Groaning in Labor, Growing in Hope Scripture Reflections for the Hard Days of Early Motherhood

I was barely through the introduction and I just kept thinking, I love her voice! Kimmet writes in a deeply authentic and vulnerable way that somehow manages to be simultaneously conversational and not overwhelming. In addition, her content is both scripturally focused and theologically sound. It will definitely be my go-to gift for ‘newborn moms.’

Jessica Mannen Kimmet has written a beautiful book, drawn from her own experience of the difficult days of early motherhood explored through the lens of her deep faith. Her openness about her struggle with postpartum depression, combined with her perceptive and poignant reflections on Scripture, provide a sensitive, compassionate and much-needed guide to women everywhere who may feel overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood. Groaning in Labor, Growing in Hope is a gift to the Church and I recommend it highly.

Jessica lovingly invites moms into a vulnerable conversation that we often don’t have the chance to enter, speaking about the unique difficulties moms face when they encounter postpartum depression. I wish I had this book following the birth of my first child; I know I wouldn’t have felt so utterly alone, would have sought more professional help sooner, and would have incorporated the creative ways to pray that Jessica included into my nonexistent prayer life during those foggy months. I pray this resource sits on parish vestibule bookshelves, is passed around at moms’ groups, and is recommended by mental health professionals because the wisdom and hope it contains will most certainly touch the minds and hearts of countless moms who are courageously striving towards living out their vocation as mother.

Groaning in Labor, Growing in Hope is a beautifully honest reflection on those early days of motherhood. While not shying away from the very brutal moments of challenge, the book extends a vision of hope that any parent would find solace in. Jessica Mannen Kimmet's prose unfolds her own conflicting memories of her maternal journey with love and candor. In addition to thoughtful scriptural reflections; the very practical invitations to prayer, suggestions of patron saints and even the short chapter length extend a hand out of spiritual darkness. I would recommend this book to any new mother, knowing it would speak to her heart.

Jessica Mannen Kimmet speaks into the experience of postpartum depression and mental illness with gentleness and courage. Inviting readers to encounter through Scripture the loving presence of God, her reflections penetrate the isolation and shame that accompany so many women’s experiences of motherhood. In a spirit of friendship, she encourages readers' faith in the loving presence of God who draws near to us, especially in those seasons when we feel most alone and despairing.

Groaning in Labor is a powerful and important book. I am grateful to Jessica Mannen Kimmet for the humor, humanity, and genuine helpfulness found on every page. In describing the contours of these dark postpartum seasons from her own experience, Kimmet also shows what it takes to emerge from them, and in so doing, offers a true hand outstretched to anyone still in the thick of it.