I’ve gushed before about my excitement over Catholic Digest’s new layout and renewal under Danielle Bean’s leadership. Let me say, again, I’m pleased as can be not only to pen the Year of Faith column on one of my favorite subjects — The Catechism! — but this month’s issue features my ode to the spiritual mothers in my life, including my Godmother-Auntie, several good girlfriends that God strategically placed in my life at different times, and Mary! Of course none of these gals replaced my own mother’s holy influence. It just goes to show that the feminine genius is not only inherent in women, but it can flourish with encouragement from others!

Here’s a peak from one of the sidebars, from the Catholic Digest feature: “What the World Needs Now is Spiritual Mothers — like YOU!”:

10 Ways You Can Spot a Spiritual Mother…

She nurtures others to become who they are meant to be in God’s eyes.

She recognizes, affirms, and protects human dignity.

She performs spiritual and corporal works of mercy with maternal care.

She helps others by her encouraging words and charitable service.

She prays for and with others as an intercessor for them, especially priests.

She practices the arts of friendship and hospitality.

She passes on what she knows as a mentor when asked.

She is a joy catalyst.

She keeps Christ close in her heart by imitating Mary.

She is a woman of holy influence who helps to give birth to saints

Has someone been a spiritual mother in your life? I’d love to hear about it in the combox.

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