|
In the Gospel account of the Visitation, Mary travels to the hill country “in haste”
to visit her cousin Elizabeth (Lk 1:39). Despite being unexpectedly
pregnant herself, Mary responds to the news of Elizabeth’s pregnancy
with urgency, embarking on a journey that was probably difficult and spending the next three months at Elizabeth’s side.
Mary’s
example invites us to become more aware of the needs of pregnant and
parenting moms in our own communities. A woman with an unexpected
pregnancy may have any number of fears and challenges: facing judgment
from her friends and family, losing her job or housing, or being
abandoned by the father of her child. The needs and challenges of single
mothers can be immense, especially for women in poverty, and resources
are often not apparent for those most in need of support. Mothers in
difficult circumstances should see the Church as a place where they can
turn for friendship, help, and support. Mary’s witness is an invitation
to each of us to step up in love and compassion. It is a summons to make haste to
help mothers who may be isolated and alone. We too can bear Christ
within us and help others experience His presence. May we, the body of
Christ, do all we can to provide mothers, children, and families with
the support they need to flourish.
| 
