Catholic Single Mothers

Catholic Single Mothers

por Momentum
Temporada 4
Pick the Fruit in Every Season
In this episode, we sit down with MerryJill Milne, who shares her journey through marriage, separation, and becoming a single mother. With honesty and depth, she reflects on the pain of leaving her marriage, the grief that followed, and the profound healing she experienced through surrendering her life to Jesus. MerryJill speaks about the reality of walking through brokenness while learning to trust God, and how her faith sustained her as she navigated the challenges of raising her daughters and holding space for their pain. Through a powerful reflection, MerryJill invites us to “Pick the Fruit in Every Season” from our experiences, to recognize the grace, growth, and goodness that can emerge even from the most difficult seasons, while letting go of what is not meant to be carried forward. This is a message of hope, resilience, and identity, reminding us that even a small seed of hope is enough, and that God is always present, calling us by name and walking with us in every step of the journey. For more information about Momentum: www.momentummothers.org momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of Momentum: Catholic Single Mothers.
Poverty, Authenticity and Mercy
In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Kevin Darwent, a priest with the Companions of the Cross and pastor of St. Willibrord’s Parish, who shares his powerful personal journey of faith. Fr. Kevin opens up about a difficult season when he was asked to leave the seminary, and the deep spiritual journey that followed. Through this experience, he reflects on the movement from poverty to authenticity, and ultimately to an encounter with God’s mercy. This is a story of surrender, identity, and the transforming love of God. Thank you, Fr. Kevin, for your honest and faith-filled witness. Items of Note in This Episode St. Willibrord’s Parish A Catholic parish in Montreal where Fr. Kevin currently serves as pastor. https://stwillibrords.com/ Companions of the Cross A community of Catholic priests focused on evangelization and renewal in the Church. https://companionscross.org/ Ignatian Retreats A form of prayer and spiritual retreat rooted in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, helping individuals encounter God more deeply. For more information about Momentum: www.momentummothers.org momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of Momentum: Catholic Single Mothers.
The Importance of Community
In this episode, Jennifer shares her journey of coming to Canada, discovering she was pregnant, and navigating the challenges of finding out she was expecting. She speaks openly about the fears, uncertainties, and moments of grace that shaped her path. She also reflects on the importance of community, how connecting with other women, including Momentum, provided encouragement and understanding. Jennifer’s story is a beautiful reminder that no mother is meant to walk alone. For more information about Momentum and our programs for Catholic single mothers, please visit: www.momentummothers.org Or contact us at: momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of Momentum: Catholic Single Mothers.
A Testimony of Service and Giving
In this episode, we sit down with Kathleen and Eric Cook, parishioners of St. Ignatius Parish, who have volunteered with Momentum’s Annual Single Mothers Retreat at Dominus Vobiscum Retreat Centre since 2018. They share what it has been like to serve at the retreat over the years and the powerful impact they have witnessed as women encounter faith, community, and healing. They also reflect on how the ministry has touched their own hearts and deepened their understanding of love, service, and the Church. Thank you, Kathleen and Eric, for your faithful and generous witness. Items of Note in This Episode St. Ignatius Parish A Catholic parish community in Montreal where Kathleen and Eric are parishioners. https://www.stig.ca/ Dominus Vobiscum Retreat Centre (DV) A Catholic retreat centre in Quebec that hosts Momentum’s Annual Single Mothers Retreat. https://dominusvobiscum.ca/ For more information about Momentum: www.momentummothers.org momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com
A Daughter’s Message: Your Wellbeing Becomes Our Example
In this episode, we sit down with Cara Palanca, a teacher, singer, and dedicated volunteer who supports Momentum retreats through childcare and music. Cara is also the daughter of a single mother, and she shares openly about her experience growing up, offering a heartfelt perspective on what children notice, absorb, and emulate. Cara reflects on the importance of mothers caring for themselves, not out of selfishness, but out of love. She speaks tenderly about how children naturally emulate what they witness at home, and how a mother’s wellness, rest, and surrender to God can shape a child’s sense of peace and security. Items of Note in This Episode: Dominus Vobiscum Retreat Centre Cara talks about serving at Momentum retreats hosted at Dominus Vobiscum retreat centre. Website: https://dominusvobiscum.ca/ St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church (Montreal, QC) Cara volunteered and served at St. Ignatius of Loyola Parish in Montreal. Website: https://stig.ca/ For more information about Momentum and our programs for Catholic single mothers, please visit: www.momentummothers.org Or contact us at: momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of Momentum: Catholic Single Mothers.
Your Children Love You
In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Garrick, pastor of St. Willibrord’s Parish in Verdun, Montreal. Originally from Vancouver, he has served in several communities across Quebec and has accompanied Momentum mothers at multiple retreats. Fr. Garrick shares his story as the son of a single mother, speaking with honesty and gratitude about the challenges and graces and how it shaped his heart as a priest. He offers a powerful reminder of how deeply children love their mothers and how much strength they draw from their faith, perseverance, and presence. He also reflects on the Gospel of the Woman Caught in Adultery from John 8, highlighting Jesus’ mercy, His refusal to condemn, and His desire to restore dignity and hope. Thank you, Fr. Garrick, for your witness, your pastoral heart, and your openness in sharing your story. Items of Note in This Episode St. Willibrord’s Parish (Verdun, Montreal) Fr. Garrick currently serves as pastor at this vibrant and welcoming parish community. Website: https://www.stwill.ca/ The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8) Fr. Garrick reflects on this passage, highlighting Jesus’ mercy, His protection of the vulnerable, and His desire to restore hope and dignity in every heart. For more information about Momentum and our programs for Catholic single mothers, please visit: www.momentummothers.org Or contact us at: momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of Momentum: Catholic Single Mothers.
The Cavalry is Coming!
In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Eugene O’Donnell, a priest in the Diocese of Dallas who serves as a parochial vicar at Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church in Irving, Texas. Before entering the priesthood, Fr. Eugene was a single father, a journey that has deeply shaped his understanding of God’s mercy and pastoral care. Fr. Eugene has been a strong supporter of the Momentum Irving Chapter, encouraging and walking alongside the women who lead and participate in it. He shares about his experiences raising his daughters, how the Lord used that time to draw him closer, and how it continues to inform his ministry today. Fr. Eugene also reflects on the beauty he has witnessed in the faith journeys of single mothers and the profound impact ministries like Momentum can have on parish life—helping to build stronger, more compassionate communities centered on Christ. He reminds us that when the Church embraces and supports families in all their circumstances, it becomes a true reflection of God’s mercy and love. Thank you, Fr. Eugene, for your openness, faith, and for the support you offer to single parents and families through your ministry. Items of Note in This Episode Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church (Irving, TX) Fr. Eugene serves as a parochial vicar and helped support the launch of the Momentum Irving Chapter at his parish. Visit the parish website: https://holyfamilychurch.net/ Momentum Irving Chapter The community at Holy Family is growing! To learn more or get involved, contact the chapter directly at: irvingchapter@momentummothers.org Rose Sweet’s Ministry for Divorced Catholics Fr. Eugene references Rose Sweet’s work in accompanying divorced Catholics with mercy and truth, helping them find healing through the Church’s pastoral care. Learn more: https://rosesweet.com For more information about Momentum and our programs for Catholic single mothers, please visit: www.momentummothers.org Or contact us at: momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of Momentum: Catholic Single Mothers.
Temporada 3
God’s Promises for Your Life
In this episode, we sit down with Kelly Lugo, a single mother and the author of The Single Parent’s Devotional: 101 Reminders of God’s Purpose and Promises for Your Life. Kelly opens up about her personal journey through single motherhood. Through her story, she reminds us that Scripture is alive and full of encouragement for every season of life. Her devotional book offers reflections specifically for single parents, rooted in God’s unwavering love and faithfulness. Items of Note in This Episode: Kelly's Book: The Single Parent’s Devotional: 101 Reminders of God’s Purpose and Promises for Your Life – A collection of 101 Scripture-based devotionals offering spiritual encouragement and reminders of God’s promises for single parents. James 1:2–3 – “Consider it pure joy... whenever you face trials,” a foundational passage that shaped Kelly’s understanding of perseverance and spiritual growth. 2 Corinthians 12:7–10 – Paul’s reflection on God’s strength made perfect in weakness—a truth Kelly experienced firsthand in her own limitations as a mother. Romans 5:3–5 – A powerful reminder that “suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” John 5:1–15 – The story of the man at the pool of Bethesda, which resonated deeply with Kelly as she waited on the Lord for healing and restoration. The Chosen – Kelly shares how The Chosen helped her experience Jesus’ mercy more intimately. For more information about Momentum and our services, please visit: www.momentummothers.org Or contact us at: momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of Momentum: Catholic Single Mothers.
Starting a Momentum Chapter
In this episode "Starting a Momentum Chapter", we speak with JoAnn Lacheny, a single mother of two daughters and a chemical engineer who launched the first Momentum chapter in the United States, located in The Woodlands, Texas. With over 15 years of leadership experience in the chemical industry and a deep passion for her Catholic faith, JoAnn shares how she stepped into ministry to serve other single mothers in her parish community. As Chapter Leader at St. Anthony of Padua, JoAnn facilitates Momentum gatherings that offer spiritual growth, healing, and a strong sense of community for Catholic single moms. Now stepping into the role of Regional Director, she will be supporting new chapter leaders in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and helping to grow the mission of Momentum across Texas. Items of Note in This Episode: Walking with Moms in Need: A nationwide, parish-based initiative by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops that equips Catholic communities to support and accompany pregnant and parenting women in need through friendship and access to local resources. Website: www.walkingwithmoms.com St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church (The Woodlands, TX): A Roman Catholic parish in The Woodlands, Texas, dedicated to discipleship, community, and service. It serves as the home of the first Momentum chapter in the U.S. Website: www.ap.church Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston: One of the largest and most diverse Catholic archdioceses in the United States, serving over 1.7 million Catholics across southeastern Texas. Website: www.archgh.org For more information about Momentum and our services, please visit: www.momentummothers.org or contact momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast do not necessarily represent those of Momentum: Catholic Single Mothers.
The Woman at the Well and our Nuptial Longing
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Daniel Cere, a scholar in religious studies and the philosophy of love and marriage. Dr. Cere brings deep insight into the biblical theme of nuptial longing, exploring how Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well reveals our innate desire for communion, love, and fulfillment. Together, we discuss how this passage speaks to single moms, pointing us toward Christ as the ultimate Bridegroom. Items of Note in This Episode: John 4:1-42 – The passage where Jesus encounters the Samaritan woman at the well, offering her "living water" and inviting her into a relationship that fulfills her deepest longings. Dominus Vobiscum Retreat Centre: Located in Saint-Gabriel-de-Brandon, Quebec, the Dominus Vobiscum Retreat Centre is a place of peace and renewal, offering retreats that help families grow in prayer and deepen their faith. To learn more about Dominus Vobiscum, visit www.dominusvobiscum.ca. Amy Simple McPherson: Amy Simple McPherson (1890-1944) was a pioneering Pentecostal evangelist and founder of the Foursquare Church. She became famous for her work in radio evangelism, large tent revivals, and for being one of the first women to lead a major religious organization in the United States. Her life and ministry had a profound impact on the Pentecostal movement, and her story speaks to the transformative power of faith. For more information about Momentum and our services, please visit: www.momentummothers.org or contact momentumcatholicsinglemothers@gmail.com. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast do not necessarily represent those of Momentum: Catholic Single Mothers.
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