.
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