A friend recently contacted me about the beautiful novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe, led by the bishop of Arlington. In typical fashion, I began late and then forgot a day. But, I've since persisted and prayed, pondering what it is that God is calling us to as a married couple. Encouraged by Sarah Mackenzie's words, I am working hard to root out the superstition and legalism that can sometimes crop up when one prays a novena and focusing on making myself embrace the meditation and become open to the available grace.
Unexpectedly, on December 9, 2016, the Feast of Juan Diego, we received word that our adoption home study was approved.
Welcome to the Domestic Infant Adoption Program through Spirit of Faith Adoptions. You have completed the Home Study Assessment Process and Orientation. Your Home Study was approved as of December 9, 2016.
The approval wasn't unexpected, but the timing to fall on Juan Diego's feast day is a tremendous gift. A rose in winter, even, especially in the midst of the novena and our families love for this particular devotion.
Adoption is a long road of waiting, patience, and anticipation. And so we're entering into this second half of advent, especially as we reflect on Christ's coming with those characteristics at the front of our minds.
Veni Domine Iesu!
