Hannah's Tears Ministry: Catholic Infertility Support

Hannah's Tears - New Home Page!

2012-01-02T20:29:00.001-05:00

Please come visit our new home page...

http://hannahstears.net

NPT Over IVF

2011-05-28T23:50:00.002-04:00

Ten Reasons to Choose

NaProTECHNOLOGY (NPT) Over IVF:

(in addition to being in line with Church teaching!)
by David Picella

NaProTECHNOLOGY Focuses on Disease. If a couple cannot get pregnant, it makes sense that the first thing the doctor must do is to find out why. This is THE goal of the complete NPT program. With IVF, the cause of infertility is not important and in the underlying problem it is completely ignored.
Success Rates are Better with NaProTECHNOLOGY. Recent data from the Pope Paul VI Institute in Omaha, NE, show that NPT success rates are 1.5 to 3 times better than IVF (23.5% versus 38.4%-81.8%). In a 4 year study of 95 NPT couples who had been trying to conceive for an average of 6.1 years and had 176 failed attempts at an Artificial Reproductive Technique (ART) Boyle[1] reported that there were 123 conceptions. Life table analysis demonstrated increasing success the longer that couples remained in the NPT program with 26.2% pregnant at 12 to 17 months rising to 32.6% at 18-25 months.
No Destruction of Embryos. An analysis of ART data[2] from 1983 to 1986 demonstrated that the transfer of 1,372 embryos (3.2 per woman) resulted in 81 live births. From this data, it is necessary to create 16.9 living embryos to produce one live birth. The higher reported rates of success for IVF procedures usually means more embryos are being transferred which increases the risk of multiple births.
No Infanticide: "Selective Reduction" One of the most objectionable things about IVF is that it can result in a situation where a woman is forced to deal with a dangerously high multiple pregnancy rate. Pregnancy risk increases dramatically with the number of babies in the womb. Frequently, women are compelled to selectively "reduce" (i.e., kill) additional babies in the womb due to unacceptably high pregnancy risk.
Natural Sex versus a Laboratory Procedure In IVF, the sperm and eggs (gametes) are collected through masturbation (male) and harvesting (female) where they meet in a laboratory to form embryos which are then reintroduced into the woman's body. NPT, on the other hand, relies on a natural act of intercourse to achieve pregnancy.
NaProTechnology is more cost effective According to Collins[3], the median cost of one cycle of IVF in the United States in 2001 is $9,226. $20-30,000 expenses are not unheard of, however, because IVF clinics prefer to sell discount packages (multiple cycles) in order to increase success rates and allow for "shared" risk. In comparison, at one medical center in Duarte, CA (Santa Teresita), NPT has been cited as costing approximately $9,290 which includes a physician evaluation, hormone and ultrasound evaluation, and outpatient surgical treatment of infertility. And unlike IVF, these costs are commonly covered by insurance.
Pregnancy Outcomes There is growing concern that IVF may have significant adverse effects on the children conceived with this procedure. In a study of birth defects after ICSI and IVF procedures, Hansen et al. [4] reported that ICSI and IVF babies were more than twice as likely to have been diagnosed with a major birth defect by the end of one year of life (8.6% and 9.0%) as compared to naturally conceived babies (4.2%).
You could get pregnant again! Because natural fertility is restored with NPT, these couples are often able to get pregnant again. In the Boyle study[1] of 89 births in women who had failed ART, there were 14 women with 2 live births, and 1 woman with 3 live births. Since IVF does nothing to correct the cause of infertility, there is no benefit toward subsequent pregnancies.
What will you have to show for it? Ironically, in some cases IVF procedures cause additional harm to the female reproductive system in the course of treatment. For example, some IVF clinics will perform surgical removal of a blocked and swollen fallopian tube in order to increase success rates[5]. In these cases, when IVF fails, fallopian tube repair is no longer an option. This approach is contrary to the natural and restorative orientation of the NPT physician and surgeon[6]. NPT is designed to restore (not destroy) reproductive function. If nothing else, NPT couples have had the underlying cause of the problem addressed which often results in better overall health.
What happens after you get pregnant? This is perhaps the most important question. Frequently, couples who pursue IVF have not thought about what happens next. Success equals pregnancy. Unfortunately, ignoring the underlying problem that leads to infertility in the first place can adversely affect the pregnancy and even lead to miscarriage. With NPT, restoring health and fertility begins before conception and continues throughout the pregnancy with the aim of preventing miscarriage and promoting the optimum health of the newborn baby and mother.

References

1. Boyle, P., NaProTechnology (NPT) ï¿½ After previously unsuccessful Artificial Reproductive Technology (ART). 2004.

2. Cvetkovich, L.L., The reproductive technologies: A scientific overview, in The gift of life: The proceedings of a national conference on the Vatican instruction on reproductive ethics and technology, M. Wallace and T. Hilgers, Editors. 1990, Pope Paul VI Institute Press: Omaha, NE.

3. Collins, J., Cost-effectiveness of In Vitro Fertilization. Seminars in Reproductive Medicine, 2001. 19: p. 279-289.

4. Hansen, M., et al., The risk of major birth defects after Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection and In Vitro Fertilization. New England Journal of Medicine, 2002. 346: p. 725-730.

5. Nackley, A.C. and S.J. Muasher, The significance of hydrosalpinx in in vitro fertilization. Fertility and Sterility, 1998. 69: p. 373-384.

6. Hilgers, T.W., The Medical and Surgical Practice of NaProTechnology. 2004,Omaha , NE: Pope Paul VI Institute Press.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Picella

Patron Saints of Childless Couples and those that are Sterile

2011-05-06T13:15:00.000-04:00

These two souls below need their causes promoted for canonization. They are both from the early part of the 20th Century. Please consider a devotion to Ven. Maria Luisa & Ven. Elisabeth. They were both very holy women that were married to medical doctors and they were both childless; but God has greater plans. Read more about them to find out how God used them with love and goodness only He can bring about in our lives. God bless you!

Ven. Mother Maria Luisa Josefa of the Most Blessed Sacrament
Ven. Elisabeth Leseur

St. Anne Line: Patron Saint of Childless Couples

St. Catherine of Genoa: Patron Saint of Childless Couples

St. Colette

St. Gummarus: Patron Saint of Childless Couples

St. Henry II: Patron Saint of Childless Couples

St. Julian the Hospitaller: Patron St. of Childless Couples

St. Nicholas of Myra

More Saints

Patron - saints of Infertility

2011-05-03T15:13:00.000-04:00

This is a copy of a post that was added to the Home page on April 27, 2011.

The title of this post interprets that these two women from the 19th and 20th century are not yet canonized Saints, but they are venerable and their causes will be considered by the Church as we all promote them and ask for their prayers. Please consider promoting one or both of these beautiful souls below!

Elisabeth Leseur

read more here

The cause for the CANONIZATIONof Elizabeth Leseur is being handled in Rome by:Fr. Vito GomezPostulator Generalis
Curia Generalizia dei Padri Domenicani
Convento Santa Sabina (Aventino)
Piazza Pietro d'Illiria, 100153 Roma (Italia)
Telephone: (39) 6 57 941Fax: (39) 6 57 50 675
e-mail: postulatore@curia.op.org

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Maria Luisa Josefa

the Most Blessed Sacrament

The life of Mother Maria Luisa Josefa of the Most Blessed Sacrament is no ordinary story. It is a story filled with that complete trust in God which makes life a daring adventure, the kind of adventure one encounters when one dares to love God above all things and to place one's life completely in His hands. It is a story where trust in God and obedience to His manifest designs bursts forth into great sanctity. Mother Luisita is a model of holiness in the single, married, widowed and religious state.

Maria Luisa de la Pena was born in Atotonilco el Alto, Jalisco Mexico on June 21, 1866, the first surviving of fourteen children. Although she felt drawn to the religious life, at the age of fifteen in obedience to her parents, she married Doctor Pascual Rojas, a prominent physician who was twice her age. Their life together was happy, a mutual growing in love of God and neighbor. God did not grant them children. They trusted and decided together that the poor would be their children. They built the little Hospital of the Sacred Heart to serve those less fortunate. After fourteen years of married life Maria Luisa was left a widow. On his deathbed, Doctor Rojas told her that he had no doubt what she would do after he had died - she would serve God as a religious.

Eight years later Maria Luisa entered the Cloistered Carmelites and became immersed in the spirituality of Carmel. After seven months she was asked by the Archbishop to return to her work at the hospital which needed her guidance. Again she trusted God's manifest designs. Along with the hospital she opened a school and orphanage. Many others attracted by her charisma began to join her. The Archbishop re-appeared and told her that she would have to join an existing religious Congregation. Obediently she left all her works behind and joined the Sister Servants of the Blessed Sacrament. Four years later the Archbishop asked her to return she was needed at the hospital and with the children. She obeyed. More women joined her. This time the Archbishop himself suggested that she found a Religious Congregation and the Carmelite Sisters of the Sacred Heart were established on February 2, 1921. Her charism "to unite the spirit of Carmel to the active apostolate unfolded.

Six years later, a dangerous and terrifying adventure - religious persecution in her beloved Mexico. Dressed in disguise, she came to the United States as a homeless refugee. She trusted. God rewarded her confidence and her work became established in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. More adventure followed. In 1929 she returned to Mexico and continued the work she had begun there, as well as guiding, visiting and directing the Sisters in California. She spent the remainder of her life in hiding, ill and living in extreme poverty, often without sufficient food.

On February 11, 1937 God called His faithful servant home to Himself - an eternal adventure. In the Year of the Great Jubilee, after extensive study of her life and writings, the Church declared that she lived a life of heroic virtue and her cause toward sainthood is in progress.

THE MAKING OF A SAINT

Prayer For the Beatification of Venerable Mother María Luisa Josefa of the Most Blessed Sacrament

O Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, King and center of all hearts!

Look with merciful love on the petitions we present to You

through the intercession of Your servant, Mother Maria Luisa

Josefa of the Most Blessed Sacrament.

(Pause and request your petition)

We humbly beseech You to glorify her who was always such a

fervent lover of Your Sacred Heart by granting us these favors

if they are for Your greater honor and glory. Amen.

(Written by Mother Margarita María,O.C.D. and approved by

Cardinal Timothy Manning August 28, 1981.)

Graces obtained through Mother Luisita's intercession may be reported to :

Superior General

Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles

920 East Alhambra Road

Alhambra, California 91801

(626) 289-1353

Resource: http://www.carmelitesistersocd.com

We Can Learn So Much

2011-04-13T09:27:00.000-04:00

Dr. Bernard Nathanson remembered for his profound pro-life conversion: We can all learn so much...

Longing for a Child, God has all the Answers

2011-04-13T09:00:00.002-04:00

Something that you may think about with infertility support groups is a Bible study, with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament or Mass/Benediction. This may take time building such a support group but ask Our Lady to help you with opening the door of support with your priest/pastor and she will take care of the rest.

Matthew 7:7-8

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

Don't stop seeking God's presence, you will be surprised just what is waiting for you.

*Note to the reader, I'm not sure why this post is in all caps, as when I am typing this out I am not seeing it in all caps until it is posted. Sorry if you think I'm shouting, as I'm not. Blessings to you today and always. (Therese)

Don't Miss Out!

2011-04-07T14:32:00.008-04:00

NFP Introductory Sessions

Archdiocese of St. Louis, MO

If you have more announcements from around the world re: NFP support,

please let us know and we will add them to our list.

If You Really do not Keep away from Type two diabetes Now, You'll certainly Hate Your self Later

2011-04-04T19:41:00.000-04:00

Please welcome Patrica Harris guest writer for "Hannah's Tears Infertility Resource Page". Patricia will be sharing with us today how we can protect our body from Type 2 diabetes with good eating habits and exercise. Let's take a look and get ourselves ready for better habits and a better future for ourselves, our family but most important our fertility!

Author - Patricia Harris writes for www.diabeticmenus.org/


Type 2 diabetes is easily the most common form of diabetes. An incredible number of Americans have already been diagnosed with diabetes type 2 symptoms, and more are unconscious they are at high risk. Some groups have a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes than others. Diabetes type 2 is much more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders, as well as the aged people.   In type 2 diabetes, either our body isn't going to produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is critical for your body to be able to use glucose for energy. Once you eat food, your body breaks down the sugars and starches into glucose, that is certainly the basic fuel for any cells in your body. Insulin takes the sugar from your blood in the cells. When glucose accumulates in the blood rather than going into cells, it can lead to diabetes complications. You may have the power to increase and protect your wellbeing. With proper nutrition and physical activity and making good life-style choices (like not smoking), you are able to feel better, stronger, and healthier, and can decrease your risk of diseases like the cancer, diabetes, heart disease and stroke. 

What exactly is Healthy Weight? 

There's a simple way to see if your current weight puts you at risk for developing serious diseases. Visit www.diabetes.org/bmi and take the Body Mass Index (BMI) test. The results will let you decide if you need to be concerned about your weight.   

Better You Eat, Better You Are 

Here are a few basic guidelines to help you and your family make healthier food decisions: 

* Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit.   * Choose wholemeal foods over processed grain products. Try brown rice rather than white. Substitute whole wheat bread for white.   * Eat fish 2-3 times a week.   * Select leaner cuts of meat like those that end in "loin."   * Remove the skin from poultry and turkey.   * Eat low fat dairy   * Drink water and low calories non-carbonated liquids.   * Use liquid oils for cooking as a substitute for solid fats.   * Reduce too-high calorie junk food like chips, cookies, cakes, and regular frozen goodies.   Hunt for baked chips and reduced calorie snacks. Or have some fruit instead.   * Watch your serving sizes. Even an excessive amount of "healthy" food might cause extra pounds. 

Tips: 
* Compare labels of similar foods, then pick the one with smaller amounts of saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium.   * Adults should consume below 2400 mg. of sodium a day. For those who have hypertension, it's best to prefer even less.   * Try adding seasonings in your own cooking to substitute for salt for enhancing  flavor.

Just a little Work out Goes a long way 
Anything that gets you up and moving is designed for you. Here's what it may do:    * Decrease your risk of developing diabetes type 2   * Decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke Lower high blood pressure and cholesterol   * Reduce blood glucose (sugar) levels in case you have diabetes, which often can decrease your risk of developing diabetes-related complications   * Decrease tension * Help you to drop some weight   * Give you more energy   * Help you sleep better   * Build stronger bones and muscle mass    You do not need to go to a gym, play sports or use fancy equipment.   Naturally, it's best to talk to a family doctor prior to starting any exercise regimen.   When you have Diabetes.   Eating healthy and staying active are a lot more important when you have diabetes.   Well-balanced meals might help keep your glucose (sugar) level as nearly normal as it can be.   Being active likewise helps you lower your blood glucose. In case you increase your physical activity levels, you could probably take less insulin or diabetes pills. If you're very inactive, have heart disease or a history of foot ulcers, talk to your doctor about safe exercise available for you.  Check your blood glucose before exercising. If it's under 100 mg/dl, eat some fruit, crackers or drink glass of milk or juice.  Check it again after exercising to learn how your blood glucose reacts to exercise. Bring a snack if you'll be active for a few hours.  About the Author - Patricia Harris writes for the diabeticmenus.org/ blog, her personal hobby website aimed at guidelines to eat healthy to avoid and manage diabetes.

"The passion of the whole body of Christ"

2011-04-04T17:00:00.000-04:00

Lord, I have cried to you, hear me. This is a prayer we can all say. This is not my prayer, but that of the whole Christ. Rather, it is said in the name of his body. When Christ was on earth he prayed in his human nature, and prayed to the Father in the name of his body, and when he prayed drops of blood flowed from his whole body. So it is written in the Gospel: Jesus prayed with earnest prayer, and sweated blood. What is this blood streaming from his whole body but the martyrdom of the whole Church?

Lord, I have cried to you, hear me; listen to the sound of my prayer, when I call upon you. Did you imagine that crying was over when you said: I have cried to you? You have cried out, but do not as yet feel free from care. If anguish is at an end, crying is at an end; but if the Church, the body of Christ, must suffer anguish until the end of time, it must not say only: I have cried to you, hear me; it must also say: Listen to the sound of my prayer, when I call upon you.

Let my prayer rise like incense in your sight; let the raising of my hands be an evening sacrifice.

This is generally understood of Christ, the head, as every Christian acknowledges. When day was fading into evening, the Lord laid down his life on the cross, to take it up again; he did not lose his life against his will. Here, too, we are symbolised. What part of him hung on the cross if not the part he had received from us? How could God the Father ever cast off and abandon his only Son, who is indeed one God with him? Yet Christ, nailing our weakness to the cross (where, as the Apostle says: Our old nature was nailed to the cross with him), cried out with the very voice of humanity: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

The evening sacrifice is then the passion of the Lord, the cross of the Lord, the oblation of the victim that brings salvation, the holocaust acceptable to God. In his resurrection he made this evening sacrifice a morning sacrifice. Prayer offered in holiness from a faithful heart rises like incense from a holy altar. Nothing is more fragrant than the fragrance of the Lord. May all who believe share in this fragrance.

Therefore, our old nature in the words of the Apostle, was nailed to the cross with him, in order, as he says, to destroy our sinful body, so that we may be slaves to sin no longer.

From a commentary on the psalms by Saint Augustine, bishop

Church Documents

2011-04-04T16:39:00.000-04:00

The relevant Church documents can be found on the Vatican website:

Humanae vitae

Donum vitae

Evangelium vitae

Catechism of Catholic Church

NFP RESOURCES

2011-04-04T16:37:00.000-04:00

The Pope Paul VI Institute for the Study of Human Reproduction in Omaha, Nebraska was founded by Dr. Thomas Hilgers and his wife Sue in 1985.

Creighton Model Fertility Care System (CrMS), an advanced natural family planning system which links gynecologic and procreative healthcare and health maintenance.
Natural Procreative Technology), a new women's health science that monitors and maintains a woman's reproductive and gynecological health. It provides medical and surgical treatments that cooperate completely with the reproductive system.

The American Academy of Fertility Care Professionals (AAFCP) is another resource to find pro-life fertility care help. They address all sides of infertility including the emotional aspect.

The Billings Ovulation Method is a method of natural family planning based on the observation of the woman's cervical mucus and was developed by Drs. John and Evelyn Billings. It is less complicated than the Creighton Model Fertility Care System and therefore a good way to start monitoring one's fertility. They provide World Wide Services.

One More Soul is a global supplier of educational resources fostering God's plan for love, marriage, and procreation.

Couple to Couple League provides information, teaching and support for couples using or wanting to learn about Natural Family Planning.

FertilityCare Centres of Europe
We provide information about Creighton Model FertilityCare services and NaProTechnology in Europe.

Priests for Life have interesting articles and links dealing with the issue of contraception and natural family planning.

The Second Annual Pro-Life Symposium

2010-10-22T17:53:00.001-04:00

Jesus loves

2010-06-14T21:18:00.000-04:00

YOU!!

Trust in HIM!

Mother Teresa's Secret Fire

2009-10-08T15:34:00.001-04:00

The Cross of Infertility ~ Interview with Dr. Marie Meaney

2009-10-08T14:48:00.000-04:00

Catholic Answers Interviews

Dr. Marie Meaney, author of

"Embracing the Cross of Infertility"

"The Cross of Infertility"

look for this at the bottom of the web page

Listen (Real)	Click here to listen to show in Real audio format
Download (Real)	Right click (Mac: option-click) and select Save
Listen (MP3)	Click to listen to MP3 (right-click to download)

Infertility Pamphlet

2009-09-30T22:44:00.001-04:00

Click link below for a pdf file of this pamphlet

Addressing Infertility
with
Compassion and Clarity

*Note, this file has been fixed 8/27/11

Infertility Article - Western Catholic Reporter

2009-09-11T14:49:00.000-04:00

Unable to endorse this article due to the person being interviewed does not uphold Catholic teaching. We apologize for any inconvenience this has made for you seeking information.

New Hope For Infertility Parts I and II

2009-09-10T16:01:00.000-04:00

Infertility Parts I and II

Dr. Hildgers Interview Explaining NaPro...

2009-09-09T22:26:00.001-04:00

Series Name: The World Over
Host: Raymond Arroyo w/ Dr. Thomas Hilgers.
Date Produced: 2/2/2007
Description: Christendom College.

http://ewtn.edgeboss.net/download/ewtn/audiolibrary/wo_02022007.mp3

The next S.H.E. Meeting ~ Infertility Support

2009-08-20T12:41:00.000-04:00

New S.H.E. blog site for infertility support meetings.

Please let us know if you would like to share your support group meetings with us, it's a way of networking with other Catholic bloggers on the internet.

Let me know: Hannahs.Tears(at)gmail.com

Article found ~ "The Pain of Infertility"

2009-07-29T11:47:00.000-04:00

Jane Williams shares her personal experience and feelings about infertility.

click below to read article

The pain of infertility

Catholic iPod - Fertility Care

2009-07-17T20:18:00.000-04:00

check it out!

Audio – Dr. Thomas Hilgers – YOUR FERTILITY CARE CONSULT

At a time of disappointment

2009-04-27T07:54:00.000-04:00

O Jesus!

My Eucharistic Lord you alone truly know me

you search the depths of my very soul ,

you know all my perplexities and fears....

I trust you, I trust you!

You know the longings and deepest desires of my heart,

I bow before your Holy Will, for all prayer is not of me,

but is your Spirit whispering within me.

Your silent NO is born of your LOVE!

I trust that your answer then will be at a better time,

a greater grace, or a better gift.

I trust you...

Receive all my tears

and transform them into blessings for souls!!

Unless you become...

2009-04-25T10:02:00.001-04:00

In the deepest recesses of the human heart of every grown man and woman is a child......the child within is the most authentic part of our being, that which is without

pretension, affectation, the true, the humble self......

This is the child God wants to pick up and lay upon his breast, this is the child that Mary wants to feed and nurture unto eternal life, the true little, authentic self.....

Man may strive to make all kinds of heroic efforts to please God, serve God, pray to God, but what God desires is simply our hearts and love....that gift is within the possibly of all, and that is Gods justice, wisdom and love.....

Behold the Parenthood within the Trinity... that is our mirror.

Part II from a Poor Clare Colettine Sister (TMD community)

A Little Child

2009-04-24T11:24:00.000-04:00

I have been asked about Spiritual childhood....it is a beautiful gift of grace to trust in God as a little child, and there are many words in scripture that reveal to us that we are so unto God.

To be as a child before God is totally contrary to the spirit of this world which would try and educate us in power seeking, exploitation, and self seeking.....

A child seeks to love in simplicity of heart, it looks to those entrusted with its parenthood for all its needs..... this is how God would have us to.... why otherwise would he reveal himself as Father and also give us in his great wisdom and love a heavenly MOTHER ?

We all know times of suffering, pain and disappointment, the pain can be so deep that words fail us totally, at such times place yourself on the heart of your heavenly Mother, climb into the arms of the Father... and simply pour out your tears, for God and Mary love you , understand you as no other ever can or will.

Never fear your littleness and vulnerability it will draw Gods compassion down upon you.

Sent by a Poor Clare Colettine Sister

Wales (UK)

CONGREGATION FOR THE DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH

2008-12-30T16:32:00.000-05:00

This has been written for you and your many questions

from Holy Mother Church

please read when you are able:

Dignitas Personae on Certain Bioethical Questions

Infertility Novena

2008-12-30T15:00:00.000-05:00

Are you looking for a novena in regards to infertility?

Here's one that we've found very helpful, to bring peace and hope...

click here
Novena for LIFE

Saints Anne and Joachim

I pray that this translates into the language that you may need. God bless you and please know that you are being lifted in prayer by many faithful souls.

Peace and blessings,

Hannah's Tears

Patron Saint of Infertile Men

2008-10-26T16:40:00.000-04:00

http://www.stnicholascenter.org/Brix?pageID=45

PRAYER TO ST. NICHOLAS OF MYRA O Saint Nicholas, bountiful Father and special Patron of our Byzantine Catholic Church. You are a shepherd and teacher to all who invoke your protection, and who, by devout prayer, call upon you for aid. Hasten and save the flock of Christ from ravenous wolves; and by your holy prayers protect all Christians and save them from worldly disturbances, earthquakes, attacks from abroad, from internal strife, from famine, flood, fire, sword, and sudden death. As you had mercy on those three men in prison and saved them from the king's wrath, now also have mercy on me who by word, deed, and thought have sunk into the darkness of sin. Save me from the just anger of God, and from eternal punishment. Through your intercession and aid as well as through his own mercy and grace, may Christ our God allow me to lead a tranquil and sinless life, and save me from standing at "his left," but deem me worthy to stand at "his right" with all the saints. Amen.

Embracing the Cross

2008-09-13T10:18:00.000-04:00

"Embracing the Cross and Another Day"

Drug Treatment Developed to Prevent Miscarriages

2008-09-12T16:30:00.000-04:00

Women could be routinely screened for their risk of miscarriage and treated with cheap drugs following a breakthrough by scientists.

Read the story

Drug Treatment Developed to Prevent Miscarriages

Prayer to Honor the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague

2008-08-26T22:43:00.000-04:00

Divine Infant Jesus, I want to give You my hands today. I want to serve You with all my heart and make You known and loved. Doing Your will is the source of my inner peace and joy.

Divine Infant, I give You my hands to touch those I meet with Your love and peace. I ask You to heal those in pain, to encourage the hopeless, to console the sorrowing, and to provide for those in want. I ask You to reach out to the lonely. I especially plead for the many people suffering from great poverty and injustice.

Miraculous Infant, I believe that You love me and know all of my needs. I place them in Your hands, especially my present concerns (mention here). I trust in Your love and care. I want to honor and praise You, now and fover. Amen.

Catholic Fertility Prayers

2008-08-20T21:08:00.000-04:00

Catholic Prayers for Conception, Pregnancy, Adoption

Prayer Petitions

2008-08-14T14:00:00.000-04:00

There will be a Mass offered for the Apostolate of Hannah's Tears on September 8, 2008. Anyone who would like to have their names placed on the altar for this Mass, please send in your petitions to Hannahs.Tears@gmail.com

God Bless You!

Fertility Support Sites

2008-06-09T12:05:00.000-04:00

For those of you seeking great Catholic Support information... here's the list! Wow! It's a Gold Mine of Support!!!!

http://catholicipod.stblogs.com/2008/01/22/update-more-of-dr-hilgers-audio-your-fertility-care-consult/

http://catholicipod.stblogs.com/naprotechnology-natural-family-planning/

Novena Prayer for Healing

2008-05-15T21:50:00.000-04:00

(pray for 9 consecutive days; different intention every day)

Prayer for Healing:

God, like a watchful Shepherd, You care for us. You make the earth yield healing herbs and medicines and give us the knowledge to learn their power. Your creative love continues through the healing hands of doctors, pharmacists, and nurses, and the healing counsel of priests, ministers, and friends.

Bless me, and all who suffer. Our afflictions become a cross that burdens us with fear and uncertainty. Cast out our fear and revive your faith. Give us strength that we may be filled with hope. Let the Holy Spirit come to our aid that we might live each day in the joy for which You fashioned us.

I pray for healing in body, soul, and spirit that I may be Your servant in this world and enjoy the fullness of Your Presence in the life to come. I make this prayer humbly, knowing I cannot restrict or direct Your saving grace. I give joyful thanks for Your compassion wherever I may find it.I ask all this in the Name of the Lord Jesus Who intercedes before You on my behalf. Amen.

Novena Intentions:
Day 1 : That all who are sick may experience the healing touch of the Lord Jesus.

Day 2 : That all who are ill among my family and friends may be restored to health in mind, body, and spirit.

Day 3 : That all who suffer from mental disease may receive compassionate treatment.

Day 4 : That all the homebound and bedridden may have Christ as their consolation.

Day 5 : That all who suffer from diseases that devastate the body may be granted strength and hope.

Day 6 : That all with disabling handicaps may be blessed with forbearance.

Day 7 : That all doctors, nurses, and other caregivers may be well in body and spirit.

Day 8 : That our lawmakers will pass laws to ensure that proper, dignified medical care is available for all who are in need, especially the poor and the elderly.

Day 9 : That God might look with favor on my special intentions.

Fertility Disorders a Must Read!!!!

2008-05-15T21:20:00.000-04:00

Holy Mother Church in her wisdom guides us to follow NFP with such good reason. If you are someone that has yet to check out NFP fertility treatment, I beg you to read over this article. This may be just the thing that brings you to a place of understanding, especially if you have felt like you are in the dark and don't know why you're not getting pregnant. Some treatments may be as simple as clearing a long time infection. Please read this well written medical report, from Dr. Pilar Vigil P. Faculty of Biological Sciences Pontifical Catholic University of Chile.

http://www.billings-ovulation-method.org/omrrca/vigil/fertilityDisorders.pdf

If you have any questions about this, call your local NFP Practioner or NFP doctor. I believe a list can be found at your local Catholic Diocese or go to "One More Soul":

http://www.omsoul.com/nfp-only.php.

Please also find a listing of NFP Fertility Resources on the left side of this blog page under Catholic Fertility Resources, there are a number of sites for America and Europe. We pray that you find these helpful.

Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us.

2008-05-13T14:26:00.000-04:00

May 13

Our Lady of Fatima

Pray for US...

Hear our prayers, our

hurts, our frustrations

and give all

to Jesus Christ

Your Son.

http://www.pilgrimvirginstatue.com/

Catholic Infertility Support - This Blog is for YOU!!!!!

2008-05-11T16:32:00.000-04:00

~THIS BLOG IS FOR YOU~

(Sorry Anheuser-Bush)

Please let us know what you think:

GIVE US YOUR COMMENTS,

CRITIQUES AND

COMPLIMENTS!!!!!!

Email: hannahs.tears@gmail.com

With Love and Prayers,

Hannah's Tears

Once Again Diet and Fertility?

2008-05-07T19:45:00.000-04:00

Slow Age Related Infertility with Improved Digestion
By Lyn Vaccaro
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/554909/slow_age_related_infertility_with_improved.html

Here's another source that may help...

Digestive Enzymes - Why Everyone Should Take Them
By Joanna Ammons
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/109289/digestive_enzymes_why_everyone_should.html

Saints Anne & Joachim - Novena for Life

2008-05-07T18:40:00.003-04:00

This is such a beautiful novena, especially for those struggling with fertility. I highly recommend this novena for any Infertility Support Group... check it out online:

http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/marriage-and-family/

natural-family-planning/upload/nfp-sts-anne-joachim-novena.pdf

and start your novena today!

This prayer can be ordered from the:

Diocesan Development Program for NFP - Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Contact: 1-202-541-3240

Orders: 1-866-582-0943

Publication #0422.

Link has been fixed 10/6/11

2008-05-06T09:59:00.000-04:00

This picture was obtained with permission from www.michaeljournal.org

God the Father sent His only Son for the whole world, after His ascension into Heaven, Our Lord promised to send an advocate...this is the Holy Spirit...He is coming open your hearts to Him!

"Babies Deserve Better What You Need to Know If You're Struggling with Infertility"

2008-05-05T20:04:00.000-04:00

This story of infertility comes straight from the heart of a Catholic married couple that truly understands this suffering...

"Babies Deserve Better What You Need to Know If You're Struggling with Infertility"

By Jameson and Jennifer Taylor

http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/2006/0604fea3.asp

(We apologize that the site above was not properly listed... please try again to review the article above, especially if you were unable to in the past.. this has been undated as of 5/15/08)

"The Gift of Infertility"

2008-05-05T19:33:00.000-04:00

This article was written by a couple that truly understands the cross of infertility and the pain it brings, lets take a look at these articles together and find out what they actually mean by the gift of infertility.

"The Gift of Infertility", by Jameson and Jennifer Taylor

Part 1: http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-religion/1901155/posts

Part 2: http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-religion/1901156/posts

Part 3: http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-religion/1901157/posts

Part 4: http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-religion/1901158/posts

"Embracing the Cross of Infertility"

2008-05-05T08:24:00.000-04:00

"Embracing the Cross of Infertility"

Go to: http://www.hli.org/index.php/video-audio/35-audio/602-dr-marie-meaney-embracing-the-cross-of-infertility

If you have any problems with these sites, please let us know.. Hannahs.Tears@gmail.com

In that Desert Place, He awaits to refresh YOU!

2008-05-03T15:43:00.000-04:00

" The Prophet Elijah Receiving Bread and Water from an Angel"

(Elijah is considered the Father of the Carmelite order)

Elijah received bread and water from an angel; just think what you can receive from Our Lord just taking 30 minutes each day or even one hour with the Lord in complete silence, meditating on the love of Our Savior Jesus Christ. You will find yourself fed in the desert place of your very own soul by spending time with the true friend that you have always had. He waits for you in the quiet of your own home, He waits for you in the Blessed Sacrament at Church... the Blessed Trinity waits for you to call on *Him* at all times. What are You waiting for? He awaits to refresh YOU!

*correction made 8/25/09 the Blessed Trinity was referred to as (them) this was in error... The Blessed Trinity is one God in 3 Divine persons.

Check out Lectio Divina as you are praying for God's Holy Will in your life today http://www.fisheaters.com/lectiodivina.html

"Let nothing trouble you, let nothing make you afraid. All things pass away. God never changes. Patience obtains everything. God alone is enough." St. Teresa of Avila, 1515-1582

2008-05-02T22:07:00.000-04:00

Infertility

By Jeannie Hannemann, M.A., Director, Elizabeth Ministry International

http://www.foryourmarriage.org/interior_template.asp?id=20398728

Diet, Fertility, and Good Nutrition

2008-05-02T15:39:00.000-04:00

It has been my experience that we all get way too much sugar and bad fats in our daily diet routine. The Standard American Diet, notice the words spell out the acronym S.A.D... Who wants to be sad when Our Lord wants us to rejoice in Him. How can we rejoice in Him if we feel lousy?

So because I don't want you to feel lousy anymore, I thought that I would share this site with you. Here's a diet that's been working for me and some of my close friends...

Specific Carbohydrate Diet - Check this site out and see if it works for you. http://www.breakingtheviciouscycle.info/

check with your doctor if you have any serious medical problems before beginning a new diet

Diet, Insulin and Fertility?

2008-05-02T14:05:00.000-04:00

The Insulin-Resistance Diet : How to Turn Off Your Body's Fat-Making Machine (Paperback)by Cheryle R. Hart M.D. (Author), Mary Kay Grossman R.D. (Author) "Many people have come to realize over the past ten years that they must be doing something wrong when it comes to weight loss..." http://www.amazon.com/Insulin-Resistance-Diet-Bodys-Fat-Making-Machine/dp/0809224275/ref=pd_sim_b_title_5

Maybe you're having problems with insulin resistance. This might be the diet that gets you on track with your health? Ask your doctor if this is the diet for you and your fertility issues.

Diet, PCOS and Infertility

2008-05-02T13:46:00.000-04:00

The Natural Diet Solution for PCOS and Infertility (How to Manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Naturally) (Paperback)by Nancy Dunne (Author), Bill Slater (Author)

http://www.amazon.com/Solution-Infertility-Polycystic-Syndrome-Naturally/dp/B000NIF1EE

Some of the lady's on the catholic-fertility list have been mentioning this book, so we thought that this might be something some of you might be interested in also. Here's to healthy eating... I know it's hard but you can do it!!!

A Personal Story of Infertility

2008-05-02T11:06:00.000-04:00

Found Grace: A Personal Story of Infertility

Carrying the burden of infertility taught Dreena Tischler many things: that life is not easy, but also that suffering is a door, not a wall.The year I was 19, I learned that I was inoperably infertile.

The news barely fazed me at the time. I was young; medical technology was advancing rapidly and miracles were always possible. A few months before I turned 25, my marriage ended. My husband, the second of seven children, desperately wanted to be a father. In our tiny community, adoption was unheard of. Believing myself to be a failure, I ran from my home and my marriage and immersed myself in city life.

There were many things "right" in my life—I had a wonderful church, plenty of real friends, and a job I enjoyed. On Christmas Eve the sheriff showed up at my door to serve me divorce papers. The numbness I felt slowly melted into a deep depression—a dark night of the soul—that lasted for months. My suffering was compounded by my impending 25th birthday and the painful realization that my infertility was, in fact, permanent. I finally knew I would never experience the joy and pain of pregnancy and childbirth that I had been looking forward to for years.

The acceptance of reality brought me my first lesson on suffering: A major part of my suffering was caused by holding onto a myth that if I was a good person, my life would be easy. Life, I found, was not easy. I could not "live right" enough to shield myself from pain.

We live in a society which often trains us to believe that life should be easy. This myth is perpetuated through romance novels, movies, television, and an instant gratification mindset. Although my parents limited our television viewing time, I was nonetheless intimately acquainted with the perfect life portrayed in Leave it to Beaver and The Brady Bunch. I was also an avid reader of romantic fiction. Consequently, I grew up believing young women met their knight in shining armor, had a fabulous wedding, gave birth to several healthy bouncing babies, and then lived happily ever after. No wonder my new life as an infertile divorcee left me believing something was desperately wrong. Where was God? Why had He abandoned me?

I was fortunate to have friends with a stronger faith than mine. With their encouragement, I continued to attend church weekly, often leaving with teary eyes and stooped shoulders. Someone introduced me to the writings of Henri Nouwen, which penetrated my darkness as tiny pricks of insight. As I browsed through a Christian book center one day, I saw a set of tapes by Nouwen, The Spirituality of Waiting. Trusting my instincts, I bought the tapes, in which Nouwen recounts the Biblical stories of waiting and urges the listener to stand firm in faith. I understood the wisdom of his words but could not yet apply them to my life.

Then one sparkling spring Sunday, a transformation occurred. I sat—as was my custom—with a large group of single adults in the first row of the balcony. There was a baptism that week, a common occurrence in our large and young congregation. This baptism, however, stood out. I did not know the young couple or the tiny child, but as the water poured, I received a message. It didn’t come to me as a voice; instead, a knowing came over me that God had something special in mind for me with children. Startled, I glanced around at my friends. No one else seemed to have experienced an epiphany. The change in me, however, was apparent. The fog of depression lifted and hope shone again in my life. My friend Juana was the first to ask, "What happened to you? You suddenly seem so happy."

I wasn’t sure how to answer. I simply told her that I knew that something brighter was around the corner, and I was willing to wait. An insight came to me through a memory of a time living on a farm. I recalled coming home from work one evening ready to harvest some fresh produce from my garden. To my dismay, the garden was filled with sheep that had eaten every bit of green down to the earth. I called the dogs to chase the sheep back into the pasture, and the frightened sheep began racing along the fence line, completely missing the large opening through which they’d passed into the garden. It was only when they finally slowed down and realized they were safe that they were able to see the entrance that had been there all along.

I had received my second instruction about suffering: Suffering is a door, not a wall. Likewise, holding onto my vivid recollection of the suffering of the past kept me in pain and obscured my vision of the graces of the present. Like the sheep missing the opening, I had been racing around to find a way out of the agony, but I was completely missing the way through. How often this happens in our lives. We train ourselves to find the answer to our problems instead of waiting for God’s gifts to become more apparent.

It took nearly two years, but I finally got a glimpse of the "door." I was offered a job as an assistant in our church’s Ministry with Children. I had never considered ministry and didn’t think myself particularly gifted with children, but I recognized the prompting. I accepted the post and resigned my job as a law firm administrator.

My gifts with children quickly became apparent to me. I was frequently called to the nursery to comfort a crying infant or to the second floor to deal with an unruly second-grader. Through my work, I gradually felt my pain and sadness subside as I attained a sense of purpose in my life. I attended a course called "Focus on Children" during which a United Methodist Bishop, Leontine Kelly, asked a question that has guided my life ever since: "Who will be an advocate for children?"

Though I didn’t move or speak out loud, my heart responded resoundingly to the question: "I will!" I had the gift of children in my life — hundreds of them! I had a reason for being in the world and was making a difference. Within a couple of years, I became Director of Ministries with Children and worked harder than I ever had before. I thought this was the special gift I’d been promised. Yet, after four years in children’s ministries, I knew it was time to take a break and work on me. My work with children brought to light the many unresolved spiritual issues of my life. Now over 30 years old, my longings to parent had resurfaced. I resigned my position and took a secular job, which allowed me sufficient time and solitude to work on my own spirituality.

Finally I met Paul, my soul-mate and the husband of my dreams. Through the miraculous process of annulment — which some people consider only paperwork — God reached out again with healing. My conversion to Catholicism and the soul searching required to request an annulment were the vehicles through which I finally came to accept God’s forgiveness for my past. His hand had long been reaching out to me in reconciliation, but I had been unwilling to accept it. Annulment provided me that opportunity.

My marriage to Paul was tested from the start as I became very ill with endometriosis and had my first surgery just six weeks after the wedding. The eight months that followed were rough ones for me. I suffered terrible side effects from the drugs I was taking to alleviate the endometriosis, including bone loss, stiffness, memory loss, and crippling migraine headaches. Paul proved himself a patient and loving man. Around Thanksgiving, we both came face to face with my infertility. I was to undergo a hysterectomy that was medically necessary and spiritually troubling. There would be no miraculous pregnancies for me.

As a perpetual college student, I decided to try a positive approach to my infertility by writing a research paper on adoption. This project woke Paul and me up to an important truth: loss and grief are an inherent part of the adoption process. The birth parents grieve the loss of their child, the adoptive parents must work through the loss of their fertility and the dream of conception, and the adopted persons — at some point in their lives — must come to terms with the loss of their original family. I wasn’t sure about passing through this door through suffering; a part of me still wanted to find a way out.

My research in adoption led my husband and me to two decisions: first, that God’s plan for us was to form our family through adoption, and second, that we were to adopt children from the "hard to place program" which, in Texas, means adopting a child of African-American descent.

Within months of joining the agency we used, a birthmother whom I will refer to as Lee called us. We met her and immediately realized her profound love for the little boy she carried. She was a Caucasian woman, the daughter of an evangelical Protestant minister; the birthfather was black. Lee believed her church and community could never accept this biracial child or her unplanned pregnancy.

When the day arrived for her son’s birth, we were elated—and just a little nervous. We were permitted to hold and feed the precious boy for several hours on the day of his birth. After a sleepless night, the social worker brought him to our hotel where we would all remain for the next 24 hours until the paperwork could be signed. In Texas, by law, the birthmother cannot relinquish her parental rights until 48 hours after the child’s birth We had a blissful day cocooned in our room with the tiny fellow.

That evening around 11 p.m., the phone rang, and my stomach sank with dread. Sadly, my instincts were correct. The social worker told us it looked like Lee might change her mind and choose to parent, but we wouldn’t know until morning. We were devastated. Even in our grief, our hearts went out to Lee, since the social worker told us she hadn’t stopped crying since leaving the hospital. That night we were often tempted to lay the baby in his crib and not allow ourselves to feel the love we already had for him. Grace touched us, though, and we chose instead to hold him all night, assuring him not only of the love that we had for him but also of Lee’s love.

I was physically ill by the time Lee came with her mother and our social worker to retrieve him. Yet there was a glimpse of bright news: the baby’s grandmother told us that Lee had shared her story (at last!) with their congregation and they had pledged their full support. The first few days at home without the baby were very difficult for us both. We cried frequently and could barely stand to look at the empty bassinet in our bedroom. After a few weeks, we were able to put away the tiny clothes and bassinet until we were close to adopting again. During this time, we received prayers and all manner of support from our family, friends, and parish.

While almost incomprehensibly difficult, this period of suffering and grieving was an important part of the healing process and also an important part of understanding the suffering and pain that is so much a part of adoption. It woke us up to the incredible sacrifice that birth parents must make. One day a precious card arrived from Lee’s mother to thank us for some photos we’d sent. She mentioned what the baby had been not only to their family, but to their entire congregation. A single line provided all the assurance we needed: "We can’t imagine our lives without him."

Through grace, we learned another lesson: Sometimes the way through suffering is the realization that our suffering can bring gifts to others. In the midst of pain, it is so difficult to see God’s hand at work. As Christians, we are called to say "yes" to all God’s gifts—not only the ones that meet our expectations. Our experience with Lee and her son was a holy gift; we learned to find the treasure hidden within our loss and pain.

We had two more adoption attempts fall through, although none as dramatically as the first. We received our first child, Allison Clair, about four months after the first baby’s birth. Her birth family wanted only limited contact, so we were in some measure removed from their grieving process. We realized that from our first contact with Lee’s son, we lost all desire to create a child of our own flesh. Our primary desire was to parent and we had received that opportunity.

Through our love for this tiny angel baby, Paul and I both became more aware of God’s presence in our life and the incredible sacrifice God made in sacrificing His only son for our sake. We believe that our previous pain in some way better equipped us to love Allison and gave us greater empathy for the suffering of her birth family in choosing to make an adoption plan for her.

When Allison was 18 months old, we decided — with some trepidation — to re-enter the adoption process and try for another child. We prayed for an easier road this time while telling God we were still willing to go through whatever was necessary for this second child. We met (and fell in love with) a new birthmother, "Sharee." Our first meeting was a blessing because she was so like my husband in her talents, interests, temperament, and spirituality.

Sharee had been told she was carrying a boy and together the three of us chose a name for him that honored Paul’s grandfather and her uncle, both deceased. Of all the birthmothers we’d gotten to know, Sharee was the most open. With her, we truly witnessed the struggle of making an adoption plan and the difficulty of explaining to her family the decision she’d made. Although her choice was an agonizing one, she never wavered in her determination to follow through with the adoption. Allison was 21 months old when the baby was born. Paul and I were with Sharee through her labor, and I was able to be present in the delivery room as the baby was born. It was our second experience of supporting a birthmother in labor. I was amazed at the pain women are able to endure, and we were both sadly aware that for Sharee, the pain of labor would not even compare with the pain of separating from her baby. As I witnessed the miracle of childbirth, my thoughts ran to the Blessed Mother and how difficult it must have been to labor to bring forth a child who would be sacrificed for our sake.

As I held Sharee’s hand as the child was born, my stomach tumbled with an uneasy mixture of love, joy, and sorrow. I was distracted momentarily when we were told, to our astonishment, the child was a girl! We quickly decided to name her Mary Chanelle after a nun who had a profound influence on my life.

Paul, sick with a fever, returned home to care for Allison. I stayed near the hospital and spent time with Sharee and Chanelle. After a sleepless night in my hotel, I returned to Sharee’s room to see how she’d fared during the night. My heart sank as I saw the pain on her face. Sharee told me the nursery had brought the baby back to her soon after I’d gone to my room since she was crying a lot. The only way she could soothe her was to sleep with the baby in her arms.

My mind raced, wondering if she would be able to follow through with her adoption plan. I resolved to set my concerns aside and give Sharee my unconditional love and support. We left the hospital as planned, and the baby and I settled into a hotel for the night. My heart soared with gratitude each time I looked at the precious infant in my arms and then tumbled with grief as I thought of Sharee.

Unable to sleep, I spent the night praying that she would have some easing of her pain and would somehow know how much her sacrifice meant to our family. As morning dawned, I wrote her a long note including some of my favorite scriptures about suffering.

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. When you search for me, you will find me, if you seek me with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:11-13).

God was writing another lesson onto my heart: Love is a sacrifice. Sacrifice involves suffering. It seems obvious, yet it was so hard for me to hear. God calls us to love unconditionally. Perhaps it’s the unconditional part that invites the suffering. Sharee would have been a fit parent for her daughter, yet she looked at the broader picture of all a child needs to thrive and chose to place her in our arms. In loving her child, she chose to sacrifice her own and her family’s expectations to unconditional love. For our part, we sacrificed our cultural beliefs about the autonomy of parenting and embraced a life with children who are fully our children but also have other parents. We were charting new territory in this relationship and choosing a rockier path.

Chanelle is now nearing two years old. During her lifetime, we’ve developed a close and loving relationship with Sharee, which includes learning about and understanding her process of grieving for her child. Many times after a telephone conversation, I’ve found myself crying as I prayed for a lessening of her pain. There are many obstacles she’s had to overcome in her determination to provide the stability she wanted for her child. She has had difficult days such as the first time she heard Chanelle call me "Mama," receiving pictures of our family, instead of hers, celebrating the baby’s first birthday, and hearing me call Chanelle "my baby."

Through this relationship, I have learned much about suffering. I’ve seen that through the pain, hearts open. Sharee’s pain has caused her to seek God in a new way; it has deepened and matured her heart. Paul and I have ached, too, in seeing such depth of pain in someone we have grown to love like a sister. Our relationship leads us to another insight into the miracle of suffering. The door of suffering leads us closer to the heart of God and broadens our understanding of the gift of Jesus Christ. Christ suffered throughout His ministry on earth; He was willing to endure the pain of his last days on earth so that we could receive the gift of eternity at His feet. We suffer because we live; we have hearts, minds and wills. The humble beast does not suffer because it does not have the capacity to love; humans love, therefore we suffer. My willingness to acknowledge my feelings of suffering means I can also fully experience my feelings of love and gratitude. It’s a package deal.

I recognize that there is much I have yet to learn in my life about the relationship between grace, sacrifice, and suffering. However, in looking back I see that I have shifted in my basic approach to life. My desire is no longer to avoid suffering and live an easy life, but to enter willingly the open door of suffering in the understanding that it is a part of God’s refining process for me; it leads me closer to the pure heart of the Trinity and strengthens my journey. I hold fast the promise in Psalm 46:

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved (Psalm 46: 1-5) .

Reprinted with permission from Canticle Magazine.
All rights reserved.
Rosália TenórioCatholic.net
Manager E: Rosalia@Catholic.net

THE CATHOLIC CHURCHES TEACHING AND INFERTILITY

2008-04-04T12:32:00.000-04:00

Site Approval

2008-02-11T14:53:00.000-05:00

THIS SITE HAS BEEN PREAPPROVED BY ST. PATRICK CHURCH OF COLUMBUS, OHIO. THIS MINISTRY REMAINS FAITHFUL TO THE MAGISTERIUM OF THE HOLY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH HER LAWS AND TEACHINGS.

We do not support fertility treatments contrary to Church teaching. This ministry is for all those that may visit this site. Please feel free to write us regardless of where you live if you are in need of prayer we are here for you.

Mass offerings for the Apostolate of Hannah's Tears. Please send in your names if you would like to be placed on the altar during this Mass. Intentions include fertility, difficult pregnancy, sick infant, loss of a child and adoption prayer.

Donation offerings may be sent to:

The Apostolate of Hannah's Tears
c/o St. Patrick Church
280 N Grant Ave
Columbus, OH 43215

Hannah's Tears Ministry: Catholic Infertility Support

Hannah's Tears - New Home Page!

Please come visit our new home page...

NPT Over IVF

Patron Saints of Childless Couples and those that are Sterile

Ven. Mother Maria Luisa Josefa of the Most Blessed Sacrament

Patron - saints of Infertility

Prayer For the Beatification of Venerable Mother María Luisa Josefa of the Most Blessed Sacrament

We Can Learn So Much

Longing for a Child, God has all the Answers

Matthew 7:7-8"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

Don't stop seeking God's presence, you will be surprised just what is waiting for you.

Don't Miss Out!

NFP Introductory Sessions

Archdiocese of St. Louis, MO

If You Really do not Keep away from Type two diabetes Now, You'll certainly Hate Your self Later

"The passion of the whole body of Christ"

Church Documents

NFP RESOURCES

The Second Annual Pro-Life Symposium

Jesus loves

Mother Teresa's Secret Fire

The Cross of Infertility ~ Interview with Dr. Marie Meaney

Infertility Pamphlet

Infertility Article - Western Catholic Reporter

Unable to endorse this article due to the person being interviewed does not uphold Catholic teaching. We apologize for any inconvenience this has made for you seeking information.

New Hope For Infertility Parts I and II

Dr. Hildgers Interview Explaining NaPro...

The next S.H.E. Meeting ~ Infertility Support

Article found ~ "The Pain of Infertility"

Jane Williams shares her personal experience and feelings about infertility.

click below to read article

The pain of infertility

Catholic iPod - Fertility Care

Audio – Dr. Thomas Hilgers – YOUR FERTILITY CARE CONSULT

At a time of disappointment

Unless you become...

A Little Child

CONGREGATION FOR THE DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH

Infertility Novena

Patron Saint of Infertile Men

Embracing the Cross

Drug Treatment Developed to Prevent Miscarriages

Prayer to Honor the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague

Catholic Fertility Prayers

Prayer Petitions

Fertility Support Sites

Novena Prayer for Healing

Fertility Disorders a Must Read!!!!

Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us.

Catholic Infertility Support - This Blog is for YOU!!!!!

Once Again Diet and Fertility?

Saints Anne & Joachim - Novena for Life

"Babies Deserve Better What You Need to Know If You're Struggling with Infertility"

"The Gift of Infertility"

"Embracing the Cross of Infertility"

In that Desert Place, He awaits to refresh YOU!

Diet, Fertility, and Good Nutrition

Diet, Insulin and Fertility?

Diet, PCOS and Infertility

A Personal Story of Infertility

THE CATHOLIC CHURCHES TEACHING AND INFERTILITY

Site Approval

Matthew 7:7-8

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.