Meet Jake and Maggie! Originally from the western suburbs of Chicago, they met while out with friends and a mutual desire to pass the time! Their conversation that evening led to a beautiful relationship, four sweet children, and a life full of sacrifice and joy. They share how their faith plays a critical role in the lives of their children as they encourage them to develop a deep relationship with Jesus and Mary.

What role does your faith play in your family life?

We have tangible reminders of our faith throughout the house, we read books about great religious leaders and bring Jesus up in conversation randomly throughout the day so the little ones get used to relating to Him as a nearby friend.

What religious traditions do you have as a family?

We have definitely been taking our time developing family traditions. Sometimes we feel more in survival mode than making special memories. My husband and I also come from different faith backgrounds which influences this area of our life. All that being said, we greatly value going to church as a family and discussing our highs/lows/closest moments to God throughout the day. We also make a point of sharing with our children the stories of the saints they are named after. 

Do you have a favorite family prayer?

Our favorite family prayer at the moment is simply coming together on the couch, cuddling close, and acknowledging the presence of God and simply talking to him from our hearts. When I asked my kids this question, my 3-year-old said it’s when we yell out, “Thank you God for…” and then everyone fills in the blank! As you can see, we focus heavily on gratitude at the moment. My husband and I care tremendously about the posture of our kids’ hearts. 

Share a moment when Mary has been a true Mother to you.

I have had a deep devotion to Mary since I was a little girl. I would go to her with any girl troubles that were weighing on me growing up, including school, friendships, puberty, dating advice, etc., and then ask her to talk to Jesus on my behalf. What can I say, there were just some things I wanted to talk to a woman about.

I did have my mom, too, but sometimes she was busy so I found great solace in Mary never being too busy. I love having her as a spiritual mama and guide, especially in reference to how she modeled such beautiful surrender to God’s will through joy and sorrow. I recently witnessed tremendous fruits for our family after completing the 54 day novena (a long-time goal of mine). 

How would you like your children to remember Mary in their day-to-day life?

Children thrive when they have a mom and dad they can count on. Our earthly parents will never be perfect but our Heavenly ones are. I want my kids to know that they will always have a spiritual mother they can go to at all times and that she can provide a particular kind of love, peace, and grace that I cannot. 

I don’t mean this in a sad way, it’s more that I want them to have a sense of the army of support around them through more than just their earthy friends and family, but through the awareness of the closeness of the angels and saints, especially the closeness of a Heavenly Mom and Dad that know just how to love them and provide for them the strength, wisdom, and courage needed every step of the way. 

What about your faith do you hope to impart on your children?

I want to impart so many things but in my heart for them right now is my own combination of Joshua 1:9 and Philippians 4:6… Do not be afraid or anxious about anything. You are strong, courageous, and never alone because Jesus is with you wherever you go. In prayer and in thanksgiving, share everything with Him, and you will receive a level of peace and joy that can never be taken away.