As we enter the beautiful season of Advent—a time of hope, preparation, and sacred expectation—our movement, Mothers Who Pray for Their Children, gathered once more as a united spiritual family. Though separated by oceans, borders, and languages, we came together for a memorable Virtual Christmas Gathering, celebrating an extraordinary year of grace, growth, and prayer.
This event was not just an online meeting; it was a tapestry of hearts connected in faith. Mothers joined in from four different countries, praying and singing in three different languages, each voice rising like incense toward heaven. The Holy Spirit truly moved through our screens and into our homes, reminding us that prayer has no boundaries—geographical or otherwise.
Our International Coordinator, Carolina Ceterenski, lovingly organised this special encounter. With her gentle leadership and joyful spirit, Carolina guided us into a space of reflection and unity, helping us prepare as mothers to welcome Christ anew this Christmas.
We were blessed with the presence of our dear Foundress, Angela Abdo, joining us all the way from Brazil. With her characteristic warmth, she thanked every mother in the movement for her perseverance and dedication. Angela reminded us of the heart of our mission with her powerful words. These words echo deeply within our hearts, calling us to continue our service, prayer, and love with renewed strength.
Our Spirituality Coordinator, Paula Belon, beautifully led us in prayer—ushering us into a contemplative space to reflect on God’s love and the sacred mystery of Advent. Her guiding words invited each mother to pause, to breathe, to welcome Jesus into the silence and simplicity of the moment.
We were also profoundly blessed by our English Spiritual Director, Father Vic Ignacio, our devoted La Salette priest. His blessing and words of encouragement uplifted us as mothers striving to be instruments of peace and faith within our families.
One of the most touching moments of the night was our mini candlelight vigil, where screens glowed with soft, flickering lights—symbols of the Light of Christ that shines in every mother’s home. In this sacred moment, we were serenaded by Noelene Zulu from South Africa, who offered a moving rendition of “Silent Night” in both English and iZulu. Her voice, full of depth and devotion, united us all in a single, prayerful harmony across continents.
During our gathering, we were invited to reflect on our spiritual “Inner Dwelling”—the interior rooms of prayer described in the formations of our movement. Mothers shared which room they felt most at home with the Lord this year. These quiet testimonies reminded us that Jesus dwells within the most intimate places of our hearts. We are never alone—He walks with us through every challenge of motherhood and every joy of family life.
Our Virtual Christmas Gathering was more than an event—it was a gift. A moment to celebrate another incredible year of prayer, service, and shared motherhood. A moment to lift our eyes toward the One who comes to save, heal, and renew.
As we continue through Advent and prepare our homes and hearts for Christmas, may each mother in our movement carry the light of this gathering forward. May we continue to pray with love, fight for our children with faith, and persevere in our mission: With Jesus, through Jesus, and in Jesus.
From the Mothers who Pray for their Children family to yours,
May the peace and joy of Christ fill your home this Christmas.
Written by Felise D'Costa
Photo by Lori Cotacte