Illuminating Love: A Reflection with the Sisters of Life 

In April 2025, the Archdiocese of Atlanta’s Respect Life ministry hosted a morning of reflection with the Sisters of Life, an occasion that beautifully illuminated the themes of motherhood and sisterhood.

This event was primarily geared toward pro-life leaders, including Walking with Moms in Need ministry leaders, Pregnancy Aid Clinic staff, and other dedicated advocates. They welcomed Sister Ann Immaculée and Sister Catherine Joy from Denver, who have been with the Sisters of Life for 10 years, and Sister Gemma Grace from New York, who has been with the Sisters of Life for 11 years.  

The morning commenced with a heartfelt introduction from Bishop Bernard “Ned” Shlesinger, setting the stage for an event grounded in the Sisters’ main work, which, as Sister Immaculée shared, is prayer.

Prayer is the deep spiritual wellspring that makes all their missions possible, including their profound ministry at the Holy Respite home in Manhattan, where they live alongside mothers in need. 

Sister Immaculée painted a vivid picture of their daily life with expecting mothers: sharing meals, offering a consistent “gaze of love,” and fostering a sisterhood with the women who come to their door. Her powerful message at the event – that you are inherently good, that mercy always awaits, and that God is ever-present – speaks directly to the beauty and sanctity of life with its inherent joys and challenges. She shared a beautiful sentiment: “a woman’s soul is a place where others unfold,” a testament to both the nurturing spirit of mothers and the supportive embrace of sisterhood. 

Remarkably, Sister Immaculée noted that many women who live with them are drawn into the Catholic Church. Those in attendance could likely all see why – the Sisters clearly bore witness to Christ’s love and moved many to tears as they shared the powerful stories of lives changed and souls saved. 

With over 300 babies welcomed through their home, the Sisters of Life embody a ministry of love, nurture, and friendship that extends far beyond immediate needs. It reaches women on a soul-level and brings them back year after year. Their annual Mother’s Day gathering, where they welcome back mothers and their children, allows the Sisters to witness the growth of the families they have served. Not only is it a celebration of life and motherhood, a vision all those in attendance work tirelessly to uphold, but it also celebrates the power and longevity of sisterhood. 

We’re grateful for the peace and joy shared by the Sisters of Life on their visit. We pray for the growth of their ministry, especially to the Georgia area, as they continue to nurture women and show Christ’s love to all those they come across. 

The Sisters are very active online and in mission. Here are some ways to learn more or stay up to date with the Sisters of Life: 

• Listen to their Let Love Podcast 

• Pray with them at a Source Holy Hour near you (the Cathedral of Christ the King 20/30 Somethings group was blessed to have them at their April Pack the Cathedral event, a Holy Hour for young adults) 

• Sign up for their IMPRINT magazine 

• Watch their video series, INTO LIFE: Love Changes Everything 

• Listen to original music on their YouTube Channel 

• Visit their website 

To learn about the impact of Walking with Moms in Need in the Archdiocese of Atlanta, read Courtney’s transformational story.