For many mothers, finding time for prayer amid the demands of raising children can feel impossible. But one mother of nine recently shared a beautiful reminder that holiness can be found in the everyday moments of family life.
Kristen Terrio of Green Bay, Wisconsin called into Marriage Unhindered with Doug Hinderer to share how she maintains a close relationship with God while raising nine children, including seven-month-old twins.
Kristen admitted that during her early years of motherhood, she struggled with wanting to attend daily Mass and Eucharistic Adoration while managing the chaos of family life. Rather than finding peace, she often felt overwhelmed.
Over time, she discovered that prayer doesn’t have to be complicated.
Each morning, Kristen offers her day to God. She and her husband also practice Lectio Divina with their children, reflecting on the upcoming Sunday Gospel together.
She explained that different seasons of motherhood allow for different amounts of prayer. With two infants at home, even praying an entire Rosary can be difficult.
“Right now, it’s just a decade,” Kristen shared. “I’m faithful right now to one decade.”
Kristen also recalled finding comfort in St. Frances of Rome after experiencing a miscarriage. Inspired by the saint’s example, she learned that sometimes serving God means leaving the altar to find Him in the home.
Her testimony deeply moved Doug Hinderer, who praised her joyful spirit and unwavering faith.
Kristen’s story offers an encouraging message to parents everywhere: God doesn’t measure our love by how much we accomplish, but by the faithfulness with which we offer Him what we can.
Even amid sleepless nights, diaper changes, and busy schedules, every small act of love can become a prayer.
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